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://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/carson-statement-on-his-attendance-at-the-icna-chicago-convention,Carson Statement on Attending the ICNA Chicago Convention,2014-12-31,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"INDIANAPOLIS - Today, Congressman André Carson released the following statement in response to his attendance at the ICNA (Islamic Circle of North America) Chicago convention last weekend. On Saturday, December 27, I attended the ICNA Chicago convention to deliver a speech on the importance of civil engagement and developing leaders in the community.    On Sunday, December 28, I learned that ICNA had also scheduled me to sit on a Ferguson panel Saturday night – which I had not planned on participating in.  At no point had I ever confirmed to attend any other events other than the dinner.  Any reference to my participation or appearance on the Ferguson panel during the ICNA conference is not factual. As a former law enforcement officer with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security in the anti-terrorism unit, it is critical that Americans know that I would never associate with any individual or organization trying to harm the United States of America or its citizens.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-statement-attending-icna-chicago-convention,Carson Statement on Attending the ICNA Chicago Convention,2014-12-31,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS - Today, Congressman André Carson released the following statement in response to his attendance at the ICNA (Islamic Circle of North America) Chicago convention last weekend. On Saturday, December 27, I attended the ICNA Chicago convention to deliver a speech on the importance of civil engagement and developing leaders in the community. On Sunday, December 28, I learned that ICNA had also scheduled me to sit on a Ferguson panel Saturday night – which I had not planned on participating in. At no point had I ever confirmed to attend any other events other than the dinner. Any reference to my participation or appearance on the Ferguson panel during the ICNA conference is not factual. As a former law enforcement officer with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security in the anti-terrorism unit, it is critical that Americans know that I would never associate with any individual or organization trying to harm the United States of America or its citizens.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z http://visclosky.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/visclosky-announces-2015-town-forums,Visclosky Announces 2015 Town Forums,2014-12-29,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,"Visclosky Announces 2015 Town Forums Local students to lead the Pledge of Allegiance Merrillville, IN- Congressman Visclosky announced today that he will hold 12 Town Forums throughout Indiana’s First Congressional District during the month of January.  Visclosky hosts the Town Forums each year as an avenue to hear directly from constituents and to provide an update on issues facing the region and the country. “I host these annual Town Forums so that I may share updates on the previous and forthcoming legislative sessions and, moreover, to hear from the public on the important issues of today,” said Congressman Pete Visclosky.    As in previous years, local students will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and introduce Visclosky to their communities.  Each student will give a brief introduction speech that will include information on the history and economy of the First Congressional District. “Some of Northwest Indiana’s best and brightest will join us during the 2015 Town Forums.  I am excited to have their participation throughout the week, and I appreciate their willingness to take an active role in our democratic process.” Congressman Visclosky’s 2015 Town Forum Schedule: Thursday January 15, 2015: 10:00 a.m. CST-Michigan City: Michigan City-City Hall, 100 East Michigan Boulevard, Michigan City, Indiana 46360 12:00 p.m. CST-Chesterton: Westchester Public Library, Library Service Center, 100 West Indiana Avenue, Chesterton, Indiana 46304 2:00 p.m. CST-Valparaiso: Porter County Government Center, County Commissioners’ Chambers, 155 Indiana Avenue, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 4:00 p.m. CST-Portage: Portage City Hall, 6070 Central Avenue, Portage, Indiana 46368 6:00 p.m. CST-Hobart: Hobart Community Center, 111 East Old Ridge Road, Hobart, Indiana 46342 Friday January 16, 2015: 10:00 a.m. CST-Crown Point: Crown Point Library, 122 North Main Street, Crown Point, Indiana 46307 12:00 p.m. CST-Highland: Wicker Park Social Center, 2215 Ridge Road, Highland, Indiana 46322 2:00 p.m. CST-Hammond: Purdue University Calumet, Student Union Library Building, Room With a View, 2200 169th Street, Hammond, Indiana 46323 4:00 p.m. CST-East Chicago: East Chicago City Hall, Council Chambers, 4525 Indianapolis Boulevard, East Chicago, Indiana 46312 6:00 p.m. CST-Gary: Gary YWCA, 150 West 15th Avenue, Gary, Indiana 46407 Saturday January 17, 2015: 12:00 p.m. CST-St. John: St. John Town Hall, 10955 West 93rd Avenue, St. John, Indiana 46373 2:00 p.m. CST-Merrillville: Merrillville Town Hall, 7820 Broadway, Merrillville, Indiana 46410",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/purdue-university-calumet-2014-year-in-review,Purdue University Calumet 2014 Year in Review,2014-12-24,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Saving page now... https://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/purdue-university-calumet-2014-year-in-review As it appears live December 6, 2017 3:44:46 PM UTC Purdue University Calumet 2014 Year in Review",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/article/bill-that-supports-troops-is-now-the-law,Bill that Supports Troops is Now the Law,2014-12-24,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bill that Supports Troops is Now the Law Wednesday, December 24, 2014 It’s popular for members of Congress to say that they “support the troops,” but backing those words with thoughtful, meaningful action is what really matters. The passage of the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Act of 2014 promises real assistance to members of the military, putting the focus on helping them get mental health support and reducing military suicides. On Friday, President Obama signed the bill, which is part of the National Defense Authorization Act. The bill is the second version of a measure introduced last year by Indiana Sen. Joe Donnelly. Donnelly’s commitment to preventing suicide among military members — and his hard work in support of those who serve in general — has been unwavering. Named for a National Guardsman from Farmland, Ind., who shot himself to death while on leave in 2009, the bill requires annual, face-to-face mental health assessments for all active duty, reserve and National Guard service members. Currently, the military focuses mental health services on deploying and returning troops, even though research indicates that suicide is more common among soldiers who never deploy. The need for such support is reflected in these sobering figures: Last year saw the combat deaths of 132 service members, while 475 members took their own lives. In introducing the measure, Donnelly noted that “there is not one solution, no cure-all to prevent military suicide. But this problem is not too big to solve.” And the passage of the Jacob Sexton Act Military Act of 2014 is a significant step in preventing such tragic losses. In a statement, Donnelly calls the legislation he fought for “common sense change (that) will ensure we are focusing not only on our Armed Forces’ physical readiness but also mental readiness.” It’s no less than the men and women who protect this country deserve.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/article/life-after-war,Life After War,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Life After War Monday, December 22, 2014 Mika Brzezinski talks to a military panel about the difficulties veterans face transitioning back to civilian life. The panel talks about PTSD and VA policies.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/article/tully-sen-joe-donnelly_indianas-man-in-the-middle,Tully: Sen. Joe Donnelly — Indiana’s Man in the Middle,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Tully: Sen. Joe Donnelly — Indiana’s Man in the Middle By:  Matthew Tully Monday, December 22, 2014 His party is about to be tossed from power in the U.S. Senate, the result of a brutal election year for Democrats, but Sen. Joe Donnelly of Indiana smiled over a plate of eggs Friday morning and said that, for him, life in the minority offers quite an opportunity. Why? Because the rules in the glacially paced Senate often require not a majority of votes, but 60 votes, for anything to move. So while Republican’s 54-seat majority might have the Fox News crowd all giddy, it won’t mean a lot without crossover votes from moderates like Donnelly. “They are going to have to have at least six Democrats on everything,” Donnelly said as we talked at the City Cafe Downtown. “So I think I’m in a great position — in the middle.” Shortly after the November elections, Donnelly said he approached Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the incoming majority leader, and told him that, “I am here to help you get things done.” To be more specific, the lawmaker from Northern Indiana told me that this is what that means: “On the crazy stuff here or there, on either side, I’ll pass. But on the jobs stuff, on the common sense stuff, on the stuff we should all be able to agree is good for the country, I’ll be there. I just want to get things done.” Now before my conservative friends fill my inbox with outrage at calling anyone to the left of Ted Cruz a moderate, let me be clear: Like other moderates, Donnelly votes most often with his own party. That’s not a sin (though some will disagree), and it doesn’t disqualify him from moderate status. Just as it didn’t disqualify his Republican predecessor, Richard Lugar. Donnelly is a gun rights supporter, and he votes more like a conservative Republican on abortion issues. He’s a fiscal conservative in many ways, and he’s certainly no great environmentalist. But beyond the wedge issues, the true spirit of a moderate is about something deeper. It’s about a willingness to work with the other side to get things done and to accept the reality that compromise is usually the answer. Lugar believed that and Donnelly, elected in 2012, believes that. And it would be nice if more lawmakers in Washington believed that; if they did, perhaps Congress’ approval ratings wouldn’t be as paltry as its list of recent accomplishments. Of course, it’s easier to be a moderate when the politics of your state demand it. Politicians such as Evan Bayh and Joe Donnelly can win statewide; Elizabeth Warren could not. So Donnelly’s stance is both appreciated and a requirement of the job. “For me, it’s about being in the position Hoosiers elected me to be in,” he said. “It’s about being in the middle and going (to Washington) and trying to support common sense, and not to worry about the parties.” And, so, in what many have labeled one of the least productive congressional sessions in history, Donnelly ended the 2014 session with a significant first-term legislative victory. It’s significant because it could help a lot of people and because of what it symbolizes. The legislation is named after an Indiana National Guard member named Jacob Sexton, a 21-year-old who committed suicide in Muncie in 2009. It seeks to give soldiers and veterans more support and encouragement in their darkest days and to proactively identify looming crises. It comes amid a flurry of reports detailing a disturbing and heartbreaking increase in suicides among service members current and former. The bill will require mental health assessments each year for those in the service, and it calls for a federal report that will examine existing programs to see if they are working and, likely, to suggest new ones. It seeks to erase the unfair stigma that so often is tied to the decision to seek counseling. “What has to happen,” Donnelly said, “is we have to show (service members and veterans) that this is not a sign of weakness. Part of the focus here is to make them know that there is nothing wrong with talking to someone.” Not to get carried away, but the legislation’s success is a sign that, even in Washington and even in this toxic political era, things can get done. To get this done, Donnelly teamed up with a Republican, Roger Wicker of Mississippi. And he worked methodically to build support from a vast array of sources: military and health organizations, Democrats and Republicans, and veterans and family members of those serving. “It was done the classic way things should be done out there,” Donnelly said. “With my Republican friend and I sitting down saying, ‘let’s get this done.’” When portions of the original bill were spiked by more senior senators, Donnelly said he had a choice to make: He could either compromise and get most of what he wanted or let his legislation die out of political stubbornness, as many other bills have. He chose compromise. It was a wise choice. “That culture has been gone for a long time,” he said. “We’ve been in this period where people in Washington say they have to get everything they want or they are going to hold a press conference and stomp their feet up and down.” That’s indeed been the way of Washington of late, but it’s gotten the country nowhere. And it’s a reminder of why Indiana was smart two years ago to send Joe Donnelly to the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/icymi-donnelly-discusses-sexton-act-on-morning-joe,ICYMI: Donnelly Discusses Sexton Act on Morning Joe,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"ICYMI: Donnelly Discusses Sexton Act on Morning Joe Monday, December 22, 2014 Indianapolis, Ind. – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly discussed his military suicide prevention legislation, the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act – now law – on MSNBC’s Morning Joe. The Sexton Act, introduced by Donnelly, was signed into law on Friday as part of the national defense bill.   The Sexton Act will require annual mental health assessments for all servicemembers—Active, Reserve, and Guard; maintain strong privacy protections for servicemembers; and require a Pentagon report to evaluate existing military mental health practices and provide recommendations for improvement.  Watch the full interview here. For more information on the Sexton Act, visit: www.donnelly.senate.gov/Jacob-Sexton-Act. ### Press Contact Donnelly_Press@Donnelly.Senate.Gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-sexton-act-is-law,Donnelly: ‘Sexton Act is Law’,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Donnelly: ‘Sexton Act is Law’ President Obama signs Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act into law as part of annual national defense bill Friday, December 19, 2014 Indianapolis, Ind. —U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly welcomed his signature legislation, the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act of 2014, being signed into law today by President Obama as part of the national defense bill.  The Sexton Act requires an annual mental health assessment for all servicemembers.   Donnelly and the Sextons in Indianapolis today Donnelly said, “Today, we honor the memory of a young man who was taken from us too soon.  In remembering Jacob, we seek to prevent another servicemember’s family from experiencing the tragedy of suicide.  I have worked alongside Jacob’s parents, Jeff and Barb, for two years now, and their strength continues to inspire my work.  Starting next year, every servicemember—Active Duty, Guard, or Reserve—will receive an annual mental health assessment.  Also, we will evaluate which prevention or intervention programs are working in hopes of future expansion.  I am grateful for the support of many individuals who and organizations that stood with me throughout this effort, but most of all for Jeff and Barb, who continue to share their story to help prevent future tragedies.” Jeff Sexton said, ""The day they passed the bill would have been Jacob’s 27th birthday. And I can’t think of a better birthday present for him or a better Christmas present for all the men and women and their families in the military that suffer every day from PTSD, head injuries, any kind of mental illness. And hopefully this may change the stigma and bring out the help that our men and women need.”  The Sexton Act will: Require annual mental health assessments for all servicemembers—Active, Reserve, and Guard.  Right now, the best and most consistent screening is happening only for those within the deployment cycle which can leave non-deployed members of the Active, Reserve, and Guard components underserved. Maintain strong privacy protections for servicemembers.  We must ensure that seeking help remains a sign of strength by protecting the privacy of the servicemember coming forward.  The privacy of servicemembers would be ensured by guaranteeing medical privacy protections for these mental health assessments. Require a Pentagon report to evaluate existing military mental health practices and provide recommendations for improvement. This report, which is due to Congress within a year of enactment of the bill, would help identify which programs are working and which need to be fixed. A specific focus of the report will be identifying successful peer-to-peer programs that address the need for a more bottom-up approach to identifying warning signs and combatting stigma in each of the Services, with the intention of future expansion. Specialist Jacob Sexton was a member of the Indiana Nation Guard from Farmland, Indiana. Jacob took his own life at the age of 21 in a Muncie movie theater while home on a 15-day leave from Afghanistan.  In early 2013, Jeff Sexton heard Senator Donnelly talk about the need to improve efforts to prevent military suicide during a Senate Armed Services hearing.  Jeff emailed the senator’s office about his and his wife Barb’s personal experience with military suicide, losing their son Jacob. Jeff wrote in his email, “I’m willing to help any way I can.”  Senator Donnelly called Jeff, and with his and Barb’s blessing, they worked together on legislation named after Jacob that aims to help end the scourge of military suicide. For more information on the Sexton Act, visit: https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/Jacob-Sexton-Act  ### Press Contact Donnelly_Press@Donnelly.Senate.Gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-and-heitkamp-urge-congressional-leaders-to-work-together-pass-meaningful-immigration-reform,"Donnelly and Heitkamp Urge Congressional Leaders to Work Together, Pass Meaningful Immigration Reform",2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Donnelly and Heitkamp Urge Congressional Leaders to Work Together, Pass Meaningful Immigration Reform Thursday, December 18, 2014 Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senators Joe Donnelly (D-IN) and Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) sent a letter to House and Senate leadership urging them to work together to pass meaningful immigration reform. The senators wrote, “…we disagree with the President’s decision to act unilaterally to make such significant policy changes in this area and have expressed concern about the impact this action may have on the potential for comprehensive immigration reform.”  They went on to say, “The way to fix our immigration system is for Congress to pass bipartisan, common sense legislation. We encourage you to reconsider the Senate-passed comprehensive immigration reform bill in the next Congress or use it as a starting point for a future compromise.” Full text of the letter follows.  To see the signed letter, click here.   December 17, 2014 Dear Leader Reid, Leader McConnell, Speaker Boehner, and Minority Leader Pelosi, Last month, President Obama announced several executive actions intended to address a number of important issues with our nation’s current immigration system. We agree that our immigration system is broken and in need of reform. As members of the United States Senate, however, we disagree with the President’s decision to act unilaterally to make such significant policy changes in this area and have expressed concern about the impact this action may have on the potential for comprehensive immigration reform. The way to fix our immigration system is for Congress to pass bipartisan, common sense legislation. By enacting legislation we can change the law to adequately secure our borders, modernize our visa system, and permanently address the millions of undocumented immigrants who are currently living in our country. To date, Congress has failed to do its job. Despite bipartisan support for action in both chambers and the passage of bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform in the Senate, the House failed to address this issue. We encourage you to reconsider the Senate-passed comprehensive immigration reform bill in the next Congress or use it as a starting point for a future compromise. As we prepare for the 114th Congress, we are committed to working in a constructive, bipartisan manner to enact long-term solutions to the challenges facing our country. We need a practical plan that strengthens our borders, addresses the systemic problems with our legal immigration policies, and provides a tough, fair process for those who want to earn the opportunity for citizenship. These are issues that deserve the utmost attention in the new Congress. In that spirit, we strongly urge you to work together to pass meaningful immigration reform. Sincerely, Joe Donnelly                            Heidi Heitkamp United States Senator              United States Senator ### Press Contact donnelly_press@donnelly.senate.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-announces-committee-assignments-for-114th-congress,Donnelly Announces Committee Assignments for 114th Congress,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Donnelly Announces Committee Assignments for 114th Congress Will serve on Armed Services, Agriculture, Aging and Banking Committees Thursday, December 18, 2014 Granger, Ind. —Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly announced his committee assignments for the 114th Congress.  He will continue to serve on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Agriculture Committee, and Special Committee on Aging.  Starting next year, he will also serve on the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee. “I look forward to continuing my work on behalf of servicemembers on the Armed Services Committee, especially in the area of mental health,” said Donnelly.  “Further, there is ongoing work in the Agriculture Committee to properly implement the five-year Farm Bill and meet the needs of our ag sector.  We have more to do in the Aging Committee, also, in the area of the protecting seniors from scams and fraud. “Finally, I look forward to the new opportunity to represent Hoosiers on the Banking Committee.  From this new committee, I will be able to address issues affecting Indiana financial institutions and their customers, economic development, housing, and export financing.” ### Press Contact Donnelly_Press@Donnelly.Senate.Gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/wrapping-up-2014,Wrapping up 2014,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, As your representative in Congress, I take a great deal of pride in knowing that you have chosen me as your voice on matters of importance to you.  Throughout the year, your thoughts and concerns have been invaluable and I have made a point of sharing them with my colleagues as we work to move our country forward.  It has been an incredible honor to work hard every day on behalf of you, your family, and our community. Here are a few highlights of what we accomplished together in 2014: Military and Veterans: •   Introduced and passed the Military Suicide Reduction Act, H.R. 1463, legislation that helps protect the mental health of deployed service members.  This bill is expected to be signed into law by President Obama within the next couple of weeks. •   Sent a letter to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki in May asking for a review of VA facilities in Indiana in light of problems discovered at facilities nationwide. Read a copy of the letter here: https://carson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-andr-carson-ensuring-top-notch-care-at-va-must-be-priority •  As a Member of the House Armed Services Committee, co-authored the annual National Defense Authorization Act, which trains and equips our troops, strengthens housing and health care resources, provides a pay raise, and otherwise supports service members and their families. Jobs and the Economy: •   Helped to connect unemployed Hoosiers with hiring businesses through my fifth annual job fair.  This year we hosted over 1280 job seekers and 78 employers. •   Hosted a Youth Opportunity Fair to connect Marion County youth with summer programs, internships, volunteer opportunities and jobs. •   Introduced H.R. 4876, the Emerging Business Encouragement Act of 2014, in the U.S. House of Representatives.  This bill would help emerging businesses compete for federal contracts and obtain access to federally backed loans as they get off the ground. Hoosier Priorities: •   Helped secure over $12 million dollars in grants for local non-profits throughout Indiana’s 7th Congressional District. •   Held more than 800 legislative and constituent meetings in my Washington D.C. and Indianapolis offices. •   Reserved tours for over 1,750 constituents to Washington D.C. landmarks. As we close out this year, I want to thank you again for trusting me to represent you in Washington.  I look forward to continuing our fight for a stronger community, city, and country in 2015. Finally, as this is the last Carson Courier for 2014, I want to wish you a safe and happy holiday season and Happy New Year! Regards, André",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/article/winning-the-peace,Winning the Peace,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The suicides of servicemen and servicewomen are just as tragic as the deaths on the uncertain battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan. And as those conflicts have wound down, the suicide rates have remained high. Instead of collateral damage, they have become the main event: In 2013, 132 soldiers and Marines died in war; 475 took their own lives. Indiana Democratic Sen. Joe Donnelly has been in the forefront of those fighting to draw attention to military suicide and prevent those pointless deaths. Now The Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Act of 2014, a second version of legislation Donnelly first introduced last year, is on its way to becoming law. ”It’s been a two-year journey for the senator,” said Elizabeth Shappell, Donnelly’s communications director. “We’re so excited to put out the good news.” But as Shappell emphasized, the bill Congress passed last week is just a beginning. The bill is named for a 21-year-old Indiana National Guardsman from Farmland, a small town near Muncie, who shot himself to death in a movie theater while he was home on leave in 2009. Sexton’s family saw no signs of distress in Jacob before the tragedy, but his father, Jeff, said they later learned that others in his unit had seen some problems. Often, those in the military have been reluctant to speak about problems, and their comrades have avoided flagging potentially suicidal behavior because of the stigma that mental health problems can carry. Donnelly, who plans a ceremony with the family in Indianapolis later this week, wrote the bill to make it easier for soldiers with problems to be identified and to receive help. The measure will require that every active-duty and reserve serviceman and servicewoman receive a mental health assessment every year. It sets strict privacy protections, so that military personnel who need help can seek and receive it without potentially derailing their careers. And the act directs the Pentagon to assess all the mental health and suicide-prevention programs now operating with the military and report to Congress within a year. “(Donnelly) wants to test what’s working, what’s not, what sort of programs should be expanded,” Shappell said.   Donnelly also wants to take on the catastrophic problem of suicides by military veterans. More than 20 vets kill themselves every day. It’s a problem that may not get better without better solutions.  The Sexton Act seemed to be on its way to passage after Donnelly managed to get it tied into the Defense Appropriations Act for the coming year.  Even the current do-little Congress would not fail to pass that measure, though Donnelly still had to shepherd his act through final defense-spending negotiations between the House and Senate this month. The Clay Hunt Act, named for a 28-year-old Marine veteran from Houston who killed himself in 2011, may not fare as well. That act would help veterans get access to mental health services and require military agencies to assess the effectiveness of their programs for veterans. It passed the House, but it has been held back from a Senate vote because one senator objected to its $22 million pricetag.  Congress, which customarily has no problems voting billions of dollars for war, needs to spend more of its time as Donnelly has, trying to see that our psychologically wounded warriors get the help they need. This is a battle that will not end when the last soldier leaves Iraq, or Afghanistan, or Syria. The veterans of our post-9/11 wars will be with us until near the end of this century, and they have earned not only our respect and gratitude, but the right to regain their psychological health.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-applauds-senate-passage-of-able-act,Donnelly Applauds Senate Passage of ABLE Act,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Donnelly Applauds Senate Passage of ABLE Act Bipartisan bill creates tax-free savings accounts for disabled Americans Tuesday, December 16, 2014 Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly praised Senate passage of the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, a bill to create tax-free savings accounts for individuals with disabilities that he co-sponsored and helped pass. The bill passed tonight in the Senate by a vote of 76 to 16 as part of a larger bill, H.R. 5771, the Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014, after passing the House last week, and now goes to the President to be signed into law. “In Indiana, we know that disabilities shouldn’t be a roadblock to pursuing your dreams,” said Donnelly. “The savings accounts this legislation creates will help Americans with disabilities save for things like education, transportation, and even housing. I have been proud to support the ABLE Act, and I am glad to see it pass with bipartisan support.” More than 100 organizations support the legislation, including Arc of Indiana, the National Down Syndrome Society, and Autism Speaks. John Dickerson, Executive Director of The Arc of Indiana, said, “The ABLE Act provides families and people with disabilities an important option in saving for the future.  People with disabilities want the opportunity to be as independent as possible whether that means continuing their education or owning their own home.  The ABLE Act will provide them with those options.  We appreciate the perseverance of the sponsors of this legislation in not giving up and creating this opportunity.” Currently, U.S. law prohibits those claiming disability from having more than $2,000 in assets in order to continue receiving Social Security, Medicaid, and other benefits; making it difficult for disabled individuals to save for the future. By giving disabled Americans access to tax-free savings accounts, the ABLE Act would provide eligible individuals the same types of flexible savings options that other Americans have through college savings accounts, health savings accounts, and individual retirement accounts. These savings accounts will supplement, but not replace, benefits provided through Medicaid, Social Security, private insurance, and other sources. The money saved in these accounts must be used for qualified disability expenses, including: education, housing, transportation, employment training and support, assistive technology and personal support services, health, prevention and wellness, and other approved expenses. Donnelly co-sponsored similar legislation in the 112th Congress while serving in the House of Representatives. ### Press Contact Donnelly_Press@Donnelly.Senate.Gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/joe-announces-anticipated-senate-passage-of-the-jacob-sexton-military-suicide-prevention-act,Joe Announces Anticipated Senate Passage of the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Joe Announces Anticipated Senate Passage of the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act On December 10, 2014, Joe joined supporters of the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act to announce anticipated Senate passage of the bill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-wicker-sexton-act-will-soon-be-law,"Donnelly, Wicker: ‘Sexton Act will soon be law’",2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Donnelly, Wicker: ‘Sexton Act will soon be law’ Senate passes Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act as part of national defense bill Friday, December 12, 2014 Washington, D.C. —U.S. Senators Joe Donnelly (D-IN) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) welcomed the Senate passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) today with support from both parties. The national defense bill includes their Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act of 2014, which would require an annual mental health assessment for all servicemembers.  The bill now heads to President Obama to be signed into law. Donnelly said, “This is outstanding news: the Jacob Sexton Act will soon be law. After nearly two years of working on this effort with Jacob’s parents Jeff and Barb, we will honor the memory of Jacob by positively impacting servicemembers’ lives.  This common sense change will ensure we are focused not only on our Armed Forces’ physical readiness but also mental readiness.  We make strides in the effort to reduce the stigma of seeking help—truly, it is a sign of strength.  We accomplished this with strong bipartisan support, and I thank my friend, Senator Wicker, for working with me to get this done.” Wicker said, “The ‘Jacob Sexton Act’ will provide our service members with an array of new tools to get the mental health services they need and deserve. We must address this growing problem before it gets any worse. Too many American families will celebrate this holiday season without their loved ones. I am proud to be a part of this effort.” The Sexton Act will: Require annual mental health assessments for all servicemembers—Active, Reserve, and Guard.  Right now, the best and most consistent screening is happening only for those within the deployment cycle which can leave non-deployed members of the Active, Reserve, and Guard components underserved. Maintain strong privacy protections for servicemembers.  We must ensure that seeking help remains a sign of strength by protecting the privacy of the servicemember coming forward.  The privacy of servicemembers would be ensured by guaranteeing medical privacy protections for these mental health assessments. Require a Pentagon report to evaluate existing military mental health practices and provide recommendations for improvement. This report, which is due to Congress within a year of enactment of the bill, would help identify which programs are working and which need to be fixed. A specific focus of the report will be identifying successful peer-to-peer programs that address the need for a more bottom-up approach to identifying warning signs and combatting stigma in each of the Services, with the intention of future expansion. Specialist Jacob Sexton was a member of the Indiana Nation Guard from Farmland, Indiana. Jacob took his own life at the age of 21 in a Muncie movie theater while home on a 15-day leave from Afghanistan.  In early 2013, Jeff Sexton heard Senator Donnelly talk about the need to improve efforts to prevent military suicide during a Senate Armed Services hearing.  Jeff emailed the senator’s office about his and his wife Barb’s personal experience with military suicide, losing their son Jacob. Jeff wrote in his email, “I’m willing to help any way I can.”  Senator Donnelly called Jeff, and with his and Barn’s blessing, they worked together on legislation named after Jacob that aims to help end the scourge of military suicide. For more information on the Sexton Act, visit: https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/Jacob-Sexton-Act ### Press Contact Donnelly_Press@Donnelly.Senate.Gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/senate-approves-donnelly_boozman-language-authorizing-a-gulf-war-memorial-heads-to-presidents-desk,"Senate Approves Donnelly – Boozman Language Authorizing a Gulf War Memorial, Heads to President’s Desk",2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate Approves Donnelly – Boozman Language Authorizing a Gulf War Memorial, Heads to President’s Desk National Memorial Would Honor Those Who Fought in Operations Desert Storm and Shield Friday, December 12, 2014 Washington, D.C. –The Senate today passed legislation that would authorize the construction of a National Desert Storm and Desert Shield Memorial, originally introduced by U.S. Senators Joe Donnelly (D-IN) and John Boozman (R-AR). The memorial would honor American servicemembers who fought during Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield. The legislation, as part of the national defense bill, passed the House last week and now goes to the President to be signed into law. Donnelly said, “For the thousands of Hoosiers and for all Americans who served in Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield, this memorial will honor their courageous service and sacrifice. I am pleased that after working with my friend Senator Boozman, our bipartisan legislation to create a national memorial is now headed to the President to be signed into law. I look forward to the day when our Desert Storm and Desert Shield veterans can visit their memorial.” Boozman said, “The men and women who served in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield deserve this honor and recognition in our nation’s capital. I’m proud to work with Senator Donnelly in support of this memorial that shows our nation’s appreciation for all Americans who fought to defend freedom in the Gulf War. It’s been far too long for this tribute but soon we’ll be able to pay our respects at a national memorial.” Scott C. Stump, President of the National Desert Storm War Memorial Association, said, ""The passage of the National Desert Storm and Desert Shield War Memorial Act leaves us honored, humbled, and thankful to Senators Boozman and Donnelly for their hard work and bipartisan efforts throughout this entire process. We look forward to creating a place of honor and remembrance for all who served. Most importantly, this memorial is dedicated to our fellow Desert Shield and Desert Storm veterans who gave their lives on behalf of every American.""  A native of Clay Township in St. Joseph County, Indiana, Stump attended Indiana State University and served as a Lance Corporal in the Marine Corps during Operations Desert Storm and Shield. In 2011 Stump had an idea to honor those he served with overseas. He joined with two of his fellow servicemembers to co-found an organization in Arkansas which became the National Desert Storm War Memorial Association. Over the past few years, Stump and the organization have advocated for an Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield memorial and raised money for its construction. During the 1990–1992 Gulf War, more than 700,000 American servicemembers were deployed and nearly 400 lost their lives. These servicemembers fought with the support of more than 30 other coalition countries to liberate the citizens of Kuwait from more than seven months of invasion and occupation by Iraqi forces. This legislation will allow the National Desert Storm Memorial Association to create a commemorative work in Washington D.C. to honor those who served. The bill has received wide-ranging support after Senators Donnelly and Boozman introduced the Senate version of the legislation (S. 995) on May 21, 2013. Servicemembers, veterans, members of the international allied coalition, as well as veterans’ organizations including AMVETS and the American Legion have endorsed the creation of the memorial. As with all memorials on federal property, Congress must authorize the land within Washington D.C. for the site. No federal funds would be used for the construction of the memorial. Private funds would be raised by the National Desert Storm War Memorial Association. ### Press Contact Donnelly_Press@donnelly.senate.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/joe-announces-expected-senate-passage-of-the-jacob-sexton-military-suicide-prevention-act,Joe Announces Expected Senate Passage of the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Joe Announces Expected Senate Passage of the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act On December 10, 2014, Joe joined supporters of the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act to announce that he expects the bill to pass the Senate this week as part of the National Defense...",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/article/donnelly-seeks-to-end-the-tragedy,Donnelly Seeks to 'End the Tragedy',2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Donnelly Seeks to 'End the Tragedy' His legislation aimed at military suicides set for Senate vote By:  Brian Francisco Thursday, December 11, 2014 WASHINGTON – More U.S. soldiers, sailors and airmen are being lost to suicide than to combat, U.S. Sen. Joe Donnelly said Wednesday. During 2013, he said, 475 members of the military took their lives, compared with 132 killed in battle. “That’s happened two years straight now,” Donnelly, D-Ind., said at a Capitol Hill news conference, adding that 2014 has followed a similar pace. “We have to break the chain. We have to end the tragedy,” he said. Donnelly, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has sponsored legislation requiring yearly mental health assessments for all active, National Guard and Reserve members of the military. His proposal is incorporated into the defense bill that comes before the Senate for a vote today or Friday. The House approved the bill last week. Donnelly’s measure, called the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act, is named for an east-central Indiana soldier who, at age 21, fatally shot himself in 2009 in a Muncie movie theater while on leave from his deployment to Afghanistan. Military suicides “also happen to young men and women who have never been overseas, who have never been deployed,” Donnelly said. “And so this is a servicewide problem.” Currently, he said, mental health screenings are required only for troops on a deployment cycle. His legislation includes provisions to safeguard the privacy of personnel who seek and receive mental health treatment, and it calls for the Pentagon to evaluate and report on its mental health practices. Pete Duffy, legislative director of the National Guard Association of the United States, said the Guard had the highest suicide rate among military branches in 2013 – 33.4 suicides for every 100,000 troops. Sexton was a Guard member from Farmland in Randolph County. By comparison, the national suicide rate in 2012 was roughly 13 deaths for every 100,000 people, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, which has endorsed Donnelly’s legislation. “We’re going to have the assessments. Now we need to have funded programs to address mental health concerns when they are discovered in the assessments,” said Duffy, a retired Army colonel. “The tragedy to Jacob, Jacob’s family, the losing (military) unit, the loss of readiness cannot continue.” Members of advocacy groups for suicide prevention, mental health, military families and family therapy also spoke in favor of Donnelly’s bill, co-sponsored by Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss. Donnelly said he can’t tell how his legislation, if signed into law, might affect recruitment and re-enlistment. “But I will tell you that if I were in the service at this time and knew that I had the option to have somebody to talk to and it wouldn’t be stigmatized, that seeking help would actually be considered a strength, I would think that would be a plus for continuing (military) service,” he said. Earlier, Donnelly said the assessments also might uncover mental health problems that can lead military personnel to cause harm to others. “This can help in case after case after case, not only suicide but also for those who are facing challenges – that they have somebody to talk to and maybe prevent them from taking it out on somebody else,” he said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/article/in-depth-sen-joe-donnelly-explains-bill-to-prevent-military-suicides,In-Depth: Sen. Joe Donnelly Explains Bill to Prevent Military Suicides,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"They put their lives on the line to defend our freedom. But sometimes the biggest challenge service men and women face is when they come home. Sadly, it's led to a spike in suicides by combat veterans, and Indiana Senator Joe Donnelly has a new bill aimed at curbing that. Eyewitness News Laura Kirtley speaks with Senator Donnelly about his proposed bill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-new-military-suicide-numbers-incredibly-concerning-reinforce-importance-of-passing-jacob-sexton-act,"Donnelly: New Military Suicide Numbers ‘Incredibly Concerning,’ Reinforce Importance of Passing Jacob Sexton Act",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Joe Donnelly,D000607,www.donnelly.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Donnelly: New Military Suicide Numbers ‘Incredibly Concerning,’ Reinforce Importance of Passing Jacob Sexton Act 224 Servicemembers have taken own lives in first six months of 2014 according to new Pentagon report Thursday, December 11, 2014 Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released the following statement in response to the Department of Defense’s (DoD) new report on military suicides through the first six months of 2014. The DoD report comes as the Senate is on the verge of passing the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), including Donnelly’s bipartisan Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act. The Pentagon reported on Thursday that 224 servicemembers took their own lives from January through June of this year, including 144 active component servicemembers, 38 reserve servicemembers, and 44 National Guard members. Donnelly, who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said, “It’s incredibly concerning how many servicemembers we are losing to suicide. Any servicemember lost is one too many. There are commonsense steps we can take to address the scourge of military suicide, and I hope that one step we take yet this week is passing the Jacob Sexton Act.” The national defense bill, including the Sexton Act, is anticipated to pass the Senate by the end of this week. The Sexton Act seeks to help prevent military suicide by requiring annual mental health assessments for all servicemembers, including Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve; maintaining strong privacy protections for servicemembers; and requiring a Pentagon report to evaluate existing military mental health practices and provide recommendations for expansion and improvement.  The Sexton Act is named after Indiana National Guardsman Jacob Sexton, a native of Farmland, Indiana, who took his own life in 2009 while home on a 15-day leave from Afghanistan. For more information on the Sexton Act, click here. For two straight years, we have lost more servicemembers to suicide than combat.  According to the Pentagon, in 2012, 522 servicemembers took their own lives, while we lost 316 in combat. Last year, a record number in the National Guard took their own lives, and we lost 474* servicemembers overall, more than three times the number killed in combat. [*The Pentagon report released on Thursday adjusted the number of servicemembers lost to suicide in 2013 to 474 servicemembers from the previously reported 475.]  ### Press Contact Donnelly_Press@Donnelly.Senate.Gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/port-of-indianas-shipments-on-pace-to-near-all-time-record,Port of Indiana's Shipments on pace to near all-time record,2014-12-09,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Saving page now... https://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/port-of-indianas-shipments-on-pace-to-near-all-time-record As it appears live December 6, 2017 1:54:02 PM UTC Port of Indiana's Shipments on pace to near all-time record",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/carson-statement-on-the-passing-of-william-bill-mays,Carson Statement on the Passing of William (Bill) Mays,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"INDIANAPOLIS – “Tonight, we lost a leader who dedicated his life to our community.  As a businessman, philanthropist, and activist, Bill Mays helped improve the lives of countless Hoosiers throughout his life. I pray that God gives peace and comfort to his wife, Rose, his daughters Kristin and Heather, and to the countless others for whom Bill is “family.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/house-passes-carson-mental-health-bill,House Passes Carson Mental Health Bill,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2015, which included provisions authored by Congressman Carson to protect the mental health of deployed service members.  The NDAA containing Congressman Carson’s  provisions is expected to pass the Senate next week before making its way to the President’s desk to become law. Specifically, Congressman Carson’s bill aims to provide mid-deployment assessments to detect and begin treatment of mental health issues that arise while overseas and could negatively impact performance or become life threatening.  Currently, service members only receive mental health screening before and after deployment. The 2015 NDAA includes provisions from Carson’s H.R. 1463, the Military Suicide Reduction Act, which was endorsed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Association of the United States Navy, and American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.   This is the culmination of an effort that began in 2011, when Carson first authored legislation mandating that service members deployed in combat receive mid-deployment mental health assessments.  He has introduced and passed through the House similar provisions every year since.  “Today, we know more than ever about the unseen wounds of war,” said Congressman Carson.  “If left untreated, these issues contribute to higher rates of domestic violence, substance abuse, homelessness, and suicide—especially when combined with financial and relationship difficulties that are common among deploying service members.  By mandating regular screening during deployment, when injuries and trauma are most likely to occur, we can improve the likelihood of early detection and treatment. After years of repeated deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, it is time for us to reflect on lessons learned and find ways to better support our deploying service members.”  In 2011, the NDAA included language from the Service Members Mental Health Screening Act, which ensured that mental health assessments holistically consider records originating from past units, and the Military Families Financial Preparedness Act, which helped prepare separating service members and their families for the financial challenges of civilian life.  This bill was signed into law by President Obama in December 2011.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-statement-passing-william-bill-mays,Carson Statement on the Passing of William (Bill) Mays,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS – ""Tonight, we lost a leader who dedicated his life to our community. As a businessman, philanthropist, and activist, Bill Mays helped improve the lives of countless Hoosiers throughout his life. I pray that God gives peace and comfort to his wife, Rose, his daughters Kristin and Heather, and to the countless others for whom Bill is ""family.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-carson-mental-health-bill,House Passes Carson Mental Health Bill,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2015, which included provisions authored by Congressman Carson to protect the mental health of deployed service members. The NDAA containing Congressman Carson's provisions is expected to pass the Senate next week before making its way to the President's desk to become law. Specifically, Congressman Carson's bill aims to provide mid-deployment assessments to detect and begin treatment of mental health issues that arise while overseas and could negatively impact performance or become life threatening. Currently, service members only receive mental health screening before and after deployment. The 2015 NDAA includes provisions from Carson's H.R. 1463, the Military Suicide Reduction Act, which was endorsed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Association of the United States Navy, and American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. This is the culmination of an effort that began in 2011, when Carson first authored legislation mandating that service members deployed in combat receive mid-deployment mental health assessments. He has introduced and passed through the House similar provisions every year since. ""Today, we know more than ever about the unseen wounds of war,"" said Congressman Carson. ""If left untreated, these issues contribute to higher rates of domestic violence, substance abuse, homelessness, and suicide—especially when combined with financial and relationship difficulties that are common among deploying service members. By mandating regular screening during deployment, when injuries and trauma are most likely to occur, we can improve the likelihood of early detection and treatment. After years of repeated deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, it is time for us to reflect on lessons learned and find ways to better support our deploying service members."" In 2011, the NDAA included language from the Service Members Mental Health Screening Act, which ensured that mental health assessments holistically consider records originating from past units, and the Military Families Financial Preparedness Act, which helped prepare separating service members and their families for the financial challenges of civilian life. This bill was signed into law by President Obama in December 2011.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z http://visclosky.house.gov//media-center/statements/please-note-our-new-office-location,Please note our new office location,2014-12-02,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,Our new office is at 2328 Rayburn Building.,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/choosing-safe-toys-for-holiday-giving,Choosing Safe Toys for Holiday Giving,2014-12-01,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend,   With the holiday season in full swing, many parents, grandparents, and friends are busy shopping for the special children in their lives. On the top of many of those lists are toys. With thousands of children’s products on the market each year, it is important to make sure no one gets hurt from an unsafe toy.   Over the past several years, stronger rules have helped get some of the most dangerous children’s products off the market.  Improvements made by Congress to the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act have tightened lead limits and phased out dangerous phthalates.  These safeguards, along with safety-conscious steps taken by many toy makers and sellers have led to 30 toy recalls in fiscal year 2014, compared to 172 recalls in 2008.     Keeping our children safe and healthy will ensure a more joyous holiday season for everyone. To learn more about product recalls or to report a dangerous product, go online to www.saferproducts.gov or call the Consumer Product Safety Commission Hotline at (800) 638-2772.   In addition, be sure to checkout  https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/investigations/mailfraud/fraudschemes/mailtheft/tipthieves.aspx for tips on how to ensure your packages and mail stay safe this holiday season.   I am honored to serve in Congress on behalf of Hoosier families like yours.  I value your ideas and look forward to hearing from you.   Regards,  André   INSIDE SCOOP ICYMI: This Thanksgiving, my daughter and I joined thousands of Hoosiers at the annual Mozel Sanders Thanksgiving dinner.  With the help of over 2,000 volunteers, 40,000 meals were delivered to people throughout Central Indiana!   COMING UP: One of the most rewarding aspects of being your Representative is having the opportunity to help you cut through red tape with federal agencies.  While my district office is centrally located, I realize it can be difficult or inconvenient at times to visit.  That is why I am committed to ensuring the resources my office offers are more accessible by bringing these services closer to you.   This week, my staff will be holding office hours on Thursday, December 4, from 4-6 p.m at the Indianapolis Public Library - Wayne Branch.  (198 S. Girls School Road Indianapolis, IN 46231)    My office is able to assist with a range of issues dealing with any federal agency, including the Internal Revenue Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security, Medicare, Immigration, and others.  Hope to see you there!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/carson-statement-on-the-ferguson-grand-jury-decision,Carson Statement on the Ferguson Grand Jury Decision,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman André Carson issued the following statement in response to the decision of the Ferguson Grand Jury not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown: “Tonight, my prayers are with the Brown family who lost their son far too soon.  No parent should have to live through such an ordeal. “As a young African American man, I can relate to the frustration being felt on the streets of Ferguson.  The history of our nation, past and present, is plagued with incidents of bigotry and discrimination in our justice system. Racial injustice continues to afflict our communities and with each incident like this one, old wounds are reopened.  The feelings felt tonight are real and cannot be discounted. “As a former law enforcement officer, I respect our system of justice but also recognize its shortcomings.  We have a long way to go to guarantee our country’s children of color are protected equally under the law, in every instance, in every neighborhood, all across our country. No community should have to doubt whether justice has prevailed when a decision like this one is handed down.  “Tonight is the start of a long and difficult process, not simply of overcoming the pain felt in Ferguson, but of honestly assessing how justice is provided across our country.  This process starts with peaceful protests and  ends with lasting reform that protects all Americans equally, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status.  This will not be easy or quick. But what is clear is that this march towards a better, more equitable country cannot start with violence.  It is my hope that all Americans can respect the Brown’s family request for peace and use this tragedy to advocate for real and lasting change.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/carson-statement-on-the-resignation-of-defense-secretary-hagel,Carson Statement on the Resignation of Defense Secretary Hagel,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman André Carson issued the following statement in response to the announcement that Charles “Chuck” Hagel will step down as Secretary of Defense once a successor is confirmed: “As the 24th Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel has worked each and every day to protect and ensure the safety of our country. As a decorated Vietnam War veteran, president of the World USO, Deputy Administrator of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Senator, and Secretary of Defense, Hagel’s career has been filled with public service and advocacy on behalf of our men and women in uniform. “As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have always appreciated Secretary Hagel’s honest assessment and advice, especially in difficult circumstances. “I am grateful for his leadership and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-statement-ferguson-grand-jury-decision,Carson Statement on the Ferguson Grand Jury Decision,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman André Carson issued the following statement in response to the decision of the Ferguson Grand Jury not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown: ""Tonight, my prayers are with the Brown family who lost their son far too soon. No parent should have to live through such an ordeal. ""As a young African American man, I can relate to the frustration being felt on the streets of Ferguson. The history of our nation, past and present, is plagued with incidents of bigotry and discrimination in our justice system. Racial injustice continues to afflict our communities and with each incident like this one, old wounds are reopened. The feelings felt tonight are real and cannot be discounted. ""As a former law enforcement officer, I respect our system of justice but also recognize its shortcomings. We have a long way to go to guarantee our country's children of color are protected equally under the law, in every instance, in every neighborhood, all across our country. No community should have to doubt whether justice has prevailed when a decision like this one is handed down. ""Tonight is the start of a long and difficult process, not simply of overcoming the pain felt in Ferguson, but of honestly assessing how justice is provided across our country. This process starts with peaceful protests and ends with lasting reform that protects all Americans equally, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. This will not be easy or quick. But what is clear is that this march towards a better, more equitable country cannot start with violence. It is my hope that all Americans can respect the Brown's family request for peace and use this tragedy to advocate for real and lasting change.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:56Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-statement-resignation-defense-secretary-hagel,Carson Statement on the Resignation of Defense Secretary Hagel,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman André Carson issued the following statement in response to the announcement that Charles ""Chuck"" Hagel will step down as Secretary of Defense once a successor is confirmed: ""As the 24th Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel has worked each and every day to protect and ensure the safety of our country. As a decorated Vietnam War veteran, president of the World USO, Deputy Administrator of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Senator, and Secretary of Defense, Hagel's career has been filled with public service and advocacy on behalf of our men and women in uniform. ""As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have always appreciated Secretary Hagel's honest assessment and advice, especially in difficult circumstances. ""I am grateful for his leadership and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:56Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/carson-statement-on-president-obama-s-executive-action-on-immigration,Carson Statement on President Obamas Executive Action on Immigration,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) released the following on President Barack Obama's Executive Action on immigration: “Tonight President Obama set forth a bold plan to secure our nation’s borders, help keep families together, and expand our economy.  The President’s action was a necessary step in a Republican Congress that has refused to take up immigration reform. However, our country must come together to pass an immigration plan that will be successful. It is my hope that the President’s executive actions will push Congress to bring legislation to the floor under regular order.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/enroll-indiana,Enroll Indiana!,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend,   Enrollment has begun for Indiana residents seeking health insurance through the federal health exchanges established under the Affordable Care Act.   If you or someone you know is uninsured, visit www.healthcare.gov  to apply for coverage for 2015.  Even if you signed up for health insurance last year, shop around, you may find a plan that better fits your needs and budget this year. There is also in-person assistance in our area to help you navigate through this process.  Click here  to find assistance near you.  The last day to enroll for coverage that begins on January 1, 2015 is December 15th.  If you are unable to enroll during the November 15th – December 15th enrollment period, you have until February 15th, 2015 to apply for coverage that will begin on March 1st, 2015.  If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my office. The telephone number is 317-283-6516.   Regards,   Inside Scoop: Earlier this month, I had the privilege of meeting Marilyn Shank, one of thousands of Hoosiers benefiting from the Affordable Care Act. Marilyn and her husband are saving $1,200/month on health insurance thanks to the ACA.  Do you have an ACA success story? Tell us your story and Congressman Carson might share your story too! Email aca07@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-statement-president-obamas-executive-action-immigration,Carson Statement on President Obama’s Executive Action on Immigration,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) released the following on President Barack Obama's Executive Action on immigration: ""Tonight President Obama set forth a bold plan to secure our nation's borders, help keep families together, and expand our economy. The President's action was a necessary step in a Republican Congress that has refused to take up immigration reform. However, our country must come together to pass an immigration plan that will be successful. It is my hope that the President's executive actions will push Congress to bring legislation to the floor under regular order.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:56Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/carson-statement-on-the-loss-of-abdul-rahman-peter-kassig,Carson Statement on the Loss of Abdul-Rahman (Peter) Kassig,2014-11-16,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"""My deepest condolences go out to the friends and family of Abdul-Rahman Kassig, formerly known as Peter. The brutality shown to Kassig is in stark contrast to the bravery he displayed while serving his nation as an Army Ranger and dedicated humanitarian.  My prayers are with the family and those still suffering under the violence in the Middle East.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-statement-loss-abdul-rahman-peter-kassig,Carson Statement on the Loss of Abdul-Rahman (Peter) Kassig,2014-11-16,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"""My deepest condolences go out to the friends and family of Abdul-Rahman Kassig, formerly known as Peter. The brutality shown to Kassig is in stark contrast to the bravery he displayed while serving his nation as an Army Ranger and dedicated humanitarian. My prayers are with the family and those still suffering under the violence in the Middle East.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:56Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/honoring-service-and-sacrifice,Honoring Service and Sacrifice,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend,  This week as we commemorate the 61st Anniversary of Veterans Day, I’d like to reflect on what General Douglas MacArthur said during a speech:  “The soldier, above all others, is required to practice the greatest act of religious training—sacrifice.”  That sacrifice is embodied in extraordinary Hoosiers who have worn the uniform of the United States of America.  There are approximately 476,000 veterans living in Indiana. Just as they stood watch on our behalf, we have a moral obligation to support them. It is with their contributions in mind that I have authored the Military Suicide Reduction Act, Military Mental Health Empowerment Act, and the Service Members Mental Health Screening Act, all of which improve mental health services available to our service members and help them diagnose and treat devastating mental health issues before returning home. I have also been an advocate for the necessary reforms to take place within the VA so that Hoosier veterans can get the care they deserve in a timely manner. It is my privilege to be a champion for veterans in Congress and I will continue to work with my colleagues to support veteran programs. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I will continue to focus on the needs of our military in Indiana and across the nation—to keep them safe in combat and support them on their return home.  God Bless all of our veterans, past, present and future, and God bless our troops and military families serving today.   Regards, Inside Scoop: Thank you! Last week, I was honored and humbled to be elected to continue to serve my neighbors, friends and family in the District where I was born and raised. I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish over the last several years, but our work is not done.  My focus in Indianapolis will not waver from looking for ways to help create jobs, cut crime and grow the economy.  Today, I am renewing my commitment to every Hoosier - regardless of race, income, or who you love - I will continue to work hard to make things better for you and your family in Indianapolis.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/working-to-end-breast-cancer,Working to End Breast Cancer,2014-10-28,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to pause and honor the brave women in our lives who are struggling with, have survived, or may have lost their battle with breast cancer.  While significant advancements have been made in the treatment and early detection of breast cancer in recent years, it remains the second most deadly cancer among women.   The American Cancer Society estimates that one in eight women living in the U.S. will develop breast cancer during the course of her life.    Recently, I supported legislation that would help ensure patients receive adequate support after undergoing breast cancer surgery.  The bill requires health plans to cover hospital stays for at least 48 hours following a mastectomy or lumpectomy and at least 24 hours following a lymph node removal. Furthermore, if passed, it would require insurance providers to cover all secondary consultations, when necessary.  In addition, I belong to the House Congressional Cancer Caucus. This bi-partisan group of lawmakers is committed to creating national policies that advance cancer research and improve the treatment and diagnosis of this disease.   Together, we can make a difference and end breast cancer. Please don’t hesitate to contact me on this or any other federal issue of importance to you. Regards,     André Carson   INSIDE SCOOP: Would you like to intern for Congressman Carson? Congressman Carson is currently seeking college students or recent graduates wishing to gain experience in a fast-paced congressional office for a full-time or part-time Spring Semester Internship. We are seeking motivated, organized, and reliable individuals to assist the legislative and administrative staff with day-to-day duties in our Indianapolis and Washington, D.C. offices. Interested applicants should send a resume, cover letter detailing availability, one short writing sample and at least two references to In07Internship@mail.house.gov. Please specify if you are interested in our Indianapolis or Washington, D.C. internship. We’re looking forward to hearing from you! Opportunity for our Students:  This is a reminder that military academy nomination applications are due on Saturday, November 1st. Each year it is my privilege to nominate exceptional young men and women to our nation's service academies. For more information visit: https://carson.house.gov/services/military-academy-nominations Voting: Our Privilege and Responsibility  One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process.  Below are important dates for Indiana voters:     Monday, November 3, 2014 – Early voting ends (Noon) Tuesday, November 4, 2014 – General Election Day",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/medicare-open-enrollment-happening-now,Medicare Open Enrollment Happening Now,2014-10-21,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, For nearly fifty years, Medicare has provided millions of Hoosiers with quality and dependable health care in retirement. That is why I am pleased to tell you that the Medicare open enrollment period has begun for 2015.  If you are satisfied with the Medicare coverage you have, you don’t need to do anything at all. If you are currently a Medicare beneficiary, you remain eligible and will continue to receive Medicare benefits.  However, if you are interested in making changes to your Medicare plan or need to sign up for 2015 coverage, you should do so before the enrollment period closes on December 7, 2014.   Below are some helpful resources courtesy of Medicare.gov that will guide anyone interested in participating.   Medicare Plan Finder -- Here you can review, compare, and join a 2015 plan using your zip code or through a more personalized search. Enroll in a Medicare Plan -- Visit this page if you already know the name of the plan you want to join. Check Your Enrollment -- Use this tool to check your current and future enrollment.   Remember, this is the only time you can change your plan this year, so take this opportunity to find an option that works for you or your eligible family member. Please don’t hesitate to contact me on this or any other federal issue of importance to you.   Regards,     André Carson   Inside Scoop: Constituent Services:  Help with Veterans services Earlier this month, my office was able to help James, a local veteran, receive $35,000 in retroactive pay after he had waited nearly a year for a hearing.  Once James contacted my office, we were able expedite the process for a hearing, which James received three months later.  After the VA ruled in favor of James, he received the back pay he was owed less than a month later.   Opportunity for our Students: This is a reminder that military academy nomination applications are due on Saturday, November 1st. Each year it is my privilege to nominate exceptional young men and women to our nation's service academies. For more information visit: https://carson.house.gov/constituent-services/military-academy-nominations",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-helps-secure-grant-to-reduce-unemployment,Congressman Carson helps secure grant to reduce unemployment,2014-10-15,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"INDIANAPOLIS - Today, Congressman André Carson announced that EmployIndy is the recipient of an $8.3M grant on behalf of the Department of Labor to help reduce long-term unemployment in the region. The grant which runs through 2018, will create Employ Up, a program designed to train Hoosiers in STEM-related skills in an effort reduce the need for H-1B visas.  In July, Congressman Carson wrote a letter of support to the Department of Labor in support of the grant request and expressing his thanks for the good work being done by EmployIndy. “This funding is critical for unemployed Hoosiers to begin receiving the specialized skills and education needed to pursue a career in STEM/technical occupations,” said Carson.  “The City of Indianapolis and the larger Marion County area have seen tremendous growth in technical industries, including information technology and healthcare.  These two industries account for over 21,000 job openings per year, a large number of which are being filled by foreign workers through the H-1B visa program, instead of our local residents.” “With 80 percent of STEM-related occupations requiring some form of post-secondary certification or degree, we cannot ask our area employers to hire local residents unless we have a pipeline to supply them with the qualified talent they require,” said Brooke Huntington, president and CEO of EmployIndy.  “Employ Up will target a population that has had difficulty re-engaging in the workforce and provide them with pathways to successful careers in industries that will continue to grow and drive our region’s growth into the future.”  The Employ Up program will begin in April 2015, and will serve residents with a combination of assessment, training, and employment services.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-helps-secure-grant-reduce-unemployment,Congressman Carson helps secure grant to reduce unemployment,2014-10-15,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS - Today, Congressman André Carson announced that EmployIndy is the recipient of an $8.3M grant on behalf of the Department of Labor to help reduce long-term unemployment in the region. The grant which runs through 2018, will create Employ Up, a program designed to train Hoosiers in STEM-related skills in an effort reduce the need for H-1B visas. In July, Congressman Carson wrote a letter of support to the Department of Labor in support of the grant request and expressing his thanks for the good work being done by EmployIndy. ""This funding is critical for unemployed Hoosiers to begin receiving the specialized skills and education needed to pursue a career in STEM/technical occupations,"" said Carson. ""The City of Indianapolis and the larger Marion County area have seen tremendous growth in technical industries, including information technology and healthcare. These two industries account for over 21,000 job openings per year, a large number of which are being filled by foreign workers through the H-1B visa program, instead of our local residents."" ""With 80 percent of STEM-related occupations requiring some form of post-secondary certification or degree, we cannot ask our area employers to hire local residents unless we have a pipeline to supply them with the qualified talent they require,"" said Brooke Huntington, president and CEO of EmployIndy. ""Employ Up will target a population that has had difficulty re-engaging in the workforce and provide them with pathways to successful careers in industries that will continue to grow and drive our region's growth into the future."" The Employ Up program will begin in April 2015, and will serve residents with a combination of assessment, training, and employment services.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:40Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/bringing-my-office-to-you,Bringing My Office To You,2014-10-14,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, One of the most rewarding parts of being your Representative is helping you cut through the red tape you may encounter when working with federal agencies.  While my district office is centrally located, Indianapolis is large and I realize it can be difficult at times to visit.  That is why I am committed to ensuring the resources my office offers are more accessible by bringing these services closer to you. It is important to hear from my constituents so I can do my job well.  I hope you will take this opportunity to reach out to my office to share your thoughts and concerns on the issues that matter most to you and your family.  Most importantly, if you are in need of assistance, my staff and I stand ready to help.  We are able to assist you with a range of issues dealing with any federal agency, including the Internal Revenue Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security, Medicare, Immigration, and others.  I remain devoted to serving each and every constituent of the 7th Congressional District and ensuring the services my office provides are available.  I hope you will stop by and visit my staff in your neighborhood soon.  Details are listed below!   As always, it is an honor to serve you.    What:          Office of Congressman Carson Community Hours Where:        Healthnet Administrative Offices                      3403 E. Raymond St. When:         Tuesday, October 21. 2014                        4:00-7:00pm   Regards, André Inside Scoop: Constituent Services:  Help with the IRS Recently, my office received a call from Jeff, who needed help receiving his 2012 tax return from the IRS.  After working diligently with the agency and providing all of the requested documents multiple times, the IRS continued to hold his refund and was unable to provide a timeline for the release.  My staff quickly got in touch with the Taxpayer Advocate Service to ensure Jeff would be issued a check promptly.  After just a couple of weeks, Jeff received his full refund plus interest owed to him by the IRS for the delay.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/praying-for-kassig,Praying for Kassig,2014-10-07,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, Last week, I was stunned to see a fellow Hoosier threatened with death by the terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).   Indianapolis native, Abdul-Rahman Kassig, formerly known as Peter Kassig, was captured by ISIL over a year ago while performing humanitarian work in Syria.  Abdul-Rahman bravely served his nation as an Army Ranger, then dedicated himself to providing food and medical supplies to those suffering from violence in Syria.  While the United States and its international partners must stand strong against the brutality of ISIL, it is just as critical to remember the vital work that he was doing when captured.  This brave Hoosier represents the best of our nation.  He felt a strong connection with those suffering in Syria and risked his life to bring them some relief.  His capture should reaffirm the importance of carrying on his effort to bring peace and comfort to those in need. I ask for continued prayers and support for the Kassig family during this painful time.  As a community we must respect their privacy and keep them in our thoughts during the trying days ahead.   Regards,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/carson-statement-on-news-of-isil-hostage-hoosier-peter-kassig,"Carson Statement on News of ISIL Hostage, Hoosier, Peter Kassig",2014-10-03,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman André Carson released the following statement tonight regarding the news of ISIL hostage, Hoosier, Peter Kassig. “Tonight I encourage my fellow Hoosiers and Americans to join me in praying for Peter Kassig and his family during this unbelievably difficult time.  No family should ever have to endure a tragedy like this.  As a community we must respect their privacy and keep them in our thoughts during the trying days ahead.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-statement-news-isil-hostage-hoosier-peter-kassig,"Carson Statement on News of ISIL Hostage, Hoosier, Peter Kassig",2014-10-03,2014,2014-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman André Carson released the following statement tonight regarding the news of ISIL hostage, Hoosier, Peter Kassig. ""Tonight I encourage my fellow Hoosiers and Americans to join me in praying for Peter Kassig and his family during this unbelievably difficult time. No family should ever have to endure a tragedy like this. As a community we must respect their privacy and keep them in our thoughts during the trying days ahead.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:40Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/visiting-washington-my-office-can-help,Visiting Washington? My Office Can Help,2014-09-30,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, Are you planning a visit to Washington, D.C.? Whether you're coming on a short business trip or an extended family vacation, my office can help you make arrangements to see some of the most popular federal attractions in our nation's capital. By filling out this form, my office can help you book tours to the White House, U.S. Capitol, Pentagon, State Department, Supreme Court, Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and the Library of Congress. After submitting your tour request, you can expect to hear from my office within a couple of days. These tours are an excellent way to see all that the nation's capital has to offer.  All of these tours are free of charge. Tickets are provided to 7th Congressional District constituents on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to the large number of visitors, please place your request as early as possible to maximize your chances. Of course, there are many other places in Washington, D.C. that you and your family may be interested in visiting. The links below have information on other popular sites located throughout the capital region. Mount Vernon The Smithsonian National Mall and Memorial Parks As always, please feel free to call or email my office if there is anything I can do for you. Regards, André   Voting: Our Privilege and Responsibility   One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process. Below are important dates for Indiana voters:   Monday, October 6, 2014 – Voter Registration Ends Tuesday. November 4, 2014 – General Election Day You can register to vote in Indiana by clicking here: https://indianavoters.in.gov/PublicSite/PublicMain.aspx",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/carson-statement-on-the-resignation-of-attorney-general-eric-holder,Congressman Carson Statement on the Resignation of Attorney General Eric Holder,2014-09-25,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) released the following statement today after Attorney General Eric Holder announced he will depart the Justice Department once a successor is confirmed:   “I want to express my sincere gratitude to Attorney General Eric Holder for his remarkable tenure leading the Department of Justice.  For nearly three decades, Attorney General Holder has dedicated his life and career working toward equal justice for all Americans.  His efforts have challenged our country to look at recidivism rates and sentencing reform, the protection of voting rights and the importance of safeguarding civil rights for all Americans.  I thank Attorney General Holder for his service, and I wish him and his wife Sharon the very best in the future.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-statement-resignation-attorney-general-eric-holder,Congressman Carson Statement on the Resignation of Attorney General Eric Holder,2014-09-25,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) released the following statement today after Attorney General Eric Holder announced he will depart the Justice Department once a successor is confirmed: ""I want to express my sincere gratitude to Attorney General Eric Holder for his remarkable tenure leading the Department of Justice. For nearly three decades, Attorney General Holder has dedicated his life and career working toward equal justice for all Americans. His efforts have challenged our country to look at recidivism rates and sentencing reform, the protection of voting rights and the importance of safeguarding civil rights for all Americans. I thank Attorney General Holder for his service, and I wish him and his wife Sharon the very best in the future.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-helps-volunteers-of-america-of-indiana-secure-one,Congressman Carson helps Volunteers of America of Indiana secure one million dollar grant,2014-09-24,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman André Carson announced that Volunteers of America of Indiana is the recipient of a one million dollar grant from the Department of Justice to help reduce recidivism rates across the state. The funds will be used to fund mentoring for mothers and fathers that are within six months of release from a correctional facility.  The goal is to reduce recidivism rates by providing mentoring that focuses on family reunification, employment and training and substance abuse treatment.  The Department of Justice awarded grants in several categories; however, Volunteers of America of Indiana is the only recipient in the state to receive an award in the ‘Comprehensive Community-Based Adult Reentry Program Utilizing Mentors’ category. “Volunteers of America has been a leader in providing innovative and effective services to the prison re-entry population since the early 1900's,”  said Will Raihl, President/CEO of Volunteers of America of Indiana.  “This grant will allow Volunteers of America to continue the support and help we provide to this at-risk population.” In May, Congressman André Carson wrote a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder urging support for the grant and asking that Volunteers of America of Indiana receive the requested funding. “By securing one million dollars in federal funding, our state can better equip parents with the skills they need to be effective parents,” said Carson.  “Everyone wins when families are able to succeed together.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-helps-volunteers-america-indiana-secure-one-million-dollar,Congressman Carson helps Volunteers of America of Indiana secure one million dollar grant,2014-09-24,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman André Carson announced that Volunteers of America of Indiana is the recipient of a one million dollar grant from the Department of Justice to help reduce recidivism rates across the state. The funds will be used to fund mentoring for mothers and fathers that are within six months of release from a correctional facility. The goal is to reduce recidivism rates by providing mentoring that focuses on family reunification, employment and training and substance abuse treatment. The Department of Justice awarded grants in several categories; however, Volunteers of America of Indiana is the only recipient in the state to receive an award in the ‘Comprehensive Community-Based Adult Reentry Program Utilizing Mentors' category. ""Volunteers of America has been a leader in providing innovative and effective services to the prison re-entry population since the early 1900's,"" said Will Raihl, President/CEO of Volunteers of America of Indiana. ""This grant will allow Volunteers of America to continue the support and help we provide to this at-risk population."" In May, Congressman André Carson wrote a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder urging support for the grant and asking that Volunteers of America of Indiana receive the requested funding. ""By securing one million dollars in federal funding, our state can better equip parents with the skills they need to be effective parents,"" said Carson. ""Everyone wins when families are able to succeed together.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/opportunity-for-our-students,Opportunity for our Students,2014-09-23,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, As students and parents discuss their plans for this academic year, I want to tell you about a unique educational opportunity to develop physically, ethically and intellectually while building a foundation for a rewarding and challenging career while serving our country. One of my favorite duties as a Member of Congress is nominating Indiana’s best and brightest young men and women to our nation’s service academies. These schools are the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. These institutions provide a world-class college education while preparing young Americans to be officers in the United States military. Each academy provides education, room and board free of charge, instead obligating graduates to serve a term in active military service. While many graduates go on to hold high level military positions, others pursue successful careers in government, business, academia and countless other fields. Please check my website for a comprehensive list of individual requirements, and contact information for staff members who can answer questions and assist with the application process. If you know a highly motivated, well-rounded, successful student, please share this information with him or her, and with their family. The opportunity to attend a service academy and prepare for a career in the U.S. Armed Forces is an exceptional educational path for young people to explore. I’m impressed by the outstanding group of applicants I meet each year during this process and I am very proud of Hoosiers who aspire to be America’s future military leaders. Regards, André",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-helps-secure-anti-violence-grant-for-local-schools,Congressman Carson helps secure anti-violence grant for local schools,2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Department of Education announced that Metropolitan School District in Pike Township was awarded nearly $1 million dollars over the course of the next five years to help prevent violence and reduce negative student behavior. The money is part of the Project Prevent grant program, a program aimed at expanding the capacity of local education agencies to more effectively assist affected schools in communities exposed to violence. In June, Congressman André Carson sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, on behalf of Metropolitan School District’s  $998,573 award. “Breaking the cycle of violence begins with our youth,” said Carson.  “This grant will provide funding for  increased  conflict resolution and counseling services  that will help stop violence before it begins.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-helps-secure-anti-violence-grant-local-schools,Congressman Carson helps secure anti-violence grant for local schools,2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Department of Education announced that Metropolitan School District in Pike Township was awarded nearly $1 million dollars over the course of the next five years to help prevent violence and reduce negative student behavior. The money is part of the Project Prevent grant program, a program aimed at expanding the capacity of local education agencies to more effectively assist affected schools in communities exposed to violence. In June, Congressman André Carson sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, on behalf of Metropolitan School District's $998,573 award. ""Breaking the cycle of violence begins with our youth,"" said Carson. ""This grant will provide funding for increased conflict resolution and counseling services that will help stop violence before it begins.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918215533/http://visclosky.house.gov/opening-statement-honorable-peter-visclosky-ranking-member-defense-subcommittee-house-committee-1,"OPENING STATEMENT The Honorable Peter Visclosky Ranking Member, Defense Subcommittee House Committee on Appropriations",2014-09-16,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"OPENING STATEMENT The Honorable Peter Visclosky Ranking Member, Defense Subcommittee House Committee on Appropriations H.J.Res. 124, the Fiscal Year 2015 Continuing Resolution, Floor Deliberation September 16, 2014 I thank Ranking Member Lowey for yielding me time.  Despite the strong leadership and very best efforts of the Chairman and Ranking Member, I am abjectly disappointed that we again find ourselves in the position of considering another Continuing Resolution.  CRs are no way to run a nation.  We cannot expect good government if we are incapable of providing appropriations in a timely and predictable manner.  Additionally, I find it inexcusable that we have further muddled the debate surrounding the Continuing Resolution by pairing it with an amendment to provide authority for the U.S. military to train and assist the Syrian opposition forces.  I am greatly concerned about providing another authority for conducting military operations in the Middle East.  In letters to Congress, the President has cited the powers granted to him in Article II of the U.S. Constitution as the legal basis for some of the actions already taken to combat ISIL.  In recent briefings and public statements, the Administration also indicates that the Authorized Use of Military Force (AUMF) resolutions passed in 2001 and 2002, in the immediate wake of 9/11, remain the legal foundation for current operations.  However, these authorities were approved by the Congress in a different time, and for different conflicts, and with very different Members.  For example, less than 35 percent of the Members of the current House served in 2001 and 2002.  The time has come to rationalize authorities with the needs of the current conflict, and for the current legislative body to weigh in on this matter of war and peace, rather than rely on authorities intended for Saddam Hussein and Osama Bin Laden. Additionally, I appreciate the President’s honesty in pointing out that the effort to combat ISIL will extend into the next Administration.  So why, after three years of civil war in Syria, are we including this authority in a Continuing Resolution that will be in effect for less than three months.  Providing a fleeting authority for what we all anticipate will be a protracted effort is not sound policy in my opinion, especially as we will hit the replay button in December.  Similarly, the Continuing Resolution is a stopgap appropriations measure, and the funding to sustain training and equipping of the Syrian opposition will expire in less than 90 days.  Further, this approach fails to take into consideration the long term financial costs of conducting this mission, which has been estimated to cost upwards of $500 million a year. I believe there is an inherent flaw in this strategy: training and equipping non-state actors as the main effort in combating a threat to the region and our national security.  The United States invested lives and innumerable injuries, as well as a great deal of national treasure, to train and equip the Iraqi Army, only to see the resolve of that professional force collapse in the midst of serious conflict.  Why then do we expect the next force we train to behave differently?  We must also ask ourselves if we can truly “vet” these rebel groups beyond their known affiliations, and ensure we are not arming the next extremist threat to the region, and the world. I would note that recently, some of our allies and partners in the region have made commitments of equipment, training areas, and financial resources.  I believe far more will ultimately be required of them, including leadership and troops of their own, to truly degrade and defeat ISIL.         Finally, in briefing members of Congress over the past several days, officials from DoD, the Intelligence Community, and the National Security Council Staff expressed the view that defense and intelligence activities in the region are complementary.  I remain unconvinced these activities are fully coordinated. The task of fighting ISIL is complicated.  I am gravely concerned with the complexities we face while ensuring the safety of our forces.  It is for these reasons that I am opposed to the amendment that will be offered by Chairman McKeon.     I yield back the balance of my time.                                                                                                                                                              ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-helps-secure-2-million-tiger-grant-for-indianapolis,Congressman Carson helps secure $2 million TIGER grant for Indianapolis,2014-09-12,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) announced that Indianapolis is the recipient of a $2 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant.  This grant will be used to assist IndyGo and the City of Indianapolis with the next phases of development, environmental analysis and preliminary engineering for the city’s Red Line.  This 28-mile transit spine is planned to run from Grand Park in Westfield through downtown Indianapolis to Old Town Greenwood, increasing transit options for Central Indiana residents.  Additionally, the planning grant will look at vastly improving local bus service, by adding express and circular routes to growing suburban areas, in addition to five new rapid transit lines. “By securing over $2 million federal dollars, Indianapolis will get a head start in expanding transit options for Central Indiana residents,” said Carson.  “This investment is critical to ensuring that our public transportation system expands and improves in the years to come.” TIGER grants began in 2009 to help cities invest in road, rail, transit and port projects that promise to achieve national objectives.  This year, Congressman André Carson sent appropriators a letter of support urging them to continue funding the program, as well as, Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx, in support of Indianapolis’ grant application.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-helps-secure-2-million-tiger-grant-indianapolis,Congressman Carson helps secure $2 million TIGER grant for Indianapolis,2014-09-12,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) announced that Indianapolis is the recipient of a $2 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant. This grant will be used to assist IndyGo and the City of Indianapolis with the next phases of development, environmental analysis and preliminary engineering for the city's Red Line. This 28-mile transit spine is planned to run from Grand Park in Westfield through downtown Indianapolis to Old Town Greenwood, increasing transit options for Central Indiana residents. Additionally, the planning grant will look at vastly improving local bus service, by adding express and circular routes to growing suburban areas, in addition to five new rapid transit lines. ""By securing over $2 million federal dollars, Indianapolis will get a head start in expanding transit options for Central Indiana residents,"" said Carson. ""This investment is critical to ensuring that our public transportation system expands and improves in the years to come."" TIGER grants began in 2009 to help cities invest in road, rail, transit and port projects that promise to achieve national objectives. This year, Congressman André Carson sent appropriators a letter of support urging them to continue funding the program, as well as, Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx, in support of Indianapolis' grant application.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carsons-statement-on-president-obamas-address-on-the-threat,Congressman Carson's statement on President Obama's address on the threat posed by ISIL,2014-09-10,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) released the following statement following tonight’s Presidential address.   “Tonight, the President addressed the continued advancement of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).  The unprecedented gains ISIL is making in Iraq and Syria threaten to destabilize more than just the region.  By capturing major cities, sophisticated weaponry, oil fields and other forms of financing, ISIL has the resources to pose a real threat to our national security.    “I stand by the President’s decision to work with our allies and expand support for the Iraqi military and Syrian rebels.  By providing training to the rebels and air strike support in Iraq, the United States and our allies can significantly degrade ISIL.    “I will be keeping in close contact with the White House.  If the President intends to extend this campaign beyond what he has outlined tonight, he has an obligation to come before Congress for proper authorization.  After more than a decade of war, the American people are not prepared for another prolonged conflict.  I will hesitate to provide any additional authorization without significant consultation.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carsons-statement-president-obamas-address-threat-posed-isil,Congressman Carson's statement on President Obama's address on the threat posed by ISIL,2014-09-10,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) released the following statement following tonight's Presidential address. ""Tonight, the President addressed the continued advancement of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). The unprecedented gains ISIL is making in Iraq and Syria threaten to destabilize more than just the region. By capturing major cities, sophisticated weaponry, oil fields and other forms of financing, ISIL has the resources to pose a real threat to our national security. ""I stand by the President's decision to work with our allies and expand support for the Iraqi military and Syrian rebels. By providing training to the rebels and air strike support in Iraq, the United States and our allies can significantly degrade ISIL.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/improving-indianas-infrastructure,Improving Indiana's Infrastructure,2014-09-09,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend: Last week, I spent the day with U.S. Department of Labor Secretary, Thomas Perez, during his trip to Indianapolis. Our visit included a stop to Indy’s south side where construction is taking place on the 465-65 interchange.  There, we met with carpenters, labor leaders, and officials from Walsh Construction Company to learn about the project. As a member of the Transportation Committee in Congress, I fight hard to ensure Indiana receives critical funding for its infrastructure - including transit, aviation, rail and highway projects like the 465-65 interchange.  These decisions result in jobs for thousands of Hoosiers and millions of dollars in commerce, both from construction and from transportation of goods.While I am pleased to announce the 465-65 interchange will be completed in November, I know that too many of our country’s roads remain in poor condition.  One in four bridges require significant repair or cannot handle today’s traffic, while sixty five percent of America’s major roads are rated in less than good condition.  What our country needs is a long-term transportation bill that addresses our country’s crumbling infrastructure. Recently, I signed onto a letter asking the leadership in Congress to bring a long-term transportation funding bill to the floor for a vote.  Our country is long overdue for a safer, more modern transportation system.I take great pride in knowing that my work on the Transportation Committee is making a direct impact on the 7th District.   If you are interested in more information about my work in Washington or if there is anything I can do for you, please contact my office. André Voting: Our Right, Our Responsibility One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process. Below are important dates for Indiana voters: October 6, 2014 – Voter Registration EndsNovember 4, 2014 – General Election Day",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-recognizes-rolls-royce-for-its-work-with-the-us-air,Congressman Carson recognizes Rolls-Royce for its work with the U.S. Air Force,2014-09-05,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"INDIANAPOLIS— This morning, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) along with Northrop Grumman Corporation, recognized Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis for its support of the U.S. Air Force Global Hawk Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) program. The Global Hawk is a high-altitude, long endurance unmanned aircraft that provides intelligence and surveillance capabilities for the U.S. Air Force.  Each aircraft is powered by a single Rolls-Royce AE 3007H, an engine manufactured in Indianapolis. “Hoosier hard work and ingenuity has been key to Global Hawk’s success, said Carson.  “Each engine is designed, developed, and manufactured right here in Indianapolis, leading to better intelligence for our warfighters.”   This is the second year that  Rolls-Royce is being recognized with the “Support to Roche Sustainment Excellence Award,” for their outstanding performance in the Global Hawk fleet.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-recognizes-rolls-royce-its-work-us-air-force,Congressman Carson recognizes Rolls-Royce for its work with the U.S. Air Force,2014-09-05,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS— This morning, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) along with Northrop Grumman Corporation, recognized Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis for its support of the U.S. Air Force Global Hawk Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) program. The Global Hawk is a high-altitude, long endurance unmanned aircraft that provides intelligence and surveillance capabilities for the U.S. Air Force. Each aircraft is powered by a single Rolls-Royce AE 3007H, an engine manufactured in Indianapolis. ""Hoosier hard work and ingenuity has been key to Global Hawk's success, said Carson. ""Each engine is designed, developed, and manufactured right here in Indianapolis, leading to better intelligence for our warfighters."" This is the second year that Rolls-Royce is being recognized with the ""Support to Roche Sustainment Excellence Award,"" for their outstanding performance in the Global Hawk fleet.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-andr-carson-to-join-us-labor-secretary-perez-and-sen,Congressman Andr Carson to join US Labor Secretary Perez and Sen. Donnelly to discuss Indianapolis successful workforce development programs,2014-09-03,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"INDIANAPOLIS –  Congressman Andrė Carson, (IN – 07), U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez, and U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly will visit Pike High School in Indianapolis, a recent Youth CareerConnect grantee,Wednesday, Sept. 3, to see first-hand how students are receiving the skills they need for in-demand jobs. Youth CareerConnect encourages America’s school districts, institutions of higher education, the workforce investment system and their partners to combine rigorous educational standards with work experiences and skills in ways that enhance instruction and deliver real-world learning opportunities for students.   Congressman Carson, Secretary Perez and Senator Donnelly will then have lunch with workers, AFL-CIO leadership and management from Walsh Construction Co. to discuss workforce development and job training.   To conclude, Congressman Carson, Secretary Perez and Senator Donnelly will visit Allison Transmission, where they will work alongside Hoosiers on the plant floor. This visit will highlight the successful partnership between Allison Transmission and the local workforce in order to fill high-skilled jobs in advanced manufacturing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andre-carson-join-us-labor-secretary-perez-and-sen-donnelly,Congressman Andrė Carson to join US Labor Secretary Perez and Sen. Donnelly to discuss Indianapolis’ successful workforce development programs,2014-09-03,2014,2014-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS – Congressman Andrė Carson, (IN – 07), U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez, and U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly will visit Pike High School in Indianapolis, a recent Youth CareerConnect grantee,Wednesday, Sept. 3, to see first-hand how students are receiving the skills they need for in-demand jobs. Youth CareerConnect encourages America's school districts, institutions of higher education, the workforce investment system and their partners to combine rigorous educational standards with work experiences and skills in ways that enhance instruction and deliver real-world learning opportunities for students. Congressman Carson, Secretary Perez and Senator Donnelly will then have lunch with workers, AFL-CIO leadership and management from Walsh Construction Co. to discuss workforce development and job training. To conclude, Congressman Carson, Secretary Perez and Senator Donnelly will visit Allison Transmission, where they will work alongside Hoosiers on the plant floor. This visit will highlight the successful partnership between Allison Transmission and the local workforce in order to fill high-skilled jobs in advanced manufacturing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-andr-carsons-statement-in-response-to-todays-funeral-for,Congressman Andr Carson's statement in response to today's funeral for Michael Brown,2014-08-25,2014,2014-08,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"""Today, as we honor the life of Michael Brown, we must also think about ways to prevent such a tragedy from ever happening again. Like many Americans, I am saddened and frustrated by a criminal justice system that too often fails people of color.  ""It is my hope that in the wake of this life cut too short, our country can address the injustices that continue to exist in our communities today. I am committed to working with my colleagues to find common sense solutions to ensure a more tolerant and just society.""   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andre-carsons-statement-response-todays-funeral-michael-brown,Congressman André Carson's statement in response to today's funeral for Michael Brown,2014-08-25,2014,2014-08,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"""Today, as we honor the life of Michael Brown, we must also think about ways to prevent such a tragedy from ever happening again. Like many Americans, I am saddened and frustrated by a criminal justice system that too often fails people of color. ""It is my hope that in the wake of this life cut too short, our country can address the injustices that continue to exist in our communities today. I am committed to working with my colleagues to find common sense solutions to ensure a more tolerant and just society."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:06Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/homes-for-our-heroes,Homes for our Heroes,2014-08-20,2014,2014-08,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, Our men and women in uniform risk their lives to protect the freedoms we all hold dear. Tragically, after returning to civilian life, far too many brave Hoosier veterans fall into homelessness, living on the street or in a shelter. Fortunately, a program in Marion County is working to change that.  This week, I was honored to team up with the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Indianapolis to let local veterans know about affordable home ownership opportunities.   With the help of donors and volunteers, veterans can own a Habitat home for an average mortgage of $400.00 a month depending on the size of the house.  I can’t think of a better way to say thank you to a service member than providing them with affordable housing.   Please share this information with your family and friends, as well as in your neighborhood. To learn more about this program, click here: https://www.indyhabitat.org/ Sincerely,   Inside Scoop:   ICYMI Last week, I issued a statement in response to the tragic events taking place in Ferguson, Missouri.   “It is my hope that as the family of Michael Brown comes to terms with their terrible loss, communities across America will honor his memory by ensuring our country’s children of color are protected equally under the law. I know the struggle for peace and justice matters to every American, just as it does to the community of Ferguson.  As a former police officer, I also know that law enforcement is supposed to protect and serve, not intimidate and assault.  Our nation has a rich history of peaceful protests to advance civil and human rights—these voices are too valuable to be silenced by violence and the use of unnecessary and excessive force.” Voting: Our Right, Our Responsibility One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process. Below are important dates for Indiana voters: October 6, 2014 – Voter Registration Ends  November 4, 2014 – General Election Day",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/protecting-voting-rights,Protecting Voting Rights,2014-08-20,2014,2014-08,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, This month we celebrate the 49th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, landmark legislation that helped eliminate discriminatory voting practices, and supported our country’s promise that everyone, no matter their race, has the right to vote.  However, last year, the Supreme Court struck down part of this important legislation, leaving Congress to come up with an amended law. In an effort to address the Supreme Court’s damaging decision and reinstate the benefits of the Voting Rights Act, I am pleased to support the Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2014 (H.R. 3899). This bill updates the provisions struck down by the Court and ensures that the constitutional right to vote continues to be protected for all Americans.    Our right to vote is the very basis of our democracy and the reason our nation continues to flourish. Every American has an obligation to protect this right for our fellow citizens.  I will continue to support legislation that reinforces voting rights and opportunities and hope you will join me in this cause.  As always, please feel free to call or email my office if there is anything I can do for you. Regards, Rep. Carson   Inside Scoop: Central Indiana Job Fair Wrap-up Thank you to everyone who helped make the 5th Annual Central Indiana Job Fair a huge success.  With the help of Ivy Tech Community College, 1,280 Hoosiers seeking jobs were able to meet with 78 employers from across Central Indiana.  If you have a success story or a great photo from this or any other of my job fairs, I would love to hear from you! Please email: jessica.gail@mail.house.gov   Voting: Our Privilege and Responsibility  One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process. Below are important dates for Indiana voters: October 6, 2014 – Voter Registration Ends  November 4, 2014 – General Election Day",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://visclosky.house.gov/press-release/visclosky-announces-students-who-have-completed-internship-program,Visclosky announces students who have completed internship program,2014-08-20,2014,2014-08,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,"Michael A. Peterson of Highland completes Visclosky internship U.S.  Congressman Peter J. Visclosky announced today that Highland resident Michael A. Peterson completed a summer internship at his Merrillville district office.  Michael is entering his senior year at Valparaiso University.  Peterson is President of the Valparaiso University College Democrats, Vice-President of the Valparaiso University Model UN Club, and Vice-President of the Valparaiso University Red Cross Club.  Peterson is also a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society and the Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society. “Interning with Congressman Visclosky in both Washington, D.C., and the district office has been a truly enjoyable experience.  I have learned about the legislative process and have gained a better understanding of the First Congressional District.  It was a pleasure serving the citizens of the Northwest Indiana,” said Peterson.  “I appreciate Michael’s willingness to take on the responsibility of serving as an intern in my Congressional office.” Congressman Visclosky said. “Throughout his internship, Michael’s attitude and high standards were a strong asset to my office, and I know these attributes will serve him well in the future.” Congressman Visclosky offers internships in his district and Washington, D.C., offices throughout the year.  Intern applicants must be enrolled in high school or college, be eligible to receive school or service organization credit, and are encouraged to have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Visit https://visclosky.house.gov/serving-you/internships for more information. ### Melissa A. Borom of Merrillville completes Visclosky internship U.S.  Congressman Peter J. Visclosky announced today that Merrillville resident Melissa A. Borom completed a summer internship at his Merrillville district office.  Melissa is entering her second year at Valparaiso University Law School.  Borom will graduate from Valparaiso Law School with the Class of 2016.  Borom’s favorite quote during her internship was: “If you intend on being a part of anything, you must first commit.” “Working in Congressman Visclosky’s office has been an exuberant experience, and seeing the level of commitment that this office has shown is astonishing.  It is great to know that Congressman Visclosky’s core purpose is serving the residents of the First Congressional District,” said Borom.  “I appreciate Melissa’s work in my Merrillville office this summer,” Congressman Visclosky said.  “Melissa proved to be a valuable asset while working as a press intern, and I’m thankful that she had the willingness to serve in this capacity. Her dedication to helping others is commendable, and I hope that her experience in our office will serve her well in graduate school and beyond.” Congressman Visclosky offers internships in his district and Washington, D.C., offices throughout the year.  Intern applicants must be enrolled in high school or college, be eligible to receive school or service organization credit, and are encouraged to have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Visit https://visclosky.house.gov/serving-you/internships for more information. ###   Alexander Wisniewski of Munster completes Visclosky internship U.S.  Congressman Peter J. Visclosky announced today that Munster resident Alexander (Alex) Wisniewski completed a summer internship at his Merrillville district office.  Alex is entering his senior year at Munster High School.  Wisniewski is an active member of the Munster High School DECA, We the People, as well as the Speech and Debate Team.  He plans on pursuing a degree in business in college and eventually a law degree. “This internship has been more than a 9-5 job.  This internship has taught me numerous life lessons.  I am grateful for the opportunity to work in Congressman Visclosky’s office,” said Wisniewski. “I appreciate Alex’s commitment to public service through his participation in my office’s internship program,” said Congressman Visclosky. “Alex proved to be a valuable asset in our day-to-day operations, and  I wish him continued success in all of his future endeavors.” Congressman Visclosky offers internships in his district and Washington, D.C., offices throughout the year.  Intern applicants must be enrolled in high school or college, be eligible to receive school or service organization credit, and are encouraged to have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Visit https://visclosky.house.gov/serving-you/internships for more information. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/bringing-jobs-to-hoosiers,Bringing Jobs to Hoosiers,2014-08-04,2014,2014-08,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, Helping to create jobs and put people back to work remains my top priority in Congress.  That's why I'd like to invite you, your family, and friends to my fifth annual job fair on August 6th in Indianapolis.  Whether you're looking for a job, interested in a career change or need some feedback on your resume I hope you will join us. Click here to learn more about the job fair and to preview a list of some of this year’s employers Here are the details: What: Congressman Carson’s 5th Annual Job Fair When: Wednesday, August 6, 2014  9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Where: Ivy Tech Corporate College & Culinary Center 2820 N. Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46208   Please feel free to forward this to anyone you think may be interested in attending as well!  I hope to see you there!   Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://visclosky.house.gov/press-release/visclosky-announces-award-schererville-park-board,Visclosky Announces Award for Schererville Park Board,2014-07-31,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,"$200,000 to be for used for the development of Teibel Nature Park Merrillville, IN- Congressman Pete Visclosky announced that the Indiana Department of Natural Resources has been awarded a $200,000 grant through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) State and Local Assistance Program.  This grant will be allocated to the Schererville Park Board for the development of Teibel Nature Park. “The awarding of the LWCF grant will enhance the quality of life for all residents by providing the Schererville Park Board funding to begin the initial development of the Teibel Nature Preserve into a public park that promotes passive recreation through natural resource preservation and management,” said Superintendent of Parks John Novacich.  The grant will provide funding for the Schererville Park Board to help secure 40 acres of additional land, which will be used to develop a picnic area, playground, trail, and additional parking. Visclosky highlighted the importance of the grant to the region, saying, “Public parks are some of our most precious resources. They are tremendously important to the quality of life of the residents of Northwest Indiana and promote community development.  I congratulate the Schererville Park Board and Schererville Town Council for successfully securing this grant to aid in the development of Teibel Nature Preserve.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-announces-website-photo-contest,Congressman Carson Announces Website Photo Contest,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman André Carson is inviting residents and visitors to capture the beauty and uniqueness of Indianapolis by taking part in an online photo contest. Winners will have their submitted photo featured on Congressman Carson’s permanent website for the remainder of the year. HOW TO ENTER Entries must be sent to indyphoto@mail.house.gov by 6 p.m. on August 1.  An entry email must include the contestant’s name, email address, and where the photo was taken.  Entries should also include the date the photo was taken and a brief photo caption.  Higher resolution photos are preferred. After the deadline photos will be posted on Congressman Carson’s official Facebook page. The photo with the most Facebook ‘likes’, will be winner. GUIDELINES Any resident or visitor to the Seventh Congressional District of Indiana may submit photos. All photos must be original and taken in the Seventh Congressional District (for a map, please visit https://carson.house.gov/our-district). If the photo contains an image of a person, you must obtain that person’s permission to have the photo published. By entering this contest, you also agree that the photo may be published royalty free in any communication by Congressman Carson’s office.  Congressman Carson’s office reserves the right to reject entries that are offensive, in poor taste, inappropriate for public display or do not meet eligibility criteria. If you have any questions, please contact Congressman Carson’s office at 202-225-4011.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-announces-website-photo-contest,Congressman Carson Announces Website Photo Contest,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman André Carson is inviting residents and visitors to capture the beauty and uniqueness of Indianapolis by taking part in an online photo contest. Winners will have their submitted photo featured on Congressman Carson's permanent website for the remainder of the year. HOW TO ENTER Entries must be sent to indyphoto@mail.house.gov by 6 p.m. on August 1. An entry email must include the contestant's name, email address, and where the photo was taken. Entries should also include the date the photo was taken and a brief photo caption. Higher resolution photos are preferred. After the deadline photos will be posted on Congressman Carson's official Facebook page. The photo with the most Facebook ‘likes', will be winner. GUIDELINES Any resident or visitor to the Seventh Congressional District of Indiana may submit photos. All photos must be original and taken in the Seventh Congressional District (for a map, please visit /our-district). If the photo contains an image of a person, you must obtain that person's permission to have the photo published. By entering this contest, you also agree that the photo may be published royalty free in any communication by Congressman Carson's office. Congressman Carson's office reserves the right to reject entries that are offensive, in poor taste, inappropriate for public display or do not meet eligibility criteria. If you have any questions, please contact Congressman Carson's office at 202-225-4011.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:41Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-statement-on-the-crisis-in-israel-and-the-gaza-strip,Congressman Carson statement on the crisis in Israel and the Gaza Strip,2014-07-21,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Carson issued the following statement in response to the ongoing crisis in Israel and the Gaza Strip. “What started with the tragic death of three Israeli and one Palestinian teenager a few weeks ago has now led to hundreds of deaths.  Sadly, the continued failure of Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire agreement has been a significant setback that has resulted in further loss of life. “Since the start of this conflict, both sides have become increasingly entrenched. Escalating rocket fire and a ground offensive are putting a far greater number of lives at risk.  This is why it is so imperative that Hamas stop launching rockets and Israel withdraw from Gaza immediately. “For its part, the United States should do everything it can to end this conflict diplomatically.  We must make clear that indiscriminate targeting that puts innocent civilians in danger is unacceptable and must be avoided at all costs. As I wrote to the President previously, the welfare of innocent civilians must be addressed and promoted.   Both Israel and Hamas must be encouraged to show restraint, allow tensions to subside and come together to reach a ceasefire agreement.  This is the only way a lasting peace will be achieved and negotiators can return to negotiating a long overdue two-state solution. “Israelis and Palestinians desire to live in peace, without the tensions that dominate their politics and the devastation it so regularly causes.  This is not the time for blame or retribution.  It is time to set aside political considerations and find a way to reach peace for millions who truly want it.”     ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/looking-for-a-job,Looking for a Job?,2014-07-21,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend,  Far too many Hoosiers suffer the financial and emotional strains of unemployment or underemployment. Creating new jobs and protecting existing American jobs is my number one priority in Congress. I am doing everything I can to connect job seekers with companies that are currently hiring. That’s why I am hosting my annual Central Indiana Job Fair in cooperation with Ivy Tech Community College again this year. This event will take place on Wednesday, August 6th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ivy Tech’s Corporate College and Culinary Center (2820 N. Meridian Street). The job fair will provide attendees with an opportunity to speak with a diverse group of companies from various sectors that are looking to hire new employees here in Central Indiana. For more information about the job fair please click here. As always, please feel free to call or email my office if there is anything I can do for you.   Sincerely, André Inside Scoop Helping Cut Red Tape My office is here to help if you or your family needs assistance working with a federal agency.  Recently, we were able to help Scott and Amy of Indianapolis reclaim their educational credit after the IRS sent them a letter stating their educational credit from 2010 was denied.   The letter also indicated the couple’s 2013 return was being withheld in order to pay back the credit erroneously claimed.  Amy and Scott have both been in school since 2010 and believed they justly claimed the educational credit.  My office was able to work with IRS to get the proof needed to apply the educational credit.  The IRS has already begun the process of issuing a refund to Amy and Scott.   The couple will receive $3,700 in four to six weeks!   Voting: Our Privilege and Responsibility One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process. Below are important dates for Indiana voters: October 6, 2014 – Voter Registration Ends  November 4, 2014 – General Election Day",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-statement-crisis-israel-and-gaza-strip,Congressman Carson statement on the crisis in Israel and the Gaza Strip,2014-07-21,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Carson issued the following statement in response to the ongoing crisis in Israel and the Gaza Strip. ""What started with the tragic death of three Israeli and one Palestinian teenager a few weeks ago has now led to hundreds of deaths. Sadly, the continued failure of Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire agreement has been a significant setback that has resulted in further loss of life. ""Since the start of this conflict, both sides have become increasingly entrenched. Escalating rocket fire and a ground offensive are putting a far greater number of lives at risk. This is why it is so imperative that Hamas stop launching rockets and Israel withdraw from Gaza immediately. ""For its part, the United States should do everything it can to end this conflict diplomatically. We must make clear that indiscriminate targeting that puts innocent civilians in danger is unacceptable and must be avoided at all costs. As I wrote to the President previously, the welfare of innocent civilians must be addressed and promoted. Both Israel and Hamas must be encouraged to show restraint, allow tensions to subside and come together to reach a ceasefire agreement. This is the only way a lasting peace will be achieved and negotiators can return to negotiating a long overdue two-state solution. ""Israelis and Palestinians desire to live in peace, without the tensions that dominate their politics and the devastation it so regularly causes. This is not the time for blame or retribution. It is time to set aside political considerations and find a way to reach peace for millions who truly want it.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:41Z http://visclosky.house.gov/press-release/visclosky-announces-award-cedar-lake-volunteer-fire-department,Visclosky Announces Award for Cedar Lake Volunteer Fire Department,2014-07-17,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,"$ 58,247 to be used for Protective Equipment and Training Merrillville, IN- Congressman Pete Visclosky announced that the Cedar Lake Volunteer Fire Department has been award a $58,247 grant under the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.    “This much needed grant funding comes to us at a perfect time.  Our department desperately needs updated equipment including new turnout gear.  We are grateful to Congressman Visclosky for his efforts in helping our department secure this funding,” said Fire Chief Todd Wilkening.  “We depend on our first responders and public safety personnel to keep us safe, and in return we must provide these public servants with the best possible protective equipment available. I thank the Cedar Lake Volunteer Fire Department for their hard work and due diligence in securing this grant,” Congressman Visclosky said.    ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-to-holder-we-need-answers-on-government-monitoring,Congressman Carson to Holder: We Need Answers on Government Monitoring,2014-07-15,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Carson to Holder: We Need Answers on Government Monitoring WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) and Congressman Keith Ellison (MN-05) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, calling for specific details about the federal government’s monitoring of the communications of American citizens. Last week, a report by The Intercept exposed that the federal government has been monitoring Muslim Americans, including five prominent individuals highlighted in the article. “As one of two Muslims in Congress and a former Homeland Security official who worked in counterterrorism, I understand the importance of monitoring potential threats,” Carson said.   “However, I am deeply concerned that our government may have been spying on American citizens simply based on their religious affiliation.” The letter is asking the Department of Justice, Director of National Intelligence, National Security Agency and Federal Bureau of Investigation to provide a briefing about the nature of this surveillance program, the types of communications monitored, the number of Americans affected, the criteria used for their selection, and how religion or other First Amendment protected rights were factored into surveillance determinations.  In addition, it asks for information on any specific threats which may have been intercepted or countered using intelligence gathered through these methods and any similar programs that have yet to be disclosed. “I am committed to ensuring that the civil liberties of all Americans are protected and no one is profiled based on their race, religion, ethnicity, or political activity,” Carson said.  “The information we are requesting is critical to ensure we can properly oversee our intelligence community and ensure they are not violating the basic rights of the American public.” To read a copy of the letter sent to Secretary Holder, click here",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://visclosky.house.gov/press-release/visclosky-testifies-international-trade-commission-protecting-steel-jobs,Visclosky Testifies before the International Trade Commission on enforcing our trade laws,2014-07-15,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,"Testimony Congressman Peter J. Visclosky International Trade Commission Hearing on Certain Oil Country Tubular Goods from India, Korea, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, and Vietnam July 15, 2014             I would like to thank Chairman Broadbent, Vice Chairman Pinkert, and all of the members of the Commission for the opportunity to present testimony as part of today’s critical hearing on oil country tubular goods.  I think that there is no higher priority for our domestic steel industry today than the enforcement of our trade laws, so I thank you and your staff for your diligence and commitment to that end.  It does not get more serious for our steel industry than today’s case.  U.S. Steel has recently closed plants in Pennsylvania and Texas, and steelworker jobs across the country are threatened by the influx of cheap imports.  We must take a stand today and tell countries around the world that we do not allow steel to be dumped here. As you may be aware, this past month, Congressional Steel Caucus Chairman Murphy and I coordinated a letter to the Department of Commerce, and this letter expressed our concerns regarding their preliminary determination specific to Korea.  I would point out that 155 Members of Congress, over a third of the House of Representatives, signed this letter.  The letter reminded the Department of Commerce that imports of oil country tubular goods have doubled since 2008, and have increased by 61 percent thus far in 2014 compared to the previous year.  The letter also noted that 8,000 workers across the country make OCTG products, and that each of these jobs supports seven additional jobs in the supply chain. The Senate has also been vocal on this issue, with 57 Senators sending a similar letter to the Department of Commerce.  Additionally, I have received over 500 e-mails from constituents with the subject line reading “Save Our Steel Jobs.”  I think that the message is clear from steel companies, steelworkers, and members of the House and Senate: this case is critical to the future of the American steel industry, and we must take action to defend these workers from illegal trade.  During my testimony before you this past May in the case regarding welded stainless pressure pipe from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, I noted that I had been vocal before this Commission regarding the same product, and that was during a 2009 case involving China.  Unfortunately, the circumstances today are identical.  On December 1, 2009, I testified before this Commission regarding anti-dumping and countervailing duty orders on oil country tubular goods from China.  I am pleased that we were successful in that case and that it resulted in a significant decrease in Chinese imports.  Unfortunately, the countries involved in today’s case seized on that opportunity and began dumping their OCTG products in our country.  Our trade remedies are effective, but we are creating a dangerous trend where protections against one country are leading to an invitation for other countries to exploit our market.  We cannot allow this trend to continue.  All countries must know that all illegal trade will result in swift and just enforcement of our trade laws, and we must make that statement in today’s case. This past week, the Department of Commerce ruled in their final determination of this case that the there were positive anti-dumping margins for all of the countries involved, including up to 15.75 percent for Korea, 35.86 percent for Turkey, 111.47 percent for Vietnam, and 118.32 percent for Thailand.  The Department of Commerce also ruled in their final determination that countervailing duty margins were up to 19.11 percent for India and 15.89 percent for Turkey. Members of the Commission, I thank you again for the opportunity to be a part of today’s hearing.  I appreciate your thorough consideration of this case, and urge you to fully enforce our trade laws and issue an affirmative final determination.                                                                                                                                                                              ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-holder-we-need-answers-government-monitoring,Congressman Carson to Holder: We Need Answers on Government Monitoring,2014-07-15,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) and Congressman Keith Ellison (MN-05) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, calling for specific details about the federal government's monitoring of the communications of American citizens. Last week, a report by The Intercept exposed that the federal government has been monitoring Muslim Americans, including five prominent individuals highlighted in the article. ""As one of two Muslims in Congress and a former Homeland Security official who worked in counterterrorism, I understand the importance of monitoring potential threats,"" Carson said. ""However, I am deeply concerned that our government may have been spying on American citizens simply based on their religious affiliation."" The letter is asking the Department of Justice, Director of National Intelligence, National Security Agency and Federal Bureau of Investigation to provide a briefing about the nature of this surveillance program, the types of communications monitored, the number of Americans affected, the criteria used for their selection, and how religion or other First Amendment protected rights were factored into surveillance determinations. In addition, it asks for information on any specific threats which may have been intercepted or countered using intelligence gathered through these methods and any similar programs that have yet to be disclosed. ""I am committed to ensuring that the civil liberties of all Americans are protected and no one is profiled based on their race, religion, ethnicity, or political activity,"" Carson said. ""The information we are requesting is critical to ensure we can properly oversee our intelligence community and ensure they are not violating the basic rights of the American public.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:41Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/letter-secretary-holder-regarding-americas-spy-program,Letter to Secretary Holder Regarding America's Spy Program,2014-07-15,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Letter to Secretary Holder Regarding America's Spy Program July 15, 2014 Press Release Image Image",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:41Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-andr-carson-on-us-attorney-joe-hogsett-s-resignation,Congressman Andr Carson on U.S. Attorney Joe Hogsetts resignation announcement today,2014-07-14,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"INDIANAPOLIS -- Congressman André Carson (IN-07) released the following statement in response to the announcement today that U.S. Attorney Joe Hogsett will resign at the end of this month: “Joe Hogsett began his service in the U.S. Attorney’s Office with a vision to better protect Hoosier families.  With his help, we have made progress combating violent crime in our neighborhoods, protecting Hoosier children from new and growing threats online and sending the unrelenting message that public corruption will not be tolerated.  As a former law enforcement officer, I commend Joe for putting the bad guys behind bars and making it clear that our public servants serve the public, not themselves. His leadership has been outstanding, and his commitment to public safety in our city and state is unmatched. I look forward to seeing what his future holds.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andre-carson-us-attorney-joe-hogsetts-resignation-announcement,Congressman André Carson on U.S. Attorney Joe Hogsett’s resignation announcement today,2014-07-14,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS -- Congressman André Carson (IN-07) released the following statement in response to the announcement today that U.S. Attorney Joe Hogsett will resign at the end of this month: ""Joe Hogsett began his service in the U.S. Attorney's Office with a vision to better protect Hoosier families. With his help, we have made progress combating violent crime in our neighborhoods, protecting Hoosier children from new and growing threats online and sending the unrelenting message that public corruption will not be tolerated. As a former law enforcement officer, I commend Joe for putting the bad guys behind bars and making it clear that our public servants serve the public, not themselves. His leadership has been outstanding, and his commitment to public safety in our city and state is unmatched. I look forward to seeing what his future holds.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:41Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-andr-carson-honors-fallen-officer-in-the-us-house-of,Congressman Andr Carson Honors Fallen Officer in the U.S. House of Representatives,2014-07-11,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman André Carson Honors Fallen Officer in the U.S. House of Representatives  WASHINGTON D.C. – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) made a statement for the Congressional Record honoring the life of fallen Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officer Perry Renn. The statement will now be held in the permanent Congressional Record in Washington, D.C.  A copy of the statement also was delivered to Renn’s family. “Renn’s character and selfless commitment to his fellow citizens is evidenced by his years of service to our community,” Carson said. “By inserting a statement into the Congressional Record, his memory will be marked not only in Indianapolis’ history but our nation’s history for all time.” On Friday, Congressman Carson also delivered a speech on the House Floor honoring Renn and calling for an end to the violence in Indianapolis. A link to the speech can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=802205813131864&set=vb.123884330964019&type=2&theater A copy of the Congressional Record can be found here: https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CREC-2014-07-10/pdf/CREC-2014-07-10-pt1-PgE1140.pdf ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andre-carson-honors-fallen-officer-us-house-representatives,Congressman André Carson Honors Fallen Officer in the U.S. House of Representatives,2014-07-11,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) made a statement for the Congressional Record honoring the life of fallen Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officer Perry Renn. The statement will now be held in the permanent Congressional Record in Washington, D.C. A copy of the statement also was delivered to Renn's family. ""Renn's character and selfless commitment to his fellow citizens is evidenced by his years of service to our community,"" Carson said. ""By inserting a statement into the Congressional Record, his memory will be marked not only in Indianapolis' history but our nation's history for all time."" On Friday, Congressman Carson also delivered a speech on the House Floor honoring Renn and calling for an end to the violence in Indianapolis. A link to the speech can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=802205813131864&set=vb.123884330964019&type=2&theater",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:41Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-andr-carson-on-alleged-nsa-spying-on-muslim,Statement from Congressman Andr Carson on alleged NSA spying on Muslim-Americans,2014-07-10,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Statement from Congressman André Carson on alleged NSA spying on Muslim-Americans July 9, 2014   Washington D.C. - Congressman André Carson issued the following statement today regarding reports that the United States monitored several prominent Muslim Americans:  “As one of two Muslims in Congress and a former Homeland Security official who worked in counter terrorism, I understand the importance of monitoring potential threats.  However, I am deeply concerned that our government may have been spying on American citizens simply based on their religious affiliation. “Protecting our country from those who would want to do harm is essential, but we must do so in a way that safeguards the civil liberties on which our country was founded. While the Department of Justice and intelligence community have argued that this surveillance was in keeping with current law, I am concerned about what it means for our constitutional protections.  ""No matter what their background, Americans should know that their First Amendment freedoms of religion and speech will not draw suspicion of their government. The circumstances surrounding these five cases remain classified, but based on today’s reports, I am concerned that these surveillance actions, and the laws that authorized them, may fail to meet the standards set by our Constitution. “I have been in contact with the Department of Justice and will be pursuing additional clarification about these domestic surveillance programs. I consider it among my top priorities to ensure that civil liberties are protected and all Americans know they will not be profiled based on their race, religion, ethnicity or political activity.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-andre-carson-alleged-nsa-spying-muslim-americans,Statement from Congressman André Carson on alleged NSA spying on Muslim-Americans,2014-07-10,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"July 9, 2014 Washington D.C. - Congressman André Carson issued the following statement today regarding reports that the United States monitored several prominent Muslim Americans: ""As one of two Muslims in Congress and a former Homeland Security official who worked in counter terrorism, I understand the importance of monitoring potential threats. However, I am deeply concerned that our government may have been spying on American citizens simply based on their religious affiliation. ""Protecting our country from those who would want to do harm is essential, but we must do so in a way that safeguards the civil liberties on which our country was founded. While the Department of Justice and intelligence community have argued that this surveillance was in keeping with current law, I am concerned about what it means for our constitutional protections. ""No matter what their background, Americans should know that their First Amendment freedoms of religion and speech will not draw suspicion of their government. The circumstances surrounding these five cases remain classified, but based on today's reports, I am concerned that these surveillance actions, and the laws that authorized them, may fail to meet the standards set by our Constitution. ""I have been in contact with the Department of Justice and will be pursuing additional clarification about these domestic surveillance programs. I consider it among my top priorities to ensure that civil liberties are protected and all Americans know they will not be profiled based on their race, religion, ethnicity or political activity.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:41Z http://visclosky.house.gov/press-release/visclosky-announces-award-east-chicago-fire-department,Visclosky Announces Award for East Chicago Fire Department,2014-07-09,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,"Merrillville, IN- Congressman Pete Visclosky announced that the East Chicago Fire Department has been award a $126,317 grant under the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.  “When it comes to public safety, the most frequently asked question is “Do we have back-up?” Time and time again when it comes to FEMA and Congressman Pete Visclosky, I can once again say, “Yes, we have back-up,” said East Chicago Mayor Anthony Copeland. “Firefighters are public servants who put their lives at risk for others and serve as first responders in times of need. I thank the East Chicago Fire Department and the public officials in East Chicago for their work in securing this grant and ensuring that our firefighters have the necessary equipment to safely respond to emergencies,” Congressman Visclosky said.    ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-andr-carson-on-the-death-of-impd-officer,Congressman Andr Carson on the death of IMPD officer Perry Renn,2014-07-06,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"INDIANAPOLIS – Congressman André Carson released the following statement this morning in response to the news that IMPD veteran patrol officer Perry Renn was killed last night in a shootout on the city’s Eastside. “My heart goes out to the family and friends of Officer Renn. Our city lost a brave law enforcement officer last night, and we grieve with those he leaves behind. “There are no words to describe the courage of an officer who walks into a situation not knowing what he or she will face, not knowing whether he or she will walk away unharmed. Our men and women in uniform place themselves in danger each day so that we can be safe. We owe them an immeasurable debt for their valor. “This seemingly endless violence in our streets has claimed far too many lives, including public safety heroes like Officer Renn, who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our city. “It’s past time for Indianapolis to get involved, to take back our streets and to seek common sense solutions that will keep dangerous criminals where they belong so that law-abiding residents can feel safe in our city. Officer Renn must not have died in vain. We have to solve this problem, and we have to work together to do it.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andre-carson-death-impd-officer-perry-renn,Congressman André Carson on the death of IMPD officer Perry Renn,2014-07-06,2014,2014-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS – Congressman André Carson released the following statement this morning in response to the news that IMPD veteran patrol officer Perry Renn was killed last night in a shootout on the city's Eastside. ""My heart goes out to the family and friends of Officer Renn. Our city lost a brave law enforcement officer last night, and we grieve with those he leaves behind. ""There are no words to describe the courage of an officer who walks into a situation not knowing what he or she will face, not knowing whether he or she will walk away unharmed. Our men and women in uniform place themselves in danger each day so that we can be safe. We owe them an immeasurable debt for their valor. ""This seemingly endless violence in our streets has claimed far too many lives, including public safety heroes like Officer Renn, who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our city. ""It's past time for Indianapolis to get involved, to take back our streets and to seek common sense solutions that will keep dangerous criminals where they belong so that law-abiding residents can feel safe in our city. Officer Renn must not have died in vain. We have to solve this problem, and we have to work together to do it.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:41Z http://visclosky.house.gov/press-release/visclosky-applauds-itc-decision,Visclosky applauds ITC decision,2014-06-24,2014,2014-06,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,"Merrillville, IN- Today, the United States International Trade Commission (ITC) made affirmative determinations in its final phase antidumping duty investigations concerning welded stainless pressure pipe from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.  Congressman Visclosky testified before the ITC in defense of the American steel industry during the ITC’s hearing on this case on May 22, 2014.  As a result of these determinations, the U.S. Department of Commerce will issue antidumping duty orders on these imports.  “I am pleased that the ITC sent the message today that we will not tolerate illegal trade.  My commitment to our steelworkers and the Northwest Indiana economy is unwavering, and I will not stop working to prevent illegal steel from being dumped on our shores,” said Congressman Pete Visclosky.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://visclosky.house.gov/opening-statement-honorable-peter-visclosky-ranking-member-defense-subcommittee-house-committee-0,"OPENING STATEMENT The Honorable Peter Visclosky Ranking Member, Defense Subcommittee House Committee on Appropriations Fiscal Year 2015, Floor Deliberation June 18, 2014",2014-06-18,2014,2014-06,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,"OPENING STATEMENT The Honorable Peter Visclosky Ranking Member, Defense Subcommittee House Committee on Appropriations Fiscal Year 2015, Floor Deliberation June 18, 2014  Mr. Chairman, I yield myself as much time as I may consume.  I would like to begin by expressing my appreciation to Chairman Frelinghuysen and congratulate him on the collegial and transparent manner in which he crafted H.R. 4870, the Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 Defense Appropriations Act.  I also want to express my sincere appreciation for the efforts of Chairman Hal Rogers, Ranking Member Nita Lowey, and all the members of the Defense Subcommittee.  Also, this bill could not have been written without the dedication, long hours, discerning and thoughtful input of our committee staff and personal staffs.  I want to thank Tom McLemore, Sherry Young, Tim Prince, Jennifer Miller, Walter Hearne, Paul Terry, BG Wright, Brooke Boyer, Adrienne Ramsay, Megan Rosenbusch, Maureen Holohan, Colin Lee, Paul Juola, Rebecca Leggieri, Steve Wilson, Joe DeVooght, and Jake Whiteside.   I would like to begin by saying a few words about the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) title.  The Committee has been placed in a very difficult position of having to provide a $79 billion place holder.  Recent decisions on the post-2014 troop levels in Afghanistan clear up the major policy issue that held back a detailed budget request.  Unfortunately, the clarity gained was quickly muddled by the proposed $5 billion Counterterrorism Partnerships Fund and the $1 billion European Reassurance Initiative.  At a time when many in Congress are rightfully looking to limit what is an eligible expense in OCO and shift activities to the base budget, these new proposals further complicate the issue.  Clarity must be brought to the opaque nature of OCO and I look forward to the debate on this during the consideration of amendments.            I support the bill we are marking up today and believe it provides for our national security and the protection of U.S. interests at home and abroad.  Put simply, the bill provides stability for our military personnel, maintains readiness, and preserves the industrial base.    I am pleased by the Subcommittee’s continued efforts on sexual assault prevention and response.  Specifically, the bill fully funds the budget request for the Special Victims’ Counsel, continuing last year’s Committee initiative.   The bill increases funding relative to the President’s budget request for traumatic brain injury and psychological health research, suicide prevention outreach programs, and several other invaluable medical programs.  Further, the bill and report carry strong language aimed at increasing cooperation between the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs in their ongoing efforts to develop interoperable electronic health records.   Specific to readiness, the bill includes an increase of $1 billion to fill gaps in key programs to prepare our troops, including $135 million for the Army Reserve and Army National Guard.  The bill makes investments in programs that are vital to the rebuilding and resetting of the force after thirteen years of conflict.  In particular, it increases funding by $720 million for facility sustainment and modernization, and provides each Military Service with additional funding for depot maintenance.   I especially appreciate the Chairman’s focus on encouraging DOD to meet the FY 2017 deadline for achieving fully auditable financial statements.  The measure before us provides $8 million above the request for the Comptroller’s office to improve business and financial systems throughout the Department.  Continuing problems in DoD’s strategic forces are also addressed in H.R. 4870 and funding is provided to address issues directly impacting intercontinental ballistic missile crews.  It is disappointing that the Air Force included improvements in this area in its unfunded priorities list and not in its base budget request.   With regards to the industrial base, I was dismayed that in its FY 2015 Budget Request the Administration proposed the elimination of several long-standing general provisions ensuring that contracts follow Buy America requirements and support domestic manufacturing.  I am pleased to note that the Committee chose to reject the Administration’s inexplicable proposal to jettison these Buy America provisions, and that they can be found in H.R. 4870.  The bill also contains several other provisions and initiatives aimed at securing our industrial base, including $220 million to establish a program for the domestic development of a next-generation liquid-fueled rocket engine.  Hopefully, this program will swiftly fill a very troubling void in the U.S. space launch industry.      One other area of the bill I would like to highlight is the funding increase for the Humanitarian Mine Action program.  Albeit a small program, I believe its mission is of immense value.  All too often, innocent civilians are the victims of explosive remnants of war.  It is only right to share our military’s expertise with host nations on the detection, clearance, disposal, and demilitarization of explosive ordnance.  I thank the Chairman for his special efforts in this area….   However, there are certain aspects of the bill that give me pause.  Fundamentally, these concerns have little to do with the detailed work of the Subcommittee, which I believe did its very best under the constraints in which it operated.  Rather, the concerns stem from Congress’ continued failure to confront our long-term fiscal challenges.   In its FY 2015 Budget Request, the Department of Defense proposed some significant initiatives, including military pay adjustments, restructuring TRICARE, and retirement of several weapons systems such as the A-10 and Kiowa Warrior, in order to stay under the FY 2015 budget cap, provide for future flexibility, and meet the national security strategy.  Having said this, one could easily point out that the Administration then undercut its own efforts by planning for higher spending in Fiscal Years 2016 through 2019, and by submitting the disingenuously named Opportunity, Growth, and Security Initiative, and subsequently submitting unfunded priority lists.  Regardless, a number of proposals the Department put forth in FY 2015 do possess merit.   With a few exceptions, these proposals have gained no traction within Congress.  Most were excluded or had language prohibiting or postponing their start in the recently passed National Defense Authorization Act.  I do not suggest that the Administration is uniformly correct, nor do I dismiss the resultant impacts of many of these initiatives, but the alternative of staying the course and hoping for some fiscal relief in FY 2016 is wishful thinking.  The sooner Congress reaches the consensus required to make the difficult decisions that are essential to deal with the reality of finite resources, the better we can provide for our national defense. In closing, I would like to reiterate my appreciation for Chairman Frelinghuysen’s cooperation, assistance, and diligence.  He and his staff have ensured the Defense Subcommittee continues its tradition of operating collaboratively and effectively.  I am pleased that we are considering this bill in a timely manner and look forward to the debate.   Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-introduces-emerging-business-encouragement-act,Congressman Carson introduces Emerging Business Encouragement Act,2014-06-17,2014,2014-06,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman André Carson introduced the Emerging Business Encouragement (EBE) Act, which will help emerging businesses compete for federal contracts and obtain access to federally backed loans as they get off the ground. Emerging businesses face obstacles that are distinctly different from more well established small businesses.  Under the EBE Act, the Small Business Administration (SBA) would create a new designation for an Emerging Business Enterprises (EBE) based on the company’s age, size and total compensation. To be certified as an EBE, a company must be 10 percent or less the size of the current SBA designation for a small business, which is typically capped at 500 employees. The company must be less than five years old at the time of certification with annual compensation of individuals in management positions not exceeding 200 percent of the annual mean wage for “Management Occupations” defined by the U.S. Department of Labor.  These standards will ensure that those businesses benefiting from EBE programs are truly emerging. Emerging businesses often have trouble securing federal contracts.  The EBE Act seeks to expand opportunities by requiring federal agencies to set contracting goals for EBEs equal to or not less than 5 percent of contracts and subcontracts.  Additionally, many emerging businesses have difficulty accessing the capital they need to develop products and hire workers.  Under the EBE Act, the percentage of federal loan guaranty authority for SBA loans would increase from 50 percent for all small businesses to 65 percent for EBEs, providing a significant incentive for lenders to lend to these businesses. “I believe we must support all job creators as our economy continues to recover, but there are significant differences between a startup with only a few employees and an established business with a few hundred employees and decades of experience,” Carson said.  “This legislation will help these emerging businesses overcome the unique challenges they face in their first few years of operation, and it will ensure these businesses are able to compete for federal contracts and gain access to critical small business loans.” This legislation will: Create a new designation for Emerging Business Enterprises, similar to those already in place for women and minority owned businesses.  Establish a 5 percent federal contracting goal for Emerging Business Enterprises.  Amend the SBA Express program under the Small Business Act to provide incentives for financial institutions to lend to Emerging Business Enterprises. Have a negligible impact on direct spending, as determined by the Congressional Budget Office. Click here for a fact sheet with additional details about the Emerging Business Encouragement Act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-introduces-emerging-business-encouragement-act,Congressman Carson introduces Emerging Business Encouragement Act,2014-06-17,2014,2014-06,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman André Carson introduced the Emerging Business Encouragement (EBE) Act, which will help emerging businesses compete for federal contracts and obtain access to federally backed loans as they get off the ground. Emerging businesses face obstacles that are distinctly different from more well established small businesses. Under the EBE Act, the Small Business Administration (SBA) would create a new designation for an Emerging Business Enterprises (EBE) based on the company's age, size and total compensation. To be certified as an EBE, a company must be 10 percent or less the size of the current SBA designation for a small business, which is typically capped at 500 employees. The company must be less than five years old at the time of certification with annual compensation of individuals in management positions not exceeding 200 percent of the annual mean wage for ""Management Occupations"" defined by the U.S. Department of Labor. These standards will ensure that those businesses benefiting from EBE programs are truly emerging. Emerging businesses often have trouble securing federal contracts. The EBE Act seeks to expand opportunities by requiring federal agencies to set contracting goals for EBEs equal to or not less than 5 percent of contracts and subcontracts. Additionally, many emerging businesses have difficulty accessing the capital they need to develop products and hire workers. Under the EBE Act, the percentage of federal loan guaranty authority for SBA loans would increase from 50 percent for all small businesses to 65 percent for EBEs, providing a significant incentive for lenders to lend to these businesses. ""I believe we must support all job creators as our economy continues to recover, but there are significant differences between a startup with only a few employees and an established business with a few hundred employees and decades of experience,"" Carson said. ""This legislation will help these emerging businesses overcome the unique challenges they face in their first few years of operation, and it will ensure these businesses are able to compete for federal contracts and gain access to critical small business loans."" This legislation will: Create a new designation for Emerging Business Enterprises, similar to those already in place for women and minority owned businesses. Establish a 5 percent federal contracting goal for Emerging Business Enterprises. Amend the SBA Express program under the Small Business Act to provide incentives for financial institutions to lend to Emerging Business Enterprises. Have a negligible impact on direct spending, as determined by the Congressional Budget Office.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:17Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/hearing-from-you,Hearing from you,2014-06-16,2014,2014-06,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"You recently received an email from me asking you to take part in a shortconstituent survey about hot topics in our community right now. As your U.S. Representative, I serve as your voice in Washington and your connection to the federal government. Constituent service is my top priority, and part of my commitment to you is making sure I know what’s most important to you. If you haven’t already, I hope you’ll take a few minutes to take the surveyto let us know what’s on your mind and what issues you most want me to focus on as public servant. Your responses will remain confidential and used only to improve the services our office provides and make sure I’m focused on the issues that matter most to you. Thank you for your feedback and your help making our city a great place to live! Sincerely, André Inside Scoop Addressing Violence in Indianapolis It was recently my privilege to be the keynote speaker at the Ten Points Coalition Community Prayer Breakfast. The event addressed the issue of violence in our community and what we’re all doing to make sure our streets are safe. This is an ongoing conversation happening among city, faith and community leaders; law enforcement officers and organizations; non-profit groups and citizens to determine possible solutions to this growing problem. In Congress, I have advocated for increased funding for emergency preparedness and the COPS grant program, which places more officers in communities across America. I believe we must be committed to proper mental health screenings and treatment for those with mental illness to ensure that guns do not fall into the hands of those who would commit these acts of violence. But this local epidemic goes far beyond police staffing and mental health treatment. It depends on input and commitment from all of us, and I want you to know you can always share your ideas and thoughts with me as we work together to address this issue. Kids Eat Free: Summer Servings is Officially Underway I took part in the kickoff of Summer Servings, a citywide effort available as part of the USDA Summer Food Service Program. The program provides nutritious meals and snacks to children during the summer months. Meals are provided at no cost to all children ages 18 and younger. You can find more information about the program, including an interactive map with meal location sites, by visiting www.summerservings.org. Stay Tuned: Small Business Announcement I want you to be the first to know that I’ll be unveiling new legislation soon to help startup businesses. While I believe we must support all job creators, startup businesses must overcome unique challenges in their first few years. With my bill, I hope to help them survive and thrive through this difficult time. Stay tuned for an announcement soon! Voting: Our Privilege and Responsibility One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process. The 2014 primary election took place last week, and voter registration for the November election begins soon. Below are important dates for Indiana voters: October 6, 2014 – Voter Registration Ends  November 4, 2014 – General Election Day",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//newsroom/past-e-newsletters/addressing-a-critical-need,Addressing a critical need,2014-06-02,2014,2014-06,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, it will be an honor for me to take part in the kickoff of the 2014 Summer Servings program. Summer Servings, which is available in Marion County as part of the USDA Summer Food Service Program, provides nutritious meals and snacks to children during the summer months. Meals are provided at no cost to all children ages 18 and younger. The program is designed to fill the nutrition gap during the summer to ensure that children get the meals they need when school is not in session. You may not realize it, but hunger is an enormous and often silent issue facing our community. More than one million Hoosiers are food insecure, and one-third of those are children. That incredible need is why I’m asking for your help spreading the word that Summer Servings meals are available starting this week. Please share this information with your family and friends, as well as in your neighborhood. You can find more information about the program, including an interactive map with meal location sites, by visiting www.summerservings.org. Sincerely, André Inside Scoop Update on VA Accountability On Friday, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki offered his resignation to President Obama following the public disclosure of mismanagement at VA medical facilities and ongoing concerns about the services provided to our veterans. I want to make sure you saw my statement in response to the announcement: “I want to commend Secretary Shinseki for his lifelong service to our nation, our service members and our veterans. But despite his honorable service, I believe his resignation is appropriate. We need to clear the air and move toward long-term solutions to the systemic problems within the VA that have resulted in substandard service for the men and women who have served our country in uniform. “I hope this change in leadership will bring about a new era for the VA. I look forward to working with officials there and my colleagues in Congress to drastically improve the delivery of health care and benefits for veterans and to make sure that these problems never occur again.” A Visit to Eli Lilly’s Insulin Manufacturing Facility I strongly support the life sciences and investment in the research it takes to keep our state and nation healthy. It was a privilege this week to take a hard hat tour of Eli Lilly’s insulin manufacturing facility, which is under construction to expand the company’s global production of the drug used to treat diabetes, a disease with a growing international footprint. Here’s a photo from my tour of the facility: Contribute to Our New Website! We’re in the process of giving our website a more modern look, and we want you to help us populate it with photos of our great city. We’ll feature submitted constituent photos on the front page of our new site once it launches. Got a picture you want to share? Send it tojennifer.wagner@mail.house.gov with your name and the location where you took the photo, and you could see your work on our website! (Please make sure your submissions are less than 1MB in size.) Voting: Our Privilege and Responsibility One of the greatest privileges of being an American citizen is the opportunity to voice your opinion through the electoral process. The 2014 primary election took place last week, and voter registration for the November election begins soon. Below are important dates for Indiana voters: October 6, 2014 – Voter Registration Ends  November 4, 2014 – General Election Day",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-on-the-resignation-of-department-of-veterans-affairs,Congressman Carson on the resignation of Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki,2014-05-30,2014,2014-05,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Congressman André Carson issued this statement following the announcement that President Obama has accepted the resignation of Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki: “I want to commend Secretary Shinseki for his lifelong service to our nation, our service members and our veterans. But despite his honorable service, I believe his resignation is appropriate.  We need to clear the air and move toward long-term solutions to the systemic problems within the VA that have resulted in substandard service for the men and women who have served our country in uniform. “I hope this change in leadership will bring about a new era for the VA.  I look forward to working with officials there and my colleagues in Congress to drastically improve the delivery of health care and benefits for veterans and to make sure that these problems never occur again.” Click here to read the letter Congressman Carson submitted to the VA earlier this week.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-resignation-department-veterans-affairs-secretary-eric,Congressman Carson on the resignation of Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki,2014-05-30,2014,2014-05,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman André Carson issued this statement following the announcement that President Obama has accepted the resignation of Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki: ""I want to commend Secretary Shinseki for his lifelong service to our nation, our service members and our veterans. But despite his honorable service, I believe his resignation is appropriate. We need to clear the air and move toward long-term solutions to the systemic problems within the VA that have resulted in substandard service for the men and women who have served our country in uniform. ""I hope this change in leadership will bring about a new era for the VA. I look forward to working with officials there and my colleagues in Congress to drastically improve the delivery of health care and benefits for veterans and to make sure that these problems never occur again.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:41:51Z http://carson.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-carson-on-the-passing-of-dr-maya-angelou,Congressman Carson on the passing of Dr. Maya Angelou,2014-05-28,2014,2014-05,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Congressman André Carson issued the following statement on the passing of Presidential Medal of Freedom winner, civil rights advocate, renowned poet, author and Professor Dr. Maya Angelou: “Today, America lost one of its most original, effective and passionate voices. Dr. Maya Angelou not only spoke to us, but she spoke of us, painting a picture of our nation with words. She showed us that we can always be more than the labels and limitations others place on us. She taught that we have a duty to stand up for those among us who are treated as less. “Dr. Angelou will always be a voice for the voiceless and a champion for equality and those facing great adversity. “We mourn her passing, but we celebrate her life, her work, her contributions to our nation and world. I believe she would want us to find the light in this time of sadness, and we should honor her in that way.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-passing-dr-maya-angelou,Congressman Carson on the passing of Dr. Maya Angelou,2014-05-28,2014,2014-05,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman André Carson issued the following statement on the passing of Presidential Medal of Freedom winner, civil rights advocate, renowned poet, author and Professor Dr. Maya Angelou: ""Today, America lost one of its most original, effective and passionate voices. Dr. Maya Angelou not only spoke to us, but she spoke of us, painting a picture of our nation with words. She showed us that we can always be more than the labels and limitations others place on us. She taught that we have a duty to stand up for those among us who are treated as less. ""Dr. Angelou will always be a voice for the voiceless and a champion for equality and those facing great adversity. ""We mourn her passing, but we celebrate her life, her work, her contributions to our nation and world. I believe she would want us to find the light in this time of sadness, and we should honor her in that way."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:41:51Z