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://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-lee-baldwin-warren-respond-to-fda-policy-change-to-blood-donor,"Quigley, Lee, Baldwin, Warren Respond to FDA Policy Change to Blood Donor Deferral Policy for MSM",2015-12-22,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05), Vice-Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, and Barbara Lee (CA-13) and U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement regarding the Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) policy change of the blood donor deferral policy for men who have sex with men (MSM) from lifetime ban to one-year deferral: This past year, we saw tremendous progress for the LGBT community with the legalization of same sex marriage nationwide. Unfortunately, today's official policy change by the FDA on blood donations from men who have sex with men (MSM) from a lifetime ban to one-year deferral does not keep up with that same progress, said. Rep. Quigley. A time-based deferral focusing solely on men who have sex with men is still discriminatory and fails to exclude donors based on actual risk factors. However, I remain encouraged by the ongoing conversation to change this outdated policy. As the leader of the bipartisan, bicameral effort to reverse the FDAs discriminatory policy, I will continue to fight for a deferral policy based on behavioral risks, commensurate with the rest of the population and based on sound science, bringing equality for the LGBT community while still protecting the U.S. blood supply. I am encouraged that the FDA swiftly finalized this guidance to move forward and revise the discriminatory lifetime ban on blood donations. However, this is just the first step toward ending an outdated policy that is medically and scientifically unwarranted, said Senator Baldwin.This revision doesnt go far enough and I expect the FDA to maintain its commitment to work with stakeholders to develop better blood donor policies based on science. I will continue to push the Administration to move forward to achieve our ultimate goal of blood donation policies that are based on individual risk factors, that dont unfairly single out one group of individuals, and that allow all healthy Americans to donate. The FDAs long-overdue decision to overturn the lifetime ban on blood donations from men who have sex with men (MSM) is an important step forward, but a one-year deferral policy for all MSM remains discriminatory, said Senator Warren. The FDA says it will continue to reevaluate its policy, and the agency needs to commit to developing a risk-based framework for all blood donors that is based on current science. I will continue to press the agency to move in this direction in order to improve the safety and robustness of the blood supply. I applaud todays decision from the Food and Drug Administration to lift the discriminatory lifetime blood donation ban for members of the MSM community. However, the policy of one year deferral still maintains the long outdated policies concerning blood donations from the MSM community without scientific justification, said Rep. Lee. Blood and blood products are critical to the treatment of many medical conditions and blood supplies are chronically low, especially around the holidays. Our blood donation policies should be based on science, not fear. I have called and will continue to call for blood donation policies that are based on the best possible science, data and technical capacity to ensure public health. The previous lifetime ban on MSM donating blood was put in place during the rise of the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, but is no longer scientifically justified with current blood screening technology. In 2010, the HHS Advisory Committee on Blood & Tissue Safety & Availability (ACBTSA) found the ban to be suboptimal and asked for re-evaluation of this policy. In response to a letter from legislators in 2013, HHS indicated that the Department will finish deliberations on a policy change to the blood ban by the end of 2014. In 2013, the American Medical Association (AMA) passed a resolution opposing the current lifetime ban as discriminatory and not based on sound science. Instead, the AMA supports new donation deferral policies that are based on an individuals level of risk. The blood banking community, including the American Red Cross and Americas Blood Centers, has also long-supported a change in policy. Reps. Quigley and Lee and Senators Warren and Baldwin have been bicameral leaders in the fight to change this outdated and discriminatory policy. This summer, along with 79 of their congressional colleagues, the members sent a letter to the FDA requesting that the FDA implement the one year deferral policy ""in a way that ensures that this is only a first step toward implementing a risk-based blood donation policy for MSM,"" and requests that the agency consider amending the draft guidance document to clarify the agency's policy regarding donations from transgender individuals, to clearly delink the establishment of the Transfusion Transmissible Infections Monitoring System from the change in the MSM blood donation policy, and to take action to reform and correct deficiencies in the Uniform Donor History Questionnaire.Last year in a letter to HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell, the members, along with 75 of their colleagues, asked for additional information regarding the timeline for reversing the lifetime deferral policy, actions being taken to work towards a risk-based deferral policy, and plans for implementing the long-overdue blood safety surveillance system. Previously, they urged HHS Secretary Burwell to reevaluate the current discriminatory, inconsistent blood, organ and tissue donation policies for MSM. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=2876,Reps. Lipinski and King Secure Tax Benefit for Commuters Using Public Transportation,2015-12-21,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reps. Dan Lipinski (IL-3) and Peter Kings (NY-2) legislation that increases and permanently extends a tax benefit that helps people who use public transit has been signed into law as part of a larger tax package. This benefit helps more people use public transportation, eases congestion on the roads, supports the economy, and increases quality of life. The commuter tax benefit is essential to getting Americans to and from work each day, said Congressman Lipinski. Unfortunately, the benefit has not enjoyed permanent status and was reduced in 2014 from $235 to $130. Rep. Peter King and I have been pushing the Ways & Means committee all year to restore this benefit and make it permanent. Our most recent request was heeded and the benefit has been raised to provide parity with the parking benefit. With 2.7 million workers using the transit benefit to travel between home and work, Lipinski and King applaud Congress for taking action to ensure that riders of public transportation are provided with the same benefits as other commuters. The benefit encourages public transportation ridership, which helps get cars off the road, reduces overall emissions, and eliminates lost time and delays.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=2874,Mount Greenwood Post Office Renamed in Honor of Fallen Chicago Firefighter Captain Herbie Johnson,2015-12-20,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) was joined this afternoon by the family of Captain Herbie Johnson, Chicago 19thWard Alderman Matt OShea, and representatives from the Chicago Fire Department and U.S. Postal Service to officially rename Chicagos Mount Greenwood Post Office the Captain Herbert Johnson Memorial Post Office Building. The 32-year veteran of the Chicago Fire Department and resident of Chicagos Morgan Park community died on November 2, 2012, at the age of 54, while battling flames in the attic of a two-story home in Chicagos Englewood neighborhood. The name change was made possible through a bill authored by Lipinski. Herbie Johnson served heroically and selflessly, Rep. Lipinski said. Naming a postal facility honoring Captain Johnson is not just a tribute to him and his family, but to all first responders who bravely put their lives on the line every day, often for people they dont even know. I am proud and honored to have worked on this lasting tribute to someone who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting others from harm. An outgoing, caring, and dedicated public servant, Herbie Johnson was and is a hero. Captain Johnson learned public service from his family. Three of his brothers are Chicago police officers, a sister is a retired Chicago police officer, and another brother is a Chicago firefighter. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Susan; two sons, Thomas and Michael; and daughter, Laurie. Over the years, Johnson served in almost every Chicago neighborhood as a firefighter. He taught over one thousand recruits as an instructor at the Robert J. Quinn Fire Academy. After the terrorist attacks on 9-11, he volunteered with the rescue efforts in New York City. In 2007, he received the states highest award for firefighters, the Illinois Medal of Honor, for rescuing several children from a burning apartment. Johnson was well liked throughout communities on Chicagos Southwest Side. Almost every year he drove the fire truck down Western Avenue for the South Side Irish St. Patricks Day Parade. He also was known to cook for various charity events and offer his time at a camp for young burn victims. Renaming this post office ensures that Captain Herbie Johnson, his family, and the sacrifices of all first responders will always be remembered and appreciated, and will hopefully serve as a powerful source of inspiration in the community, Lipinski stated.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-votes-for-government-funding-package-that-will-grow-economy,"Foster Votes For Government Funding Package That Will Grow Economy, Invest in Education, Medicine, and Scientific R&D",2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) voted for the Omnibus Appropriations bill to fund the government through fiscal year 2016. While I am disappointed that House Republicans once again took our government to the brink, Im pleased that we were finally able to reach a reasonable, bipartisan agreement and avoid a government shutdown, said Foster. This bill includes increases in funding for several important priorities, including education, infrastructure, and medical research. I am especially pleased that this includes increased funding for scientific research and development. I would like to congratulate my colleagues negotiating the Omnibus for successfully defending the President's request for increased science funding rather than heeding Republican proposals for continued cuts to education and science, Foster added. However, the news isnt all good. The Tax Extenders bill passed by the House yesterday, a grab-bag of tax reductions without offsetting revenue, pushes trillions of dollars of new debt onto future generations and could require much deeper cuts in future years that will ultimately reduce and endanger research and education funding. Funding highlights from the bill include: Investing in Scientific Research and Development: Investing in scientific R&D is essential to maintaining our role as a world-leader in innovation. The bill includes funding for research at Argonne National lab, including: $1.8 billion in funding for the Office of Sciences Basic Energy Science account, $24.1 million for the Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage, $20 million for Advanced Photon Source, and $621 million in funding for the Office of Sciences Advanced Scientific Computing Research account. The bill also supports research being conducted at Fermilab, including: $795 million in funding for the Office of Sciences High Energy Physics account, $26 million in funding for the Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment, and $40 million in funding for the Muon to Electron Experiment. Overall Education: The bill restores the $2.5 billion cut in education that the GOP had proposed and also makes critical additional investments of $1.4 billion above 2015, in such areas as Title I that serves 24 million at-risk students. Early Learning: Investing in Head Start produces results and this bill invests nearly $400 million more than the House GOP bill and nearly $600 million more than 2015 in this vital initiative. The bill also provides $250 million for Preschool Development Grants, assisting 18 states across the country. Medical Research: Medical research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been underfunded for the last several years. This bill provides $32.1 billion for NIH, thats $900 million more than the House GOP bill and $2 billion more than 2015 for this life-saving research. Substance Abuse: More resources are needed to combat the growing substance abuse problems in our communities. The bill includes $3.8 billion for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Agency (SAMHSA), which is $160 million more than 2015. Infrastructure: The crucial TIGER grants are being used across the country to repair infrastructure and contribute to economic growth. The House GOP bill had slashed TIGER grants by 80 percent, killing jobs, but this bill restores the funding to the 2015 level of $500 million. Law Enforcement: The bill provides $80 million for the Community Policing Initiative, including $22.5 million for body-worn cameras.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-today%E2%80%99s-omnibus-vote,Rep. Gutirrez on Puerto Rico and the Omnibus in English and Spanish,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Gutirrez on Puerto Rico andthe Omnibus in English and Spanish Rep. Gutirrez Sobre Puerto Rico yEl Presupuesto mnibus en Ingls y Espaol [ENGLISH BELOW] Washington, DC El viernes, el Congresista Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) habl con el Presidente de la Cmara de Representantes Paul Ryan (R-WI) y discutieron disposiciones para ayudar al pueblo de Puerto Rico a enfrentar la crisis financiera de la isla, tanto en el corto como a largo plazo. La siguiente es una declaracin del Representante Luis V. Gutirrez: Tuve una conversacin con el Presidente Ryan esta maana y me reiter que l se compromete a trabajar en un marco legislativo amplio de accin en el Ao Nuevo en el que los Republicanos tomarn todas las mejores ideas de Puerto Rico y considerarn de manera honesta y justa formas para reestructurar la deuda de Puerto Rico. Doy las gracias al Presidente de la Cmara por su atencin al pueblo de Puerto Rico y le deseo una Feliz Navidad con su familia. Sin embargo, no pude votar por el presupuesto general que fue considerado hoy, ya que no garantiz que los maestros estarn en las escuelas para los nios, que la polica estar en las calles protegiendo los barrios, y que los doctores y enfermeras estarn all para ayudar al pueblo de Puerto Rico. A pesar de las buenas intenciones expresadas por accin el prximo ao vot en contra del mnibus hoy y estoy seguro de que otros comprometidos con el pueblo de Puerto Rico hicieron lo mismo. El pueblo de Puerto Rico necesita gente que luche por ellos. Este voto es un momento revelador acerca quin est con ellos y quin no. Rep. Gutirrez representa al Cuarto Distrito de Illinois, es miembro del Comit Permanente Selecto de la Cmara sobre Inteligencia, es miembro del Comit Judicial y el Subcomit de Inmigracin y Seguridad Fronteriza, y el Subcomit de Crimen, Terrorismo, Seguridad Interna e Investigaciones. # # # Washington, DC On Friday, Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) spoke with Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) and they discussed provisions to help the people of Puerto Rico cope with the Islands financial crisis both in the short- and long-run. The following is a statement by Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez: I had a conversation with Speaker Ryan this morning and he reiterated to me that he is committed to working on a comprehensive legislative framework for action in the New Year in which Republicans will take all the best ideas of Puerto Rico and consider in an honest and fair manner ways to restructure Puerto Ricos debt. I thank the Speaker for his attention to the people of Puerto Rico and wish him a Merry Christmas with his family. However, I did not vote for the omnibus budget today because it does not guarantee teachers will be in schools for the children, police will be on the streets protecting neighborhoods, and doctors and nurses will be there to help the people of Puerto Rico. Despite the good intentions expressed for action next year I will vote against the omnibus today and I expect others committed to the people of Puerto Rico will have done the same. The people of Puerto Rico need people to stand up for them. This vote is a telling moment about who stands with them and who does not. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-today%E2%80%99s-omnibus-vote-0,Rep. Gutirrez on Todays Omnibus Vote,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC On Friday, Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) voted against passage of the omnibus government funding bill for 2016 saying it fell short of his expectations on a number of different fronts. He gave five specific reasons for his vote against the package. The following is a statement by Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez: I voted against the omnibus because the ban on crude oil exports should not have been lifted and only increases our reliance on fossil fuels. I believe in science and facts, so I take global warming seriously and think both parties in the U.S. Congress should as well. Despite intentions to enact policies to restructure Puerto Ricos debt next year, I voted against the omnibus because it does not guarantee schools, police, and hospitals will function for the U.S. citizens of Puerto Rico tomorrow and next week. It is a crisis that should have been addressed now, not next year. For 17 years we have prohibited research into gun violence, a self-defeating masquerade enforced by the gun lobby to keep our national head in the sand about the toll that guns take on society every year. It should have been stripped from this bill and was not. While I support the goal of sharing information between the private sector and the U.S. government to advance our national security goals, the cyber security act incorporated into the omnibus will fail to adequately provide safeguards to protect Americans private information and will lead to surveillance and searches without warrants. The H-2B visa provisions in the omnibus are piecemeal immigration changes that should not be legislated through the back door of an appropriations bill. Any immigration amendments should be debated in regular order with the rights of U.S. workers and the rights of immigrant workers considered simultaneously and given at least as much consideration as the desires of U.S. employers and this measure falls short. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-in-support-of-fiscal-year-2016-omnibus-appropriations,Quigley Statement in Support of Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Act and Tax Extenders,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement in support of the Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Act: I am proud to vote for the fiscal year 2016 omnibus, which provides much needed federal funding for my constituents in the Fifth District in the areas of transportation infrastructure, law enforcement and homeland security, environment, health and research, and much more. The bill contained a number of big wins including $50 million available through Core Capacity grants for the Chicago Transit Authoritys (CTA) modernization of the Red and Purple lines, $500 million available through Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants for a variety of infrastructure projects in the Chicago area, and $187 million available through Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants for local communities to increase police officer hiring. By working together in a bipartisan way, Congress has averted a government shutdown, prevented the inclusion of numerous partisan policy riders, and avoided billions of dollars in harmful cuts in government services. Yesterday, I was proud to support the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act, which makes permanent a number of vital tax credits and deductions, such as the research and development tax credit and the expanded child tax credit. These important tax provisions will put more money into the pockets of hard working, middle-class families and small businesses. Instead of having to worry each year if Congress will extend critical tax measures they have come to rely on, Americans will now have the clarity and certainty they need to plan for the future. For businesses, that means knowing they will have the capital to hire new workers and expand their operations. For families and individuals, that means knowing that they will have enough saved up to put their children through college or purchase a new home. Im pleased Congress was able to come together to pass these two crucial bills for the American people. Priority investments in the Fiscal Year 2016 Appropriations Act include the following: Renewable Energy:Provides a major boost to renewable energy by extending the wind Production Tax Credit for five years (through 2019), and extending the solar Investment Tax Credit for five years (through 2021), while phasing both credits down somewhat over time.Extending the solar tax credit is estimated to create 61,000 jobs in 2017 alone. It is also estimated that the wind industry will grow to over 100,000 jobs over four years with the renewed wind tax credit. Energy Efficiency and Clean Energy R&D:Provides an 8 percent increase over 2015 for R&D activities in the pursuit of new clean energy and energy efficiency technologies. Overall Education: The bill restores the $2.5 billion cut in education that the GOP had proposed and also makes critical additional investments of $1.4 billion above 2015, in such areas as Title I that serves 24 million at-risk students. Early Learning: Investing in Head Start produces results and this bill invests nearly $400 million more than the House GOP bill and nearly $600 million more than 2015 in this vital initiative.The bill also provides $250 million for Preschool Development Grants, assisting 18 states across the country. Medical Research:Medical research at NIH has been underfunded for the last several years.This bill provides $900 million more than the House GOP bill and $2 billion more than 2015 for this life-saving research. Infrastructure:The popular TIGER grants are being used across the country to repair infrastructure and contribute to economic growth. The House GOP bill had slashed TIGER grants by 80 percent, killing jobs, but this bill restores the funding to the 2015 level of $500 million. Law Enforcement: The bill provides $187 million for COPS hiring grants, $7 million above the 2015 level and $187 million above the House GOP bill, which had eliminated the hiring grants.The bill also provides $80 million for the Community Policing Initiative, including $22.5 million for body-worn cameras and $15 million for Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation grants, an increase over the House bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-applauds-u-of-c-level-1-trauma-center-announcement,Rush Applauds U of C Level 1 Trauma Center Announcement,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) released the following statement after the University of Chicago announced that it would add a Level 1 adult trauma care to its Hyde Park campus: I applaud University of Chicago Medical Center President Sharon O'Keefe, who has worked with me and kept me abreast of this important breakthrough for the residents of the south side of Chicago. This has been an important issue for me, in part because of the death of my son, Huey who had to be transported to Christ Hospital in Oak Lawn, although he was shot a half block from a southeast side Chicago hospital in 1999. Unfortunately, over 45 million Americans reside in Trauma Deserts and lack access to major trauma centers within the golden hour post injury when chances of survival are greatest (American Journal of Public Health Trauma Deserts). I am pleased to know that is now changing for my constituents in the 1st Congressional District. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-statement-on-hr-2029-consolidated-appropriations-act-2016,"Rush Statement on H.R. 2029 -- Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016",2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) joined 315 other Members of the House of Representatives in passing the omnibus bill that will fund the federal government until September 30, 2016. In October, Congress enacted a two-year budget deal that increased spending limits by $88 billion; a significant step away from the draconian cuts enacted by the Sequestration Act of 2014. This omnibus bill brings to fruition these increased spending limits that will impact the entire federal government. Key among these increases for the nation and the citizens of the 1st Congressional District are: Food Safety/Nutrition Programs $2.73 billion for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is $132 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $6.35 billion for Special Supplemental Nutrition for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which is fully consistent with the current estimate of need. The Omnibus does not include proposed language preempting state laws on the labeling of genetically modified foods. Public Safety/Criminal Justice Programs $480 million for Violence Against Women Prevention and Prosecution programs which is $50 million more than the FY2015 level when adjusted for the inclusion of trafficking grants in this heading. $270.2 million for Juvenile Justice, which is $18.7 million more than the FY2015 level. Defense Spending $125 million for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Psychological Health research and $282 million for cancer research, $1.5 million more than FY2015. 1.3% pay raise for military personnel. $25 million for STARBASE, a STEM education program for fifth graders, the same as FY2015. Energy Programs $2.1 billion for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, which is $136 million more than the FY2015 enacted level. $206 million for activities to modernize the electricity grid, which is $59 million than the FY2015 enacted level. $3.4 billion for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which is the same as the 2015 enacted level. Homeland Security $50 million in new funding to help state and local communities counter violent extremism and to help state and local law enforcement prepare for and respond to complex, coordinated terrorist attacks. Health Programs $2.8 billion for Child Care and Development Block Grants, which is $326 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $835 million for Seniors Nutrition programs, which is $20 million more than the 2015 enacted level. Education Programs $9.2 billion for Head Start, which is $570 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $22.5 billion for Pell Grants, which is the same as the 2015 enacted level. When combined with mandatory funding, these discretionary funds will enable the maximum grant to increase to an estimated $5,915, an increase of $140 in the 2016-2017 school year $11.9 billion for Special Education state grants (IDEA), which is $415 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $2.7 billion for WIOA Job Training Formula Grant program, which is $86 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $450 million for School Improvement Grants, which received $506 million in 2015. $250 million for Preschool Development Grants, which is the same as the FY2015 enacted level. $153 million for Math and Science Partnerships, which is the same as the FY2015 enacted level. Infrastructure Programs $500 million for National Infrastructure Investments (TIGER), which is equal to the 2015 enacted level. $50 million for Railroad Safety Grants, $25 million for rail infrastructure improvements and $25 million for positive train control grants. Housing Programs $17.7 billion for Section 8 Tenant Based Rental Assistance renewals, which is $195 million more than the 2015 enacted level and is sufficient to meet expected need based on updated estimates. $60 million for HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH), which is $15 million below the 2015 enacted level. $10.4 billion for Section 8 Project Based Rental Assistance renewals, which is $885 million more than the 2015 enacted level and is sufficient to meet expected need based on updated estimates. $4.5 billion for Public Housing Operating Fund, which is $60 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $125 million for Choice Neighborhoods Initiative, which is $45 million more than the 2015 enacted level. $3 billion for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), which is equal to the 2015 enacted level $950 million for HOME Investment Partnerships, which is $50 million more than the 2015 enacted level. For more information on the bill see below: ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-announces-illinois-priorities-included-in-omnibus-appropriations-bill-passed-by-congress,Durbin Announces Illinois Priorities Included in Omnibus Appropriations Bill Passed by Congress,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.15 Durbin Announces Illinois Priorities Included in Omnibus Appropriations Bill Passed by Congress [WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Consolidated and Further Appropriations Act of 2016 was passed by the Senate. The bill was passed by the House earlier today and will need to be signed by the President to become law. Thanks to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, critical investments in the middle-class, our veterans, and the nations infrastructure and scientific research programs were part of todays Omnibus Appropriations bill, said Durbin. From important research at our national laboratories to highway construction projects throughout our state, this bill will create Illinois jobs and keep Americas economic growth on track. According to Durbin, the following projects, programs and provisions - listed with the cities, towns or regions they primarily impact - are beneficial to Illinois: Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Department of Transportation TIGER Grant Program, Statewide / Nationwide: $500 million in nationwide funding for the Transportation Infrastructure Grants and Economic Reinvestment (TIGER) grant program allows local communities to apply directly to the DOT for funding of nationally significant transportation projects. This program is especially helpful to communities engaged in multimodal projects that improve connections to different transportation networks. Several projects have been funded under the TIGER grant program in Illinois including: The Normal Multimodal Transportation Center, the Peoria Warehouse District, the CREATE project and the Tri-City Port in Madison County Illinois. Amtrak, Statewide / Nationwide: $1.39 billion in nationwide funding for Amtrak. By providing adequate funding to Amtrak, more than 500 communities in 46 states across the country will continue to see improved passenger rail service. Highway Investments, Statewide / Nationwide: $42.4 billion in nationwide funding for the Federal Highway program. This funding is at the FAST Act fully authorized level. Federal funding comprises 80% of the funds included in the Illinois Department of Transportations multi-year highway improvement program. Transit Investments, Statewide / Nationwide: $9.3 billion in nationwide funding for formula funded accounts. This funding is at the FAST Act fully authorized level. Core Capacity Program, Chicago / Nationwide: $50 million for a competitive grant program Senator Durbin created as part of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) which was signed into law in 2012. This program establishes a new category for capital investment projects by authorizing core capacity projects, like the planned rebuilding of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)s Red and Purple Lines. Airport Investments, Statewide / Nationwide: $3.35 billion in nationwide funding for capital investments grants at airports around the country. Federal aid funding supports airport improvement projects around the state of Illinois including the OHare Modernization Program at OHare International Airport, noise mitigation measures at Midway International Airport, runway improvements at Chicago / Rockford International Airport and Quad City International Airport and safety improvements at Peoria International Airport. FAA Emergency Response Review: $8.8 million in funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement the agencys review of security and emergency response times at air traffic control facilities following the fire incident at the Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in September 2014. Crude Transported by Rail, Nationwide: Funding is included to continue emergency preparedness grants for local communities; web-based training for first responders, and provides funding short line railroad safety. This legislation also requires the Transportation Secretary to finalize a rule on comprehensive oil spill response plans within a year. Rail Safety, Nationwide: $50 million for grants promoting rail safety which includes $25 million for Railroad Safety Infrastructure Improvement Grants; and $25 million for railroad safety technology grants (PTC). The legislation also increases highway-railroad grade crossings to $350 million, and funds a $6.5 million media campaign for highway-rail grade crossing safety. Department of Housing and Urban Development Homeless Assistance Grants, Statewide / Nationwide: $2.25 billion in nationwide funding to maintain services for those currently receiving homeless assistance and to promote communitywide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness. Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS, Statewide / Nationwide: $335 million in nationwide funding for the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program which provides housing assistance and related supportive services to local units of government, States and non-profit organizations for projects that benefit low-income persons medically diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and their families. Community Development Block Grant, Statewide / Nationwide: $3 billion in nationwide funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program which provides annual grants to states and local governments to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and by expanding economic opportunities principally for low and moderate income persons. CDBG funding is an important tool for helping local governments to tackle serious challenges facing their communities. HOME Program, Statewide / Nationwide: $950 million in nationwide funding for the HOME program which helps to expand the supply of decent, affordable housing to low-income and very low-income families by providing grants to state and local governments to fund housing programs that meet local needs and priorities. HOME is the largest federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households. Energy and Water Appropriations Army Corps of Engineers Melvin Price Lock and Dam, Metro East: Report language was included to continue third party oversight of the Army Corps of Engineers while they work to fix the portions of the Wood River Levee that have been negatively impacted by a design deficiency in the construction of the Melvin Price Dam. Metro East Levees, Metro East: Report language was included calling for heightened cooperation by the Corps for the levee projects in Metro East, noting the non-Federal sponsors have raised sufficient cost-share. Wood River Levee, Wood River: $50,000 in funding to continue design and potentially construction of levee improvements to provide the authorized level of protection it provides during a flood. The project is located in the Mississippi River floodplain of Madison County, upstream of the city of East St. Louis. East St. Louis Levees, East St. Louis: $50,000 in funding for the design, construction and rehabilitation of levees that provide flood protection to 200,000 residents and over $1 billion in economic value. Calumet Harbor and River, Chicago: $4.506 million in funding for operations and maintenance of the Calumet Harbor breakwaters. Repairs to the navigation structures are critical for the safe towing of river barges between Calumet Harbor and three Indiana ports. An additional $300,000 was included for construction work at the Harbor. Carlyle Lake, Carlyle: $5.837 million in funding for operations and maintenance at Carlyle Lake, the largest man-made lake in Illinois, with over 26,000 acres of water and 11,000 acres of public land. Funding is needed to provide flood control, water quality control, and water supply to nearby communities as well as recreation and fish and wildlife conservation. The lake was critical to maintaining water levels on the Mississippi River during recent historic low water events. This project is situated in Clinton, Fayette, Bond, and Marion Counties. Chicago Harbor, Chicago: $3.735 million in funding for operation and maintenance of the Chicago Lock, used by commercial towboat and deep draft barges and well as government, passenger and recreational vessels. Chicago Ship and Sanitary Canal Aquatic Nuisance Species Barrier System, Chicago: $28 million in funding to continue operation of the barrier system to eliminate invasive aquatic nuisance species such as the Asian carp and to continue construction of permanent barriers. Farm Creek Reservoirs, East Peoria: $296,000 in funding for continued operation of two dry reservoirs along tributary streams of the Illinois River. This system provides necessary flood control for East Peoria. Illinois River Basin Restoration, Peoria: $400,000 in funding to continue planning and construction to restore and conserve the ecological integrity of the Illinois River, including the reduction of sediment delivery, restoring side channels and backwaters, restoring floodplain riparian and aquatic habitat and function, and improving water and sediment quality. Interbasin Control of Great Lakes-Mississippi River Aquatic Nuisance Species, Chicago: $500,000 in funding to continue a study, including consultations with appropriate Federal, State, local and non-governmental agencies, on the range of options and technologies to prevent the inter-basin transfer of aquatic nuisance species. Kaskaskia River Basin, Central Illinois: $4.148 million for restoring and preserving the natural watershed. This project serves navigation, recreation, fish and wildlife and habitat restoration functions. Lake Shelbyville, Shelbyville: $6.208 million in funding to provide dam maintenance, flood control, water supply, recreation, conservation of fish and wildlife, and water quality control and augment navigation flows downstream on the Kaskaskia River. McCook and Thornton Reservoirs, Chicago: $9 million in funding for continued construction of the McCook Reservoir in the Chicago Underflow Plan. This project benefits the City of Chicago and 36 suburban communities by reducing untreated sewage back flow into Lake Michigan and reducing basement flooding by protecting nearly 150,000 structures. Rend Lake, Rend Lake: $5.606 million in funding to provide flood control, water supply, recreation, conservation of fish and wildlife, and area redevelopment. This project is located near Benton, Illinois, in Franklin and Jefferson Counties. Upper Mississippi River Restoration, Western Illinois: $19.787 million in funding for continued ecosystem restoration along the Upper Mississippi River. Department of Energy Basic Energy Science, Argonne / Nationwide: $1.8 billion in funding for the Office of Sciences Basic Energy Science account which is Argonne National Laboratorys largest single-source funding source, and accounts for approximately 40 percent of the labs funding; Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage, Argonne: $24.1 million for the Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage. In November 2012, Argonne National Laboratory was selected to receive an award of up to $120 million over five years to create the Hub, also known as the Joint Center for Energy Storage Research (JCESR), which is a partnership including University of Chicago, the University of Illinois, the City of Chicago, and private firms and townships in Illinois. The project will establish Illinois as a leader in a multi-billion dollar, developing industry that has potential to stimulate substantial employment and economic growth. Advanced Photon Source Upgrade, Argonne / Nationwide: $20 million for Advanced Photon Source, a sophisticated x-ray beam that companies, universities, and other research institutions use to conduct break-through research to discover new energy materials, pharmaceuticals, and security infrastructure and transportation. Advanced Scientific Computing Research, Argonne / Nationwide: $621 million in funding for the Office of Sciences Advanced Scientific Computing Research account, which supports Argonnes National Laboratorys supercomputer initiatives including $77 million for the operations of Argonnes Leadership Computing Facility. High Energy Physics, Fermilab / Nationwide: $795 million in funding for the Office of Sciences High Energy Physics account which is the primary source of funding for Fermilab, and accounts for approximately 90 percent of the labs funding; Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment, Fermilab / Nationwide: $26 million in funding is included for the Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment, a primary focus at Fermilab.Research in neutrinos represents the next frontier of particle physics. The Muon to Electron Experiment, Fermilab / Nationwide: $40 million in funding is included for the Muon to Electron Experiment which could result in the development of a revolutionary technology in the field. Uranium & Thorium Cleanup, West Chicago: $32.9 million for the Department of Energys Title X program, which pays contractors to clean up legacy defense sites across the country, including the site in West Chicago. The Committee has also included language that directs the Department of Energy to provide funding for the program in future budgets. Homeland Security Appropriations Department of Homeland Security AFG & SAFER Grant Programs, Nationwide: $690 million in nationwide funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program. The AFG Program seeks to strengthen the nations overall level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and fire related hazards.Since 2001, the AFG has provided approximately $5.25 billion in federal funding to first-responder organizations across the country to help purchase response equipment, personal protective equipment, training, and vehicles. The SAFER program seeks to enhance a departments ability to maintain 24-hour staffing and ensures that the community has adequate protection from fire and fire-related hazards. Interior Appropriations Department of the Interior Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), Great Lakes Region: $300 million in funding for the GLRI to support the inter-agency program to address issues affecting the Great Lakes, including invasive species and pollution. The bill also authorizes the GLRI for one year. Pullman National Monument, Chicago: $2.4 billion in funding for the National Park Service, including funding to support the newly designated Pullman National Monument in Chicago, Illinois and Honouliuli National Monument in Honolulu, Hawaii. Sewage Dumping in the Great Lakes, Great Lakes Region: Language in the legislation requires all water treatment systems with combined sewer overflow events that flow into the Great Lakes to report such flows into the surrounding states. The language also requires the offending system to work with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to find ways to prevent future overflows from occurring. In 2013, Durbin cosponsored legislation the Great Lakes Water Protection Act that would end sewage dumping in the Great Lakes by 2033. Aquatic Habitat and Species Conservation, Nationwide: $74.9 million in funding to encourage habitat and species conservation and restoration, as well as combat the spread of invasive species such as Asian carp and zebra mussels. This amount includes $7.9 million for Asian carp activities. Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Department of the Army Army Family Housing, Rock Island Arsenal: $29 million to construct 38 single family housing units at Rock Island Arsenal. These units will replace family housing units that have exceeded their useful and economic life. Without these new homes, service members relocating to the Arsenal would not be able to find adequate, affordable units within the housing market area. Army National Guard Firing Range, Sparta, Illinois: $1.9 million for a new firing range for the Illinois National Guard. The Guard currently lacks a facility for this type of small arms training in south central Illinois. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical & Prosthetic Research, Nationwide: $630.7 million investment in the Veterans Affairs Medical and Prosthetic research program which will help improve quality of life for veterans and quality of care. Senator Durbin included an amendment in the legislation which provided an increase in this funding to represent 5% plus inflation over last years levels. The increase is consistent with the goals set forward by Senator Durbins American Cures Act, which he introduced in January 2015. That legislation calls for consistent investment5% plus inflationover 10 years for NIH, CDC, VAs Medical and Prosthetic Research Program, and Defense Health Programs Caregivers Initiative, Nationwide: The legislation includes language to ensure there is a dedicated Caregivers coordinator at each VA health facility; encourage the VA to examine expansion of the program beyond the post-9/11 population; encourage the VA to engage with the Department of Defense about its caregivers program, to share best practices; and direct the VA to survey all VA caregivers to identify the number possession outstanding student loan debt and develop a plan to monitor the issue, including future data collection. Funding will be allocated through the legislation to expand benefits and services for caregivers to include health care and mental health services, training adapted to the veterans individual care needs, and a direct stipend payment. The Family Caregiver Program was created by a Durbin-authored provision in the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009. These initiatives are leading to retention of better trained and more qualified caregivers, thus enhancing long-term care provided to veterans. Orthotics & Prosthetics Workforce Improve, Nationwide: Report language is included to require the VA to explore cost-effective opportunities to grow the orthotics and prosthetics workforce pipeline and report back to the Senate and House Appropriations Committees within 180-days of enactment.The language follows Durbin-authored legislation to enhance research in best practices and offer competitive grant funding to colleges and universities offering degree programs to train specialists in orthotic and prosthetic care. Reducing the Disability Claims Backlog, Nationwide: $2.7 billion in funding to the Veterans Benefits Administration which is a full funding of the agencys operations that include initiatives to address the backlog of disability claims such as the move from a paper-based claims process to a digital environment. This funding level represents $166 million more than fiscal year 2015 funding. Whistleblower Protections, Nationwide:The bill would close a loophole that harms VA personnel who have experienced whistleblower retaliation in the form of negative personnel evaluation, giving the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) the power to investigate these reviews as part of the potential retaliatory personnel actions that OSC currently has authority over. The bill would also require the VA to inform all employees of their rights with respect to reporting wrongdoings and whistleblower protections. Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations Department of Health and Human Services Opioid Abuse Prevention, Nationwide: $3.8 billion for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) which includes $47 million directed to addressing the burgeoning epidemic of prescription drug and heroin overdose: $25 million an increase of $13 million for medication assisted treatment in high-risk states, $12 million for naloxone distribution in 10 states; and $10 million for prevention efforts in up to 20 states that will build awareness of prescription drugs. Childrens Hospitals Graduate Medical Education, Chicago / Nationwide: $295 million (an increase in $30 million over FY2015) in nationwide funding to childrens hospitals for residency programs that train the pediatric workforce. Childrens Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Illinois has previously benefitted from this program. Community Health Centers, Statewide / Nationwide: $5.1 billion for Community Health Centers nationwide. Department of Education Impact Aid, North Chicago / Nationwide: $1.3 billion in nationwide funding for Impact Aid, including $66 million for Federal property payments. This program provides assistance to school districts that have lost tax revenue due to tax-exempt federal properties or that experience increased expenditures due to the enrollment of federally connected children, such as those living on military installations. This funding is critical for school districts in Illinois such as the North Shore School District who enroll hundreds of children from nearby military installations. Pell Grant, Statewide / Nationwide: With funding under the bill, the maximum Pell grant for 2015-2016 is estimated to be $5,915. That is an increase of more than $100 over the previous year. Pell Grants help keep college within reach for millions of low income students each year, including nearly 400,000 Illinois students in 2011-12. Agriculture Appropriations Department of Agriculture Plant Health, Tree and Wood Pests, Statewide / Nationwide: $54 million to help identify and contain wood-boring pests threatening tree health across the country, 19 of which have been detected in the past decade, including the Emerald Ash Borer. Included in the funding are resources to identify and contain Emerald Ash Borer infestations and to increase public awareness of the threat in Illinois and 14 other states. Food and Drug Administration Food Safety Modernization Act Implementation, Nationwide: $104.5 million in funding for implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act. This funding increase will allow FDA to improve compliance and inspection programs and allow FDA to invest in tools to significantly cut the time it takes to respond to complex food safety issues. Senator Durbins Food Safety Modernization Act was first introduced in 2008 and the bill was signed into law in January 2011. When the bill was introduced, 48 million Americans suffer from preventable foodborne illness each year. FDA is still in the process of implementing the improved requirements included in the bill. Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Consumer Product Safety Commission, Nationwide: $125 million in nationwide funding for the nations leading consumer protection watchdog in its work to protect the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from thousands of types of consumer products. The bill also encourages the limitation and reduction of flame retardant chemicals. In 2012, the Commission released a study that indicates that flame retardant chemicals, as currently used in upholstered furniture foam, have no practical impact on flammability. In July 2012, Durbin chaired a hearing on the safety and effectiveness of flame retardant chemicals, following a Chicago Tribune four-part investigative report on flame retardant chemicals and furniture flammability standards which explored the role of Big Tobacco and their attempt to shift the focus from cigarettes as the cause of fire deaths. Chemical companies, which sought to preserve a lucrative market for their products, teamed with the tobacco industry and state fire marshals to steer policymakers away from developing fire-safe cigarette standards and toward rules requiring furniture flammability standards. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI), Nationwide: $233.5 million for the CDFI to promote access to capital and local economic growth in urban and rural low-income communities by providing seed money for community development projects in communities unserved or underserved by traditional financial institutions. Of this funding, $19 million was provided for the Bank Enterprise Award program, which provides a financial incentive to insured depository institutions to undertake community development financing activities. Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Department of Justice Thomson Prison, Quad Cities: Includes the full amount of capital and operating needs to continue the opening of the prison. The legislation gives the Bureau of Prisons $6.95 billion for salaries and expenses which is the funding necessary to allocate roughly $83 million requested for Thomson Prison. Preventing Gun Violence, Chicago / Statewide / Nationwide: $1.1 billion in nationwide funding to enhance efforts to protect our communities from gun violence. This includes $840 million, an increase of $42 million, for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to enforce gun laws, trace crime guns, investigate illegal gun trafficking and keep schools safe. The bill also provides $114 million to the Federal Bureau of Investigation to run instant criminal background checks for gun purchases; provides $73 million in grants for states to improve submission of criminal and mental health records to the background check database; and provides $75 million for a comprehensive school safety initiative to help schools conduct safety assessments. Addressing the Heroin Crisis, Statewide / Nationwide: $7 million for a program within the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) office for competitive grants to anti-heroin task forces. Second Chance Act Prisoner Reentry Programs, Chicago / Statewide / Nationwide: $68 million for prisoner reentry programs pursuant to the Second Chance Act of 2007, in addition to$27.5 million for criminal justice reform and recidivism reduction efforts. Prosecutor and Public Defender Student Loan Repayment, Nationwide: $2 million in funding to the John R. Justice student loan repayment program. The funding will be used to help prosecutor and public defender offices retain and attract talented attorneys by providing student loan repayment assistance to state and federal public defenders and state prosecutors who agree to remain in their positions for at least three years. The program was created by legislation that Durbin first introduced in 2003 and that was passed into law as part of the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008. Department of Commerce Economic Development Assistance Program, Nationwide: $222 million in nationwide funding for the Economic Development Assistance Program which provides crucial grants to states, localities, non-profit organizations and others to create jobs in economically challenged areas. The Economic Development Administration has long invested in a wide variety of construction and non-construction economic development tools from revolving loan funds to public infrastructure Defense Appropriations Department of Defense Humvee Ambulances, Quad Cities: $60 million for the production of Humvee ambulances at Rock Island Arsenal. Industrial Mobilization Capacity (IMC), Quad Cities: $145 million in funding for Industrial Mobilization Capacity (IMC) to help arsenals keep their work rates competitive. This funding helps Rock Island Arsenal and other arsenals compete more effectively for public-private partnerships and other business to help sustain capacity, cost efficiency and technical competence in peacetime, while preserving the ability to provide an effective and timely response to mobilizations, national defense contingency situations and other emergent requirements.Durbin included a similar provision in the FY14 & FY15 Department of Defense Appropriations Bills, which were both funded in the final legislation. Maintaining a Minimum Workload, Quad Cities: The legislation requires the Secretary of the Army to maintain a minimum workload at Rock Island Arsenal (and the arsenals in New York and Arkansas). The legislation also directs the Secretary of Defense to review opportunities within other services and the Defense Logistics Agency to maximize workloads at arsenals. Production of F/A-18s & E/A-18Gs, St. Louis Region: $1.01 billion in funding for the production of five F/A-18s ($350million) and seven E/A-18Gs ($660 million). The Navy has identified a need for additional F/A-18s and E/A-18Gs as part of its FY16 unfunded requests list, as well as an ongoing need for electronic attack capability. Production of F/A-18s and E/A-18Gs is based at Boeings St. Louis plant, which employs thousands of workers, including 2,000 from Illinois. In addition, the bill includes an additional $8 million for F-18 generator upgrades. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, North Chicago: $121 million to extend the DOD-VA pilot program at Lovell Federal Health Care Center for a fifth year. Since 1999, Durbin has played a major role in the development and implementation of the Lovell Federal Health Care Center, which serves as an integrated healthcare facility for both servicemembers and veterans in the North Chicago region. Illinois National Guard, Peoria: $33.2 million to accelerate nationwide engine upgrades and enhancements to C-130H aircraft, eight of which are flown by the 182nd Air National Guard wing based in Peoria, Illinois. These upgrades will reduce the need for repairs to the C-130H aircraft, and will also make them more powerful and energy efficient. Illinois National Guard, Rantoul: $5.207 million in funding for the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program. ChalleNGe academics including Lincoln's ChalleNGe Academy in Rantoul, Illinois give at-risk youths who have dropped out of high school a second chance at completing their education using a military model. Since its founding in 1993, 35 ChalleNGe academies across the country have graduated more than 120,000 participants. Ammunition Production, East Alton / Marion: The bill maintains funding for numerous ammunition lines including lines produced at Olin Brass in East Alton, Illinois and General Dynamics in Marion, Illinois which are critical to the safety of our troops overseas. Army Corps of Engineers, Champaign: The bill supports President Obamas budget request for the Army Corps of Engineers Research Center in Champaign, Illinois. The Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) concentrates on improving the design and effectiveness of Army installations and ranges, making them more resilient, efficient and affordable. CERL research and products also improve environmental sustainability while contributing to other Army Corps Research Center priorities. Orthotics and Prosthetics Outcomes Research, Nationwide: $10 million in funding for Department of Defense research into orthotics and prosthetics. Just as investing in basic and advanced science has paid great dividends, similar investments in medical research and battlefield medicine are saving more lives while improving care options and quality of life after injuries. This knowledge helps better inform treatment for everyone. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-commends-president-for-commuting-sentences-of-95-nonviolent-drug-offenders,Durbin Commends President for Commuting Sentences of 95 Nonviolent Drug Offenders,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.15 Durbin Commends President for Commuting Sentences of 95 Nonviolent Drug Offenders Durbin advocated for Illinois Alton Mills, among those to be released under new Department of Justice initiative [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), sponsor of the Fair Sentencing Act and the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act, commended President Obama today for commuting the sentences of 95 Americans, including Alton Mills and eight other Illinoisans. After learning of Mr. Mills story and meeting with his family and attorney, Durbin wrote President Obama in support of Mr. Mills petition for commutation of his sentence earlier this month. Mr. Mills has served 22 years of a mandatory life sentence for a nonviolent drug offense. An overlooked casualty in our war on drugs are the men and women who have been convicted under disproportionately harsh mandatory minimum sentencing laws. These people, like Illinoisan Alton Mills, are victims of some of the most egregious inequities in our criminal justice system, Durbin said. I am very glad to see President Obama take action today to give 95 Americans a second chance. As we move forward with criminal justice reform in Congress, I urge the President to continue using the clemency process to improve the fairness of our criminal justice system. Mr. Mills was convicted in 1994 for acting as a street-level courier in a crack cocaine conspiracy. At his sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge Marvin Aspen said if I were free to sentence [Mr. Mills] it would be something other than life. Like Durbin, Judge Aspen also wrote a letter supporting commutation of Mr. Mills sentence. While Congress must take action to reform our drug sentencing laws, Durbin has called on President Obama to use his pardon power to help those who are still serving lengthy sentences that are now widely recognized as unjust. In April, the Department of Justice announced a new Clemency Initiative for pardon petitioners who meet certain criteria, including non-violent low-level offenders who would likely receive a lower sentence if convicted of the same offense today.There has been a reduction in recent years in the number of Presidential pardons and commutations, despite an increase in requests that many attribute to lengthier federal drug sentences. Durbin has long championed efforts to address inequalities in the criminal justice system and mandatory minimum sentencing. In 2010, President Obama signed into law Durbins Fair Sentencing Act. The bipartisan bill to curtail the sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine marked the first time Congress has repealed a mandatory minimum since the Nixon administration. Durbin has since sponsored both the Smarter Sentencing Act and the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act. The Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act, which was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee earlier this year, grants judges greater sentencing flexibility for certain low-level drug offenders and establishes recidivism reduction programs, while targeting violent criminals. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-joins-bipartisan-coalition-of-senators-hailing-passage-of-historic-chemical-safety-law,Durbin Joins Bipartisan Coalition of Senators Hailing Passage of Historic Chemical Safety Law,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.15 Durbin Joins Bipartisan Coalition of Senators Hailing Passage of Historic Chemical Safety Law [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined a bipartisan coalition of senators, led by U.S. Sens. Tom Udall (D-NM) and David Vitter (R-LA), in celebrating the Senate's historic passage of the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act, a chemical safety reform bill to overhaul the nation's broken Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 (TSCA). The bill passed the Senate last night by a unanimous voice vote and now has 61 bipartisan cosponsors. The 39-year-old TSCA is the last of the major environmental laws passed in the 1960s and '70s that has not yet been modernized. The bill must now be reconciled with the U.S. House of Representatives-passed legislation on the same issue. Passage of the bill was thanks to hard work from many senators. At a news conference this morning, Udall and Vitter thanked several partners who have worked hard to make the bill stronger and more bipartisan: Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman James Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Senators Tom Carper (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). Durbin said: I was drawn to this issue following a Chicago Tribune series in 2012 that revealed that flame retardant chemicals added to furniture and other household goods are useless and toxic for American families. I found, in talking with my colleagues, that there was very little we could do about it. For generations, a lot of Americans have been exposed to unsafe chemicals without knowing it and with no one to protect them. With the passage of this bill, we will change that. Udall said: ""After years of negotiations, collaboration and working with stakeholders across the country, we have made tremendous progress toward historic, bipartisan environmental reform. I want to thank Senator Vitter and our partners in the Senate who rolled up their sleeves and worked to make this day possible: Chairman Inhofe and Senator Carper; Senators Booker, Merkley and Whitehouse; and Senators Durbin and Markey; and Senator Coons. Everyone put partisanship aside in order to address the substance and make this bill better. As many as 1,500 new chemicals come on the market each year, but there is no cop on the beat making sure they're safe for consumers or our environment. This bill will require the EPA to test all of them, make sure theyre safe and put the focus where it ought to be on how these chemicals affect the most vulnerable in New Mexico and across the country. TSCA has been broken from the beginning. Thirty-nine years is too long to go without strong protections for Americans' health and safety. I look forward to working with members of the House on a final product that the president will sign so we can finally protect our children from dangerous chemicals."" Vitter said: Senator Tom Udall and I, along with our Democrat and Republican colleagues and countless stakeholders, have spent years at the negotiating table to arrive at the best possible compromise to reform our nations outdated chemical legislation and allow our industries to remain innovative leaders. Our work is not yet done, however. Im eager to continue the legislative process with our House colleagues early next year so that we can sign chemical safety reform into law. The bill is available HERE and a detailed summary is available HERE. The bill is named after the late Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), who worked for many years to reform the broken and outdated TSCA. It overhauls the law by requiring for the first time that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) review new and existing chemicals and regulate them based on the impact they would have on those individuals most at risk: infants, pregnant women, the elderly and chemical industry workers. The bill ensures chemical companies can no longer hide information on their products from public view, and it requires chemical companies to contribute significantly to the cost of regulation and ensure the EPA has the funds to do its job. In the 39 years since TSCA was enacted, the EPA has been able to restrict just five chemicals, and it has prevented only four chemicals from going to market out of the more than 23,000 new chemicals manufactured since 1976. Inhofe said: The Senate passage of the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act is a historic, bipartisan victory that will protect both families and the environment as well as providing a workable regulatory framework for American businesses. This legislation would not have been possible without Bonnie Lautenberg and her unwavering commitment to her late husbands legacy. With the Senate unanimously agreeing to send this bill to the House, I look forward to working with my friends across the capitol to get meaningful TSCA reform to the Presidents desk and signed into law. Carper said: Bipartisanship is hard to come by in the Senate these days, especially on environmental issues, this is a historic step toward reforming our toxics laws to better serve both the public and businesses in Delaware and around the country. After too many years of failure, both sides of the aisle have worked together to compromise on policy, without ever compromising their principles. We all owe sincere thanks to Senator Udall for his leadership, determination, and tireless efforts alongside Senator Vitter and Senator Inhofe to produce this bipartisan piece of legislation. Together weve made it to first and goal, and I look forward to reconciling this bill with the House version and getting it across the finish line. Booker said: Frank Lautenberg would be proud of the Senates unanimous vote to approve the bill that bears his name, which brings us a step closer to the end of a long journey he started to strengthen the laws that help keep Americans safe from toxic chemicals. These changes are already decades overdue. The Senate and House need to now work together to quickly get this bill to the Presidents desk to be signed into law. Coons said: Since being elected to the Senate in 2010, I have heard from countless Delawareans researchers, nurses, parents, business owners about how ineffective the 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act is today, and how we can and must do better. Delaware is home to some of Americas leading chemical manufacturers, so my constituents and I see firsthand the detrimental impact of this outdated law on both communities and businesses. The reforms in this bill give critical authority to the Environmental Protection Agency to police dangerous chemicals, while providing regulatory certainty for the businesses whose innovations we depend on every day. Im particularly pleased that the bill includes a section that reflects my Sustainable Chemistry R&D Act, which will encourage the development and commercialization of new chemicals, materials, and processes that are better for the environment. Markey said: For too long, TSCA has been a statute that simply does not work and EPAs authority to regulate dangerous chemicals has been broken. The legislation to reform and update TSCA that unanimously passed the Senate represents the kind of bipartisan commitment, married with compromise, that yields important, long-lasting policy. Enormous credit is owed to the tremendous efforts made by Senators Udall, Vitter, and Inhofe and their staffs. I thank Senator Durbin for his partnership to strengthen this legislation and Senators Merkley, Whitehouse and Booker who worked to improve this bill. I stand ready to roll up my sleeves to work with the House to turn this bill into law and protect the health and safety of the American people. Merkley said: The passage of this bill is an enormous milestone on the path toward a safer, healthier future for our families. Its totally unacceptable that in the most powerful country on earth, our federal government has been powerless to protect us from incredibly damaging toxic chemicals in everyday products. Now, were taking action to change that. I was pleased to work with a bipartisan coalition to pass this bill in the Senate, and I look forward to working with our colleagues in the House to get a bill signed into law. Whitehouse said: Our main toxic chemicals law hasnt done nearly enough to protect Americans health and our environment. Its stuck states like Rhode Island with the difficult job of protecting the public from complicated chemicals and saddled businesses with a confusing patchwork of rules and regulations. This bill will provide consumers with confidence that the products they use are safe. It will also give more certainty to businesses. Im proud of the work weve done to craft this legislation and glad to see it advance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-votes-against-622-billion-in-new-government-debt,Foster Votes Against $622 Billion In New Government Debt,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) voted against the Tax Extender package, an unfunded collection of tax breaks that would increase the deficit by $622 billion over the next ten years and an estimated $2 trillion over the next 20 years. The tax giveaways that so-called fiscal conservative Republicans insisted on inserting into this package would add $622 billion to our national debt over the next ten years, said Foster. While this bill contains positive elements such as making the R&D tax credit permanent, the fact that it is totally unpaid for means that we are borrowing from foreign countries to pay off special interests today, while forcing future tax increases or benefit cuts onto our children. We need responsible, comprehensive tax reform that will build on the economic progress we have made in the last seven years, but unfortunately, this isnt it. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-puerto-rico-english-and-spanish,Rep. Gutirrez on Puerto Rico in English and Spanish,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"VIDEO: https://youtu.be/XfCRnLA_cUw Washington, DC On Thursday, Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez delivered brief remarks in English and Spanish on the floor of the House of Representatives on Puerto Rico and why he plans to vote against the omnibus government spending bill. Washington, DC El jueves, El Congresista Luis Gutirrez dio un breve discurso en ingls y en espaol desde la Cmara de Representantes sobre Puerto Rico y porque planea votar en contra del presupuesto mnibus del gobierno. Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez: Mr. Speaker: I cannot vote for the omnibus deal because it does not give the people of Puerto Rico some hope for a better future. The omnibus does not provide a path forward amid budget cuts, cuts in services, growing unemployment and the greedy banks and bond holders who demand more and more even as the people of Puerto Rico have less and less. Puerto Rico is a colony of the United States. Its sovereignty rests here in the Congress of the United States and we will not do anything to help them. Asi que maana le digo al pueblo de Puerto Rico, yo estar con ustedes. Votar en contra de este presupuesto porque si no hay escuelas en Puerto Rico, si no hay policas para defender a la gente en la calle, si no hay doctores o enfermeras para curar a los enfermos, tampoco habr un voto para este presupuesto hasta que haya justicia para el pueblo. Y le digo a todo Congresista que vota a favor de este presupuesto, que le niega un futuro a Puerto Rico y le traiciona al pueblo de Puerto Rico. Gracias. Translation of Spanish Portion: So tomorrow I tell the people of Puerto Rico, I will be with you. I will vote against this omnibus budget because if there are no schools in Puerto Rico, if there is no law enforcement to protect the people on the streets, if there are no doctors or nurses healing the sick, there wont be a vote on this budget until there is justice for the people. And I tell every Representative that votes in favor of this budget, you are denying a future for Puerto Rico and you are betraying the people of Puerto Rico. Thank you. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. Rep. Gutirrez representa al Cuarto Distrito de Illinois, es miembro del Comit Permanente Selecto de la Cmara sobre Inteligencia, es miembro del Comit Judicial y el Subcomit de Inmigracin y Seguridad Fronteriza, y el Subcomit de Crimen, Terrorismo, Seguridad Interna e Investigaciones. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-durbin-omnibus-appropriations-bill-invests-500-million-in-priority-transportation-and-infrastructure-projects,Durbin: Omnibus Appropriations Bill Invests $500 Million in Priority Transportation & Infrastructure Projects,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.15 Durbin: Omnibus Appropriations Bill Invests $500 Million in Priority Transportation & Infrastructure Projects Competitive TIGER Grant Program awarded Illinois projects $290 million in funding since 2009 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) announced today that the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 includes $500 million for investments in priority transportation projects through the competitive TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) Grant Program. Illinois has been the second largest beneficiary of TIGER funding across the country, receiving nearly $290 million since the popular program was created in 2009. Illinois lies at the heart of our nations transportation network. Communities in our state from Chicago to Alton have seen the benefits of the TIGER Grant Program firsthand, said Durbin. As our infrastructure needs remain high, robust funding for the TIGER Grant Program will make much-needed investments in the highway, bridge, airport, rail, and port projects that are critical to our economic future and the safety of travelers throughout the country. The Department of Transportations TIGER grant program was originally created as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in order to give local communities the chance to apply directly to the federal government for funding their highest priority transportation projects. The program invests in a variety of transportation modes, selects projects through a transparent, competitive and merit-based process, and requires the Secretary of Transportation to provide a full description of how applications will be evaluated. The grant program also ensures that projects across the country are funded, and includes several provisions to balance the needs of urban and rural areas. Demand for the program every year is dramatically higher than available funding. Illinois has received twice as much money through the competitive TIGER Grant Program than through traditional federal highway funds distributed by formula. Since the program was first established in 2009, Illinois has received nearly $290 million in TIGER funding to support critical transportation and infrastructure projects across the state including: the Warehouse District in Peoria, the Multimodal Facilities in Moline, Normal, Urbana, and Alton, the Chicago Lakefront Bridge in Bronzeville, and the CREATE project in Chicago. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-puerto-rico-and-omnibus-government-funding-bill,Rep. Gutirrez on Puerto Rico and the Omnibus Government Funding Bill,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Anyone who votes for the omnibus is complicit in the economicand social tragedy headed Puerto Ricos way. Washington, DC On Wednesday, Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) met with Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi along with Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) to discuss the omnibus government funding deal to be voted on in the House this week. In particular, Rep. Gutirrez discussed what is and is not in the omnibus package related to Puerto Ricos financial crisis. The Congressman thanked the Congressional Hispanic Caucus for standing up for Puerto Rico and raising the Islands financial crisis as a major issue missing from the omnibus negotiated by key Democratic Leaders with their Republican counterparts. Puerto Rico is a colony, the Congressman reminded his colleagues in the meeting. The sovereignty of the Puerto Rican people resides here in Congress and it is your responsibility whether you like it or not. I cannot face the people of Puerto Rico having voted for this bill because it should have included relief for Puerto Rico to keep schools, hospitals, and roads the basic functions of government open and functioning over the holidays and into next year, Said Rep. Gutirrez. No one in Congress is taking the situation in Puerto Rico seriously enough and anyone who votes for the omnibus is complicit in the economic and social tragedy headed Puerto Ricos way. Republicans dont care if Puerto Rico floats or sinks as long as the bond-holders get paid, the Congressman said. But I am disappointed that the issue has not risen to the level where Democrats are willing to throw down over it. So Puerto Rico continues to sink and needs either the dysfunctional Congress or the laissez-faire Obama Administration to take action. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-remarks-introduction-assault-weapons-ban-2015,Rep. Gutirrez Remarks on Introduction of Assault Weapons Ban of 2015,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"How many children under 21 have we lost to guns in years sincethe Assault Weapons Ban of 1994 expired? Too many. In my cityof Chicago, we lose a classroom full of young people almost everymonth. Washington, DC On Wednesday, Rep. David Cicilline of Rhode Island introduced the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015, a bill to ban the sale, transfer, production, and importation of certain weapons and ammunition feeding devices. Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez is an original co-sponsor of the bill and has consistently supported such legislation from his earliest days in Congress. He voted for the assault weapons ban that was approved in 1994 and called for it to be strengthened, extended, and broadened in every Congress since then. The following are the remarks Rep. Gutirrez delivered at a press conference today in the Capitol marking the introduction of the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015: Remarks As Prepared for Delivery: Here is the story from Medill News Service, May 30, 2003: Two Chicago congressmen pressured House Speaker Dennis Hastert on Thursday to take a greater leadership role in renewing the federal law prohibiting assault weapons. ""The weapons that are banned under this legislation are the most deadly and dangerous types of guns on the market today,"" said U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Chicago. Such guns are ""weapons of choice in Chicago for drive-by shooters in my congressional district and in every congressional district across the city,"" he said. Thats what I said when I co-sponsored the Assault Weapons Ban and Law Enforcement Protection Act of 2003 a bill to extend and strengthen the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban. So more than a dozen years later, I am still fighting for an assault weapons ban a ban first implemented 21 years ago. I am not saying this to be nostalgic or to take a walk down memory lane. I say it because this place is so stuck so mired in partisanship and in entrenched lobbying groups like the NRA that we cannot even take action when everyone agrees. On immigration, on guns, on climate, on nothing. There is always one group who wants no action, who wants nothing to happen, who makes the other party so scared of taking any action that the Congressyear after year and decade after decadetakes no action. How many children under 21 have we lost to guns in years since the Assault Weapons Ban of 1994 expired? Too many. In my city of Chicago, we lose a classroom full of young people almost every month. And lets be clear, it is not all assault weapons, but that is part of it. It is not all crime guns the cheap guns that are brought into Chicago from Indiana, Wisconsin, Arkansas, and Mississippi to get around Chicagos stricter laws but that is part of it. And we all know that we are losing children young people at the hands of the police as Chicago grapples with use of force policies, transparency, and the basic trust needed between a community and its police force a fundamental building block of democracy and liberty which has failed us in Chicago dating all the way back to 1968. An assault weapons ban does not solve all these problems, but it helps. It does not take guns and bullets off of the streets completely, but it would help. In the end, until we as Americans begin to see children at Sandy Hook, at Red Hook, at Back of the Yards, and the Southside and South Central as our own children, our own children being slaughtered by guns, by each other, by police, by drugs, and by our indifference until that happens, we must keep raising our voice in their defense. Thank you. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-sobre-puerto-rico-y-el-%C3%B3mnibus-del-presupuesto-del-gobierno,Rep. Gutirrez Sobre Puerto Rico y el mnibus del Presupuesto del Gobierno,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Cualquier persona que vote por el mnibus es cmplice de la tragedia econmica y social dirigida hacia Puerto Rico. Washington, DC El mircoles, el congresista Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) se reuni con la lder Demcrata Nancy Pelosi, junto con miembros del Caucus Hispano del Congreso (CHC), el Caucus Afro-Americano del Congreso (CBC), y el Caucus del Congreso Asitico del Pacfico (CAPAC) a discutir el acuerdo de financiacin del gobierno mnibus que ser votado en la Cmara esta semana. En particular, el diputado Gutirrez discuti lo que hay - y no hay - en el paquete de mnibus en relacin con la crisis financiera de Puerto Rico. El congresista agradeci al Caucus Hispano del Congreso por su defensa de Puerto Rico ""Puerto Rico es una colonia"", el congresista les record a sus colegas en la reunin. ""La soberana del pueblo de Puerto Rico reside aqu en el Congreso y es su responsabilidad, le guste o no."" ""No puedo mirarle en los ojos a pueblo puertorriqueo y haber votado por este proyecto de ley, ya que debera haber incluido un alivio para Puerto Rico para mantener al da las escuelas, hospitales y seguridad pblica - las funciones bsicas de gobierno - abiertas y funcionando durante estas navidades y el ao que viene, dijo el representante Gutirrez. ""El Congreso no est tomando la situacin en Puerto Rico lo suficientemente en serio y cualquier persona que vote por el mnibus es cmplice de la tragedia econmica y social dirigida hacia Puerto Rico."" ""A los Republicanos no les importa si Puerto Rico flota o se hunde, siempre y cuando a los tenedores de bonos se les pague"", dijo el congresista. Pero estoy decepcionado de que el tema no se ha elevado hasta el nivel donde los Demcratas estn dispuestos a pelear. As que Puerto Rico sigue hundindose y necesita ya sea que este Congreso disfuncional o la administracin pasiva de Obama tome medidas"". Rep. Gutirrez representa al Cuarto Distrito de Illinois, es miembro del Comit Permanente Selecto de la Cmara sobre Inteligencia, es miembro del Comit Judicial y el Subcomit de Inmigracin y Seguridad Fronteriza, y el Subcomit de Crimen, Terrorismo, Seguridad Interna e Investigaciones. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-joins-fight-to-remove-weapons-of-war-from-our-communities,Quigley Joins Fight to Remove Weapons of War from Our Communities,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) joined U.S. Rep. David N. Cicilline (RI-01) and other gun violence prevention advocates to introduce the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015, which prohibits the sale, transfer, production, and importation of new military-style weapons and high-capacity magazines. In the 10 years since the Assault Weapons Ban lapsed, these firearms were used in more than half of all mass shootings. The shooters in San Bernardino, Colorado Springs, Sandy Hook Elementary School, Aurora, and Roseburg, Oregon all had high-capacity weapons and ammunition. Congress cannot continue to stand by as these weapons of war are bought and sold freely, said Rep. Quigley. Im proud to be an original co-sponsor of the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015. It is time we enact laws that effectively address the publics safety and keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of dangerous people. The Assault Weapons Ban of 2015 will prohibit the sale, transfer, production, and importation of: Semi-automatic rifles and handguns with a military-style feature that can accept a detachable magazine; Semi-automatic rifles and handguns with a fixed magazine that can hold more than 10 rounds; Semi-automatic shotguns with a military-style feature; Any ammunition feeding device that can hold more than 10 rounds; And 157 specifically-named and listed firearms. The bill also sets new standards to prevent default proceeds the standard that allows firearms dealers to complete a sale if a buyers background check is not completed within three days. Under the proposed law, the background check period will be extended to 14 days for the sale or transfer of an existing assault weapon. If it is determined that a gun was sold to a prohibited individual, the FBI will be required to notify federal, state, and local law enforcement so the weapon can be retrieved as quickly as possible and the buyer can be held accountable for violating federal law. Rep. Quigley helped introduce the Assault Weapons Ban of 2015 at the U.S. Capitol Building. More than half of all mass shooters who killed four or more people used an assault weapon. Thats because the sole purpose of an assault weapon is to inflict as much damage as possible in as short an amount of time as possible, added Rep. Cicilline. This bill is an important first step that will restore some sanity to the way we treat guns in the United States. Assault weapons were used in attacks last month in San Bernardino and Colorado Springs. Shooters also used them to commit mass murder at Sandy Hook Elementary School, a movie theatre in Aurora, Colorado, and a community college in Roseburg, Oregon. When an assault weapon or a high-capacity magazine is used in a shooting, the number of victims who are killed increases by 63 percent. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Quigley hascalled on Congress to stand up to the gun lobbyin America. Most recently, he co-authored abipartisan background check billthat expands the existing background check system to cover all commercial firearm sales. He also introduced theGood Neighbor Gun Act, which would require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to establish a voluntary code of conduct for licensed gun dealers and create a national Good Neighbor certification for gun dealers who abide by a certain set of requirements. His signature legislation, theTRACE Act, cracks down on the illegal gun market by improving gun tracking data and provides law enforcement the tools it needs to enforce current gun laws. Rep. Quigley believesChicagos gun violence epidemic demands a federal response. He has led bills toincrease funding to public safety and combat gun violencein the Chicago area, and is an original sponsor of theBuyback Our Safety Actto bolster gun buyback initiatives. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-bustos-continued-funding-for-prison-activation-in-omnibus-appropriations-bill-is-more-good-news-for-jobs-economic-development-in-the-quad-cities,"Durbin, Bustos: Continued Funding for Prison Activation in Omnibus Appropriations Bill is More Good News for Jobs, Economic Development in the Quad Cities",2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin, Bustos: Continued Funding for Prison Activation in Omnibus Appropriations Bill is More Good News for Jobs, Economic Development in the Quad Cities [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Cheri Bustos (IL-17) today announced that the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 includes a level of funding for Bureau of Prisons that will allow for continued funding for the activation of the Thomson correctional facility in Thomson, Illinois. Though today’s bill does not detail how this funding will be spent, Durbin and Bustos expressed confidence that the funding for the Thomson facility’s activation remains a top priority for the Obama Administration.  The bill must now be voted on in both chambers and signed into law by President Obama.      “The funding levels in today’s legislation show Congress’ continued commitment to supporting the Bureau of Prisons operations at Thomson Correctional Center,” said Durbin.   “The activation of Thomson prison will not only help relieve overcrowding in America’s prison system, but it will also bring much-needed jobs and new economic opportunities to the surrounding communities.  I will continue to work with Congresswoman Bustos to make certain that future funding is available.  Every day the Obama Administration is making progress toward its goal of opening and operating the prison in a responsible and humane manner that protects the safety and rights of both staff and inmates.”     “By including funding that will allow for more than 200 hard working men and women at Thomson Correctional Center to keep doing their jobs, we're taking on the challenges facing our prison system while focusing on job creation in our community,” said Congresswoman Cheri Bustos. “While the inclusion of this funding is a step in the right direction, the full activation of Thomson will create over 1,000 jobs in our community while generating over $60 million worth of local economic activity, so our work is not finished.” Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-congress-agrees-to-fund-great-lakes-restoration-initiative-at-300-million-1215,Durbin: Congress Agrees to Fund Great Lakes Restoration Initiative at 300 Million,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin: Congress Agrees to Fund Great Lakes Restoration Initiative at 300 Million Funding included in Omnibus Appropriations bill agreement introduced in the House of Representatives late last night [WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced the inclusion of $300 million in funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) in the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 will support ongoing efforts to protect the Great Lakes including: combating invasive species, particularly Asian Carp; reducing and removing pollution, waste run-off and toxic chemicals; and restoring wetlands and other lakefront assets. The bill, which was introduced in the House late last night, must now be voted on by both the House and Senate and signed into law by President Obama. In Illinois, we treasure Lake Michigan from the drinking water it provides to millions of people, to the commerce and tourism it brings to the Chicago area, said Durbin. Todays bill will provide adequate funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to take on projects like the Waukegan Harbor cleanup completed last year and continue working to protect the lakes for generations to come. Initially funded with a $475 million appropriation in Fiscal Year 2010, the GLRI received $300 million in both Fiscal Years 2011, 2012, 2014 and 2015. Sequestration cut funding for the GLRI to $285 million in Fiscal Year 2013. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Durbin has consistently worked to fully fund the GLRI. The GLRI, an inter-agency effort led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, was created in 2009 to support ecological projects in the region. It has invested more than $70 million in 75 Illinois initiatives including the removal of toxic chemicals from Waukegan Harbor, green infrastructure projects like the Millennium Reserve near the Calumet River, and the restoration of 40 acres of land at Northerly Island. The GLRI also provides Illinois with $7 million per year to combat Asian carp through electronic barriers and commercial fishing. Several organizations, municipalities and universities in Illinois have received funding from the GLRI to survey beaches and coordinate electronic recycling efforts. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-defense-appropriations-bill-invests-in-groundbreaking-research-and-protects-illinois-priorities,Durbin: Defense Appropriations Bill Invests in Groundbreaking Research & Protects Illinois Priorities,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin: Defense Appropriations Bill Invests in Groundbreaking Research & Protects Illinois Priorities [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), Vice Chairman of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, announced today that the Fiscal Year (FY) 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Bill which provides $572.8 billion in funding for the military and intelligence community, our national security requirements and the daily needs of over two million active duty and reserve servicemembers funds Illinois defense installations and protects important Illinois priorities. The legislation was completed late last night and is expected to be voted on this week by both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Illinois has long taken a leadership role in our nations defense. Not only does our state claim three of our countrys most important and dynamic defense installations Rock Island Arsenal, Scott Air Force Base, and Naval Station Great Lakes we are also home to 13,000 National Guardsmen who serve throughout Illinois, Durbin said. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, I have worked with my colleagues to maintain our states leadership and to ensure that Illinois servicemembers, their families, and our military and civilian workforce have the support they need and deserve. Stronger Investments in Groundbreaking Research Continuing to invest in basic and advanced research and development is essential to maintaining our technological edge on the battlefield and enhancing our national security. The bill supports these efforts by increasing funding for basic research by 10% over FY2016 requested levels to $2.32 billion. Just as investing in basic and advanced science has paid great dividends, similar investments in medical research and battlefield medicine are saving more lives while improving care options and quality of life after injuries. This knowledge helps better inform treatment for everyone. Todays legislation supports these efforts by increasing funding for medical research at the Department of Defense by 7% over FY2015 enacted levels to $1.935 billion. Federal funding for research and development has been on a downward trend for the past several decades leading to a $1.5 trillion investment deficit that has forced a growing number of Americas best young researchers to take their talents to other industries and other countries. For several years, Senator Durbin has championed increased investment to reverse this trend. Durbin authored The American Innovation Act and The American Cures Act to set steady growth rates in federal appropriations for biomedical and scientific research conducted at the nations premier federal research agencies. Durbin has served on the House and Senate Appropriations Committees for 26 years. He assumed Chairmanship of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee in 2013, taking over from his close friend and former Appropriations Committee Chairman, Daniel Inouye. In 2015, he became the Vice Chairman of the subcommittee after Republicans assumed leadership of the Senate. The FY16 Department of Defense Appropriations Act including funding for the following Illinois defense installations and priorities. Rock Island Arsenal The legislation provides $60 million for Humvee Ambulances and $100 million for Humvee modernization which helps meet a continuing Army need. It also includes $145 million in funding for Industrial Mobilization Capacity (IMC) to help arsenals keep their work rates competitive. This funding helps Rock Island Arsenal and other arsenals compete more effectively for public-private partnerships and other business to help sustain capacity, cost efficiency and technical competence in peacetime, while preserving the ability to provide an effective and timely response to mobilizations, national defense contingency situations and other emergent requirements.Durbin included a similar provision in the FY14 & FY15 Department of Defense Appropriations Bills, which were both funded in the final legislation. The FY16 Department of Defense Appropriations Bill requires the Secretary of the Army to maintain a minimum workload at Rock Island Arsenal (and the arsenals in New York and Arkansas). The legislation also directs the Secretary of Defense to review opportunities within other services and the Defense Logistics Agency to maximize workloads at arsenals. St. Louis Region The Navy has identified a need for additional F/A-18s and E/A-18Gs as part of its FY16 unfunded requests list, as well as an ongoing need for electronic attack capability. To meet that need, the FY16 Department of Defense Appropriations Bill includes $350 million in funding for five F/A-18s and $660 million in funding for seven E/A-18Gs. Production of F/A-18s and E/A-18Gs is based at Boeings St. Louis plant, which employs thousands of workers, including 2,000 from Illinois. In addition, the bill includes an additional $8 million for F-18 generator upgrades. Todays legislation also adds $300 million for R&D for the Navys Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) program, for which Boeing and several other companies are competing. Lovell Federal Health Care Center The legislation approved by the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee today also fully funds President Obamas budget request $121 million through the Department of Defense to extend the DOD-VA pilot program at Lovell Federal Health Care Center for a fifth year. Since 1999, Durbin has played a major role in the development and implementation of the Lovell Federal Health Care Center, which serves as an integrated healthcare facility for both servicemembers and veterans in the North Chicago region. Illinois National Guard (Peoria & Rantoul) The FY15 Department of Defense Appropriations Bill provides an additional $33.2 million to accelerate nationwide engine upgrades and enhancements to C-130H aircraft, eight of which are flown by the 182nd Air National Guard wing based in Peoria, Illinois. These upgrades will reduce the need for repairs to the C-130H aircraft, and will also make them more powerful and energy efficient. The bill also provides an additional $5.207 million in funding for the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program. ChalleNGe academics including Lincoln's ChalleNGe Academy in Rantoul, Illinois give at-risk youths who have dropped out of high school a second chance at completing their education using a military model. Since its founding in 1993, 35 ChalleNGe academies across the country have graduated more than 120,000 participants. Ammunition Production in East Alton and Marion, Illinois The bill maintains funding for numerous ammunition lines including lines produced at Olin Brass in East Alton, Illinois and General Dynamics in Marion, Illinois which are critical to the safety of our troops overseas. Army Corps of Engineers, Champaign The bill supports President Obamas budget request for the Army Corps of Engineers Research Center in Champaign, Illinois. The Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) concentrates on improving the design and effectiveness of Army installations and ranges, making them more resilient, efficient and affordable. CERL research and products also improve environmental sustainability while contributing to other Army Corps Research Center priorities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-omnibus-appropriations-bill-funds-innovation-and-research-at-argonne-national-lab_fermilab,Durbin: Omnibus Appropriations Bill Funds Innovation & Research At Argonne National Lab & Fermilab,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin: Omnibus Appropriations Bill Funds Innovation & Research At Argonne National Lab & Fermilab Funding included in Omnibus Appropriations bill agreement that now goes to the House and Senate for a vote [WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016, which was introduced late last night, preserves essential federal funding for scientific research and development programs that support work at both Argonne National Laboratory and Fermilab. Together, Argonne and Fermilab employ roughly 5,150 Illinoisans. The bill must now be voted on by both chambers of Congress and signed into law by President Obama. Todays legislation protects funding for the ongoing research at both Argonne National Lab and Fermilab, but we cant lose sight of the important role these labs play in keeping the United States competitive in this fast-paced global economy, said Durbin. Investing in their potential for scientific and technological innovation now will put our nation at the forefront of discovery in the future. The Omnibus Appropriations bill includes funding for the following energy research and development accounts that fund projects at Argonne National Laboratory and Fermilab: Argonne National Laboratory Basic Energy Science: $1.8 billion in funding for the Office of Sciences Basic Energy Science account which is Argonne National Laboratorys largest single-source funding source, and accounts for approximately 40 percent of the labs funding; Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage: $24.1 million for the Energy Innovation Hub for Batteries and Energy Storage. In November 2012, Argonne National Laboratory was selected to receive an award of up to $120 million over five years to create the Hub, also known as the Joint Center for Energy Storage Research (JCESR), which is a partnership including University of Chicago, the University of Illinois, the City of Chicago, and private firms and townships in Illinois. The project will establish Illinois as a leader in a multi-billion dollar, developing industry that has potential to stimulate substantial employment and economic growth. Advanced Photon Source Upgrade: $20 million for Advanced Photon Source, a sophisticated x-ray beam that companies, universities, and other research institutions use to conduct break-through research to discover new energy materials, pharmaceuticals, and security infrastructure and transportation. Advanced Scientific Computing Research: $621 million in funding for the Office of Sciences Advanced Scientific Computing Research account, which supports Argonnes National Laboratorys supercomputer initiatives including $77 million for the operations of Argonnes Leadership Computing Facility. Argonne National Laboratory is one of the U.S. Department of Energy's largest research centers. It is also the nation's first national laboratory which houses basic and applied scientific research across a wide spectrum of disciplines, ranging from high-energy physics to climatology and biotechnology. Argonne employs roughly 3,400 people, including scientists and engineers. Fermilab High Energy Physics: $795 million in funding for the Office of Sciences High Energy Physics account which is the primary source of funding for Fermilab, and accounts for approximately 90 percent of the labs funding; Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment: $26 million in funding is included for the Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment, a primary focus at Fermilab.Research in neutrinos represents the next frontier of particle physics. The Muon to Electron Experiment: $40 million in funding is included for the Muon to Electron Experiment which could result in the development of a revolutionary technology in the field. Fermilab is the nations premier high-energy physics laboratory that employs over 1,750 people including physicists, engineers and computer professionals. The laboratory leads U.S. research into the fundamental nature of matter and energy. Fermilab is a world-leading laboratory in the study of neutrinos and very rare processes using existing and upgraded facilities. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbins-cures-act-sets-standard-for-increased-biomedical-research-funding-in-omnibus,Durbin's Cures Act Sets Standard for Increased Biomedical Research Funding in Omnibus,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.15 Durbin's Cures Act Sets Standard for Increased Biomedical Research Funding in Omnibus [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) announced today that the Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 dramatically increases overall funding for breakthrough scientific and biomedical research based on targeted funding levels set by Durbins American Cures Act. In total, the bill includes nearly $42 billion in funding to support the research at the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control, the Department of Defense Health Program, and the Veterans Medical & Prosthetics Research Program. With the support of robust, sustained federal funding, there is no limit to what science can do to prevent, treat and cure diseases like cancer and Alzheimers, Durbin said. The increase in funding for breakthrough research included in this bill is a down payment on that future. If we continue making those investments, well see our nations best and brightest researchers light up the scoreboard. The Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016 increases funding for cutting edge biomedical research conducted at the nations following premier federal research agencies: National Institutes of Health: $32.08 billion in funding; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: $7.23 billion in funding; In 2012, fifty-three percent of all funding for basic research came from the federal government. Yet as a percentage of the total federal budget, the federal government spends two-thirds less on research and development today than it did in 1965. At NIH the foremost biomedical research institute in the world the percentage of research grants that receive funding has declined almost every year for the past 10 years. The lack of funding has led to a $1.5 trillion investment deficit and a growing number of Americas best young researchers are taking their talents to other industries and other countries. For several years, Durbin has championed increased investment to reverse this trend. Durbin authored The American Innovation Act and The American Cures Act to set steady growth rates in federal appropriations for biomedical and scientific research conducted at the nations premier federal research agencies. The American Innovation Act would provide annual budget increases of 5 percent over and above inflation for cutting edge research at five important federal research agencies: The National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy Office of Science, the Department of Defense Science and Technology Programs, the National Institute of Standards and Technology Scientific and Technical Research, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Science Directorate. More information on the bill is available here. TheAmerican Cures Act would set a steady growth rate in federal appropriations for biomedical research conducted at NIH, CDC, DHP, and the Veterans Medical & Prosthetics Research Program. Each year, the bill would increase funding for each agency and program at a rate of GDP-indexed inflation plus 5 percent. This steady, long-term investment would allow the agencies to plan and manage strategic growth while maximizing efficiencies. More information on the bill is available here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-appeals-to-pope-francis-regarding-dominican-cardinals-hostile-statements-against-openly-gay-us-ambassador,Durbin Appeals to Pope Francis Regarding Dominican Cardinal's Hostile Statements Against Openly Gay U.S. Ambassador,2015-12-15,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.15 Durbin Appeals to Pope Francis Regarding Dominican Cardinal's Hostile Statements Against Openly Gay U.S. Ambassador WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today sent a letter to Pope Francis regarding Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez Rodriguez of the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic and the United States Ambassador to that country, Wally Brewster. Cardinal Rodriguez has been openly hostile in public remarks and even helped organize a protest against Ambassador Brewster, who is openly gay. The Churchs teachings on gay marriage are well known, but the Church also teaches us to show tolerance for those with different sexual orientations. The intolerant public statements of Cardinal Rodriguez are inconsistent with that clearly stated value. wrote Durbin. Since your selection as Pope, you have shared a message of compassion, tolerance, and love. I remember distinctly when you spoke to us at the joint session of Congress in September and reminded us of our responsibility to defend and preserve the dignity of your fellow citizens in the tireless and demanding pursuit of the common good. I accept that challenge and I am calling on you to ask nothing less of the hierarchy of the Church. Full text of Durbins letter: His Holiness, Pope Francis Apostolic Palace 00120 Vatican City December 15, 2015 Most Holy Father Pope Francis, Thank you for your recent visit to Washington and address to our Joint Session of Congress. Your visit and message had a profound impact on all of us. I write to you about a matter involving Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez Rodriguez of the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic and the United States Ambassador to that country, Wally Brewster. Ambassador Brewster is from my state of Illinois and he is a personal friend. I supported President Obamas selection of Ambassador Brewster and he was sworn into his position in my Senate office. Ambassador Brewster is gay and was married under the laws of the United States to his partner, Bob Satawake. Even before Ambassador Brewsters arrival in Santo Domingo in 2013, Cardinal Rodriguez launched a personal attack against him with public statements quoted in the popular press. The Cardinal used the hateful slur faggot, which he continues to use to this day. In a recent interview Cardinal Rodriguez again described the Ambassador as a faggot and falsely claimed the Ambassador was setting out to promote faggotry in the Dominican Republic. The Cardinal described the Ambassador as a wife who should stick to housework. In the past the Cardinal and Dominican Church leaders even organized a Black Monday public protest against the Ambassador. Their action led to a counter-demonstration in support of the Ambassador and his partner. Despite these hateful words and personal attacks, Ambassador Brewster has worked to quiet the conflict between Church leaders and himself. His patience and professionalism in light of these mean-spirited attacks by the Cardinal demonstrate his personal commitment to his responsibility of representing the United States of America. The Churchs teachings on gay marriage are well known but the Church also teaches us to show tolerance for those with different sexual orientations. The intolerant public statements of Cardinal Rodriguez are inconsistent with that clearly stated value. Since your selection as Pope, you have shared a message of compassion, tolerance, and love. I remember distinctly when you spoke to us at the joint session of Congress in September and reminded us of our responsibility to defend and preserve the dignity of your fellow citizens in the tireless and demanding pursuit of the common good. I accept that challenge and I am calling on you to ask nothing less of the hierarchy of the Church. Sincerely, RICHARD J. DURBIN United States Senator Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-statement-on-paris-climate-summit-agreement,Rush Statement on Paris Climate Summit Agreement,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) released the following statement after delegates to the COP21 Paris Climate Summit announced a final agreement to limit carbon pollution and address the climate crisis: I commend President Obama, President Hollande, Secretary Kerry and the entire U.N. delegation on this historic international climate change agreement. The world has come together to put a halt to increasing global emissions and address the real effects of climate change. This will inspire future generations to care for our planet collectively and work cohesively with other nations. Cutting carbon pollution means bringing cleaner, more reliable energy. This can mean not only cutting pollution, but also saving families money on their energy bills. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-anti-muslim-bigotry-has-no-place-in-america,Durbin: Anti-Muslim Bigotry Has No Place in America,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.15 Durbin: Anti-Muslim Bigotry Has No Place in America [WASHINGTON, D.C.] After attending an interfaith peace vigil last night at the Islamic Society of Springfield, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate Floor today to commend Springfields faith and community leaders for joining together to speak out against inflammatory rhetoric directed at refugees and Muslims. In his remarks, Durbin also condemned a recent increase in hate crimes and other anti-Muslim bigotry and praised his Senate colleague, U.S. Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) for sharing a similar message of tolerance in his home state over the weekend. Last night in Springfield, Illinois a typical Midwestern American city there was a gathering of people from all across the city at 5:30 on a Sunday night. It was a gathering at the Islamic Society of Springfield, Durbin said. There was standing and sitting room only. It was a huge outpouring of support for our Muslim brothers and sisters in the Springfield community. There were representatives of virtually every religion present and many spoke. Rabbis, ministers, Catholic nuns and even a few elected officials. Trying let our friends know in the Muslim community that despite some of the things that have been said over the last few weeks by presidential candidates we, in fact, embrace them as part of the American family. Video of Durbins remarks is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks is available here. Footage of Durbins floor remarks is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-failed-westwood-college-should-not-be-allowed-to-sell-campuses-to-other-for-profit-college-systems-under-investigation,Durbin: Failed Westwood College Should Not Be Allowed to Sell Campuses to Other For-Profit College Systems Under Investigation,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.15 Durbin: Failed Westwood College Should Not Be Allowed to Sell Campuses to Other For-Profit College Systems Under Investigation [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today called on the Department of Education to prevent failed Westwood College campuses including four in Illinois from being sold to other for-profit college systems that are under investigation by local, state or federal agencies. Recently, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan settled a lawsuit with the company for $15 million after finding that Westwood was lying to students about its criminal justice program. As I understand it, Westwood will be teaching out and ending operations altogether at many of these campuses, including the four it operates in my home state of Illinois. At the same time, the company may be seeking to sell other campuses, which the Department would ultimately have to approve, Durbin wrote. With respect to the sale of Corinthian campuses, you assured me in writing that the Department will not approve a sale to another entity if that entity is currently under State and/or Federal investigation Today, I ask you to make that same commitment with respect to the potential sale of brands or campuses owned by Alta. The Department of Education should not allow these students to be put in jeopardy again. December 14, 2015 The Honorable Ted Mitchell Under Secretary U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202 Dear Under Secretary Mitchell: I write today about the future of Westwood College and ask the Department of Education to take steps to protect students as the school ends operations. Westwood College, owned by Alta College, Incorporated, has been one of the most notorious bad actors in the for-profit college industry. The Colorado Attorney General found that Westwood misled prospective students through deceptive advertising. Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan recently settled a lawsuit with the company for $15 million. Attorney General Madigan found that Westwood was lying to students about their criminal justice program claiming students would be able to get good jobs, when in reality many employers did not recognize the degree. On November 12, Alta announced it was suspending enrollment at its Westwood College campuses nationwide. As I understand it, Westwood will be teaching out and ending operations altogether at many of these campuses, including the four it operates in my home state of Illinois. At the same time, the company may be seeking to sell other campuses, which the Department would ultimately have to approve. In August 2014, with respect to the sale of Corinthian campuses, you assured me in writing that the Department will not approve a sale to another entity if that entity is currently under State and/or Federal investigation Today, I ask you to make that same commitment with respect to the potential sale of brands or campuses owned by Alta. The Department of Education should not allow these students to be put in jeopardy again. I also ask the Department to require, as a condition of approving any sale of Altas Westwood or other campuses, that the new owner refrain from using in its enrollment agreements any mandatory arbitration clauses or other contractual barriers to students making claims against a school in a court of law. This will ensure that students can hold institutions directly accountable for any alleged misconduct, potentially obviating the need for victimized students to seek relief from the Department and the taxpayers. Thank you for your attention to this issue. I appreciate your prompt reply. Sincerely, Richard J. Durbin United States Senator Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-leads-illinois-members-in-registering-concern-with-oversight-agency-over-proposed-freight-merger,Durbin Leads Illinois Members in Registering Concern with Oversight Agency Over Proposed Freight Merger,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.15 Durbin Leads Illinois Members in Registering Concern with Oversight Agency Over Proposed Freight Merger Members write to STB regarding the proposed CP-NS mergers potential impact on Chicago, Illinois rail network [WASHINGTON, D.C.] In response to a proposed merger between two of Illinois rail operators Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) and Norfolk Southern Corporation (NS) U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) led a letter to the Surface Transportation Board urging the agency to carefully consider the potential negative impact of the proposal on Illinois freight network. In their letter, the Members requested careful review of the possible effects of CPs proposed acquisition of NS on Illinois communities and businesses, particularly those in and around Chicago. We are writing to you regarding Canadian Pacific Railways proposal to acquire Norfolk Southern Corporation, a merger that could have significant implications to the freight network in Illinois and this country, the Members wrote. We are concerned about the effects of the proposed CP-NS merger on Chicago. We urge you to carefully review any plans submitted to the STB, and consider the potential negative impact of the proposal with respect to building a more efficient freight network in Chicago and comprehensively examine the economic effects of such a consolidation on local industries and jobs in the Chicago region. Todays letter was signed by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Representative Dan Lipinski (D-IL), U.S. Representative Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Representative Danny Davis (D-IL), U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL), U.S. Representative Bobby Rush (D-IL), U.S. Representative Cheri Bustos (D-IL), U.S. Representative Luis Gutirrez (D-IL), U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Bill Foster (D-IL). The full text of todays letter is available below. December 14, 2015 The Honorable Daniel R. Elliott III Chairman United States Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 The Honorable Ann D. Begeman Vice Chairman United States Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 The Honorable Deb Miller United States Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Dear Chairman Elliott and Surface Transportation Board Members: We are writing to you regarding Canadian Pacific Railways (CP) proposal to acquire Norfolk Southern Corporation (NS), a merger that could have significant implications to the freight network in Illinois and this country. As the Surface Transportation Board (STB) knows, Illinois is home to all seven Class I railroads and has the second highest rate of employment in the rail industry nationally, with over 17,000 railroad employees and over 32,000 retirees, spouses, and survivors dependent on a robust and stable rail industry. The State of Illinois relies on a strong freight rail industry to drive not only our state economy but also the economy of the United States. Congress has provided the STB with the power to approve or disapprove mergers and acquisitions in the railroad industry. In approving a merger, the STB must assess, among other things, whether the proposed merger will serve the public interest, and whether it will benefit or harm competition among rail carriers. These are complicated questions that take time to resolve. To that end, we are concerned about the effects of the proposed CP-NS merger on Chicago. There are many questions about the details of CPs proposal as it relates to the public interest. Canadian Pacific has not detailed how it may route traffic through Chicago or other regions. First, we urge you to carefully review any plans submitted to the STB, and consider the potential negative impact of the proposal with respect to building a more efficient freight network in Chicago. If new routes are planned, it is critical that STB carefully and transparently examine the effect on communities along those new routes. Second, the STB should consider the economic impact on shipping in Illinois and the United States. Will the merger take business away from Illinois and the United States by diverting business to Canada? Third, CP is targeting $1.8 billion of synergies that would be achieved through headcount, locomotive fleet, a lower tax rate, and operations rationalization. We urge the STB to review and comprehensively examine the economic effects of such a consolidation on local industries and jobs in the Chicago region. If CP is proposing to cut costs on the backs of Illinois workers, the STB has a responsibility to evaluate and publicly disclose the details of such a proposal. During the STBs lengthy review process, it is critical that the STB ensure the independence of the two railroads contemplating a merger. In that regard, we have deep concern over public comments made by the CEO of CP, expressing his intent to immediately assume control of NS by taking over as the CEO of NS during the pendency of the STBs review process as a voting trust. It is directly contrary to the prohibition on unlawful control set forth in the STBs regulations and enshrined in federal law. Congress has given the STB the power to keep the best interest of consumers in mind when considering proposed mergers, especially an acquisition of this scale. Any attempt to circumvent the role of the STB and threaten the sovereignty of a competing railroad should be taken seriously. Thank you for your careful review of this matter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-pays-tribute-to-fallen-chicago-firefighter-daniel-capuano-on-senate-floor,"Durbin Pays Tribute to Fallen Chicago Firefighter, Daniel Capuano, On Senate Floor",2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.15 Durbin Pays Tribute to Fallen Chicago Firefighter, Daniel Capuano, On Senate Floor [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate Floor today to honor the service and sacrifice of Chicago Firefighter Daniel Capuano, who died early this morning in a warehouse fire on the South Side of Chicago. Daniel Capuano went to work this morning, just like he has done every day for the past fifteen years ready to fight fires and save lives. Not many people can say theyve woken up every day ready to sacrifice their life to protect their community. But this morning, Daniel Capuano did just that, Durbin said. Daniels death is a devastating loss and serves as a reminder of the risks that our firefighters and first responders take every day for the livelihood of others. My condolences and prayers are with Daniels wife Julie; his three children Nicholas, Andrew, and Amanda; and his fellow firefighters. Daniel, youre a hero to me and to the people of Chicago and Illinois. There are no words to truly describe the sorrow for your loss. Video of Durbins remarks is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks is available here. Footage of Durbins floor remarks is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Durbins remarks as prepared for delivery are available below: Remarks of U.S. Senator Dick Durbin Tribute to Chicago Firefighter Daniel Capuano December 14, 2015 It is with a heavy heart that I rise today to speak about the loss of one of the bravest men in the Chicago Fire Department, Daniel Capuano. Daniel Capuano went to work this morning, just like he has done every day for the past fifteen years ready to fight fires and save lives. Not many people can say theyve woken up every day ready to sacrifice their life to protect their community. But this morning, Daniel Capuano did just that. At 2:40am today, Daniel Capuano and his fellow firefighters contacted about a warehouse fire on the 9200-block of South Baltimore Avenue on the South side of Chicago. Daniel and the other firefighters were immediately dispatched to the scene to respond to the situation. The warehouse was undergoing construction and because of that, there were reports of holes in the floors of the building. When they got there, they saw billowing smoke coming out of the vacant three-story warehouse. Firefighter Capuano and his team moved cautiously through the second floor of the warehouse in search for the cause of the fire. But the heavy, thick smoke made it nearly impossible to see causing Capuano to fall through an elevator shaft from the second floor of the building to the basement. His fellow firefighters were able to find him right way and get him on an ambulance to a nearby hospital. But sadly, it was too late. By the time he arrived he was already in serious condition. And at 4:25am this morning, Daniel Capuano was pronounced dead from trauma. It is times like these that we are reminded of just how dangerous the job that these men and women do every day really is. Daniel Capuano spent his entire career putting the safety of his community before his own. For fifteen years, he served the Chicago Fire Department combating and eliminating fires while pulling others to safety. And before that, he served as a firefighter in Evergreen Park, a southwest suburb of Chicago. Daniel is a true hero who made the ultimate sacrifice to make the residents of his community and neighborhood safe. Daniels death is a devastating loss and serves as a reminder of the risks that our firefighters and first responders take every day for the livelihood of others. My condolences and prayers are with Daniels wife Julie; his three children Nicholas, Andrew, and Amanda; and his fellow firefighters. Daniel, you are a hero to me and to the people of Illinois. There are no words to truly describe the sorrow for your loss, and I cannot thank you enough for your commitment to our people.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-historic-paris-climate-agreement,Durbin Statement on Historic Paris Climate Agreement,2015-12-13,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.15 Durbin Statement on Historic Paris Climate Agreement SPRINGFIELDU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement after the President announced that a historic deal to combat climate change had been reached tonight in Paris: This is a momentous agreement for all of us here on planet Earth, but even more importantly for our children and our childrens children. The threats posed by climate change have been linked to drought, food shortages, severe and dangerous storms, poverty, and even terrorism. Committing to reducing carbon emissions isnt just a environmental or humanitarian imperativeits a national security imperative too. I commend our U.S. negotiators and representatives from all countries who came together to achieve this landmark agreement. This is a big step toward making our world a better place. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-in-support-of-cop21-agreement,Quigley Statement in Support of COP21 Agreement,2015-12-12,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHICAGO Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, released the following statement in response to the Paris Conference of Parties (COP21) Agreement: Today marks a historic step in the global fight against climate change. For the first time, we have an ambitious, durable climate regime that applies to all countries, focuses both on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building resilience, includes strong accountability measures, and ensures ongoing financial and technical assistance to those countries in need. I applaud all of those involved in the negotiation process, especially President Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry, and Todd Stern, lead negotiator for the U.S., for their courage and vision. Under this agreement, all countries will communicate their climate and targets every five years, ensuring progress and accountability. Each target will be expected to go further than the last, reflecting the highest possible goals for each country. It also sets a goal of keeping warming well below two degrees Celsius and sets an ambitious vision to go even further than that in the future. All 196 parties from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) worked together to make an agreement that is fit for 2020 and beyond, serving not just this generation but also countless generations to come. We recognize that this deal is not a silver-bullet solution to what is a massive global challenge, but we have put ourselves on the right path with an agreement that is forward-looking, dynamic, and durable. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-chaffetz-send-bipartisan-letter-urging-speaker-ryan-to-restore,"Foster, Chaffetz Send Bipartisan Letter Urging Speaker Ryan to Restore Office of Technology Assessment",2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Representatives Bill Foster (IL-11), Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) and 13 Members of Congress sent a bipartisan letter to Speaker Ryan asking for his support for the Office of Technology Assessment (OTA). Congress created the OTA in 1972 to provide Congress with nonpartisan analysis of scientific and technical issues, but closed when it was defunded in 1995. A copy of the letter is available here. So much of what we consider before Congress today has complex, technical components that deserve complex, technical analyses. We may have deep philosophical differences over issues, and that debate is important, but if were not starting on sound technical and scientific footing, then its all just tilting at windmills. Restoring the Office of Technology Assessment will bring a much needed dose of logic and reason to Congress, said Foster. The letter says: The OTA's 24-year body of work encompasses some 750 reports and assessments on issues as far ranging as arms control to shale technologies to bioterrorism. These reports contributed to the security and economic growth of our nation by providing timely and forward-looking analysis of technological threats and opportunities. The expertise provided by the OTA saved taxpayers billions of dollars by identifying cost-effective areas for future investment, and avoiding wasted money on technologies and policies that did not and could not work. As technology continues to advance and budgets continue to shrink, this kind of trustworthy, non-partisan analysis is no less necessary today than when the OTA was first started 43 years ago. As technology continues to develop and spread at an increasingly rapid pace and our partisan divide seems to grow deeper, Congress needs this now more than ever. We urge you to support funding to reinstate Office of Technology Assessment to once again give legislators access to the non-partisan technical expertise we need to make prudent policy decisions. The bipartisan letter was signed by 15 Members of Congress, including: Jason Chaffetz (R-UT), John Conyers (D-MI), Jim Costa (D-CA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Donna F. Edwards (D-MD), Elizabeth Esty (D-CT), Blake Farenthold (R-TX), Alan Grayson (D-FL), Mike Honda (D-CA), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Alan Lowenthal (D-CA), Jim McDermott (D-WA), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Mark Takano (D-CA). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-calls-on-gov-rauner-to-take-state-action-to-close-loophole-that-allows-suspected-terrorists-to-buy-guns,Durbin Calls on Gov. Rauner to Take State Action to Close Loophole That Allows Suspected Terrorists to Buy Guns,2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.15 Durbin Calls on Gov. Rauner to Take State Action to Close Loophole That Allows Suspected Terrorists to Buy Guns SPRINGFIELDU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today sent a letter calling on Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner to take action at the state level to close a dangerous loophole in law that allows suspected terrorists to purchase guns in Illinois: The horrific terror attacks in Paris, Colorado Springs, and San Bernardino have given new urgency to the need to close dangerous loopholes in our laws that allow would-be terrorists to buy guns. The highest priority for both the Governor and I is to keep Illinoisans safe, but Republicans in Congress continue to block even the most common sense anti-terror measures. Gun owners and non-gun owners alike can agree that keeping guns out of the hands of suspected terrorists is the right thing to do. I call on Governor Rauner to work with our state legislature to close this loophole. Americas response to these terror attacks should be to take the fight to ISIS abroad and strengthen our national security at home, not go after the children and families fleeing ISIS terrorism themselves. I wont rest until we bring some sanity back to our federal gun laws, but Governor Rauner is in a position to take swift action to protect lives in our state. I hope he will. Yesterday, Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy announced that would sign a first-in-the-nation executive order, pending federal approval,to ban those on government watch lists from buying guns in his state. Full text of Durbins letter to Governor Rauner: December 11, 2015 The Honorable Bruce Rauner Office of the Governor 207 State House Springfield, IL 62706 Dear Governor Rauner, The recent attacks in Paris, Colorado Springs and San Bernardino have highlighted the vulnerability of our communities to acts of terror perpetrated with firearms. These mass killings have given new urgency to the need to close dangerous loopholes in our laws that allow known or suspected terrorists to buy guns. I am working to pass legislation to close this terror gap on a federal level, but prompt action should also be taken in Illinois to prevent known or suspected terrorists from using a FOID (Firearm Owners Identification) card to buy guns. I urge you to do all within your power to close the terror gap on the state level in Illinois. Gun owners and non-gun owners alike agree that keeping guns out of the hands of known and suspected terrorists is common sense. This can also be done consistent with the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions and our commitment to due process. Federal terror gap legislation contains significant procedural protections to ensure that any person mistakenly included on a prohibited gun buyer list can challenge that listing both administratively and in court and be removed from the list. With these protections in place, a person mistakenly included on the list would only experience the temporary inconvenience of a delay in buying a gun while it is confirmed that the person is not involved in terrorist activity. Similar protections can be applied on the state level. You and I agree on the need to keep Illinoisans safe from acts of terror, and I hope we can work to swiftly close the terror gap on both the state and federal levels. Addressing this vulnerability will make our communities safer. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, RICHARD J. DURBIN United States Senator Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-meets-with-local-education-leaders-to-discuss-overhaul-of-no-child-left-behind,Durbin Meets with Local Education Leaders to Discuss Overhaul of No Child Left Behind,2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.15 Durbin Meets with Local Education Leaders to Discuss Overhaul of No Child Left Behind New law reauthorizes the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, provides greater flexibility to states, invests in early childhood education SPRINGFIELD, IL A day after President Obama signed the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with Springfield Public Schools Superintendent Jennifer Gill, representatives from the Illinois Education Association and Illinois Federation of Teachers, and other educators to discuss the new education law that will overhaul No Child Left Behind. The Every Student Succeeds Act provides a more flexible approach to student testing and school accountability. This bill is more directly tied to the future prosperity of the United States than virtually any other issue we face here in Congress. It will decide whether our children and grandchildren receive the quality education they deserve from preschool to high school and beyond, said Durbin. The Every Student Succeeds Act makes important improvements to our elementary and secondary education system. I was pleased to vote in favor of a bill to give parents, teachers, and principals in Springfield and across Illinois a replacement to No Child Left Behind. The Every Student Succeeds Act gives states greater flexibility in developing plans that ensure all students graduate from high school prepared for postsecondary education or the workforce. States are required to set academic standards, measure achievement, and hold themselves accountable, but there are important federal guard rails to protect minorities and underperforming students. The law will preserve annual assessments but reduce the reliance on the often ineffective and high-stakes testing. Schools that are performing in the bottom 5%, according to a states accountability system, and schools with less than 67% of their students graduating, are required to make changes designed to improve performance, but those changes will be up to the states and districts to decide. The Every Student Succeeds Act also includes a grant program to provide funding for states to improve coordination, quality, and access for early childhood education which is critical to making sure every child has a strong start in life. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-approves-bill-to-child-proof-liquid-nicotine-bottles,Senate Approves Bill to Child-Proof Liquid Nicotine Bottles,2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.15 Senate Approves Bill to Child-Proof Liquid Nicotine Bottles Legislation proposed after spike in poisoning reports [WASHINGON, D.C.] The Senate last night approved a measure to require manufacturers to put child-proof caps on the small bottles of liquid nicotine available for purchase in stores across the country. Its the first time the Senate has taken up and passed a bill aimed at regulating liquid nicotine used in e-cigarettes and other vaping devices. There is a word for the toxic candy-flavored liquids found in electronic cigarettes: poison. Just this week, a study found that a chemical found in many e-cigarettes is linked to the devastating respiratory disease known as popcorn lung. Protecting our nations children from exposure to poison is basic common sense, especially when it can have dangerous and fatal consequences like liquid nicotine, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) said. Just a small amount of this stuff can seriously injure or even kill a small child, said U.S. Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), who authored the legislation. Making these bottles child-proof is just common sense. This legislation would require child-resistant packaging for any liquid nicotine vial sold in the United States. Durbin and Nelson first introduced the bill last year after increased reports of children falling ill, and in at least one case, dying from liquid nicotine poisoning. It was approved by the Senate Commerce Committee, but never made it to the full Senate for a vote. The lawmakers introduced it again this year, vowing to push even harder for its passage. Liquid nicotine, sold in concentrated form for use in e-cigarettes, often comes in brightly-colored, easy-to-open vials with enticing flavors such as Fruity Loops, Peppermint Patty, and Gummi Bear. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, a single teaspoon of this product could kill a small child. Calls to poison control centers for liquid nicotine exposure have spiked in recent years, according to the AAPCC, going up from just one call per month in September 2010 to 318 calls per month in March of this year. Many of these calls involved children five years old or younger The Senate approved the bill by unanimous consent late yesterday. It now goes to the House for final passage. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-rohrabacher-send-bipartisan-letter-urging-girl-scouts-to-support,"Foster, Rohrabacher Send Bipartisan Letter Urging Girl Scouts To Support STEM",2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Representatives Bill Foster (D-IL) and Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA) sent a bipartisan letter highlighting efforts to encourage girls to develop skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Recently, theGirl Scouts of Orange County STEM Consortiumcreated the My STEM Life badge to encourage girls to consider careers in STEM. Foster, Rohrabacher and others wrote to Girl Scouts CEO Anna Maria Chvez urging the Scouts to adopt the badge nationally. Its wonderful to see this effort to encourage girls to consider STEM careers, said Foster. As a father, I encouraged my daughter to explore STEM subjects, and will never forget the first time she used a vertical milling machine to engineer her own creation. We all need to do more to encourage girls to explore STEM and remind them that their possibilities are limitless. Girls are not seeing a long term path in STEM, yet projections indicate that STEM jobs will grow 17% by 2018, compared with less than 10% growth for non-STEM jobs. We need more women entering STEM professions so we can fill key positions and maintain global competitiveness. Studies show that girls lose or gain interest, skill and confidence in STEM by eighth grade, so its critical that we reach them early. Girl Scouts of Orange Countys new My STEM Life badge introduces middle school girls to STEM in engaging ways they relate to and connects them to dynamic STEM role models, inspiring them to pursue their STEM education, said Nancy Nygren, CEO, Girl Scouts of Orange County. The group encouraged the Girl Scouts to adopt the My STEM Life badge nationally, saying: Girl Scouts of the USA has a long and proud legacy of empowering girls to become effective leaders in their families and communities. With badges in everything from first aid to entrepreneurship and even public policy, we hope that Girl Scout troops around the country will also encourage girls to pursue their interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) by creating a badge like the My STEM Life badge. Although women fill close to half of all jobs in the U.S. economy, we know they fill less than 25 percent of the jobs in STEM fields. Encouraging girls to consider pursuing a career in STEM will only not benefit those girls personally and professionally, it will also help move our economy forward as they use their skills to cure diseases, explain the mysteries of the universe, or keep our country safe. Full text of the letter is available here. The letter was signed by Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX), Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), as well as Representatives Cheri Bustos (D-IL), Don Beyer (D-VA), Katherine Clark (D-MA), Barbara Comstock (R-VA), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Bob Dold (R-IL), Donna F. Edwards (D-MD), Alan Grayson (D-FL), Michael M. Honda (D-CA), Randy Hultgren (R-IL), Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY), Paul Tonko (D-NY), and Mimi Walters (R-CA). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-supports-labor-strike-in-alsip,Rush Supports Labor Strike in Alsip,2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) announced his strong support for Teamsters Local 727 in their unfair labor practice strike against Coca-Cola Refreshments in Niles, IL and at the Alsip, IL facility in his congressional district. The full text of the letter is below:",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/congressional-hispanic-caucus-evenwel-v-abbott,Congressional Hispanic Caucus on Evenwel v. Abbott,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHC ON EVENWEL V. ABBOTT Washington, D.C. Today, Congressional Hispanic Caucus Members released the following statements on the Evenwel v. Abbott. The Supreme Court heard oral arguments for the case today and CHC Members led a press conference outside the Court earlier this morning. Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Congressman Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), and Thomas Saenz from the Mexican American Legal Defense Fund (MALDEF) spoke on the devastating effects the case would have on the Latino community. In Evenwel v. Abbott, the Supreme Court will determine whether voting districts should continue to be drawn by using census population data, which include noncitizen immigrants, or whether the system should be changed to count only citizens eligible to vote, as conservative challengers are seeking. The case would have enormous implications for the Latino community and Latino representatives at every level of government. CHC Chairwoman Linda T. Snchez: Evenwel v. Abbott is an attempt to erase the Latino community off the map. At 55%, Latinos stand to be the most affected ironically at a time when our community is growing. Less representation would mean fewer resources for already marginalized communities. The case before us goes against the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution and simply doesnt make sense. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus will not stand for these radical attempts to undermine Latinos. Congressman Joaquin Castro: This case is an affront to our democracy. It sends a message to millions of Americans in this country that they dont count. We should encourage folks to participate in the electoral process, not strip them of their representation. Those pushing this case support changes that contradict the Constitution and the spirit of our democratic process. Everyone counts in this nation, and our election laws should reflect that. Congressman Ruben Gallego: This case was brought up because the American electorate is changing, and a growing Latino population is changing what we know about American politics. This case is an attempt by those who feel threatened to erase the Latino community off the map and it puts our communitys policy priorities at risk. The concept of one-man, one-vote is an American ideal that has been enshrined now for nearly 150 years. For the Supreme Court or any group to arbitrarily try to wipe that away overnight goes against the core tenants of American democracy. Congressman Jos Serrano: Evenwel vs. Abbott seeks to make invisible millions of individuals in the legislative redistricting and democratic process including taxpayers that contribute to our economy, young people that represent our future generations, and minorities that are an integral part of our communities. Every person living in America deserves to be counted, to be represented, and to be served in our democracy, even if they are not eligible and registered to vote. The court should uphold these principles, and reject arguments that would have a devastating effect on the Latino community after all the progress we have made in recent years. Congressman Luis Gutirrez: Our political system should respond to the many, not the few. The principle of one person, one vote has served this country well and in the modern era, we should not make fundamental political and governance decisions based on race, ethnicity, age, or immigration status. It is simply the wrong direction to go. Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard: If the Supreme Court rules broadly for the plaintiff in Evenwel v. Abbott, it would have devastating effects for Latino communities across the country, especially in my home state of California. My Los Angeles-area district has the largest percentage of Latinos in the country, and is already in dire need of more federal resources. If voter registration were used to redraw district lines, Californias 40th District would be further stretched to include an additional 150,000 people at the minimum. For too many districts, the precedent set by the Evenwel v. Abbott decision has the potential to seriously set back our political systems ability to represent all members of our society. Congresswoman Nydia M. Velzquez: Non-voters like children have a vital stake in how their government is run, but this case would essentially tell them their voices do not matter and they do not count. The Court should reject this brazen effort to undo fifty years of progress toward equality at the ballot box. Congressman Ral M. Grijalva: American democracy belongs to everyone who calls this country home. Drawing lines for elected office based upon voter participation is a blatant and shameful attempt to disenfranchise and deny representation within our communities. Our nation learned first-hand that democracy for some is not democracy at all. The Evenwel case is an attempt to repeat that mistake, and I urge the Supreme Court to reject it outright. Congressman Ben Ray Lujn: This case is an attempt to manipulate the redistricting process by denying representation to millions of Americans. Determining electoral districts on the basis of registered voters rather than the total population excludes non-voters, including children, and undermines our commitment to equal treatment for all people. Every person deserves to be represented by their elected leaders. CHC press conference outside the Supreme Court this morning. From left to right: MALDEFs Thomas Saenz, Congressman Ruben Gallego, and Congressman Joaquin Castro. #### The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), founded in December 1976, is organized as a Congressional Member organization, governed under the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives. The CHC is dedicated to voicing and advancing, through the legislative process, issues affecting Hispanics in the United States, Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/congressional-immigration-leaders-and-children-call-ending-family-detention-%E2%80%9C-wish,Congressional Immigration Leaders and Children Call for Ending Family Detention as A Wish for the Holidays,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressional Immigration Leaders and Children Call for Ending Family Detention as A Wish for the Holidays Capitol Hill Press Conference Exhibited Childrens Letters to Families in ICE Custody Washington, DC This afternoon, the Congressional Womens Working Group on Immigration Reform and We Belong Together were joined by children at a Capitol Hill press conference to call for an end to Americas family detention system. Nine members of Congress spoke out about the need to end family detention, including Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), chair of the Congressional Womens Working Group on Immigration Reform; Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-19); Congressman Luis Gutirrez (IL-04); Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01); Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06); Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35); Congresswoman Linda Snchez (CA-38); Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01); and Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27). The press conference also featured Caritza and Alejandro, a mother and her five-year-old son who were previously held at the Dilley detention facility in Texas. They described the reasons for fleeing their home countryand their experience in detention. In addition, the event displayed enlargements of handwritten letters that elementary school-aged children have written for delivery to children who will spend this holiday season inside detention facilities. The childrens letters, which are part of We Belong Togethers A Wish for the Holidays letter-writing campaign, express the childrens holiday wish that the families in detention be released. Noe, Fiorella, and Yazareth, children who wrote letters to families in detention, also appeared at the press conference, and Noe and Fiorella read their letters aloud. Other speakers included Sameera Hafiz, policy director at We Belong Together, and Wendy Cervantes, vice president of immigration and child rights at First Focus, a childrens advocacy organization. While some changes have been made to improve conditions at these centers and reduce the length of detention, the fact is they remain jail-like settings, said Congresswoman Roybal-Allard. Detention of children is cruel and misguided, and the suffering and negative impact on these young developing minds is unacceptable. I echo the wish of the children here today to call for an end to family detention. We are a country of laws and a country of compassion. And it is that compassion that must be reflected in how we treat immigrant women and children who have sacrificed so much to escape violence and abuse. I will continue to fight with my colleagues for accountability in detention and for swift processing of families through Immigration and Customs Enforcement so these women and children can be placed in less restrictive settings as they await the adjudication of their cases. We have made some progress over the past couple of years, but we have not achieved our goal of stopping the practice of holding moms and kids in detention when there are more efficient, cost-effective, and humane ways to handle them, said Congressman Gutirrez. People seeking asylum, fleeing violence in Central America or fleeing systematic oppression anywhere in the world, we are fighting for the government to treat families and moms and children with respect, to use tax-money as efficiently as possible, and to end the practice of family detention. Its shameful that children will be spending the holidays in detention centers across the United States. I urge us all to remember the harrowing journey many took to come here seeking safety and pray that we stop tearing families apart, said Congresswoman DelBene. This is just one facet of our deeply flawed and broken immigration system that Congress has a moral obligation to address. This is an issue that is close to my heart, said Congresswoman Meng. I represent parts of Queens, NY and more than half of my constituents are foreign-born. Ive had parents come and talk to me about the difficulties of separation when their kids are in other countries. Ive had children whose parents are held in detention speak of their anguish over their fear of never seeing their loved ones again. Families belong together. We are here today because we want the release of mothers and their children from detention facilities. Our wish for the Holidays is for the Administration to release mothers and children from detention. It is the right thing to do. As a mother and as an immigrant who came to this country as a child, I join my colleagues in urging the administration to put an end to family detention, said Congresswoman Torres. We have more cost-effective and humane tools at our disposal to release families while ensuring they continue through the legal process. Its time to put an end to family detention for good. I cannot accept that this country puts innocent women and children into detention facilities that resemble the cruelty of Japanese incarceration, said Congresswoman Chu. And worse, as a psychologist, I know that any amount of time in detention risks harming childrens development and retraumatizing women fleeing violence. I was so moved to hear these childrens stories today and will not forget their pleas as we continue our fight to end family detention once and for all. There are so many organizations that are fighting to close these detention centers and I just ask God that they achieve that, said Caritza, the mother detained with her five-year-old son at Dilley. The kids hate to be locked up. My son would ask, When can we leave? When can we leave? The bottom line is that we know family detention is a dangerous policy that directly harms children. The research consistently shows that children who are detained even for a short period of time face risks to their overall development, including long-term psychological trauma and declining health, said Ms. Cervantes. No child should have to spend the holidays behind bars, and we urge the Administration to grant the wish of every child in who wrote a letter as part of this campaign by ending family detention once and for all. I remain concerned about the troublesome confinement conditions, the breaches of due process and the serious physical and mental health costs imposed on women and their children during their time in these family detention centers. These practices are simply inconsistent with our nations values and our laws, said Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13). As we work to end these detentions, Congress must go even further. We must pass bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform to fix our broken system that cruelly tears families apart. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/reps-kelly-and-guti%C3%A9rrez-invite-attorney-general-lynch-chicago-part-cpd-investigation,Reps. Kelly and Gutirrez Invite Attorney General Lynch to Chicago as Part of CPD Investigation,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reps. Kelly and Gutirrez Invite Attorney GeneralLynch to Chicago as Part of CPD Investigation We are certain that this investigation will be vital to rebuilding trust and fosteringsafetyand the people of Chicago should partake in this process. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 9, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Representative Robin Kelly and Representative Luis V. Gutirrez sent a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch inviting her to visit Chicago as part of the investigation she has launched into the patterns and practices of the Chicago Police Department (CPD) in the wake of Laquan McDonalds murder by a Chicago police officer. They asked that the Attorney General meet with constituents and talk to stakeholders in each Congressional District in the City. The AG ought to visit personally and see the neighborhoods and talk with people in all of Chicagos diverse communities because we all interact with police and need to know they can be trusted, Rep. Gutirrez said. Ultimately, this is about building confidence in the police and getting them to work with the communities they protect and patrol. A visit from the Attorney General to meet with key stakeholders and constituents will signal to Chicagoans that the Department of Justice is making progress, Congresswoman Kelly said. People on the streets need to see that something is being done to help rebuild trust in law enforcement. When he was Attorney General, Eric Holder visited Ferguson, Missouri as part of his inquiry into civil rights, police practices, and local government issues after Michael Brown was killed by local police. The two Congressional Representatives hope Attorney General Lynch will make a similar visit to Chicago to hear directly from Chicagoans and examine issues personally. Rep. Kelly stated, Loretta Lynch has spent her entire professional life diligently working to bridge the divide between law enforcement and the communities they serve. I have full confidence that Attorney General Lynch actively leading the charge will allow for a robust investigation that is restorative for all of Chicago. I am confident the Attorney General and her staff are going to conduct a thorough and fair investigation, Rep. Gutirrez said, but one important step towards healing and restoring trust will be her personal involvement. Both Members of Congress pledged to cooperate with and monitor the Attorney Generals investigation and help her in any way possible. A copy of the letter from Reps. Kelly and Gutirrez to Attorney General Lynch is here: LINK (pdf). # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=2866,Rep. Lipinski Introduces Legislation to Protect Airline Passengers,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) has introduced the Comfortable and Fair Flights Act of 2015 to ensure that airline passengers have some basic rights and protections when traveling on commercial airlines. More and more, when airline passengers get on a flight they expect to suffer from uncomfortable conditions; as a frequent flyer I understand this, said Rep. Lipinski. One thing they should never have to worry about is access to a bathroom. Unfortunately, commercial flights are not required to depart with a functioning bathroom, sometimes forcing passengers to endure a trip without this basic necessity. Moreover, as ancillary fees continue to grow, the specter of an in-flight bathroom fee continues to loom in the background since first being broached in 2010. Additionally, many of us are all too familiar with paying baggage fees and have come to accept them as part of the flying experience. While lost and delayed baggage rates are declining, passengers who suffer from this inconvenience do so without the right to a refund, even after hours or days of delay. Simply put, if you pay for a service, you should get that service promptly or get your money back. Lipinskis Comfortable and Fair Flights Act of 2015 would remedy these issues with three straightforward provisions. First, if the bathrooms on an aircraft are not functioning properly before departure, passengers would have the option to change their flight plans without incurring a change fee. Second, no commercial airline would be permitted to charge a fee for lavatory use. Third, airlines would be required to refund bag fees to passengers who have had the arrival of their bags delayed by two or more hours. These are all common sense provisions that will help protect the consumer rights of passengers, stated Lipinski.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20160907044013/http://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/why-going-to-the-dentist-is-so-hard-for-the-elderly,Why going to the dentist is so hard for the elderly,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Kankakee City Hall 304 South Indiana Avenue lower level Kankakee, IL 60901 The office is located in Kankakee City Hall, on the lower level, at 304 South Indiana Avenue. It will be open on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Constituents can receive assistance with Social Security and Veterans Administration claims and other issues involving federal agencies as well as get information on federal grants and programs. To schedule an appointment at the Kankakee office, please call (708) 679-0078.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20160907081110/http://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/defective-or-not-the-government-cant-recall-your-gun,"Defective or not, the government can't recall your gun",2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Kankakee City Hall 304 South Indiana Avenue lower level Kankakee, IL 60901 The office is located in Kankakee City Hall, on the lower level, at 304 South Indiana Avenue. It will be open on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Constituents can receive assistance with Social Security and Veterans Administration claims and other issues involving federal agencies as well as get information on federal grants and programs. To schedule an appointment at the Kankakee office, please call (708) 679-0078.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-announces-new-cybersucirty-team-to-be-headquartered-in-illinois,Durbin Announces New Cybersucirty Team to be Headquartered in Illinois,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.09.15 Durbin Announces New Cybersucirty Team to be Headquartered in Illinois [WASHINGTON, DC] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, announced today that the Illinois National Guard will be leading a new cyber protection team. The 39-person unit will be a joint mission with the Wisconsin National Guard and headquartered in Illinois. This new squadron gives the Illinois National Guard a leading role in supporting our national cybersecurity operations, which are critically important to our homeland security efforts, Durbin said. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, I am always proud to see Illinois defense installations play such an important and dynamic part of our nations defense. In meetings throughout the year with Secretary of the Army John McHugh, Army Chief of Staff Ray Odierno, Chief of the National Guard Bureau General Frank Grass, and others, Durbin has advocated for expanding Illinois role in cybersecurity defense operations. In 2014, Durbin announced the addition of two new cyber protection squadrons at Scott Air Force Base. As the Vice Chairman of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees discretionary spending for our nations Armed Forces, Durbin has taken a leading role in helping maintain Illinois leadership in national defense, and in supporting Illinois defense installations including Scott Air Force Base, the Rock Island Arsenal, and Naval Station Great Lakes. Durbin also continues to lead bipartisan efforts among Illinois Congressional Delegation in pressing the Air Force and the Air National Guard to identify a new flying mission for the 183rd Fighter Wing in Springfield, Illinois. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-applauds-passage-of-bill-that-promotes-student-success-and-replaces-no-child-left-behind,Durbin Applauds Passage of Bill that Promotes Student Success & Replaces No Child Left Behind,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.09.15 Durbin Applauds Passage of Bill that Promotes Student Success & Replaces No Child Left Behind Legislation to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, invests in early childhood education and ensures districts like North Chicago can continue to qualify for essential Impact Aid funding [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today applauded Senate passage of the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act Conference Report a bill to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and replace No Child Left Behind. The legislation passed the House of Representatives last week and will now go to President Obama for his signature. This bill is more directly tied to the future prosperity of the United States than virtually any other issue we face here in Congress. It will decide whether our children and grandchildren receive the quality education they deserve from preschool to high school and beyond, said Durbin. The Every Student Succeeds Act makes important improvements to our elementary and secondary education system. I was pleased to vote in favor of a bill to give parents, teachers, and principals back in Illinois a replacement to No Child Left Behind. The Every Student Succeeds Act updates the Impact Aid programs in a way that ensures districts like North Chicago, home to the Great Lakes Naval Base, continues to qualify for much needed assistance. The Every Student Succeeds Act includes a grant program to provide funding for states to improve coordination, quality, and access for early childhood education which is critical to making sure every child has a strong start in life. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-61-house-members-launch-call-to-fund-iaea-iranian-inspections,"Foster, 61 House Members Launch Call To Fund IAEA Iranian Inspections",2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Representative Bill Foster (IL-11) sent a letter signed by 61 Members of Congress urging the House Appropriations Committee to ensure robust funding for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The IAEA is the organization tasked with verifying that states comply with their commitments under the Non-Proliferation Treaty and other non-proliferation agreements. The IAEA is responsible for ensuring successful implementation of the nuclear agreement negotiated with Iran earlier this year. A copy of the letter is available here. Ensuring that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has sufficient funding is essential to the successful implementation of the Iranian nuclear agreement, and to our national security, said Foster. As we begin to develop and debate the Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations bill, we must ensure that the IAEA has the necessary funding to successfully carry out its duties. On October 18, 2015, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran was formally adopted and the process of implementation began. As a result of the continuing costs of implementing monitoring and verification under the JCPOA, Director-General Yukiya Amano stated that the agency would require an additional $10.6 million annually. Although this is a shared cost among all member states, Congress has a responsibility to ensure that the IAEA is set up for success. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-continues-to-support-syrian-refugee-resettlement,Quigley Continues to Support Syrian Refugee Resettlement,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of theHouse Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI), showed support for the continued acceptance of Syrian and Iraqi refugees by signing on to three separate letters that reject attempts to use critical year-end spending legislation to block the acceptance of refugees and encourage additional funding specific to refugee resettlement in order to make the processing of refugee applications more efficient. Americans are understandably concerned about their safety following the recent devastating terrorist attacks in Paris and mass shooting in San Bernardino, California. But as President Obama stressed in is his speech to the nation Sunday night, we cannot betray our values and turn against one another by letting this fight be defined as a war between America and Islam, said Rep. Quigley. In response to the growing threat, we must ensure that our screening procedures for anyone coming to this country, including refugees, are as strong and secure as possible. That is why I am calling for additional funding in the omnibus specific to refugee resettlement. However, I will continue to urge my colleagues to keep controversial changes to the refugee screening and resettlement policies out of the omnibus. It is neither the time nor the place to insert broad changes to the program where they cannot be properly debated or amended. And as the president said, it is the responsibility of Muslims around the world to root out misguided ideas that lead to radicalization, just as it is the responsibility of all Americans of every faith to reject discrimination. Rep. Quigley signed onto a letter led by Rep. John Delaney (MD-06) to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to encourage additional funding specific to refugee resettlement. The U.S. has a thorough system in place for screening the refugees and additional funding would help make the processing of refugee applications even more secure. Programs that need additional funding include the Department of States Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Refugee Resettlement, and the Department of Homeland Securitys U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. RepQuigley signed onto a similar letter led by Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) to House Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers (KY-05) and Ranking Member Nita Lowey (NY-17) to provide sufficient funding to meet the needs of refugee assistance and resettlement programs for FY16. Finally, Rep. Quigley joined a letter with Rep. Jared Polis (CO-02) opposing controversial riders regarding Syrian refugees in FY16 omnibus. The letter points out that adding policy changes to the year-end spending bill would eliminate the opportunity to properly debate or amend the language. In September, Rep. Quigley joined with 70 House colleagues in urging President Obama to resettle at least 100,000 refugees from the ongoing conflict in Syria. He also joined 54 House members in urging the president to call for international negotiations to bring an end to the conflict in Syria. As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI), Rep. Quigley believes government has both the capability and responsibility to play a crucial role in protecting our nations security and protecting the civil liberties of its citizens. He continues to build a record as an advocate for public safety and national security issues, a guardian of civil liberties, and a champion of government transparency and accountability. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-inflammatory-hateful-rhetoric-does-not-reflect-who-we-are-as-americans,"Durbin: Inflammatory, Hateful Rhetoric Does Not Reflect Who We Are as Americans",2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.15 Durbin: Inflammatory, Hateful Rhetoric Does Not Reflect Who We Are as Americans Senator, Illinois Methodist Bishop Sally Dyck, and others reject efforts to exclude all Muslim immigrants [WASHINGTON, DC] Amid statements and inflammatory rhetoric that unfairly vilify billions of Muslims, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate Floor today to call for thoughtfulness and tolerance that reflect the fundamental values of this country. Today, Durbin was also joined by Bishop Sally Dyck of the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church at a press conference to speak out against inflammatory rhetoric directed at refugees and Muslims. Ive met some of these refugees in the City of Chicago. Some of them waited up to two years after they were being investigated and interviewed and fingerprinted before they could come to the United States. They come here simply to start a new life in a safe place and to raise their children. It really is what motivated people across the span of history to come to this great nation, and these refugees are no different, Durbin said. The fact that the Republicans would start by excluding refugees and now Mr. Trump is taking it to the extreme of excluding people of a religious faith the Muslim religion is an indication of a conversation in American politics which needs to stop. We need to reflect once again on the fundamental principles of this question and the fundamental values of this country as well. Video of Durbins remarks on the Senate Floor is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks on the Senate Floor is available here. Footage of Durbin remarks on the Senate Floor is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Today, Durbin joined U.S. Senators Pat Leahy (D-VT) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) and a coalition of national faith leaders from across the religious spectrum, including Bishop Sally Dyck of the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church, to call for smart, moral policymaking over reactionary fear-mongering. Video of Durbins remarks is available here. Video of Bishop Dycks remarks is available here. Durbin recently met with Syrian refugees who have resettled in Chicago, as well as representatives from Chicagos Syrian community and local relief agencies. Durbin has also called on Governor Bruce Rauner to drop his opposition to resettling Syrian refugees in Illinois and to meet with the Syrian refugee families in the state. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-meets-with-amtrak-board-member-tom-carper-to-discuss-passenger-rail-in-illinois,Durbin Meets with Amtrak Board Member Tom Carper to Discuss Passenger Rail in Illinois,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.15 Durbin Meets with Amtrak Board Member Tom Carper to Discuss Passenger Rail in Illinois [WASHINGTON, D.C.] Following Congressional passage of a four-year reauthorization of Amtrak, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) met today with former Mayor of Macomb, Illinois and current member of the Amtrak Board of Directors, Tom Carper, to discuss the importance of Illinois passenger rail network. A photo of todays meeting is available here. As a longtime Amtrak Board Member and the former Mayor of Macomb, which sits along Amtraks Illinois Zephyr and Carl Sandburg lines, Tom Carper in one of Illinois passenger rails strongest allies, Durbin said. Congress must also do its part by providing Amtrak with the resources it needs to continue modernizing our transportation system and creating jobs. Amtrak operates 56 trains a day in Illinois, and ridership in Illinois is up 18 percent over the past five years. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-durbin-challenges-for-profit-colleges-to-explain-why-they-account-for-40-of-student-loan-defaults-by-only-educate-10-of-students,ICYMI: Durbin Challenges For-Profit Colleges to Explain Why They Account for 40% of Student Loan Defaults by Only Educate 10% of Students,2015-12-08,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.15 ICYMI: Durbin Challenges For-Profit Colleges to Explain Why They Account for 40% of Student Loan Defaults by Only Educate 10% of Students Durbin was also critical of Republican attempts to shield for-profit colleges from the Education Departments Gainful Employment Rule [WASHINGTON, D.C.] In a speech on the Senate floor today, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) challenged the for-profit college industry to explain how they can account for 40% of student loan defaults but only educate 10% of students and only 20% of federal student aid. The Department of Education has developed responsible criteria for determining whether career education programs adequately prepare their students for gainful employment as is required by law. The Gainful Employment Rule ensures that students who graduate from a covered program of study are able to get a job that allows them to manage the student debt they take on in the process, said Durbin. How can Republicans in Congress block implementation of this commonsense rule in the wake of what weve just seen with Corinthian? Click on the video below to watch Senator Durbins speech in full on his YouTube page. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-welcomes-doj-investigation,Rep. Gutirrez Welcomes DOJ Investigation,2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"It is a vital step in making surewe prevent more murders and violence in Chicago. Washington, DC On Monday, the Department of Justice announced it was opening an investigation into the Chicago Police Department (CPD) after the murder of Laquan McDonald, a Chicago teenager shot by a CPD officer more than a year ago. Congressman Luis V. Gutirrez, who was among those who requested the investigation, said he was pleased with the news. The following is a statement from the Congressman: Anybody who has seen the videotape of Laquan McDonald being shot and killed can see that current practices of the Chicago Police Department need review both internally and externally. But even before the videotape was released, having grown up in the city of Chicago, I knew there were long-term issues of trust, accountability, use of force, and secrecy that have frayed the bonds between the CPD and the communities they are sworn to protect and serve. Last week I joined Senator Dick Durbin, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, the ACLU, and others in calling for the Department of Justice to investigate the Chicago Police Department to ensure that their policies and practices are in line with federal law and the Constitution. I think every level of government involved in the Laquan McDonald murder deserves investigation and accountability and the broader issues of transparency, trust, and community oversight must be examined. These are issues both the Justice Department and the newly-appointed commission working with former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick will be looking at. It is a vital step in making sure we prevent more murders and violence in Chicago. Last week, Rep. Gutirrez wrote to Attorney General Loretta Lynch asking for such an investigation. His letter is here: (pdf) Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-kelly-statement-on-the-inclusion-of-the-kelly-amendment-to,"Congresswoman Kelly Statement on the inclusion of the Kelly Amendment to S. 1177, the Every Student Succeeds Act",2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congress recently passed legislation which included an amendment offered by Congresswoman Robin Kelly (IL-02) promoting adult literacy and financial literacy in communities across the country. Kellys proposal ensured that Family Engagement in Education Programs covered under S. 1177, the Every Student Succeeds Act conduct adult and financial literacy in order to engage families and improve academic outcomes for students. Im proud that my colleagues were able to come together to replace No Child Left Behind, an outdated education law that no longer reflects todays education needs. With the passage of this crucial bill, our schools will have the data and resources they need to ensure that all students can receive a well-rounded, comprehensive education. The passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act isnt just a win for our youth, but for adults as well. Im glad that my colleagues recognized the importance of adult literacy and financial literacy by keeping my amendment in the final conference bill. With more than 30 million American adults who have a hard time reading and millions more currently struggling with basic financial literacy, this is an issue that we need to address immediately. My amendment ensures that we dont forget about adult education in our first comprehensive education bill since 2001. The Every Student Succeeds Act is a Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The bill passed the House in a 359-64 vote.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-kelly-supports-civil-rights-investigation-into-chicago,Congresswoman Kelly Supports Civil Rights Investigation into Chicago Police Department,2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Robin Kelly issued the following statement regarding the Department of Justices decision to investigate the Chicago Police in the wake of the Laquan McDonald Case: I applaud U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynchs decision to investigate the processes and procedures of the Chicago Police Department to get at the heart of the lingering questions raised not only by the fatal police shooting of Laquan McDonald, but by past incidents involving CPD officers that have eroded public trust in the department. The McDonald case is emblematic of a larger, pervasive problem with policing in America. From Ferguson to Cleveland, from Baltimore to New York City, we have seen example after example of police interactions resulting in the wrongful death of a person of color. The pain of these killings for the victims families and the communities at large is then compounded by the evasive and circuitous actions of law enforcement and local officials designed to frustrate justice. This now predictable pattern has fostered deep mistrust and fear of law enforcement in communities of color, undermining the many good police officers who serve honorably every day and erecting a barrier between the police and the community that jeopardizes public safety. I believe this examination is essential to establishing a national standard for effective policing in communities of color. It is also a vital step in restoring the publics trust in law enforcement by helping to create a fairer, more equitable system of justice for all Americans. Congresswoman Robin Kelly is Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Gun Violence Prevention Task Force.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-statement-on-doj-investigation-of-cpd,Rush Statement on DOJ investigation of CPD,2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHICAGO Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) released the following statement after U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced that the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) will investigate the Chicago Police Department (CPD). The DOJ investigation comes after the release of a CPD dash cam video showing the shooting death of Laquan McDonald: Finally, we have just received official word that our pleas, petitions and prayers have been honored. The welcome news that the U.S. Justice Department will finally investigate the patterns and practices of the Chicago Police Department gives us hope. We fully expect that that the systemic problems that have caused deep-seated mistrust between minority citizens of this city and the Chicago Police Department will come to a screeching halt. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/citing-recent-outrageous-examples-durbin-calls-on-ftc-to-review-sharp-spikes-in-drug-pricing,"Citing Recent Outrageous Examples, Durbin Calls on FTC to Review Sharp Spikes in Drug Pricing",2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.15 Citing Recent Outrageous Examples, Durbin Calls on FTC to Review Sharp Spikes in Drug Pricing Senator also says FTC should scrutinize mergers and acquisitions for their potential impact on drug pricing decisions [WASHINGTON, D.C.] In a meeting today with the Chairwoman of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) called on the agency to make a timely review of any reported sharp spike in drug pricing such as a 100% or more manufacturer price increase within a short time period to determine if any anticompetitive actions have taken place. Citing FTCs authority to review and block pharmaceutical mergers if there is risk of diminished competition, Durbin also urged Chairwoman Edith Ramirez to carefully scrutinize mergers and acquisitions for their potential impact on drug pricing decisions. Access to prescription drugs is a life or death matter for many Americans, said Durbin. Sudden, unexplained price spikes could put people at risk of losing access to these essential medications. Pharmaceutical companies have a right to make a reasonable profit, but they also have a responsibility to play by the rules and be responsible market participants. If they are not, the federal government should step in and investigate. There have been a number of recent examples of brand name and generic drug companies rapidly raising the price of prescription drugs. Confusion, anger, and calls for a regulatory response have come after price spikes on the following drugs: Isuprel & Nitropress: It was reported that prices of Isuprel and Nitropress both used by cardiac patients immediately rose by 525% and 212% respectively after the two drugs were acquired by Valeant Pharmaceuticals from Marathon Pharmaceuticals in February 2015. Glumetza: It was reported that in 2015, the price of Glumetza rose by 550% over the course of 2015. Its price for 90 tablets increased from $896 in Jan. 2013 to $10,020 as of July 31. Daraprim: In August 2015, it was reported that the price of the prescription drug Daraprim used to treat toxoplasmosis in AIDS patients immediately rose from $13.50 to $750 a tablet after the drug was acquired by Turing Pharmaceuticals. Cycloserine: In August 2015, it was reported that the price of Cycloserine used to treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis immediately rose $500 to $10,800 for 30 capsules after the drug was acquired by Rodelis Therapeutics from the Purdue Research Foundation. After public outcry, Rodelis agreed to return the drug to the Foundation in September, 2015, who is now charging $1,050 for 30 capsules. Vimovo: It was reported that the price of Vimovo a pain reliever immediately rose by 597% after the drug was acquired by Horizon Pharma from AstraZeneca in 2013. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-congress-must-close-dangerous-loopholes-to-reduce-horrific-gun-violence,Durbin: Congress Must Close Dangerous Loopholes to Reduce Horrific Gun Violence,2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.15 Durbin: Congress Must Close Dangerous Loopholes to Reduce Horrific Gun Violence [WASHINGTON, DC] In the wake of both recent mass shooting tragedies and the daily toll of gun violence across the America, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate Floor today to call for commonsense reforms to close loopholes in gun laws. During his remarks, Durbin discussed the proliferation of crime guns trafficked into Chicago from outside the city, where less stringent gun regulations make it easier to purchase firearms. Cant we agree even among those people who own guns, who value them, who use them for sport, hunting or self-defense cant we agree that keeping guns out of the hands of convicted felons and mentally unstable people is the starting point? They did a review of the crime guns that were seized at the highest crime areas in the City of Chicago. And they found out that 40 percent of the guns used in the commission of crime in some of the deadliest precincts of Chicago came from Northwest Indiana gun shows. Why? Well, because you dont go through a background check if you buy from certain people at a gun show. And when they say, well, you know, its a shame they have so much gun violence in Chicago because you know they have some of the strictest laws on the books. Well, those strict laws dont apply when you cross the state line to Indiana. And sadly, those strict laws dont apply as they should across the United States. Video of Durbins remarks on the Senate Floor is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks on the Senate Floor is available here. Footage of Durbin remarks on the Senate Floor is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-on-doj-investigation-this-is-an-opportunity-not-a-penalty,"Durbin on DOJ Investigation: This is an Opportunity, Not a Penalty",2015-12-07,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.15 Durbin on DOJ Investigation: This is an Opportunity, Not a Penalty WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement after Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced a Department of Justice Civil Rights Division investigation of the Chicago Police Department (CPD)s policies and practices.Durbin asked for the investigation Thursday in a letter that can be found HERE. The overwhelming majority of our law enforcement officers do the right thing every day, and many risk their lives doing it. This investigation shouldnt be viewed as a penalty, but rather as an opportunity. An impartial investigation can help identify those areas where the CPD has fallen short and guide the Department onto a better course. These investigations in other major cities have led to critical reforms that improve the safety of police and the communities they serve.These reforms coordinated with the Justice Department are currently underway in cities like Seattle; Pittsburgh; Cleveland; Albuquerque; New Orleans; and Portland, Oregon. To take just one example, an investigation of the Seattle Police Department found that officers had used force in 70% of encounters with people with mental illness. Since a consent decree was entered, officers have used force in less than 2% of encounters with people with mental illness.And all serious uses of force are now being investigated by a specialized review team, resulting in improvements to tactics, training and policy. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-schakowsky-quigley-urge-illinoisans-to-get-covered-before-aca-enrollment-deadline,"Durbin, Schakowsky, Quigley Urge Illinoisans to Get Covered Before ACA Enrollment Deadline",2015-12-06,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.15 Durbin, Schakowsky, Quigley Urge Illinoisans to Get Covered Before ACA Enrollment Deadline CHICAGO With an important Affordable Care Act deadline less than two weeks away, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09) and Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Region V Director Kathleen Falk today urged the remaining uninsured and those wishing to re-enroll to take action before the December 15th deadline in order to get health care coverage that starts in January. Open enrollment for 2016 coverage runs from November 1, 2015 to January 31, 2016, but for coverage to start January 1, people must sign up by December 15th. Illinoisans can enroll by visiting GetCoveredIllinois.gov, calling 866-311-1119 or attending upcoming local events where trained professionals will be offering free and confidential assistance. The Affordable Care Act has addressed some of the most glaring gaps in Americas healthcare system. It helps Illinoisans who are self-employed, starting a business, between jobs, or recently out of school get the health care security they deserve, Durbin said. Picking the right health insurance for you and your family can be difficult. But it isnt impossible, and there are people to help you. Im happy to be here today to encourage people in Illinois to take advantage of all the ACA has to offer and sign up now for affordable health care coverage for next year. Over 17 million Americans are already enjoying the benefits of affordable, quality health care coverage, said Rep. Schakowsky. It is vital that all Americans who don't have healthcare coverage sign up and get covered, andthat those already in the Exchange shop to make sure that they are in a plan that includes their doctors. Before Congress passed the Affordable Care Act, premiums were rising three times faster than wages, the rising costs of health care were hurting small businesses, and Americas were denied coverage because of preexisting conditions. But now, thanks to the ACA, all Americans have access to affordable health insurance, said Rep. Quigley. Tremendous progress was made in the Latino community specifically, as 4.2 million Latinos gained health care coverage under ACA. Im proud to join my colleagues Senator Durbin and Congresswoman Schakowsky to ensure that all Chicagoans sign up for the early deadline to ensure coverage by January 1st. We are working hard to make it easier to get covered in fact, you can even do so on your cell phone!but it takes the hard work of leaders and partners in the community to get the word out, said Falk. That is why we are so grateful for the leadership and efforts of Senator Durbin, Congresswoman Schakowsky, and Congressman Quigley. More than 800,000 people in Illinois now have health insurance through the Marketplace or Medicaid. About 240,000 of those people who purchased a plan through GetCoveredIllinois.gov receive a subsidy to help pay for that coverage. Of the remaining uninsured who qualify for the Marketplace, more than 7 out of 10 are employed. Almost 40 percent of the uninsured are earning between 139 and 250 percent of the poverty levelwhich is about 30 to 60 thousand dollars a year for a family of four. In addition, almost half are between the ages of 18 and 34. Many plans have changed significantly for 2016 so consumers are encouraged to check out the plans online or through a navigator to make sure they're enrolled in the plan that best meets their budget and health needs. More than half of Illinoisans will be able to buy a plan for $75 or less a month in premiums after tax credits, and over 9 out of 10 returning Illinoisans could save an average of $1,030 annually in premiums (before tax credits) for a plan in the same level of coverage by returning to shop. -30-? Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-president-obamas-address-to-the-nation,Durbin Statement on President Obama's Address to the Nation,2015-12-06,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.15 Durbin Statement on President Obama's Address to the Nation WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement on President Obamas address to the nation from the Oval Office: The world has witnessed acts of evil in the past several weeks, from Beirut and Paris to Colorado Springs and San Bernardino. As the President said tonight, in our darkest moments, when innocent civilians are gunned down in horrific massacres, it is how we respond, how we band together to fight terror itself that defines who we are as Americans. The threat from terrorism is real, but we will overcome it. The President outlined a plan to combat ISIL in the Middle East without getting American forces mired in a new, protracted ground war. He called on Congress to again vote on legislation to prohibit suspected terrorists from purchasing firearms in this country, and I will continue to push for that until we close this dangerous loophole. He challenged Congress to tighten vulnerabilities in the Visa Waiver Program. And finally, the President called on Congress to vote on a new authorization on the use of military force to combat ISIL. I support him in that. There may be a tendency to panic after these attacksbut oftentimes our first reactions are overreactions. Make no mistake: that is precisely what terrorists want. They commit these atrocities to disrupt our lives, make us look over our shoulders, and to turn neighbor against neighbor in fear. We cannot allow the United States to fall into that trap. America has a proud history of responding to tragedy with compassion for those impacted, and steady resolve to prevent future attacks. We must continue it in defiance of this evil. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-lake-county-community-leaders-discuss-initiatives-to-combat-heroin-epidemic,"Durbin, Lake County Community Leaders Discuss Initiatives to Combat Heroin Epidemic",2015-12-04,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.04.15 Durbin, Lake County Community Leaders Discuss Initiatives to Combat Heroin Epidemic [LIBERTYVILLE, IL] As heroin overdose deaths rise in Illinois and across the country,U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with members of the Lake County Opioid Initiative to discuss overdose-prevention and treatment strategies. Durbinalso discussedrecently co-sponsored bills to expand treatment for heroin addiction and expand access to naloxone - a drug that counters the effects of an opioid overdose - and other drug prevention programs that have been proven to save lives. Communities across the nation, and here in Illinois, are waking up to an epidemic of prescription opioid abuse, compounded only by the torrent of cheap heroin coming from Mexico. Lake County is no exception, Durbin said. With heroin and opioid use on the rise, we should be doing everything we can to give first-responders access to life-saving drugs likenaloxone. I will continue to work to ensure that community groups and first responders on the front lines have the resources they need to prevent more individuals from falling victim to opioid abuse. Since 1999, the number of drug overdose deaths in the United States has more than doubled, and in most states the number now exceeds the number of traffic-related deaths.Drug overdose deaths are now the leading cause of preventable injury death, resulting in nearly 44,000 deaths each year, with most involving either prescription opioids or heroin. In Illinois, there were 1,652 overdose deaths in 2014 an increase of nearly 29 percent since 2010. In Lake County 39 people died from heroin related overdose in 2011, 48 in 2012, 23 in 2013, 38 in 2014, and 29 in 2015 as of November 1. In June, Durbin introduced the Overdose Prevention Act which aims to decrease the rate of drug overdose deaths by improving access to naloxone. The bill would provide funding to community-based organizations to purchase and distribute naloxone, and carry out overdose prevention activities, such as educating prescribers and pharmacists or training first responders. In November, the FDA approved a new even easier to use naloxone nasal spray. According to the Lake County Opioid Initiative, more than 40 lives have been saved by naloxone in Lake County since first responders started carrying it in 2014. Naloxone has no side effects or potential for abuse, and is widely recognized as an important tool to help prevent drug overdose deaths, but many communities struggle to get naloxone to those on the front lines who need it most. The Centers for Disease Control earlier this year published an analysis showing that between 1996 and 2014, more than 150,000 laypersons at risk of witnessing an overdose were trained in administering naloxone and saved more than 26,000 lives across the country. Thousands of these reversals were in Illinois. Durbin has also cosponsored legislation to lift the cap on the number of patients physicians can treat using medication assisted therapies. Illinois ranked first in the U.S. for its decline in treatment capacity between 2007 and 2012, and had the lowest rate of state-funded treatment compared to other Midwestern states. The Recovery Enhancement for Addiction Treatment Act (TREAT Act) would not only lift the federal limits on the number of patients a doctor can treat with methadone, but it would also enable nurse practitioners and physicians assistants trained in addiction medicine to treat patients with medication assisted therapies. Following the introduction of the bill, the U.S.Department of Health and Human Services announced that it will revise regulations related to the prescribing of buprenorphine to expand access to medication-assisted treatment. In October President Obama announced new federal, state, local and private sector efforts to address both the prescription drug and heroin abuse epidemics. These include revising regulations that cap the number of patients a doctor may treat at one time with buprenorphine, thus expanding access to medication-assisted treatment for opioid use. The administration is working to double the number of physicians certified to prescribe buprenorphine as treatment for opioid use, from 30,000 to 60,000 over the next three years. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-announces-over-32-million-for-early-education-in-joliet,Foster Announces Over $3.2 million for Early Education in Joliet,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Joliet, IL Today, Congressman Bill Foster announced that over $3.2 million in grant funding from the Department of Health and Human Services will be awarded to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Joliet, Inc., for the continuation of the organizations Head Start and Early Head Start programs that serve 750 families in the Joliet Area. Making sure our children have access to learning opportunities in the years before traditional education begins should be a top priority, Foster said. Children enrolled in Head Start and Early Head Start will be better prepared for kindergarten and are more likely to be successful down the road. We are very happy and delighted that we received this second year of funding, said Kathy Fudge-White, Director of Early Childhood Services Division, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Joliet. We look forward to providing services on behalf of children and families who are in need of comprehensive services in Will County. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-takano-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-establish-national-3d,"Foster, Takano Introduce Bipartisan legislation To Establish National 3D Printing Day",2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCToday, Representatives Bill Foster (IL-11) and Mark Takano (CA-41) introduced a bipartisan House resolution to establish December 3rd as national 3D Printing Day. Text of the resolution is available here. The pair also introduced the legislation in the 113th Congress. Advances in 3D printing are creating unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurs and manufactures to develop new products and bring ideas to life. From bio-technology, to food production, to advanced manufacturing, 3D printing is creating endless opportunities for innovation. Its critical that we continue to develop this technology and recognize its importance in the modern economy, said Foster. Developments in the 3D printing industry are being led by American entrepreneurs, and were just beginning to realize the impact this technology will have on our lives. Soon well see 3D printers in classrooms, at the office and in our homes, completely altering how we interact with the global supply chain. Im proud to be the only member of Congress to house a 3D printer in my office. We should promote this technology widely to increase opportunities for innovation, said Takano. By enabling rapid production of previously impossible, innovative products, 3D printing has the potential to spawn thousands of new businesses in the U.S. and give domestic companies an edge in global markets. The Department of Energy estimates that 3D printing can save 50% of energy use compared to more traditional manufacturing processes. Foster and Takano introduced this resolution to honor innovative technologies, such as 3D printing, that have the potential to jump-start advanced manufacturing in the United States. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-votes-for-five-year-transportation-bill,Foster Votes For Five-Year Transportation Bill,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Representative Bill Foster (IL-11) voted for the conference report on Fixing Americas Surface Transportation Act. The act is the first long-term transportation bill passed by Congress in over a decade and will fund transportation projects for the next five years. The measure, which authorizes $281 billion in funding, will now go to the Senate for a final vote. While Foster voted for the measure, he expressed disappointment that the final bill did not include the Foster Payer Statement Amendment that was included in the original House bill. I am glad that Congress was finally able to pass a long-term transportation bill, said Foster. This will give our local governments and businesses the certainty they need to make long-term investments. However, I am disappointed that the Payer State amendment passed by the House was removed during conference with the Senate, Foster added. Many states are getting out of the Federal Highway Trust Fund several times more than they pay into it, while payer states like Illinois, New York, Florida, New Jersey, California, Michigan, Colorado, and others, are getting rooked. My amendment would have shone a light on this massive redistribution of wealth from one state to another. Fosters amendment would require the Department of Transportation to calculate in each year, how much each state receives from the Highway Trust Fund. The report would also include an accounting of how much revenue each state put into the Highway Trust Fund through both the gas tax and related contributions, and contributions including funds transferred from general revenue. More information on the amendment is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-on-passage-of-elementary-and-secondary-education-act,Quigley Statement on Passage of Elementary and Secondary Education Act Reauthorization,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Yesterday, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement in response to the passage of the bipartisan reauthorization bill for the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, which included Rep. Quigleys amendment to maintain certification requirements for educational staff: Passage of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act reauthorization is good news for students, parents, and teachers across the country.The agreement includes strong federal safeguards to ensure all students have access to a quality education, expands access to preschool, reduces dependence on high-stakes testing, and much more. I am also pleased that the final bill included the amendment I offered in February, which maintains certification requirements for educational staff, or paraprofessionals. Paraprofessionals offer critical support with teaching instruction and student learning assistance, especially in overcrowded and special needs classrooms. I am glad Congress recognized the vital role these individuals play in the classroom and decided to continue the maintenance of certification to rightly equip these professionals with the skills needed to continue their work. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-blumenthal-statement-on-ed-decision-to-grant-relief-to-over-1300-students-following-collapse-of-corinthian-colleges,"Durbin, Blumenthal Statement on ED Decision to Grant Relief to Over 1,300 Students Following Collapse of Corinthian Colleges",2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.03.15 Durbin, Blumenthal Statement on ED Decision to Grant Relief to Over 1,300 Students Following Collapse of Corinthian Colleges [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today called the Department of Educations approval of more than $28 million in federal student loan debt relief of 1,312 students of former Heald College which was part of the collapsed Corinthian Colleges, Inc. system evidence of progress for students. To accompany todays relief, the Department of Treasury issued guidance that ensures federal debt relief for Corinthian students will not be considered taxable income. We appreciate todays assurance from the Department of Treasury that Corinthian students will not face a tax bill for federal student loan debt relief. Anything else would be unfair, said the Senators. The Department of Educations approval of relief today is welcome news for some 1,300 former Heald students, but there are thousands more across the country who deserve the same relief. We encourage the Department to step up the pace and scope of its Corinthian debt relief efforts to give those students the relief they deserve under the law now. The Senators have been calling for federal student loan relief for Corinthian students since the company collapsed more than a year ago. Durbin and Blumenthal joined 16 other Senators earlier this month in a LETTER urging the Department of Education (ED) to grant immediate, class-wide relief to former Corinthian Colleges, Inc. students following a recent federal district court ruling that the for-profit college chain broke federal consumer protection laws. Their letter came after a federal judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois issued a default judgment against Corinthian Colleges, finding that it violated the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 (CFPA) ban on deceptive practices by misrepresenting job prospects and career services available to students to induce them into taking on debt. The company then engaged in predatory collections practices that directly interfered with the educational services for which students were paying. -30- Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-congress-sends-long-term-transportation-bill-to-president,Durbin: Congress Sends Long-Term Transportation Bill to President,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.03.15 Durbin: Congress Sends Long-Term Transportation Bill to President Legislation includes reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank which Senator says is key tool for Illinois businesses [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) hailed Congressional passage of legislation that will authorize and fund transportation programs for the next 5 years and reauthorize the Export-Import Bank. Durbin who was a member of the Conference Committee tasked with finding a compromise between the House and Senate versions of the transportation bill said that the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act will provide the certainty that businesses and state governments, like Illinois, need to plan critical infrastructure projects, create good-paying jobs and support Illinois businesses. On passage of the FAST Act, Durbin said: This is a strong bipartisan bill that reauthorizes our nation's transportation programs and gives state and local agencies certainty in planning for the next five years. As a member of the House-Senate Conference Committee, I was glad to be at the table working to protect Illinois important, job-creating infrastructure priorities. Amtrak President & CEO Joe Boardman said: We appreciate the hard work and strong bipartisan support from the leadership of the Committees of jurisdiction in moving forward this transportation legislation. We thank Sen. Durbin and all of Congress for recognizing Amtrak as a vital mode of transportation and including Amtrak in the Surface Transportation Bill for the first time in history. The continued steady demand of ridership and expansion of service clearly demonstrates the need for critical investment in passenger rail. Additional information on Illinois transportation priorities included in the FAST Act can be found on Senator Durbins WEBSITE. On reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank, Durbin said: This reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank is long overdue. I am glad to see it was included in todays legislation. As businesses grow and expand, they often look to foreign markets where U.S. goods and services are in high demand. The Export-Import Bank the primary tool supporting U.S. exports helps at least 100 Illinois companies, more than 80 of which are small businesses. The Export-Import Bank is a key tool that thousands of businesses including 3,340 small businesses across the country rely on to access new markets, boost international sales, and succeed in the global economy. Every $1 billion in new exports sales supports 6,000 additional jobs. These transactions support $27.4 billion in exports and 164,000 American jobs all while returning $7 billion to the U.S. Treasury over the last 20 years. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-requests-doj-investigation-of-chicago-police-department-policies-and-practices,Durbin Requests DOJ Investigation of Chicago Police Department Policies & Practices,2015-12-03,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.03.15 Durbin Requests DOJ Investigation of Chicago Police Department Policies & Practices [WASHINGTON, D.C.] Following a meeting at the White House on criminal justice reform, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke with Attorney General Loretta Lynch to request a Department of Justice Civil Rights Division investigation of the Chicago Police Department (CPD)s policies and practices. Durbin asked for the investigation in a letter that can be found HERE. The shooting death of Laquan McDonald is just one of a number of troubling incidents that have frayed the relationship between the CPD and the community it serves, and in truth, this most recent incident is only the latest in a series of troubling events over many years. These incidents raise serious concerns about whether the CPD has in place appropriate policies and practices to prevent civil rights violations. An impartial investigation by the Justice Department can help identify those areas where the CPD has fallen short and guide the CPD onto a better course, Durbin wrote. The men and women of law enforcement risk their lives every day to protect us, and it is incumbent upon them to live up to the standards they have sworn to uphold, Durbin continued. The overwhelming majority of law enforcement officers are conscientious and professional. Nevertheless, there is undeniable evidence that some have abused the authority given them. Text of todays letter is below. December 3, 2015 The Honorable Loretta E. Lynch Attorney General United States Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20530 Dear Attorney General Lynch: I urge the Department of Justice to open an investigation into the Chicago Police Department (CPD) to assess whether the CPDs policies and practices comply with the Constitution and federal law. Effective community policing must be built on a foundation of trust, accountability, and mutual respect. The men and women of law enforcement risk their lives every day to protect us, and it is incumbent upon them to live up to the standards they have sworn to uphold. The overwhelming majority of law enforcement officers are conscientious and professional. Nevertheless, there is undeniable evidence that some have abused the authority given them. The shooting death of Laquan McDonald is just one of a number of troubling incidents that have frayed the relationship between the CPD and the community it serves, and in truth, this most recent incident is only the latest in a series of troubling events over many years. These incidents raise serious concerns about whether the CPD has in place appropriate policies and practices to prevent civil rights violations. An impartial investigation by the Justice Department can help identify those areas where the CPD has fallen short and guide the CPD onto a better course. As you know, 42 U.S.C. 14141, the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, gives the Civil Rights Division statutory authority to investigate state and local police departments to determine whether they are engaged in a pattern or practice of unlawful conduct that deprives persons of the rights and privileges guaranteed by the Constitution and federal law. A careful investigation of the CPD by the Civil Rights Division will help address any civil rights violations, institute reforms to prevent any future violations, and restore community confidence in the CPD. I urge you to swiftly initiate such an investigation. Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter. I look forward to your prompt response. Sincerely, Richard J. Durbin United States Senator -30- Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-calls-for-justice-for-laquan-mcdonald,Foster Calls For Justice For Laquan McDonald,2015-12-02,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congressman Bill Foster spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives to call for justice for Laquan McDonald. Video of Fosters speech can be found here. Text of Fosters remarks as prepared is below: Mr. Speaker, weve seen an uproar over the death of Laquan McDonald, and rightfully so. But sadly the injustice for Laquan goes much deeper. Laquan McDonald suffered more tragedy in his short life than anyone should have to bear. As a child, Laquan was abused at home. He was then handed over to the Department of Children and Family Services where he was sexually molested not just once, but in two different foster homes. At 17 years old, Laquan was shot 16 times by an on-duty police officer. Even after death the injustice continued it took 400 days before the officer who shot Laquan faced charges. We should all be ashamed of how our society failed Laquan McDonald. Mr. speaker I rise today to remind my colleagues that black lives matter, that Laquan McDonalds life matters, and justice matters. We should all be working to ensure that Laquan gets the justice that he has been denied for so long and to end the cycle of poverty, abuse, and injustice that shaped his life. Thank you and I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-mass-shooting-in-san-bernardino,Durbin Statement on Mass Shooting in San Bernardino,2015-12-02,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.02.15 Durbin Statement on Mass Shooting in San Bernardino Durbin: victims deserve more than out thoughts and prayersthey deserve action WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate floor this evening about the horrific mass shooting today in San Bernardino, California: Earlier today, there was a mass shooting in San Bernardino, California. News reports are saying that up to three heavily armed gunmen attacked a social services center that helps developmentally disabled people and their families in the community. Preliminary reports say that there have been 14 people killed, and 14 wounded, although we dont know the exact number yet. There are videos of wounded people actually lying in the streets. The suspects apparently fled the scene in a black SUV. A manhunt is underway. This story is horrific, but it is also horribly familiar. There have been over 350 mass shootings in America this year. On average, 297 Americans are shot every single day89 fatally. And listen to this grim and sad statistic: there have been over 50 school shootings this year in America. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and first responders in San Bernardino, but they and all the victims across our country deserve more than our thoughts and prayers. They deserve action. It is time for Congress, in a level-headed, common sense moment, to vote on passage of legislation to protect innocent people across America from this horrific gun violence. Video of Durbins remarks is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks is available here. Footage of Durbin remarks is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=2856,Conference Committee Passes Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill; Rep. Lipinski Secures Critical Language That Benefits District and Nation,2015-12-01,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) joined the other members of the House-Senate Conference Committee to announce that they have completed negotiations on the first long-term federal road and transit funding bill in 10 years. As the only House Transportation Committee member from Illinois appointed to work out the compromise, Lipinski helped make sure the final bill increases funding for local road and transit projects and addresses regional transportation priorities that will ease congestion and increase safety. The bill, known as the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, will be considered on the House floor on Thursday. The fact that we were able to reach agreement on a road and transit funding bill is great news for the nation, especially people that live and work in northeastern Illinois, said Rep. Lipinski. I fought hard in the Transportation Committee, on the House floor, and in the conference negotiations, and was able to make this bill better at each step. Illinois will receive more money to ease congestion on our roads, including funding to specifically fix problems related to the regions position as the nations freight transportation hub. This includes two new freight programs that will help fund the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) rail modernization plan, specifically encompassing money to build underpasses for roads that cross rail lines. Local transit riders will see improvements from the increased funding for Metra, CTA, and Pace. While this bill will not solve all of our congestion problems, it is a good step forward and will help improve quality of life in the region. The FAST Act provides $281 billion for roads and transit over five years, with funding increasing 5.1% in the first year and 2% in subsequent years. Illinois will receive approximately $7.5 billion in guaranteed funding for roads; this averages out to $1.51 billion per year, up from $1.37 billion in 2015. The bill establishes two new programs to help regions such as northeastern Illinois that suffer from congestion caused by freight moving on trucks and trains. One program provides $11 billion in formula funds and the other provides $5 billion for grants to projects such as grade separations to eliminate blocked roads at rail crossings. Illinois will also receive nearly $3 billion in transit support, with the opportunity for more funding through competitive grant programs. The FAST Act includes $199 million in support for commuter rail agencies, such as Metra, to install and test Positive Train Control safety technology. The bill also includes the first Amtrak reauthorization in seven years, providing $8 billion over five years compared to $5.8 billion in four years in the original House bill. Congressman Lipinski was also able to remove from the final bill restrictions on the use of certain federal funds for transit projects; such limitations could have made the Core Capacity and New Starts components of the Red and Purple Line Modernization Projects infeasible without severely restricting CTA spending on other lines and routes. Funding for the Transportation Alternatives Program, which supports investment in infrastructure for bicycling, walking, and other active transportation means, was also maintained despite efforts to reduce or eliminate the program. In addition, Rep. Lipinski was able to include provisions in the bill that increase the safety of rail cars carrying oil and other hazardous materials, support the deployment of zero-emission buses, and help boost American manufacturing jobs by improving Buy American laws. In his role as the top Democrat on the Research and Technology Subcommittee of the House Science Committee, he was also able to add language to the research portion of the bill to speed the development and deployment of connected and autonomous vehicles, which will improve safety, save fuel, and reduce congestion on our roads.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-house-senate-transportation-bill-compromise-protects-important-illinois-infrastructure-priorities,Durbin: House-Senate Transportation Bill Compromise Protects Important Illinois Infrastructure Priorities,2015-12-01,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.01.15 Durbin: House-Senate Transportation Bill Compromise Protects Important Illinois Infrastructure Priorities Senator protects expansion of RRIF loan program that would make more projects in Chicago like Union Station upgrades eligible for funding [WASHINGTON, D.C.] Today, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) announced a bipartisan, bicameral agreement to authorize and fund transportation programs for the next 5 years. Durbin who was a member of the Conference Committee tasked with finding a compromise between the House and Senate versions of the transportation bill said that the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act will provide the certainty that businesses and state governments, like Illinois, need to plan critical infrastructure projects and create good-paying jobs. This is a good bipartisan bill that reauthorizes our nation's transportation programs and gives state and local agencies certainty in planning for the next five years, Durbin said. As a member of the House-Senate Conference Committee, I was glad to be at the table working to protect Illinois important, job-creating infrastructure priorities. Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF) Program Durbin worked to secure improvements in the FAST Act to streamline the RRIF program to ensure that Transit Oriented (commercial) Development at the station can be used as collateral for future loans. Durbin fought for this provision in order to make this program more easily accessible to places like the City of Chicago which may now have easier access to financing. The RRIF program provides long-term, low-interest loans for railroad-related improvements. In spite of its potential to assist communities with large-scale projects like the redevelopment of Chicagos Union Station, this program has been severely underutilized. Expediting and improving the RRIF process and also making these much-needed loans more accessible will greatly improve the flow of traffic and provide significant benefit to the local communities. Additional programs in the FAST Act that will help maintain growth in investment for Illinois transportation projects, provide the certainty for smart planning, improve Illinois transportation network, and save or create thousands of jobs in Illinois include: Highway Programs the FAST Act includes robust funding for the existing core highway formula program structure created by MAP-21 including the Surface Transportation Program, Railway-Highway Crossings, and Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality (CMAQ) programs which is critical to ensuring that our nations roads are up to the task of moving people and goods safely and efficiently. Illinois lies at the heart of our busy national interstate system and its interstates see more than 106 million vehicle miles of travel annually. National Freight Program the FAST Act establishes a first of its kind formula-based freight program to provide grants to all states to improve freight movement.This program is based on a provision Durbin advocated for in MAP-21, the previous transportation bill, to create a national policy to improve the performance of freight infrastructure. The program will also expand flexibility for both rural and urban areas to designate key freight corridors that match regional freight movement on roads. Illinois is home to the second largest rail network in the country, with nearly 10,000 miles of railroad track, and 7,737 public at-grade crossings. National and Regional Priority Infrastructure Projects the FAST Act establishes a first of its kind competitive grant program the Nationally Significant Freight and Highway Projects program that would give states and communities the opportunity to seek additional funding for projects with regional and national significance, similar to the successful Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant program. Large, Aging Mass Transit Systems the FAST Act funds the State of Good Repair program with additional increases to nearly $2.7B in the fifth year of the legislation. The program was originally created to help public transportation systems address the backlog of maintenance needs for Americas aging transit systems. In Illinois, the primary beneficiaries of the State of Good Repair program are urban transit rail systems, like the Chicago Transit Authority, which is one of the nations largest and oldest transit systems. During the Senates negotiations on a long-term transportation bill, Durbin fought aggressively for robust funding for transit programs, and worked to secure an additional $100 million per year in spending through the State of Good Repair program. He continued to advocate for increased levels in the Conference Committee. Bus and Bus Facilities the FAST Act funds the Bus and Bus Facilities program at a significant increase from $427.8 million at current levels to $808.7 million in the fifth year of the legislation. This program is critical to downstate Illinois communities. Just last year, Bloomington-Normals Connect Transit received $2 million in funding to purchase up to eight replacement buses. Chicago has also benefited from this program, and has recently received $10.3 million to upgrade the current fleet of Chicago Transit Authority buses. Positive Train Control (PTC) System - $199 million in funding is included for PTC which is a communications-based system designed to prevent certain types of train accidents. PTC is an important safety feature, and additional funding will assist commuter lines in affording this technology. Tank Car Safety the FAST Act requires a study on crude oil volatility to be performed jointly by the Department of Transportation and the Department of Energy. The bill requires new tank cars be equipped with a thermal jacket, aiding in a longer burn time, and sets standards for top fittings. It also requires the Department of Transportation to issue regulations regarding a comprehensive oil spill response plan which requires railroads to disclose information on their oil train shipments to state emergency response commissions, law enforcement, and first responders. The regulations will also determine confidentiality measures on the security-sensitive information. The bills also mandate a study and testing of ECP braking system by the National Academy of Sciences. Amtrak Reauthorization the FAST Act reauthorizes Amtrak and the national passenger rail network. Amtrak operates 56 trains a day in Illinois, ridership in Illinois is up 18 percent over the past five years. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-dismissal-of-chicago-police-superintendent-garry-mccarthy,Durbin Statement on Dismissal of Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy,2015-12-01,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.01.15 Durbin Statement on Dismissal of Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement after Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced that he had dismissed Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy: Now is the time to move forward and build a relationship based on mutual trust and respect between the Police Department and the community it serves. Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect us. Those who fail to live up to the high standards they have sworn to uphold must be held accountable. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-goes-undercover-as-candied-apple-maker,Quigley Goes Undercover as Caramel Apple Maker,2015-11-30,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHICAGO Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) went undercover as a worker at Affy Tapple in Niles, Illinois, home of Chicagos original caramel apple for over 65 years and the gourmet brand Mrs. Prindables. The Fifth District is lucky to have a business like Affy Tapple, which uses locally grown products to create a company that gives back to the community, said Rep. Quigley. I appreciate Stuart for letting me come out today to learn more about the caramel apple production process, the companys quality efforts and to meet with their hard-working employees. Rep. Quigleys visit included a tour of the factory with the president and CEO of Affy Tapple, Stuart Sorkin, who explained the process of making their famous caramel apples. Mr. Sorkin and Rep. Quigley discussed the companys long history in the community dating back to 1948, how the company is able to retain their experienced workforce, and issues facing the industry. I was impressed at how much Rep. Quigley knew about our industry already and his interest in learning more, said Mr. Sorkin. He also showed Rep. Quigley how the company gives back to the community through organizations like the Golden Apple foundation and their noticeable presence in surrounding schools. Rep. Quigley then began to work undercover as an operator on a sticking machine, which puts the sticks into the apple, applied toppings to gourmet apples, packaged products, and helped cook caramel. We enjoyed having Congressman Quigley see our facility and participate in our production process, said Mr. Sorkin. The employees were favorably impressed by his skills in performing some of their jobs. He learned firsthand how hard it is to make the perfect caramel apple! Rep. Quigley works on the assembly line at Affy Tapple adding sticks to what will become caramel covered apples. Rep. Quigley operated the sticking machine. Affy Tapple, Chicagos Original Caramel Apple, has been producing caramel apples for over 65 years and Mrs. Prindables, the nations originator of the gourmet apple gift, has been in the area since 1985. The company uses the mantra: Quality = product + process + people. Rep. Quigleys Undercover Congressman series connects him with constituents at their place of employment to better understand the daily challenges they face in their industry and community. Since taking office in 2009, Rep. Quigley has performed a wide range of jobs as an Undercover Congressman, including cleaning animal pens as a zookeeper at the Lincoln Park Zoo, packaging beer and cleaning tanks at Half Acre Brewery, pouring metal at a local metal refinery and delivering mail with the United States Post Office. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-confirmation-of-gayle-smith-to-head-usaid,Durbin Statement on Confirmation of Gayle Smith to Head USAID,2015-11-30,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.15 Durbin Statement on Confirmation of Gayle Smith to Head USAID WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement after the Senate voted 79-7 to confirm Gayle Smith, who was nominated to head the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on April 30th: USAID is charged with coordinating Americas response to humanitarian crises around the world, and the catastrophic civil war in Syria is the biggest humanitarian crisis of our time. While this tragedy unfolded throughout the year, giving rise to a massive refugee crisis in the Middle East and across Europe, Senate Republicans hamstrung USAIDs ability to fully function by not allowing Smiths nomination to come to the floor. With so much at stake for so many children and families, Im glad to see this critical agency finally has a confirmed administrator. The Syrian conflict has led to the worlds worst ongoing humanitarian crisis and the worst refugee crisis since World War II. Now in its 5th year, the Syrian Civil War has driven more than half of Syrias 23 million people from their homes. In September, the Obama Administration announced that the United States would take in at least 10,000 displaced Syrians over the next year. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-the-epas-final-rule-on-the-renewable-fuel-standard,Durbin Statement on the EPA's Final Rule on the Renewable Fuel Standard,2015-11-30,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.15 Durbin Statement on the EPA's Final Rule on the Renewable Fuel Standard [WASHINGTON, DC] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today made the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a final rule to establish the renewable volume obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Durbin was briefed on the announcement by EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy earlier today.The Renewable Fuels Standard was created by Congress more than ten years ago to drive growth in the biofuels industry. I am disappointed that the biofuels volume requirements announced by the EPA today are not higher, but thanks to input from thousands of farmers and industry partners, this rule is much stronger than the original proposal, said Durbin. I will continue working with Illinois stakeholders to ensure that our state is in a position to take advantage of federal resources to support the biofuels industry. In September, USDA awarded Illinois $11,979,912 in federal funding through the new Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership (BIP). Through this program, the USDA made $100 million available in grants to states like Illinois that are testing innovative ways to distribute higher blends of renewable fuel. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is using this funding to expand biofuels infrastructure in the state by 428 pumps at 65 fueling stations. Durbin and U.S. Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) wrote a letter of support for Illinois application to the program earlier this year. Since the EPA first announced a proposed change to the volume standards under the RFS program in late 2013, Durbin has led bipartisan efforts in Congress to revise the rule and better support the biofuels industry. Just last month, Durbin joined twelve of his Senate colleagues in a meeting with White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough. During the meeting, the Senators who represent a diverse group of states and stakeholders called for strong renewable volume obligations through 2017 to support homegrown ethanol production. Durbin has also worked with members of Illinois agriculture community and biofuels industry to evaluate the potential impact of the proposed waiver, and to develop a better alternative. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-invites-eleventh-district-residents-to-ask-an-astronaut,Foster Invites Eleventh District Residents To Ask An Astronaut,2015-11-27,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congressman Bill Foster launched a contest to invite residents of the Illinois Eleventh Congressional District to submit a question for a live discussion with Space Station astronauts. On Wednesday, December 2nd, Foster and members of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology will have the opportunity to participate in a discussion via a live satellite downlink from the International Space Station with NASA astronauts Scott Kelly and Kjell Lindgren. Each Member will have the opportunity to ask one question of the astronauts. Foster is inviting any resident of Illinois Eleventh Congressional District to submit questions. The winner will be selected and announced on Tuesday, December 1st. Questions can be submitted at: https://foster.house.gov/AskAnAstronaut All questions must be submitted by Noon Central on Tuesday, December 1st. Im excited to see what kind of questions Eleventh District residents come up with, and looking forward to a conversation that is out of this world, said Foster. I hope this will give students and adults an opportunity to consider a different perspective on our role in the world, and reflect on the technological progress humankind has made.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-following-release-of-laquan-mcdonald-shooting-video,Durbin Statement Following Release of Laquan McDonald Shooting Video,2015-11-25,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.25.15 Durbin Statement Following Release of Laquan McDonald Shooting Video SPRINGFIELDU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released the following statement after the Chicago Police Department released footage from a dashcam video showing the shooting of 17 year-old Laquan McDonald. Officer Jason Van Dyke has been charged with first-degree murder for the shooting. The violence in this video is shocking and upsetting. Our law enforcement officers protect and serve their communities with honor and courage, but those who fail to follow the high standards they have sworn to uphold must be held accountable. There is a legal process underway and that process should move forward in a fair and expeditious manner. I urge all Chicagoans to face this tragedy with peaceful resolve and not with violence. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-murphy-blumenthal-and-21-other-senators-urge-white-house-to-take-executive-action-to-reduce-gun-violence,"Durbin, Murphy, Blumenthal, and 21 Other Senators Urge White House to Take Executive Action to Reduce Gun Violence",2015-11-24,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.24.15 Durbin, Murphy, Blumenthal, and 21 Other Senators Urge White House to Take Executive Action to Reduce Gun Violence Urges President Obama to take executive action that could save lives by closing loophole in face of Congressional inaction [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT)and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and a group of 21 other senators in calling on President Barack Obama to investigate and pursue all possible options under his executive authority to reduce gun violence. In a letter to the President, the senators urged him to eliminate a loophole that currently allows individuals without a federal license to conduct high volumes of gun sales at gun shows, over the internet, and elsewhere, all without conducting background checks. U.S. Representative Mike Thompson (CA-5), Chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, today sent a similar letter signed by 114 of his colleagues in the House. We stand with you determined to take action to reduce the terrible epidemic of gun violence plaguing this nation. All across the country, communities are ravaged and lives are senselessly cut short by gun violence. Following yet another horrific mass shooting in Roseburg, Oregon, it is unthinkable that our country can continue to turn a blind eye to these tragedies, the Senators wrote. We urge you to address an aspect of the high-volume gun seller loophole that allows guns to be sold without a background check by eliminating the ambiguity surrounding the term engaged in the business as it pertains to federally licensed firearms dealers. Updating the definition of engaged in the business to provide more explicit guidance as to which gun sellers are required to obtain a federal firearms license wouldhelp ensure that individuals are not able to continue to exploit ambiguity in the current regulation and sell guns at a high volume without any oversight by ATF and without conducting background checks This change would be a positive step forward in achieving universal background checks, a policy change that roughly 90 percent of Americans support. It would help ensure that those clearly holding themselves out as gun dealers are held to the same standard as the thousands of responsible gun dealers already licensed with ATF across the country, the Senators continued. Durbin, Murphy and Blumenthal were joined by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Cory A. Booker (D-NJ), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Chris Coons (D-DE), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Al Franken (D-MN), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Charles E Schumer (D-NY), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). Read the full text of the letter online or below: President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500 Mr. President: We stand with you determined to take action to reduce the terrible epidemic of gun violence plaguing this nation. All across the country, communities are ravaged and lives are senselessly cut short by gun violence. Following yet another horrific mass shooting in Roseburg, Oregon, it is unthinkable that our country can continue to turn a blind eye to these tragedies. We will continue to make every effort to build support for and demand a vote on legislation to improve background checks, close loopholes, and shut down the illegal pipeline of guns. We will not give up the fight to improve our nations gun laws to reflect the broad agreement of gun owners and non-gun owners who want Congress to act to halt gun violence. We ask you, concurrently, to investigate and pursue all available options under your executive authority to reduce gun violence. Specifically, your administration could take an immediate step that would have an important impact on limiting gun violence. We urge you to address an aspect of the high-volume gun seller loophole that allows guns to be sold without a background check by eliminating the ambiguity surrounding the term engaged in the business as it pertains to federally licensed firearms dealers. Under current law, only licensed gun dealers are required to perform background checks for all gun sales, and only those individuals deemed to be ""engaged in the business"" of dealing in guns are required to obtain a license from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). However, the regulatory definition of ""engaged in the business,"" needs clarification. Currently, individuals are able to sell guns at a high volume at gun shows, over the internet, or elsewhere without ever becoming licensed and, in turn, without being compelled to conduct a simple background check before completing a sale. Updating the definition of engaged in the business to provide more explicit guidance as to which gun sellers are required to obtain a federal firearms license would not impact a father giving a gun to his son, or an individual selling his gun on the internet. But it will help ensure that individuals are not able to continue to exploit ambiguity in the current regulation and sell guns at a high volume without any oversight by ATF and without conducting background checks. This type of action is not without precedent, as many states have provided this type of explicit guidance regarding which vendors engaged in retail sales in the state are required to collect state sales tax. This change would be a positive step forward in achieving universal background checks, a policy change that roughly 90 percent of Americans support. It would help ensure that those clearly holding themselves out as gun dealers are held to the same standard as the thousands of responsible gun dealers already licensed with ATF across the country. Thank you for your continued efforts to reduce gun violence and for your consideration of executive action that could save lives. We look forward to continuing to work together to prevent gun violence. Sincerely, Sen. Christopher S. Murphy Sen. Richard Blumenthal Sen. Tammy Baldwin Sen. Cory A. Booker Sen. Barbara Boxer Sen. Sherrod Brown Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin Sen. Tom Carper Sen. Chris Coons Sen. Richard Durbin Sen. Dianne Feinstein Sen. Al Franken Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand Sen. Mazie K. Hirono Sen. Tim Kaine Sen. Edward J. Markey Sen. Robert Menendez Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski Sen. Patty Murray Sen. Jack Reed Sen. Brian Schatz Sen. Charles E Schumer Sen. Elizabeth Warren Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-senators-call-for-vote-on-legislation-to-close-egregious-loophole-that-allows-suspected-terrorist-to-purchase-guns-and-explosives,"Durbin, Senators Call for Vote on Legislation to Close Egregious Loophole that Allows Suspected Terrorist to Purchase Guns & Explosives",2015-11-24,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.24.15 Durbin, Senators Call for Vote on Legislation to Close Egregious Loophole that Allows Suspected Terrorist to Purchase Guns & Explosives In last decade, suspected terrorists attempted to purchase guns from American dealers at least 2,233 times & were cleared to do so in 91% of these instances [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined with Senate Democrats to urge Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Speaker Paul Ryan to quickly schedule votes on legislation that would close an egregious loophole and prevent individuals on the Federal Terrorist Watchlist from being able to purchase firearms and explosives that may be used in connection with terrorism. Under current law, a member of a terrorist organization is not prohibited from possessing firearms or explosives or from being able to purchase handguns or assault-style rifles. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that between 2004 and 2014, suspected terrorists attempted to exploit this loophole and purchase guns at least 2,233 times, succeeding in 2,043 of those instances, or 91 percent of the time. There is no reason why suspected terrorists who we consider too dangerous to board airplanes should be able to walk into any gun store in the United States and purchase a firearm or an explosive for the purpose of carrying out a terrorist act, the Senators wrote. In light of the horrific terrorist attacks in Paris, the need to pass such legislation is more imperative than ever so that the United States can address a serious national security and public safety weakness: the terrorist background check loophole that allows suspected terrorist to swiftly pass a background check and obtain a dangerous weapon. Todays letter was sent in support of legislation the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015 sponsored by U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and U.S. Representative Peter King (R-NY) that empowers the U.S. Attorney General to deny the transfer of firearms or the issuance of firearms and explosives licenses to suspected terrorists if it is reasonably believed those individuals may use firearms or explosives in connection with an act of terrorism, all while protecting legitimate gun owners rights to acquire guns or explosives. Text of todays letter is below: Dear Leader McConnell and Speaker Ryan, We write to urge you to quickly bring S. 551/H.R. 1076, the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015 to the Senate and House Floor for consideration and a vote. In light of the horrific terrorist attacks in Paris, the need to pass such legislation is more imperative than ever so that the United States can address a serious national security and public safety weakness: the terrorist background check loophole that allows suspected terrorist to swiftly pass a background check and obtain a dangerous weapon. There is no reason why suspected terrorists who we consider too dangerous to board airplanes should be able to walk into any gun store in the United States and purchase a firearm or an explosive for the purpose of carrying out a terrorist act. But today, suspected terrorists can legally purchase guns in the United Statesand theyre doing so, even while law enforcement may be investigating them or pursuing their arrest or indictment. According to a Government Accountability Office letter, between February 2004 and December 2014, individuals on the federal terrorist watchlist tried to buy or obtain a firearm or explosive license or permit at least 2,233 times. In 2,043 of those cases (91 percent of the time), the individuals successfully passed the background checks and were able to purchase the weapons or explosives. In 2013 and 2014, FBI data showed that individuals on the terrorist watchlist were involved in firearm-related background checks 485 times, and 455 of those (about 94%) were allowed to proceed. When over 90 percent of those on the terrorist watchlist who try to pass a background check succeed, it is absolutely clear we have a major vulnerability that could lead to deadly terrorist attacks. Indeed, the Washington Post reports that since March 2014, U.S. authorities have charged 66 men and women around the country with alleged ISIL activities, and that according to the FBI, in a handful of those cases, it has disrupted terrorism plots targeting U.S. military or law enforcement personnel. The Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015 will make our communities safer, including U.S. military and law enforcement personnel. It will prevent hundreds of gun purchases by suspected terrorists each year. Specifically the bill would allow the Attorney General to deny the transfer of firearms or the issuance of firearms and explosives licenses to suspected terrorists if it is reasonably believed those individuals may use firearms or explosives in connection with an act of terrorism. Importantly, the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015 provides important safeguards to protect a legitimate gun owners right to acquire firearms or explosives. The need to close the terrorist background check loophole should not be a partisan issue. The Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015 has received support from members of Congress in both parties. It is also supported by law enforcement and a broad cross-section of Americans. This and similar proposals have received support from both Republican and Democratic administrations, including the Justice Department under President George W. Bush. We urge you to quickly bring the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015 to the Senate and House floor for a vote. Republicans and Democrats alikeshould have the opportunity to do their part to keep our country safe by ensuring terrorists cannot obtain firearms and explosives. By passing the bill we could save American lives and help prevent terrorists from obtaining dangerous weapons. Sincerely, Harry Reid Richard J. Durbin Charles E. Schumer Patty Murray Patrick J. Leahy Barbara A. Mikulski Dianne Feinstein Barbara Boxer Ron Wyden Jack Reed Thomas R. Carper Debbie Stabenow Maria Cantwell Robert Menendez Bernard Sanders Sherrod Brown Robert P. Casey, Jr. Claire McCaskill Amy Klobuchar Sheldon Whitehouse Tom Udall Mark R. Warner Jeff Merkley Michael Bennet Kirsten Gillibrand Al Franken Chris Coons Richard Blumenthal Brian Schatz Tammy Baldwin Christopher Murphy Mazie K. Hirono Angus S. King, Jr. Tim Kaine Elizabeth Warren Edward J. Markey Cory A. Booker Gary Peters",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sec-seeks-to-increase-transparency-in-dark-pool-trading-following-foster,"SEC Seeks To Increase Transparency In Dark Pool Trading Following Foster, New Democrat Recommendations",2015-11-23,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCLast week, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proposed rules to increase transparency in dark pool trading. The proposal comes after Congressman Bill Foster and members of the New Democrat Coalition Financial Services Task Force urged the SEC to make the changes. In June, Foster and others wrote SEC Chair Mary Jo White asking the SEC to expand and standardize the information made available to the investing public by alternative trading systems (ATSs). A copy of the letter is available here. In July, Chair White responded, saying SEC staff is developing recommendations to expand the information that ATSs are required to disclose to the SEC and require ATSs to make operational information available to the public for the first time. A copy of the letter is available here. On November 18, the SEC officially proposed a rule making these changes. Details on their proposal are available here. The increased transparency will help investors make better informed decisions and could lower trading costs and increase market liquidity said Foster. As the SEC Chair Mary Jo White has said, the regulatory framework for ATSs is largely unchanged since its adoption in 1998. To develop these proposals, Foster and the New Democrat Coalition convened a series of meetings with industry participants. This is part of a broader effort to enhance transparency for investors and better facilitate capital formation. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-calls-on-gov-rauner-to-meet-with-syrian-refugee-families-in-illinois-before-thanksgiving,Durbin Calls on Gov. Rauner to Meet With Syrian Refugee Families in Illinois Before Thanksgiving,2015-11-23,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.23.15 Durbin Calls on Gov. Rauner to Meet With Syrian Refugee Families in Illinois Before Thanksgiving After Secs. Johnson and Kerry detail screening and resettlement process, Durbin asks Gov. Rauner to drop opposition to children and families fleeing ISIS terrorism themselves CHICAGOU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today sent a letter to Governor Bruce Rauner calling on him to drop his opposition to resettling Syrian refugees in the state of Illinois. After the horrific terrorist attacks in Paris last week, Republican governors and members of Congress rushed to block children, women, and families who are themselves fleeing ISIS terrorism. On Friday, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and Secretary of State John Kerry sent a letter to Gov. Rauner detailing the screening and resettlement process for refugees, who are the most thoroughly vetted of any travelers to our country. Durbin is also calling on Governor Rauner to meet with Syrian refugee families in Illinois in advance of this weeks Thanksgiving holiday, which was originally celebrated by European settlers who centuries ago sought refuge from persecution on foreign shores. Our shared highest priority is the safety of the people of Illinois, but lets be clear about where the greatest terrorism threat lies: not with children and families fleeing ISIS, but in glaring loopholes in the law that could allow what happened in Paris to happen somewhere in America, wrote Durbin. I urge you to end your opposition to the resettlement of Syrian refugees in Illinois and instead join me in working to close loopholes in the Visa Waiver Program and federal gun laws that truly endanger the safety of Illinoisans. Full text of Durbins letter to Governor Rauner: November 23, 2015 The Honorable Bruce Rauner Office of the Governor 207 State House Springfield, IL 62706 Dear Governor Rauner: I urge you to end your opposition to the resettlement of Syrian refugees in Illinois and instead join me in working to close loopholes in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and federal gun laws that truly endanger the safety of Illinoisans. The conflict in Syria is the epicenter of the worst humanitarian crisis of our time. More than half of Syrias 23 million people have been forced from their homes, and more than four million are registered as refugees, including approximately two million Syrian children. This tragedy was seared in our memory by the heartbreaking image of Alan Kurdi, the three-year-old Syrian boy who drowned in the Mediterranean. The United States has a long tradition of providing safe haven to refugees, and Illinois has played an important role in this proud history. Since the international communitys tragic failure to shelter Jewish refugees fleeing the Nazi genocide, the American people have welcomed millions of refugees fleeing war and totalitarian regimes. We should not abandon the good work of generations of Americans who came before us. On Friday, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson sent you the attached letter responding to your concerns about the security vetting of Syrian refugees. The facts are clear. Refugees are the most carefully vetted of all travelers to the United States, with in-person interviews and extensive biometric, biographic, and intelligence checks involving numerous agencies, including the National Counterterrorism Center, the FBIs Terrorist Screening Center, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of State and the Department of Defense. No refugees are admitted to the United States until after successful completion of this stringent security screening regime, which can take 18-24 months. Since the beginning of the Syrian conflict, the United States has admitted more than 2,000 Syrian refugees. None have been charged with involvement in terrorism, and only two percent are single men of military age. Please during this holiday season take the time to meet the Syrian refugees living in Illinois and personally learn their plights. You will learn that the careless and mean-spirited rhetoric from many political leaders does not reflect the reality of their sad lives. Our shared highest priority is the safety of the people of Illinois, but lets be clear about where the greatest terrorism threat lies: not with children and families fleeing ISIS, but in glaring loopholes in the law that could allow what happened in Paris to happen somewhere in America. One significant concern is the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows about 20 million foreign nationals, more than one-third of all foreign visitors, to travel to the United States before checking biometrics like fingerprints. Chicago, which hosts about 1.4 million foreign visitors every year and is home to the busiest airport in the world, is at particular risk. Every participant in the Paris attacks who has been publicly identified held a passport from a VWP country. Terrorists such as Richard Reid, the shoe bomber, and Zacarias Moussaoui, a 9/11 co-conspirator, have sought to enter the United States through the VWP. Only biographic (name-based) checks are conducted before VWP travelers are allowed to board airplanes and travel to the United States. Prior to departure, there are no checks against databases that use biometrics such as fingerprints. Fingerprint checks are conducted upon arrival in the United States, which is too late for a terrorist who might try to detonate an explosive on a plane. As U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr (R-NC) said: I would tell you, from a threat standpoint, Im probably more concerned with the visa waiver program today. Were I in Europe already, and I wanted to go the United States, and were I not on a watch list or a no-fly list and I wanted to get there, the likelihood is I would use the visa waiver program before I would try to pawn myself off as a refugee. Vulnerabilities in the VWP are aggravated by a loophole in federal law that permits VWP travelers to buy firearms. Current law prohibits visa holders from other countries from purchasing guns, but excludes travelers from the 38 VWP countries. In 1998, I authored a federal law that prohibits visiting foreign nationals from buying or possessing a firearm in the United States if the foreigner has been admitted to the United States under a nonimmigrant visa. In 2011, the U.S. Department of Justices Office of Legal Counsel determined that under the statute VWP travelers can legally purchase firearms because they have not technically been admitted to the United States under a nonimmigrant visa. Last week, I introduced S. 2323, the Visa Waiver Program Firearms Clarification Act, legislation that would close this loophole and clarify that the prohibition on buying firearms applies to foreign visitors whether they enter with a visa or not. Congress also must address another critical gap in our gun laws. Current federal law prohibits nine categories of dangerous people from possessing firearms (e.g., felons, the mentally unstable, fugitives, etc.) but not suspected terrorists. The Government Accountability Office found that from 2004-2014, people who were on the FBIs Terrorist Watchlist tried to buy guns from American gun dealers at least 2,233 times. In 2,043 of those cases 91 percent of the time these suspected terrorists were able to successfully buy the gun. I am an original cosponsor of S. 551, the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015, which would close this terror gap in our federal gun laws. In conclusion, I respectfully request that you support the resettlement of Syrian refugees in Illinois and encourage your Republican allies in Congress to work with Democrats to address the critical gaps in our security infrastructure outlined above. Rather than targeting a few thousand refugees who are themselves fleeing from terrorism and are the most thoroughly vetted travelers to the United States, you should focus on 20 million VWP travelers who travel to our country and our state every year without adequate security checks, as well as an unknown number of suspected terrorists who are able to legally purchase firearms and dangerous explosives. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, RICHARD J. DURBIN United States Senator",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-files-public-comment-in-support-of-scott-bid-to-house-new-nga-facility,Durbin Files Public Comment in Support of Scott Bid to House New NGA Facility,2015-11-23,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.23.15 Durbin Files Public Comment in Support of Scott Bid to House New NGA Facility Proposed Scott Air Force Base Site Would Bring 3,150 Jobs to St. Clair County Region [WASHINGTON, D.C.] In comments filed today with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) once again expressed his strong support for Scott Air Force Bases bid to house the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), known as NGA West, as part of the Army Corps public comment period. The agency is expected to make a final decision by spring 2016 after examining the finalist sites costs, relative merits and environmental qualities. I write to express my strong support for St. Clair County as the new home for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agencys (NGA) West Facilities Modernization, also known as NGA West, Durbin wrote. Locating it in close proximity to Scott Air Force Base best supports NGAs mission and organizational efficiency while also providing tremendous certainty and value to the taxpayer. Scott is the only finalist owned by a public entity St. Clair County. Last week, Durbin joined St. Clair County Chairman Mark Kern at Scott Air Force Base to announce that the County is prepared to offer an additional 200 acres to the NGA for future expansion. Durbin, who is the ranking member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, has also met with NGA Director Robert Cardillo and spoken with Director of National Intelligence James R. Clapper to discuss the benefits of Illinois proposal to house the program. Durbin has also toured the proposed site with Chairman Kern to learn more about what Illinois is offering the NGA. The NGA is an intelligence agency responsible for collecting, classifying and analyzing human activity around the world and providing map-based imagery data crucial to U.S. intelligence gathering. Its current St. Louis location is 100 years old and NGA has concluded that it would be too expensive to modernize the existing structure. The full text of todays letter is available below. November 23, 2015 Ms. Amy Blair U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Kansas City District 601 East 12th Street Kansas City, MO 64016 Dear Ms. Blair: I write to express my strong support for St. Clair County as the new home for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agencys (NGA) West Facilities Modernization, also known as NGA West. Locating it in close proximity to Scott Air Force Base best supports NGAs mission and organizational efficiency while also providing tremendous certainty and value to the taxpayer. St. Clair County is the strongest location for NGA West and twice has been named by the Air Force as the most supportive military community in the country. Its close proximity to Scott Air Force Base significantly, and uniquely, enhances NGAs mission by aligning it with partners like Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), U.S. Transportation Command, and major Air Force headquarters. All employees many of whom live in southern Illinois would enjoy smooth access to the base through high-quality public transportation and a new exit off the I-64 interchange, as well as a de facto one percent pay raise; active, reserve, and retired military personnel could also enjoy discount shopping at the bases commissary. In addition, Illinois also offers NGA a spacious, low-risk parcel of land, which will increase the likelihood that the project is constructed on-time and on-budget. Last week, Chairman Kern announced that St. Clair County could double the available land to 400 acres. As the Corps continues to refine its draft assessment of this area, I urge you to give full consideration to St. Clair Countys assessment submitted last week, which puts the draft environmental impact statements comments on archeological, airspace, and wetlands issues in their proper context alongside upcoming mitigation efforts. None of these issues will hold NGA back from realizing a strong, low-risk partnership with southern Illinois. I appreciate your full consideration of these issues and I look forward to St. Clair County as the new location for NGA West. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-pfizer-allergan-inversion,Durbin Statement on Pfizer-Allergan Inversion,2015-11-23,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.23.15 Durbin Statement on Pfizer-Allergan Inversion CHICAGOU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement regarding the merger between Pfizer and Ireland-based Allergan, which would create a roughly $160 billion inversion in order to avoid paying U.S. taxes: When corporations choose to invert and dont pay their fair share of taxes, they leave the rest of us to pick up the tab. That isnt right, and I hope Pfizer will reconsider. The Obama Administration has taken action to help curb this practice, but there are still loopholes in law that Congress must fix to eliminate incentives for companies to renounce their corporate citizenship and turn their backs on American taxpayers. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-recognizes-aurora-chamber-of-commerce-on-house-floor,Foster Recognizes Aurora Chamber of Commerce on House Floor,2015-11-20,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC On Wednesday, November 18, 2015, Congressman Bill Foster spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives recognizing the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce in Aurora, Illinois. Video of Fosters speech can be found here. Text of Fosters remarks as prepared is below: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce in Aurora, Illinois. For their dedication to hiring veterans in our community, the group recently received the Three Star Chamber of Valor Award by the United States Chamber of Commerce. They were recognized for their participation in the Hiring Our Heroes program and for encouraging local businesses to provide access to good-paying jobs for the men and women who have served out country in uniform. Of course they didnt do it on their own, so I would like to join the Camber in recognizing a few local businesses who have taken the lead in hiring and supporting veterans: Old Second Bank, Alarm Detection Systems, and The Studio at 46 West, a veteran owned business. I would also like to join the Chamber in recognizing the Roosevelt Aurora Post Number 84 of the American Legion for their work in serving the community. Id like to thank the members of the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce and all of the local businesses in our community who have made hiring veterans a priority.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-sends-letter-to-chairmen-of-ec-committee-requesting-climate-change,Rush Sends Letter to Chairmen of E&C Committee Requesting Climate Change Hearing,2015-11-20,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representatives Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) and Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) sent a letter to committee chairmen Fred Upton and Ed Whitfield requesting a climate change hearing. A recently released American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) report revealed the parallel between child health care and climate change.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/foster-votes-against-efforts-to-block-refugees-calls-for-serious,"Foster Votes Against Efforts To Block Refugees, Calls For Serious Discussion On Security",2015-11-19,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCToday, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) voted against H.R. 4038, the so called American SAFE Act of 2015, and released the following statement: Our first priority is to always keep Americans safe. I am disappointed that this legislation was not a serious attempt to address security concerns, but is instead a political football that would not improve the security of vetting systems already in place. This bill would attempt to set unworkable standards that could only be met by shutting the door to refugees. America has always been a place of refuge for those fleeing strife, and that should never change. The vast majority of these people are fleeing ISIS -- these are the families that have chosen to not live under terror and violence. Yes they need to be screened before entering the US, and the Administration has in place a time consuming and thorough process involving multiple intelligence and law enforcement agencies, including the National Counterterrorism Center, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Departments of Homeland Security, State, and Defense. Refugees coming into the US are screened more closely than any other group, in a process that takes 18 to 24 months. While we cannot ignore the serious security concerns that have been raised by the attacks in Paris, we need a thoughtful discussion on how to improve our system, not a Donald Trump style proposal to block all immigrants. I hope that we can move past the harmful rhetoric and fearmongering and towards a thoughtful debate with our intelligence community on what more can be done to ensure a workable refugee intake system while continuing to take every precaution to ensure our safety.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-on-syrian-refugee-bill,Quigley Statement on Syrian Refugee Bill,2015-11-19,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI), released the following statement in response to H.R. 4038, which provides legislation to amend the U.S. refugee admission process: Americans are understandably concerned about their safety following Fridays attacks in Paris, especially since ISIS has promised the same violence here. In response to the growing threat, we must ensure that our screening procedures for anyone coming to this country, including refugees, are as strong and secure as possible. But effectively ending the U.S. refugee resettlement program for both Syria and Iraq as the so-called American SAFE Act of 2015 would do distracts from the real threats facing this country and does little to enhance Americas security. We are capable of protecting the American people from terrorist attacks and providing refuge for some of the worlds most vulnerable populations at the same time. In this trying time, we need to rededicate ourselves to the values and ideals that make our country great and focus our efforts and resources on the strategies that keep Americans safe. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-sends-letter-to-illinois-governor-slamming-him-for-denying-syrian,Rush Sends Letter to Illinois Governor Slamming Him for Denying Syrian Refugees,2015-11-19,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.), joined by fellow Illinois House Democrats, sent a letter to Governor Bruce Rauner decrying his comments about accepting Syrian refugees into the state. The governors announcement comes in the wake of revelations that one of the terrorists who took part in the in Paris atrocities last week may have entered Europe using a Syrian passport. Rep. Rush is joined by several other notable members of the Illinois congressional delegation in condemning the governors stance on refugees, including Reps. Luis V. Gutirrez, Danny K. Davis, Janice D. Schakowsky, Bill Foster, Tammy Duckworth and Robin L. Kelly, who are all signatories to the letter. The letter highlights the historic role of the United States in providing a safe haven for those caught up in conflict, as well as the economic and social contributions made by immigrants to this country, which have helped to ensure its success. The authors acknowledge the legitimate concerns held by many Americans regarding this issue emphasizing the need for diligent security screening, especially in light of the horrific events in Paris. Nevertheless they maintain that the USA should not withdraw from its responsibility to those fleeing oppression. Rep. Rush added, We have to be hypersensitive to terrorists abusing Americas generosity in terms of extending our borders to a limited group of Syrian refugees. We cannot close our borders off exclusively to any immigrant group based on creed, color, religion or sexual orientation. We have systems in place to ensure that those that seek to harm us are not allowed in this country and as long as we are diligent in using those systems we are up to the challenge to protect ourselves from any terrorist attack. The flow of immigrants fueled the rapid, unsurpassed promise of this nation. To turn the spigot off now will be turning our backs on our past and our future. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=2855,Rep. Lipinski Statement on American SAFE Act Vote,2015-11-19,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) released the following statement after voting to require new screening requirements on refugees from Syria and Iraq before they can enter the United States: The United States has historically been a refuge for those who are fleeing war and violence, and we must remain so. But the November 13thParis terrorist attacks once again demonstrate that America must constantly work to reassess and strengthen our national security. Some have said our response to the attacks should be simply to close our country off to everyone. I dont support that. But after listening to top American security officials, I believe there is more we can do to make sure that we are not permitting people who are threats to our nation to enter as refugees. While most of those seeking asylum in the United States are well-meaning families, children, and women fleeing the horrific war and terrorism in Syria, Iraq, and the surrounding countries, we need to have the highest level of certainty that no threats to the U.S. from ISIL or other groups enter under the cover of refugee status. The FBI, DHS, intelligence agencies, and others have been undertaking a lengthy vetting process for those who are being let in. But I think it will help strengthen our security to require extra steps to be taken to assure the concurrence of all intelligence and security agencies before allowing any Syrian or Iraqi refugee entrance into our country. This does not mean that we should turn our backs on all those refugees who are suffering. It is a horrific situation in Syria and Iraq, including groups such as ISIL committing genocide. The United States has been very generous and should continue to be generous in our financial support and other humanitarian assistance that we are providing to support refugees in camps in Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon. I also believe there is more we could do to help end the wars in Syria and Iraq that would help alleviate the refugee crisis. American leadership is critical to ending the immense suffering that is ongoing in the region. As the crisis continues and we examine our refugee policy, security for America must be paramount and we cannot afford the risk of another terrorist attack here in the United States. We must maintain American security so that we can remain that shining city on the hill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-bill-would-close-gun-loophole-in-visa-waiver-program,Durbin Bill Would Close Gun Loophole in Visa Waiver Program,2015-11-19,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.19.15 Durbin Bill Would Close Gun Loophole in Visa Waiver Program 9/11 co-conspirator Zacarias Moussaoui and shoe-bomber Richard Reid both used the Visa Waiver Program to travel to the United States WASHINGTONAssistant Senate Democratic Leader Dick Durbin (D-IL) today introduced legislation to close a loophole in federal law that permits foreign nationals who have entered the United States through the Visa Waiver Program to buy and wield firearms. Current law prohibits visa holders from other countries from purchasing guns, but excludes travelers from the 38 Visa Waiver Program countries. The horrific terror attacks in Paris last week have given new urgency to protecting our own communities from similar terrorism, said Durbin. But lets be absolutely clear about where the greatest threat lies. It is not in the refugee children, women, and families who are the most carefully screened travelers to America. We know that dangerous people like Zacarias Moussaoui and Richard Reid have used the relatively light screening of the Visa Waiver Program to seek entry into the U.S., and we know that current law does not block visitors from Visa Waiver countries from buying and possessing firearms. Its time to close this loophole that terrorists could very easily exploit to get guns and use them to kill in this country. Since 1998, federal law has prohibited visiting foreign nationals from buying or possessing a firearm in the United States if the foreigner has been admitted to the United States under a nonimmigrant visa. This 1998 provision, which was authored by Senator Durbin, was enacted after Ali Hassan Abu Kamal shot seven people at the Empire State Building in 1997. For years, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives interpreted this provision to prohibit the sale of firearms to all foreign visitors, not just those visitors who required a visa to be admitted to the United States. In other words, the provision was construed to apply both to visaholders and to foreigners who visited the United States through the Visa Waiver Program. However, the Justice Departments Office of Legal Counsel reconsidered this interpretation in 2011 and determined that under the statute foreign nationals entering the country through the Visa Waiver Program could legally purchase firearms because they had not technically been admitted to the United States under a nonimmigrant visa. There is serious risk in permitting Visa Waiver Program participants to come to the United States and buy firearms. Richard Reid, the shoe bomber, is a British citizen who flew to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. Zacarias Moussaoui, a 9/11 co-conspirator and French citizen, also entered the U.S. through the Visa Waiver Program. Under current regulations, foreign nationals from any of the 38 current Visa Waiver Program countries can easily travel to the United States, buy a gun, and use it to cause harm. Durbins bill would close this Visa Waiver Program loophole and clarify that the prohibition on buying firearms applies to foreign visitors whether they come with a visa or not. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-history-will-judge-how-congress-responds-to-paris-terror-attacks,Durbin: History Will Judge How Congress Responds to Paris Terror Attacks,2015-11-19,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.19.15 Durbin: History Will Judge How Congress Responds to Paris Terror Attacks Durbin: When President Hollande of France announced that his country would receive 30,000 refugees AFTER this attack he made it clear that he would not hold those innocent, helpless refugees accountable for the terrible misdeeds of these terrorists. WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) took to the Senate floor today to speak out against a slew of Republican proposals to respond to the Paris terror attacks by closing the door on Syrian refugees fleeing similar terrorism and violence in their own country: We will reflect in years to come about what happened in this world in the last week. We will reflect on the terrible tragedy that occurred in Paris, France, in Beirut, and other nations that was led by ISIS terrorists. We will reflect on those poor victims who died as a result of their terrorist acts. And we will also reflect on acts of heroism and wisdom that emerged from this terrible tragedy. Heroism on the ground in Paris and other places from those who defied these terrorists, and those who risked their lives to bring those responsible to justice. And the wisdom and compassion shown by leaders around the world not to exploit this situation. When President Hollande of France announced that his country would receive 30,000 refugees AFTER this attack he made it clear that he would not hold those innocent, helpless refugees accountable for the terrible misdeeds of these terrorists. When the nation of Canada said that they would accept thousands of refugees even after the Paris attack, they showed the wisdom and good sense to differentiate those helpless victims of terrorism around the world, who are seeking refuge on our shores, from those who perpetrated these terrorist acts. And listen to the debate on Capitol Hill. Listen to the unanimous consent request made this morning by the junior Senator from Texas. It is not consistent with that ethic. It is not consistent with those values. To say that we will only accept refugees who are the victims of genocide would close the doors to Cuban refugees who came to the United States to escape all of communism and what it meant to their families. It would have closed the doors to Soviet Jews persecuted in that country, who were looking for freedom and came to the United States as refugees. I can list countless others, who were not the victims of genocide, but they were the victims of persecution. They were from war-torn countries. They were the victims, as Senator Leahy has said, of gang rape and terrorism. Listen to what has been said on the other side of the Rotunda and in this chamber today. It does not merit the kind of appreciation of American values which we insist on when we make these critical decisions. In time of war, in time of attack, sometimes rash decisions are made. I predict that in the course of history, as people in the future reflect on what happened in the United States Senate and the House of Representatives this week, they will hope that saner voices would have prevailed. Video of Durbins remarks is available here. Audio of Durbins remarks is available here. Footage of Durbin remarks is available for TV Stations using FTP in high definition here and in standard definition here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-hosts-illinois-members-at-bipartisan-delegation-luncheon-1119,Durbin Hosts Illinois Members at Bipartisan Delegation Luncheon,2015-11-19,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.19.15 Durbin Hosts Illinois Members at Bipartisan Delegation Luncheon [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today hosted members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation at the sixth bipartisan Illinois Congressional Delegation Luncheon of the 114th Congress. Started by the late U.S. Senator Alan J. Dixon, the Illinois Delegation Luncheon has been held regularly in Washington, DC at no expense to the federal taxpayer for more than 25 years. A photo of todays luncheon is available here. The luncheon today was attended by seven members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation: U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Representative Rodney Davis (R-IL), U.S. Representative Bob Dold (R-IL), U.S. Representative Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Representative Bill Foster (D-IL), U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL). Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=2846,Rep. Lipinski and Sen. Murphy Lead Effort to Strengthen Buy America Provisions in Surface Transportation Bill to Create More American Jobs,2015-11-18,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Lipinski from Illinois and Senator Chris Murphy from Connecticut are fighting to protect and bolster Buy America provisions in the critical surface transportation reauthorization bill. As the most senior member from Illinois on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Lipinski helped pass a bipartisan six-year transportation bill in the House earlier this month. Following its passage, he was chosen to serve on the conference committee that will work out the differences between the House and Senate versions of this important legislation. In a letter to the House and Senate conferees, Lipinski and Murphy urge members to preserve certain aspects of both bills that strengthen Buy America provisions and boost American manufacturing, and to reject parts of the Senate bill that would weaken the Buy America requirements of the bill. With an opportunity to pass the first truly long-term surface transportation reauthorization since 2005, it is imperative that this law does everything possible to improve American infrastructure and create jobs for people around the country. We support provisions in both bills that increase the domestic content of rolling stock procured with Federal Transit Administration funds from 60% to 70%, said Lipinski and Murphy in the letter. This modest increase is phased in incrementally over the next five years and will ensure that equipment used and paid for by taxpayers is manufactured with a higher percentage of American-made materials. These provisions should be maintained in the final conference report, along with part of the House-passed bill which makes Buy America compliance an eligible activity for technical assistance and will help the transit community comply with these important requirements. Lipinski and Murphy are also encouraging committee members to maintain provisions found in the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015 (PRRIA) as they reconcile differences between that legislation and the rail title included in the Senate bill. Part of PRRIA codifies Buy America requirements for Railroad Rehabilitation & Improvement Financing (RRIF) loans, a program that has the capacity to provide $35 billion in direct loans and loan guarantees for rail infrastructure improvements. As the House and Senate work to modernize this program in a manner that allows more applicants to utilize and spend down its balance, it is necessary that this program abides by domestic content standards that are applicable to other transportation investment programs. While the House and Senate bills contain the positive aforementioned provisions, there are two troubling provisions that Lipinski and Murphy are urging the committee to reject. First, part of the Senate bill increases Amtraks procurement threshold for Buy America applicability from $1 million to $5 million. Had this increased threshold been in place for this fiscal year, at least 85% of Amtraks anticipated capital projects would have been exempt from Buy America requirements. Additionally, this increase opens the possibility of procurements being segmented into smaller contracts to avoid meeting the new threshold, thus creating even more Buy America exemptions. Second, another aspect of the Senate bill changes how waiver requests for transit procurements are handled. Specifically, a provision in this section would shift responsibilities and burdens of proof in the waiver process in a manner that would make granting Buy America waivers easier. This would undermine successful past efforts to strengthen the waiver process to make it more accountable and effective and it should not be included. It is essential that this surface transportation reauthorization bill improve our nations infrastructure and create jobs for our workforce, stated Lipinski and Murphy to the conference committee members. A strong Buy America component is crucial to this effort and we strongly encourage you to hold firm in strengthening our Buy America laws.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-blumenthal-statement-on-doj-federal-agencies-bringing-criminal-and-civil-charges-against-more-than-100-dietary-supplement-makers-and-marketers,"Durbin, Blumenthal Statement on DOJ, Federal Agencies Bringing Criminal and Civil Charges Against More than 100 Dietary Supplement Makers and Marketers",2015-11-18,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.18.15 Durbin, Blumenthal Statement on DOJ, Federal Agencies Bringing Criminal and Civil Charges Against More than 100 Dietary Supplement Makers and Marketers [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) issued the following statement after the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that, along with numerous federal agencies, it is pursuing criminal and civil charges against over 100 makers and marketers of dietary supplements for fraudulent claims: The breadth and scope of todays sweeping enforcement actions against a broad range of dietary supplement manufacturers illustrates how frequently consumers are being deceived about the safety, quality, purity, and origin of the supplements they take every day. While we are pleased to learn of this unprecedented cooperation among the Department of Justice, Federal Trade Commission, Food and Drug Administration, and many other federal agencies, news of these actions further supports the need for comprehensive federal regulation to truly protect consumers from both intentional, serious harm and misleading health claims from dietary supplement manufacturers. We will be re-introducing comprehensive legislation to address deleterious gaps in oversight and transparency in the dietary supplement industry and will continue working with all agencies to ensure consumers are better protected. Furthermore, we commend the Department of Defense for taking meaningful action to educate military personnel, but more needs to be done to protect them from the riskiest dietary supplements - many of which should not be sold on military installations at all. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-gao-report-shows-need-for-dod-to-make-maximum-use-of-armys-strategic-plan-on-arsenals,Durbin: GAO Report Shows Need for DOD to Make Maximum Use of Army's Strategic Plan on Arsenals,2015-11-18,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.18.15 Durbin: GAO Report Shows Need for DOD to Make Maximum Use of Army's Strategic Plan on Arsenals Report requested by Illinois and Iowa Senators recommends steps to maximize Rock Island Arsenals workload [WASHINGTON, DC] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today made the following statement after reviewing the recommendations contained in a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report he requested along with U.S. Senators Mark Kirk (R-IL) and Chuck Grassley (R-IL) and former U.S. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IL) as part of the Fiscal Year 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Next month, Durbin will be meeting with President Obamas nominee to be Secretary of the Army, Eric Fanning, to discuss this report. This report provides an important, independent third party review of how the Department of Defense is using capabilities at three Arsenals including Rock Island Arsenal designated as Centers of Industrial and Technical Excellence, said Durbin. It confirms what we already know: that the Department of Defense is underutilizing these Arsenals and lacks a strategic plan to increase workloads. There has been some progress over the last couple of years: new workload has increased, the Humvee production line has been renewed, operations are more efficient and the JMTC receives almost 35% of its work from non-Army sources. But more can be done, and I look forward to discuss the results of this report in an upcoming meeting with President Obamas Army Secretary nominee. The GAOs report assesses the extent to which the Army has fully implemented its strategic plan for arsenals a plan itself first created by Durbin and the Quad Cities delegation in 2012 and outlines areas in need of additional attention. The report recommends that the Department of Defense issue implementing guidance for make-or-buy analyses; identify fundamental elements for implementing its strategic plan; and develop and implement its process for identifying critical capabilities and the minimum workload level needed to sustain them As the Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, Durbin has worked to: Improve Rock Island Arsenals Competitiveness: The Omnibus Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2015 includes $225 million in funding for Industrial Mobilization Capacity (IMC) to help arsenals keep their work rates competitive. This funding helps Rock Island Arsenal and other arsenals compete more effectively for public-private partnerships and other business to help sustain capacity, cost efficiency and technical competence in peacetime, while preserving the ability to provide an effective and timely response to mobilizations, national defense contingency situations and other emergent requirements. Durbin included a similar provision in the Department of Defense Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2014. Extend Rock Island Arsenals Humvee Ambulance Production Line: In April, Durbin and U.S. Representative Cheri Bustos (D-IL) announced the extension of the Rock Island Arsenals Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center production line for two years as a result of the $60 million they added to the Fiscal Year 2015 Defense Appropriations bill. Ensure a Steady, Higher Level Workload: Durbin has worked to include language in Fiscal Year 2014 NDAA directed the Secretary of the Army to maintain a minimum workload at Rock Island Arsenal (and the arsenals in New York and Arkansas). This is similar to a provision Durbin originally authored as part of his Defense Appropriation Bill for Fiscal Year 2014 to require the Secretary of the Army to maintain a minimum workload at arsenals as calculated by the Army Organic Industrial Base Strategy Report. Durbin also included a similar directive in the Defense Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2015, and this appropriator-authorizer consensus for the first time this year sends a strong signal of Congressional support for arsenals. Putting Arsenals on a Level Playing Field with Other Military Installations: The Fiscal Year 2014 NDAA also included a provision that eliminates the Secretary of the Armys current authority to close an arsenal if he deems it necessary. This provision puts arsenals on a level playing field with other military installations, and ensures that any change in status can only be made through a standard process. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-murray-join-18-senators-to-request-report-on-effectiveness-of-public-health-programs-designed-to-impact-gun-safety,"Durbin, Murray Join 18 Senators to Request Report on Effectiveness of Public Health Programs Designed to Impact Gun Safety",2015-11-18,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.18.15 Durbin, Murray Join 18 Senators to Request Report on Effectiveness of Public Health Programs Designed to Impact Gun Safety [WASHINGTON, D.C.] Today, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and 18 Senate Democratic colleagues in writing a letter to Gene L. Dodaro, Comptroller General of the United States, requesting a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report to assess the efficacy of public health and safety programs that are designed to impact gun safety, including the storage and security of guns in households. In the letter, the Senators stated that prevention of gun deaths and injuries should be an essential component of the federal governments commitment to public health and safety, and that previous federal campaigns on other challenges have helped to reduce dangerous behavior and improve public health and safety. With more than 300 million guns in American homes, we write to request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a study to assess the efficacy of public health and safety programs designed to impact gun safety, including the storage and security of guns in households throughout our country, the Senators wrote in the letter. Too many families have suffered tragic losses and hardships as a result of gun deaths and injuries. This public health burden demands an assessment of potential actions by the federal government, including the possibility of robust partnerships with established nonprofits and provider organizations in the development of a public campaign aimed at informing physicians, clinicians, parents, and families about the public health need to address this urgent issue. The Senators requested a report that: analyzes the effectiveness of public health and safety programs at the federal, state, and local level that raise awareness and provide best practices for safe and secure storage of guns in households; identifies programs that seek to address unsafe gun access and ensure safe practices with regards to firearms; and details which federal agencies can influence public health or safety, childrens health, criminal justice, or violence prevention programs. Senators requesting the report: Patty Murray (D-WA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), Thomas Carper (D-DE), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Christopher Murphy (D-CT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full text of the letter is available below. Dear Mr. Dodaro: Every day on average, 55 people kill themselves with a firearm, and 46 people are shot or killed in an accident with a gun. The Washington Post reported last month that so far in 2015 there have been 43 instances where a toddler three or under has shot themselves or others, leading to 15 fatalities and 28 injuries. With more than 300 million guns in American homes, we write to request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a study to assess the efficacy of public health and safety programs designed to impact gun safety, including the storage and security of guns in households throughout our country. Death and injury by firearm is one of the most significant public health threats to young people in communities across our nation. While long perceived as an urban issue, in fact, youth (up to age 19) in the most rural U.S. counties are almost as likely to die from a gunshot, self-inflicted or otherwise, as those living in the most urban counties. Furthermore, a 1999 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association estimated that the lifetime medical cost of treating gunshot injuries in the United States was $2.3 billion, with almost half the costs borne by taxpayers. Given these stark statistics, prevention of gun deaths and injuries should be an essential component of the federal governments commitment to public health and safety along with other efforts such as background checks on gun purchases and closing other gun loopholes. Federal campaigns, such as those related to drinking and driving and smoking, have demonstrated that public health and safety campaigns can improve understanding and reduce dangerous behavior, with significant public health benefits. Too many families have suffered tragic losses and hardships as a result of gun deaths and injuries. This public health burden demands an assessment of potential actions by the federal government, including the possibility of robust partnerships with established nonprofits and provider organizations in the development of a public campaign aimed at informing physicians, clinicians, parents, and families about the public health need to address this urgent issue. To that end, we request that GAO conduct a report that: Analyzes the impacts of existing publicly- and privately-operated public health and safety programs at the federal, state, and local level that further raise awareness among the public of the risk factors associated with having guns in the home and provide best practices on how families and communities can engage in a conversation about the safe and secure storage of guns in the household. Identifies existing public health and safety programs (publicly- and privately-operated efforts at the federal, state, and local level) that seek to address unsafe gun access and to ensure safe practices with regards to firearms. Inventories federal agencies whose missions relate to public health or violence prevention and the ways in which programs described under question number one relate to such missions. Such programs can include public health or safety, childrens health, criminal justice, or violence prevention programs. We appreciate your attention to this request and your cooperation on this issue as we seek more information on these issues.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gutierrez.house.gov/press-release/rep-guti%C3%A9rrez-says-refusing-refugees-%E2%80%9C-despicable-and-cowardly-and-precisely-kind,Rep. Gutirrez Says Refusing Refugees Is Despicable and Cowardly and Precisely the Kind of Reaction ISIS Wanted,2015-11-17,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Luis Gutiérrez,G000535,gutierrez.house.gov,,,legacy,"In Floor Speech, Gutirrez Decries Illinois Rauner and other Governors, saying ISIS could not have written a better script. Washington, DC Today, Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez (D-IL) spoke on the House floor (at approximately 10:00 a.m. ET) in response to Governor Rauner of Illinois and a dozen or more mostly Republican governors who said their states would refuse to take refugees fleeing terror and the Assad regime in Syria. Governors do not actually have this power, so their executive orders and pronouncements have overstepped their bounds, but Rep. Gutirrez called their rejection of refugees despicable and cowardly and exactly the kind of reaction ISIS wanted in response to the Paris terror attacks. Rep. Gutirrez said: When we sent Jews back to Germany and when we sent Japanese to internment camps, we regretted it and we will regret this as well. We have had candidates actually say that refugees seeking safety in the strongest nation in the world must first pass a test to prove they are from an acceptable religion. In the United States of America, they said this. In the 21st century. Rep. Gutirrez also said: Let us, as legislators, leaders and patriots, rise above petty politics, rise above sectarian fears, rise above the underlying layer of xenophobia that often surfaces in this country at moments like this throughout our history. And let us maintain Americas commitment to being a beacon of hope for those fleeing oppression, violence, and intolerance; A haven for the religiously persecuted, whether they are Buddhists from Tibet, Christians from Iran, or Pilgrims from Europe. That is who we are. A video of the Congressmans floor speech is here: https://youtu.be/4f4FlVujVKY The text, as prepared for delivery, is below. The Congressman participates today in a hearing of the Judiciary Committee on Department of Justice oversight with Attorney General Loretta Lynch at which the subject of the Paris attacks, Syrian refugees and security will be discussed. The Immigration Subcommittee is also scheduled to hold a hearing on Syrian refugees on Thursday. Rep. Gutirrez represents the Fourth District of Illinois, is a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, is a Member of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, and is the Co-Chair of the Immigration Task Force of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. He was one of the main subjects in the FRONTLINE PBS documentary Immigration Battle, that aired on Tuesday, October 20 and can be streamed online. Rep. Luis V. Gutirrez Remarks 11/17/2015 We are shocked, horrified, and deeply saddened by the news coming from Paris. As a Member of the Intelligence Committee, I know that there is much to fear both for our allies and for us. But in light of the attacks on our ally France last Friday, I urge my colleagues to keep a cool head and not react in exactly the way that ISIS and other terrorists hope we do: with fear, with chaos, and with lashing out. But sadly, that is what we have already seen Republican Governors, elected leaders, candidates, and media figures doing. I have been here long enough to know a thing or two about opportunism. Maybe it is too much to resist when you are one of 15 candidates for President. Politicians, pundits, and celebrities will be tempted to say whatever they can to get the news cameras pointed at them. The Governor of Illinois, my home state, could not resist saying our state was closed to Syrians fleeing the terror of ISIS and the Assad regime. The Governor of Louisiana, the son of immigrants running for President of a nation of immigrants said no to refugees. The Governors of a dozen other states did too. And Texans the ones who say dont mess with Texas well, their governor says that they are terrified of refugees so Texas will not take them, either. This is despicable and cowardly and precisely the kind of reaction ISIS wanted. ISIS could not have written a better script. The free people of the world are turning their backs on people seeking safety and freedom. When we sent Jews back to Germany and when we sent Japanese to internment camps, we regretted it and we will regret this as well. We have had candidates actually say that refugees seeking safety in the strongest nation in the world must first pass a test to prove they are from an acceptable religion. In the United States of America, they said this. In the 21st century. Now, of course the Governors of Illinois, Texas, Louisiana, and most of the other states that are scared of ISIS are Republicans. And, because it is a federal matter, they are overstepping their powers with executive orders, because they cannot actually stop refugees from resettling in their states. Instead they have instructed state agencies not to assist people fleeing terror. We are a better country than that. No matter how scared Republican leaders become, we must not abandon our commitment to being a nation without equal in the world; a nation that does not fear or shy away from any challenge. It is our commitment to religious equality and the freedom to worship-as-we-please that has made us a great nation and this is no time to abandon it. Our bravery, the bravery of our military, and the bravery of our commitment to freedom and equality have shown -- for almost 250 years -- what American exceptionalism is all about. It is not the time to lose sight of ourselves and say America is too weak; America cannot handle 20,000 or 200,000 refugees fleeing for their lives. It is not the time for America to consider raising the white flag and say to those waiving the black flag, Yes ISIS, you are right, we dislike and fear Muslims and do not care if they perish or not. A lot of us love this country too much to see it abandon core principles and values because religious extremists commit acts of terror designed precisely to terrorize us. On Thursday, the Immigration Subcommittee will hold a hearing on refugees from Syria and the Middle East. You can already imagine what we will hear. Republicans will most likely raise fears that Muslim terrorists, disguised as refugees, would somehow pass exhaustive criminal background checks because they have been lying in wait in these camps overseas for years on the slim chance they could do damage to America. They will raise suspicion, instill fear of Muslims, maybe even fear of a President they say is a Muslim, and it will probably be a pretty sad display. Let us, as legislators, leaders and patriots, rise above petty politics, rise above sectarian fears, rise above the underlying layer of xenophobia that often surfaces in this country at moments like this throughout our history. And let us maintain Americas commitment to being a beacon of hope for those fleeing oppression, violence, and intolerance. A haven for the religiously persecuted, whether they are Buddhists from Tibet, Christians from Iran, or Pilgrims from Europe. That is who we are. We are a nation that lives by the motto E Pluribus Unum out of many, one and we will not run in fear from that motto today or any day. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-announces-formation-of-transgender-equality-task-force,Quigley Announces Formation of Transgender Equality Task Force,2015-11-17,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), Vice-Chair of the Equality Caucus, joined a group of Democratic colleagues to announce the formation of the Transgender Equality Task Force. The Task Force will analyze current barriers to full legal and societal equality for transgender people, and will develop legislation and other initiatives to ensure the transgender community has equal access to the American Dream. This past year has been an amazing one for progress, but we cant stop now. Despite the recent gains in legal and social recognition at the federal and state levels, transgender Americans remain extremely vulnerable to harassment and violence, said Rep. Quigley. Im hopeful that with this new voice in Washington, the Transgender Equality Task Force can start to move the needle on this issue because the status quo of violence and poverty in the transgender community is unacceptable. Rep. Quigley (at podium) speaks about the formation of the Transgender Equality Task Force with LGBT Equality Caucus Members and transgender activists, including Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (far right). Following the announcement, Rep. Quigley participated in a congressional forum on transgender violence with leaders on the issue from Transgender People of Color Coalition, National Center for Transgender Equality, Human Rights Campaign, National Black Justice Coalition, and Center for American Progress. The panel represented the voices of organizations dedicated to the eradication of bias motivated violence against transgender people. The witnesses described the work their organizations are doing on a policy level and recommended ways Congress can act to end the epidemic of violence. Todays forum on violence against transgender people was truly eye opening. It is crucially important that lawmakers are equipped with data and statistics that help quantify the challenges that transgender Americans deals with violence, homelessness, housing, unemployment as a first step to developing real world, practical policy solutions. And todays conversation with the leading voices for transgender Americans was helpful in that effort, said Rep. Quigley. I look forward to future conversations through my role on the Transgender Equality Task Force and ensuring equality for all Americans. From left to right: Rep. Alan Lowenthal (CA-47), Rep. Mike Quigley (IL-05), Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02), and Rep. Steny Hoyer (MD-05). Since his election to Congress in 2009, Rep. Quigley has been a tireless advocate for the LGBT community. At the start of the 114th Congress, Rep. Quigley was named a Vice-Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus. He has hosted numerous Equality Caucus briefings around the economics of equality, which explore economic equality in the LGBT community and how Congress can better address this critical issue. In January 2015, he became an original cosponsor of the International Human Rights Defense Act. Previously, he called on Illinois state legislators to pass marriage equality and celebrated when that day came. He is a co-sponsor of the original Respect for Marriage Act of 2009, and has lent his support to the national NOH8 Campaign, a global visual art protest against legislation banning gay marriage. Prior to the Supreme Court overturning the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 2013, Rep. Quigley was a critical opponent of the law and hosted a DOMA field forum to investigate the negative impacts of the law on individuals and families in Chicago. In the fall of 2009, Rep. Quigley was inducted into the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame for his work as a Cook County Commissioner to extend benefits to LGBT employees. TheCongressional LGBT Equality Caucuswas established in the U.S. House of Representatives in June 2008 by Co-Chairs Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Barney Frank (D-MA), along with Members of Congress who were strongly committed to achieving the full enjoyment of human rights for LGBT people in the United States and around the world. The Caucus serves as a resource for Members of Congress and their staff and works toward the extension of equal rights, the repeal of discriminatory laws, the elimination of hate-motivated violence, and the improved health and well-being for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-education-department-to-provide-additional-relief-to-corinthian-students,Durbin: Education Department to Provide Additional Relief to Corinthian Students,2015-11-17,2015,2015-11,Democrat,House,IL,Richard Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.17.15 Durbin: Education Department to Provide Additional Relief to Corinthian Students Decision could provide expedited relief to Illinois students who attended Everest University online programs [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today commended the announcement of additional expedited federal student loan relief to students of the now bankrupt Corinthian Colleges, Inc. following a joint investigation between the Department of Education and California Attorney General Kamala Harris. The investigation found that Corinthian Colleges, Inc.s Everest and Wyotech locations in California and online Everest University programs misrepresented their placement rates to prospective and current students. Illinois students who attended one of Corinthians Everest University online programs may be eligible for expedited relief based on todays announcement. Todays announcement follows a meeting between Durbin, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, Joseph Smith, Special Master appointed by the Department of Education to oversee the federal student debt relief process for former Corinthian students, and several students who attended the schools Illinois campuses and remain buried in federal student loan debt. Additional information on their November 6 meeting can be found on Durbins WEBSITE. The evidence is clear: for-profit Corinthian Colleges defrauded the federal government and its students. In just one instance revealed today by the Department of Education, Corinthian claimed one of its automotive programs had a 100% job placement rate when in reality, the college placed zero students, said Durbin. Expedited relief to students of these schools including some in Illinois who attended Everest University online is welcome news. In October, a federal district court judge ordered the bankrupt Corinthian Colleges, Inc. to repay $531 million to the now-shuttered schools former students. The decision came in a lawsuit brought by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) against Corinthian Colleges, Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. In the lawsuit, the CFPB alleged that Corinthian engaged in illegal deceptive practices including making misrepresentations about prospective students career opportunities, presenting falsified and overstated job placement rates, and misrepresenting the availability and utility of its career services. In December 2013, Durbin sent a letter to the Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, asking him to investigate Corinthian Colleges, Inc. and their fraudulent marketing practices which included a subsidy program for employers to hire graduates temporarily and inflating job placement rates to lure new students to enroll. In February, following an investigation, the Department of Education took action against Corinthian Colleges, Inc. by denying the companys pending new program applications and increased scrutiny in light of deceptive job placement practices. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z