url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-announces-more-19m-flood-recovery-grants-ascension-parish-school-board,Rep. Richmond Announces More Than $19M in Flood Recovery Grants for the Ascension Parish School Board,2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Cedric Richmond (LA-02) announced the availability of more than $19 million in federal funding for the Ascension Parish School Board. The resources will reimburse schools throughout Ascension Parish that require temporary facilities due to damages from the August flooding: “We are continuing to make strides toward rebuilding our community after this disaster,” said Rep. Richmond.  “This most recent grant from FEMA will help schools in Ascension Parish continue to educate students following the extraordinary circumstances created by flood damage. There is still a long road ahead to full recovery, but I will continue to ensure that we receive the necessary support from the federal government every step of the way. ” FEMA grants announced today include: ASCENSION PARISH SCHOOL BOARD The award provides $3,549,404.70 in federal funding to provide temporary facilities to Galvez Middle School. The award is required as a result of damages withstood to the school during severe storms and flooding.  ASCENSION PARISH SCHOOL BOARD The award provides $4,604,180.40 in federal funding to provide temporary facilities to Galvez Primary School. The award is required as a result of damages withstood to the school during severe storms and flooding.    ASCENSION PARISH SCHOOL BOARD The award provides $4,696,074.00 in federal funding to provide temporary facilities to St. Amant High School. The award is required as a result of damages withstood to the school during severe storms and flooding.      ASCENSION PARISH SCHOOL BOARD The award provides $6,365,844.90 in federal funding to provide temporary facilities to Lake Elementary School. The award is required as a result of damages withstood to the school during severe storms and flooding.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-announces-more-68m-grants-flood-recovery-baton-rouge-and-baker-school,Rep. Richmond Announces More than $6.8M in Grants for Flood Recovery for Baton Rouge and the Baker School System,2016-12-05,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Cedric Richmond (LA-02) announced the availability of millions in federal funding for the Baker School System and the City of Baton Rouge. The Baker School System will receive $3.9 million for cleaning, damage removal and sanitization of school buildings impacted by the flooding and Baton Rouge will receive $2.9 million for performing emergency protective measures as a result of severe storms and flooding: “Southeastern Louisiana has suffered through some of the worst flooding in our nation’s history,” said Rep. Richmond.  “As a result, many families, school districts, and businesses are still struggling to get back on their feet. These important resources from FEMA are evidence that we are not alone in that struggle. I will continue to work with our federal partners to ensure the people of Baton Rouge and Baker receive the support they need and deserve to recover from this historic flooding. ” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-announces-more-13m-fema-funding-greater-baton-rouge-food-bank,Rep. Richmond Announces More than $1.3M in FEMA Funding for the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank,2016-11-30,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement announcing more than $1.3 million in FEMA grant funding to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank (GBRFB), for emergency protective measures undertaken during the historic August flooding: “The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank played a critical role during a trying time for the Baton Rouge community,"" said Rep. Richmond.  “We are at our strongest when we help those in need. I commend the GBRFB for bridging the gap for so many during their darkest hour. These resources will help the GBRFB recover and continue their vital mission of serving the people of Baton Rouge and surrounding parishes."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-elected-chair-congressional-black-caucus-115th-congress,Rep. Richmond Elected Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus for the 115th Congress,2016-11-30,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) elected Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) to lead them over the next two years as chair. When the next Congress convenes in January Rep. Richmond will lead the largest CBC in history, as victories in the last election have grown the caucus to 49 members.  “I’m honored and humbled by the confidence my colleagues have placed in me to serve as the chair of this revered Caucus, the conscience and intellect of the Congress,” said Rep. Richmond.  “As we move into a new Congress and the onset of a new Administration, our Caucus will remain committed to the values that have made the CBC among the most influential institutions in the nation.” “I’m grateful to outgoing Chairman G.K. Butterfield for his leadership and dedication over the past two years.  We have all benefited from his steadfast commitment to our community and our cause.”  “As we face the challenges before us ─ from economic justice, to voting rights, policing, and criminal justice reform ─ we will approach each of them with vigilance. We will strive to harness the energy of our constituencies to enact policies that will have the greatest positive impact.” “I look forward to working with our membership, as we embark on an ambitious agenda. I stand on the shoulders of a choir of brave African American women and men whose struggles made way for our progress. I will work every day to make them proud.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-mourns-passing-edgar-dooky-chase-jr,Rep. Richmond Mourns the Passing of Edgar Dooky Chase Jr.,2016-11-24,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC – Rep. Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after the passing of civil rights icon and restaurateur Edgar ‘Dooky’ Chase Jr.: “Through activism and leadership Edgar ‘Dooky’ Chase Jr. and his wife Leah Chase helped pave the way for black leadership in New Orleans and throughout the country,” said Rep. Richmond. “As their business grew into one of the most popular restaurants in the city it also served as the only place where people of color could meet and organize during the civil rights movement.” “Without their bravery and generosity many of the great activists who brought about change would have never had the opportunity to lay the groundwork for the burgeoning movement. Mr. Chase will forever be remembered for the commitment and joy he brought to our community both through food and music, but his work towards equality will have the most lasting impact.” “His legacy will live on through the iconic restaurant that bears his name and the gains African Americans have made due to his sacrifice. My prayers and deepest condolences are with Ms. Chase and their entire family as they go through this most difficult time.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-joined-us-house-committee-financial-services-democrats-call-field,Rep. Richmond Joined U.S. House Committee on Financial Services Democrats To Call for Field Hearing on the National Flood Insurance Program,2016-08-26,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02), Rep. Maxine Waters, and Rep. Emanuel Cleaver called on Republican leadership of the Financial Services Committee to hold a field hearing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to examine the government’s response to the recent flooding in that area, and to better inform the Committee as it prepares to consider the reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is set to expire on September 30, 2017. “People living outside of flood hazard areas make up the majority of the victims of this flooding and yet, because they did not have and were not required to purchase flood insurance, they will have to rebuild their homes and lives without the support that federal policy was designed to provide,” said Richmond. “With the large gap between what the flood risk maps showed and what actually happened when the rain fell, it is crucial Congress see first-hand the damage that has been done. ""   The letter to Chairman Hansarling can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-requests-federal-support-louisiana-responds-severe-flooding,Rep. Richmond Requests Federal Support as Louisiana Responds To Severe Flooding,2016-08-13,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – In a letter sent to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate, Congressmen Cedric Richmond (LA-02) pushed for continued cooperation between federal and state officials in response to the devastating flooding occurring in Louisiana.  Specifically, Congressman Richmond asked Administrator Fugate to rapidly process any forthcoming request for a Major Disaster Declaration, and any subsequent requests for Public or Individual Assistance.  Additionally, the Congressman invited Administrator Fugate to witness the devastation first hand: “I have no doubt our state is experiencing an unprecedented event,” said Rep. Richmond.  “I anticipate our state officials, after preliminary assessments, will present a formal request for a Major Disaster Declaration by the President.  Your agency, under the President’s leadership, has been responsive to our requests for assistance in the past.  I hope this instance will be no different.  It is my hope that the cooperation will continue and a request for a disaster declaration for the flooding will be submitted as soon as possible, and that federal assistance will follow soon after.” The letter to Administrator Fugate can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-shooting-baton-rouge-police-officers,Rep. Richmond on the Shooting of Baton Rouge Police Officers,2016-07-17,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC – Today, Rep. Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after police officers were the targets of deadly shootings in Baton Rouge: “My prayers are with the families of these officers following this cowardly act,” said Rep. Richmond. “Although we still do not know all of the facts, we do know that acts like these and the people who commit them have no place in our society.” “I have spoken to the Governor this morning and call on federal law enforcement and the Department of Justice to provide all of the necessary resources to find out who the perpetrators are, who knew, and everyone remotely involved in this police assassination.” “I call upon everyone in the community to condemn this act, the actors, and come together to begin to heal from this horrible tragedy. If you know anything, no matter how big or small about these perpetrators please contact the police as soon as possible.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-requests-president-obama-open-federal-investigation-death-alton-sterling,Rep. Richmond Requests President Obama to Open a Federal Investigation on the Death of Alton Sterling,2016-07-06,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a letter sent to President Barack Obama Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) requests a federal investigation into the fatal shooting of Alton Sterling by officers of the Baton Rouge Police Department: “The pain felt by Mr. Sterling’s family is severe and the right of his community to have significant questions answered is pressing,” said Rep. Richmond. “For that reason I am asking you to launch a full investigation into the shooting death of Alton Sterling to uncover what, if any, violations were committed by the officers involved. The letter to President Obama can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/richmond-responds-shooting-alton-sterling-calls-us-department-justice-investigation,Rep. Richmond Responds to Shooting of Alton Sterling Calls for U.S. Department of Justice Investigation,2016-07-06,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement in response to the shooting of Alton Sterling by officers of the Baton Rouge Police Department: “The video footage released today of the shooting of Alton Sterling by officers of the Baton Rouge Police Department was deeply troubling and has understandably evoked strong emotion and anger in our community,” said Rep. Richmond. “I share in this anger and join the community in the pursuit of justice. My prayers and thoughts are with Mr. Sterling's family as they deal with this tragedy.”    “There are a number of unanswered questions surrounding Mr. Sterling's death. Including questions about the initial calls for police presence, the level of force used by officers, the verbal and physical altercation, and the response of the officers after he was shot. I call on the U.S. Department of Justice to conduct a full and transparent investigation into this incident. The cause of justice requires state and local law enforcement to join in this request as soon as possible.”   “I ask the leaders and citizens of Baton Rouge to join me in demonstrating our anger with dignity and demanding proper focus on our cause with perseverance. His family and the citizens of Baton Rouge--especially the citizens of North Baton Rouge--deserve answers and that is what we will seek in a fair, thorough, and transparent way.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-mourns-passing-jefferson-parish-sheriffs-office-deputy-david-michel-jr,Rep. Richmond Mourns the Passing of Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office Deputy David Michel Jr.,2016-06-23,2016,2016-06,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office (JPSO) deputy David Michel Jr. was killed in the line of duty: “Unfortunately, our community has once again been shaken by the senseless death of a member of our law enforcement community,” said Rep. Richmond. “Deputy Michel and his wife, who also works at the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, shared a commitment to serving the public. It takes tremendous courage to put on a uniform and go into harm’s way to protect the public every single day. Working to make the community a safer place takes dedication and compassion. Deputy Michel had these qualities in spades, and for that I will be eternally grateful. “He and his wife demonstrated the dignity of law enforcement, serving the people of Jefferson Parish admirably. His service will not be forgotten. “My deepest condolences and prayers go out to the Michel family and the entire Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office as they go through this most difficult time.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/president-obama-signs-rep-richmond-s-bills-name-post-offices-after-judge-lionel,"President Obama Signs Rep. Richmonds Bills to Name Post Offices After Judge Lionel Collins, Sr. and Officer Daryle Holloway into Law",2016-06-16,2016,2016-06,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after President Barack Obama signed two bills designating post offices for veteran police Officer Daryle Holloway and civil rights legend Judge Lionel Collins into law: “Judge Lionel Collins and Officer Daryle Holloway dedicated their lives to making Louisiana a more safe and equitable place,” said Rep. Richmond. “Judge Collins fought for freedom and fairness in Louisiana at a time when that took tremendous courage. Through his role in the Civil Rights Movement, he broke down barriers so that African-Americans would not be treated as second class citizens.  Officer Daryle Holloway, who was killed in the line of duty, was an upstanding officer in the New Orleans Police Department and a model for community policing. “It was truly a bittersweet moment when President Obama signed this legislation the same day we laid to rest another brave NOPD officer killed in the line of duty, Officer Natasha Hunter. It serves as reminder that every time our officers put on the uniform they are risking their lives to serve and protect us. “I applaud the Senate and the President for their quick action to pass and approve this legislation. It is an honor to sponsor these bills that will commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of these two admirable men for generations to come.”   After passing both chambers of Congress and gaining the President’s signature, H.R. 2458, a bill to designate the post office located at 5351 Lapalco Boulevard in Marrero, Louisiana, as the “Lionel R. Collins, Sr. Post Office Building,” and H.R. 3082, a bill to designate the post office located at 5919 Chef Menteur Highway in New Orleans, Louisiana, as the “Daryle Holloway Post Office Building,” became law on June 13, 2016. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-mourns-passing-officer-natasha-hunter,Rep. Richmond Mourns the Passing of Officer Natasha Hunter,2016-06-07,2016,2016-06,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after Natasha Hunter, a 12-year veteran of the New Orleans Police Department died from her injuries sustained during a collision with a drunk driver: “This is a sad day for the NOPD family and the entire Greater New Orleans community,” said Rep. Richmond. “Officer Hunter embodied every quality you could dream of in a public servant. To her, being a police officer was more than just a job. It was an opportunity to help people when they had a problem, console them through a tough time, and inspire them to be something greater than they ever thought they could be. Impactful police work is more than protecting and serving. It is becoming part of the fabric of the community, and few officers are as deeply woven into the city of New Orleans as Officer Hunter. She was a hero, taken from us and her family far too early by an avoidable tragedy. This loss hits especially hard because a 5-year old girl has just lost her mother. A mother that loved her, provided for her, and did her best to make the community she grew up in safe. I share in the pain that the city is enduring today and will always remember Officer Hunter’s gallant sacrifice and unconquerable dedication every time she put on her uniform. My deepest condolences and prayers are with Officer Hunter’s family, her fellow officers, but especially her young daughter Jasmine. Your mother will always protect you as she has protected all of us her entire career.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-passage-ban-box-legislation-louisiana-legislature,Rep. Richmond Statement on Passage of Ban the Box Legislation in the Louisiana Legislature,2016-05-26,2016,2016-05,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after the Louisiana Legislature passed House Bill 266, which would prohibit state employers from including criminal history questions on hiring applications. The bill will now go to the Governor’s desk, where it is expected to be signed into law: “The ability to find a job is critical for helping ex-offenders successfully reenter society,” said Rep. Richmond. “We know that people who are able to secure a good paying job shortly after their release are much less likely to return to prison. Unfortunately, a job applicant with a criminal record is 50 percent less likely to receive an interview request or job offer. These disparities are larger for Black applicants, who are three times less likely to receive a call back. By improving access to opportunity, we can reduce the prison population and make our communities safer. Improving access is the first step, but there are still too many employment restrictions excluding people with convictions from entering the workforce, both federally and in Louisiana. I applaud the work of Rep. Marcelle and the entire legislature on this bill as well as Gov. Edwards for supporting this cause. This is a very important step, but we must continue to support smart criminal justice reforms and reduce the collateral consequences of incarceration on our community.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-announces-juvenile-reentry-assistance-program-grants-new-orleans,Rep. Richmond Announces Juvenile Reentry Assistance Program Grants in New Orleans,2016-04-25,2016,2016-04,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Cedric Richmond (LA-02) announced over $300K in Juvenile Reentry Assistance Program (JRAP) grants to be distributed to the Housing Authority of New Orleans and South Louisiana Legal Services to address the housing and employment challenges facing youth involved in the juvenile justice system: “America’s juvenile justice system is broken,” said Rep. Richmond. “The unfair restrictions and exclusions we place on young people do nothing to make us safer. In fact, these policies have the opposite effect. By providing reliable housing and the opportunity to get a good job we can reduce recidivism and give young men and women a real opportunity to be successful. That should be our goal. I applaud the administration for providing these resources to improve outcomes for youth in New Orleans and throughout the country.” To  help reduce collateral consequences associated with a juvenile or criminal record, JRAP assists young people up to age 24 residing in public housing, or who would be residing in public housing but for their record, by: Expunging, Sealing, and/or Correcting Juvenile or Adult Records; as permitted by State law; Assisting targeted youth in mitigating/preventing collateral consequences such as, reinstating revoked or suspended drivers’ licenses; Counseling regarding legal rights and obligations in searching for employment; Providing guidance for readmission to school; and Creating or modifying child support orders and other family law services, and more. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-plea-deal-danziger-bridge-case,Rep. Richmond Statement on Plea Deal in Danziger Bridge Case,2016-04-20,2016,2016-04,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after five former New Orleans police officers pled guilty to charges surrounding the shootings of civilians on the Danziger Bridge in the days after Hurricane Katrina: “This plea deal closes one of the darkest chapters in the city’s history and assures us no one is above the law.” said Rep. Richmond.  “This case, which has gone on for more than a decade, not only revealed the brutal and corrupt acts committed by police officers, but the misconduct by former prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s office as well. Without the commitment and tenacity of the Madison family we would have never reached a just ruling in this case. I am thankful for their resolve to see this painful trial through to the end. If there is anything positive that can be taken from this case it is that those responsible are being held accountable as we work to restore faith in our institutions. I am gratified that a decision has finally been reached so the victims and families impacted by this horrible tragedy can finally have some semblance of closure.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-supports-gov-edwards-federal-assistance-request-tornado-victims,Rep. Richmond Supports Gov. Edwards Federal Assistance Request for Tornado Victims,2016-03-21,2016,2016-03,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – In a letter sent to President Barack Obama and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) supported Governor John Bel Edwards’ request for assistance for constituents impacted by recent tornados. Specifically, the Governor has requested Individual Assistance for Assumption, Iberville, St. James, St. John the Baptist, and Livingston parishes and Public Assistance for Assumption, St. James, and St. John the Baptist parishes. This request is necessary to provide much-needed federal resources to help people recover from severe weather that has destroyed homes and damaged communities: “Over the last month, the state of Louisiana has experienced severe storms, massive flooding, and a record amount of tornadic activity,” said Rep. Richmond. “I have seen first-hand the destruction they caused in Assumption and know that the other parishes had communities ripped apart by tornados. I know that state and federal agencies have been working closely together in the response to severe weather in the last month. I hope that cooperation will continue. By declaring the tornados part of a major disaster, the people of Assumption, Iberville, St. James, St. John, and Livingston can get the support they deserve.” The letter to President Obama and Administrator Fugate can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-pushes-additional-federal-resources-parishes-impacted-tornados,Rep. Richmond Pushes for Additional Federal Resources for Parishes Impacted by Tornados,2016-03-14,2016,2016-03,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – In a letter sent to President Barack Obama and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate, Congressmen Cedric Richmond (LA-02) pushed for additional federal assistance so that people and communities affected by the recent tornados receive the resources they need. The tornados, which occurred three weeks ago, caused severe damage in Assumption, Iberville, St. James, St. John the Baptist, and St. Mary parishes. The letter comes after recent severe flooding over the last several days has resulted in a request for and a declaration of a Major Disaster by President Obama: “A Major Disaster Declaration by the President is an important step to getting people affected by the storm the resources they need to rebuild and recover,” said Rep. Richmond. “These storms destroyed lives, homes, and communities across the state and it is our responsibility to ensure that the tornado victims are not left out of the disaster assistance. Louisiana has seen great cooperation between the state and FEMA in the immediate aftermath of these disasters but everyone impacted has not been made whole. I look forward to continued support from the federal government to get the people affected by the tornados the support they need and deserve.” The letter to President Obama and Administrator Fugate can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-designating-post-offices-judge-lionel-collins-sr-and-officer,"Rep. Richmond Statement on Designating Post Offices for Judge Lionel Collins, Sr. and Officer Daryle Holloway",2016-03-01,2016,2016-03,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed two bills designating post offices for veteran police Officer Daryle Holloway and civil rights legend Judge Lionel Collins. “I applaud the House’s passage of my bills honoring civil rights hero Judge Lionel Collins and Officer Daryle Holloway,” said Rep. Richmond. “Judge Collins was a pioneering civil rights advocate who dedicated his life to making Louisiana a more just and equal state. He was not only the first African-American elected to public office in Jefferson Parish. He was a talented and passionate lawyer who led numerous cases overturning ‘whites only’ jobs and unequal pay for African-Americans. “Officer Daryle Holloway, who was killed in the line of duty, was beloved in New Orleans and a model for community policing. Daryle was a father of three, a 22 year veteran of the New Orleans Police Department, and a tireless servant of the New Orleans community. He was most proud of his work with children in the Cops for Kids summer camps, which help develop relationships between police, youth, and their families. “It is my hope that these post offices will serve as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of these two brave men who dedicated their lives to improving their communities.” The House passed H.R. 2458, a bill to designate the post office located at 5351 Lapalco Boulevard in Marrero, Louisiana, as the ""Lionel R. Collins, Sr. Post Office Building,"" and H.R. 3082, a bill to designate the post office located at 5919 Chef Menteur Highway in New Orleans, Louisiana, as the ""Daryle Holloway Post Office Building,” on March 1, 2016.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-passing-rep-ronnie-edwards,Rep. Richmond Statement on the Passing of Rep. Ronnie Edwards,2016-02-24,2016,2016-02,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after Baton Rouge State Rep. Ronnie Edwards passed away, ending an over two-year battle with pancreatic cancer: “Ronnie was a talented and compassionate legislator, but more importantly she was a friend,” said Rep. Richmond. “The news of her passing is not only devastating to me it is a tremendous loss for the entire state. She committed her life to serving her constituents and fighting for those who needed it the most. As we mourn her loss we must honor her legacy by renewing our commitment to the work she fought so hard to complete. Louisiana has lost a lion tonight but her memory will live on forever. My deepest condolences are with her family as they go through this difficult time.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-release-albert-woodfox-0,Rep. Richmond Statement on the Release of Albert Woodfox,2016-02-19,2016,2016-02,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Rep. Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after the release of Alfred Woodfox, the last remaining jailed member of the Angola 3: After 43 long years justice is finally served, said Rep. Richmond. The story of the Angola 3 has shined a light on one of the most inhumane practices in our criminal justice system. That, combined with the extremely high cost to prosecute this case makes this decision long overdue. Since my time in the Legislature I have worked on this issue so that every member of the Angola 3 would make it home. It was because of the Angola 3 that I introduced legislation calling for the Department of Justice to review the misuse of solitary confinement. The bill created awareness not only in Congress but throughout the entire country. This led to an executive order by the President addressing solitary in the federal system, giving us a sense of partial victory. Mr. Woodfox has pledged to devote the rest of his life to advocating against the use of extended solitary confinement. I look forward to supporting him in those efforts and to reform this barbaric practice moving forward. What happened to Mr. Woodfox was cruel and I dont think it will ever be easy to understand, but that process will only be eased if we do all we can to ensure that no one else has to endure the same. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-house-judiciary-committee-approving-bipartisan-prison-reform,Rep. Richmond Statement on House Judiciary Committee Approving Bipartisan Prison Reform Legislation,2016-02-12,2016,2016-02,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after The House Judiciary Committee approved by voice vote the Corrections and Recidivism Reduction Act (H.R. 759), in which he was an original co-sponsor and leading Democrat. If enacted, the bill would reform the federal prison system, strengthen public safety, enhance prison security, provide inmates the help they need, and protect civil liberties: It is imperative that we capitalize on the bipartisan consensus to reform our badly broken criminal justice system, said Rep. Richmond. This legislation is evidence that when you reach across the aisle and are serious about finding a solution it is possible to make a real impact. The billions of dollars we spend on building new prisons are actually making our communities less safe. Focusing on rehabilitation and successful re-entry is a much better investment. Every person we prevent from going back to prison means one less victim. I will continue to bring Democrats and Republicans together to move this type of smart solution forward until we get the federal government out of the business of warehousing inmates and into the business of reforming and rehabilitating people. Key Components of Corrections and Recidivism Reduction Act: Strengthens Public Safety: The Corrections and Recidivism Reduction Act implements a post-sentencing dynamic risk assessment system to determine an inmates risk of committing more crimes upon release from prison. Under the legislation, the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) would utilize effective recidivism reduction programs and provide incentives for inmates to participate in those programs. Ultimately, inmates could earn credits toward an alternative custody arrangement such as a halfway house or home confinement at the end of their prison sentence. Provide Inmates the Help They Need: The bill requires BOP to initiate pilot programs for youth mentorship and the training and therapy of rescue dogs. The bill extends the compassionate elderly release provision from the Second Chance Act that allows the prisoner to request for his or her compassionate release if he or she meets the requirements set out in the law. The bill codifies BOPs rules on using restraints on pregnant inmates, which generally prohibit the use of restraints on pregnant inmates except those who are an immediate and credible flight risk or threat of harm to herself, the baby, or others. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-president-s-budget-proposal,Rep. Richmond Statement on the Presidents Budget Proposal,2016-02-09,2016,2016-02,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after the President released his 2016 budget proposal: The Presidents budget proposal sets clear priorities and funds programs that will help working families get ahead, said Rep. Richmond. The budget is more than just a spending document, it represents our values as a nation. We need to make investments that will have a real impact in peoples lives in order to put our country on a prosperous path forward. Investments like the proposed $3 billion for workforce development would make America the most attractive job market in the world. The additional $2 billion investment in Pell Grants will help ensure every student has a chance to go to college. Hiring 400 new ATF and FBI staff would improve background checks and help prevent guns from falling into the wrong hands. The $100 million for re-entry programs would reduce recidivism and help those exiting the criminal justice system rejoin their communities and lead productive lives. For states like Louisiana that recently decided to expand their Medicaid program to cover hard-working Americans, this budget includes a legislative proposal to provide the same three years of Federal resources as states that expanded in 2014 received. It also makes a new $1 billion investment for cancer detection, treatment, and research. There is not a single American whose life has not been impacted by deadly disease. This proposal would go a long way in tackling cancer once and for all. Unfortunately, Republicans in Congress seem to be more concerned with undermining the President than ensuring every American has a chance to succeed. By refusing to even hold a hearing on this proposal, they have made it clear that they have no interest in actual governing, only in taking every opportunity to disrespect the President. Democratic and Republican Congresses have extended this basic courtesy for the President for the past 41 years regardless of party affiliation and this year should be no different. The American people deserve the opportunity for an open debate on where our values are as a nation, not just talking points. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-introduces-bill-expand-usps-include-basic-financial-services-0,Rep. Richmond Introduces Bill to Expand USPS to Include Basic Financial Services,2016-02-02,2016,2016-02,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Rep. Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after reintroducing the Providing Opportunities for Savings, Transactions and Lending (POSTAL) Act a bill that would expand access to basic financial services for millions of Americans and provide the United States Postal Service (USPS) an opportunity to generate billions of dollars in revenue: Currently, millions of hard-working Americans do not have access to fair and reasonable financial services, said Rep. Richmond. Allowing USPS to offer small-dollar loans and transactions would save working families thousands of dollars and reduce their dependency on predatory lenders. If signed into law, this legislation would both provide financial stability to the millions of unbanked Americans in this country and solidify the fiscal future of the USPS. The POSTAL Act would allow the United States Postal Service to offer basic financial services. Post office customers would be able to open checking accounts, deposit funds in an interest-bearing savings account, and receive small-dollar loans. The bill would also require that the Postal Service offer customers a convenient Postal Card that functions as a debit card and allows them to engage in in-store, mobile, and online transactions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-president-s-action-solitary-confinement,Rep. Richmond Statement on the Presidents Solitary Confinement Executive Action,2016-01-26,2016,2016-01,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Rep. Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after the President ordered changes to how federal prisons use solitary confinement: I have been working to eliminate the abuse of solitary confinement since my time in the Louisiana legislature, said Rep. Richmond. Last summer, I introduced first of its kind legislation calling for the Department of Justice (DOJ) to bring together a panel of stakeholders to study the use of solitary at Bureau of Prisons (BOP) facilities and propose universal standards to end the widespread misuse of the practice. I applaud the President for moving forward with this plan through Executive Action. Because this order can be reversed by future Presidents, a more permanent solution must still come through Congress. I will continue to work with my colleagues on the House Judiciary Committee and the administration to advance legislation that will bring long-term solutions to fix our broken criminal justice system. For more on the Solitary Confinement Study and Reform Act of 2015 click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-responds-state-union-address-0,Rep. Richmond Responds to the State of the Union Address,2016-01-12,2016,2016-01,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Rep. Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement in response to President Obamas final State of the Union Address: President Obama came into office seven years ago under tremendous pressure, and with great promise, said Rep. Richmond. I am confident all Americans heard and have come to appreciate the many challenges we faced and the many opportunities we createdproviding healthcare to 17 million people, creating more than 14 million new jobs, and spurring the longest streak of private sector job creation in history. The President recognizes, just as we all do, that much work remains to ensure all our citizens can feel a tangible sense of security in their daily lives. We have a role to play to level the playing field for every single citizen. In order to address the big issues the President laid out tonight we must work together as partners and not allow differences of opinion or background to divide us but use our unity to make us stronger. Opportunity is still ahead of us to make progress in areas where there is common ground. There is positive momentum to reform our broken criminal justice system, better protect our countrys cyber infrastructure, and prepare our students for the 21st century economy. As policy makers we all strive to create an environment where our neighborhoods are safe, all our children get a quality education, and anyone who works hard and plays by the rules can achieve success. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress and the Administration to realize these goals and to help forge a future every American can look forward to. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://richmond.house.gov/press-releases/rep-richmond-statement-louisiana-expanding-medicaid-under-affordable-care-act,Rep. Richmond Statement on Louisiana Expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act,2016-01-12,2016,2016-01,Democrat,House,LA,Cedric Richmond,R000588,richmond.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after Governor Edwards issued an executive order expanding Medicaid in Louisiana: By expanding Medicaid, Governor Edwards has kept his word to put Louisiana first, said Rep. Richmond. After years of uncertainty, this executive order will give hundreds of thousands of Louisiana residents the peace of mind that comes with access to quality, affordable health insurance. This decision will also bring financial stability to hospitals and businesses throughout Louisiana. This decision puts an end to the political posturing and short-sidedness in the Governors Mansion. I look forward to continuing to work with Governor Edwards in creating a healthier more prosperous Louisiana. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z