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://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/debbie-wasserman-schultz-congressional-caucus-black-jewish-relations,"Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations Condemn Hanukkah Attacks",2019-12-31,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. House members from both sides of the aisle who lead the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations, including a congresswoman from Florida, weighed in on the recent attacks made at a rabbi's home in Monsey, New York. The leadership of the caucusU.S. Reps. Will Hurd, R-NY, Brenda Lawrence, D-Mich., John Lewis, D-Ga., Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., and Lee Zeldin, R-NYissued a joint statement on Sunday about the attacks. On Saturday, five people were stabbed at a Hanukkah event at Rottenberg's home. An hour later, police arrested Grafton Thomas in connection to the attacks.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/lawmakers-condemn-anti-semitic-attacks-new-york-bipartisan-support-victims,Lawmakers Condemn Anti-Semitic Attacks in New York: Bipartisan Support for Victims,2019-12-30,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Republicans and Democrats condemned the recent spate of anti-Semitic attacks in New York, denouncing all violence against Jews. Many Senators and House members released statements emphatically supporting the victims of the most recent attack in the Jewish community of Monsey. The lawmakers voiced their outrage about what appears to be a trend of anti-Semitic violence in the United States. Since Dec. 8, there have been 13 anti-Semitic acts of violence, including the Dec. 28 attack, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said. The attack happened on Saturday at the home of Rabbi Chaim Rottenberg. His home is next to a synagogue. The Leadership of the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations, made up of Co-chairs Brenda Lawrence (D-Mich.), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), Will Hurd (R-Texas), John Lewis (D-Ga.) and Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.), issued this group statement following the attack on Rottenberg's home in Monsey.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/leading-black-jewish-legislators-us-congress-unite-condemnation-antisemitic,"Leading Black, Jewish Legislators in US Congress Unite in Condemnation of Antisemitic Attack in Monsey",2019-12-30,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Three leading African American congressional representatives joined with their Jewish colleagues on Sunday to condemn the stabbing attack at a Hanukkah party in Monsey that left five of the guests wounded. The Leadership of the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations declared in a statement that the incident on Saturday night had to be seen in the context of rising antisemitism in the US and internationally. The statement was signed by veteran civil rights leader Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) who announced on Sunday that he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer along with Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. Brenda Lawrence (D-MI) and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Rep. Will Hurd (R-TX) and Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY). Every individual in this country deserves to feel safe and worship without fear, the statement continued. It is this commitment to diversity that has made the United States a beacon of hope and a place of sanctuary for people around the world. The Caucus will continue to stand united in fighting for liberty and justice for all.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/most-powerful-feminist-moments-2019,The most powerful feminist moments of 2019,2019-12-30,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Who run the world? From Serena Williams and Johanna Konta, to Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, 2019 has seen countless women stand up and speak their truth in the name of feminism. We've smashed taboos, united to end violence against women, made history (again!), refused to conform, and called out misogyny wherever and whenever possible. 3) Democrats wear white in solidarity with suffragettes. In February, the women of the Democrats dressed in white for President Donald Trump's State of the Union to remind him, and his administration, that women will not relinquish their rights their ancestors fought for. Today, we stand together wearing white in solidarity with the women of the suffrage movement who refused to take no for an answer, said Rep. Brenda Lawrence. Women had to march, make demands and fight for right for the voice and have the right to vote. The women's movement was full of fighters who refused to be treated as second class citizens, but still today, 100 years after women received the right to vote, the battle continues. Our very existence, it seems, is resistance in light of the times we find ourselves in. She continued: This White House administration has tried to close its doors on women, but we will not be locked out. The administration that has closed its eyes to women, we will be seen. To an administration that refuse to listen to us, we will be heard",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-caucus-black-jewish-relations-condemns-attack-rabbi-s-home,CONGRESSIONAL CAUCUS ON BLACK-JEWISH RELATIONS CONDEMNS ATTACK ON RABBIS HOME,2019-12-29,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. The Leadership of the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations, made up of Co-chairs Brenda Lawrence (D-MI), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Will Hurd (R-TX), John Lewis (D-GA) and Lee Zeldin (R-NY), issued this group statement following the attack on Rabbi Chaim Rottenberg's home in Monsey, New York: We condemn in the strongest possible terms the anti-Semitic attack in Rabbi Chaim Rottenberg's home in Monsey, New York, during the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. This surge in anti-Semitic attacks is a disturbing trend both here in the United States and abroad. We cannot tolerate these discriminatory, hateful, and cowardly acts. We stand with the victims in Monsey, their families, and the entire Jewish community- who have been victims of violent attacks during Hanukkah, a holiday that celebrates religious freedom. Every individual in this country deserves to feel safe and worship without fear. It is this commitment to diversity that has made the United States a beacon of hope and a place of sanctuary for people around the world. The Caucus will continue to stand united in fighting for liberty and justice for all. ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-building-blocks-stem-act-signed-law,Rep. Stevens’ Building Blocks of STEM Act Signed Into Law,2019-12-27,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, President Trump signed into law the Building Blocks of STEM Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) to strengthen STEM education for young learners and address the gender gap in STEM fields. The Building Blocks of STEM Act was the first piece of legislation introduced by Congresswoman Stevens. As Chair of the House Science Subcommittee on Research and Technology, Congresswoman Stevens has been a strong advocate for women and girls in STEM. The bill instructs the National Science Foundation (NSF) to more equitably allocate funding for research with a focus on early childhood. The bill also directs NSF to support research on the factors that discourage or encourage girls to engage in STEM activities, including computer science. U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led the bipartisan Senate version of the bill. Click HERE to see the full text of the Building Blocks of STEM Act. “I am thrilled that the Building Blocks of STEM Act has been signed into law,” said Congresswoman Haley Stevens. “This legislation will help ensure that our children are prepared to thrive in the 21st century economy by directing public resources to study opportunities for early childhood STEM education and strategies to encourage girls to engage in STEM & computer science. Women and girls everywhere need to know that they can succeed in the STEM fields, and that our country and our economy won’t succeed without them. Let’s keep advocating, encouraging, and mentoring the diverse next generation of STEM leaders.” “As a school superintendent, I understand the importance of introducing STEM education to students at an early age. The earlier students have an opportunity to engage with STEM concepts, the more likely they are to develop an academic interest in these topics. I applaud Congresswoman Stevens for helping promote early childhood STEM education,” said Dr. Wanda Cook-Robinson, Superintendent of the Oakland Schools Intermediate School District. “Now more than ever, we must work to break down barriers so that all girls have access to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and computer science,” said Kimberly Churches, Chief Executive Officer of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). “The bipartisan Building Blocks of STEM Act will strengthen early childhood STEM education and lead to more effective policies and practices to increase the number of women in our STEM workforce. AAUW thanks Representative Stevens for her attention to this important issue and looks forward to working with her and the rest of the Members of House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology on this important bill.” “Increasing girls’ exposure to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) is critical to maintaining America’s competitive advantage in the global economy,” said Sylvia Acevedo, CEO of Girl Scouts of the USA. “By increasing federal support for research and programming that engages girls in STEM, the Building Blocks of STEM Act brings us closer to realizing the benefits of a more diverse and representative STEM workforce that can advance our country’s technological, economic, and security interests. As the single largest girl-serving, girl-led leadership program in the country, Girl Scouts' is proud to support Congresswoman Stevens’ and we applaud passage of this legislation.” Background on Congresswoman Stevens’ Advocacy for Women and Girls in STEM: In June, Congresswoman Stevens voted to advance the STEM Opportunities Act and the Combating Sexual Harassment in Science Act through the Science Committee. In May, Congresswoman Stevens was named to Putman Media’s 2019 Class of Influential Women in Manufacturing along with 27 other manufacturing leaders from around the country. In April, Congresswoman Stevens delivered a passionate floor speech in support of the Hidden Figures Congressional Gold Medal Act, a bill that would awards the Congressional Gold Medal, Congress’s highest civilian honor, to Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, Dorothy Vaughan, Christine Darden, and all the women computers, mathematicians, and engineers at NASA. In March, Congresswoman Stevens’ sent a letter to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to express her concern with gender disparities in research grant awards and request a response detailing the actions that the NIH is taking to address this gap. In February, Congresswoman Stevens invited recently retired science teacher Jean Bueller to be her guest at the 2019 State of the Union address. Before serving in Congress, Congresswoman Stevens launched a STEM education program that introduced 200 middle school and high school students to digital manufacturing concepts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-one-year-anniversary-of-paul-whelans-unjust-detention-in-russia,Peters Statement on One-Year Anniversary of Paul Whelan’s Unjust Detention in Russia,2019-12-23,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.23.19 Peters Statement on One-Year Anniversary of Paul Whelan's Unjust Detention in Russia DETROIT, MI U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today released the statement below in advance of the one-year anniversary since Russian authorities detained Novi resident Paul Whelan on December 28, 2018. Since Whelan's detention, Russian authorities have presented no evidence against him and continue to delay his trial, despite concerns surrounding his health. After one year of detention without due process and restricted consular access for American officials the Russians have presented no credible evidence against Paul. It is clear that Paul's detention is a political stunt by the Russians, and it is past time they release him. I remain very concerned about Paul's well-being, and I'm going to continue working with his family to press for answers and ensure we're doing everything we can to bring this nightmare to an end. Enough is enough: the Russian government needs to let Paul go. Earlier this year, Peters joined a bipartisan group of members in the Michigan Congressional delegation in urging Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to press for a fair and transparent judicial process for Whelan. He has also called on President Trump to take all appropriate action to advocate for Whelan's release and he urged the President to have the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs to work on securing Whelan's release. Peters also led a bipartisan and bicameral effort calling for the Russian government to release Whelan and introduced a Senate resolution pressing for Whelan's release and condemning Russia. Peters recently authored an op-ed in the Oakland Press on Whelan's detention, which can be read by clicking here. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/bill-promote-mahatma-gandhis-legacy-introduced-us-house-representatives,Bill to promote Mahatma Gandhi's legacy introduced in US House of Representatives,2019-12-21,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"America's legendary civil rights chief Congressman John Lewis has launched a invoice within the Home of Representatives to advertise the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr and sought a budgetary allocation of USD 150 million for the subsequent 5 years. Launched to mark the 150th start anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Home Invoice (HR 5517) affirms the friendship between the 2 largest democracies of the world and honours the legacy and contributions of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr Martin Luther King. Amongst different issues, the invoice proposes establishing a Gandhi-King Growth Basis, which shall be created by the USAID beneath the Indian legal guidelines. It's being co-sponsored by six different Democratic lawmakers, three of whom are Indian-Individuals Dr Ami Bera, Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal. The three different Congressmen are Brenda Lawrence, Brad Sherman and James McGovern.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/us-house-representatives-consider-bill-aimed-promoting-mahatma-gandhis,US House Of Representatives To Consider Bill Aimed At Promoting Mahatma Gandhi's Legacy,2019-12-21,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"The US House Of Representatives is set to consider a bill to promote the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. The bill which was introduced by legendary civil rights leader Congressman John Lewis has also sought a budgetary allocation of USD 150 million for the next five years. Introduced to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the House Bill (HR 5517) affirms the friendship between the two largest democracies of the world and honours the legacy and contributions of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr Martin Luther King. Among other things, the bill proposes establishing a Gandhi-King Development Foundation, which will be created by the USAID under the Indian laws. The bill seeks a budgetary allocation of USD 30 million every year for the next five years to the USAID for this foundation. This foundation would have a governing council convened by governments of the United States and India and would oversee grants to NGOs in the areas of health, pollution and climate change, education and women empowerment, the bill says. It is being co-sponsored by six other Democratic lawmakers, three of whom are Indian-Americans -- Dr Ami Bera, Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal. The three other Congressmen are Brenda Lawrence, Brad Sherman and James McGovern.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-provisions-to-preserve-great-lakes-lower-prescription-drug-costs-for-michiganders-signed-into-law,"Peters Provisions to Preserve Great Lakes, Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Michiganders Signed into Law",2019-12-21,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.21.19 Peters Provisions to Preserve Great Lakes, Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Michiganders Signed into Law Measures Peters Led and Supported in Final Government Funding Bill Include Increased Great Lakes Funding, Expanded Resources for Fisheries Programs, and Lower Prescription Drug Costs DETROIT, MI Provisions led and supported by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to strengthen Great Lakes protection, restoration and fisheries programs, and to lower prescription drug costs for Michiganders were signed into law last night as part of the government funding bill for Fiscal Year 2020. Peters, a member of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, said of the Great Lakes provisions: The Great Lakes are part of who we are as Michiganders. They provide drinking water to 40 million people, are an economic engine for communities across Michigan and are a vital national resource. That's why we need to do everything we can to protect the Great Lakes for future generations. I'm glad this bill has been signed into law and includes key provisions I led that will increase critical funding for Great Lakes clean-up and restoration, sustain Michigan fisheries and help pave the way for a new icebreaker. Peters said of the provisions to lower prescription drug costs: When drug companies manipulate prices and availability of medicine to boost their bottom lines, it can force hardworking Michiganders to have to choose between securing the medication they need or paying their bills. That must change. I am encouraged that the bipartisan measures I cosponsored are now law and will help lower prescription drug costs including for insulin and increase market competition. I will keep working on commonsense efforts that will reduce prescription drug costs for Michiganders. A number of provisions that Peters led or supported in the legislation to support the Great Lakes include: Increasing Funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: Peters secured a provision to provide the first increase in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funding since the program was established nearly a decade ago. As a result of Peters' bipartisan efforts with Senator Rob Portman (R-OH), GLRI will receive $320 million in the coming year.This is significant especially after President Trump proposed slashing the program by 90% earlier this year. The provision Peters secured in this end-of-year legislation builds on his bipartisan measure that passed the Senate unanimously in October. Expanding Resources for Great Lakes Fisheries Programs: The bill includes Peters' bipartisan legislation introduced with U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-OH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) to authorize Great Lakes fishery funding and help support effective fishery management decisions. The Great Lakes Fishery Research Authorization (GLFRA) Act will enable the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to continue to conduct research to help support the over the $7 billion Great Lakes sport and commercial fishery industries. It also will authorize the Great Lakes Science Center which helps sustain Great Lakes fisheries and reduce threats such as invasive species and harmful algal blooms. This bill authorizes $15 million each year from Fiscal Years 2020-2024 and gives the USGS Director greater authority to devote money to the Great Lakes. Funding the Great Lakes Center of Expertise for Freshwater Oil Spill Research and Response: Peters secured $1.5 million in funding for the U.S. Coast Guard National Center of Expertise for the Great Lakes. Last year Peters got signed into law his provision to establish the Center. The Great Lakes National Center of Expertise will examine the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and help develop effective responses. Current oil spill response technologies are primarily designed for saltwater environments.The funding included in the bill will help the Coast Guard plan for and establish the Center. Improving Icebreaking Capacity for the Great Lakes: Peters secured $4 million to enable the Coast Guard to establish a major acquisition office to enhance icebreaking capacity for the Great Lakes and provide annual program support. The Coast Guard must have greater capability to carry out icebreaking assignments on the Great Lakes during winters with severe ice coverage to enable maritime commerce and assist with potential emergency responses. The provisions Peters supported in the legislation to help lower prescription drug costs include: Combating Anticompetitive Business Practices: Legislation Peters cosponsored will help combat anticompetitive practices used by some pharmaceutical and biologic companies to block lower cost generic drugs from entering the marketplace. The Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act will help encourage greater competition and help lower costs for consumers. Increasing Access to Affordable Insulin: Peters cosponsored bipartisan legislation to speed up approvals of lower-cost and generic insulin prices and help lower costs of the life-saving drug. The Affordable Insulin Approvals Now Act will create a faster path for U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and help promote competition and bring lower-cost generics to market sooner. With an over 600 percent price increase over the past two decades, unaffordable insulin has impacted nearly 7.5 million Americansincluding Michiganders with diabetes, who depend on daily insulin treatments to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2037,Message from Dingell,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) passed along this message: As an antidote to the last week, I found John Dingell's own words from last December. He was alive at the time and wrote these words about his friend George H.W. Bush. His words were about him and his friend, who both worried about the direction of this country. Happy Holidays and may we take their message to heart, said Dingell. John Dingell's op-ed on Former President George H.W. Bush originally appeared in the Detroit News in December 2018. John Dingell: May Bush inspire us to remember our history This past weekend we lost former President George H.W. Bush. He was a public servant in the highest definitions. Over the next few days, you'll read plenty about both President Bush's political and public life. But I want to remember the George I knew and worked with for decades, and shared our latter years. As history will have it, George was the last president to serve in WWII and I was the last WWII veteran in Congress. Both of us understood how fragile this American democracy was and the atrocities that were occurring in the world. Both of us signed up immediately when war was declared and knew our moral responsibility to defend America and fight for the freedom of mankind. Our friendship was forged over countless games of paddle ball, wild game dinners and intense, yet respectful, policy debates. We were from a political generation that understood delivering for the American people was more important than political wins. The success of government and good public policy is the success of hard-working men and women. Remember the note he left President Clinton on inauguration day: You will be our president when you read this note. Your success now is our country's success. I will be rooting hard for you. We were Members of Congress at a time when people got to know each other. President Bush was never too important to not spend time with his friends. We knew each other's wives and children some of our children dated and we knew we all had responsibilities to each other and the constituents of their districts as well as ours. At dinners or in the gym we shared the ups and downs of life, our thoughts on issues of the day and actually listened to each other's perspectives. We didn't always agree, could have some very tough discussions. I proudly wore the label President Bush gave me that I could be a giant pain in the ass. But he and I knew if either of us gave our word it was golden and you could take it to the bank. President Bush always cared about people. He and Barbara paid attention to the little things. They knew when people were down, needed a kind word, a helping hand. They would make people feel at home, comfortable, and at ease. Deborah remembers working with Barbara on many projects, particularly childhood health. George Bush came from a time (as did I) when we believed that American equality demands that we treat one another with the same dignity and respect with which we expect to be treated. He was horrified at the harshness our national discourse has taken and deeply disturbed at watching too many people speak past each other. We both shared deep concern about the hateful taunts, the despicable actions and language that plague our political cultural. We both acknowledged to each other that we are looking at our lives in the rear view mirror and that it was time to turn over our responsibilities to a younger generation. But it is my hope, that as millions of Americans remember my friend, it will inspire them to remember the history of America and how we endured tough times. May the stories of my good friend help us find our way back to a society that promotes dialogues, not demagogues, and that it helps us to remember we, the people, have the ability to restore this great nation to common ground rather than letting it continue its downward spiral into constant chaos. I am an old man now and imagine I will soon be joining my friend, George, in heaven ( I hope, for both of us). Barbara will have to watch out for me for awhile, because I pray the lovely Deborah has a lot more time on earth to carry out the mission of public service. Our ages bore with them responsibilities to share what we had witnessed and experienced in our lifetimes so that future generations can learn and with some luck avoid making some of the same mistakes we made and history has witnessed. Godspeed dear friend, I suspect I will be seeing you soon. But may your life inspire generations and, as your life work is remembered, teach some of these young pups some valuable life lessons. John D. Dingell, a Dearborn Democrat, was the longest serving member of the U.S. House of Representatives and author of The Dean; The Best Seat in the House. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://tlaib.house.gov/media/press-releases/nl,Rep. Tlaib Debuts End of Year Newsletter,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Rashida Tlaib,T000481,tlaib.house.gov,,,legacy,Please see below for Congresswoman Tlaib's end of year newsletter:,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-improving-broadband-maps-passes-senate,Peters Bipartisan Bill Improving Broadband Maps Passes Senate,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.20.19 Peters Bipartisan Bill Improving Broadband Maps Passes Senate WASHINGTON, DC The U.S. Senate yesterday unanimously passed bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to improve the accuracy of the FCC's broadband availability maps by modernizing how broadband data is collected. The Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (DATA) Act, which Peters introduced with U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), John Thune (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), would improve the accuracy of the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) broadband availability maps by strengthening the process by which broadband data is collected. The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for approval before it can head to the President to be signed into law. From helping small businesses connect with their customers to providing students the resources they need to succeed, access to high-speed broadband is critical to communities across Michigan, said Senator Peters. I am pleased that this bill, which will more accurately track broadband availability, has passed the Senate, and I look forward to continue working to get this bill signed into law so that we can close the digital divide in rural and urban communities across Michigan. Policymakers need to have accurate maps that tell us where broadband is available and where it is not in order to close the digital divide between rural and urban America, said Senator Wicker. This bill would be an important step for collecting more precise data to improve the FCC's flawed maps that waste resources and stifle economic development opportunities. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for working with me on this important issue, and I urge the House to take up and pass the Broadband DATA Act. I'm glad to see our bipartisan broadband mapping bill pass the Senate today, said Senator Thune. Reliable broadband maps are an especially important tool to close the digital divide in rural areas, like much of South Dakota, but without accurate data, the mapping isn't as effective. With this legislation, the FCC will be required to update its broadband maps ensuring more South Dakotans will be connected to next-generation broadband services, and I thank Chairman Wicker for his leadership on this effort. This is an important step in helping the kids that grow up in rural America to be able to live in rural America, said Senator Klobuchar. When rural Americans have access to the infrastructure needed to support improving access to broadband then we keep rural America competitive in the 21st century and beyond. If we want to bridge the urban-rural divide, we have to close the digital divide and this legislation helps with granular data collection for more accurate mapping so that we can bring high-speed internet to every family, regardless of their zip code. The bill would also direct the FCC to consider whether to collect verified coverage data from state, local and tribal governments, as well as from other entities, and introduce a new process for consumers, state, local and Tribal governments, and other groups to challenge FCC maps with their own data. The bipartisan legislation is supported by the Rural Broadband Association, the United States Telecom Association, the Internet & Television Association, the Wireless Internet Service Providers Association and the Competitive Carriers Association. Peters has led numerous efforts in Congress to expand Michiganders' access to high-speed internet. In June, Peters wrote to the FCC urging prioritization for colleges and universities that are providing broadband access to communities that need it most. Additionally, Peters helped introduce legislation to overturn the Federal Communications Commission's 2017 decision to repeal net neutrality rules. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-efforts-to-support-michigan-servicemembers-and-defense-sector-address-pfas-crisis-signed-into-law-by-president-trump,"Peters’ Efforts to Support Michigan Servicemembers & Defense Sector, Address PFAS Crisis Signed into Law by President Trump",2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.20.19 Peters' Efforts to Support Michigan Servicemembers & Defense Sector, Address PFAS Crisis Signed into Law by President Trump DETROIT, MI U.S. Senator Gary Peters' (MI) provisions to support our servicemembers, strengthen Michigan's growing defense sector and address the PFAS crisis were signed into law tonight as part of the national defense bill. The National Defense Authorization Act sets policy for the Department of Defense (DoD). Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, said of the provisions to support servicemembers and Michigan's defense sector: Michigan's role in safeguarding our national security has never been more critical, and this bill supports our state's servicemembers and growing defense footprint. I'm proud that the national defense bill is now law and will give our servicemembers a much-deserved pay raise, help resolve an issue facing members of our National Guard and Reserve in accessing the benefits they've earnedand make critical investments in Michigan's defense sector that contribute to the safety of our servicemembers overseas and our safety here at home. Peters, Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, said of the provisions to address the PFAS crisis: Michigan communities, families and our military are being harmed by PFAS contamination. While I am pleased this includes provisions to phase out firefighting foam with PFAS and improve coordination between the Department of Defense and states on remediation efforts, there is no question we have more work to do. I will continue pushing the Trump Administration to help clean up contaminated sites and establish drinking water standards and look for opportunities to address this issue for Michigan in the Senate. Peters led or supported provisions that were signed into law and will help: Address the PFAS Crisis Stopping the Use of PFAS Chemicals in Firefighting Foams: The bill prevents the Department of Defense from buying firefighting foam that contains PFAS after October 1, 2023 and from using these foams after October 1, 2024. The Senate unanimously passed Peters' resolution in September calling for the final defense bill to include a similarprovision. This builds on Peters' work in last year's annual defense bill that is now law, which urged the Department of Defense to develop fluorine-free firefighting foams. Preventing Use of PFAS-laden Firefighting Foams in Training Exercises: The bill directs the Secretary of Defense to prohibit the use of firefighting foams containing PFAS in military training exercises. Increasing Coordination on PFAS Remediation Efforts, Data Between the Department of Defense and States:Peters secured a provision that will encourage the Department of Defense to finalize cooperative agreements with states and partner with Governors to address, test, monitor, remove, or remediatePFAS contamination originating from Department of Defense activities, including at decommissioned military installations and National Guard facilities. If a cooperative agreement is not reached within one year of the request from a state, the Secretary of Defense must report to Congress explaining why. This measure is similar to bipartisan legislation thatPeters introduced with Senator Debbie Stabenow and other colleagues. The bill additionally requires the Department of Defense to share PFAS in water monitoring data with nearby municipalities. Developing New Technologies to Detect PFAS, Adding PFAS to the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory, Helping Farms Impacted by PFAS from Military Sites:The bill includes a provision Peters supported that provides the US Geological Survey with more resources to develop new advanced technologies to detect PFAS and conduct nationwide sampling for PFAS in the environmentbased on the bipartisanPFAS Detection Actthat Peters reintroduced with Stabenow earlier this year; and adds PFAS to the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory, affording better transparency on when and where PFAS chemicals are created, used and disposed of. The bill also authorizes the U.S. Air Force to compensate agricultural lands contaminated by PFAS near military installations. Support Our Servicemembers and Their Families: Pay Raise for Troops: This bill includes 3.1% pay increase for all servicemembers that Peters supported. This is the largest increase in a decade. Repealing the Widow's Tax': The bill repeals the Military Widow's Tax,' ending a law that has penalized our nation's Gold Star families and had prevented them from receiving the full survivor benefits they have earned and deserve. Military widows and widowers who qualify for the VA's Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) are currently forced to take a dollar-for-dollar offset from the Survivors Benefit Plan benefit. Ensuring Servicemembers and Their Families Receive the Benefits They Have Earned: The bill includes a provision based on Peters' bipartisan legislation he introduced to provide members of the National Guard and Reserves a record of service after their retirement or completion of service. This will be similar to a DD-214. The DD-214 form is often required by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and other private sector institutions to certify qualification for benefits. Currently, Reservists do not receive a separation document detailing their service and Guardsmen do not receive the same forms as Active Duty servicemembers after completion of service. This change will help ensure that members of the National Guard and Reserves have documentation to receive the benefits they have earned. Strengthening Coordination to Help Servicemembers Transitioning to Civilian Life: Peters sponsored a provision in the bill to improve coordination between the Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs and veterans services organizations to help servicemembers transitioning out of the military.The provision will allow servicemembers to opt-in to provide contact information to veterans service organizations that provide resources to help veterans transition to civilian employment or receive the benefits they have earned. Increasing Resources for STARBASE Military Educational Program: Peters supported a measure that will authorize an additional $30 million in funding for the Science and Technology Academies Reinforcing Basic Aviation and Space Exploration (STARBASE) program. This highly successful program offers hands-on educational experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County was the original STARBASE and continues to operate one of the premiere programs in the country. Addressing Issues with Privatized Military Housing: Peters' provision will allow servicemembers to receive a report with all information regarding maintenance at a military housing unit for the previous 7 years before moving in. This will provide transparency as servicemembers decide on military housing for them and their families and aims to incentivize landlords to properly maintain housing units. The Senate Armed Services Committee has received testimony about horrendous conditions in certain privatized military housing units that have caused health issues, including from a servicemember originally from Michigan living at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Invest in Michigan's Defense Sector and Advanced Technology: Authorizing Significant Investment in Michigan Military Construction Project: Peters secured an authorization of $24 million for a military construction project at the Detroit Arsenal in Warren, MI. This marks the largest investment in a Michigan military construction project in nearly five years. The investment will help allow the Arsenal to upgradeits electrical substation, which will support the research and development of ground vehicle systems and growth that has occurred at the installation. Funding Stryker Vehicle Upgrades: Peters supported provisions that will provide additional support to the U.S. Army Stryker vehicle program. The Stryker is the Army's most versatile and deployable combat vehicle. The bill authorizes over $916 million to provide critically needed upgrades to the Army's Stryker vehicle fleet. The Stryker A1 configuration includes safety and survivability modifications, including greater mine resistance and improved mobility. General Dynamics Land Systems in Sterling Heights is the prime contractor for the Stryker armored vehicle and many Michigan companies serve as suppliers. Support for Ground Vehicle Sustainment: Recognizing that many of the Army's legacy vehicles rely on parts that are no longer in production or are difficult to procure, Peters supported a provision in the bill authorizing $4 million for the Ground Vehicle Systems Center in Warren, MI to invest in manufacturing research and manufacturing techniques, like 3-D printing, which can be used to produce these spare parts at a significant cost savings. Invest in Missile Defense and Support U.S. Security Interests Investing in Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Research: Peters led a provision in the bill that authorizes a program for joint research and development with Israel on counter-unmanned aerial systems technology. A range of unmanned aerial systems from small, commercially available platforms to larger, armed aircraft pose a threat to both the United States and Israel. This cooperative research program will allow the United States military to benefit from Israel's expertise and experience in countering unmanned aerial systems. Funding Cooperative Missile Defense Programs with the State of Israel: The bill authorizes $500 million for cooperative missile defense programs with Israel, including the Iron Dome, Arrow, and David's Sling, consistent with the 2016 Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Government of Israel. Identifying Potential Locations for a Missile Defense Site: Peters supported a provision that requires the Department of Defense to publish a report on a potential future missile defense site. Fort Custer Training Center in Battle Creek, MI is one of three candidate sites that were evaluated. Designating Fort Custer as the preferred location for a missile defense site would serve to recognize the installation's strategic significance and the importance of Fort Custer for years to come. Other Provisions: Combating Fentanyl Trafficking: Peters supported a provision based on a bipartisan bill he cosponsored to crack down on international manufacturers and traffickers of fentanyl by helping curb the production and distribution of illicit synthetic opioids. These provisions will also pressure China to pursue legitimate enforcement of those regulations by directing the Administration to impose sanctions on Chinese drug manufacturers, trafficking organizations and any financial institutions that assist these entities. Investing in Defense Community Infrastructure Programs: Peters supported a provision in the bill that authorizes $75 million for the Defense Community Infrastructure Program. This program provides matching grants to state and local government projects that address critical infrastructure needs that impact military bases but are located off-base. State and local governments may apply for matching grants for infrastructure, utility, public safety, and services projects that will benefit a military base. Peters is the co-chair of the Senate Defense Communities Caucus, a bipartisan organization of senators committed to advancing issues important to defense communities. Defense communities in Michigan include those near Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Fort Custer Training Center, Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, the Battle Creek Air National Guard Base, and the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center. Improving Resilience of Military Installations Vulnerable to Impacts of Severe Weather: The bill includes a provision Peters led that will authorize the Department of Defense to strengthen the resilience of installations vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Military bases whether in Florida or Nebraska for example have been devastated by severe weather this year pre-disaster mitigation efforts would help prevent damage and save federal taxpayers. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/traverse-city-cherry-grower-praises-peters-efforts-to-crack-down-on-unfair-trade-practices-in-latest-installment-of-on-the-job-for-michigan,Traverse City Cherry Grower Praises Peters’ Efforts To Crack Down on Unfair Trade Practices in Latest Installment of ‘On the Job for Michigan’,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.20.19 Traverse City Cherry Grower Praises Peters' Efforts To Crack Down on Unfair Trade Practices in Latest Installment of On the Job for Michigan' TRAVERSE CITY, MI U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today released the latest installment of On the Job for Michigan, a series highlighting his office's work supporting Michiganders across the state. NelsVeliquette grew up on a cherry farm in Traverse City and now helps run his own cherry business with his family. He explains how Michigan cherry growers are facing devastating consequences as a result of illegal dumping of dried tart cherries from Turkey. He says that when an industry of their size discovers unfair trade practices from a foreign country, they have to pay the millions of dollars required to bring a case to the International Trade Commission (ITC). This cost falls on the growers and producers who are already navigating issues with weather, pests and other economic issues. Nels who is CFO and VP of Cherry Ke, Inc. and Cherries R Us, Inc. says he supports Peters' bipartisanSelf-Initiation Trade Enforcement Actthat would create a task force within the Department of Commerce to investigate potential trade abuses for small and medium-sized industries. Click hereto watch the full video. Peters' bipartisanlegislation would help enforce trade laws for small and medium-sized businesses that are undercut by unfair trade practices. Under current law, the Commerce Department has the authority to self-initiate investigations into dumping and subsidies, but rarely utilizes this authority. The majority of their investigations begin only after companies or industry representatives lodge formal complaints. Small and medium-sized businesses, including agricultural producers, manufacturers, parts suppliers, and paper goods producers, often lack the resources needed to identify unfair practices and bring them to the attention of the Commerce Department. Peters met with cherry growers in the Grand Traverse area inAprilandearly November of this year. Hewelcomedthe Dried Tart Cherry Coalition's anti-dumping and countervailing duty petitions filed in April, andapplaudeda preliminary decision by the ITC to institute tariffs against Turkish tart cherry exporters. In December, Peters and Nels Veliquette testified at a U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) hearing in support of Michigan cherry growers' efforts to hold Turkish tart cherry exporters accountable for continually using unfair trade practices. The Department of Commerce is currently scheduled to issue its final determinations on the matter in January. A fact sheet is publishedhere. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-congressman-andy-levin-statement-usmca-vote,VIDEO: Congressman Andy Levin Statement on USMCA Vote,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Andy Levin,L000592,andylevin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Andy Levin today made the below remarks from the House Floor on the USMCA vote: The threshold question for any NAFTA replacement must be whether it will finally stop the outflow of American jobs and raise the standard of living for Mexican, Canadian, and, of course, American workers. My Democratic colleagues have worked tirelessly to ensure NAFTA's replacement leads to positive change. And I thank them for their efforts, which have improved the deal President Trump originally negotiated. But these improvements will not be enough to overhaul the entrenched system in Mexico that denies workers their rights, keeps wages unconscionably low and, consequently, incentivizes companies to ship jobs to Mexicoand out of our communities, like mine in Southeast Michigan. Mexico has not demonstrated the will meaningfully to reform its labor system, and the weakness of the USMCA's enforcement mechanisms means that we will not be able to hold Mexico's feet to the fire when promised reforms do not occur. I genuinely hope I am wrong about this. But I fear we can expect that USMCA will perpetuate the harms of NAFTA for Mexican and American workers alike. Therefore, I oppose this legislation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-kildee-passage-impeachment-articles-against-president,Statement by Congressman Dan Kildee on the Passage of Impeachment Articles Against President Trump,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed two articles of impeachment against President Donald J. Trump: Today is a solemn day. The President abused the powers of his office, betrayed the public trust and undermined America's national security by pressuring a foreign government to interfere in our elections for his own political gain. Damning evidence has been presented about the President's misconduct in office, and it is clear to me that the President has committed an impeachable offense. As a Member of Congress, I took an oath to protect and defend the Constitution. While I did not come to Congress to impeach the President of the United States, sadly the President's misconduct has left us no choice. These two articles of impeachment were necessary to defend our Constitution, protect our democracy and hold this President accountable. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-kildee-usmca,Statement by Congressman Dan Kildee on USMCA,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, issued the following statement on the U.S.-Mexico Canada Agreement: NAFTA has been a disaster for the people I represent. Since NAFTA's passage, Michigan has lost nearly 170,000 jobs. One only needs to drive through older, industrial communities across the Midwest to see vacant and abandoned factories that serve as daily reminders of bad trade deals. Thus, I supported the decision to renegotiate NAFTA. Ultimately, because of the leadership of Speaker Pelosi, Chairman Neal and AFL-CIO President Trumka, the USMCA represents an improvement over NAFTA for workers. Although it is far from perfect, I will support USMCA because it is better than the status quo of NAFTA. And let's be clear that's the choice. Either USMCA, with its flaws, or the disaster that has been NAFTA. I may not like the choice, but that's the choice I have. No trade deal, including USMCA, will reverse the job loss of past bad trade deals. But compared to the status quo, USMCA presents an opportunity to improve the lives of American workers by replacing NAFTA and creating new and stronger labor enforcement tools. As a member of Ways and Means Committee and Trade Subcommittee, I will work tirelessly to make sure we enforce this agreement and ensure that Mexico lives up its commitments. The status quo of NAFTA is not good enough for the people I represent. Far more needs to be done to protect and advance opportunity for American workers. As an example, Trade Adjustment Assistance, a critical backstop for workers impacted by trade, expires soon. Thus, I intend to lead efforts in Congress to reform and expand the program, especially to help distressed communities. We need to ensure older, industrial cities and towns impacted by bad trade deals like NAFTA are able to compete and win in the twenty-first century economy. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2034,Dingell to Vote for North American Trade Deal,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) announced she will support the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on trade: We have to be honest, this trade deal won't undo the deep damage NAFTA 1.0 did to American workers, American manufacturing, and our environment. Today, factories sit empty in Michigan and across my district while workers are unable to compete with sub-par, non-union workers in other countries. It is just not going to uproot factories from overseas and bring them back home. This agreement is an improvement, but our work is just beginning to strengthen American manufacturing, invest in workers, and grow our economy. This agreement has earned my vote because of significant improvements made over the last year. We fought hard to improve the original deal because what the Trump Administration first proposed wasn't sufficient. Democrats fought for stronger labor and environmental standards and tougher enforcement mechanisms that for the first time in the history of trade agreements that could penalize companies that abuse workers. It's important to recognize the hard work of Speaker Pelosi, Ways & Means Chairman Neal, the Trade Working Group and our friends in labor and environment that worked diligently with Ambassador Lighthizer to get this agreement to Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-representative-brenda-lawrence-issues-statement-usmca-trade-agreement,U.S. Representative Brenda Lawrence Issues Statement on USMCA Trade Agreement,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, U.S. Representative Brenda L. Lawrence (MI-14) issued the following statement on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA): Today, I announce my support for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). For more than 25 years, Michigan's working families have been living through the consequences of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). During this time, we have expressed our concerns and raised our voices to demand a trade agreement that puts the rights of American workers above everything else. Unfortunately, the Trump Administration originally proposed a trade agreement that would have continued with the status quo. The American people needed a trade agreement that invests in American jobs and promotes stronger wages. Under the leadership of Speaker Pelosi and along with House and Senate Democrats, I fought for significant changes to the USMCA that would enshrine the rights of American workers, enforcement of labor standards in Mexico, raising the environmental standards, and protecting access to affordable medicines into the agreement. But let me be clear, the road to the restoration of the rights of American workers is a long one. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://slotkin.house.gov/media/press-releases/slotkin-statement-passage-usmca-trade-agreement,Slotkin Statement on Passage of the USMCA Trade Agreement,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,slotkin.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON -- U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-08) released the following statement following the bipartisan passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). USMCA is a free trade agreement negotiated between the United States, Canada, and Mexico to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which entered into force in 1994 and has had a detrimental impact on jobs and the economy in Michigan. Since being sworn in, Slotkin has met with countless stakeholders, including labor leaders, workers, agricultural industry leaders, small businesses, and auto industry leaders to understand their concerns with NAFTA and USMCA. In the final weeks of negotiation, Slotkin met with multiple trade experts to take a deep dive on the final agreement and what it would do for Michigan workers and Michigan business. In June, Rep Slotkin joined 26 of her colleagues in calling on United States Trade Representative Ambassador Lighthizer and the Administration to work with House Democrats to improve the deal that was originally negotiated by the Administration. Because of these efforts, the final version of USMCA has addressed concerns regarding pharmaceuticalgive-aways, ineffective enforcement mechanisms, and weak labor and environmental provisions. While the USMCA is far from a perfect agreement, it is one that will, on net, benefit our economy, and I voted to pass it today,"" Slotkin said. ""The original draft negotiated by the Administration was flawed, and claims that it would return jobs to the United States by the thousands was strongly misleading. I'm proud that tough negotiations secured changes that labor leaders, workers, farmers, and small businesses in our district have been pushing for -- including removing a big give-away to pharmaceutical companies. In the meantime, the USMCA is an important step in the right direction for Michigan workers, and will give economic certainty that is critical to Michigan farmers and Michigan businesses. Of course, as with any deal, the effectiveness of USMCA will come down to the enforcement of the agreement a central failing of NAFTA. Throughout my career in national security, I negotiated many international agreements on tough national security issues and I know that a deal is only as good as our ability to enforce it. That's why it is my hope that the enforcement mechanisms laid out in USMCA will be tested early to demonstrate their effectiveness and deter future violations. To that end, I have encouraged Labor to use the new enforcement channels as soon as necessary. I have also called upon my colleagues to set up a committee that specifically tracks enforcement of the agreement.The Administration and the Congress should remain as focused on the fair and effective implementation of USMCA as they have been on its negotiation and passage. Slotkin pledged to continue working closely with workers and unions across the 8th Congressional district including autoworkers, communication workers, and the aerospace industry to address the offshoring of American jobs beyond this trade agreement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-applauds-house-passage-usmca,Rep. Stevens Applauds House Passage of USMCA,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement. “Today, I voted to pass the USMCA, a trade agreement that I worked to strengthen for our middle class and all of Michigan’s manufacturers,” said Congresswoman Stevens. “Trade with Canada and Mexico supports more than 36,000 jobs in Michigan’s 11th District, and more than $3.6 billion in goods and services from Michigan’s 11th District were exported to Canada and Mexico in 2017. This incredible, bipartisan compromise positions Michigan’s 11th District to compete globally and succeed. The agreement is much stronger today than it was when it was unveiled and I look forward to seeing USMCA become law.” Congresswoman Stevens was one of 14 House Democrats to push for a vote on the USMCA in July. As Co-President of the freshman class, Congresswoman Stevens convened a meeting between United States Trade Representative Ambassador Robert Lighthizer and freshman lawmakers. The USMCA has been endorsed by a broad coalition of labor unions and business organizations including the AFL-CIO, Teamsters, United Steelworkers, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Manufacturers. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-statement-5th-circuit-aca-ruling,Rep. Stevens Statement on 5th Circuit ACA Ruling,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) released the following statement after the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling last night striking down part of the Affordable Care Act, and leaving the remainder of the law in limbo. “This decision leaves Michigan families and those with preexisting conditions in the lurch, as the Trump Administration gets one step closer to repealing the entire Affordable Care Act and jeopardizing healthcare for millions of Americans,” said Congresswoman Stevens. “I have spent this year fighting to expand access to affordable and quality healthcare, passing legislation in the House to intervene in this lawsuit, protect people with pre-existing conditions, and lower prescription drug costs for my constituents. I intend to continue this work in the coming year, regardless of repeated attempts from the Trump Administration to undermine our health law, a catastrophic outcome that will kick millions of people off their insurance coverage, strip away protections for people with pre-existing conditions, and raise costs for Michigan families.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-efforts-to-preserve-great-lakes-lower-prescription-drug-costs-for-michiganders-heads-to-presidents-desk-to-be-signed-into-law,"Peters Efforts to Preserve Great Lakes, Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Michiganders Heads to President’s Desk To Be Signed Into Law",2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.19 Peters Efforts to Preserve Great Lakes, Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Michiganders Heads to President's Desk To Be Signed Into Law Measures Peters Led and Supported in Final Government Funding Bill Include Increased Great Lakes Funding, Expanded Resources for Fisheries Programs, and Lower Prescription Drug Costs WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today applauded Senate passage of legislation that includes provisions he led and supported to strengthen Great Lakes protection, restoration and fisheries programs, and to lower prescription drug costs for Michiganders. The legislation funds the government for Fiscal Year 2020, and now goes to President Trump's desk to be signed into law. Peters, a member of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, said of the Great Lakes provisions: The Great Lakes are part of who we are as Michiganders. They provide drinking water to 40 million people, are an economic engine for communities across Michigan and are a vital national resource. That's why we need to do everything we can to protect the Great Lakes for future generations. I'm glad this bill will go to the President's desk and includes key provisions I led that will increase critical funding for Great Lakes clean-up and restoration, sustain Michigan fisheries and help pave the way for a new icebreaker. Peters said of the provisions to lower prescription drug costs: When drug companies manipulate prices and availability of medicine to boost their bottom lines, it can force hardworking Michiganders to have to choose between securing the medication they need or paying their bills. That must change. I am encouraged that the bipartisan measures I cosponsored that were passed will help lower prescription drug costs including for insulin and increase market competition. I will keep working on commonsense efforts that will reduce prescription drug costs for Michiganders. A number of provisions that Peters led or supported in the final bill to support the Great Lakes include: Increasing Funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: Peters secured a provision to provide the first increase in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funding since the program was established nearly a decade ago. As a result of Peters' bipartisan efforts with Senator Rob Portman (R-OH), GLRI will receive $320 million in the coming year.This is significant especially after President Trump proposed slashing the program by 90% earlier this year. The provision Peters secured in this end-of-year legislation builds on his bipartisan measure that passed the Senate unanimously in October. Expanding Resources for Great Lakes Fisheries Programs: The bill includes Peters' bipartisan legislation introduced with U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-OH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) to authorize Great Lakes fishery funding and help support effective fishery management decisions. The Great Lakes Fishery Research Authorization (GLFRA) Act will enable the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to continue to conduct research to help support the over the $7 billion Great Lakes sport and commercial fishery industries. It also will authorize the Great Lakes Science Center which helps sustain Great Lakes fisheries and reduce threats such as invasive species and harmful algal blooms. This bill authorizes $15 million each year from Fiscal Years 2020-2024 and gives the USGS Director greater authority to devote money to the Great Lakes. Funding the Great Lakes Center of Expertise for Freshwater Oil Spill Research and Response: Peters secured $1.5 million in funding for the U.S. Coast Guard National Center of Expertise for the Great Lakes. Last year Peters got signed into law his provision to establish the Center. The Great Lakes National Center of Expertise will examine the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and help develop effective responses. Current oil spill response technologies are primarily designed for saltwater environments.The funding included in the bill will help the Coast Guard plan for and establish the Center. Improving Icebreaking Capacity for the Great Lakes: Peters secured $4 million to enable the Coast Guard to establish a major acquisition office to enhance icebreaking capacity for the Great Lakes and provide annual program support. The Coast Guard must have greater capability to carry out icebreaking assignments on the Great Lakes during winters with severe ice coverage to enable maritime commerce and assist with potential emergency responses. The provisions Peters supported in the final bill to help lower prescription drug costs include: Combating Anticompetitive Business Practices: Legislation Peters cosponsored is included in the final bill that will help combat anticompetitive practices used by some pharmaceutical and biologic companies to block lower cost generic drugs from entering the marketplace. The Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act would help encourage greater competition and help lower costs for consumers. Increasing Access to Affordable Insulin: Peters cosponsored bipartisan language that is included in the final bill to speed up approvals of lower-cost and generic insulin prices and help lower costs of the life-saving drug. The Affordable Insulin Approvals Now Act would create a faster path for U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and would help promote competition and bring lower-cost generics to market sooner. With an over 600 percent price increase over the past two decades, unaffordable insulin has impacted nearly 7.5 million Americansincluding Michiganders with diabetes, who depend on daily insulin treatments to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-expand-federal-contracting-opportunities-for-small-businesses,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Federal Contracting Opportunities for Small Businesses,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.19 Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Federal Contracting Opportunities for Small Businesses WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, announced today he has introduced bipartisan legislation to expand opportunities for small businesses to contract with the federal government. Federal contracts can provide significant opportunities for small businesses, but some agencies have been reluctant to utilize the Small Business Administration's (SBA) contracting programs. ThePromoting Rigorous and Innovative Cost Efficiencies for Federal Procurement and Acquisitions Act of 2019(PRICE Act)seeks to resolve this issue by requiring the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to work with federal acquisition administrators to share innovative best practices that will help modernize contracting procedures, realize cost savings for taxpayers, and ensure small businesses have a seat at the table in federal contracting.Peters was joined in introducing the bill by U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA). Small businesses are the backbone of our national economy, but many struggle to take advantage of federal procurement opportunities because government agencies are reluctant to include them in the contracting process,said Senator Peters.Small business owners don't want a leg up, they just want the chance to compete and succeed. This bipartisan bill would help to ensure that small businesses in Michigan and across the country have a fair shot at winning federal contracts and growing their businesses for years to come. Small businesses that want to compete in the federal marketplace often face hurdles to participating in government procurement. This is especially true for women-owned, veteran-owned, minority-owned, and disadvantaged small businesses. ThePRICE Actwould ensure that small businesses are front and center in the acquisition process by encouraging government entities to adopt new and innovative practices, increase small business participation in government contracting, modernize the federal acquisition process, and report on how to improve mission outcomes and save taxpayer money. The legislation is supported by a broad coalition of groups including the Small Business Majority, Association of Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (APTAC), GovEvolve, HUBZone Contractors National Council, Women Impacting Public Policy, and the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce. APTAC is proud to support the PRICE Act of 2019. APTAC believes in sharing best practices and the difference it can make for all concerned,said James Gerraughty, APTAC President.APTAC members frequently share their own best practices with each other, which lends itself to invaluable information gained from the experience of others. APTAC and its members applaud actions taken for the betterment of Government contractingfor our Government and the private sector. It's no secret that government procurement is often an important avenue for small business owners to grow their enterprises, but too many small firms struggle to compete in this field,said John Arensmeyer, Chief Executive Officer ofSmall Business Majority.The PRICE Act will help ensure more small businesses can take part in procurement opportunities by requiring agencies to identify and share best practices in small business contracting. This is a common-sense solution to help ensure a more level playing field for small businesses in government procurement. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-security-provisions-included-in-year-end-funding-bill,Peters Security Provisions Included in Year-End Funding Bill,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.19 Peters Security Provisions Included in Year-End Funding Bill Peters Provisions Strengthen Border Security, Support Infrastructure at Gordie Howe & Blue Water Bridges and Protect Houses of Worship from Terrorist Attacks WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, announced that the year-end government funding bill includes several provisions he championed to secure the nation's borders, protect houses of worship from terrorist attacks, and facilitate efficient international commerce at Michigan's busy border crossings. Ensuring the safety and security of Michiganders is my top priority, and I was proud to help secure this critical funding to strengthen border security by hiring additional personnel, improve security at houses of worship, and facilitate safe and efficient trade and travel through Michigan's busy ports of entry,said Senator Peters.These resources will go a long way to help bolster security along Michigan's Northern border and safeguard Michigan communities. Several Peters-led security provisions were included in the year-end spending bill, including: Ensuring Secure, Efficient Trade and Travel at Michigan Border Crossings: Last month, Peterspressed appropriatorsto provide federal funding to promote secure and efficient trade and travel at Michigan's busiest border crossings. The final legislation included $15 million for inspection and screening systems at the Gordie Howe International Bridge in Detroit. The bill also includes funding for infrastructure projects at facilities across the country, such as the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron. Securing America's Ports of Entry: Peters led a bipartisan effort tostrengthen border securityby addressing staffing shortages at ports of entry across the country. The funding bill includes $84.4 million to close staffing gaps by hiring more than 650 new positions, including Customs and Border Protection officers. Protecting America's Domestic Food Supply and Agricultural Industry: This fall, the U.S. Senateunanimously passeda Peters-led bill to address the shortage of agricultural inspectors, support staff, and canine teams whoensure the safe and secure trade of agricultural goods across our nation's borders. Following Peters' efforts, the bill included $19.6 million to hire more than 150 agricultural inspectors at America's airports, seaports and land ports of entry. Increasing Security Resources for Houses of Worship: Petersled a bipartisan effortto ensure religious and cultural institutions have access to resources to help secure their facilities against potential terrorist attacks. At Peters'urgingthe funding bill included $90 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which can be used for target-hardening activities, personnel training, and other activities to help secure facilities from targeted violent attacks. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/senator-stabenow-statement-on-fifth-circuit-ruling-on-the-affordable-care-act,Senator Stabenow Statement on Fifth Circuit Ruling on the Affordable Care Act,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Stabenow Statement on Fifth Circuit Ruling on the Affordable Care Act Thursday, December 19, 2019 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Health Care Subcommittee, released the following statement after the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals released their ruling on the Affordable Care Act: The Fifth Circuit ruling on the Republican-led lawsuit puts the health care of millions of Americans at risk. The fight is not over. We cannot go back to the days where people with pre-existing conditions were discriminated against, lifetime caps for care forced families into bankruptcy, mental health care was not covered, and seniors paid even more for expensive prescription drugs. Republicans need to stop their cruel attacks on Americans' health care. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/stabenow-announces-job-training-and-great-lakes-funding-wins-for-michigan-in-federal-budget-bill,Stabenow Announces Job Training and Great Lakes Funding Wins for Michigan in Federal Budget Bill,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Stabenow Announces Job Training and Great Lakes Funding Wins for Michigan in Federal Budget Bill Thursday, December 19, 2019 U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today announced that the Fiscal Year 2020 budget bill will help Michigan's economy by expanding job training programs and protecting the Great Lakes. The U.S. Senate passed the year-end bill and it now heads to the President's desk to be signed. This budget bill has important wins that will help grow our economy in Michigan. I've heard from so many businesses who are ready to hire if they can find workers with the skills they need. This bill will increase investment in job training programs that help workers quickly gain skills for in demand jobs, said Senator Stabenow. For the first time in nearly a decade, this budget bill also increases funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. It also increases funding to modernize the Soo Locks, and to combat Asian carp and other invasive species. The bill invests $40 million in a new grant program to help community colleges create and improve training programs for in-demand industries, such as manufacturing, information technology, health care, energy, and others. In Michigan, a lack of skilled workers leaves many jobs unfilled. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, the skills gap will leave an estimated 2.4 million positions unfilled by 2028. Funds from this new program will provide workers opportunities in training program that lead to high-skilled, good-paying jobs. The bill increases funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative for the first time in nine yearsa seven percent increase to $320 million for next year. The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is critical to cleaning up the Great Lakes, beaches, and waterways, and fighting invasive species like Asian carp. The bill also invests $125 million into the Soo Locks modernization project and invests $25 million to combat Asian carp and other invasive species. ### Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andy-levin-statement-impeaching-president-donald-trump,Congressman Andy Levin Statement on Impeaching President Donald Trump,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Andy Levin,L000592,andylevin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Ahead of voting for both articles of impeachment this evening, Congressman Andy Levin (MI-09), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement: When I think of myself as an American, patriotic feelings swell up in me. There are many reasons I love America. Chief among them is our democracy, which has allowed a wondrously diverse population to come together to pursue the common good. This democracy has survived 230 years, as we have strived to create a more perfect union, often taking two steps forward and one step back. But our experiment in democratic self-government is more fragile than it may appear. As Abraham Lincoln warned in his address at the Young Men's Lyceum in Springfield in 1838, it is more likely to be destroyed from within than bybeing overrun by foreign armies the greatest danger is failure to uphold the rule of law. Today, we proclaim that no person is above the law not even the President of the United States. Donald J. Trump abused the power of his office and violated his oath of office by exploiting a new and inexperienced president of a vulnerable foreign ally to dig up dirt on Mr. Trump's domestic political opponents. He then obstructed the Congress, this equal branch of our government, from undertaking our duty, outlined in the Constitution to investigate and check these violations. Today, we do nothing more and nothing less than fulfill our duty to our country and our Constitution. Mr. Trump has allowed foreign powers to interfere in our domestic affairs and endangered our national security and our democracy itself. For those reasons, we must impeach the President.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-kildee-s-remarks-support-articles-impeachment-against-president,Congressman Dan Kildees Remarks in Support of Articles of Impeachment Against President Donald J. Trump,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in support of two articles of impeachment against the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump. A transcript of his remarks, as delivered, are below: Thank you, Madame Speaker. This is a sad day, a somber day. The President has abused the powers of his office, betrayed the public trust and undermined America's national security by pressuring a foreign government to interfere in our elections for his own political gain. In this serious and solemn moment in our nation's history, the Constitution is clear: the remedy for such misconduct by a sitting president is impeachment. I did not come to Congress to impeach the President of the United States. But sadly, the President's misconduct has left us no choice. I have two grandchildren. My granddaughter Caitlin is eight and my grandson Colin is four. Someday, I know they will ask about the time a President thought he was above the law and what I did to stop him. I will have an answer for them. Today I vote to uphold our Constitution and impeach Donald Trump. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2029,"Dingell Leads Call to Extend, Re-designate Temporary Protected Status for Yemen",2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) led a group of House members in calling on the Trump Administration to urgently extend and re-designate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Yemen due to the ongoing armed conflict within the country. Action is required by the Department of Homeland Security before Yemen's TPS status expires on January 3, 2020. TPS, once designated, allows individuals from nations experiencing war, natural disasters, or extraordinary circumstances to live and work in the United States on a temporary basis. The status for Yemen was originally designated in 2015 and re-designated in 2017 and 2018 as the conflict and humanitarian crisis worsened. The war in Yemen has had drastic humanitarian and security consequences, and TPS is both deserved and warranted under law for these reasons. The outbreak of war, which was the main reason for TPS designation in September 2015, remains ongoing, with widespread violence throughout the country, the lawmakers wrote. Current TPS recipients from Yemen living in safely in the United States have contributed greatly to the social and economic welfare of our communities. Failing to extend TPS for Yemenis who have it and re-designate it for eligible individuals will put many men, women, children, and families in jeopardy and while undermining the security of the American homeland. During the designated period, eligible nationals of Yemen (and people without nationality who last habitually resided in Yemen) who are approved for TPS will not be removed from the United States. For more information about the application process and eligibility requirements, please visit https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/temporary-protected-status. Members of the community who need assistance should contact Dingell's Dearborn office at 313-278-2936. In addition to Dingell, the letter was signed by Reps. Ro Khanna (CA-17), Ted W. Lieu (CA-33), James P. McGovern (MA-2), Ral M. Grijalva (AZ-3), Ilhan Omar (MN-5), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-9), Jim Costa (CA-16), Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-6), David E. Price (NC-4), Rick Larsen (WA-2), Andr Carson (IN-7), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Peter Welch (VT), Juan Vargas (CA-51), Nydia M. Velzquez (NY-7), Gregory W. Meeks (NY-5), Joe Courtney (CT-2), Jan Schakowsky (IL-9), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Ted Deutch (FL-22), and Dina Titus (NV-1). The full letter can be read here or below: Dear Acting Secretary Wolf and Secretary Pompeo: Soon, this administration will decide the fate of nearly 1,200 Yemeni nationals who depend upon Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for their continued livelihood, safety, and survival as TPS for Yemen expires on March 3, 2020. We write to strongly urge you to both extend and re-designate TPS for Yemen through the timely publication of a federal register notice on or before the decision deadline on January 3, 2020. The war in Yemen has had drastic humanitarian and security consequences, and TPS is both deserved and warranted under law for these reasons. The outbreak of war, which was the main reason for TPS designation in September 2015,[1] remains ongoing, with widespread violence throughout the country. The United Nations and the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project recently reported that over 100,000 people died in the civil war, including over 20,000 killed in 2019 alone.[2] All parties involved in the war are indiscriminately targeting civilians and vital civilian infrastructure, including residences, medical centers, and transportation networks.[3] Moreover, the war's widespread destruction has caused the world's worst humanitarian crisis, an extraordinary and temporary condition that justified the extension and re-designation of TPS in 2018.[4] Over 24 million Yemenisroughly two-thirds of the populationneed some form of humanitarian assistance. At least 8.4 million are severely food insecure, and nearly every governorate in the country is at crisis levels for impending famine.[5] The civil war has caused 3.6 million Yemenis to be internally displaced, the majority of which have now been displaced for over one year.[6] Preventable diseases are rampant, with the international community recording almost 850,000 suspected cases of cholera, as well as the spread of diphtheria and measles across the country.[7] The case for extending TPS for the 18-month maximum allowed by the law, and re-designating TPS for eligible Yemenis, is statutorily clear. The armed conflict renders the safe return of roughly 1,200 Yemeni TPS holders in the United States unfeasible and inhumane. The humanitarian crisis represents a substantial, but temporary, disruption of living conditions for Yemenis, and the civil war and loss of territory and vital infrastructure continues to render the Yemeni government unable, temporarily, to handle adequately the return of Yemenis (8 U.S.C. 1254a). Extending and re-designating TPS for Yemen is also clearly in the interest of America's national security. Since March 2015, the United States has been involved in a regional military campaign in support of the internationally recognized government and seeks, for the stability of Yemen and its neighbors, a negotiated settlement to the conflict and an amelioration of its resulting humanitarian crisis. The sudden return of 1,200 Yemenis will not only further undermine the international humanitarian response in Yemen, but also undermine America's standing amongst our allies while empowering antagonistic states and non-state actors in the region contrary to our longstanding security interests. Current TPS recipients from Yemen living in safely in the United States have contributed greatly to the social and economic welfare of our communities. Failing to extend TPS for Yemenis who have it and re-designate it for eligible individuals will put many men, women, children, and families in jeopardy and while undermining the security of the American homeland. Sincerely, ### [1]Designation of the Republic of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status; USCIS Notice, 80 Fed. Reg. 53319 (September 3, 2015). [3] Yemen--World Report 2019, Human Rights Watch, https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2019/country-chapters/yemen. Human Rights Watch documented 90 unlawful coalition airstrikes, killing nearly 1,000 civilians, and targeting homes, markets, hospitals, schools, and mosques. Id. Cluster munitions and air bombardment strikes have also been deployed in the country. Id. [4] Extension and Redesignation of the Republic of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status; USCIS Notice, 83 FR 40307 (August 14, 2018).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2030,Dingell Unveils 2019 Holiday Jingle,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) continued a Dingell holiday tradition, releasing the 2019 edition of the annual Dingell Jingle, set to the tune of A Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire). Full text of the jingle can be read below. Democrats feeling the President's ire Impeachment causing too many woes Republicans all members of the Trump Choir The House is reflecting how the country goes. Everybody knows 400 passed House bills and how it goes The Senate should be doing it right But confirmations are all aglow And they just seem to want a good fight. Everybody also knows Medicare negotiated drugs Help to bring down prescription costs Next Generation fighting climate change To protect the planet for tomorrow They know the election is on its way It's loaded lots of surprises and conflicts along the way And every candidate is gonna say I'm the one who can take back the White House And so I'm offering this simple phrase To kids from one to ninety-two Although it's been said many times, many ways We are all Americans too. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/representative-lawrence-will-vote-favor-both-articles-impeachment,Representative Lawrence Will Vote in Favor of Both Articles of Impeachment Against President Donald Trump,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence (MI-14) will vote today in favor of both Articles of Impeachment (1) Abuse of Power and (2) Obstruction of Congress that will be put forth against President Donald Trump. The facts are conclusive, the President attempted to use the power of his office to force Ukraine to influence our 2020 election, said Congresswoman Lawrence. In the process, President Trump jeopardized our national security and withheld vital military assistance intended to prevent further Russian aggression in the region, added the Congresswoman. As a career public servant, Congresswoman Lawrence did not come to Congress to impeach a president but to assist the residents of Michigan's 14th District. It has been her goal to improve the lives and well-being of her constituents. While the impeachment investigations have been ongoing, House Democrats have passed monumental legislation that addresses the gun violence epidemic, lower prescription drug and health care costs, protects the environment and ensures access to voting rights for all Americans. However, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has refused to bring any of this legislation to the senate floor for a vote. Two hundred years ago, the Framers gathered at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia to chart a path forward for the newly-independent United States. After decades of rule under a monarchy, George Mason expressed concern about the possibility the new government would give an elected President too much power. After fierce debate, Mason asked two questions: Shall any man be above justice? Shall that man be above it who can commit the most extensive injustice? The answer, no, No one, including the President, is above the law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://slotkin.house.gov/media/press-releases/slotkin-statement-court-ruling-trump-administration-lawsuit-strike-down,Slotkin Statement on Court Ruling on Trump Administration Lawsuit to Strike down the Affordable Care Act,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,slotkin.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON -- U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-08) released the following statement following a federal appeals court decision on a lawsuit led by the Trump Administration and Republican elected officials, ruling that the individual mandate in the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional, and sending the case back to a district court to determine if the entire ACA should be overturned with this provision severed. Slotkin's mother passed away in 2011 of ovarian cancer after struggling for years to access care due to her pre-existing condition. Slotkin's experience with her mother was a primary motivation behind her run for Congress. As a new member, Slotkin has made lowering the cost of healthcare and prescription drugs a top priority. I know what it's like to have a loved one face a terminal diagnosis, and struggle to afford care just like so many Michiganders, Slotkin said. I am deeply disappointed to hear that an appeals court has struck down a key part of the Affordable Care Act in a ruling on the Trump Administration's lawsuit to eliminate the ACA in its entirety and take healthcare away from 720,000 Michiganders. We are not settled as a country on how we will provide healthcare to our people but I believe we have evolved as a nation to agree on fundamental principles: that everyone deserves access to healthcare they can afford, that you shouldn't be gouged just for having a pre-existing condition, and that if you get sick, you shouldn't go broke. The court's decision today takes us in the wrong direction. As the President prepares to address Michiganders at his rally tonight, I hope he explains why he is leading a legal offensive to take away life-saving coverage which would result in raising healthcare and prescription drug costs for people in our state, Slotkin added. If the Trump Administration's lawsuit is successful in overturning the Affordable Care Act: 720,000 Michiganders could lose coverage. According to the Urban Institute, 720,000 Michiganders would lose coverage by repealing the Affordable Care Act, leading to a 115 percent increase in the uninsured rate. 73,000 Michigan young adults with their parents' coverage could lose care. Because of the Affordable Care Act, millions of young adults are able to stay on their parents' care until age 26. 29,000 Michigan children could lose their coverage. Almost three million children nationwide gained coverage thanks to the ACA. If the law is overturned, many of these children will lose their insurance. 4,543,547 Michiganders could once again have to pay for preventive care. Because of the ACA, health plans must cover preventive services like flu shots, cancer screenings, contraception, and mammograms at no cost to consumers. This includes nearly 4,543,547 Michiganders, most of whom have employer coverage. Insurance companies could charge premium surcharges in the six figures. If the Trump Administration's lawsuit is successful, insurance companies would be able to charge people more because of a pre-existing condition. The healthcare repeal bill the House passed in 2017 had a similar provision, and an analysis by the Center for American Progress found that insurers could charge up to $4,270 more for asthma, $17,060 more for pregnancy, $26,180 more for rheumatoid arthritis and $140,510 more for metastatic cancer. Women could be charged more than men for the same coverage. Prior to the ACA, women were often charged premiums on the nongroup market of up to 50 percent higher than they charged men for the same coverage. People over the age of 50 could face a $3,357 age tax in Michigan. Insurance companies would be able to charge people over 50 more than younger people. The Affordable Care Act limited the amount older people could be charged to three times more than younger people. If insurers were to charge five times more, as was proposed in the Republican repeal bills, that would add an average age tax of $4,124 for a 60-year-old in the individual market, including 3,357 in Michigan, according to the AARP. 219,996 Michiganders in the Marketplaces would pay more for coverage. If the Trump Administration's lawsuit is successful, consumers would no longer have access to tax credits that help them pay their marketplace premiums, meaning roughly nine million people who receive these tax credits to pay for coverage will have to pay more, including 219,996 in Michigan. 203,864 Michigan seniors could have to pay more for prescription drugs. If the Trump Administration's lawsuit is successful, seniors could have to pay more for prescription drugs because the Medicare donut hole would be reopened. From 2010 to 2016, More than 11.8 million Medicare beneficiaries have received discounts over $26.8 billion on prescription drugs an average of $2,272 per beneficiary, according to a January 2017 CMS report. In Michigan, 203,864 seniors each saved an average of $1,307.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://tlaib.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-rashida-tlaib-statement-vote-impeach-president-donald-trump,Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib Statement on Vote to Impeach President Donald Trump,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Rashida Tlaib,T000481,tlaib.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-13) released the following statement regarding the House of Representatives' vote to impeach President Donald Trump: The first people I spoke to this morning before coming to the historic debate and vote to impeach President Trump were my two sons. Both are at the center of why I fight so hard to tell the truth and protect our democracy. That the House voted to hold him accountable for his blatant abuse of power and obstruction of Congress sends a resounding message that we are a nation of laws and no one, not even the President, is above them. A sense of duty drives me to push back against any form of corruption within our government, especially within the office of the most powerful position in the world. We can't look away from the crimes he has committed, because if we do, it will set a dangerous precedent that endangers our democracy. This isand always has beenabout protecting the future of our nation and our democracy from corruption, abuse of power, criminal coverups, and bribery for generations to come. It was my honor to vote yes today because my two sons, their children, and their children's children will look back on this time as one where justice prevailed in the people's House. I sincerely hope my Senate colleagues are motivated by the pursuit of justice and share the sense of duty to country and democracy that motivated the House to act today. In the meantime, I will continue to shine a light on the ongoing racist abuses of power of this President and fight back against the heartless administration carrying out his dangerous agenda. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://tlaib.house.gov/media/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-demand-hud-review-facial-recognition-technology-use-federally,"Wyden, Colleagues Demand HUD Review Facial Recognition Technology Use in Federally Assisted Housing",2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Rashida Tlaib,T000481,tlaib.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, Cory Booker, D-N.J., Edward Markey, D-Mass., and Kamala D. Harris, D-Calif.,and U.S. Representatives Yvette D. Clarke, D-N.Y., Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., and Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., today asked the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to review policies regarding the use of facial recognition technologies in federally assisted housing. In a letter to HUD Secretary Ben Carson, the legislators pointed out the threats that facial recognition technology poses to marginalized communities, opening the door to unchecked government surveillance. [HUD] is responsible for creating and ensuring discrimination-free practices in all communities, the legislators wrote. However, as numerous civil rights experts have pointed out, when public housing and federally assisted property owners install facial recognition security camera systems, they could be used to enable invasive, unnecessary and harmful government surveillance of their residents. Those who cannot afford more do not deserve less in basic privacy and protections. They should not have to compromise their civil rights and liberties nor accept the condition of indiscriminate, sweeping government surveillance to find an affordable place to live. Experts have also noted inaccuracies in facial recognition technology that disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, specifically women, transgender individuals and people of color. The legislators continued, These false and biased judgments can exacerbate the vulnerabilities that marginalized groups already face in life, such as the overcriminalization of people of color and transgender individuals. Potential sharing of this data, particularly with law enforcement, further heightens concerns about the risk this technology poses to vulnerable communities. The legislators requested a response from HUD by January 24, 2020. In July 2018, Wyden and Booker questioned federal law-enforcement agencies on their use of facial recognition technology. A full copy of today's letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-federal-appeals-court-ruling-regarding-health-care-law,Peters Statement on Federal Appeals Court Ruling Regarding Health Care Law,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.19 Peters Statement on Federal Appeals Court Ruling Regarding Health Care Law Peters Opposes Trump Administration's Efforts to Undo Health Care Law, Raise Health Care Costs and Eliminate Protections for Millions of Michiganders with Preexisting Health Conditions WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today released the following statement on the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling in Texas v. United States regarding the health care law, which sent the case back to the U.S. District Court level: Let's be clear: the Trump Administration is determined to overturn the health care law and end protections for millions of Michiganders with preexisting health conditions, raise health care costs and return us to the days when insurance companies could impose annual and lifetime limits on coverage. I'm going to continue fighting to ensure Michiganders have access to affordable, accessible care and work to lower health care and prescription drug costs for families. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-house-impeachment-vote,Peters Statement on House Impeachment Vote,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.19 Peters Statement on House Impeachment Vote WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today released the following statement after the House voted to impeach President Trump: I swore an oath to defend the Constitution as an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve and when I became U.S. Senator and I will fulfill my constitutional responsibility in the Senate. Abuse of office and obstruction of Congress are very serious charges that deserve solemn consideration. We must have a fair and non-partisan process, and I will thoroughly evaluate the facts that are presented to the Senate. But let me be very clear, my focus on the people of Michigan will remain steadfast protecting people with preexisting health conditions and passing legislation to lower prescription drug costs; expanding vocational training programs so everyone has the skills needed for good-paying jobs; and advancing additional efforts to protect the Great Lakes and our drinking water. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/senator-stabenow-announces-support-for-usmca,Senator Stabenow Announces Support for USMCA,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Stabenow Announces Support for USMCA Wednesday, December 18, 2019 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow today released the following statement announcing her support for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). As a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, Stabenow worked closely with other Democratic leaders in the House and Senate to modify the agreement proposed by President Trump to include strong labor and trade protections that are good for Michigan. In Michigan, we make things and grow things. And, with any trade agreement, it is critical that we are exporting our products, not our jobs. Unfortunately, since NAFTA was signed, our country has lost too many good-paying manufacturing jobs to Mexico. No other state has felt the pain of those losses more than Michigan. NAFTA created a race to the bottom with jobs going to companies paying the lowest wages and countries with the lowest standard of living. And workers have had no way to change that. Almost two years ago when renegotiations began, the Trump Administration refused to include strong protections for Michigan workers. My Democratic colleagues and I held strong and secured changes in the agreement that now include strong enforcement tools. Without these strong provisions, this agreement would have just been NAFTA all over again with all of its flaws. As with any agreement, new enforcement tools are only effective if they are actually used. Even after passage of this agreement, I intend to continue my strong focus on tough trade enforcement in this country. This trade agreement is also important for Michigan farmers who need a level playing field and markets to sell their crops. This agreement will help open markets for Michigan's wheat, poultry, and dairy farmers. Enforcement tools in this agreement are also important for farmers. For example, I led the effort to open up Canadian markets to our Michigan milk producers. We secured new, hard-fought changes to end Canada's Class 7' milk pricing scheme that allowed Canada to manipulate the price of milk and lower demand for U.S. milk exports. But as with any improvement, we will have to monitor the implementation closely and take strong enforcement action when needed. It's also important to note what this agreement does not include. Republicans have refused to stop the loss of jobs to countries like Mexico and China by opposing the passage of my Bring Jobs Home Act. This act would close tax loopholes that reward companies that offshore American jobs and cut taxes for companies that bring jobs home. Republicans have also refused to address the growing pension crisis affecting so many workers in Michigan and across our country. Because of hard fought changes by Democrats that include strong trade enforcement tools that are good for Michigan, I intend to vote for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Going forward, I will continue to make sure these tools are used to protect American jobs. ### Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/senator-stabenow-statement-on-impeachment,Senator Stabenow Statement on Impeachment,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Stabenow Statement on Impeachment Wednesday, December 18, 2019 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow today released the following statement on House passage of the articles of impeachment. I approach the impeachment trial with great seriousness and a heavy heart. One of the hallmarks of my work as an elected official is my commitment to bring people together to solve problems. That's why it is so disheartening to watch as this impeachment debate intensifies the division between people in Michigan and across our country. The fact is, we are where we are because of the actions of President Trump. His behavior and abuse of power have forced the hand of everyone who cares deeply about our country, the truth, and the integrity of our democracy. It is my constitutional duty to thoughtfully consider the articles of impeachment, listen to the evidence, and make a decision that honors our nation's values and our fundamental belief that no one is above the law. That's what I intend to do. While this impeachment debate may have further divided the people of our state, I intend to continue to focus on the issues that bring us together like protecting our Great Lakes, lowering the cost of prescription drugs, and helping create good-paying jobs. While this impeachment trial moves forward in the Senate, I will not lose my focus on these important issues. ### Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/domestic-priorities-funding-bill-passes-house-levin-provisions-included,Domestic Priorities Funding Bill Passes House with Levin Provisions Included,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Andy Levin,L000592,andylevin.house.gov,,,legacy,"The House of Representatives today passed a package of spending bills that grants critical funding for domestic priorities and international assistance and prevents a government shutdown. Two provisions authored by Congressman Andy Levin, vice chair of the House Education and Labor Committee, were included in the package of bills. In March, Congressman Levin led a letter signed by 139 House Democrats requesting a funding increase to the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). An increase was included in the funding package passed today. Congressman Levin's other provision included in the package bars the United States from providing assistance to the Haitian armed forces. Congressman Levin made request for the provision based on the troubling human rights record of the current Haitian regime, the history of involvement in human rights abuses of the six men tapped to lead the revival of the FADH; and the absence of a rationale to reinstate an army in Haiti. Today, I was proud to vote for the domestic priorities and international assistance funding package that includes so many wins for Macomb and Oakland Counties, Rep. Levin said. The package includes my request to increase funding for CSFP, an essential nutrition assistance program for vulnerable seniors, and, for the first time in more than two decades, the House has allocated funding for gun violence research. The package also includes funding increases for some of my top priorities in Congress, including worker protection agencies and programs, life-saving medical research at the National Institutes of Health, Pell Grants that make college more accessible to low income families, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and a guarantee that those funds will be available in case of a government shutdown, increased funding for Registered Apprenticeship Programs, and more. Despite the many victories in the package, I wish there were more. I regret that my amendment to shift funds to the Department of Education watchdog agency was not included. Betsy DeVos has abandoned her duty to stand up for students and follow the law, and now more than ever, we must make sure our oversight agencies are fully equipped. There were also many important provisions included in the military spending package, like increased funding for research into the health effects of PFAS and PFOA exposure, a pay raise for federal employees, preservation of the 6-day postal service, and security assistance for Israel. However, the package allocates exorbitant funds for military spending and fails to place guard rails on the Department of Homeland Security, which has abused past funding with the intention of building the President's wasteful and ineffective border wall. As a Member of Congress, I am charged to be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars and a check on the Executive Branch. To meet those responsibilities, I voted against the military spending package. See below additional details on the domestic priorities and international assistance funding package. LABOR/HHS/EDUCATION $1.7 billion for Worker Protection Agencies, $48 million above the fiscal year 2019 enacted level and $21 million above the President's budget request. Within this amount, the bill includes $582 million for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, an increase of $24 million above the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. $96 million for the International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB), an increase of $10 million above the 2019 enacted level and $78 million above the President's budget request. The bill provides a total of $41.7 billion for NIH, an increase of $2.6 billion above the 2019 enacted level and $7.5 billion above the President's budget request. For the first time in more than 20 years, the bill includes funding $12.5 million to specifically support firearm injury and mortality prevention research. $6,345 for the maximum Pell Grant, an increase of $150 over the 2019 enacted level and the President's budget request. The increase will help the maximum award keep pace with inflation. AGRICULTURE Funding boost to Commodity Supplemental Food Program. The bill provides for $67.9 billion in required mandatory spending for SNAP. For the first time, SNAP reserve funds are available for three full years to provide certainty in case of a future shutdown. ENERGY AND WATER Army Corps of Engineers Provides $7.7 billion, an increase of $652 million above the fiscal year 2019 level and $2.7 billion above the budget request. INTERIOR AND ENVIRONMENT Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) The bill provides $495 million for LWCF, including $237 million for the federal program and $258 million for state programs. The total is $57 million above the fiscal year 2019 enacted level and $462 million above the President's budget request. $43 million in new funding at EPA and partner agencies for scientific and regulatory work and cleanup assistance for PFAS, needed to establish drinking water and land cleanup standards. This level of funding more than triples current spending levels for this work. MILITARY CONSTRUCTION AND VETERANS AFFAIRS BRAC/PFAS The agreement provides an additional $120 million to address legacy Navy BRAC issues and the PFAS issues at installations. STATE AND FOREIGN OPERATIONS Support for U.S. allies and partners, including Israel ($3.3 billion, fulfilling the MOU) and Ukraine ($448 million). Reverses the impact of the Administration's hiring freeze and restores State Department and USAID personnel to 2016 levels. The bill provides $75 million for security assistance programs for the West Bank and $75 million for the humanitarian and development needs of the Palestinian people in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Blocks funding to armed forces of Haiti. TRANSPORTATION AND HOUSING/URBAN DEVELOPMENT $290 million for the Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes, $11 million above the 2019 enacted level and equal to the President's budget request. This includes $50 million for the Healthy Homes Initiative, to address other health and safety hazards in the home, including carbon monoxide, asthma, mold, and radon. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/michigan-veteran-receive-tens-thousands-dollars-military-benefits-after-rep,Michigan Veteran to Receive Tens of Thousands of Dollars of Military Benefits After Rep. Kildee and Sen. Durbin Partner to Fix Bureaucratic Failure,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Flint-Native and Decorated Navy Veteran Will Receive G.I. Bill Benefits After Members of Congress Intervene in Case Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, along with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that a Flint-native and decorated Navy veteran, Retired Senior Chief Russell Dotson, will receive tens of thousands of dollars of G.I. Bill higher education benefits owed to his family after the U.S. Navy wrongly denied this assistance because of a bureaucratic paperwork mistake. The Acting Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Thomas Modly, has indicated to Congressman Kildee, Senator Durbin, and Retired Chief Dotson that the Navy will provide him with full reimbursement and allow him to transfer his military G.I. bill benefits to his daughter, Paige Dotson. These benefits, which Retired Chief Dotson earned after over 22 years of service, are worth tens of thousands of dollars and are intended to cover an entire college education. Earlier this month, Congressman Kildee and Senator Durbin, along with other members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, sent a letter to the Acting Secretary of the Navy regarding bureaucratic failures at the Department that resulted in Retired Senior Chief Russell Dotson being denied the military education benefits he earned. Both Kildee and Durbin also had telephone calls with the Acting Secretary of the Navy in recent days to discuss Retired Senior Chief Dotson's case. I am pleased that the U.S. Navy acted swiftly to fix Retired Senior Chief Dotson's case and make sure that his family receives the military benefits he earned, Congressman Kildee said. Retired Senior Chief Dotson served our country for 22 years and did everything right, yet because of a bureaucratic failure was denied his military education benefits. I commend the Acting Secretary of the Navy for acting quickly on this case, Congressman Kildee said. Mr. Dotson's GI Bill benefits were wrongly pulled from him because of an error by the Navy. Because of this, the Secretary of the Navy came to my office to tell me they were going to make this right for Mr. Dotson and his family. I'm glad there is a good ending to this that restores Mr. Dotson's hard-earned benefits, Senator Durbin said. Retired Senior Chief Dotson served 22 years in the U.S. Navy, in both active duty and the reserves. After being counseled by the Navy that he could transfer his G.I. Bill benefits to his daughter, Paige Dotson, Retired Senior Chief Dotson retired from the Navy. When his daughter began her university studies at DePaul University in Chicago, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) initially began paying her tuition and housing benefits as a part of the G.I. Bill, only later to rescind the G.I. Bill after it determined the Navy miscalculated Dotson's transfer eligibility date by days. In addition, the VA demanded that the Dotson family repay more than $20,000 in benefits, including interest, resulting in further hardship for the family. Congressman Kildee's office is open for assisting constituents with help related to federal agencies. Since being elected to Congress, he has helped hundreds of constituents who believed they were being treated unfairly. If you need help resolving a problem with a federal agency, please contact Congressman Dan Kildee's office through his website,www.dankildee.house.gov, or by calling 810-238-8627. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-kildee-death-judge-anthony-j-mansour,Statement by Congressman Dan Kildee on the Death of Judge Anthony J. Mansour,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, issued the following statement after the death of former Genesee County Circuit Court Judge Anthony J. Mansour: Tony Mansour was a true friend, mentor and community leader. Born in Nazareth, Palestine, Tony's parents brought him to Flint, Michigan as a child. Tony loved the Flint community and dedicated his life to helping others, as an attorney, a community leader, and a Circuit Court judge. Throughout his life, Tony worked to improve our criminal justice system, ensure equal rights for all Americans, and find a peaceful solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Jennifer and I extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Mansour family during this difficult time. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2026,"Dingell Voting for Impeachment to Protect Constitution, National Security, Future of Democracy",2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) announced she will vote for both articles of impeachment by issuing the following statement: We are a divided nation, but we can never be divided on the rule of law. President Trump and his Administration took actions that threatened our national security, abused the power of the office, and undermined our elections. He put politics over country by asking a foreign government to investigate a political rival while threatening to withhold military aid. It is our moral responsibility to protect the Constitution, our national security, and our democracy. If we don't address this abuse of power, we abdicate our Constitutional and moral responsibility and we are condoning these actions for future administrations. I will vote for both articles of impeachment to protect our Constitution, our democratic republic, and the future of our country. Throughout this process I have heard passionately from both sides. I spent significant time studying, reading reports with attention to detail, and listening to constitutional scholars and other experienced experts. My vote comes from thoughtful consideration of the facts and a commitment to our Constitution. No member comes to Congress hoping to impeach the President. We come to improve the lives of Americans. We work to lower prescription drug prices, pass trade deals that level the playing field for hard-working men and women, protect the environment, and strengthen education. Working for the people of this great country has been and will continue to be my driving force in Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2027,Dingell Statement on Michigan Victories in Appropriations Agreement,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) released the following statement after the House passed an Appropriations Package for Fiscal Year 2020 to fund the government through September 2020: The House passed funding for critical programs that help hard-working men and women across Michigan and nationwide. Most importantly, this package keeps the government open through the remainder of the fiscal year, through September 2020, so Congress can focus on delivering on kitchen table issues that matter to everyone. Every time I am at the airport and I see our TSA workers I am reminded of the importance of providing stable funding for the federal government so the men and women who keep us safe every day can have a holiday season without worrying about a government shutdown. Many of the provisions I fought hard for will be included in this bipartisan appropriations package. The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and the Land and Water Conservation Fund are receiving the highest funding in 15 years. The full funding of these programs is critical to the environment, economy, and wildlife of the Great Lakes region we all know and love. In addition, continued investments in the Fisher House Foundation will assist veterans and military families have a warm, supportive place to stay when receiving care at VA facilities. I'm also pleased to see increased funding to combat the PFAS crisis. For the first time in more than 20 years, the CDC and NIH will receive $25 million for firearm injury and mortality prevention research. This type of research will help us better understand ways we can reverse the gun violence epidemic across the country. In addition, House Democrats secured billions to fund a fair, accurate 2020 Decennial census to ensure all Americans have a voice heard. House Democrats also secured $425 million to ensure your right to make your voice heard at the ballot box is protected from foreign interference. However, I must express my disappointment that the Butch Lewis Act was not included in the final legislation. The millions of Americans whose pensions are at risk after a lifetime of hard work do not deserve to wait any longer for assistance. We must get this critical legislation signed into law as soon as possible. Our values are judged by what programs our country funds to help hard-working men and women. This package was crafted by working in a bipartisan fashion and making thoughtful compromises to deliver on giving working families a fair shake, protecting the environment, and upholding our values as Americans. A summary of the National Security Appropriations minibus can be found here and a summary of the domestic priorities and international assistance minibus can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-representative-brenda-lawrence-votes-approve-2020-funding-packages,U.S. Representative Brenda Lawrence Votes to Approve 2020 Funding Packages,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Today, Congresswoman Brenda L. Lawrence (MI-14) released the following statement after voting to pass H.R.1158 and H.R.1865, the two funding measures for Fiscal-Year 2020: I want to applaud Chairwoman Lowey, and the leadership of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, for their tireless work in coming to an agreement on a funding package for Fiscal-Year 2020, said Rep. Lawrence. These bills will provide large increases to countless accounts that are crucial to my constituents, including Community Development Block Grants, BUILD infrastructure grants, and Violence Against Women grants. For the first time in decades, this compromise includes $25 million for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health to study gun violence, funding that is sorely needed to address this growing public health crisis. Across the board increases for domestic spending will help steer government funding in the right direction to reflect the priorities of the American people, Rep. Lawrence continued. As we soon begin consideration of Fiscal-Year 2021 funding measures, I will work tirelessly to build upon the Democratic priorities reflected in this compromise to ensure the government continues working in the best interests of my constituents and all Americans. Background Monday, House and Senate Appropriations Leaders filed two legislative packages, H.R. 1865 and H.R. 1158, that together address all 12 Fiscal-Year 2020 funding measures. Today, the House of Representatives passed both pieces of legislation with a bipartisan vote. The nearly $1.4 trillion bill ensures government agencies across the country have the funding necessary to implement programs that are important to the 14th Congressional District of Michigan. Several of the key provisions included in the funding measure are: Department of Agriculture- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program- $67.8 billion Army Corps of Engineers- New Soo Lock Construction- $75.3 million Department of Commerce- Census-related Funding- $7.6 billion Environmental Protection Agency- Lead Testing in Schools- $26 million Department of Health and Human Services- Maternal and Child Health- $943 million Department of Housing and Urban Development- Community Development Block Grants- $3.4 billion Department of the Interior- Fish and Aquatic Conservation- Asian Carp- $25 million Department of Justice- Community Oriented Policing Services- $343 million Department of Labor- Registered Apprenticeships- $175 million Department of Transportation- National Infrastructure Investments (TIGER or BUILD grants)- $1 billion",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-secures-funding-mi-11-priorities-house-passed-appropriations-0,Rep. Stevens Secures Funding for MI-11 Priorities in House-Passed Appropriations Package,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1865 and H.R. 1158, two minibus appropriations packages to fund the government through October 1st, 2020. The packages increase funding for key programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program, in addition to increasing funding for critical agencies like the National Science Foundation, National Institute of Standards and Technology, and National Institutes of Health. Also included is a historic $25 million investment in funding for gun violence prevention research, and Rep. Stevens’ amendment calling for a national strategy to ensure the long-term economic and environmental viability of local recycling programs. “H.R. 1865 and H.R. 1158 provide funding for programs that will strengthen southeast Michigan’s manufacturing economy, protect our treasured Great Lakes, and prepare our workforce to thrive in the 21st century economy,” said Congresswoman Stevens. “I am especially glad that the legislation provides for $25 million to research gun violence prevention, which I have been calling for since the first day I took office. This is the first major congressional effort to investigate gun violence in 20 years, and I am hopeful that it will lead to new solutions to protect our children from gun violence.” Rep. Stevens played a role in securing funding for several programs that are a priority for Michigan’s 11th District: Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: The GLRI is an inter-agency program designed to address the most significant problems in the Great Lakes, and works to protect, restore, and maintain the Great Lakes ecosystem. The Great Lakes are the source of drinking water for 40 million people, and hold 90 percent of our nation’s supply of fresh water. Jobs, recreation, and tourism in Michigan and the entire region depend upon a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem. Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program: The National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership program is a network of public-private partnerships in every state that gives small- and mid-sized manufacturers the services and resources they need to create well-paying manufacturing jobs and thrive in today’s economy. The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, which is the official representative of the MEP National Network in Michigan, is located in Michigan’s 11th Congressional District. Advanced Technical Education Program: The National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education program is one of the largest federal investments in two-year colleges. The program supports two-year community colleges to train technicians to work with next generation technologies. There are several active ATE grants in Michigan, including a program to study the use of collaborative robots in advanced manufacturing systems at Oakland Community College. The appropriations bills provide $43 million in new funding at the Environmental Protection Agency and partner agencies for scientific and regulatory work and cleanup assistance for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), more than tripling current spending levels for this work. The legislation also included Stevens’ previously House-passed amendment calling for improved enforcement of federal animal welfare crimes. A summary of the National Security Appropriations minibus can be found here and a summary of the domestic priorities and international assistance minibus can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-secures-funding-mi-11-priorities-house-passed-appropriations-1,Rep. Stevens Secures Funding for MI-11 Priorities in House-Passed Appropriations Package,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1865 and H.R. 1158, two minibus appropriations packages to fund the government through October 1st, 2020. The packages increase funding for key programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program, in addition to increasing funding for critical agencies like the National Science Foundation, National Institute of Standards and Technology, and National Institutes of Health. Also included is a historic $25 million investment in funding for gun violence prevention research, and Rep. Stevens' amendment calling for a national strategy to ensure the long-term economic and environmental viability of local recycling programs. H.R. 1865 and H.R. 1158 provide funding for programs that will strengthen southeast Michigan's manufacturing economy, protect our treasured Great Lakes, and prepare our workforce to thrive in the 21st century economy,said Congresswoman Stevens.I am especially glad that the legislation provides for $25 million to research gun violence prevention, which I have been calling for since the first day I took office. This is the first major congressional effort to investigate gun violence in 20 years, and I am hopeful that it will lead to new solutions to protect our children from gun violence. Rep. Stevens played a role in securing funding for several programs that are a priority for Michigan's 11th District: Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: The GLRI is an inter-agency program designed to address the most significant problems in the Great Lakes, and works to protect, restore, and maintain the Great Lakes ecosystem. The Great Lakes are the source of drinking water for 40 million people, and hold 90 percent of our nation's supply of fresh water. Jobs, recreation, and tourism in Michigan and the entire region depend upon a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem. Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program: The National Institute of Standards and Technology's Manufacturing Extension Partnership program is a network of public-private partnerships in every state that gives small- and mid-sized manufacturers the services and resources they need to create well-paying manufacturing jobs and thrive in today's economy. TheMichigan Manufacturing Technology Center, which is the official representative of the MEP National Network in Michigan, is located in Michigan's 11th Congressional District. Advanced Technical Education Program: The National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education program is one of the largest federal investments in two-year colleges. The program supports two-year community colleges to train technicians to work with next generation technologies. There are several active ATE grants in Michigan,including a program to study the use of collaborative robots in advanced manufacturing systemsat Oakland Community College. The appropriations bills provide $43 million in new funding at the Environmental Protection Agency and partner agencies for scientific and regulatory work and cleanup assistance for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), more than tripling current spending levels for this work. The legislation also included Stevens' previously House-passed amendment calling for improved enforcement of federal animal welfare crimes. A summary of the National Security Appropriations minibus can be found here and a summary of the domestic priorities and international assistance minibus can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-secures-funding-mi-11-priorities-house-passed-appropriations-2,Rep. Stevens Secures Funding for MI-11 Priorities in House-Passed Appropriations Package,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1865 and H.R. 1158, two minibus appropriations packages to fund the government through October 1st, 2020. The packages increase funding for key programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program, in addition to increasing funding for critical agencies like the National Science Foundation, National Institute of Standards and Technology, and National Institutes of Health. Also included is a historic $25 million investment in funding for gun violence prevention research, and Rep. Stevens' amendment calling for a national strategy to ensure the long-term economic and environmental viability of local recycling programs. H.R. 1865 and H.R. 1158 provide funding for programs that will strengthen southeast Michigan's manufacturing economy, protect our treasured Great Lakes, and prepare our workforce to thrive in the 21st century economy,said Congresswoman Stevens.I am especially glad that the legislation provides for $25 million to research gun violence prevention, which I have been calling for since the first day I took office. This is the first major congressional effort to investigate gun violence in 20 years, and I am hopeful that it will lead to new solutions to protect our children from gun violence. Rep. Stevens played a role in securing funding for several programs that are a priority for Michigan's 11th District: Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: The GLRI is an inter-agency program designed to address the most significant problems in the Great Lakes, and works to protect, restore, and maintain the Great Lakes ecosystem. The Great Lakes are the source of drinking water for 40 million people, and hold 90 percent of our nation's supply of fresh water. Jobs, recreation, and tourism in Michigan and the entire region depend upon a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem. Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program: The National Institute of Standards and Technology's Manufacturing Extension Partnership program is a network of public-private partnerships in every state that gives small- and mid-sized manufacturers the services and resources they need to create well-paying manufacturing jobs and thrive in today's economy. TheMichigan Manufacturing Technology Center, which is the official representative of the MEP National Network in Michigan, is located in Michigan's 11th Congressional District. Advanced Technical Education Program: The National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological Education program is one of the largest federal investments in two-year colleges. The program supports two-year community colleges to train technicians to work with next generation technologies. There are several active ATE grants in Michigan,including a program to study the use of collaborative robots in advanced manufacturing systemsat Oakland Community College. The appropriations bills provide $43 million in new funding at the Environmental Protection Agency and partner agencies for scientific and regulatory work and cleanup assistance for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), more than tripling current spending levels for this work. The legislation also included Stevens' previously House-passed amendment calling for improved enforcement of federal animal welfare crimes. A summary of the National Security Appropriations minibus can be found here and a summary of the domestic priorities and international assistance minibus can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-statement-articles-impeachment,Rep. Stevens Statement on Articles of Impeachment,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) released the following statement: “With an open mind and after careful review of the evidence unearthed by the impeachment inquiry, I intend to vote in favor of both articles of impeachment. It is clear that President Trump solicited interference from Ukraine in the 2020 United States presidential election and used the powers of his high office to pressure the government of Ukraine to comply. By asking for a political favor in exchange for vital military and security assistance that Congress had already appropriated, President Trump jeopardized our national security by leaving a strategic ally vulnerable to Russian aggression. These actions are a dangerous abuse of power, and they must not go unchecked. In addition, throughout the impeachment process the Trump Administration has defied lawful subpoenas and refused to cooperate with Congress which has led to the second article of impeachment, obstruction of Congress.” “The facts are clear that President Trump abused the powers of his high office and deliberately obstructed the congressional investigation into this abuse. I love our country and I am truly heartbroken that the President’s actions have led to this. I want my constituents to know that my desire to deliver for them has never been stronger and I will continue to work with all of my colleagues to deliver for Michigan families. Since the impeachment inquiry began in September, I have introduced and passed bipartisan bills focused on health care, manufacturing, and education, convened a bipartisan field hearing in Livonia to discuss the future of mobility in suburban communities, and launched a Task Force to address our plastic waste problem.” “Later this week, I intend to vote for the United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement, a strong bipartisan trade deal that will help Michigan businesses and protect Michigan’s best-in-class workforce. I will never stop fighting for the people of Southeast Michigan.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-senate-passes-final-national-defense-bill-with-peters-pfas-provisions-legislation-heads-to-presidents-desk,"After Senate Passes Final National Defense Bill With Peters’ PFAS Provisions, Legislation Heads to President’s Desk",2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.19 After Senate Passes Final National Defense Bill With Peters' PFAS Provisions, Legislation Heads to President's Desk Provisions Secured by Peters Phase Out Department of Defense's Use of Firefighting Foams Containing PFAS; Increase Coordination Between Pentagon and States; Improve Understanding of PFAS Through Advanced Computer Modeling WASHINGTON, DC The U.S. Senate today approved the final national defense bill that includes provisions U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) authored and cosponsored to address PFAS contamination in Michigan and across the country. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which sets policy for the Department of Defense, has been enacted into law for more than 55 consecutive years. Now that the bill has been passed by the Senate and the House, it goes to the President to be signed into law. This year's NDAA includes a number of provisions, including a 3.1 percent pay raise for servicemembers, an end to the Widow's Tax which will increase survivor's benefits for families of deceased servicemembers and bipartisan legislation Peters cosponsored to crack down on international manufacturers and traffickers of fentanyl. Michigan communities, families and our military are being harmed by PFAS contamination. Now that the Senate has passed provisions I authored to take steps to address exposure and help communities struggling with PFAS, I look forward to the President signing the national defense bill into law, said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. While this bill will allow us to make important progress, there is no question it does not go far enough and that more must be done. I will continue to push the Trump Administration to help clean up sites that have been contaminated and establish drinking water standards, and look for opportunities to address these issues in the Senate. A number of provisions that Peters led or supported passed the Senate including: Stopping the Use of PFAS Chemicals in Firefighting Foams: The bill prevents the Department of Defense from buying firefighting foam that contains PFAS after October 1, 2023 and from using these foams after October 1, 2024. The Senate unanimously passed Peters' resolution in September calling for the final defense bill to include similar provision. This builds on Peters' work in last year's annual defense bill that is now law, which urged the Department of Defense to develop fluorine-free firefighting foams. Preventing Use of PFAS-laden Firefighting Foams in Training Exercises: The bill directs the Secretary of Defense to prohibit the use of firefighting foams containing PFAS in military training exercises. Increasing Coordination on PFAS Remediation Efforts, Data Between the Department of Defense and States:Peters secured a provision that would encourage the Department of Defense to finalize cooperative agreements with states and partner with Governors to address, test, monitor, remove, or remediatePFAS contamination originating from Department of Defense activities, including at decommissioned military installations and National Guard facilities. If a cooperative agreement is not reached within one year of the request from a state, the Secretary of Defense must report to Congress explaining why. This measure is similar to bipartisan legislation thatPeters introduced with Senator Debbie Stabenow and other colleagues. The bill additionally requires the Department of Defense to share PFAS in water monitoring data with nearby municipalities. Developing New Technologies to Detect PFAS, Adding PFAS to the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory, Helping Farms Impacted by PFAS from Military Sites:The bill includes a provisions Peters supported that provides the US Geological Survey with more resources to develop new advanced technologies to detect PFAS and conduct nationwide sampling for PFAS in the environmentbased on the bipartisanPFAS Detection Actthat Peters reintroduced with Stabenow earlier this year; and adds PFAS to the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory, affording better transparency on when and where PFAS chemicals are created, used and disposed of. The bill also authorizes the U.S. Air Force to compensate agricultural lands contaminated by PFAS near military installations. As Ranking Member of the Senate's top oversight committee, Peters has led Congressional efforts to address PFAS contamination in Michigan and across the country. Most recently, Peters' bipartisan bill to help protect the health and safety of firefighters and emergency responders frequently exposed to PFAS advanced in the Senate. In April, Petersrequested informationfrom the Government Accountability Office (GAO) about ongoing federal efforts to address PFAS contamination as well as an evaluation of the financial cost of cleaning up contaminated sites around the country. Peters also introducedbipartisan legislationrequiring the EPA to declare PFAS as hazardous substances eligible for cleanup funds under the EPA Superfund law. Prior to that, Peters convened the first ever Senate hearing on PFAS to assess the federal role in contamination and clean-up, and additionally convened a field summit in Grand Rapids. Last year, Peters authored a provision that is now law to allow airports to transition away from using firefighting foams that contain PFAS. He also secured a provision that was enacted to encourage the Department of Defense to develop PFAS-free firefighting foams. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-announces-support-for-usmca-renegotiated-nafta-update,"Peters Announces Support for USMCA, Renegotiated NAFTA Update",2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.19 Peters Announces Support for USMCA, Renegotiated NAFTA Update WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today announced he will support the new United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the renegotiated North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA): I've long said that we need to renegotiate NAFTA to help level the playing field for Michigan. The USMCA is not perfect, but it is stronger than the initial deal the Administration announced and includes provisions I pushed for to strengthen enforcement and labor standards. When this bipartisan agreement comes before the Senate, I plan to vote for it because I believe it will make some progress for Michigan workers, businesses and farmers. Our work, though, is not over. Michiganders can count on me to ensure President Trump and future Administrations vigorously enforce USMCA and that we properly review it within six years to make sure it is working in our state's best interests. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-presses-devos-for-answers-on-program-that-wasted-over-500-million-in-taxpayer-money-on-failed-charter-schools,Peters Presses DeVos for Answers on Program that Wasted Over $500 Million in Taxpayer Money on Failed Charter Schools,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.19 Peters Presses DeVos for Answers on Program that Wasted Over $500 Million in Taxpayer Money on Failed Charter Schools 72 charter schools in Michigan never opened despite receiving $21 million in federal start-up funds WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, is pressing Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos for answers after arecent reportby the Network for Public Education (NPE) uncovered that more than $500 million in taxpayer funds went to charter schools that were closed or never even opened. According to the report, Michigan had the highest number of taxpayer-funded schools that never opened 112 defunct charter schools were awarded $21 million in grants, and 72 of these schools never opened. Rather than giving students choices, each charter school that closed or failed to open meant that communities missed out on more than half a billion dollars in resources that could have benefitted neighborhood schools,said Senator Peters.As Secretary of Education, I expect you to put students first and ensure that Michigan families' hard-earned tax dollars are being used appropriately. But, your Department's stunning lack of oversight of this charter school program has instead left students and their families worse off. Since 2006, the Department of Education Charter Schools Program (CSP) funded 1,800closed or never-opened charter schools across the countryat a cost of more than $500 million to taxpayers. A 2018 report by the Department of Education's Inspector General found that grants to charter schools were at serious risk of fraud or waste, and that Secretary DeVos had exercised little oversight of these costly programs as she championed opening more charter schools. This lack of oversight opens the door for bad actors to defraud taxpayers, including for-profit companies that manage charter schools. In Michigan, nearly 80% of charter schools are operated by for-profit companies. As Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters is focused on protecting taxpayer dollars from waste, fraud and abuse. Text of Senator Peters' letter is copied below and availablehere: December 17, 2019 The Honorable Betsy DeVos Secretary U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Ave, S.W. Washington, DC 20202 Dear Secretary DeVos: As Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, I am committed to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly and used for the public good. One of the most important investments that we make as Americans is to provide high-quality public education for our children. I write today to express outrage over recent reporting that the Department of Education Charter Schools Program (CSP) has disbursed over $500 million since 2006 to fund charter schools that were either closed or never opened, diverting critical resources away from public school students. A recent study conducted by the Network for Public Education (NPE) of data released by the Department found that the federal government funded nearly 1,800 closed or never-opened charter schools across the country. These defunct schools received about 4,800 grants at a cost of $504,517,391 to taxpayers. In Michigan, 112 defunct charter schools were awarded $21 million in grants, and 72 of these schools never opened. This data, produced by your Department, represents only a part of the costs incurred by Michiganders and other Americans. Rather than giving students choices, each charter school that closed or failed to open meant that communities missed out on more than half a billion dollars in resources that could have benefitted neighborhood schools. As Secretary of Education, I expect you to put students first and ensure that Michigan families' hard-earned tax dollars are being used appropriately. But, your Department's stunning lack of oversight of this charter school program has instead left students and their families worse off. Your Department's own Inspector General (IG) published a report last September on charter school grant making that found the risk of significant fraud, waste, and abuse of Federal programs funds is high because of your Department's lack of guidance and oversight of State Educational Agencies (SEAs).Rather than addressing the IG's concerns, your Department claimed that intervening in the school closures would be inconsistent with the Federal role in education, a view that the IG disagreed with. It is not difficult to imagine that bad actors would see the Department's willingness to turn a blind eye to anything resembling regulation of charter schools, while also handing out millions of no-strings-attached grants, as an opportunity. Because, while charter schools are legally non-profits, many are managed by for-profit companies. In Michigan, about 80% of charter schools operate in this way creating conditions for abuse by people more interested in defrauding taxpayers than educating our children. To help me understand the actions taken by the Department to address the serious problems uncovered by the NPE report and the IG audit, please provide answers to the following: The NPE found that of all CSP grants awarded from 2006 to 2015 to 43 states, 4,829 of those grants were used for 1,779 schools that are now closed or never opened. They calculate this to represent $504,517,391 in waste, fraud, or abuse. What is the Department doing to address this? According to the NPE report, nine states had greater than 50 percent sub-grantee failure, and many other states have more than a third of sub-grantee charter schools close or fail to open. What accountability measures, if any, has the Department implemented for SEAs or sub-grantees that utilize federal funds through the CSP? Please provide a list of all reporting requirements for SEAs or other grantees receiving support through the CSP. The IG audit report found numerous issues with oversight of the CSP grant program, including continued awards of grants to states and charter operators with poor performance records. What changes will the Department be making relating to its oversight of CSP grants and grantees? Please provide information on the efforts being taken. How will the Department ensure that federal grants are not improperly given to charter schools that, while nominally non-profit institutions, are managed by for-profit entities, that seem likely to take grants such as these for their own financial advantage rather than for the benefit of students? As this matter concerns the education and well-being of our nation's children and our public school system, I expect it will receive your undivided attention. I look forward to a prompt and thorough response. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-provisions-supporting-servicemembers-and-michigan-defense-sector-headed-to-presidents-desk-in-national-defense-bill,Peters Provisions Supporting Servicemembers and Michigan Defense Sector Headed to President’s Desk in National Defense Bill,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.19 Peters Provisions Supporting Servicemembers and Michigan Defense Sector Headed to President's Desk in National Defense Bill Peters Led and Supported Measures in National Defense Bill to Give Troops Largest Pay Raise in a Decade, Resolve Issue for Reservists and Guardsmen Accessing Benefits, Invest in Michigan's Defense Sector that Protect Our National Security WASHINGTON, DC The Senate today passed provisions led and supported by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) that will benefit servicemembers and their families as well as Michigan's defense sector that contribute to our national security as part of the national defense bill. The bill includes a 3.1 percent pay raise for servicemembers, an end to the Widow's Tax, bipartisan legislation Peters supported to crack down on international manufacturers and traffickers of fentanyl and a provision based on his legislation to help reserve component members including members of the Reserve and National Guard receive the benefits they have earned following their retirement or completion of service. It will also help improve efforts to address PFAS and authorize investments in infrastructure, advanced technology and important defense systems that protect U.S. security interests and our allies, including the State of Israel. The National Defense Authorization Act, which sets policy for the Department of Defense (DoD), now heads to the president's desk to be signed into law. The annual defense bill has been signed into law for over 55 straight years. Michigan's role in safeguarding our national security has never been more critical, and this bill supports our state's servicemembers and growing defense footprint, said Senator Peters, a member of the Armed Services Committee and a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. I'm proud that the Senate is sending this bipartisan bill to the President's desk that will give our servicemembers a much-deserved pay raise, help resolve an issue facing members of our National Guard and Reserve in accessing the benefits they've earnedand make critical investments in Michigan's defense sector that contribute to the safety of our servicemembers overseas and our safety here at home. We face a growing number of threats to our national and states security, and the National Defense Authorization Act provides much-needed certainty and direction to our military to provide the resources to build the readiness toface these challenges head-on,said Major General (Retired) Gregory J. Vadnais, Former Commanding General of the 38thInfantry Division and Former Adjutant General of the Michigan National Guard.Senator Peters' leadership on this legislation and on the Armed Services Committee wascritical and much appreciated. This bill gives our service membersa much deserved pay raise, supports our military installations in Michigan and positions our military to counter both current andfuture threats. I'm glad this bill has strong support and will support our Nations and Michigan's military priorities andsignificantly contributeto building the readiness of the total force toeffectivelydeal with a dangerous world. Michigan is the Arsenal of Democracy and we are happy to see several provisions in the FY20 National Defense Authorization Act that will continue to support our National Guardsmen, veterans, their families, and the industrial base within our state, said Scott L. Meyers, President, National Guard Association of Michigan. We are thankful for Senator Peters leading the effort to ensure all National Guard and Reservists receive a capstone document at the end of their service so they can receive the benefits they have earned. We are also thankful for his support giving a 3.1% pay raise to our service members, repealing the Widow's Tax, and supporting $30 million for the STARBASE program, investing in hands on STEM experiences for our future generations. Over 60% of Michigan defense contracts are awarded to the 650 defense companies that have a presence in Macomb County. That's why any push to strengthen Macomb County's defense footprint will mean more jobs and economic growth in the area,said Kelley Lovati, CEO of the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce. We are glad that Senator Peters was able to work in key provisions to boost Michigan and Macomb County. These efforts will continue to put Macomb County on the map as a hub for defense manufacturing for years to come. The following provisions Peters led or supported were included in the final bill: Supporting Our Troops and Their Families: Pay Raise for Troops: This bill includes 3.1% pay increase for all servicemembers that Peters supported. This is the largest increase in a decade. Repealing the Widow's Tax': The final bill would repeal the Military Widow's Tax,' ending a law that has penalized our nation's Gold Star families and had prevented them from receiving the full survivor benefits they have earned and deserve. Military widows and widowers who qualify for the VA's Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) are currently forced to take a dollar-for-dollar offset from the Survivors Benefit Plan benefit. Ensuring Servicemembers and Their Families Receive the Benefits They Have Earned: The final bill includes a provision based on Peters' bipartisan legislation he introduced to provide members of the National Guard and Reserves receive a record of service after their retirement or completion of service. This will be similar to a DD-214. The DD-214 form is often required by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and other private sector institutions to certify qualification for benefits. Currently, Reservists do not receive a separation document detailing their service and Guardsmen do not receive the same forms as Active Duty servicemembers after completion of service. This change will help ensure that members of the National Guard and Reserves have documentation to receive the benefits they have earned. Strengthening Coordination to Help Servicemembers Transitioning to Civilian Life: Peters sponsored a provision in the bill to improve coordination between the Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs and veterans services organizations to help servicemembers transitioning out of the military.The provision allows servicemembers to opt-in to provide contact information to veterans service organizations that provide resources to help veterans transition to civilian employment or receive the benefits they have earned. Increasing Resources for STARBASE Military Educational Program: Peters supported a measure that authorizes an additional $30 million in funding for the Science and Technology Academies Reinforcing Basic Aviation and Space Exploration (STARBASE) program. This highly successful program offers hands-on educational experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County was the original STARBASE and continues to operate one of the premiere programs in the country. Addressing Issues with Privatized Military Housing: Peters' provision will allow servicemembers to receive a report with all information regarding maintenance at a military housing unit for the previous 7 years before moving in. This will provide transparency as servicemembers decide on military housing for them and their families and aims to incentivize landlords to properly maintain housing units. The Senate Armed Services Committee has received testimony about horrendous conditions in certain privatized military housing units that have caused health issues, including from a servicemember originally from Michigan living at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Investing in Michigan Defense Interests and Advanced Technology: Authorizing Significant Investment in Michigan Military Construction Project: Peters secured an authorization of $24 million for a military construction project at the Detroit Arsenal in Warren, MI. If enacted this would mark the largest investment in a Michigan military construction project in nearly five years. The investment would help allow the Arsenal to upgradeits electrical substation, which will support the research and development of ground vehicle systems and growth that has occurred at the installation. Funding Stryker Vehicle Upgrades: Peters supported provisions providing additional support to the U.S. Army Stryker vehicle program. The Stryker is the Army's most versatile and deployable combat vehicle. The bill authorizes over $916 million to provide critically needed upgrades to the Army's Stryker vehicle fleet. The Stryker A1 configuration includes safety and survivability modifications, including greater mine resistance and improved mobility. General Dynamics Land Systems in Sterling Heights is the prime contractor for the Stryker armored vehicle and many Michigan companies serve as suppliers. Support for Ground Vehicle Sustainment: Recognizing that many of the Army's legacy vehicles rely on parts that are no longer in production or are difficult to procure, Peters supported a provision in the bill authorizing $4 million for the Ground Vehicle Systems Center in Warren, MI to invest in manufacturing research and manufacturing techniques, like 3-D printing, which can be used to produce these spare parts at a significant cost savings. Addressing PFAS Crisis: Increasing Coordination on PFAS Remediation Efforts Between DoD and States: Peters secured a provision that would encourage the Department of Defense to finalize cooperative agreements with states and partner with Governors to address, test, monitor, remove, or remediatePFAS contamination originating from DoD activities, including at decommissioned military installations and National Guard facilities. If a cooperative agreement is not reached within one year of the request from a state, the Secretary of Defense must report to Congress explaining why. This measure is similar to bipartisan legislation that Peters introduced with Senator Debbie Stabenow and other colleagues. Preventing DoD from Buying Firefighting Foams: The bill also prevents the Department of Defense from buying firefighting foam that contains PFAS after October 1, 2023 and from using such foams after October 1, 2024. This builds on Peters' work in last year's annual defense bill that is now law, which urged the Department of Defense to develop fluorine-free firefighting foams. Preventing Use of PFAS-laden Firefighting Foams in Training Exercises: The bill directs the Secretary of Defense to prohibit the use of firefighting foams containing PFAS in military training exercises. Investing in Missile Defense and Supporting U.S. Security Interests Investing in Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Research: Peters led a provision in the bill that authorizes a program for joint research and development with Israel on counter-unmanned aerial systems technology. A range of unmanned aerial systems from small, commercially available platforms to larger, armed aircraft pose a threat to both the United States and Israel. This cooperative research program will allow the United States military to benefit from Israel's expertise and experience in countering unmanned aerial systems. Funding Cooperative Missile Defense Programs with the State of Israel: The bill authorizes $500 million for cooperative missile defense programs with Israel, including the Iron Dome, Arrow, and David's Sling, consistent with the 2016 Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Government of Israel. Identifying Potential Locations for a Missile Defense Site: Peters supported a provision that requires the Department of Defense to publish a report on a potential future missile defense site. Fort Custer Training Center in Battle Creek, MI is one of three candidate sites that were evaluated. Designating Fort Custer as the preferred location for a missile defense site would serve to recognize the installation's strategic significance and the importance of Fort Custer for years to come. Other Provisions: Combating Fentanyl Trafficking: Peters supported a provision based on a bipartisan bill he cosponsored to crack down on international manufacturers and traffickers of fentanyl by helping curb the production and distribution of illicit synthetic opioids. These provisions would also pressure China to pursue legitimate enforcement of those regulations by directing the Administration to impose sanctions on Chinese drug manufacturers, trafficking organizations and any financial institutions that assist these entities. Investing in Defense Community Infrastructure Programs: Peters supported a provision in the bill that authorizes $75 million for the Defense Community Infrastructure Program. This program provides matching grants to state and local government projects that address critical infrastructure needs that impact military bases but are located off-base. State and local governments may apply for matching grants for infrastructure, utility, public safety, and services projects that will benefit a military base. Peters is the co-chair of the Senate Defense Communities Caucus, a bipartisan organization of senators committed to advancing issues important to defense communities. Defense communities in Michigan include those near Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Fort Custer Training Center, Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, the Battle Creek Air National Guard Base, and the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center. Identifying Potential Locations for a Missile Defense Site: Peters supported a provision that requires the Department of Defense to publish a report on a potential future missile defense site. Fort Custer Training Center in Battle Creek, MI is one of three candidate sites that were evaluated. Designating Fort Custer as the preferred location for a missile defense site would serve to recognize the installation's strategic significance and the importance of Fort Custer for years to come. Improving Resilience of Military Installations Vulnerable to Impacts of Severe Weather: The bill includes a provision Peters led that would authorize the Department of Defense to strengthen the resilience of installations vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Military bases whether in Florida or Nebraska for example have been devastated by severe weather this year pre-disaster mitigation efforts would help prevent damage and save federal taxpayers. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/senator-stabenows-bipartisan-bill-to-support-veterans-passes-senate-heads-to-presidents-desk,"Senator Stabenow’s Bipartisan Bill to Support Veterans Passes Senate, Heads to President’s Desk",2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Stabenow's Bipartisan Bill to Support Veterans Passes Senate, Heads to President's Desk Tuesday, December 17, 2019 The IMPROVE Transition for Service Members Act Will Help Veterans Transition from Military to Civilian Life WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, the Senate passed a bill authored by U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) to improve the transition from military to civilian life for veterans. This legislation is part of the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which now heads to the President's desk to be signed. This bipartisan legislation is called the IMPROVE Transition for Service Members Act and will reform the Defense Department's Transition Assistance Program. This program is charged with providing counseling, training, and assistance to service members who are leaving the military for civilian life. IMPROVE stands for Improving Preparation and Resources for Occupational, Vocational, and Education. One of the top issues I heard about when meeting with veterans, commanders, and service providers in roundtables across Michigan was the problems veterans have in transitioning back to civilian life. Many times, help is available and the veteran just doesn't know it exists, and local service providers have no way of contacting the veteran who has come home. This bipartisan legislation reforms this transition program to help make sure that veterans returning home get the help and support they need, said Senator Stabenow. The IMPROVE Act will allow service members to opt into a system that will send their contact information to their respective State Veterans Affairs Agency. This system will ensure that returning service members and their families are properly connected to local community groups including veterans' service organizations that can provide employment, healthcare, and other transition services. The bipartisan legislation directs the Department of Defense to ensure that service members receive regular information at different points in their military careers about professional development and education opportunities such as Military Tuition Assistance. The bill also creates greater accountability by requiring the Defense Department to ask veterans about their transition experience on a regular basis. Senator Stabenow previously introduced the IMPROVE Transition for Service Members Act on May 21, 2019. This legislation included in the NDAA will become law when signed by the President. The NDAA also includes a 3.1 percent pay raise for service members. ### Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/final-government-funding-bill-includes-peters-effort-to-increase-great-lakes-restoration-funding,Final Government Funding Bill Includes Peters Effort to Increase Great Lakes Restoration Funding,2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.19 Final Government Funding Bill Includes Peters Effort to Increase Great Lakes Restoration Funding Measure in Final Government Funding Bill Increases Funding to $320 Million; Based on Peters' Bipartisan Measure that Passed Senate in October WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today announced that the final government funding bill includes the provision he led to provide the first increase in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) Funding since the program was established nearly a decade ago. The additional $19 million for the GLRI for Fiscal Year 2020 was an increase from the proposed level of $301 million. The provision Peters secured in this end-of-year legislation builds on his bipartisan measure that passed the Senate in October. Following that successful effort, Peters continued pressing for additional GLRI funding. The Great Lakes are simply part of who we are as Michiganders, an economic engine for our state and one of our nation's most precious resources, said Senator Peters. After pushing hard, I'm proud to have secured increased funding to protect our Great Lakes for future generations. I look forward to this funding soon becoming law, which will allow for more resources to restore habitats, combat invasive species and clean up our waterways. The Great Lakes are an invaluable resource to Ohio, and GLRI has been a successful public-private partnership that helps protect both our environment and our economy,said Portman.The Great Lakes arecritical to Ohio's fishing industry,provide drinking water for 40 million people, contribute billions in tourism each year, and support hundreds of thousands of jobs across the region. I have long championed this program, thus I'm grateful that this bipartisan funding agreement includes $320 million for this important program. I will continue to help lead efforts intheU.S. Senate to protect funding for this critical bipartisan initiative. For high-resolution photos, click here. Since its inception in 2010, the GLRI has provided more than $762 million for 880 projects across Michigan. According to one recent study from the University of Michigan, every GLRI dollar spent from 2010 to 2016 will produce $3.35 in additional economic activity in the Great Lakes through 2036. It also found that every federal dollar will additionally generate $1.62 in economic activity in tourism-related industries through 2036. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-bipartisan-bill-to-establish-great-lakes-fisheries-program-authorization-included-in-government-funding-bill,"Peters, Stabenow Bipartisan Bill to Establish Great Lakes Fisheries Program Authorization Included in Government Funding Bill",2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.19 Peters, Stabenow Bipartisan Bill to Establish Great Lakes Fisheries Program Authorization Included in Government Funding Bill Measure Will Provide Funding for Great Lakes Conservation Programs, Research Efforts and Help Support Effective Fishery Management Decisions WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today announced that the final government funding bill will include their bipartisan legislation to authorize Great Lakes fishery funding and help support effective fishery management decisions. TheGreat Lakes Fishery Research Authorization (GLFRA) Act, which they led with Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), willenable the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to continue to conduct research to help support the over the $7 billion Great Lakes sport and commercial fishery industries. It also will authorize the Great Lakes Science Center which helps sustain Great Lakes fisheries and reduce threats such as invasive species and harmful algal blooms. Despite holding one-fifth of the world's fresh water supply, the Great Lakes science program does not receive the same level of funding authorization as science centers on the country's saltwater coasts, and this legislation will help decrease the resource gap between the Great Lakes Science Center and other fishery research centers across the nation. The Great Lakes are not just a precious natural resource they are critical to Michigan's long-term economic prosperity, said Senator Peters, member of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force. Our bipartisan effort will help provide top researchers the resources they need to keep the Great Lakes ecosystem vibrant for generations to come. I'm pleased our bill has been included as part the final government funding bill, and I'll be working to get this passed and signed into law. Great Lakes and waterways provide good paying jobs, boost our economy, and are a part of our way of life in Michigan, saidSenatorStabenow, Co-Chair of the Great Lakes Task Force.This bipartisan bill will invest in research on fish populations and invasive species, which is critical to protecting these important natural resources for future generations. The Great Lakes are an invaluable resource to Ohio, critically important to both our environment and our economy, said Senator Portman, co-chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force. By authorizing the USGS's Great Lakes Science Center for the first time, we are prioritizing the research on fish populations and invasive species used by the Great Lakes states as well as Canada to support the health and growth of our $7 billion fishing industry. The inclusion of this bill in the final FY 2020 bipartisan funding agreement will ensure we have the resources to help protect the Great Lakes for generations to come. This is a huge win for the 1.5 million people in jobs that are supported by the Great Lakes and the tens of millions of Americans who depend on them for drinking water, said Senator Duckworth. This provision will make important strides in ensuring critical research needed to protect the Great Lakes can continue. I commend Senators Peters, Portman, Stabenow and Duckworth for all they do to advance Great Lakes science and management, said Robert Lambe, executive secretary of the Canada-U.S Great Lakes Fishery Commission. The inclusion of the Great Lakes Fishery Research Authorization Act in the government funding bill brings Great Lakes fishery science into the 21st century. The bill enjoys widespread support because it promises to significantly improve our understanding of the Great Lakes and its $7 billion fishery. The Canada-U.S. Great Lakes Fishery Commission strongly supports this effort because science must be the foundation for the important management decisions we and our state and tribal partners make every day. The USGS Great Lakes Science Center is currently funded through the USGS's base appropriation with no sole source of funding of its own. The organization has required authorizing legislation and a dependable funding stream to conduct and modernize fishery research throughout the five Great Lakes to support effective fishery management decisions. This bill authorizes $15 million each year from Fiscal Years 2020-2024 and gives the USGS Director greater authority to devote money to the Great Lakes. Located in Ann Arbor, the Great Lakes Science Center maintains staff and field stations in five of the eight Great Lakes States, including Michigan, Ohio, New York, Indiana and Wisconsin. It owns and operates five large fishery research vessels and is the only agency that conducts lake-wide fisheries science assessments on each of the five Great Lakes. Their research has included advancing a suite of projects to support restoration efforts of native prey fish populations throughout the Great Lakes basin; leading world-class research on the most notable invasive species in the history of the Great Lakes: the parasitic sea lamprey; and helping to implement one of the largest freshwater telemetry fish-movement-tracking networks in the world. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-representative-brenda-lawrence-fulfills-promise-people-votes-pass,"U.S. Representative Brenda Lawrence Fulfills Promise for The People, Votes to Pass the Lower Drug Costs Now Act",2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence (MI-14) voted today to pass H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act. This measure is bold, transformative legislation that strengthens the health and financial security of America's seniors and families. It prevents Americans from paying more for their medicines than the amount big Pharma charges for the same drugs in other countries. For hard-working Americans in Michigan and across the country, the skyrocketing costs of prescription drugs remain a real crisis that threatens their health and financial security, said Congresswoman Lawrence. American seniors and families are being forced to make the unthinkable choice between filling a prescription and paying their bills. By passing H.R. 3, the Lower Drug Costs Now Act, House Democrats are keeping their promise to ensure all Americans have affordable access to medications. The Lower Drug Costs Now Act levels the playing field for American patients and taxpayers: Gives Medicare the power to negotiate directly with the drug companies; Makes the lower drug prices negotiated byMedicare available to Americanswith private insurance; Stops drug companies ripping off Americans while charging other countries less for the same drugs; Creates a new, $2,000 out-of-pocket limit on prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries; and Reinvests the hundreds of billions of dollars in savings in the most transformational improvement to Medicare since its creation, delivering vision, dental and hearing benefits and turbocharging the search for new cures. On behalf of the people of Michigan and all Americans, I am proud to join my colleagues to pass the Lower Drug Costs Now Act to deliver significant savings for patients, employers and taxpayers and make critical investments in both the largest expansion of Medicare benefits since Medicare's creation, as well as an expansion of lifesaving research for the groundbreaking cures of the future, continued Congresswoman Lawrence. With this historic step, House Democrats reaffirm our continued commitment to advance real progress that makes a difference for hard-working families. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://slotkin.house.gov/media/press-releases/slotkin-support-house-passes-landmark-prescription-drug-legislation-drive-down,"With Slotkin Support, House Passes Landmark Prescription Drug Legislation to Drive Down Costs",2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,slotkin.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON -- U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-08) voted to pass a landmark prescription drug bill today that would drive down the cost of prescription drugs by allowing the U.S. government to negotiate for lower prices on the most expensive drugs, ensuring Americans never pay more than the average of the cost of a drug in other countries like ours, and capping out of pocket costs for seniors. Slotkin's own Medicare Vision Act, which adds corrective vision coverage for Medicare beneficiaries, also passed as part of the bill, as did measures to include hearing and dental coverage. You can download footage of Slotkin's speech on the House floor here. Lowering prescription drug prices has been a top priority of Slotkin's since taking office. Slotkin founded constituent-led district advisory boards made up of seniors, patients, doctors, nurses, and healthcare experts to help inform legislation that best addresses 8th district residents' concerns, and has undertaken a district-wide Costs of Care tour to understand how the costs of prescription drugs and healthcare are affecting 8th district residents. For the last two years, the single most common issue that Michiganders raised with me is the price of prescription drugs and Michiganders, regardless of party, are demanding that Congress do something about it, Slotkin said in remarks on the House floor. Today we passed a bill, the Lowering Drug Costs Now Act, that will drive down the cost of the country's most expensive drugs by allowing our government to negotiate for the very best prices. There are over 800,000 Michiganders living with diabetes and common insulin medications can cost somewhere between $1,200 and $20,000 per year, Slotkin continued. This includes Sarah, a woman who lives in Holly, Michigan, where I live, who says she's being priced out of her life. Her monthly insulin costs are higher than her rent. This bill, if passed, would allow the government to negotiate to bring down the price of insulin to as little as $400 a year. H.R. 3 would save the U.S. government $500 billion -- much of which will be reinvested into cutting-edge research into life-saving cures, including $10 billion for the National Institutes of Health, which will be used to support research on the several thousands of rare diseases without a treatment, the Cancer Moonshot, the Regenerative Medicine Innovation Project, and more. The bill saves taxpayers $5 billion, which will be used to pay down the federal debt. Details on H.R. 3: Establishes a fair price drug negotiation program to reduce the cost of certain high-priced drugs, including insulin, without competition. Just like private parties negotiate to get the best possible deal, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) would be empowered to negotiate the price of up to 250 drugs per year, drawn from a refilling list of the most costly drugs in the U.S. that do not face competition. To ensure negotiations produce real price reductions, H.R. 3 ensures that Americans will never pay more than the average of what a negotiated drug costs in other countries. This would drive down the cost of common drugs in Michigan: 864,882 people in Michigan live with diabetes (9.8% of Michigan residents). For the most commonly used insulin medications, Michigan residents spend anywhere from $1,200 to $20,000 annually. Under H.R. 3, some commonly used insulins can cost as little as $400 per year. About 10.8% or 837,016 Michigan residents live with asthma. H.R. 3 can lower their total costs on most asthma drugs from about $1,400 to $270 per year. 27% of Michigan residents have arthritis, 30.5% of whom experience severe joint pain because of it. H.R. 3 can lower their total costs on most arthritis drugs from about $40,000 to $10,000 per year. Creates a new, $2,000 out-of-pocket limit on prescription drug costs, adding an important protection for Medicare beneficiaries. With the increasing number of high-cost specialty drugs, many beneficiaries find that just one medicine can cost thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, one-third of American adults report that they or a family member have not filled a prescription, rationed medication below their prescribed dose, or skipped doses altogether because they could not afford the full cost. Includes Slotkin's bill to provide comprehensive vision care as part of Medicare, as well as measures to include dental and hearing coverage for the first time. H.R. 3 adds new vision benefits to Medicare Part B that would cover routine eye exams, contact lens fitting services, and glasses or contact lenses once every two years. An estimated 20.5 million Medicare beneficiaries have vision problems, yet only 57% said they had received an eye examination during the previous year. Medicare does not provide vision coverage for 88% of beneficiaries in Michigan's Bolsters funding for biomedical research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) investing over $10 billion with the goal of accelerating the search for the next big scientific breakthrough. Invests $10 billion of direct funds toward the national opioid epidemic over the next five years.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-gillibrand-cortez-masto-announce-bill-to-help-workers-who-lose-their-jobs-to-automation,"Peters, Stabenow, Gillibrand, Cortez Masto Announce Bill to Help Workers Who Lose Their Jobs to Automation",2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.19 Peters, Stabenow, Gillibrand, Cortez Masto Announce Bill to Help Workers Who Lose Their Jobs to Automation WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI), Debbie Stabenow (MI), Kirsten Gillibrand (NY), and Catherine Cortez Masto (NV) today announced they introduced The TAA for Automation Act. Their legislation would support workers who lose their jobs due to automation through expanded access to Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) benefits, such as job training and reemployment services. Although the current TAA program provides important support to workers who lose their jobs due to trade, workers displaced due to technological changes and automation do not currently have any access to this necessary assistance. According to a Brookings Institute report released earlier this year, approximately 25% percent of all American jobs will experience high levels of risk to automation in the coming decades. As companies continue to integrate new technologies into their daily operations, we must ensure that these advancements help support and expand our workforce, said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. This legislation would help strengthen our economy by supporting workers displaced through no fault of their own and assisting them with developing the skillsets our businesses need to fill good-paying jobs across Michigan. Michigan's workforce is the best in the world. Because our state is so highly effected by trade, our workers need to know that training and resources are available for them when their jobs are displaced, said Senator Stabenow. I'm focused on making sure workers have good paying jobs, which includes providing them the opportunities and training they need for the jobs of the future. In the 21st century economy, automation threatens the jobs of New Yorkers and people across the country. Congress must do more to make sure that workers who lose their jobs due to automation land on their feet, said Senator Gillibrand. I'm proud to introduce the TAA for Automation Act, which would update the TAA program to protect workers who lost their jobs because of automation. Automation is increasing, and we have to be ready to respond when it threatens our workers and their livelihoods. I will do everything I can in the Senate to pass this bill into law, and I urge my colleagues to join me. Automation has the power to transform our economy, and it's already having an impact on industries like manufacturing, food service and transportation. Innovation like this is exciting, but we need to make sure that our nation's workers aren't left behind as technology advances, said Senator Cortez Masto. I'm proud to cosponsor the TAA for Automation Act to ensure workers in Nevada and across the country have the resources they need to stay competitive as automation plays a larger role in our economy. ""Automation is already disrupting work in America, and even bigger changes are on the horizon.Creating a robust federal program to help retrain and redeploy workers displaced by technology is an important step to take the future into our own hands. The TAA for Automation Act builds off what already works, expanding and improving it for the modern challenges workers face, said Andrew Stettner, Senior Fellow at The Century Foundation and author of the recent report, How to Respond to Job Losses from Technology, Trade, and Policy Choices. The legislation would also establish a workforce advisory board to provide recommendations to Department of Labor, Congress, and the public on addressing the impact of automation on the workforce, including matters related to jobs and occupations at-risk of elimination. The bill has also been endorsed by the UAW and the AFL-CIO. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andy-levin-announces-winner-congressional-app-challenge,Congressman Andy Levin Announces Winner of Congressional App Challenge,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Andy Levin,L000592,andylevin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Andy Levin, vice chair of the House Committee on Education and Labor, today announced the winner of the district-wide Congressional App Challenge hosted by the U.S. House of Representatives and the Internet Education Foundation (IEF). The Congressional App Challenge is a prestigious competition in student computer science, and the winner's mobile application will be on display in the United States Capitol. The 2019 winner is Jerry Xia from International Academy - Okma Campus in Bloomfield Township, who created an iPhone app called ICE (In Case of Emergency). The app was inspired by his experiences traveling overseas and realizing that different countries had different emergency numbers. The app allows users to create a profile and send location data to local emergency agencies. Whenever we talk about STEM, I want to make sure we are prioritizing and fostering creativity in young minds as well, Rep. Levin said. That's why I thought the Congressional App Challenge was such a unique opportunity. I'm overwhelmed by the response we saw from students across Macomb and Oakland Counties, and I look forward to visiting some of the top students' classrooms and holding this competition again in 2020. Kudos to everyone who entered the competition, and congratulations to Jerry on truly exemplary work. The other top submission were created in teams and individually by Jacquelyn Wrubel, Vanessa Francis, Teresa Lee; Nabil Mahdi, Landon Cereska, Aiden Doraci and James Neimann of Macomb Mathematics Science Technology Center in Warren and Vijay Daita from Bloomfield Hills High School.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andy-levin-votes-bring-down-prescription-drug-prices-house-passage,"Congressman Andy Levin Votes to Bring Down Prescription Drug Prices with House Passage of H.R.3, the Lower Drug Costs Now Act",2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Andy Levin,L000592,andylevin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Rep. Andy Levin voted to pass H.R.3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, which will help bring down the cost of prescription drugs and level the playing field for American patients who are paying more for their medicines than patients in other countries. This bill gives Medicare the power to negotiate directly with drug companies, and the lower prices negotiated by Medicare will be transparent so that private insurance companies can make the same prices available to their consumers. I stand here before you as a dad a dad like millions of other American dads and moms who just want to take care of our kids. Mary and I have two sons with Crohn's disease, Rep. Levin said at Speaker Pelosi's press conference today on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. When my son's doctor prescribed Humira, it was only because we had exceptional coverage that we were able to afford it. No normal American without coverage could afford it. Humira cost about $19,000 a year in 2012, and twice as much, more than $38,000 a year, in 2018. I spent nights worrying about what would have happened if we couldn't afford treatment. So many Americans are in that exact position right now, Rep. Levin continued. Will they buy groceries, or will they buy drugs? It's high time we deliver on this promise. Rep. Levin went on to say that health care is the number one issue his constituents in Macomb and Oakland counties bring to him. In Michigan's Ninth Congressional District, there are 113,037 people enrolled in a Medicare Part D plan and 520,339 people enrolled in private health insurance all of whom stand to benefit from H.R.3. The Lower Drug Costs Now Act finally levels the playing field for American patients and taxpayers: Gives Medicare the power to negotiate directly with the drug companies, and creates powerful new tools to force drug companies to the table to agree to real price reductions, while ensuring seniors never lose access to the prescriptions they need. Makes the lower drug prices negotiated by Medicare available to Americans with private insurance, not just Medicare beneficiaries. Stops drug companies ripping off Americans while charging other countries less for the same drugs, limiting the maximum price for any negotiated drug to be in line with the average price in countries like ours, where drug companies charge less for the same drugs and admit they still make a profit. Creates a new, $2,000 out-of-pocket limit on prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries, and reverses years of unfair price hikes above inflation across thousands of drugs in Medicare. Reinvests in the most transformational improvement to Medicare since its creation delivering vision, dental and hearing benefits and turbocharging the search for new cures. Click here for more information on the Lower Drug Costs Now Act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/houses-passes-kildee-bipartisan-bill-lower-prescription-drug-costs,Houses Passes Kildee Bipartisan Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Costs,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Millions of Michigan Families, Seniors Cannot Currently Afford Lifesaving Medications Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, today applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, which would help to lower the costs of prescription drugs for Michigan families and seniors by allowing Medicare to negotiate prices. Congressman Kildee was an original cosponsor of H.R. 3, which was supported today by Republicans and Democrats. The Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act would end the ban on Medicare negotiating directly with drug companies, forcing drug companies to reduce the price of prescription drugs that are sometimes up to ten times the price in the United States compared to other countries. By allowing Medicare to negotiate directly with drug companies, lower drug prices would be available to most Americans, including those with private insurance, not just Medicare beneficiaries. Michigan families and seniors are paying too much for prescription drugs, Congressman Kildee said. Right now, the United States pays by far the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs. My legislation would force drug companies to come to the table to negotiate drug prices to help drive down costs. In the richest country in the world, Americans shouldn't be forced to choose between putting a roof over their head, paying for food, or buying prescriptions they need. The passage of H.R. 3 today in the House is the latest action by the Democratic majority to make Congress work for the people. The House has sent Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) more than275 bipartisanbills that the Senate so far has refused to take up, including: H.R. 1, theFor the People Act, to expand voting rights for Americans, reduce the dominance of big money in politics, and ensure that public officials work for the people, not special interests. H.R. 8,Bipartisan Background Checks Act, long-overdue gun violence prevention legislation that requires background checks for gun sales and transfers to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and bad actors. H.R. 7, thePay Check Fairness Act,which strengthens and closes loopholes in existing law, including the 1963 Equal Pay Act, to help ensure that women and men get paid the same if they are doing the same work. H.J. Res 46, aprivileged resolutionto terminate President Trump's national emergency declaration to illegally fund his border wall on the U.S.-Mexico border. H.R. 1585, thereauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act,which seeks to end instances of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking by improving law enforcement response to violence and funding local programs to support victims. H.R. 1644,the Save the Internet Act,which restores net neutrality protections, ensuring that the internet is open to all Americans and free from interference. H.R. 9, theClimate Action Now Act,which requires the Trump Administration to remain in the Paris Climate Accord, a global effort to combat climate change and its impacts. H.R. 986, theProtecting Americans with Pre-Existing Conditions Act,which helps to protect families from predatory junk insurance plans that do not offer comprehensive health care coverage, including coverage for pre-existing conditions. H.R. 987, theStrengthening Health Care and Lowering Prescription Drug Costs Act,which would help to rein in the soaring costs of health care and prescription drugs. H.R. 5, theEquality Act,which would ensure that all Americansincluding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americanswould be protected from discrimination in employment, housing, credit, education, federally funded programs, and jury service. H.R. 1994, theSECURE Act,which makes it easier for workers to save for retirement and invests in apprenticeship programs that help people get the training and skills they need for high-wage jobs. H.R. 6, theAmerican Dream and Promise Act,which provides a path to lawful permanent resident status, and eventual citizenship, for DREAMers and those with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED). H.R. 2722, theSAFE Act,which strengthens America's election infrastructure and protects voters from potential hacking and manipulation of votes. H.R. 582, theRaise the Wage Act,which would increase the paychecks of all American workers by gradually increasing the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025. H.R. 397, theButch Lewis Act, which would protect the hard-earned retirement benefits of workers by boosting financially-troubled multiemployer pension plans, including the Central State Pension Fund that largely covers Michigan workers. H.R. 4863, the United States Export Finance Agency Act of 2019, which would help to grow Michigan's economy and create local jobs by reauthorizing the Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im), which supports 137 small businesses in Michigan that export $3 billion in products overseas. H.R. 4, the Voting Rights Advancement Act, which would combat voter suppression and restores the full strength of the Voting Rights Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-kildee-passage-ndaa,Statement by Congressman Dan Kildee on the Passage of the NDAA,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus and co-chair of the bipartisan PFAS Task Force, released the following statement regarding the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act: As the head of the bipartisan PFAS Task Force, I want to thank Chairman Smith for including many important provisions that I championed to protect our service members and their families from PFAS chemical contamination and lead exposure. I am disappointed that additional PFAS provisions, including those establishing a drinking water standard for PFAS and requiring corporate polluters to clean up contamination, were ultimately blocked by Senate Republicans. For this reason, I opposed the final passage of the National Defense Authorization Act. Regardless, I will continue to work with Republicans and Democrats on the bipartisan PFAS Task Force to ensure that all Americans are protected from PFAS chemicals. It is long past time that we get serious about cleaning up these chemicals in our communities to protect service members and communities like Oscoda. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2019,"Dingell, Tlaib Keep Pressing EPA on Closing Grosse Ile Station, Current Working Conditions",2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"DEARBORN, MI Today, Congresswomen Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) continued to express concerns about the closing of the Grosse Ile EPA station. After meeting with AFGE EPA employees recently, the lawmakers again expressed continued concerns with the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) closure of the station on Grosse Ile, as well as the health and safety of EPA employees who have been relocated. EPA workers dedicate their lives to the Agency's mission: to protect human health and environment,' wrote Dingell and Tlaib. The decision to move EPA employees from Large Lakes Research Station to Ann Arbor endangers that mission and every dedicated EPA employee's ability to do their job. The Agency must take immediate and meaningful steps to address intolerable working conditions and to provide the people of southeast Michigan, who are overburdened with exposure to environmental toxins, with the protection of their health and the environment that they deserve as taxpayers and citizens. The Large Lakes Research Station was the base of operations for EPA first responders in the region, housed personnel from the Criminal Investigation Division, and served as an important post for the Great Lakes National Program Office. With the closure and relocation of EPA employees, new challenges and issues have arisen, including the new working conditions for these employees, labor contracts, and what impact this will have on emergency preparedness and environmental protections. In June, the House accepted a measures by Dingell and Tlaib to the Interior Appropriations package that would prevent the EPA from closing the Large Lakes Research Station on Grosse Ile. Dingell's measure prevents the EPA from closing or relocating any office or facility that houses either emergency responders or a criminal investigation unit responsible for carrying out the agency's mission, such as the station on Grosse Ile. Tlaib's measure stops the EPA from closing offices in regions that have designated Sulfur Dioxide Nonattainment Areas. The Grosse Ile station manages the Sulfur Dioxide Nonattainment Area in Wayne County. A copy of Dingell and Tlaib's letter can be found here or below: Dear Administrator Wheeler: We are writing to express our continued concerns with the recent closure of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s Large Lakes Research Station (LLRS) Grosse Ile Office and the relocation of EPA staff to a portafab unit within the Ann Arbor National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory. After meeting recently with EPA employees, we would like to pass on important data collected and request answers to the questions below. EPA relocated staff from EPA's Superfund Division, including On-Scene Coordinators (OSCs) who provide rapid responses to environmental emergencies involving uncontrolled releases of hazardous and toxic substances, Special Agents of EPA Criminal Investigation Division, and the only Great Lakes National Program Office field location in the Great Lakes and within a Great Lakes Area of Concern.We have now learned that the Ann Arbor portafab office is proving to be an unsafe and unsatisfactory location for those EPA staff, and that the facts upon which EPA made the decision to move the office was mission-flawed and wasteful of taxpayer dollars. We believe that EPA offices must be sited and organized in a way that protects our health and the environment, and the EPA workers that work in them. It is clear that in EPA's recent relocation to Ann Arbor, the Agency has fallen far short of those goals. First, the LLRS was a crucial emergency response asset to Wayne County and the metro Detroit area, which has the greatest need for environmental protection in the State of Michigan39 percent of time critical removals occur within 25 miles of Grosse Ile.Only 9 percent occur that close to Ann Arbor.After the decision was made to close Grosse Ile, but before the new location was selected, EPA developed and submitted a Purchase Order Request (POR) outlining the mission requirements for any new office that might be selected by the Agency (see attached). The process envisioned the selection of a location within seven miles of Grosse Ile, the original office location. That process was canceled. Ann Arbor, which did not meet the requirements (42 miles away) was chosen. The EPA Office of Criminal Enforcement, Forensics, and Training Detroit Resident Office which needed quick access to the United States Attorney and the Federal Criminal Courts Building in downtown Detroit, now must travel many miles out of its way for court dates and attorney consultations. The EPA Superfund Division's mission, to provide quick responses to environmental emergencies involving uncontrolled releases of hazardous and toxic substances or oil into the environment, has already been compromised because the rapid response has been made slower by travel, traffic, and distance. EPA inexplicably chose to place the health and safety of EPA employees and the people of southeast Michigan at risk by moving this office far away from the highly populated and industrial Detroit metro area to a very small portafab unit inside of an emissions testing facility. Second, on top of that, there are outstanding concerns about the health and safety of the working conditions for staff sited at Ann Arbor. AFGE Local 704, the union that represents the employees working in the portafab unit, submitted comments to the Agency about the safety and air quality of the new portafab office space at the Ann Arbor National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory. There are still outstanding questions about how safe the air in the portafab unit is, or if the union will receive copies of the as-builts, ventilation surveys, and the second round of air sampling. Further, if there are no as-builts, did the taxpayers get what they paid for? How is air being vented through the building? Is the portafab office adequate for the Agency's mission? There is no room to add additional emergency response staff to the portafab unit, and one position was nearly lost until a staff member was assigned to work in the equipment cage permanently. Why was the portafab unit built, as there seems to be dozens of open cubicles in the GSA building that adjoins the Laboratory? The GSA building was designed for employee occupancy and would have involved much less of a build-out than placing staff in a testing warehouse. Further, over three months ago on July 8th, 2019, the Agency continued its unprecedented assault on federal employees' union rights by imposing a unilateral, management anti-worker directive (UMAD) in place of a negotiated collective bargaining agreement on the EPA employees working in the Ann Arbor Office and protecting the Great Lakes in Region 5. The UMAD violates the rights and protections that Congress specifically guaranteed to public-sector employees. By trampling over workers' union rights, the Agency is jeopardizing the mission of the EPA, the environment, and the public's health. Because EPA scientists' rights were revoked by the UMAD, AFGE EPA employees and union officers cannot react to health and safety issues in a timely manner. For example, EPA employees cannot talk to management about the air quality issues in the Ann Arbor Office because they cannot consult with their union officials or they need official time pre-approved. The UMAD strips employees of a meaningful grievance procedure, denying workers due process and eliminating EPA accountability. It evicts union representatives from office space, even though they are required by law to represent every EPA employee. The UMAD severely restricts the time union representatives can devote to union work, like meetings with employees and management to eliminate problems or obstacles in the workplace. The UMAD removed telework options and makes other work schedule changes that increase EPA's carbon footprint and hurt EPA employees who commute long distances because they can't afford to live close to their offices, like employees who were relocated to the Ann Arbor Office. EPA employees are unable to adjust their schedules so they can respond most appropriately to dangerous conditions in the field. The UMAD limits how and when an employee may clock in and out of work in response to environmental emergencies which may be fast moving and unpredictable. And the UMAD imposes all of these unfair work rules for seven years. EPA workers dedicate their lives to the Agency's mission: to protect human health and environment. The decision to move EPA employees from LLRS to Ann Arbor endangers that mission and every dedicated EPA employee's ability to do their job. The Agency must take immediate and meaningful steps to address intolerable working conditions and to provide the people of southeast Michigan, who are overburdened with exposure to environmental toxins, with the protection of their health and the environment that they deserve as taxpayers and citizens. Sincerely, Debbie Dingell Rashida Tlaib Member of Congress Member of Congress ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2021,Dingell Presses FCC Chairman on Jeopardizing Safety on Roads,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell pressed Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai on his proposed rulemaking allowing the 5.9 GHz band which had been reserved for vehicle communications technology to also be used for Wi-Fi use. Uncertainty about the future of this band has, for years, undercut the auto sector's ability to make investment decisions, Dingell wrote to FCC Chairman Pai. Recently you released a draft Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NRPM) for the 5.9 GHz band, which proposes to allocate a majority of the band to unlicensed WiFi while constricting the spectrum available to life-saving transportation safety applications. This proposal raises a number of questions and concerns for me and I would like to understand your rationale for this proposal. Currently, the 5.9 GHz band is used for vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications technology that keeps drivers and passengers safe by communicating to one another about road hazards. The auto industry and auto safety technology companies need certainty to know the innovation and developments they are working on will continue to work on that band without interference/crowding from other signals on the 5.9 GHz band. On November 20, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao wrote to Chairman Pai saying, Nonetheless, DOT has significant concerns with the Commission's proposal, which represents a major shift in the FCC's regulation of the 5.9 GHz Band and jeopardizes the significant transportation safety benefits that the allocation of this Band was meant to foster. In her letter, Dingell citied 120 applications from the Michigan Department of Transportation for licensure on the spectrum. The FCC has frequently argued that no one is using the 5.9 GHz band as rational for opening it for other uses. A copy of the letter is available here and below Chairman Pai, Recently you released a draft Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NRPM) for the 5.9 GHz band, which proposes to allocate a majority of the band to unlicensed WiFi while constricting the spectrum available to life-saving transportation safety applications. This proposal raises a number of questions and concerns for me and I would like to understand your rationale for this proposal. Uncertainty about the future of this band has, for years, undercut the auto sector's ability to make investment decisions. Other automakers are eager to make use of this spectrum but remain bound by existing rules. To that end, I am appreciative that the FCC has recognized the contribution that CV2X could make to automotive safety and the allocation of 20 MHz that you propose for it. We can all agree the band requires a fresh approach but one that is designed to unlock rather than hinder transportation safety applications that will benefit human health, safety, the environment and economy. A constant refrain from those who wish to have access to this band is that it remains fallow, or unused. You have echoed these sentiments in recent statements, as well as testimony before the Committee on Energy and Commerce. It is of great concern, therefore, to hear from my Governor's office, that the Michigan Department of Transportation has 120 applications for licensure for new technology that uses this spectrum pending before the FCC. I have also learned that Michigan is not the only state waiting on FCC action. There are approximately 500 such applications pending before the Commission just for the 5.9 spectrum. Department of Transportation Secretary Chao also wrote the Commission a letter in which she states that it is, the Department's view is that the NPRM, and the substantial shift in direction that it represents, is insufficiently grounded. She added it is DOT's view that the proposal should be withheld from public issuance. In light of the information about pending applications among other concerns with the draft proposal I appreciate her concerns. The FCC may believe WiFi innovation is more valuable to our nation than the $800 Billion in annual societal impacts from vehicle accidents and fatalities, as well the annual $140 billion cost of congestion. I, however, believe we should embrace and encourage, rather than constrain, the potential of automotive connectivity. To assist me in better understanding the approach that the FCC is potentially taking to reallocate the 5.9 GHz spectrum, please respond to the attached list of questions as soon as possible. I look forward to your prompt reply, Sincerely, Debbie Dingell Member of Congress DINGELL QUESTIONS FOR FCC CHAIRMAN PAI With regards to the 120 pending licensure applications from the State of Michigan that are waiting for FCC action, when did you receive these applications? Why has the FCC not acted on these applications? Do you intend to address these applications prior to moving forward with your NPRM? How many other applications for licensure of the 5.9GHz band of spectrum are currently pending at the FCC? When were these applications submitted? Why has the FCC not acted on these applications, to date? Prior to the existing pending applications, how long did it take for the FCC to review and approve applications for licensure of the 5.9 GHz band? In the draft NPRM there was no mention of potential harmful interference between unlicensed Wifi and transportation safety applications. Why did the draft NPRM make no mention or request comment on the potential for harmful interference? Did the FCC consider harmful interference between unlicensed WiFi and transportation safety applications in the proposed NPRM? Will you commit to preserving all 75 MHz for transportation safety purposes until the DOT and FCC complete technical analysis showing that there would be no harmful interference in the 5.9 GHz band? What studies or research did the FCC conduct into potential harmful interference before releasing the draft NPRM? Do you have confidence that unlicensed WiFi will not interfere with transportation safety applications without a guard band? If so, what research have you conducted to validate this conclusion? SAE has specified in its J2945.0 standard that at least 45 MHz and up to 80MHz are needed for current V2V, V2I and V2P communications. These spectrum amounts address typical and complex urban, suburban, rural scenarios. Why does the Commission believe that 30 MHz is sufficient spectrum for transportation applications in this country? Would the 20 MHz you even propose for CV2X be enough for its evolution to 5G in order to support a broader, more connected and autonomous mobility eco-system (not only vehicles, but bikes, scooters, pedestrians)? Around the world, nations are using the 5.9 GHz spectrum band for transportation safety applications. This is true in Europe, and more importantly in China. China is moving quickly to implement 5G and it is creating a pathway for 5G-enabled V2X technologies. Is the Commission concerned about China's aggressive posture on 5G and connected vehicle technologies? Does your proposal hinder the U.S. taking a global leadership position in innovation, connectivity and automation? ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2023,Dingell Votes in Favor of Legislation to Drastically Lower the Cost of Prescription Drugs,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) voted in favor of H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drugs Costs Now Act. This landmark legislation will give Medicare the power to negotiate directly with the drug companies to lower the cost of prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries and Michiganders with private insurance. Too many hardworking men and women face the terrifying high costs for prescription drugs and seniors don't have coverage for dental, vision, or hearing services, said Dingell. The House is delivering on the first step to lower prescription drug prices for the people. Since coming to Congress, I have led the fight to get Medicare to cover hearing aids and service. The eyes, ears, and teeth are just as much a part of healthcare. This bill invests savings from prescription drugs right back into expanding Medicare benefits to include dental, vision, and hearing. Making hearing aids more affordable has been a priority for Dingell since coming to Congress. The first bill she ever introduced was the Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act to cover hearing aids for beneficiaries. Similar legislation passed the Energy and Commerce Committee this fall. Right now, drug prices in the US are nearly four times higher than the combined average of 11 other similar countries, and Americans pay as much as 67 times more than consumers in other nations for prescription drugs. Through allowing Medicare to directly negotiate the cost of prescription drugs, H.R. 3 will save patients and seniors $120 billion, and reinvest have a trillion dollars in expanding Medicare benefits to cover dental, vision, and hearing services, programs to address the opioid crisis, and research for new cures and treatments. In Michigan Diabetes About 9.8% of Michigan 864,882 people - are living with diabetes. For the most commonly used insulin medications, Michigan residents spend anywhere from $1,200 to $20,000 annually. Under H.R. 3, Michigan residents could spend 3.5 times less on insulin. H.R. 3 can lower the average total cost of the insulin NovoLOG Flexpen by 76% from about $19,800 to $4,800 per year. Under H.R. 3, some commonly used insulins can cost as little as $400 per year. Arthritis - 27% of Michigan residents have arthritis, 30.5% of whom experience severe joint pain because of it. H.R. 3 can lower their total costs on most arthritis drugs from about $40,000 to $10,000 per year. Asthma About 10.8% or 310,955 Michigan residents live with asthma. H.R. 3 can lower their total costs on most asthma drugs from about $1,400 to $270 per year. HIV/AIDS In 2015, 777 Michigan residents were diagnosed with HIV. H.R. 3 can lower their total costs on most HIV drugs from about $15,000 to $6,000 per year. THE LOWER DRUG COSTS NOW ACT WOULD LOWER DRUGS COSTS AND EXPAND BENEFITS: The Lower Drug Costs Now Act would: Give Medicare the power to negotiate directly with the drug companies to bring down prices and create powerful new tools to force drug companies to the table to agree to real price reductions. Make the lower drug prices negotiated by Medicare available to Americans with private insurance too, not just those on Medicare. Stop drug companies ripping off Americans while charging other countries less for the same drugs by limiting the maximum price for any negotiated drug. Create a new $2,000 out-of-pocket limit on prescription drug costs for people on Medicare. Save taxpayers approximately $500 billion over the next ten years and reinvest that savings into: Expanding Medicare benefits to cover things like dental, vision and hearing, Combatting the addiction crisis, and Researching new cures and treatments. THE LOWER DRUG COSTS NOW ACT WOULD SAVE MONEY: Independent experts found the Lower Drug Costs Now Act would: Save American households $120 billion. Save private businesses more than $40 billion. Save taxpayers approximately $500 billion and reinvests that savings to expand benefits. Additional Background on the Lower Drug Costs Now Act can be found HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2024,Dingell Leads House Bill to Establish a National Climate Bank to Finance the Clean Economy Transition,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) introduced legislation establishing a National Climate Bank to publicly finance and stimulate private investment in clean, renewable energy and emissions reduction projects. The National Climate Bank will use public capital to stimulate private investment in a range of projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate the nation's clean economy transition across many sectors. It will be funded with $35 billion over six years, in an effort to mobilize up to $1 trillion in private investment. National Climate Bank capital and technical assistance will make more projects economically competitive in more communities nationwide, to the benefit of investors, energy consumers, workers, and local economies. To properly tackle climate change an aggressive agenda is required that addresses all fronts of the crisis. To get to a fully clean economy, we need comprehensive efforts to spur innovation in the economy, technology, and society. Establishing a National Climate Bank will serve as an important implementation tool to achieve this goal by publicly financing and stimulating private investments in clean, renewable energy projects, clean transportation, and support communities most effected by climate change, said Dingell. The National Climate Bank Act builds on the successful Green Bank example in Michigan, and mobilizes investment directly into the greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects most in need of capital. The expansion of these projects will create good jobs, a strong future workforce, and deliver a clean economy that works for communities in Michigan and across the country. The National Climate Bank Act of 2019 is cosponsored by Representatives Paul Tonko (D-NY), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), and Cindy Axne (D-IA). A Senate version of the bill was introduced by Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). Similar legislation, the Green Bank Act of 2019, was introduces by Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Representative Jim Himes (D-CT). A climate bank is a model for how the financial, government, and private sectors can work together to leverage investment in climate action, said Sen. Markey. Finding innovative ways to capture and accelerate the momentum of the green economy is the kind of American can-do' spirit that we will need to combat the climate crisis. This National Climate Bank would use public funding to drive private investment in projects that would cut our energy use and decrease carbon emissions. And it would scale and expand the reach of green banks in the United States that are already making a difference for the climate and our communities. The bill establishes a National Climate Bank as an independent non-profit capitalized with $35 billion of federal funds spread over a six-year period. The National Climate Bank will finance clean energy and emissions reductions projects across several sectors, as well as efforts focused on adaption and climate resiliency. It will use proven Green Bank techniques to leverage private co-investment and support a clean energy economy without raising consumer costs. Analysis by the Coalition for Green Capital has found that a National Climate Bank could mobilize up to $1 trillion in total investment. Key features of the National Climate Bank include: Mobilizing direct investment into clean energy and emissions reduction projects. This includes renewable power generation, clean transportation, electric vehicles, transmission, storage, efficiency, industrial decarbonization, and forestry. As an independent institution, the National Climate Bank will be able to actively seek out projects that will maximize both emissions reductions, consumer benefits, and local economic benefits. National Climate Bank capital and technical assistance will make more projects economically competitive in more areas, to the benefit of investors, energy consumers, workers, and local economies. Supporting environmental justice and quality job creation. The National Climate Bank will prioritize investments in frontline, rural, low-income, and environmental justice communities that face the harshest impacts of climate change and pollution. It will also aim to invest in communities economically affected by the transition away from fossil fuels and towards as clean economy to support job creation and economic development. To ensure good jobs for American workers, the bank will prioritize project labor agreements and ensure prevailing wages. Establishing new Green Banks where they don't exist. The National Climate Bank's techniques are informed by the successful track record of state and local Green Banks already operating across the United States. These institutions have strong ties to their communities and deep understanding of local markets, resulting in nearly $4 billion of investment. To expand this model to all communities, the National Climate Bank will provide technical assistance and start-up operating funds to launch new Green Banks across the country. Capitalizing state and local Green banks. The National Climate Bank will provide capital to existing and new state and local Green Banks to invest in small-scale and distributed energy projects where local context is key. These institutions have proven their ability to invest in underserved communities, helping to make clean energy affordable and accessible to all. These features make the National Climate Bank an integral part of a comprehensive policy approach to push the economy towards one that is clean, make the United States a leader in manufacturing and deploying clean technology, and secure and grow good jobs, while helping heed the call by the scientific and international communities to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. The National Climate Bank will ensure that this transition benefits all Americans by avoiding consumer cost impacts, investing in communities affected by the climate crisis, and accelerating the transition to a clean economy by mobilizing private capital. A summary of the National Climate Bank Act is available here, and the full bill text is available here. Congresswoman Dingelllike her husband before her has been a leader for years in the battle against climate change. Her introduction of this bill is a landmark event with historic significance for which I personally am thankful. The National Climate Bank takes a proven, successful model and scales it up to the level that's required to meaningfully battle climate change: trillions rather than billions of dollars, said Reed Hundt, CEO of the Coalition for Green Capital. As a member of the American Green Bank Consortium, Michigan Saves is proud to stand with CGC and with Congresswoman Dingell in support of the green bank approach. Michigan Saves has enabled more than $200 million in public and private investment, with the average household participating in a Michigan Saves program saving over $1,200 on their gas and electric bills, said Mary Templeton, President and CEO of Michigan Saves. Establishing a historic National Climate Bank presents a pivotal opportunity to invest in America's booming clean energy economy while simultaneously equitably investing in workers, and taking on the climate crisis. The Sierra Club applauds Congresswoman Dingell for her continued commitment to building an equitable American clean energy economy that supports workers, our communities, and climate action,"" said Michael Brune, Executive Director, Sierra Club. ""In recent years, state and city level climate banks have proven financially self-sustaining and successful in spurring new private investment in renewable energy and energy efficient buildings. These technologies create quality jobs, reduce carbon, air and water pollution and create savings for families and businesses Now, state and local climate banks are leading the way in investing in mobility as well as in adaptation and resilience to speed our recovery when disaster strikes. The National Climate Bank Act will ensure that the entire country can make these critical investments, which include driving the necessary investment in communities affected by loss of fossil-fuel related businesses,"" said Doug Sims, Director, Green Finance Center, the Natural Resources Defense Council. Given the scale of investment needed to decarbonize the economy, public capital must be strategically deployed to leverage much greater amounts of private capital. Establishing a National Green Bank as C2ES outlined in Getting to Zero: A U.S. Climate Agenda would do precisely that by driving private investment in the solutions we need to meet the climate challenge, said Bob Perciasepe, President, Center for Climate and Energy Solutions. ""Affordable and accessible financing will be a key part of any climate change policy package developed by Congress,"" said Jason Hartke, President of the Alliance to Save Energy. ""The Alliance to Save Energy applauds Representative Dingell's leadership in introducing the National Climate Bank Act in the House. This critical bill will allow families and businesses across the country to save money on their energy bills while creating local jobs and strengthening the economy."" ""By driving an unprecedented wave of investment into clean energy projects, the National Climate Bank will help us decarbonize faster and with cheaper power. Environment America thanks Congresswoman Dingell for her leadership in advancing this part of an ambitious agenda to fight climate change,"" said Jesse Torrence, Senior Director at Environment America. To tackle climate change, we need to change what we're investing in and re-focus on zero-carbon, clean energy technologies. Representative Dingell's proposal for a National Climate Bank will help us get there by leveraging a modest public investment to attract the enormous potential of private capital to state and regional climate action and investments in low-carbon technologies. And Representative Dingell's National Climate Bank Act focuses on underserved and disadvantaged communities to make sure the transition to a clean energy economy is fair and equitable, said Sam Gomberg, Senior Energy Analyst, Union of Concerned Scientists. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-votes-bring-down-prescription-drug-prices,Rep. Stevens Votes to Bring Down Prescription Drug Prices,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) voted to pass H.R.3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, which will help bring down the cost of prescription drugs and level the playing field for American patients who are paying more for their medicines than patients in other countries. This bill gives Medicare the power to negotiate directly with drug companies, and apply those lower prices to all consumers on private plans. H.R. 3 also caps out-of-pocket costs at $2,000 for Medicare beneficiaries. H.R. 3 passed with a bipartisan 230-192 vote. This morning, Rep. Stevens managed debate and spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives to advocate for this bold legislation to bring down drug prices. “Families in Michigan’s 11th District are facing skyrocketing prescription drug prices, forcing many to choose between their medications and putting food on the table or meeting other basic needs,” said Congresswoman Stevens . “That is unacceptable, and it’s why I pledged to make this issue one of my top priorities this year. I was proud to advance H.R.3 today to deliver on that promise. This historic legislation saves hundreds of billions of dollars, to be reinvested in innovation to search for new cures and treatments, as well as desperately needed funding for states to help combat the opioid crisis, and to create a long-overdue coverage benefit in Medicare for dental, vision, and hearing care. I urge the Senate to take up and pass H.R.3, and send it to the President’s desk for his signature.” A report conducted by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform earlier this year found that insulin prices for the 23,000 Medicare beneficiaries living with diabetes in Michigan’s 11th Congressional District are up to 4.9 times greater than in other countries. In 2016 alone, insulin cost both Medicare and seniors in the 11th District 20 million dollars. Additionally, uninsured individuals in the 11th District pay an average of $583 for a monthly supply of insulin, as compared to the insulin price of $28 in Australia. For the most commonly used insulin medications, Michigan residents spend anywhere from $1,200 to $20,000 annually. H.R. 3 would lower the average total cost of brand name insulin by up to 76% from about $19,800 to $4,800 per year. The Lower Drug Costs Now Act also includes the Maximizing Drug Coverage for Low-Income Seniors Act, Congresswoman Stevens’ legislation to improve the Medicare enrollment process and lower out-of-pocket costs for low-income older adults by ensuring that beneficiaries are intelligently assigned to a Part D plan that best meets their medication needs at the lowest cost. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/lawmakers-call-for-a-review-of-allegations-against-gilead-during-patent-process_--,Lawmakers Call for a Review of Allegations Against Gilead during Patent Process,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Lawmakers Call for a Review of Allegations Against Gilead during Patent Process Thursday, December 12, 2019 Eleven Senators and Chairwoman of the House Oversight Committee Ask Patent Office to Look into Gilead Allegations WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) led ten senators and the Chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee Carolyn B. Maloney in raising concerns with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office about Gilead Sciences' actions related to their patent on HIV prevention medication. The lawmakers sent a letter urging the patent office to conduct a thorough review of the allegations against Gilead when considering whether to grant Gilead the requested Patent Term Extension. Gilead has been accused of misusing the patent system and suspending development of a safer HIV prevention drug in order to gain financially. We write today to express our concerns with the alleged conduct of Gilead Sciences related to its request for patent term extensions (PTEs) for patents relevant to the company's HIV prevention medication, Descovy. We are particularly troubled by the allegation that Gilead may have intentionally delayed development of Descovy in order to maximize profits from its existing drug Truvada, despite taking the position that Descovy is a safer formulation with fewer potential harmful side effects. Given the nature of the allegations against Gilead, we request that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) conduct a thorough review of Gilead's conduct in order to determine if the company has been candid and acted in good faith with regards to their request for PTEs, the lawmakers wrote. Including Senator Stabenow and Chairwoman Maloney, the Senators who signed the letter were Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Jeffrey Merkley (D-OR), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Corey Booker (D-NJ). The full text of the letter is below. A PDF of the letter is available here. December 12, 2019 The Honorable Andrei Iancu Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office 600 Dulaney Street Alexandria, VA 22314 Dear Director Iancu, We write today to express our concerns with the alleged conduct of Gilead Sciences related to its request for patent term extensions (PTEs) for patents relevant to the company's HIV prevention medication, Descovy. We are particularly troubled by the allegation that Gilead may have intentionally delayed development of Descovy in order to maximize profits from its existing drug Truvada, despite taking the position that Descovy is a safer formulation with fewer potential harmful side effects. Given the nature of the allegations against Gilead, we request that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) conduct a thorough review of Gilead's conduct in order to determine if the company has been candid and acted in good faith with regards to their request for PTEs. Gilead is currently in the process of requesting PTEs for a pair of patents related to the drug combination tenofovir alafenamide, known as TAF. TAF, under its brand name of Descovy, recently became the second ever drug approved by the FDA for use as pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PrEP). PrEP can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV by more than 90 percent. In 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 1.1 million Americans could benefit from PrEP. The only other drug for PrEP currently on the market is Gilead's Truvada, which is a combination of the drugs emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). Now that Descovy has been approved for PrEP, Gilead has begun marketing it as a safer alternative to Truvada with a less toxic formulation and fewer potential adverse side effects. Because TAF is effective in smaller doses than TDF, Gilead has taken the position that patients can take less of the drug, leading to lower levels of kidney and bone toxicity. If USPTO grants the PTEs requested by Gilead, Descovy will remain under patent until 2025, rather than 2022. Gilead sells more than $11 billion of HIV-related products in the US every year. Based on those numbers, maintaining patent protection for Descovy for an additional three years alone could be worth over $30 billion. Bringing a safer version of a drug that could potentially save thousands of lives to market is in the public interest. However, intentionally keeping safer versions of drugs off the market in order to maximize corporate profits is clearly not. At the heart of the allegations against Gilead is the claim that Gilead may have deliberately delayed development of the safer drugs used in Descovy by over a decade in order to maximize profits from its blockbuster drug Truvada. Indeed, Gilead initially patented the TAF formulation used in Descovy in 2000, only to allegedly abruptly cut off research and development in 2004. Since 2004, Gilead has earned over $36 billion from sales of Truvada. Gilead, like other pharmaceutical companies, has long argued that the billions of dollars in profits reaped from sales of prescription drugs protected by government-issued patents allow companies to continue to innovate. However, if the allegations against Gilead are true, then Gilead has been incentivized to keep innovative, potentially safer drugs off the market in order to maximize profits by gaming the patent system. Included in the allegations against Gilead is the accusation that they have acted in bad faith in requesting PTEs for Descovy and have not been candid with USPTO. Given that the extension of the patents could mean high long-term costs to both taxpayers and consumers, these serious allegations require thorough investigation by USPTO. If these allegations are found to have merit, it is hard to see how justice or the public interest would be served by extending patent protection for TAF beyond 2022. We urge you to conduct a thorough review of these allegations when determining whether or not it is appropriate to grant Gilead the requested PTEs. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/levin-provision-prioritize-pfas-research-included-bill-protect-great-lakes,Levin Provision to Prioritize PFAS Research Included in Bill to Protect Great Lakes from Climate Change,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Andy Levin,L000592,andylevin.house.gov,,,legacy,"An amendment authored by Congressman Andy Levin (MI-09) to prioritize research into the effects of PFAS chemicals, mercury, and other contaminants on Great Lakes fisheries and fishery ecosystems yesterday passed the House of Representatives as part of The Coastal and Great Lakes Communities Enhancement Act. To sufficiently address the growing threat of PFAS and other contaminants in Michigan and around the country, we must use every opportunity to understand, prevent and clean up these harmful chemicals, Rep. Levin said. By prioritizing U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service research for PFAS and other chemicals, we make use of another tool to combat the contamination crisis. I am also proud that my amendment to help protect avian habitats from the effects of climate change was also included in yesterday's bill. As an avid birder, I know that the bird species of the Great Lakes region are essential to healthy coasts, marshes and wetlands, and it is our responsibility to protect them. Rep. Levin's amendment to prioritize PFAS, mercury and other contaminants in the Great Lakes adds those chemicals to the list of research activities that may be conducted in the Great Lakes Basin by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Rep. Levin's other amendment ensures that projects to protect and restore bird habitats are eligible for Climate Change Adaptation grants. The Coastal and Great Lakes Communities Enhancement Act is a package of bipartisan bills that protects vulnerable coastal and Great Lakes communities impacted by the climate crisis. The bill creates programs to support Tribal, State, and local community projects that protect, restore, and preserve coastal zones and working waterfronts, helps communities prepare for and respond to the climate crisis, and uses data to address coastal, ocean, and Great Lakes management.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-kildee-support-articles-impeachment-against-president,Statement by Congressman Dan Kildee in Support of Articles of Impeachment Against President Donald J. Trump,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, issued the following statement after two articles of impeachment were introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives: The President has abused the powers of his office, betrayed the public trust and undermined America's national security by pressuring a foreign government to interfere in our elections for his own political gain. Damning evidence has been presented about the President's misconduct in office, and it is clear to me that Donald Trump has committed an impeachable offense under the Constitution. No one is above the law, including the President. And in this serious and solemn moment in our nation's history, the Constitution is clear: the remedy for such misconduct by a sitting president is impeachment. I did not come to Congress to impeach the President of the United States. But sadly, the President's misconduct has left Congress no choice. I will vote in favor of articles of impeachment to defend our Constitution, protect our democracy, and hold this President accountable. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2014,Dingell to Vote Against NDAA,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) issued the following statement on why she will vote against the FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) because among other issues it fails to include House-passed amendments by Dingell to address PFAS contamination: PFAS is a clear and present threat to Michigan and clean water. I worked very hard to build consensus around my provisions in the House-passed NDAA to cleanup PFAS and safeguard the public from further contamination. This fall, dozens of members made clear they could not support any final defense authorization that does not include PFAS cleanup provisions under the Superfund program and the Clean Water Act. I was serious this fall and again today, when I say I will not support any final defense authorization that does not include a comprehensive set of PFAS provisions including mine requiring EPA to declare it as the hazardous substance we know it to be. Members of the military and their families are being poisoned at military installations and bases that we know have been contaminated with PFAS. Protecting men, women, and families of our armed services is deeply important and we cannot leave them behind. NDAA presented the opportunity to take serious action and accelerate the cleanup process where PFAS contamination exists. Because Republicans blocked my provisions, the House has no choice but to take up the Dingell PFAS Action Act and bipartisan legislation passed by the Energy and Commerce Committee in November. Getting something done on PFAS is our only option. Further, the NDAA Conference Report fails to take meaningful steps to end the War in Yemen. Congress never authorized our military's participation, in what continues to threaten 24 million Yemenis facing death, starvation and disease. Yemen remains on the brink of famine and is the site of what the U.N. deems the world's worst humanitarian crisis. In Michigan, we hear regularly from those with family who face disease, starvation, and violence from this conflict. The U.S. involvement must come to an end and Congress should have used this National Defense Authorization Act to stop our endless wars. I always support our nation's military and the men and women who serve. It's for them that I feel passionately and why NDAA in its current form has not earned my vote. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-representative-brenda-lawrence-leads-march-senator-mcconnell-s-office,U.S. Representative Brenda Lawrence Leads March to Senator McConnells Office Urging Passage of Legislation Benefiting Women,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congresswoman Brenda L. Lawrence (MI-14) will lead a march to the office of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to hand deliver a letter with the Democratic Women's Caucus (DWC) and the House Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC). The letter urges Senator McConnell to act on House-passed legislation that benefits women and their families. As the Co-Chair of the Democratic Women's Caucus, I implore Senate Majority Leader McConnell to bring to the Senate floor legislation that includes the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, the Paycheck Fairness Act, and the Raise the Wage Act just to name a few, said Congresswoman Lawrence. His failure to act denies our senators the opportunity to consider these critical pieces of legislation which is an affront to women and families across this country, added Congresswoman Lawrence. The letter of request has been signed by 82 women members, several of whom will participate in the trek to the senate immediately following votes (estimated between 1:00pm-1:30pm). The group will gather in the Rayburn Room for a short program prior to their walk to the senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://slotkin.house.gov/media/press-releases/slotkin-statement-ndaa-pfas-provisions,Slotkin Statement on NDAA PFAS Provisions,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,slotkin.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-08), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and former senior Pentagon official, released the following statement on PFAS provisions in the NDAA. A summary of the conference report can be found here, and the full conference report is available here. This year's NDAA reflects progress on an issue that's top of the mind for Michiganders: holding the Department of Defense accountable for PFAS contamination, Slotkin said. While we didn't get everything we wanted, as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I fought to include provisions that require the Department to stop using PFAS-laden fire fighting foam (AFFF) by no later than 2024. In addition, military training exercises will be prohibited from using PFAS-laden fire fighting foam and the Department of Defense will be required to administer blood tests for PFAS exposure to military firefighters. And in Michigan, where the majority of our military installations belong to the National Guard, our base commanders will now be able to access the same environmental clean-up dollars as active duty bases. While we didn't get everything we wanted related to PFAS, this is the first time the Pentagon has been required to do anything more than just study' PFAS, Slotkin added. And that is a step in the right direction. We still have a lot of work to do when it comes to stopping PFAS from contaminating our communities clean water from our taps and in the Great Lakes State should be a right and not a privilege, Slotkin continued. I'll continue fighting alongside my colleagues to hold the whole U.S. government accountable for critical regulatory reforms and standards that we need, and we deserve. Provisions included in the NDAA: Prevent further PFAS contamination: Requires the DoD to stop using PFAS-laden firefighting foam (AFFF) by 2024, and prioritize efforts to find a safe alternative; Requires DoD to dispose of AFFF and tools used to remediate PFAScontamination (such as water filters) in a safe manner that does not create further contamination or pollution; Bans the use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam in training/exercises; Bans the uncontrolled use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam for any purpose other than for putting out fires. Hold the DoD accountable for PFAS remediation: Provides the National Guard access to DoD environmental remediation funds; Requires the DoD to adhere to state-level drinking water standards if they are more stringent than federal standards; Authorizes DoD to provide alternative water for farmers affected by PFAS contaminated agricultural water. Help civilians and service members affected by PFAS contamination: Requires DoD to provide blood testing for DoD firefighters exposed to PFAS during their annual physical exam to determine and document potential exposure; Bans the use of PFAS chemicals in packaging for the Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) servicemembers eat when deployed in combat and for training. Requirements beyond the DoD: Requires the director of the US Geological survey to establish a performance standard for detecting PFAS, conduct a nationwide sampling to determine extent of PFAS contamination, and report the results; Requires the EPA to include PFOS and PFOA in the toxic release inventory of the Toxic Substances Control Act, which requires that industry and federal facilities report the amounts they are releasing into the environment; Requires the EPA to monitor PFAS under unregulated contaminants program; Requires EPA to finalize its significant new use rule for certain types of PFAS within a year -- and requires industry to provide notification before beginning new manufacturing processes for this family of PFAS; Requires all companies that have manufactured PFAS to inform the EPA; Requires collaboration and sharing of data related to PFAS between state government, federal government, universities, and research institutions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-votes-bipartisan-bill-protect-great-lakes-communities-climate,Rep. Stevens Votes for Bipartisan Bill to Protect Great Lakes Communities from Climate Crisis,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) voted for H.R. 729, the Coastal and Great Lakes Communities Enhancement Act, a package of bipartisan bills that protects vulnerable coastal and Great Lakes communities impacted by the climate crisis. The bill creates programs to support Tribal, State, and local community projects that protect, restore, and preserve coastal zones and working waterfronts; helps communities prepare for and respond to climate change; and uses data to address coastal, ocean, and Great Lakes management. H.R. 729 also protects American commercial and recreational fisheries and the communities that depend on them by authorizing programs that preserve fish habitats and research Great Lakes fisheries management. “Jobs, recreation, and tourism in Michigan and the entire region depend upon a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem,” said Congresswoman Stevens. “Coastal communities in Michigan and around the country are especially vulnerable to severe weather events, chronic flooding, and coastal erosion as the climate crisis worsens. The Coastal and Great Lakes Communities Enhancement Act will help coastal communities plan and prosper for a resilient future while preserving natural habitats and biodiversity.” Rep. Stevens also supported an amendment to the legislation that would require climate change adaptation plans to include strategies to address invasive species. In July, Rep. Stevens joined the Michigan delegation for a bipartisan tour of the Brandon Road Lock and Dam near Joliet, Illinois, where the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is completing a project to halt the spread of invasive Asian carp before they reach the Great Lakes. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://tlaib.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-rashida-tlaib-statement-national-defense-authorization-act,Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib Statement on the National Defense Authorization Act,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Rashida Tlaib,T000481,tlaib.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib released the following statement regarding the today's upcoming House vote on the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): I voted against the NDAA in July, and I will vote against it again today, as Congress moves a bill that amounts to a $131 billion increase in defense spending in the last two years. As a voice and advocate for a district that encompasses frontline communities facing concentrated poverty, growing health care costs, decreasing education funding, and continuous assaults on our environment, I cannot support a bill that provides $738 billion for wars and defense contractors while this year we provided only $190 billion in discretionary funding for health care, education, and workforce development. This bill gives the President hundreds of billions of dollars to continue illegal, endless wars abroad, keep Guantanamo Bay open, build new nuclear warheads, and establish a wasteful Space Force that makes us less safe. After the House took action to end U.S. involvement in the war and humanitarian crisis in Yemen which has killed more than 100,000 people, displaced 2 million people, and left 22 million Yemenis in dire need of humanitarian assistance the NDAA fails to include the necessary provisions to end U.S. support for military action in Yemen. The NDAA conference report also removes the House's repeal of the Iraq War Authorization of Military Force which continues to be used as justification for endless wars abroad and allows the Pentagon to spend its budget at President Trump's properties without reimbursement, turning our military budget into a goldmine for our corrupt President. Congress cannot continue to rubber stamp annual increases in our military budget by far the largest in the world which has been used to create chaos abroad, while children go hungry at night and parents worry how they'll keep a roof over their heads. The NDAA also fails to take the necessary urgent action on PFAS to keep our communities safe. The NDAA has been stripped of key PFAS provisions, including a provision designating all PFAS and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, a provision requiring a safe drinking water standard, and a provision that would reduce ongoing corporate PFAS releases into drinking water by adding PFAS to the Clean Water Act's Toxic Pollutants List. Absent these strong protections for our families and the environment, I cannot in good conscience vote for the NDAA. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-ensure-representation-for-agriculture-forestry-and-rural-sectors-on-faas-drone-policy-board-advances-in-senate,"Peters’ Bipartisan Bill to Ensure Representation for Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Sectors on FAA’s Drone Policy Board Advances in Senate",2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.19 Peters' Bipartisan Bill to Ensure Representation for Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Sectors on FAA's Drone Policy Board Advances in Senate WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today applauded Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation approval of bipartisan legislation to ensure the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)'s chief drone policy committee includes representation for agriculture, forestry, and rural America. The Drone Advisory Committee for the 21st Century Act, which Peters introduced with Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Pat Roberts (R-KS), would also ensure that the FAA provides representation for local government officials, including those from county and tribal governments, on the Drone Advisory Committee (DAC). As more Michigan businesses and farmers incorporate drones into their everyday operations, it is critical that they have a seat at the table when decisions impacting them are being made, said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. This bipartisan measure will ensure that agriculture, forestry and rural voices have a say when new rules are established around these new technologies. I am pleased that the Senate is advancing this bipartisan effort, and I look forward to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that this commonsense legislation becomes law. This bipartisan legislation, which promotes the consideration of agriculture and forestry applications in the development of future drone policy, cleared an important Senate hurdle today, said Thune. I urge my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to work together to get this legislation past the finish line to ensure our farmers and ranchers can fully utilize the unique applications of drone technology in their fields. With drones becoming a part of everyday life for farmers and ranchers in not only Kansas, but throughout the entire country, I am pleased to see this bipartisan legislation being advanced in the Senate, said Sen. Roberts. This bill will ensure rural Americans are included in the decision making process when it comes to drone policies that will impact their businesses. As the drone industry grows at a rapid rate, it is clear intergovernmental collaboration and solutions are needed to protect the safety and privacy of our residents, said Matthew Chase, Executive Director of the National Association of Counties. Across the country, counties are using this new technology for critical functions, including emergency response, infrastructure inspection, search and rescue, and mapping. We applaud the bipartisan efforts of Senators Peters, Thune and Roberts to ensure local governments are represented on the Federal Aviation Administration's Drone Advisory Committee. County leaders must be at the table, not just as stakeholders, but as co-regulators. Drones have become a critical part of production agriculture from crop protection to improving nutrient use and increasing yields. As more farmers depend on drone services, Senator Peters' bill will give farmers a seat at the table with other industries and manufacturers to help shape the best policies for an ever-evolving industry, and ultimately to help farmers stay competitive in a global economy, said John Kran, National Legislative Counsel for the Michigan Farm Bureau. The Drone Advisory Committee for the 21st Century Act would encourage public participation in the nomination process to increase broader user representation on the DAC, and would impose transparency requirements to ensure that the DAC's work becomes part of the public record. Since it was first announced in 2016, the DAC has never included a representative from the agriculture or forestry sector. In 2017, complaints were raised about the Committee's transparency. In June, Senator Peters and the Chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee Roger Wicker wrote to the FAA to request broader representation on the Committee for the agriculture, forestry, and rangeland sectors. The legislation has the support of a number of organizations, including the Rural & Agriculture Council of America, American Forest Foundation, Michigan Forest Foundation, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, National Association of Corn Growers, United Egg Producers, U.S. Cattlemen's Association, American Dairy Coalition, Michigan Corn Growers Association, National Association of Counties and the Michigan Farm Bureau. Peters has long supported efforts in Congress to support Michigan farmers. Last month, the Senate unanimously approved bipartisan legislation Peters coauthored to address the shortage of agricultural inspectors who protect the nation's food supply and agricultural industries at our nation's borders. Peters has also been a leading voice in support of efforts by cherry growers across Michigan to prevent foreign competitors from deploying unfair trade practices, including dumping and subsidies on imported goods. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/senate-unanimously-passes-resolution-led-by-stabenow-collins-honoring-first-all-female-spacewalk-,"Senate Unanimously Passes Resolution Led by Stabenow, Collins Honoring First All-Female Spacewalk",2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate Unanimously Passes Resolution Led by Stabenow, Collins Honoring First All-Female Spacewalk Wednesday, December 11, 2019 The resolution was cosponsored by all 25 women Senators Washington, D.C. Last night, the Senate unanimously passed a resolution led by U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and cosponsored by all 23 of their female colleagues congratulating astronauts Dr. Jessica U. Meir and Christina H. Koch for the historic accomplishment of completing the first all-female spacewalk. The bipartisan resolution also supports the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) efforts to fully integrate women into the astronaut corps and ensure that one of the next humans to walk on the moon will be a woman. On October 18, 2019, Dr. Meir and Ms. Koch conducted a seven hour and seven minute spacewalk to replace a power controllerthe first all-female spacewalk in history, and the 14th and 15th women, respectively, to conduct a spacewalk. Dr. Jessica Meir's and Christina Koch's completion of NASA's first all-female spacewalk marked an incredible moment in our nation's history and will be venerated for generations to come, said Senator Collins. This bipartisan resolution, supported by all 25 female Senators, recognizes Jessica and Christina for their extraordinary accomplishments. They continue to inspire students throughout the country to pursue their dreams. Jessica Meir and Christina Koch made history this year when they completed the first all-female spacewalk. This important milestone will leave a lasting impression on our space program and on young women across the country. Jessica and Christina have showed us what the future looks like and I look forward to following their careers and the careers of other women as they continue to make our nation proud,said Senator Stabenow. Dr. Meir is a native of Caribou, Maine. She has a degree in biology from Brown University, a master's in space studies from the International Space University, and a Ph.D. in marine biology from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Jessica is the first woman from Maine and only the third person from Maine ever to go on a space flight. Ms. Koch is a native of Grand Rapids, Michigan. She has a degree in electrical engineering and physics, as well as a master's degree in electrical engineering from North Carolina State University. In 2013, Dr. Meir and Ms. Koch were among the four women and four men selected from 6,100 applications for NASA's 21st class of astronauts and began training for future space flights. NASA first began to admit women into its astronaut program in 1978. Last month, Senator Collins talked with Dr. Meir on the phone to congratulate her on completing the first all-women spacewalk. In October, Dr. Meir spoke via a live video with hundreds of Caribou students in grades 3-12 and answered questions. In June, Senators Collins and Angus King and Representative Jared Golden sent a letter to NASA in support of Eastern Aroostook RSU 39 and Caribou's request to participate in this videoconference with Dr. Meir while she was in orbit. In 2016, Senator Collins and Dr. Meir were two of the six inaugural inductees of the Caribou High School Alumni Hall of Fame. Click HERE to read the resolution. ### Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-andy-levin-statement-usmca,Rep. Andy Levin Statement on USMCA,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Andy Levin,L000592,andylevin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Andy Levin, vice chair of the House Education and Labor Committee, today released the following statement: I look forward to diving into the details of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) agreement before making a final judgment about it. And I deeply appreciate and respect the work of the Speaker, Chairman Neal, the Speaker's working group, and our allies who helped make it way more worker and consumer friendly than what the President proposed. However, I have been in the fight for workers' rights in the U.S. and abroad for 35 years - in SEIU, the UAW, the AFL-CIO, the Clinton Administration and beyond. This is the core of my expertise and life experience. Based on my discussions about the negotiations and the reality on the ground in Mexico, I fear that this NAFTA 2.0 will not provide Mexican workers with the freedom to organize independent unions and bargain for a better life on any scale - and in the export sectors that matter most to U.S. workers in particular. Only ending the deeply entrenched company union/protection contract system will raise standards for Mexican workers so we can slow the stream of American middle class jobs being transformed into low wage jobs south of the border. If the new agreement fails to accomplish that, we will spawn another generation of justifiably alienated U.S. workers. I will not stand for that.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2011,Dingell: Trade Agreement brings Cautious Optimism,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dingell: Trade Agreement brings Cautious Optimism Washington, December 10, 2019 WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) issued the following statement on the tentative trade agreement: This isn't about winners or losers, it's about doing what is right for American workers. We have a moral responsibility to help our workers. If this new deal levels the playing field, creates jobs, raises wages, brings manufacturing back to this country, and fosters innovation and technology it will earn my vote. Every day, I see and hear about what trade agreements like NAFTA 1.0 did to American workers. Today, factories sit empty in Michigan and across my district while workers are unable to compete with sub-par, non-union workers in other country. Thank you to Speaker Pelosi for her leadership in getting a trade deal that helps our workers. Along with my colleagues in Congress, friends in labor, and businesses, I look forward to reading the details of the Trump Administration's agreement with Canada and Mexico. This agreement brings cautious optimism to our community, but must meet the standard of earning my vote. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://slotkin.house.gov/media/press-releases/slotkin-pressley-speier-kuster-introduce-bill-prevent-secretary-devos-rolling,"Slotkin, Pressley, Speier, Kuster Introduce Bill to Prevent Secretary DeVos From Rolling Back Title IX Survivor Protections",2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,slotkin.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-08), alongside Reps. Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Jackie Speier (CA-14), and Annie Kuster (NH-02) introduced a bill today that would prevent Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos from implementing, enforcing, or otherwise giving effect to her proposed rule changes to Title IX. Proposed in November of 2018, the rule changes would raise legal standards for what constitutes sexual harassment, introduce procedural obstacles to reporting and adjudicating claims of sexual harassment, and limit a school's responsibility to address sexual harassment based on where the harassment occured and to whom it was reported. These rules could have a chilling effect on students' willingness to come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct and would be a detriment to survivors and to students in general and the academic institutions they attend. Slotkin's congressional district includes Michigan State University, where Larry Nassar sexually assaulted hundreds of girls and women over the course of 20 years. DeVos's proposed rules would have shielded, and in some cases prohibited, MSU from taking action on the Title IX claims against Nassar. Slotkin has established a Title IX district advisory board made up of survivors, advocates, legal experts and education professionals, with whom she has collaborated on a variety of legislation to prevent sexual assault and ensure survivors can seek justice. ""As the representative of the Michigan State University community that has been so deeply affected by sexual assault on campus, I cannot understand why Secretary DeVos continues to move forward with proposed changes to Title IX that make it harder for victims to come forward with a successful claim, Rep. Slotkin said. ""I have done everything I can think of to appeal to Secretary DeVos to change course: I've submitted a formal comment on the rules and sent letters opposing her proposed changes, Ive sent Freedom of Information requests, and met with her personally, all with the goal of reversing course. I have also met regularly with survivors, advocates, and university leadership in our district who remain deeply concerned about the chilling effect these rule changes would have on school safety. They also stand ready to meet with the Secretary to help her understand why her changes would hurt our communities. Given that Secretary DeVos insists on moving forward, I felt compelled to introduce this legislation that prevents those rules from taking effect. It is our responsibility to collectively affirm the dignity and the humanity of survivors of sexual violence, and Title IX has been a critical tool for doing just that on campuses across our country, said Congresswoman Pressley. The Massachusetts 7th Congressional District is home to the largest concentration of young people and as such, I am committed to lifting the voices of survivors of campus sexual assault and to providing students with the resources and support they need to feel safe coming forward on campus. As the Trump-DeVos administration continues its cruel policy of rolling back crucial protections for the most vulnerable, I'm proud to support this bill to ensure justice for survivors. Title IX requires equal opportunity to education, and Secretary DeVos's misguided rule change only hinders that important objective, said Rep. Kuster, a founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence. This legislation will prevent the Trump Administration from carrying out its regressive, harmful new rule. Improving the safety of campuses and the wellbeing of students must be our top priority. I'm pleased to join my colleagues to introduce this commonsense measure and I will continue my efforts to help prevent sexual violence, support survivors, and ensure students are safe. As outrageous as it may seem, the Department of Education's new Title IX rule provides more protections to assailants, fewer benefits to sexual assault survivors, and less liability for schools and universities, said Rep. Speier. It's as if fraternities around the country drafted this rule. The bar for proving sexual violence will be so high that survivors will be discouraged from coming forward and schools will once again be able to sweep allegations under the rug. We can't allow the Nassars and Sanduskys of the world to be aided and abetted. ""This bill is necessary in order to make sure that survivors' rights are protected on campuses and in schools across the nation, Grace French, Founder and President of The Army of Survivors. Proposed changes to Title IX set forth by Betsy DeVos would be catastrophic to the safety of students, and inevitably lead to lower reporting rates, as well as increased trauma for survivors who did come forward. I applaud Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin for working to protect survivors, and students across the nation."" As an attorney representing parties going through the Title IX process in both higher education and K-12 institutions, I have serious concerns about how the Secretary of Education's proposed regulations will impact students, staff, and faculty who are involved in Title IX complaint investigations in our educational institutions, Elizabeth Abdnour, Founder & Principal, Elizabeth K. Abdnour, Esq., PLLC. Based on the draft of the proposed regulations that was circulated in November 2018, it appears that the Secretary of Education seeks to limit schools' ability to address and prevent sex discrimination by limiting both the scope and jurisdiction schools have over incidents of sex discrimination, including sexual assault and sexual harassment. The proposed regulations state that an instance of sex discrimination must be found to be ""severe and pervasive"" before a school could intervene to address it. This would mean that, for example, an instance of sex discrimination that was determined by a school to be severe but not pervasive - such as a one-time sexual assault - could be determined to not be a violation of Title IX. In addition, the proposed regulations would require a finding of deliberate indifference - a high burden to prove - before the Department of Education could become involved in addressing problems with a particular school's investigation or processes. This would significantly limit the Department of Education's ability to oversee schools' response to Title IX complaints. Finally, these regulations would create a statutory standard under which claims of sex discrimination were handled differently than claims of other types of protected-class discrimination, which would not have similar limitations. This is inappropriate and has the potential to further increase the problem of sex discrimination on campus. I support the proposed legislation and appreciate Representative Slotkin's efforts to prevent the Secretary of Education from limiting the scope of Title IX protections. DeVos has received strong criticism, as well as over 100,000 formal comments, regarding her proposed rule changes to Title IX, which would make it more difficult for survivors to report instances of sexual assault or harassment by narrowing what constitutes a valid Title IX complaint. Secretary DeVos's proposed Title IX rule changes would specifically impact survivors of the Larry Nassar tragedy by either shielding MSU from liability to take action on, or requiring MSU to ignore, accusations against Nassar. Under Secretary DeVos's proposed rules: In many instances, schools would not be responsible for addressing sexual harassment, even when school employees knew about the harassment. Under this proposed rule, Michigan State University would have had no responsibility to take action to stop Larry Nassar because survivors often reported sexual abuse to athletic personnel, staff, and others they trusted rather than individuals that meet a specific category of employee with authority to institute corrective measures or a Title IX coordinator. Schools would be required to ignore harassment that occurs outside of a school activity, including most off-campus and online harassment. Larry Nassar abused women on and off campus. But under these proposed rules, survivors like Amanda Thomashow (the first woman to file a Title IX complaint against MSU for Nassar's abuse, leading to his investigation and eventual firing), would have been required to be ignored by the university because her assault took place just across the street from campus. Does not require universities to automatically take action if an employee is harassing students within the context of their employment at the institution. Under this rule, schools would not bear responsibility to take action to stop Larry Nassar, as he was abusing women and girls within the context of his job as a sports doctor. Schools would be required to ignore harassment until it becomes quite severe and harmful and denies a student educational opportunities. In other words, schools would be required to ignore the student's Title IX complaints if the harassment hasn't yet advanced to a point that it is actively harming a student's education, meaning many students would need to endure repeated and escalating levels of abuse without being able to ask their schools for help.More details on Secretary DeVos's proposed Title IX rules can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-launches-congressional-plastics-solutions-task-force,Rep. Stevens Launches Congressional Plastics Solutions Task Force,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — This morning, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) launched the Congressional Plastics Solutions Task Force, a coalition of lawmakers working together with state and local officials and industry representatives to facilitate investment in recycling technologies and promote education on plastics generation and recovery. Congresswoman Stevens has been a leader on recycling issues in Congress, chairing the first Science Committee hearing on recycling in a decade earlier this year. Reps. Kim Schrier (D-WA-08), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), and Greg Murphy (R-NC-03) participated in today’s launch meeting. From the food we eat to the clothes we wear, plastics have shaped every aspect of modern life. At the same time, insufficient strategies for recycling and waste management and the lack of robust secondary markets for plastics is creating steeper costs for municipalities for their recycling programs and devastating effects on public health. Less than 9 percent of all plastic created is recycled each year – and we are on course to generate over 12 billion metric tons of plastic waste by 2050. The majority of these plastics are accumulating in landfills and the environment where it will outlive the next several generations. The Congressional Plastics Solutions Task Force will convene periodic meetings to: Highlight changes and innovations in the private sector; Increase understanding of the challenges facing our domestic recycling infrastructure; Identify and discuss innovative approaches to plastics generation and recovery, as well as the latest research on those topics; Build consensus among Members of Congress around opportunities to address plastic waste. “Plastics have become fundamental to almost all aspects of our lives, from food storage to 3-D printing technology, and have enabled us to make great technological advances,” said Congresswoman Stevens. “With this progress, however, comes a cost. Some estimates suggest that Americans dispose of 22 million tons of products that could have been recycled every year. We produce far more plastic than we can properly recycle, domestically and internationally. The extent of plastics pollution is becoming ever more apparent and more alarming. The news is not all bleak, however. There are a number of new technologies that are being developed to increase the efficiency and availability of plastics recycling, repurpose more recycled plastics into high-value products, and ultimately, reduce the impact of plastic on the environment and human health. By creating the Congressional Plastics Solutions Task Force, I hope to bring my colleagues together with industry and other stakeholders to build momentum around these emerging technologies and move toward a more sustainable future.” “I am pleased and excited about the new Congressional Plastics Solutions Task Force that Congresswoman Haley Stevens is putting forth,” said Pat Williams, Canton Township Supervisor. “I have been at the table discussing this issue with Congresswoman Stevens since she took office. Her efforts are absolutely crucial, not only for our local communities but for our entire country.” “For communities like Plymouth, the environmental benefits of recycling must be weighed against the economic and administrative factors that can make it difficult to maintain municipal recycling programs without increasing costs for residents,” said Paul Sincock, Plymouth City Manager. “As a City Manager, I know that a stronger end market for plastics would increase the value of the recycled goods we collect, helping to preserve and strengthen municipal recycling programs across the country. Congresswoman Stevens has been paying close attention to this issue, inviting me to testify before her Research & Technology subcommittee earlier this year to speak to the challenges of overseeing a municipal recycling program. I applaud the formation of the new Congressional Plastics Solutions Task Force, which will bring stakeholders to the table to help address our growing plastic waste crisis.” ""Rep. Haley Stevens’ leadership on an issue of critical importance to the environment is greatly appreciated,” said American Beverage Association President and CEO Katherine Lugar. “The Congressional Plastics Solutions Task Force will bolster our industry’s efforts to decrease the use of new plastic by increasing the collection of plastic so it can be remade into new products, and not wasted in landfills or as litter. This task force demonstrates how we can work together in support of new ideas and investments that will benefit consumers, conserve resources and protect the environment. Background: Rep. Stevens on Recycling In April, Rep. Stevens sent a letter to the EPA asking for information about the agency’s data collection practices, their progress toward building out a domestic recycling infrastructure, and their work to mitigate the ongoing impacts of China’s plastic ban. In June, the House of Representatives unanimously passed Rep. Stevens’ amendment to instruct the Environmental Protection Agency to prioritize funding to develop a national recycling strategy to ensure the long-term economic and environmental viability of local recycling programs. In July, Rep. Stevens led letters to Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler questioning their response to China’s January 2018 ban on certain types of plastic materials and fulfilling their responsibilities to reduce economic and technical barriers to recycling. Nearly 50 Members of Congress signed the letters, which highlighted the lack of leadership from federal agencies responsible for creating and maintaining a viable recycling market in the United States. As Chair of the Research & Technology Subcommittee, Rep. Stevens convened the first Science Committee hearing about recycling in a decade after hearing concerns about the long-term viability of local recycling programs in southeast Michigan. Rep. Stevens introduced H. Res. 303, a bipartisan resolution expressing support for global Remanufacturing Day. Remanufacturing is the process by which used products are returned to good-as-new (or better) condition, and contributes to sustainable manufacturing by recycling old products. ICYMI: Bridge Magazine: Michigan congresswoman pushes national plan to fix recycling woes Michigan Advance: Stevens: ‘Record’ amount of plastics, rising recycling costs, pose challenges Bloomberg Environment: Michigan House Freshman Sees Manufacturing, Sustainability Nexus ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-statement-usmca-agreement,Rep. Stevens Statement on USMCA Agreement,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON —Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) released the following statement after Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal announced a deal with United States Trade Representative Ambassador Lighthizer on the United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement. “I am encouraged by the agreement announced by Speaker Pelosi and Chairman Neal this morning, and I look forward to reviewing the implementing legislation in full to ensure that the agreement includes adequate protections for American workers and for our environment,” said Congresswoman Stevens. “I have been pushing for a vote on USMCA by the end of the year because manufacturers in my district are looking for certainty, and that’s what this trade deal will bring along with jobs and economic growth.” In July, Congresswoman Stevens was one of 14 House Democrats to call for a vote on a strong, bipartisan USMCA deal by the end of 2019. As Freshman Class Co-President, Congresswoman Stevens also convened a meeting between the freshman lawmakers and United States Trade Representative Ambassador Lighthizer. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:45:33Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-pfas-provisions-included-in-final-national-defense-bill,Peters’ PFAS Provisions Included in Final National Defense Bill,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.10.19 Peters' PFAS Provisions Included in Final National Defense Bill Provisions Secured by Peters Phase Out Department of Defense's Use of Firefighting Foams Containing PFAS; Increase Coordination Between Pentagon and States; Improve Understanding of PFAS Through Advanced Computer Modeling WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today announced that the final national defense bill agreed to by negotiators from the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives includes provisions he authored and cosponsored to address PFAS contamination in Michigan and across the country. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which sets policy for the Department of Defense, has been enacted into law for more than 55 consecutive years. Now that a final bill is negotiated, the Senate and House will vote on it before it goes to the President to be signed into law. This year's NDAA includes a number of provisions, including a 3.1 percent pay raise for servicemembers, an end to the Widow's Tax which will increase survivor's benefits for families of deceased servicemembers and bipartisan legislation Peters cosponsored to crack down on international manufacturers and traffickers of fentanyl. PFAS contamination is impacting Michigan communities, families and our military. I am pleased that the final national defense bill includes provisions that I authored to take steps to address exposure and help communities struggling with PFAS, said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Although there are important provisions to confront the PFAS crisis in this bill, I'm disappointed several measures were not included. More must be done, and I will continue to push the Trump Administration to help clean up sites that have been contaminated and establish drinking water standards. I will also look for other opportunities in the Senate to move these actions forward. A number of provisions that Peters led or supported are in the final bill including: Stopping the Use of PFAS Chemicals in Firefighting Foams: The bill prevents the Department of Defense from buying firefighting foam that contains PFAS after October 1, 2023 and from using these foams after October 1, 2024. The Senate unanimously passed Peters' resolution in September calling for the final defense bill to include similar provision. This builds on Peters' work in last year's annual defense bill that is now law, which urged the Department of Defense to develop fluorine-free firefighting foams. Preventing Use of PFAS-laden Firefighting Foams in Training Exercises: The bill directs the Secretary of Defense to prohibit the use of firefighting foams containing PFAS in military training exercises. Increasing Coordination on PFAS Remediation Efforts, Data Between the Department of Defense and States:Peters secured a provision that would encourage the Department of Defense to finalize cooperative agreements with states and partner with Governors to address, test, monitor, remove, or remediatePFAS contamination originating from Department of Defense activities, including at decommissioned military installations and National Guard facilities. If a cooperative agreement is not reached within one year of the request from a state, the Secretary of Defense must report to Congress explaining why. This measure is similar to bipartisan legislation thatPeters introduced with Senator Debbie Stabenow and other colleagues. The bill additionally requires the Department of Defense to share PFAS in water monitoring data with nearby municipalities. Developing New Technologies to Detect PFAS, Adding PFAS to the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory, Helping Farms Impacted by PFAS from Military Sites:The bill includes a provisions Peters supported that provides the US Geological Survey with more resources to develop new advanced technologies to detect PFAS and conduct nationwide sampling for PFAS in the environmentbased on the bipartisanPFAS Detection Actthat Peters reintroduced with Stabenow earlier this year; and adds PFAS to the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory, affording better transparency on when and where PFAS chemicals are created, used and disposed of. The bill also authorizes the U.S. Air Force to compensate agricultural lands contaminated by PFAS near military installations. As Ranking Member of the Senate's top oversight committee, Peters has led Congressional efforts to address PFAS contamination in Michigan and across the country. Most recently, Peters' bipartisan bill to help protect the health and safety of firefighters and emergency responders frequently exposed to PFAS advanced in the Senate. In April, Petersrequested informationfrom the Government Accountability Office (GAO) about ongoing federal efforts to address PFAS contamination as well as an evaluation of the financial cost of cleaning up contaminated sites around the country. Peters also introducedbipartisan legislationrequiring the EPA to declare PFAS as hazardous substances eligible for cleanup funds under the EPA Superfund law. Prior to that, Peters convened the first ever Senate hearing on PFAS to assess the federal role in contamination and clean-up, and additionally convened a field summit in Grand Rapids. Last year, Peters authored a provision that is now law to allow airports to transition away from using firefighting foams that contain PFAS. He also secured a provision that was enacted to encourage the Department of Defense to develop PFAS-free firefighting foams. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/senator-stabenow-announces-362000-to-grow-michigan-farmers-markets-statewide,"Senator Stabenow Announces $362,000 to Grow Michigan Farmers Markets Statewide",2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Stabenow Announces $362,000 to Grow Michigan Farmers Markets Statewide New grant, funded in Stabenow's 2018 Farm Bill, will promote Michigan farmers markets, help farmers sell local food to families Tuesday, December 10, 2019 WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today announced new federal support to help expand Michigan farmers markets all across the state. This investment comes through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farmers Market Promotion Program in the 2018 Farm Bill, which Senator Stabenow co-authored. Farmers markets spur economic development in local communities, connect more families with Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables, and create new markets for local farmers, said Senator Stabenow. This is a win-win for everyone. TheMichigan Farmers Market Association will receive $362,791 to promote farmers markets throughout the state and grow their customer base among residents and tourists alike. The project will enhance the visibility of farmers markets through outreach to customers, training for market managers, and strengthened digital tools to help consumers find nearby farmers markets. The Michigan Farmers Market Association is very excited to have been awarded a grant from the Farmers Market Promotion Program, said Amanda Shreve, Executive Director, Michigan Farmers Market Association. This funding will expand consumer awareness of, attendance, and purchasing at Michigan's 300 farmers markets.The project will include a statewide outreach campaign and a robust data collection plan to document and assess the impact on farmers markets throughout our state. We applaud Senator Stabenow on her work in the Farm Bill process to ensure resources are investedtohelp connect consumers to healthy, local food and support the viability of farms and food businesses that power local food systems. In the 2018 Farm Bill, Senator Stabenow secured permanent funding for the Farmers Market Promotion Program by including it as part of the new Local Agriculture Market Program. The permanent funds will ensure there are investments available for farmers markets for years to come. ### Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/levin-and-davis-again-press-department-ed-academic-freedom-universities-unc,"Levin and Davis Again Press Department of Ed on Academic Freedom at Universities, UNC-Duke Consortium",2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Andy Levin,L000592,andylevin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Andy Levin, vice chair of the House Education and Labor Committee, and Congresswoman Susan Davis, chair of the Committee's Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Investment, today sent a second letter to Education Secretary Betsy DeVos demanding answers on the Department's intervention into the Duke-UNC Consortium for Middle Eastern Studies curriculum for what may be political reasons. The Department's intervention follows a pattern of behavior that prioritizes political goals over academic freedom. A section of the letter reads: While we agreed that the Department must ensure that all federal funds are spent according to law, the circumstances surrounding the Department's investigation into the Duke-UNC Consortium's use of Title VI funds raise questions about the Department's intent. This investigation has sent a message to universities across the country that the Department can single them out for burdensome investigations and revoke federal funding if they permit campus activities, curricula, or speech of which the Department disapproves. For the full text of the letter, click here or see below. December 9, 2019 The Honorable Betsy DeVos Secretary of Education U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202 Dear Secretary DeVos: On November 1, 2019, we wrote you to request information about the Department of Education's (the Department) investigation into the Duke-UNC Consortium for Middle East Studies' (Duke-UNC Consortium) 2018 National Resource Center (NRC) proposal and annual project reports (APRs) (Attachment A). While we agreed that the Department must ensure that all federal funds are spent according to law, the circumstances surrounding the Department's investigation into the Duke-UNC Consortium's use of Title VI funds raise questions about the Department's intent. This investigation has sent a message to universities across the country that the Department can single them out for burdensome investigations and revoke federal funding if they permit campus activities, curricula, or speech of which the Department disapproves. Already, the Committee has begun to hear from institutions concerned about this chilling effect. In its recent letter to our Committee, Columbia University wrote that the Department's actions may have the effect, even if unintended, of restricting the range and character of inquiry and expression on campus, precisely the opposite of long-cherished norms of academic freedom and the pluralism of ideas.[i] Despite a deadline of November 15, 2019, the Department of Education, as of the date of this letter, has failed to respond to or even acknowledge our letter, not to mention its document requests. The Department's failure to respond is interfering with the Committee's constitutional authority and duty to conduct oversight and leaves us increasingly concerned as to whether and why the Department is hiding its conduct from Congress. Because of the Department's interference with academic curricula, its silence in response to our first letter, and now its noticed intention to develop new rules to govern free speech and academic inquiry on college campuses,[ii] we reiterate the following requests from our November 1, 2019 letter: Grant Documents: Please provide a copy of any contracts, documents, or paperwork surrounding the awarding of the Duke-UNC Consortium grant and its disbursements during the 2014 and 2018 grant cycles. Please provide Duke-UNC Consortium Annual Project Reports relating to the 2014 and 2018 grant cycles. NRC Review Procedures: Please provide any documents, communications, or internal guidance detailing the Department's standard review procedures for NRC grants. Provide documents sufficient to show whether the Department conducted a peer review of the Duke-UNC Consortium based on the country, thematic focus, international studies, or world region such as Africa, Asia, or the Middle East, as specified in the 2018 NRC Guidelines.[iii] If so, provide a copy of this review and its findings. Provide copies of all other peer reviews the Department conducted for this cohort of grants. Provide documents sufficient to show whether the Department conducted reviews of other NRCs subsequent to the awarding of the 2018 grants. If so, please provide documents sufficient to show all findings from those reviews. Additionally: Since 2018 NRC grants were awarded: How many NRCs, APRs and application grants has the Department reviewed? How many APRs were reviewed from each global area? For FY 2017 and 2018: How many NRCs, APRs and application grants did the Department review? How many APRs were reviewed from each global area? Provide documents sufficient to show the criteria the Department uses to determine whether an academic program advances national security and economic stability. Is it now the Department's interpretation of Title VI that national security and economic stability are the only permissible uses of Title VI funding? If not, what other aims does the Department consider allowable? Provide documents sufficient to show how the Department evaluates whether NRCs have presented the requisite diverse perspectives and/or balance. What are the Department's plans for making the standards and criteria used to evaluate NRC APRs public? The Duke-UNC Consortium Review: Please provide all internal documents and communications that relate to the Department's inquiry into the Duke-UNC Consortium. Please provide all correspondence between the Duke-UNC Consortium (and if relevant, Duke University and the University of North Carolina) and the Department leading up to the September 17 notice, including the Duke-UNC Consortium's June 20, 2019 letter to the Department, and the Department's initial letter prompting the Duke-UNC Consortium's June 20 response. Please provide a list of all appointed Department officials, schedule C or higher, involved in this matter. Secretary DeVos wrote in a June 18, 2019 letter that she would direct the Office of Postsecondary Education to examine the use of funds under this program to determine if the Consortium violated the terms and conditions of the grant,[iv] in response to Rep. George Holding's April 14, 2019 letter.[v] Does the Notice represent the conclusions of this investigation? It appears that around September 24, 2019 the Department disbursed Title VI funding to the Duke-UNC Consortium for 2019-2020,[vi] despite its threat in the Notice to withhold funding.[vii] Why did the Department decide to make this disbursement? Will the Duke-UNC Consortium's funding for upcoming fiscal years be in jeopardy if it fails to follow the Department's directive to expand its offerings to include, in addition to Islamic studies, the study of other religions that are practiced by significant numbers of people in the region?[viii] How will the Department evaluate compliance? What are the Department's benchmarks for acceptable job placement rates that would not indicate bias in Title VI programs? In addition, as you are aware, on November 14, 2019, the Department of Education and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill agreed to resolve[ix] a civil rights complaint that appears to have prompted the Department's investigation into the Duke-UNC Consortium's use of Title VI funds.[x] Despite questions about this very inquiry in our letter, the Department failed to update us on this development. As a result, we additionally ask: With the conclusion of Office for Civil Rights' (OCR) investigation into the University of North Carolina,[xi] does the Department consider the Title VI investigation closed as well? Please provide documents sufficient to show the OCR complaint that triggered this investigation. Please provide all correspondence and memoranda, both internal and external, related to this investigation. There appears to have been a corresponding OCR investigation into Duke University that according to the Department's website,[xii] remains open. Is the Department in similar negotiations with Duke University to settle the complaint? What are the Department's next steps in that investigation? Please provide documents sufficient to show the OCR complaint that triggered this investigation. Please provide all correspondence and memoranda, both internal and external, related to this investigation. We request that you provide all the requested information and documents as soon as possible, but in no case later than December 23, 2019. Please contact Abbas [i] Letter from Ira Katznelson, Interim Provost of Columbia University, to the Honorable Bobby Scott, Virginia Foxx, Lamar Alexander, and Patty Murray (October 30, 2019) (on file with author). [ii] Equal Participation of Faith-Based Organizations in Department of Education Programs and Activities: Implementation of Executive Order 13831, RIN 1840-AD45 (proposed November 2019). [vii] Notice of a Letter Regarding the Duke-UNC Consortium for Middle East Studies, 84 Fed. Reg. 48,919 at 48,921 (Sept. 17, 2019). [viii] Letter from Robert L. King, Assistant Sec'y of Educ., to Middle Eastern Studies Association (October 9, 2019) (on file with author).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-kildee-urges-canada-drop-plan-permanently-store-nuclear-waste,Congressman Dan Kildee Urges Canada to Drop Plan to Permanently Store Nuclear Waste Near Great Lakes,2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Kildee, Bipartisan Group of Members of Congress Write Letter to Canadian Prime Minister Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, today led a letteralong with Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Fred Upton (MI-6), and Paul Mitchell (MI-10) urging Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to oppose placing a permanent nuclear storagerepository near the shared Great Lakes water basin, which is currently being considered by the Canadian government.We stand in strong opposition to any decision by the Canadian government to select or consider a permanent national repository for nuclear waste storage anywhere near the Great Lakes. This is a treasured natural resource each of our countries share and we urge you to stand with us to protect these waters for future generations. Thank you for your consideration of this important request and we look forward to a timely response. the letter reads in part. The full letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is below: Dear Prime Minister Trudeau: We write to you out of deep concern regarding reports that Canada is moving closer to selecting a permanent national repository for harmful nuclear waste along the shores of the Great Lakes. Allowing a permanent nuclear waste storage facility anywhere near the Great Lakes basin, for any amount of time, is a risk we cannot afford to take. The recent reporting also has us greatly concerned that the highest levels of radioactive waste would ultimately be stored at the proposed site. We know that there are other Members of Congress representing districts in the Great Lakes basin who are most concerned by this development and will certainly be joining with us in the days ahead. This is a grave concern. These waters have long united usthey should not divide us. In November, the Energy and Commerce Committee favorably advanced H.R. 2699, the Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2019, to the House for final consideration and it included an important bipartisan amendment that expresses the Sense of Congress that the governments of the United States and Canada should not allow permanent or long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel or other radioactive waste near the Great Lakes. This amendment was unanimously supported and adopted. We stand in strong opposition to any decision by the Canadian government to select or consider a permanent national repository for nuclear waste storage anywhere near the Great Lakes. This is a treasured natural resource each of our countries share and we urge you to stand with us to protect these waters for future generations. Thank you for your consideration of this important request and we look forward to a timely response. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/stabenow-blunt-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-community-mental-health-and-addiction-services-included-in-senate-finance-drug-pricing-and-health-extenders-legislation,"Stabenow, Blunt: Bipartisan Bill to Expand Community Mental Health and Addiction Services Included in Senate Finance Drug Pricing and Health Extenders Legislation",2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Stabenow, Blunt: Bipartisan Bill to Expand Community Mental Health and Addiction Services Included in Senate Finance Drug Pricing and Health Extenders Legislation Monday, December 09, 2019 U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Roy Blunt (R-MO) today announced the inclusion of their bipartisanExcellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Expansion Actin the Senate Finance Committee's bipartisan drug pricing and health extenders legislation. Stabenow and Blunt's bipartisan legislation renews and expands funding for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics. These clinics were established in the 2014Excellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Act, resulting in the most significant expansion of community mental health and addiction services in decades. Thanks to our Excellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Act, we are beginning to transform the way mental health and addiction treatment services are deliveredin communitiesacross the country,said Senator Stabenow.There is an urgent need to immediately extend and expand these vital services so more people can get the care they need at clinics in their communities. I thank Senators Grassley and Wyden on their partnership and for including our legislation in their package. Nearly one in five Americans has a mental health issue that is diagnosable and almost always treatable, but less than half of them receive the care they need, said Senator Blunt. The Excellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Act is helping people get treatment faster and closer to home, providing new tools to law enforcement, and bringing us closer to our goal of treating mental and behavioral health like all other health. I'm confident this demonstration program will show that expanding access to mental and behavioral health care will help lower costs and improve health outcomes over time. I appreciate Senators Grassley and Wyden including this legislation in their package and encourage all of our colleagues to support this effort. Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) are transforming care in many regions because they respond to the urgent needs of people in need of mental health and addiction treatment. We are grateful for the work of Senators Debbie Stabenow, Roy Blunt and many others who want to bring CCBHCs to more people in more states and communities through the Excellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Act, said Chuck Ingoglia, president and CEO of the National Council for Behavioral Health. We also thank Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley and Ranking Member Ron Wyden for recognizing the importance of CCBHCs and including extension and expansion of the program in their package. Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics are required to provide a comprehensive set of services including24/7/365 crisis services, and immediate screenings, risk assessments, and diagnoses. They provide outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment services, as well as coordination of care and partnerships with emergency rooms, law enforcement, and veterans groups. TheExcellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Actcreated a Certified Behavioral Health Center pilot program that provided a competitive process for funding for eight states. The Expansion Act increases the number of eligible states from eight to 19 and gives the eight participating states two years of additional funding through Medicaid. ### Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://andylevin.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andy-levin-votes-strong-support-two-state-solution,Congressman Andy Levin Votes in Strong Support of a Two-State Solution,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Andy Levin,L000592,andylevin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Andy Levin today affirmed his strong support for a two-state solution for democratic, Jewish Israel and a democratic Palestine by voting for H.Res. 326. Last month, Congressman Levin visited Israel and the West Bank and returned with the strengthened conviction that a two-state solution remains achievable and is more important than ever. Congressman Andy Levin spoke on the House Floor today in favor of the bill: ""Last month, I visited Israel and the West Bank. I talked to Israel Defense Forces leaders, Israeli settlers, members of the Knesset from many parties, U.S. Ambassador Friedman, Palestinians' top negotiator Dr. Saeb Erakat, human rights activists and ordinary Israelis and Palestinians. ""My trip left me more committed than ever to seeing in my lifetime a two-state solutiona democratic Jewish state living in peace alongside a democratic Palestine. ""That is why I am here today. ""My colleagues have spoken a lot about the need to safeguard Israel's securitythat's also why I am here. ""We're at a moment when prospects for a peaceful two-state solutionsomething that has long had overwhelming, bipartisan support in this country and from presidents of both parties could be fading. And if we let them fade, prospects for lasting security in Israel will fade, too. Because make no mistake: without a two-state solution, Israel's future as a secure, democratic homeland for the Jewish people will be in jeopardy. And Israelis like the ones I visited in Netiv Ha'asara will continue to live in fear of rocket fire that gives them eight seconds to reach a bomb shelter. ""We need to express our support for a two-state solution, and I thank my colleagues, Representatives Lowenthal, Bass and Connolly for their leadership."" Two weeks ago, Congressman Levin led a letter signed by 107 House Democrats rebuking the State Department's reversal on decades-old policy on Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The members highlighted the policy change as an obstacle to achieving a two-state solution.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/houses-passes-kildee-bill-protect-right-vote,Houses Passes Kildee Bill to Protect the Right to Vote,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bill Seeks to Reverse Voter Suppression Laws, Ensure Every American Has the Right to Vote Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, today applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R. 4, the Voting Rights Advancement Act, which combats voter suppression and restores the full strength of the Voting Rights Act. Congressman Kildee co-sponsored H.R. 4 and strongly supports its passage in the House today. The legislation would restore portions of the Voting Rights Act struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2013 in Shelby County v. Holder. The legislation would ensure that states and jurisdictions with a history of voting rights violations would have to pre-clear any election changes with the U.S. Department of Justice. H.R. 4 is urgently needed to protect the right to vote and ensure that every American can participate in our elections. Since the Shelby County v. Holder decision, at least 23 states have enacted restrictive voting laws, which have been shown to disproportionately impact communities of color. The right to vote is one of the most fundamental rights afforded to every American in our democracy, Congressman Kildee said. Unfortunately, many states continue to pass laws that have suppressed the vote and made it harder for people to vote. This important legislation passed by the House today restores critical portions of the Voting Rights Act to protect the right to vote and make sure that every American can have their voice heard. The passage of H.R. 4 today in the House is the latest action by the Democratic majority to make Congress work for the people. The House has sent U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) more than275 bipartisanbills that the Senate so far has refused to take up, including: H.R. 1, theFor the People Act, to expand voting rights for Americans, reduce the dominance of big money in politics, and ensure that public officials work for the people, not special interests. H.R. 8,Bipartisan Background Checks Act, long-overdue gun violence prevention legislation that requires background checks for gun sales and transfers to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and bad actors. H.R. 7, thePay Check Fairness Act,which strengthens and closes loopholes in existing law, including the 1963 Equal Pay Act, to help ensure that women and men get paid the same if they are doing the same work. H.J. Res 46, aprivileged resolutionto terminate President Trump's national emergency declaration to illegally fund his border wall on the U.S.-Mexico border. H.R. 1585, thereauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act,which seeks to end instances of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking by improving law enforcement response to violence and funding local programs to support victims. H.R. 1644,the Save the Internet Act,which restores net neutrality protections, ensuring that the internet is open to all Americans and free from interference. H.R. 9, theClimate Action Now Act,which requires the Trump Administration to remain in the Paris Climate Accord, a global effort to combat climate change and its impacts. H.R. 986, theProtecting Americans with Pre-Existing Conditions Act,which helps to protect families from predatory junk insurance plans that do not offer comprehensive health care coverage, including coverage for pre-existing conditions. H.R. 987, theStrengthening Health Care and Lowering Prescription Drug Costs Act,which would help to rein in the soaring costs of health care and prescription drugs. H.R. 5, theEquality Act,which would ensure that all Americansincluding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americanswould be protected from discrimination in employment, housing, credit, education, public spaces and services, federally funded programs, and jury service. H.R. 1994, theSECURE Act,which makes it easier for workers to save for retirement and invests in apprenticeship programs that help people get the training and skills they need for high-wage jobs. H.R. 6, theAmerican Dream and Promise Act,which provides a path to lawful permanent resident status, and eventual citizenship, for DREAMers and those with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED). H.R. 2722, theSAFE Act,which strengthens America's election infrastructure and protects voters from potential hacking and manipulation of votes. H.R. 582, theRaise the Wage Act,which would increase the paychecks of all American workers by gradually increasing the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025. H.R. 397, theButch Lewis Act, which would protect the hard-earned retirement benefits of workers by boosting financially-troubled multiemployer pension plans, including the Central State Pension Fund that largely covers Michigan workers. H.R. 4863, the United States Export Finance Agency Act of 2019, which would help to grow Michigan's economy and create local jobs by reauthorizing the Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im), which supports 137 small businesses in Michigan that export $3 billion in products overseas. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2007,"Dingell on House Resolution Reiterating Commitment to Just, Two-State Solution in Israel-Palestine",2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) made the following statement before a House vote on a resolution reaffirming Congress' support to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict: It is critical that we take serious steps to reiterate the United States' commitment toward a just, two-state solution to the conflict that allows both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, side-by-side. Unfortunately, recent developments have put this vision, which remains the only viable framework for a lasting peace in the region, further out of reach. Settlement activity in the West Bank has increasingly threatened the viability of a future Palestinian state in the region, and there is now open talk of Israeli annexation of the Jordan Valley. Settlements erode any possibility of a contiguous, viable Palestinian state. Additionally, the Trump administration's recent move to overturn decades of US policy and legitimize this settlement activity represents a body blow to future peace and prosperity. In addition, the Trump Administration's policies have discredited valid Palestinian claims to also have their capital in Jerusalem. We also cannot forget the humanitarian situation in Gaza, which is untenable. This demands a response and is why this resolution is necessary to underscore, more than ever, the United States' commitment to peace and the right of self-determination not just in the Middle East, but around the world. Peace is never easy, and we must be clear-eyed about the obstacles that remain in resolving this conflict. However, we cannot abandon our commitment to a just, two-state solution doing so would have catastrophic consequences for Israelis, Palestinians, and the region as a whole. Video of her statement is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2008,Dingell: We Must Uphold the Legacy of Those who Fought to Extend Voting Rights,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dingell: We Must Uphold the Legacy of Those who Fought to Extend Voting Rights Washington, December 6, 2019 WASHINGTON, DC Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) released the following statement on the Voting Right's Advancement Act passing the House of Representatives. We must always continue moving forward in the fight to make it easier not harder for all Americans to exercise their right to vote. It's no coincidence that since 2013, when the Supreme Court struck down a key provision in the Voting Rights Act of 1965, we have seen an uptick in voter suppression efforts andpeople turned away from the polls. Hard-working men and women who voted for decades were suddenly denied their right to vote. The most important single right an American has is the right to vote. With the House passage of the Voting Rights Advancement Act, we are carrying on the legacy of all those who fought to extend the right to vote for every American. Our country is strongest when we expand voting rights, not suppress them. TheVoting Rights Advancement Act will restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by developing a process to determine which states must pre-clear election changes with the Department of Justice. It will also require a nationwide, practice-based pre-clearance of known discriminatory practices, including the creation of at-large districts, inadequate multilingual voting materials and cuts to polling places. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2010,Michigan Lawmakers Concerned about Nuclear Waste Storage on Great Lakes,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,,,legacy,"MICHIGAN Today, Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Fred Upton (MI-6), Paul Mitchell (MI-10), and Dan Kildee (MI-5) pressed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in opposition to the placement of a national repository for nuclear waste storage anywhere near the Great Lakes, which is currently being considered by the Canadian government. We stand in strong opposition to any decision by the Canadian government to select or consider a permanent national repository for nuclear waste storage anywhere near the Great Lakes, wrote the lawmakers. This is a treasured natural resource each of our countries share and we urge you to stand with us to protect these waters for future generations. In November, the House Energy and Commerce Committee approved a bipartisan amendment introduced by Dingell and Upton expressing the sense of Congress that the governments of the United States and Canada should not allow permanent or long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel or other radioactive waste near the Great Lakes. A copy of the letter can be found linked here or below: Dear Prime Minister Trudeau: We write to you out of deep concern regarding reports that Canada is moving closer to selecting a permanent national repository for harmful nuclear waste along the shores of the Great Lakes. Allowing a permanent nuclear waste storage facility anywhere near the Great Lakes basin, for any amount of time, is a risk we cannot afford to take. The recent reporting also has us greatly concerned that the highest levels of radioactive waste would ultimately be stored at the proposed site. We know that there are other Members of Congress representing districts in the Great Lakes basin who are most concerned by this development and will certainly be joining with us in the days ahead. This is a grave concern. These waters have long united usthey should not divide us. In November, the Energy and Commerce Committee favorably advanced H.R. 2699, the Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2019, to the House for final consideration and it included an important bipartisan amendment that expresses the Sense of Congress that the governments of the United States and Canada should not allow permanent or long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel or other radioactive waste near the Great Lakes. This amendment was unanimously supported and adopted. We stand in strong opposition to any decision by the Canadian government to select or consider a permanent national repository for nuclear waste storage anywhere near the Great Lakes. This is a treasured natural resource each of our countries share and we urge you to stand with us to protect these waters for future generations. Thank you for your consideration of this important request and we look forward to a timely response. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lawrence.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-representative-brenda-lawrence-votes-restore-preclearance-section,U.S. Representative Brenda Lawrence Votes to Restore Preclearance Section of the Voting Rights Act,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Brenda Lawrence,L000581,lawrence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence (MI-14) voted today to pass H.R. 4, the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2019, critical legislation to restore the full strength of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA), following the disastrous Supreme Court Shelby v. Holder decision, which gutted the VRA's ability to combat voter suppression and discrimination. After the Shelby court decision, several states began the process of imposing voting hurdles mostly in communities of color, said Congresswoman Lawrence. As an African-American woman, it concerns me that we will continue to see these restrictive voting laws unless something is done. It is an honor to join my colleagues to pass this historic legislation, which will restore vital voter protections and help ensure that every eligible voter in Michigan and the nation can have their voices heard. In 2013, in the Shelby v. Holder decision, the U.S. Supreme Court gutted a core part of the VRA and challenged Congress to create a replacement plan to protect African-Americans and other minorities against voter discrimination in the southern former slaveholding states. In its ruling, the Supreme Court declared the preclearance section of the law that was updated by Congress in 2006 was unconstitutional. This is the provision that created the formula that decides which states and locales with a history of racial discrimination need federal approval before changing their voting laws The Voting Rights Advancement Act establishes a policy to determine which states must change their voting procedures that were precleared by the Department of Justice or a federal court. If a threat of racial discrimination is present, this legislation provides the Attorney General with the authority to request federal observers to oversee voting. The Voting Rights Advancement Act subjects a state and all of its political subdivisions to preclearance of voting revisions for a 10-year period if: 15 or more voting rights violations occurred in the state during the previous 25 years; 10 or more violations occurred during the previous 25 years, at least one of which was committed by the state itself. A political subdivision shall also be subject to preclearance for a 10-year period if three or more voting rights violations occurred there during the previous 25 years; Increases transparency by requiring reasonable public notice for voting changes; and Allows the Attorney General the authority to request the presence of federal observers anywhere in the county where there is a serious threat of racial discrimination in voting. An extensive congressional review found that since the Shelby County decision, at least 23 states have enacted restrictive statewide voting laws that have been shown to have a disproportionate impact on communities of color. Some of the suppressive voting laws include: strict voter identification; unfairly purging voters from voter rolls; curtailing early voting hours; and moving or eliminating polling sites. The Voting Rights Advancement Act is supported by more than 60 national organizations including the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, the ACLU, AFL-CIO, UAW, End Citizens United Fund, and AFSCME. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://tlaib.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tlaib-statement-revere-copper-site-collapse-detroit-river,Congresswoman Tlaib Statement on Revere Copper Site Collapse into Detroit River,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Rashida Tlaib,T000481,tlaib.house.gov,,,legacy,"DETROIT Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib released the following statement regarding the collapse of a contaminated site into the Detroit River near a water intake site: This week, my team and I became aware of the collapse of dock at the Revere Copper site into the Detroit River near an intake site for a water system that services millions of people across Michigan. It is alarming that we, like many others, only became aware of this through a news report a week after the incident occurred at a site that once processed radioactive materials. My office has been in contact with the EPA's Region 5 office as well as the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. Both the EPA and EGLE have made assurances to our office that based on testing done by the Department of Energy and EPA in the 1980s as the site was decommissioned and testing done by EGLE in April of this year, there is no current risk of exposure to radioactive material.I am also aware that testing for radiation at the site was conducted by EGLE, EPA, and the FBI today, and that they have informed my office that no radiation was found today. This afternoon, I sent a letter to both EPA and EGLE requesting additional information of past testing and in-depth information on what health and environmental risks may exist due to the collapse, including any risks to our public drinking water system. In the spirit of transparency and trust, it is imperative that these agencies are as forthcoming and engaging with the public as possible with what is going on and what has occurred. The public deserves nothing less. Those assurances notwithstanding, there are still major unanswered questions about what was spilled into the river when the dock collapsed, what pollutants may have been exposed by the collapse and disturbance of the river bed, and what testing and remediation will take place to ensure the site is safe and that the collapse has not endangered our public health. Detroit Bulk Storage and Revere Dock LLC have put their own profits ahead of the public's well-being by not following processes that protect public health and our environment. They did not notify officials of the incident, instead working to cover up the collapse without proper safety equipment. Our residents don't deserve to continue to be dumped on by corporate polluters with no accountability, and I expect the owners and operators of this site to be held accountable swiftly, including by providing answers about what happened to the public and paying for any cleanup and remediation that is necessary. Moreover, I have significant concerns about the delay in both notifying the public about this collapse and the government regulatory agencies' response, as it appears that EPA and EGLE found out about the collapse through media inquiries from the Windsor Star. EGLE has primary responsibility for the response and any cleanup, and EPA has committed to supporting EGLE in any way it can. EGLE is on site today and its response is ongoing, and EGLE will provide another update to our office and local stakeholders on Monday. EGLE has committed to working with the Great Lakes Water Authority and Detroit Water and Sewage Department to understand their water testing procedures and ensure there is no threat to our public drinking water. GLWA today issued a statement confirming that they will be testing water at their facilities for radionucleotides. This incident appears to be yet another example of the need to have tight safeguards for industry, especially those who operate near resources that millions depend out. Every family should have clean air and clean water any incident that endangers that should be given the utmost urgency. My office will continue to push for answers and ensure that no one is being put in harm's way, urge EPA and EGLE to conduct all necessary testing to ensure public health, and will relay information to the public as soon as we are able. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-presses-trump-administration-to-expedite-approved-pfas-study-in-western-michigan-secures-commitment-to-review-holdup-from-trump-nominee-at-confirmation-hearing,"Peters Presses Trump Administration to Expedite Approved PFAS Study in Western Michigan, Secures Commitment to Review Holdup from Trump Nominee at Confirmation Hearing",2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.19 Peters Presses Trump Administration to Expedite Approved PFAS Study in Western Michigan, Secures Commitment to Review Holdup from Trump Nominee at Confirmation Hearing WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) this week pressed the Trump Administration to expedite the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) review of a PFAS health study examining contaminated communities across western Michigan. During the confirmation hearing for Paul Ray, nominated to be Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA), Peters secured a commitment to review the holdup and urged an expedited review of the PFAS health study examining contaminated sites in communities across western Michigan in Parchment, Cooper Township and North Kent County. Peters previously supported the Michigan State Department of Health and Human Services' application to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to receive a $1 million grant for the project. Once they receive approval from the Trump Administration, researchers will work to gain a better understanding of the connections between PFAS contamination and certain illnesses, and to spread awareness of the health risks PFAS poses to communities in Michigan and around the nation. During Ray's confirmation hearing this week, Peters Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee said, A recent report suggests that OMB and OIRA are holding up the progress on a federal assessment of the human health effects of drinking water exposure to PFAS This project is especially important for Michiganders because the townships of Parchment and Cooper, as well as North Kent County all of them are dealing with very significant PFAS contamination and they were selected to participate in the study and the results will inform efforts to address drinking water contamination not just in Michigan but contamination all across the country.I am concerned that OMB and OIRA'snon-transparent review has unnecessarily delayed this studyWill you commit, if confirmed, to an expedited review so that we can quickly move forward and give the urgency that the PFAS contamination crisis deserves? Ray said: Senator, certainly if confirmed [to lead OIRA on an official basis], I would certainly be happy to do that. Click here for Peters' full exchange with former Acting Administrator Ray: Peters has led numerous efforts in Congress to address PFAS contamination in Michigan and around the country, including oversight work through his role as Ranking Member of the Senate's top oversight committee.Peters secured provisions through theNational Defense Authorization Act of 2020to help address PFAS that passed the Senate in June. Included were provisions to prevent the Department of Defense (DOD) from buying firefighting foams that contain PFAS after October 1, 2022, and to encourage DOD to finalize cooperative agreements with states to address PFAS contamination originating from DOD activities. This measure is similar tobipartisan legislation that Peters introducedin May with Senator Debbie Stabenow and other colleagues. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-raise-concerns-over-potential-canadian-nuclear-waste-sites,"Peters, Stabenow Raise Concerns Over Potential Canadian Nuclear Waste Sites",2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Gary Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.19 Peters, Stabenow Raise Concerns Over Potential Canadian Nuclear Waste Sites WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) released the following statements raising concerns after the Nuclear Waste Management Organization in Canada announced potential sites to store nuclear waste near Lake Huron: The Great Lakes provide drinking water to over 40 million people and are part of who we are as Michiganders. That's why we need to do everything we can to protect the Great Lakes for future generations. I am extremely concerned about the possibility of hazardous nuclear waste being stored near the Great Lakes. Any accident could have catastrophic and long-term consequences to the health and well-being of Michigan and the country. I urge the Nuclear Waste Management Organization in Canada to reconsider naming a finalist location so close to the Great Lakes,said Senator Peters. This makes no sense. Canada has as much at stake as we do in protecting our Great Lakes. There is no justification for a nuclear waste site so close to Lake Huron to even be under consideration. I will reach out to the Canadian government as I have in the past when I led efforts to stop the last nuclear waste storage proposal. I am hopeful they will be willing to recognize and respect the deep concerns of the people of Michigan, said Senator Stabenow. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/stabenow-young-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-address-social-determinants-of-health-,"Stabenow, Young Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Address Social Determinants of Health",2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Stabenow,S000770,www.stabenow.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Stabenow, Young Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Address Social Determinants of Health Friday, December 06, 2019 U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Todd Young (R-Ind.) introduced legislation that would empower states and local governments to improve health outcomes by addressing the economic and social conditions in which people live, learn, work, and play. The Social Determinants Accelerator Act would establish a federal interagency council to better leverage existing programs and address the barriers to coordination between health and social services programs. The bill would also help states and localities to develop innovative strategies to address social determinants in their communities. Families know that staying healthy takes much more than just going to the doctor. Investing in nutrition services, housing, transportation, and good-paying jobs will make sure Americans have the resources they need to take care of their families. This bipartisan bill will improve the lives of Michiganders and expand Americans' access to comprehensive health care, said Senator Stabenow. A person's health should not be dependent on where they live or the economic challenges they face, said Senator Young. This bipartisan bill will help our communities find solutions to challenges, such as reliable transportation and affordable housing, that negatively impact the health and well-being of our most vulnerable citizens. Social determinants of health are the economic and social conditions that affect an individual's health and well-being, such as access to reliable transportation and stable housing. Addressing these factors can have a meaningful impact on the prevention and management of chronic diseases in our communities. The Social Determinants Accelerator Act aims to address the social determinants of health by providing up to $20 million for state, local and tribal governments to develop strategies that target social determinants negatively impacting our most vulnerable populations. The legislation also establishes a federal interagency council to help grantees with identifying federal authorities, opportunities and strategies to tackle these challenges. The complete text of the legislation can be found here. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-kildee-moving-forward-articles-impeachment-against,Statement by Congressman Dan Kildee on Moving Forward with Articles of Impeachment Against President Donald J. Trump,2019-12-05,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, issued the following statement after the Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi announced that the U.S. House of Representatives will move forward with articles of impeachment against President Donald J. Trump: This is a serious and solemn moment in our nation's history. Moving forward on impeachment against the President of the United States should always be a tool of last resort to defend our Constitution. Sadly, this is the moment we now find ourselves in. After reviewing the Intelligence Committee report and watching the testimony of witnesses in the impeachment inquiry, I support the relevant committees moving forward with drafting articles of impeachment. When articles are presented to Members of Congress and the American people, I will closely review them, alongside the facts, before ultimately casting my vote. The facts presented to the American people are clear: The President of the United States, by his own admission, used his office to pressure a foreign government into investigating a political opponent. In doing so, the President endangered our national security by withholding critical military assistance for his own personal gain. Senior White House officials, career foreign service officers and national security officials have all presented evidence of the President's abuse of power. As a Member of Congress, I took an oath to protect and defend the Constitution. I take my oathto defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domesticvery seriously. That is why I believe the House must take these necessary steps in order to hold the President accountable for his abuse of power and betrayal of his own oath of office. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z