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://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-celebrates-gold-butte-designation,Rep. Titus Celebrates Gold Butte Designation,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 28, 2016
Las Vegas – Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District celebrated the designation of Gold Butte National Monument by President Obama. Rep. Titus has sponsored legislation in Congress and championed greater protections at Gold Butte for more than a decade.
“Gold Butte’s story is one of perseverance and passion,” Rep. Titus said.  “Since the effort to protect Gold Butte began in 1998, a network of a few dozen Nevadans has turned into a powerful coalition dedicated to protecting the region’s ancient petroglyphs, colorful geology, iconic wildlife, and unique flora.  President Obama heard our cry and took the necessary action to save this natural treasure. I am relieved that our glorious piece of the Grand Canyon now has the protection it needs and deserves so its magnificent resources can be preserved for generations to come.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-announces-812500-hhs-grant-to-help-underserved,"Rep. Titus Announces $812,500 HHS Grant to Help Underserved",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 16, 2016
Las Vegas – Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced that the Department of Health and Human Services will award a $812,500 grant to Silver State Health Services, a local nonprofit community care provider.  
The Access Point Grant Award will help an estimated 4,392 patients in Southern Nevada and is part of an effort to improve the health of underserved communities and vulnerable populations. The grant will provide Silver State Health Services and other health care centers across the country with more resources for comprehensive care and access to pharmacies, counseling, and oral health professionals.
“One out of 13 people in the U.S relies on community care centers for quality health care services,” Rep. Titus said. “These funds will help to ensure that everyone in our community, including the most vulnerable, is able to access care when and where they need it.”  
Nearly 1,400 health centers operating in over 9,800 sites provide care to more than 24 million people across the nation, in every U.S. state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Pacific Basin, according to HHS. Today, health centers employ nearly 190,000 people.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-applauds-blm-move-to-protect-city,Titus Applauds BLM Move to Protect City,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 15, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Titus Applauds BLM Move to Protect ‘City’  
	Las Vegas – Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District applauded the Bureau of Land Management’s decision to incorporate a 1,316 acre plot of private land as part of Basin and Range National Monument. 
The land is home to “City,” one of the most important pieces of contemporary artworks in history. Nevada artist Michael Heizer has spent nearly 50 years of his life on the project which will now share the same protections as the desert landscapes and wildlife within Basin and Range National Monument. 
“Today’s announcement is a significant step in the preservation of this important piece of art and the conservation of a special piece of our nation’s public lands,“ said Rep. Titus, who championed the effort to designate the Basin and Range National Monument. “The landscapes of Basin and Range and ‘City’ deserve to stand together in the desert, representing the nexus of public art and public space for generations to come.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/two-southern-nevada-colleges-to-participate-in-education-department-study-on-school,Two Southern Nevada Colleges to Participate in Education Department Study on School Loans,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 15, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas – Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced that two of Southern Nevada’s post-secondary institutions will participate in a U.S. Department of Education loan counseling program to teach students more about incurring debt while going to school. 
The College of Southern Nevada and Nevada State College will join 49 other schools across the country in the counseling program which aims to collect new data on student finances while improving students’ decision making about borrowing, promoting successful loan repayments, and impacting academic performance. 
Around 100,000 students will participate in the counseling program. Schools will either work with counselors from the Department of Education, third-party services, or institutionally developed programs. They will then measure the effects between those students who receive extra counseling and those who only receive what is statutorily required.
“Nearly half of all students attending post-secondary schools in Nevada walk away with considerable debt,” Rep. Titus said. “We must do more to protect students from incurring hefty financial liabilities with no clear understanding of their potential impact down the road. I applaud the Department of Education for initiating this program to collect data and ensure our future leaders have a firm understanding of how to best manage their finances in college and beyond.”  
The Department is launching this project under the experimental sites authority of section 487A(b) of the Higher Education Act which allows the Department to test the effectiveness of statutory and regulatory flexibility for postsecondary institutions that participate in the federal financial aid program. Rep. Titus voted for an extension of this legislation in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-leads-bipartisan-request-for-audit-of-federal-animal-research-programs,Rep. Titus leads bipartisan request for audit of federal animal research programs,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 13, 2016
Las Vegas -- Congresswoman Dina Titus sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) last week requesting a study of costs and other details about animal research conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs and other federal agencies. The letter was co-led by Rep. Ken Calvert (R-CA), chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies, and signed by a bipartisan group of 11 other members.
The GAO audit request reads, in part:
“Recent cases of abuse, waste and accountability gaps documented by independent organizations have highlighted the need for additional scrutiny of intramural animal research programs at federal facilities….[W]e have discovered it is impossible to determine what federal animal research programs currently entail, what they cost and if they meet federal standards because of the limited and decentralized information available publicly.”
Rep. Titus’ letter requests a study to assess spending on animal research in government laboratories—currently estimated at more than $1 billion—and a critical review of existing systems for informing Congress and the public about the purpose, methods, cost and outcomes of government animal research. The request also seeks information about the number of animals used, how violations are reported, and investments in superior and cost-effective alternatives to animal testing.
Federal agencies acknowledge that much animal research is wasteful, but critical information needed to identify unnecessary projects is not publicly available.
The GAO request was co-signed by Reps. Beyer (D-VA), Costello (R-PA), Grijalva (D-AZ), McCollum (D-MN), Marino (R-PA), Paulsen (R-MN), Roybal-Allard (D-CA), Royce (R-CA), Simpson (R-ID), Tsongas (D-MA) and Walters (R-CA).
The full letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/in-veterans-omnibus-bill-measure-passes-to-get-more-medical-professionals-working-at,"In Veterans Omnibus bill, Measure Passes to Get More Medical Professionals Working at the VA in Southern Nevada",2016-12-06,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 16, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District applauded the passage of H.R. 6416, an omnibus measure that will improve health, education, and administrative programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Southern Nevada and around the country. 
Rep. Titus, a member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, sponsored a measure in the bill allowing the VA to continue increasing the number of medical residencies at the department’s healthcare facilities until 2024.    
	   
	With the inaugural class of the UNLV School of Medicine beginning in 2017, the legislation will provide opportunities for residents to treat veterans in Southern Nevada.  The bill will extend a provision authored by Rep. Titus and signed into law two years ago that expands the number of graduate medical education (GME) slots at the VA by 1,500. That measure was set to expire in 2019 but will now continue for an additional five years. 
“Our veterans deserve greater access to VA health care professionals in Las Vegas,” Rep. Titus said. “This legislation will give medical school residents at UNLV an opportunity to work with the VA, develop an expertise in specialized fields, and thereby ease the burden on our current system.” 
""This is fantastic news,"" said Barbara Atkinson, MD, founding dean of UNLV School of Medicine. ""We need residency programs in Southern Nevada so our students will stay in the state after they finish their training.""
The measure, which has support from the Association of American Medical Colleges, highlights the need for Nevada to address its shortage of physicians in the public and private sectors.  
Studies show that doctors are more likely to continue their career in the city where they perform their residency. Expanding residency slots in areas like Southern Nevada will help ensure a steady flow of doctors will meet the needs of our expanding veterans’ population. 
The state must increase its number of physicians by 46 percent just to reach the national rate of 327 doctors per 100,000 people, according to the 2014 physician workforce report from the University Of Nevada School Of Medicine.
The Omnibus bill passed the House by a 419-0 vote. 
The Senate is expected to approve the measure in the coming days and send it to President Obama’s desk.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-elected-to-house-democratic-steering-and-policy-committee,Rep. Titus Elected to House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee,2016-12-02,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 2, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Washington, D.C. – Yesterday Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District was elected by members of the House Democratic Caucus to serve as a Regional Member on the powerful Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. Congresswoman Titus will serve as the regional representative for the Mountain West and Pacific Northwest Region which includes Nevada, replacing outgoing member Congressman Peter DeFazio of Oregon. In her role, the Congresswoman will help decide committee leadership and assignments for the 115th Congress and be the voice for the region in policy development for the Democratic Caucus. 
“As we face the challenges of the incoming 115th Congress and the uncertainties of a Trump Administration, I will be promoting an agenda that advances bedrock Democratic values like protecting Social Security and Medicare, creating jobs, fixing our broken immigration system, and investing in our crumbling infrastructure. I also look forward to helping our party become more responsive to the needs of rural and small town America. Finally, I will push for our region’s members to get committee assignments which both take advantage of their expertise and allow them to better serve their districts.”  
	    
	Congresswoman Dina Titus was first elected to Congress in 2008. As the representative for District 1, which is the heart of the Las Vegas Valley, Dina currently serves on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and the House Committee on Veterans Affairs where she is the Ranking Democrat on the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. In addition, the Congresswoman serves on the Democratic Senior Whip Team and is co-chair of the I-11 Caucus, the Public Works and Infrastructure Caucus, and the Travel and Tourism Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-announces-14-million-grant-for-unlv-to-study-high-speed-rail-systems,Rep. Titus Announces $1.4 Million Grant for UNLV to Study High-Speed Rail Systems,2016-12-01,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 1, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Washington, D.C. – Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) selected the University of Nevada Las Vegas to participate in a research consortium to examine effective design, construction, and maintenance of future high-speed rail projects.   
	The DOT will initially fund the consortium, which also includes the University of Delaware and Virginia Tech, with a $1.4 million grant for FY16.   
	UNLV will focus on studying bridge building near areas of seismic activity, track alignment, rail foundations, and more. Congresswoman Titus voted to support the program in the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act and advocated with Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx for UNLV to be a participant. 
  
	“Our nation’s deteriorating rail infrastructure is threatening our economy, security, and safety,” Rep. Titus said. “This consortium will reverse course by helping advance the development of high-speed rail projects that meet the demands of the 21st Century. With its longstanding rail program, UNLV is well positioned to galvanize high-speed railways in the desert Southwest and partner with academic institutions that have the common goal of deploying safe and innovative projects across the nation.”  
BACKGROUND
This grant is one of 35 that will be awarded to lead consortia under the University Transportation Centers (UTC) program, reauthorized by Sec. 6016 of the FAST Act. Subsequent funding will be subject to availability and appropriations. Assoc. Professor Hualiang “Harry” Teng of UNLV’s Howard R. Hughes College of Engineering will lead the effort.  
	Rep. Titus has long been a champion of high-speed rail and served on the California-Nevada Super Speed Train Commission for over a decade. She is currently advocating for the expansion of Amtrak from Las Vegas to Southern California in the interim while continuing to work to link the two destinations with a major super-speed train.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-we-must-protect-immigrants-in-our-schools,Rep. Titus: We Must Protect Immigrants In Our Schools,2016-12-01,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 1, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District issued the following statement to denounce any threats aimed at immigrant students in Southern Nevada and commend the recent promise by UNLV President Len Jessup to support the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program and undocumented immigrant students attending the university. 
  
	“As questions emerge about the future of our immigration policy under the Trump Administration, I want to thank President Jessup and UNLV for pledging to support all of our students, and I ask him to continue standing up against hate on campus and in our community.  No student on campus should feel threatened or intimidated by their teachers, staff, or fellow students.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-rossi-ralenkotter-s-selection-as-inaugural-member-of-the-national,Titus Statement on Rossi Ralenkotters Selection as Inaugural Member of the National Advisory Committee on Travel and Tourism Infrastructure,2016-11-10,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"November 10, 2016
Las Vegas – Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District applauded the selection of Rossi Ralenkotter, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority President and CEO, as an inaugural member of the National Advisory Committee on Travel and Tourism Infrastructure. (NACTTI)
The U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx selected Ralenkotter and other industry leaders to the two-year position in an effort to develop a national strategy for ensuring that our transportation policies align with the needs of travelers.
Congresswoman Titus, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, spearheaded the creation of the NACTTI with an amendment to the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act of 2015, which was signed into law by President Obama in December of last year.
“There is no better advocate for Las Vegas and our nation’s travel industry than Rossi,” Rep. Titus said. “He has been a pacesetter in the field for more than four decades and a valuable resource for expanding the Southern Nevada economy. The committee will greatly benefit from his knowledge and passion.”   
“Tourism is reliant on safe and efficient transportation infrastructure, so our industry leaders are excited to have a role in providing our insight to the Department of Transportation and transportation agencies across the country,” said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. “It is an honor to represent the tourism industry on this new advisory committee. Thank you to Congresswoman Titus for her continued commitment to Las Vegas and the tourism industry and her leadership in transportation improvements.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-announces-34-million-school-improvement-grant-for-nevada,Rep. Titus Announces $3.4 Million School Improvement Grant for Nevada,2016-11-07,2016,2016-11,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"November 7, 2016
Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced that the U.S. Department of Education awarded the state a $3,447,309 School Improvement Grant (SIG) to help rapidly increase student achievement in underperforming public schools.
The Nevada Department of Education will distribute the Title 1 funds to qualifying districts to help increase the total percentage of students proficient in math and reading and improve graduation rates. The State will use the funds to hire new personnel and provide more tools to teachers throughout Nevada.
“These critical funds have a track record of galvanizing under-performing schools across the nation,” Rep. Titus said. “They will give teachers and administrators more resources to improve student achievement and prepare our future leaders for life after K-12.”
The grant is part of a $427,500 million effort by the U.S. Department of Education to improve student success. Rep. Titus voted in support of the funds in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-announces-900000-grant-to-salvation-army-for-fighting-human-trafficking,"Rep. Titus Announces $900,000 Grant to Salvation Army for Fighting Human Trafficking",2016-10-14,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"October 14, 2016
Washington D.C.—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced that the Department of Justice has awarded $900,000 to the Salvation Army Seeds of Hope Program for combating human trafficking.
The funds will support the development and enhancement of a task force to combat sex and labor trafficking of foreign nationals and U.S. citizens.  The Salvation Army will work in tandem with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department on the project.
“Local partnerships can play a key role in the fight against human trafficking,” Rep. Titus said. “These funds will help implement collaborative approaches to prosecute sex and labor trafficking while addressing the needs of victims. This is another valuable effort to help our nation eradicate modern-day slavery from society.”
Background
According to the United Nation’s International Labour Organization, 21 million people worldwide, including 5.5 million children, are reported victims of human trafficking. Cases in the United States are increasing with an estimated 17,500 people subject to sex and labor trafficking every year. The National Human Trafficking Resource Center, a nationwide hotline, reported a 10% increase in cases in 2015, with 6,000 cases being reported.
Nevada is among the leading states for cases of reported human trafficking. In 2013, there were 81 reported cases of trafficking. In 2015, those numbers increased to 133 reported cases, a quarter of which involved children under 18. Of those 133 reported cases, 114 involved sexual exploitation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-announces-19-million-to-reduce-sexual-assault-kit-backlog,Rep. Titus Announces $1.9 Million to Reduce Sexual Assault Kit Backlog,2016-10-06,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"October 6, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced that the Department of Justice has awarded the Nevada Attorney General’s Office a $1,962,414 grant to continue the state’s participation in the National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI).
The state will use the funds to enhance and expand its current effort to reduce the sexual assault kit backlog in Nevada. The grant will increase resources for investigators and prosecutors, provide a statewide assessment of current policies to prevent future backlogs, and create new training programs for law enforcement. The funds will be used to hire a Sexual Assault Resource Prosecutor, a victim advocate, and other personnel.
“This effort shows sexual assault victims that law enforcement is working to bring them justice,” Rep. Titus said. “I applaud the DOJ for continuing to provide the state these much needed resources for addressing the current backlog and building a better community response system for the future. Justice for victims cannot wait while kits remain on a shelf.”
BACKGROUND:
In 2015, the state received a similar award from the DOJ to inventory and test backlogged kits and fund supportive victim services and investigative functions within the jurisdiction of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) Crime Lab in Southern Nevada. Nevada will use this award to expand its SAKI program to effectively resolve the statewide issue of untested sexual assault kits. The Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) was established by the Obama Administration in the President’s 2015 Budget Request. That year, Congress funded the grant program at $41 million. The SAKI is funded with appropriations for programs at the Department of Justice under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which was modernized and reauthorized by Rep. Titus and her colleagues in 2013 by a vote of 286-138.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-supreme-court-rejecting-obama-administration-s-request-to-rehear,Titus Statement on Supreme Court Rejecting Obama Administrations Request to Rehear Immigration Case,2016-10-03,2016,2016-10,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"October 3, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District issued the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court decided to not rehear United States v. Texas, the obstructionist lawsuit preventing the Obama Administration from expanding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) initiative and creating the Deferred Action for Parents of Americans (DAPA) program. The Court, missing one justice, reached a tie decision on the case in June, blocking the implementation of the Obama Administration’s efforts to keep families together.
“I am disappointed that the Supreme Court rejected the request by the Obama Administration,” Rep. Titus said. “For years, millions of families have had to remain in the shadows because of the GOP’s refusal to pass comprehensive immigration reform in Congress. Obstructionist Republicans have made the situation even worse with this politically driven lawsuit and by refusing to hold nomination hearings for Judge Garland in the Senate. It’s time Republicans start thinking about what’s best for families in the U.S. and do their job.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-announces-239998-grant-for-unlv-talent-search-program,"Rep. Titus Announces $239,998 Grant for UNLV Talent Search Program",2016-09-29,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"September 29, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Washington D.C.—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced the U.S. Department of Education will award the University of Nevada Las Vegas a $239,998 grant to encourage and assist Clark County School District students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue post-secondary education.   
	UNLV will coordinate the effort with four CCSD schools: Chaparral High School, Eldorado High School, O’Callaghan Middle School, and Woodbury Middle School. The program will provide academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourage students to graduate from high school and complete post-secondary education.
  
	“As a long-time professor, I know the value of providing counseling and support to students from all walks of life,” Rep. Titus said. “I applaud the Department of Education, UNLV, and CCSD for embarking on a partnership that will offer more opportunities for Southern Nevada students to develop their leadership skills and succeed in their educational pursuits.”   
	   
	BACKGROUND:  
	The program will last for five years and annually receive similar amounts of funding. The program publicizes the availability of financial aid and assists participants with the post-secondary application process. Talent Search also encourages people who have not completed education programs at the secondary or post-secondary level to enter or re-enter and complete post-secondary education.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/beagle-blinding-killing-leaves-animal-experimentation-proponents-on-the-defensive,"Beagle blinding, killing leaves animal experimentation proponents on the defensive",2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"CBS News’ recent exposure of waste of your and my tax dollars on a cruel experiment designed in such a way as to be ineffective before it was even begun may be the single-most critical event in the fight to stop government funding of animal experiments in months, or even years.
For those unfamiliar, the University of Missouri is being sued for allegedly blinding, and then killing when the experiment went awry, six beagles. Prior to their deaths, the six dogs—a number insufficient to provide any meaningful scientific insight—had acid dripped into their eyes. The experiment, like so many others, was paid for using your and my tax money, and generated a huge amount of media attention and social media chatter.
Now, it appears that groups and individuals known for advancing spurious theories and rumored to be astroturfer targets, including some so-called conservatives who have evidently found a new line of wasteful government spending to embrace, are stepping up their advocacy for this kind of nonsense, which remains completely indefensible—on scientific inquiry, fiscal responsibility, and anti-cruelty grounds. Americans who care about how government spends our money, about animal rights, and about real scientific inquiry that informs and pushes the boundaries of human knowledge, should be on guard and not buy what’s being sold.
Taxpayer funding of animal experiments is not a partisan issue, but it is one that has real resonance with both progressives, keen to see taxpayer money spent on items like health care and education while preventing the constant flow of government cash that imperils our furry friends more than anything else these days, and conservatives, who should oppose all government waste on spec, in the name of limited government and fiscal conservatism. There’s a reason that principled leaders, whether Rep. Dina Titus or Sen. Jeff Flake, oppose running monkeys on treadmills until they become sick or dropping loads of taxpayer cash on hooking them on crack.
The truth is, lobbying and advocacy aimed at maintaining or expanding the $12 billion a year minimum the U.S. government spends poking and prodding our furry friends isn’t about saving human lives, or groundbreaking scientific inquiry, or avoiding another Holocaust (a novel claim of experimentation advocates). It is literally about keeping the gravy train flowing for 1 percenter inhabitants of ivory towers who don’t care how much they waste, or how ridiculous or non-informative their often duplicative, repetitive “research” is. This is why, in the coming months, you can expect to see more hyperbolic emotive calls for maintaining, or even doubling down on, the status quo. And it’s why rational people across the philosophical spectrum should ignore them.
Progressives and conservatives alike must reject calls to keep the trough full, and start calling for at least some of that $12 billion to be put to better use: Whether it’s countering the Zika virus, taking the opioid crisis head-on, paying down the national debt, better funding care for our veterans or our kids or our poor, giving Americans a small tax rebate, or even just fueling federal government workers with more ice cold Diet Cokes, there is no shortage of better things to do with this money, which is yours and mine.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/former-nevada-first-lady-bonnie-bryan-dies-at-77,Former Nevada first lady Bonnie Bryan dies at 77,2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bonnie Fairchild Bryan, 26th First Lady of Nevada and wife of former Gov. and Sen. Richard Bryan, died Tuesday, according to a statement from the Bryan family. She was 77.
She died of leukemia and was surrounded by her husband and family, according to the release.
Bonnie Bryan is survived by her husband and three children.
Funeral services are pending.
Bryan family spokesman Greg Ferraro said in the release: ""Married to Senator Bryan for 54 years, Bonnie, with her kindness and authentic warmth, left an indelible mark on the State she loved so much.”
Frankie Sue Del Papa, secretary of state during Richard Bryan's tenure as governor, issued this statement: “Whenever I introduced Bonnie and Dick together, I always said we were so fortunate because Nevada got two for the price of one. Bonnie was just so steadfast. She loved every part of this state. But most importantly she loved Dick enough to be by his side every single chance she conceivably could.”
Nevada State Democratic Party Chair Roberta Lange and Regent Sam Lieberman released the following joint statement:
“Bonnie Bryan was a woman of valor who built a remarkable life focused on her family, her faith, and the citizens of Nevada. She was a champion for Senator Bryan and the issues he fought for, but she was also a strong and compassionate voice in her own right for our state and our party. Bonnie loved the Women’s Democratic Club, and she cared deeply about building a stronger Democratic Party and valuing the work of our grassroots supporters across the state. She may have been our First Lady, but Bonnie never acted better than anyone else — she was charming, personable and made best friends everywhere she went.
“We extend our love and deepest condolences to Senator Bryan and his family during this difficult time. Bonnie will be greatly missed.”
From Rep. Dina Titus: ""A light went out in the Las Vegas firmament with the loss of Bonnie Bryan. Her effervescent nature, charming wit, and generous heart will long be remembered. She set the gold standard.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/group-wasted-82m-in-bailout-funds-meant-for-nevadans,Group wasted $8.2M in bailout funds meant for Nevadans,2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"A nonprofit that was supposed to distribute most of the $202 million that Nevada got in a recession-era government bailout has ""a pervasive culture of waste and abuse"" and has been spending as much money on itself as on homeowners trying to avoid foreclosure, according to federal auditors.
Officials with the U.S. Treasury's Troubled Asset Relief Program said Nevada should immediately stop using the nonprofit to administer Hardest Hit Funds and return $8.2 million in wasted money back to the account. Most of that figure represents overhead costs, billed to the bailout fund, that held steady even though the nonprofit's client list dropped 94 percent from its peak year.
The nonprofit ""used the program as a cash cow for every expense imaginable while all but stopping admitting new homeowners,"" according to the report issued by Special Inspector General Christy Goldsmith Romero, which said the agency demonstrated ""a sense of entitlement and no appreciation for the fact that it was taking funds for itself from the homeowners the program intended to help.""
The Nevada Housing Division, which oversees the nonprofit, said they're requesting an attorney general investigation into the situation.
Nevada suffered the highest unemployment rate in the country during the recession and was one of the first states to receive money from the Hardest Hit Fund, which aimed to stabilize communities during the housing crisis. While about 20 percent of Nevada homeowners remain underwater, owing more than their homes are worth, the nonprofit is behind pace on disbursing all the bailout funds by the end of 2017.
The report issued Friday says the contractor, the Nevada Affordable Housing Assistance Corporation, spent thousands of dollars on employee parties and upscale restaurants and paid $500 a month toward its CEO's Mercedes Benz. At the same time, its performance was falling.
Nevada estimated the Hardest Hit Fund could help nearly 24,000 homeowners in the years following the recession, but later scaled back those expectations. It helped only 117 homeowners in all of 2015, even though 688 applications came in.
The contractor also moved into a larger office in the more expensive North Las Vegas City Hall shortly after reducing its staff. The nonprofit broke its $11,200-per-month lease a year later after deciding that it didn't need so much room — a move that cost about $40,000 in lawyer fees, moving expenses and office furniture costs.
Auditors faulted the Nevada Housing Division for letting the activities go unchecked, although the division provided a memo from October 2015 indicating it was previously shut out of many of the nonprofit's decisions and had been raising red flags about the organization for two years.
Democratic Rep. Dina Titus echoed auditors' concerns and vowed to follow up on their findings. She said she'd long been skeptical of the state's ""bloated"" system for disbursing the funds.
""I am angered by the Nevada Housing Division's lack of oversight and greatly disturbed that money meant to aid struggling Nevadans was squandered on parties, gift cards, and luxury items,"" said Titus. ""The state's indiscretion highlighted in the report may jeopardize its future ability to garner federal assistance that can help Nevada families.""
Officials with the Nevada Department of Business and Industry, which includes the Nevada Housing Division, said they think some of the expenses criticized in the audit are allowable under federal law, meaning far less than $8.2 million may be owed back to the Hardest Hit Fund.
""Whatever the final number, those responsible should be held accountable,"" the department said in a statement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/measure-to-speed-va-review-of-disability-claims-appeals-passes-house,MEASURE TO SPEED VA REVIEW OF DISABILITY CLAIMS APPEALS PASSES HOUSE,2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation by Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., to speed the Department of Veterans Affairs’ handling of appeals for disability claims passed in the House Wednesday night.
The VA Accountability First and Appeals Modernization Act of 2016 was combined with a measure by Rep. Jeff Miller, R-Fla., chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, to create a framework to remove or demote VA employees for failing to perform their duties to serve veterans.
The bill passed by a 310-116 vote, with opposition to the accountability provision generating most of the “no” votes.
While the VA has reduced a logjam of more than 530,000 initial disability claims in recent years, a new backlog surfaced in 450,000 appeals, with an average wait time of three years to address them.
Titus’ measure will simplify and shorten the appeals process while giving veterans an opportunity to add evidence to their claims and choose to have a full review by the Board of Veterans Appeals, either with new evidence or as an expedited review without new supporting documents.
“I predicted this shift in the backlog and have attempt to prevent a tsunami from crashing down by working with the VA and veterans service organizations to overhaul this outdated and over-complicated system,” Titus said in a statement Thursday.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/neon-museum-receives-federal-grant-and-announces-self-guided-tours,Neon Museum receives federal grant and announces self-guided tours,2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"LAS VEGAS (KSNV News3LV) — Good news for Las Vegas' Neon Museum. The unique space off of Las Vegas Boulevard received a $24,500 federal grant to help create a digital library of drawings, renderings, schematics, photos, postcards, and other items related to the treasured signs of Las Vegas past.
The grant came from the Insitute of Museum and Library Services, and will allow the museum to begin archiving the past.
“With this grant, the Neon Museum is one step closer to showcasing and preserving more artifacts from the artists who decorated the Southern Nevada landscape and captivated millions of visitors over many decades,” Rep. Titus said. “While we’ve come to know and love the museum’s monumental outdoor displays, it’s gratifying to see the commitment to safeguarding the vestiges of the artistic process along with the world-famous collection in the Neon Boneyard. Protecting these items will allow us to tell the Las Vegas story and provide greater insight into our history as a land of aesthetic achievement.”
SELF-GUIDED TOURS
In addition to the exciting news about the grant money, the Neon Museum also announced that interested patrons can begin to take self-guided tours in the North Gallery.
The tours begin September 19, allowing visitors to browse 60 signs between 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The North Gallery tours can be added to the existing Neon Boneyard tour for an additional $10 or as a stand-alone tour for $19.
“We’re pleased to introduce a tour experience that will enable us to welcome many more visitors to the Neon Museum than ever before,” explained Rob McCoy, president and CEO, Neon Museum. “Now, visitors who come to the museum will have another attractive option if guided tours are completely sold out.”
For more information about the Neon Museum, hours of operation, and other events at the museum, check out their website here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/nevada-groups-receive-46m-in-va-grants-to-combat-veteran-homelessness,Nevada groups receive $4.6M in VA grants to combat veteran homelessness,2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $4.65 million in grants Tuesday to organizations in Nevada for curbing homelessness among veterans and their families.
The goal of the VA’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families program is to help low-income veterans’ families maintain stability in their current homes or transition to permanent housing. The program, which is in its fourth year, serves about 1,000 veterans.
This year the United States Veterans Initiative was awarded more than $1.2 million; Vietnam Veterans of California Inc., nearly $2 million; HELP Social Service Corp., about $954,000; and The Salvation Army more than $463,000.
“These funds will play a major role to help bring our heroes off the streets and provide a safe place for them to stay as they transition to long-term housing,” Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee said in a press release. “No one who wore the uniform should lack a roof over his or her head.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/new-asian-culture-center-in-las-vegas-celebrates-grand-opening,New Asian Culture Center in Las Vegas celebrates grand opening,2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"Las Vegas’ new Asian Culture Center celebrated its grand opening ceremony on Monday, August 29.
The festivities began at 3pm, with honorable mayor of the City of Las Vegas, Carolyn Goodman, cutting the ceremonial ribbon.
Hosted by Emmy-Award winner Steve Schorr, more than 300 business, political, and community leaders graced the special occasion, including the Asian-American community of Las Vegas.
Among the event’s special guests were Mayor Carolyn Goodman, state Senator scott hammond, representatives of Rep. Dina Titus and Rep. Joe heck, a representative from Las Vegas Councilwoman Lois Tarkanian, and Judges Janiece Marshall, Suzan Baucum, Eric Johnson and Susan Johnson.
After its opening few weeks ago, more 40 free classes are being held with about 3 dozen volunteer teachers. From sushi making to Mandarin; and Body points (acupressure) to Martial Arts, the center has been bursting with activities.
The Asian Culture Center represents people and countries that aim to share the colorful Asian culture and history around the world. The 5,000-square foot facility is operated and owned Asian Culture Alliance, a non-profit organization founded by Cavin Fung. It is located at 928 S. Valley View Blvd.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/thalia-dondero-first-woman-elected-to-clark-county-commission-dies-at-96,"Thalia Dondero, first woman elected to Clark County Commission, dies at 96",2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"When the male members of the Clark County Commission invited Thalia Dondero, the first-ever elected female commissioner, to the old Desert Inn Country Club for a round of golf in 1974, she accepted even though she had never played the game.
The men escorted Dondero and her bag of borrowed clubs to the first par-3 hole and told her rather condescendingly that the object was to get the ball into the hole in as few strokes as possible. On her first shot, Dondero’s form and drive were not pretty, but the ball bounced along the fairway, rolled onto the green and dropped into the cup — a hole in one! The male commissioners stood gape-jawed.
Over the next 42 years — not on the golf course, but in the field of community service — Dondero sank many seemingly impossible hole-in-one shots: She modernized and beautified McCarran International Airport, identified adequate and available water sources for the thirsty desert valley, and became a champion for education and preservation of Southern Nevada’s natural landmarks.
Thalia Marie Sperry Dondero, who served 20 years on the county commission and 12 years on the Nevada Board of Regents while also dedicating her time to other community boards, died Sunday at Nathan Adelson Hospice of complications from congestive heart failure. She was 96.
Services for the Nevada resident of 74 years are pending.
“I think one of the things that was evident with mom was she walked the walk. If she believed in something, she followed it,” her daughter Marylin Dondero Loop said Monday. “She taught us to be good listeners and always do the right thing for the community.
“She was a community-minded person.”
U.S. Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., on Monday called Thalia Dondero “a kind, thoughtful and charitable woman.”
“Thalia was a pioneer who opened doors of opportunity for countless Nevada women,” Reid said in a statement. “Her strength and dedication to public service stood as an inspiration, and her family continues to epitomize those values to this very day.
“From her tireless work to improve education for Nevada students to her vital role in expanding Southern Nevada’s economic and recreational offerings, Thalia was a one-of-a-kind advocate for the Silver State and its residents. The impact of Thalia’s work will continue to be felt for generations to come. Nevada is better off because of her and her family.”
U.S. Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., said Dondero ""broke so many glass ceilings in Nevada and always did it with style and grace. All public servants can learn from the example she set.”
In a March 30 interview with KNPR Radio, Dondero said she felt that her lasting legacy should be her “community and public service participation and raising five children, all of whom graduated from college.”
It seems local dignitaries could agree with that legacy. Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman tweeted Monday that ""Thalia Dondero was a true Nevada pioneer, in leadership and for women ... devoted to education & community betterment with kindness for all.""
Thalia became active in community service while her children were in school. She focused on education, joining the Mayfair Grade School’s PTA, where she met Las Vegas education leader Maude Frazier, who mentored Thalia and encouraged her to run for office.
Thalia Dondero lost her first political race for the Nevada Assembly in 1972 but bounced back two years later to win a seat on the county commission, where she overcame initial bouts of sexual discrimination, refusing a patronizing request from the male commissioners to serve as secretary and take minutes at meetings.
“My vote is the same as yours,” Dondero told what she often referred to as “The Boys Club.”
Dondero often told the story of the first time she picked up a golf club in 1974 as an allegory for overcoming the archaic views of some men toward women at that time. Her fellow commissioners had invited Dondero to play as a lark — to be a potential source of duffer humor — but were shocked by her hole-in-one.
“They certainly never invited me to play golf with them again,” Dondero said.
During her five terms on the county commission, Dondero served as chairwoman on three occasions. She played a key role in expanding state-owned recreational areas, including Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire, and traveled the world to visit international airports and bring knowledge back to Las Vegas that helped not only expand McCarran but beautify it with murals and other artwork. Dondero’s other major thrusts as commissioner were efforts to reduce neighborhood crime and improve the quality of local parks.
Dondero made a bid for a sixth term in 1994, but she lost in the Democratic primary to Myrna Williams. Dondero’s age, 74, became a campaign issue and a concern among voters who had no idea she would live nearly a quarter of a century more.
But she won had won many people over people with her tireless efforts.
""Thalia was a trailblazer who cared deeply about this community and served it with distinction,"" current Clark County Commission Chairman Steve Sisolak said. ""She broke the glass ceiling and became the first female county commissioner, and today a majority of our board is female. I had the pleasure of serving with her on the Board of Regents, where I always respected what she had to say. Las Vegas has lost one of its shining lights.""
As chairwoman of the Las Vegas Valley Water District Board, she helped champion flood control projects such as the construction of retention basins when many major streets, particularly the Charleston Boulevard underpass, flooded nearly every time it rained. And at a time in Nevada’s history when there were great fears that the available water supply would dry up amid massive population increases, Dondero led efforts to find sources that today provide adequate water to the sprawling valley.
She also served on the Bureau of Land Management Resource Advisory Council, the Summerlin Hospital Board of Trustees and the Nevada State Parks Commission.
Dondero served twice as chairwoman and once as vice chairwoman for the Board of Regents. She was chairwoman of the Regents’ Investment Committee and was a member of the Cultural Diversity and Security Committee, the Student and Academic Affairs Committee and the Health Sciences Systems Committee.
Other community organizations on which Dondero served over the years include the Las Vegas Ice Age Park Foundation, of which she was past vice president and was a member until the day she died; Southern Nevada Public Television board of directors; Gilcrease Orchard Foundation board of trustees; International Women’s Forum; Nevada PTA, of which she was past president; Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada, of which she was past executive director and past president; Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada board of trustees; University Medical Center board of directors; Clark County Liquor and Gaming Licensing Board, of which she was past chairwoman; the state’s advisory committee of the Housing Division of the Department of Business and Industry, of which she was past chairwoman; Clark County Sanitation District board of trustees, of which she was past vice chair; and the Big Bend Water District board of trustees, of which she was past chairwoman.
Born Thalia Sperry on Jan. 23, 1920, in Greeley, Colo., she moved to Bakersfield, Calif., at age 10 with her family and later attended junior college in California.
She then went to work for Basic Magnesium in California, which in 1942 transferred Dondero to its Southern Nevada office. Soon after, she met Harvey Dondero, a native Nevadan teaching at the old Las Vegas High School, and they married in 1946.
From 1946 to 1948, the Donderos made their home in Carson City, where Harvey worked for the U.S. Department of Education. In 1948, they returned to Las Vegas, where Harvey served as assistant superintendent of the Clark County School District.
Harvey died in 1986 at age 76.
Among Dondero’s numerous awards and honors, in 2004 she received the first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award from the Junior League of Las Vegas, of which she was a longtime member. In 2006, she was awarded the Education Hero Award from the Public Education Foundation, and in 2007 Dondero was given an honorary doctor of law degree from UNLV for her commitment to higher education and distinguished service to the community. In 2010, she received the Fifth Annual Women’s Hall of Fame Pioneer Award from the Women’s Chamber Foundation.
Dondero enjoyed apparent good health until June, when she fell and broke her hip, her family said, noting that two months later she was diagnosed with the serious heart condition and her health quickly declined.
Dondero is survived by her five children, Judy Habbeshaw of Kanab, Utah; Michael Dondero of Reno; Harvey Dondero Jr. of Greensboro, N.C.; and Marylin Dondero Loop and Robert Dondero, both of Las Vegas. Other survivors include 15 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren.
Ed Koch is a former longtime Las Vegas Sun reporter. Sun reporter Chris Kudialis contributed to this report.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/we-must-invest-in-a-well-educated-stem-workforce,We must invest in a well-educated STEM workforce,2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today’s STEM students are tomorrow’s researchers, scientists, doctors, astronauts and engineers, as well as the teachers who will prepare future generations to follow in their footsteps. They will face tremendous challenges, which in turn present the possibility of doing amazing things that can transform the world as we know it. They will be tasked with preserving our natural resources, advancing technology, curing diseases and protecting our citizens. That is why it is so important that we attract and nurture these future change-makers by getting children hooked on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) at an early age.
If we invest in a highly skilled, well-educated STEM workforce, not only will our nation become more globally competitive, but individuals will also be able to enjoy more rewarding, prosperous lives. In 2015, the average wage for all STEM occupations was $85,570, nearly double the average of all other occupations combined, according to the Department of Labor. It is anticipated that the demand for STEM workers will grow by 14 percent between 2010 and 2020. Unfortunately, data show that 3 million of those jobs will go unfilled if we continue on our current path. We clearly need more software experts and chemists, math teachers and lab technicians.
There are three STEM magnet middle schools located in Nevada’s 1st District (Las Vegas), including Hyde Park Middle School, where students have won our Congressional App Challenge every year. There are also seven STEM/STEAM focused elementary schools, which provide exposure to the nexus of the arts and sciences for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Sustained early exposure is very important because research shows by the time students reach fourth grade, one-third of boys and girls have lost interest in science; by eighth grade, half deem it irrelevant to their future plans.
The numbers are even worse when one looks specifically at minority students, who have fewer opportunities to study the STEM fields. Only 28 percent of high schools with high black and Latino student enrollment offer physics, compared to 67 percent of high schools with low enrollment of their demographics. Likewise, only 33 percent of such schools offer calculus, compared to 56 percent, and only 27 percent of black and Latino students take AP classes. This is reflected in the STEM workforce. Blacks and Hispanics make up around 28 percent of the overall workforce but only account for 12.5 percent of STEM careers nationwide, according to the Department of Education.
We as a society cannot afford such a drop-off and corresponding loss of brain power in these fields. That’s why I am sponsoring legislation to create a National Science Foundation grant program, to give at-risk K-12 students the tools they need to improve their STEM education. The bill will increase federal investment for low-income and minority students studying STEM at colleges and universities by offering students loan forgiveness grants. It will also provide assistance to minority-serving institutions in the development of STEM programs that reach out to those demographics. The program will be paid for by increasing the H-1B visa fee, which companies pay to bring highly skilled foreign workers to the United States. Rather than importing STEM workers, we should be “growing” our own.
I submitted this bill in 2015 and am still waiting for Republicans to act. What’s disheartening is that our students and our nation cannot afford to wait. It’s time we level the playing field and offer incentives for more students to enter these exciting and rewarding fields. By not acting, Congress is depriving our young people of great opportunities while failing to prepare our country for the future.
Titus is a member of the STEM Education Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/year-of-the-monkey-primate-research-under-the-microscope-in-uk-and-us,Year of the Monkey: Primate Research under the microscope in UK and US,2016-09-28,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"It seems that 2016 has been the Year of the Monkey in more ways than one. In both the United States and the United Kingdom the use of primates in research has been under increased scrutiny this year.
From the US Congressional mandate that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) review its use of nonhuman primates for research, to last week’s publication of an open letter in the UK Independent signed by 21 experts including Sir David Attenborough and Dr. Jane Goodall raising concerns about the use of monkeys in brain experiments.
As one might expect all this attention seems to have put the primate research industry on the defensive.
Last week, the NIH essentially facilitated a circling of the wagons at what I hoped would be an open and critical discussion on the use of non-human primates in research as requested by Congress.
To take a step back for context, the 2016 spending bill passed by Congress last December included language authored by Representative Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA) that requested the NIH to ‘conduct a review of its ethical policies and processes with respect to nonhuman primate research subjects, in consultation with outside experts, to ensure it has appropriate justification for animals research protocols and to provide and update on these efforts in the fiscal year 2017 budget request.’
In a follow up letter sent to the NIH in January by five members of Congress [Roybal-Allard, Sam Farr (D-CA) Dina Titus (D-NV), Eliot Engel (D-NY), and Brendan Boyle (D-PA)] it was reiterated that the review should be, “as independent as possible, so that the most difficult ethical questions with regards to the use of all non-human primates in a wide range of experiments can be honestly asked and answered.” Unfortunately the workshop held by the NIH last week, largely failed to meet this stipulation.
As I monitored this workshop online, I was struck that the meeting seemed to be more of a cheerleading session for primate experiments and, at times, a macabre audition for researchers to make a case for their experiments to receive continued funding.
The few “outside experts” who were invited and not financially tied to primate research, were Dr. Tom Beauchamp, an ethicist at Georgetown University and Dr. Jeffrey Kahn a bioethicist at Johns Hopkins University but they were not invited to give presentations and had to vie for time in the discussion sessions where they were frequently shut down. This was especially shocking since Dr. Kahn had such relevant expertise, having chaired the 2011 review committee on the use of Chimpanzees in Biomedical and Behavioral Research, which led to the decision by the NIH to end support for invasive chimpanzee research.
The lack of balance was, I believe, no accident. When the workshop was first announced I contacted the workshop organizers to encourage a robust review and specifically suggested our own Dr. Jarrod Bailey who has published multiple peer-reviewed papers on the use of non-human primates in biomedical research and who participated in the aforementioned review of chimpanzees. Despite his impressive resume he, and many other possible candidates, were not invited to participate in the workshop.
A few weeks ahead of this workshop the NY Times published an opinion piece titled “Second Thoughts of an Animal Researcher” by Dr. John P. Gluck, an emeritus professor of psychology at the University of New Mexico, who seemed to suggest that the NIH workshop was poised to miss the mark from its inception; he wrote, “...the N.I.H will hold a workshop on, “continued responsible research” with these animals. This sounds like a positive development. But as someone who spent decades working almost daily with macaque monkeys in primate research laboratories, I know firsthand that “responsible” research is not enough. What we really need to examine is the very moral ground of animal research itself.”
Across the pond, Dr. Gluck joined Dr. Jane Goodall, Sir David Attenborough and 18 other scientists, primatologists and animal welfare experts in signing an open letter, organized by Cruelty Free International, to bodies in the UK and EU responsible for funding and licensing controversial brain experiments on monkeys. Of particular concern is neuroscience research involving monkeys being subjected to invasive brain surgery, water deprivation and prolonged restraint.
A recent review of the claims of the human relevance of data made by researchers, who use monkeys in these kinds of experiments, were found to be overstated and the availability and use of ethical studies involving humans were of more value to medical progress.
Sir David Attenborough, said:
“The recognition that apes, certainly, and to an extent other primates, are so akin to ourselves, and can suffer so much, as we can, has transformed our attitude, or should have transformed our attitude, to using them for our own benefit. They are sentient beings that have mental lives comparable to ours, and sensitivities, and pain and deprivation mean things to them, just as they mean things to us.”
Dr Jane Goodall, said:
“I and my team have studied chimpanzees, our closest living relatives, for over 50 years. I can state categorically that they have a similar capacity for suffering, both mental and physical, and show similar emotions to many of ours. We also study baboons and other monkeys and there is no doubt they too can suffer and experience fear, depression, anxiety, frustration and so on. To confine these primate relatives of ours to laboratory cages and subject them to experiments that are often distressing and painful is, in my opinion, morally wrong. To restrain their movement and deprive them of water is inhumane and extremely cruel and we have no right to exploit them in this way for any reason.”
In response to the letter, a group of UK primate researchers have gone on the defensive, attacking the credibility of those scientists who disagree with them.
Last week’s lopsided NIH workshop and the hostile response to the open letter seem to suggest that those directly involved with primate research aren’t quite ready for an open, honest, discussion about the ethics of non-human primate research and the inevitable soul searching that will come with it. But whether they are ready or not, the conversation with the public and policy makers has begun.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/vets-secretary-under-fire-for-comparing-va-wait-times-to-disneyland,Vets Secretary Under Fire for Comparing VA Wait Times to Disneyland,2016-09-23,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald on Monday compared wait times at VA hosptial facilities to those at Disneyland, in remarks that are facing fierce backlash from veterans groups and members of Congress.
“When you go to Disney, do they measure the number of hours you wait in line? Or what’s important? What’s important is, what’s your satisfaction with the experience?” McDonald said at a Christian Science Monitor breakfast. “And what I would like to move to, eventually, is that kind of measure.”
Scores of social media users were quick to point out that dozens of veterans have died waiting for medical treatment at VA facilities, a revelation that led to the resignation of former VA Secretary Eric Shinseki and a renewed focus on the troubled agency.
McDonald, former CEO of consumer giant Procter & Gamble, was explaining to reporters at the breakfast his desire for the VA to move toward a satisfaction-based measure of healthcare at the department's facilities, rather than evaluating it based solely on wait times.
McDonald was roundly criticized in conservative circles on Monday. House Speaker Paul Ryan tweeted, ""This is not make-believe, Mr. Secretary."" Meanwhile, presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump used McDonald's remarks to slam Hillary Clinton, his likely general election rival, tweeting, ""I will take care of our vets!""
Rep. Jeff Miller, chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, said the comparison to wait times at Disneyland was ""just plain wrong.""
""In fact, the VA scandal over fraudulent wait times ... is precisely why McDonald is now VA secretary,"" Miller said in a statement. ""Unfortunately, nearly two years after McDonald took over at VA, the department's wait-time rhetoric doesn't match up with the reality of veterans' experiences.""
Dan Caldwell, vice president for political and legislative action of Concerned Veterans for America, said in a statement that McDonald's comments show ""he doesn't even view long wait times and secret wait lists as real problems in need of a fix,"" calling him out of touch and ""not the serious reformer he promised to be.""
While the conservative group demanded an apology, it did not go as far as calling for McDonald's resignation. The organization's press secretary, John Cooper, told The Daily Beast that McDonald should not be retained in the next administration.
""Frankly, at this point, it wouldn't make a difference if Secretary McDonald resigns because his deputy, Sloan Gibson, is just as invested in defending a broken VA system, and President Obama has shown he is not serious about fixing the issues at the VA,"" Cooper said.
VoteVets, a progressive veterans group, issued a more measured response to The Daily Beast. Its chairman, Jon Soltz, praised McDonald and Shinseki for eliminating the agency's backlog of claims and working to decrease wait times.
""Secretary McDonald's comments were clumsy, at best,"" said Soltz, an Iraq War veteran. ""...We're on the right path, and it's crucial that Congress continue to give the VA what it needs to expand services, and cut wait times, not move towards privatization.""
The Daily Beast's calls and emails to various Democratic House and Senate offices — in particular those members who sit on veterans' affairs committees — went mostly unreturned. However, Rep. Dina Titus (D-Nev.) rationalized McDonald's comments, telling The Daily Beast that while his comparison to Disneyland was ""unfortunate,"" the VA can often seem like ""a bad theme park: long lines, bad service, and indifferent employees.""
Rep. Jerry McNerney, another Democratic member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, told The Daily Beast that McDonald ""should be more aware of the impact his comments may have on veterans and their families.""
The Department of Veterans Affairs provided a statement to The Daily Beast on Monday afternoon which neither mentioned nor apologized for McDonald's comments.
""In our effort to determine how we can better meet veterans' needs, knowing that their satisfaction is our most important measure, we have heard them tell us that wait times alone are not the only indication of their experience with the VA and that's why we must transform the way we do business,"" the statement reads.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/faa-rules-to-clear-way-for-routine-commercial-drone-flights,FAA rules to clear way for routine commercial drone flights,2016-09-19,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON — Routine use of small drones by real estate agents, farmers, filmmakers and countless other commercial operators was cleared for takeoff by the Obama administration Tuesday, after years of struggling to write rules that would both protect public safety and free the benefits of a new technology.
The Federal Aviation Administration announced the creation of a new category of aviation rules designed specifically for drones weighing less than 55 pounds. The long-anticipated rules mean commercial operators can fly drones without special permission.
Industry and government officials describe commercial drones as the biggest game-changing technology in aviation since the advent of the jet engine.
“This is a watershed moment in how advanced technology can improve lives,” said Brendan Schulman, a vice president at DJI, the world’s largest civilian drone-maker.
 
Jason Miller, an Obama economic adviser, said the rules are the first step toward full integration of drones in the national airspace system.
Until now, commercial operators have had to apply for a waiver from rules that govern manned aircraft, a process that can be time-consuming and expensive.
Since 2014 the FAA has granted more than 6,100 waivers and another 7,600 are waiting for approval. Many more small companies have been using drones without FAA permission, say industry officials.
Unless those operators make a serious mistake that brings them to the FAA’s attention, there’s not a lot the agency can do to track them down. The new rules would provide an easier way for those businesses to operate legally.
The rules also would effectively lift the lid on flights by other potential operators who have held off using the technology — ranchers who want to count cattle, filmmakers who want to employ aerial photography, research scientists, companies that inspect infrastructure like bridges, oil platforms and smokestacks, to name a few.
Under the new rules, operators would register their drones online, pass an aviation knowledge exam for drone pilots at an FAA-approved testing center and then they’re approved. That’s a big change since operators currently have to have a manned aircraft pilot’s license.
The rules permit commercial transport of goods by drones for the first time, but the other restrictions on flights beyond sight of the operator and over people still apply.
Other important limitations also remain in place. Drone flights will be permitted only during the day and at twilight. Drone industry officials have long complained that restricting drone flights to daytime precluded a great many uses like some search and rescue operations, agricultural operations best done after dark and roof inspections of commercial building roofs that use heat sensors.
Operators could still seek waivers to restrictions like nighttime flights, flights beyond sight of the operator and flights over people.
 
The rules still prevent delivery drones from flying across cities and suburbs clasping small packages. Amazon and Google announced two years ago that they are working on drone delivery systems for goods purchased online, and Google officials have said they expect deliveries to begin sometime in 2017.
FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said the agency is researching how drone deliveries might safely be accomplished, but he declined to set a timetable for such rules.
What’s missing from the rules is an enforcement mechanism, said Sarah Kreps, a Cornell University professor. “It is hard to see how the (FAA) actually can ensure that these rules are followed,” she said.
Congress has been prodding the FAA for more than a decade to write rules to enable broad access to the national airspace by civilian drones. Initially, the agency put its emphasis on finding ways to enable larger drones like those used for military missions to safely fly at the same altitudes as airliners and other manned aircraft. After several years, the agency shifted its focus to small drones when it became clear that the market for their uses was developing much faster.
But the FAA’s slow pace led frustrated lawmakers to include a provision in a major aviation bill four years ago setting deadlines for the agency to issue regulations to integrate safely small drones into the national airspace by August 2014 and other drones by September 2015.
The new rules fulfill that first deadline. The agency is also working on an array of other safety rules and standards to further broaden the circumstances under which drones can be flown. In April, FAA officials said they are working on regulations that would permit some commercial drones to fly over people and crowds based on recommendations from an industry advisory committee.
The flexible revisions and clarification of provisions will put U.S. companies on the global market, said Chris Walach, director for the FAA-designated Nevada Unmanned Aviation Test Site and director of technical operations for the Nevada Institute of Autonomous Systems.
“It’s going to help the commercial UAS companies better execute their missions and be more competitive,” Walach said. “This allows them to be more competitive and actually go after those jobs they weren’t able to go after before.”
He said the 624-page document relaxes and clarifies provisions for unmanned aviation systems. At the Nevada test site, one of six across the country, he said they’ll be able to take companies and vendors closer to the next level of integrating drones into national airspace.
“No doubt there is going to be some adjustments we’re going to have to make as a test site for implementation for the (Part) 107,” he said, referring to the document, but: “I see those adjustments as being very positive.”
U.S. Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., serves on the House of Representatives Aviation Committee, which has jurisdiction over the FAA. She said in a statement that she’ll work with manufacturers, operators, developers and regulatory agencies to progress commercial use of unmanned aviation systems.
“This rule is a significant step forward for an industry that has the potential to transform our economy in Nevada and nationwide,” she said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/wounded-veterans-press-va-for-fertility-services,Wounded veterans press VA for fertility services,2016-09-19,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"Three months into a deployment in June 2012, Army Sgt. Kevin Jaye was on foot patrol in Afghanistan when he triggered the pressure plate of an improvised explosive device. The blast tore off his right leg and caused significant damage to his left leg and lower torso.
Jaye spent two years at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, enduring more than 30 surgeries and countless physical therapy sessions. Now medically retired from the military, he continues to need health services from the Veterans Affairs Department.
Nearly all Jaye’s combat-related conditions are covered by VA, except for one: Infertility.
The explosion “destroyed his reproductive system,” according to Jaye, leaving him with low testosterone and a negligible sperm count that makes it impossible for Jaye to father children without medical assistance.
The VA provides assessments and some treatment, such as surgeries and medications, to increase a veteran’s odds of creating a baby, but it does not provide in vitro fertilization and other advanced reproductive treatments for the 1,800 to 2,000 injured post-9/11 troops who need help to start a family.
Jaye and his wife, Lauren, were able to access fertility treatments through Lauren’s employer-provided health insurance.
But without a change to the 1992 law that prohibits VA from covering in vitro fertilization, their baby girl, due in August, likely will be their only child, since the couple has maxed out their $30,000 insurance cap on fertility treatments.
“We have fought so hard to have a child. … VA covers everything else, why not this? It’s heartbreaking,” Kevin Jaye said during a visit to Congress to press for the law to be overturned.
Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., has tried for more than five years to pass legislation requiring the VA to cover in vitro fertilization and other specialty fertility services.
She recently sponsored an amendment to the Senate military construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill that would allocate $88 million to the VA to cover fertility treatments and counseling for these wounded veterans and their spouses.
According to Murray, paralyzed veterans, those with groin injuries, and former service members who have suffered head trauma that affects their hormones have a right to start a family and shouldn’t be forced to pay out of pocket.
“This is just so wrong to me. … People in America need to stand up and say this is a wound of war and this country needs to pay for it,” Murray said.
Earlier this year, the Pentagon announced it would create a pilot program that will cover the cost of freezing the sperm or eggs of active-duty troops to provide more family planning options and preserve a service member’s fertility prior to deployment.
The Defense Department also covers in vitro fertilization and other fertility services for severely wounded troops while they are on active duty.
But once they medically retire, the coverage stops.
And, according to these troops, the recovery period before they leave active duty is the worst time to think about having babies.
“We were in the process of saving his leg. What a terrible time, as responsible people, to start a family,” Lauren Jaye said. “We wanted to get him healed and then think about it.”
“We had a lot to get through,” said Tracy Keil, wife of retired Army Staff Sgt. Matt Keil, who was paralyzed by a sniper’s bullet in Iraq. “We were adjusting to the wheelchair, we both lost our jobs. Matt lost his whole career — he need time figure out what he wanted to do when he grew up. It wasn’t a good time to think about children.”
The Keils did not take DoD up on the offer and paid $32,000 of their savings for treatment. Their twins are now 5 years old.
“I felt betrayed, forgotten. I don’t want other veterans to have to go through the heartache I went through. Why should any of us have to beg for something like this?” Matt Keil said.
Murray has made several attempts to get legislation passed to expand coverage for veterans. A bill proposed last year was pulled before a committee vote when Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., added amendments that questioned the funding of the initiative and prohibited the VA from working with Planned Parenthood and other organizations that provide abortion services in addition to fertility treatments.
A 2012 bill was approved by the Senate but failed in the house over funding concerns.
Murray said Tuesday she believes her most recent proposal has the support of lawmakers from both sides of the aisle and funding shouldn’t be an issue.
“I want to make sure that nothing happens in the middle of the night that takes it out of the bill. People say they object to it because of its cost. But this is a cost of war,” she said.
During a hearing last year, an assistant VA deputy undersecretary told the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee that the department largely supports Murray’s proposals, provided that money was available for the services.
“VA supports doing all we can to restore to the greatest extent possible a veteran's quality of life, including the ability to have a family,” Dr. Rajiv Jain said.
Still, the legislation faces an uphill battle.
On Wednesday, Democrats on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee proposed amendments similar to Murray’s proposal.
But the panel instead advanced legislation that would give $20,000 in new compensation payouts to veterans who suffered injuries to reproductive organs, with the goal of using the money to cover ensuing family planning costs.
Republican supporters said the money could go toward adoption costs, fertility treatments or family expenses of the veterans’ choosing.
Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., however, noted that $20,000 may not be enough to cover even one full cycle of IVF treatments.
""We should do the right thing and fulfill our promises to take care of these veterans,"" she said.
Crystal Black and retired Army Cpl. Tyler Wilson have spent $14,000 of their own money to have a baby. They are just in the early stages and hope that Crystal will be pregnant in the next few months.
Wilson, paralyzed from the waist down by enemy gunfire, said in vitro fertilization is the only way they will have a complete family. But after this try, they won’t be able to afford future attempts.
“The VA covers every other medical need he has, his medications, his wheelchair. But the VA is denying Tyler and every other service member in our situation, the right to have a family, the right that these men served for and already have given so much for,” Black said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-announces-neon-museum-grant,Rep. Titus Announces Neon Museum Grant,2016-09-16,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"September 16, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
  
	Las Vegas -- Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced that Las Vegas’ Neon Museum received a federal grant to help create a digital library of drawings, renderings, schematics, photos, postcards, and other items relating to Southern Nevada’s most iconic works of art.     
	The $24,500 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services will allow the Neon Museum to begin digitally archiving its collection of groundbreaking and contemporary artists whose signs and advertisements have become synonymous with the Las Vegas aesthetic. 
  
	“With this grant, the Neon Museum is one step closer to showcasing and preserving more artifacts from the artists who decorated the Southern Nevada landscape and captivated millions of visitors over many decades,” Rep. Titus said. “While we’ve come to know and love the museum’s monumental outdoor displays, it’s gratifying to see the commitment to safeguarding the vestiges of the artistic process along with the world-famous collection in the Neon Boneyard. Protecting these items will allow us to tell the Las Vegas story and provide greater insight into our history as a land of aesthetic achievement.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/video-rep-titus-celebrates-hispanic-heritage-month,VIDEO: Rep. Titus Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month,2016-09-15,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"September 15, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
 
Washington, D.C.—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District released the following statement and video on Hispanic Heritage Month.
Watch Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fq-IBZaxPYc
“Hello, I’m Dina Titus, your congresswoman from District One.
“Lo siento pero no hablo Espanol muy bien. Un poquito, nada mas. Pero ojala que mejore.
“Please join me in recognizing September as National Hispanic Heritage Month. The neighborhoods of District One are the most diverse in the state and exemplify why Hispanic traditions, language, and arts are among the touchstones of American culture.
“In Las Vegas, nearly one-third of the total population and over 40 percent of those under 18 identify themselves as Hispanic. Residents hail from all the Latin American countries and many island nations, threading their folkways and history into the fabric of everyday life in Southern Nevada.  Hispanic culture endows our city from corner to corner.  It’s hard to imagine Las Vegas without mainstays like the Mexican dance group Comparza Morelense, the newspaper El Mundo, the Venezuelan restaurant Las Arepas, the Salvadoran Las Pupusas, the Puerto Rican Association, the Peruvian Chamber of Commerce, the Las Vegas Heritage Museum, or the annual Dia De Los Muertos celebration at Winchester Park.  
“While there is much to celebrate, we still have work to do. I want to thank Las Vegas’ immigration advocates including DREAMers like Astrid Silva who have fought for commonsense reform instead of building walls.
“Passing comprehensive legislation is a moral imperative and economic necessity for the 210,000 undocumented immigrants in our state. This Hispanic Heritage Month we must renew our effort to bring people out of the shadows and give them a shot at the American Dream.
“Please know that I am -- and always will be -- an advocate for fixing our broken immigration system and providing families with the opportunity to prosper in the U.S. Together we will celebrate the culture, achievements, and heritage of the Hispanic community. Together we will work to bring justice to those who deserve a voice. 
“Y recuerden, “Adelante… siempre adelante.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/in-the-news/las-vegas-chamber-pushes-for-speed-in-building-las-vegas-phoenix-interstate,Las Vegas chamber pushes for speed in building Las Vegas-Phoenix interstate,2016-09-13,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON — Southern Nevada’s business community is pushing to speed construction of Interstate 11 between Las Vegas and Phoenix.
Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce members and leaders traveled to Washington, D.C., this week. A group of more than 50 business people and officials visited with members of the Nevada congressional delegation and others about a range of issues, including getting I-11 built so it provides faster travel between Phoenix and Las Vegas.
“It’s really one of our top priorities,” said Kristin McMillan, president and chief executive officer of the chamber. Las Vegas and Phoenix are the only two large adjacent metropolitan areas not connected by an interstate. As a result, the cities miss out on economic development opportunities in areas involving warehousing, freight and logistics.
Right now, I-11 is a multijurisdictional effort that spans two states – Arizona and Nevada. Officials envision the project stretching from the Mexico border to Canada, running through Arizona, Nevada north of Las Vegas and into Idaho. It’s a project that ultimately would add another arterial for commerce, linking the intermountain West to ports in California and Mexico.
For now, officials are focusing on the stretch from Las Vegas to Phoenix, well aware that the complete route is an undertaking that will take decades to finish. Beyond Las Vegas, the interstate would connect to I-80, though the exact route through rural Nevada hasn’t been determined.
U.S. Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., is co-chair of an I-11 caucus that includes congressional members from Arizona.
“In all of this, I want to be sure that the emphasis stays on Las Vegas to Phoenix,” Titus said. “That’s the most needed part. That’s the part we’ve got to do first. I don’t want to have that lost while we wait to get the whole thing done.”
U.S. Sen. Dean Heller, R-Nev., said he talked recently with Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx about the importance of the interstate.
“Secretary Foxx promised to work with us closely,” Heller said.
One challenge will be deciding where the route in Nevada will run north of Las Vegas. “That decision has to be made locally in my opinion, and then the planning process can start,” Heller said.
It’s important to be open-minded about the route through Northern Nevada, said Ron Smith, a Sparks city councilman and vice chairman of the Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County.
“We want the best route,” he said.
U.S. Rep. Joe Heck, R-Nev., said he expects it to be a decade or more before the state sees the leg from Las Vegas to I-80, adding that funding will be the biggest challenge. When finished, the project will provide a “viable alternative” that’s good for interstate commerce, he said.
In Southern Nevada, work is underway on the Boulder City bypass, the first section of Interstate 11. The 15-mile bypass project includes one portion overseen by the Nevada Department of Transportation and a 12.5-mile stretch that the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada is handling north and east from the O’Callaghan-Tillman Memorial Bridge over the Colorado River. The new highway will go through the Eldorado Mountains, then south of Boulder City, looping north over U.S. Highway 95 near the Railroad Pass Casino. The 2.5-mile stretch closest to Las Vegas near Railroad Pass is the state’s portion because two separate funding systems are used.
Tina Quigley, general manager of the RTC, said the different jurisdictions are working well together.
“It is unusual in the world of transportation to have so much collaboration and coordination associated with a project,” she said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-statement-on-the-15th-anniversary-of-911-attacks,Rep. Titus Statement on the 15th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks,2016-09-10,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"September 10, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219  
	   
	   
	Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District issued a statement to commemorate the lives lost on September 11, 2001. 
  
	“Tomorrow we pause to mourn the 3,000 lives lost on September 11, 2001, in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. The attacks left deep wounds in our hearts and communities, devastating family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens of those who went down and testing our resolve as a country. But out of the ashes and rubble, Americans rallied and heroes emerged. First responders, airline passengers, soldiers, and ordinary citizens answered the call to action. Their bravery unified and inspired our nation at its darkest hour, comforting those who grieved, reassuring those who watched in disbelief, and mobilizing our citizens to help secure, rebuild, and defend our country.   
  
	“The events of 9/11 emboldened men and women to make great sacrifices and risk their own lives for the greater good. Their bravery and selflessness serve as a reminder of both the heroic and abhorrent acts that our nation witnessed on that day.  
  
	“Every September 11th, we honor the legacy of those who had their lives taken and changed by those heinous attacks with the National Day of Service and Remembrance. Let us use this time to rekindle the spirit of unity, allegiance, and duty that sprang from the attacks by giving back. There is no better way to pay homage to all who have lost and sacrificed in the aftermath of the attacks than to pay it forward.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-announces-21-million-criminal-justice-grant-for-nevada,Titus Announces $2.1 Million Criminal Justice Grant for Nevada,2016-09-09,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"September 9, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
  
	Washington, D.C.—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced a $2,135,648 Department of Justice grant to the Nevada Department of Public Safety for enhancing the criminal justice system in the state.   
	The funds come from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program and allow the Department of Public Safety to distribute the money to law enforcement and units of local government for a variety of projects.  Recipients can use the funds for youth resource officers, body cameras, training projects, behavioral health specialists, and crime-fighting task forces. The program also supports drug treatment programs, transitional housing for offenders, and counseling for adolescents.
  
	“All Nevadans benefit when our communities work together to protect residents, assist law enforcement, and serve those who are at-risk or recovering from the past,” Rep. Titus said. “These funds will support initiatives, assistance, training, and equipment that make the state safer for residents and visitors.”     
	The funds are broad-based and allow the Department of Public Safety to allocate the money where it is most needed.  In previous years, the program has helped fund medical and social services personnel, records management systems, forensic laboratory equipment, family counseling through drug treatment courts, training for law enforcement, outreach activities for high-risk neighborhoods and more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-hardest-hit-fund-audit,Titus Statement on Hardest Hit Fund Audit,2016-09-09,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"September 9, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Washington, D.C. –Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District issued a statement on the audit of Nevada’s Hardest Hit Fund conducted by the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program. 
  
	“I expressed initial skepticism about how the state chose to utilize funds from the Hardest Hit Fund program. When Nevada originally received these funds, I publicly encouraged the state to establish a system to help underwater homeowners buy down the principal on their mortgages while simultaneously investing in our communities. This was the best way to quickly help homeowners and stabilize communities in Nevada.  Instead, the state created a Rube Goldberg-esque system, bloated with administrative costs, known as the Nevada Affordable Housing Assistance Corporation. I am angered by the Nevada Housing Division’s lack of oversight and greatly disturbed that money meant to aid struggling Nevadans was squandered on parties, gift cards, and luxury items. My office has spoken with the Housing Division, SIGTARP, and the Treasury Department and will follow up about the findings of the audit. While our economy continues to improve in the aftermath of the recession, the state’s indiscretion highlighted in the report may jeopardize its future ability to garner federal assistance that can help Nevada families.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/2016-presidential-debate-in-las-vegas,2016 Presidential Debate in Las Vegas,2016-09-06,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Commission on Presidential Debates manages all aspects of the debate, including the number of attendees and ticket allocation. The number of attendees will depend on format and production needs. The event is primarily intended for television to reach as many viewers around the country as possible. There will be television viewing events on the UNLV campus and around the community for individuals to attend. You can find more information about related events here: https://www.unlv.edu/2016debate/events.
You may be interested in signing up to volunteer at the debate. All volunteer opportunities will be decided at a later date, but you can access the application form to express interest here: http://lasvegasdebate2016.com/volunteer.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-statement-for-labor-day,Rep. Titus Statement for Labor Day,2016-09-05,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"September 5, 2016  
		Contact: Kyle Roerink  
		Phone: 202-657-3219
	Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District issued a statement to commemorate Labor Day.

“Today we honor the industriousness, talent, and perseverance of American workers. Our infrastructure, buildings, and businesses across Southern Nevada are evidence of their many contributions. But we must not forget that workers, past and present, have faced exploitation, discrimination, and other unacceptable treatment on the job. On Labor Day we renew our commitment to ensure employers offer equal pay for equal work, pay livable wages, provide quality health care, guarantee on-the-job safety, protect retirement, and condemn workplace discrimination of all kinds. Together we can secure the best conditions for the world’s greatest workforce, which benefits us all.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-statement-on-the-passing-of-thalia-dondero,Rep. Titus Statement on the Passing of Thalia Dondero,2016-09-05,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"September 5, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219  
	   
	Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District issued a statement on the passing of former Clark County Commissioner Thalia Dondero.   
	“I've long known and respected Thalia, who broke so many glass ceilings in Nevada and always did it with style and grace. All public servants can learn from the example she set.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-announces-251375-nsf-grant-for-unlv-research,"Titus Announces $251,375 NSF Grant for UNLV Research",2016-09-01,2016,2016-09,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"September 1, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced that the University of Nevada Las Vegas will receive a $251,375 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant as part of a program to investigate middle school mathematics curriculum. UNLV Associate Professor Dr. Travis Olson will collaborate with researchers from Brigham Young University, the University of Arkansas, and Grand Valley State University in what amounts to a $1,090,283 project funded by the NSF.
The three-year grant will help researchers learn more about how middle school math teachers prepare their lesson plans by interviewing and collecting data from eighth grade math teachers in four states. The study is part of a greater effort by the NSF to emphasize Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) research. 
“The NSF funds fewer than a quarter of grant proposals like this one submitted each year,” Rep. Titus said. “I am proud that UNLV and Dr. Olson will play a significant role in helping to determine how teachers can best prepare their curriculum and what students understand about math in and out of the classroom. STEM education is vital to the development of our future leaders and helps pave the way to college degrees and good careers. The more we know about how students learn in STEM fields, the better we can prepare them to innovate in Nevada and compete in the global marketplace.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-announces-46-million-in-grants-to-fight-veteran-homelessness,Rep. Titus Announces $4.6 Million in Grants to Fight Veteran Homelessness,2016-08-30,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"August 30, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219       
  
	Washington D.C. -- Today Representative Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District and member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs announced $4,650,743 in grants to fight veteran homelessness in Nevada.  
The Department of Veterans Affairs awarded the funds under the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. The goal of the SSVF program is to promote housing stability among very low-income veteran families who reside in or are transitioning to permanent housing. The grant is the Department’s fourth renewal of the annual program and has served some 1000 veterans each year.
“We must provide all the support we can to local groups that are working day and night to end veteran homelessness,” Rep. Titus said. “These funds will play a major role to help bring our heroes off the streets and provide a safe place for them to stay as they transition to long-term housing. No one who wore the uniform should lack a roof over his or her head.”    
The grantees include: United States Veterans Initiative ($1,243,451), Vietnam Veterans of California Inc. ($1,990,104), HELP Social Service Corporation ($953,850), and The Salvation Army ($463,338).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-statement-on-the-passing-of-bonnie-bryan,Rep. Titus Statement on the Passing of Bonnie Bryan,2016-08-30,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"August 30, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219  
	   
	Las Vegas – Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District released the following statement on the passing of former First Lady of Nevada Bonnie Bryan.   
	   
	“A light went out in the Las Vegas firmament with the loss of Bonnie Bryan. Her effervescent nature, charming wit, and generous heart will long be remembered. She set the gold standard.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-announces-2-million-grant-for-crime-victims,Titus Announces $2 Million Grant for Crime Victims,2016-08-23,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"August 23, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District announced a $2,049,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to the Nevada Department of Administration’s Victims of Crime Program.
The award will help victims or their dependents in Nevada pay for medical bills, funeral costs, counseling, and other services in FY2017. The grant is predominantly funded by penalties, fines, and restitution imposed on criminals and comes from the DOJ’s Crime Victims Fund. State officials from the Department of Administration annually apply for the grant. The money helped provide services to about 2,500 Nevadans in the past year.
“Americans are victims of more than 20 million crimes each year and often face unnecessary and unfortunate challenges as a result,” Rep. Titus said. “This grant provides vital assistance and helps foster a less stressful environment for victims and their families as they recover.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-hosts-event-with-plan-legal-aid-center-catholic-charities-others-to-protect,"Titus Hosts Event with PLAN, Legal Aid Center, Catholic Charities & Others to Protect Immigrants Scammed By Local Businesses",2016-08-17,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"August 17, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus will host her annual Immigration Fraud Prevention Fair in an effort to raise awareness of the legitimate agencies and organizations available to those in need of immigration assistance.  
“Bad actors, including some notarios and unqualified counselors, are deceiving a growing number of vulnerable immigrants around the country,” Rep. Titus said. “They produce phony documents, offer improper legal advice, and demand payment without delivering any service. We cannot let these imposters take advantage of our friends and neighbors.”
Practicing “notario fraud,” wrongdoers can jeopardize the eligibility status of prospective permanent residents.  In many Latin American countries, a “notario público” is a state-appointed lawyer with proper credentials to practice law. In the U.S., however, a notary public can only witness and certify legal documents. The distinction between the terms gives scammers the façade of credibility and the opportunity to target the immigrant community. 
More than 15 organizations and agencies will be on hand at the 4th annual Immigration Fraud Prevention Fair. 
Event Details
Date:                  
August 17, 2016 
Time:                  
4:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Location:             
East Las Vegas Community Center   
	250 North Eastern Avenue  
	Las Vegas, NV, 89101
Participants:
Mexican Consulate  
	El Salvador Consulate   
	Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada, Astrid Silva    
	Catholic Charities, Jasmine Coca   
	Legal Aid Center, Debbie Jacoby   
	UNLV Immigration Clinic   
	Internal Revenue Service  
	Nevada Ombudsman of Consumer Affairs, Miriam Lira Hickerson  
	Immigrant Justice Initiative, Arlene Rivera  
	Dream Big Vegas, Jose Macias  
	City of Las Vegas, Amy Solich    
	Hermandad Mexicana, Luz Marina Mosquera   
	Mi Familia Vota, Martiza Rodriguez   
	And More…",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-to-meet-with-immigrant-families-scammed-by-local-businesses,Titus to Meet With Immigrant Families Scammed By Local Businesses,2016-08-15,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"August 15, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas—Today Rep. Dina Titus will host a press conference with immigrant families who have been exploited for their money and personal information by businesses in Las Vegas  that fraudulently pose as immigration attorneys or notaries.   
	   
	Practicing “notario fraud,” wrongdoers can jeopardize the eligibility status of prospective permanent residents.  In many Latin American countries, a “notario público” is a state-appointed lawyer with proper credentials to practice law. In the U.S., however, a notary public can only witness and certify legal documents. The distinction between the terms gives scammers the façade of credibility and the opportunity to target the immigrant community.   
	   
	“While House Republicans ignore our broken immigration system, bad actors, including some notarios and unqualified counselors, are deceiving a growing number of vulnerable immigrants around the country,” Rep. Titus said. “They produce phony documents, offer improper legal advice, and demand payment without delivering any service. We cannot let these imposters take advantage of our friends and neighbors.”   
	   
	The Congresswoman will follow up by hosting her annual Immigration Fraud Prevention Fair on Wednesday with many of the State’s prominent legal practitioners, community organizations, and immigration activists.  She is also a supporter of legislation including, The Notario Victim Relief Act, which will protect victims of notario fraud from deportation.   
	   
	Background  
	   
	Lidia Quiroz: Victim of Immigration Fraud, case resolved by our office  
	   
	Lidia Quiroz has been waiting for over 20 years to obtain permanent residency in the United States. Several Notarios told her there was nothing to be do but wait. Those notarios charged her fees and said it was the only measure to take if she wanted to keep her case open with federal officials. Lidia came to Rep. Titus’ office in hopes of finding an alternative. Rep. Titus’ office helped determine that Lidia was able to adjust her status because she was grandfathered into section 245 (i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965. Her case had expeditious processing and she received a green card – allowing her to visit her ailing mother in Mexico for the first time in over twenty years.   
	   
	Virginia Ramos Bojorquez: Victim of Immigration Fraud  
	   
	Virginia Ramos entered the country legally in 1985 and has been fighting to become a legal permanent resident since. She has been a victim of several fraud schemes that have promised her a green card by falsely ‘qualifying’ her for benefits and laws. Notarios that have preyed on the immigrant community have given false hope to Virginia time and time again by promising to fix the mistakes of their predecessors for the right fee. Instead they have lied on her forms and damaged her record with immigration authorities.   Virginia is currently fighting to uncover the work of the notarios.   
	   
	Details  
	   
	Date:                August 15, 2016   
	   
	Time:               10 AM  to 10:30 AM   
	   
	Location:          East Las Vegas Community Center   
	                         250 North Eastern Avenue  
	                         Las Vegas, NV, 89101",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/today-1-pm-rep-titus-david-copperfield-call-to-recognize-magic-as-art,"Today 1 PM: Rep. Titus, David Copperfield Call to Recognize Magic as Art",2016-08-15,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"August 15, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas – Tomorrow Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District will host a press conference with Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) and world-renown magician David Copperfield to promote H.Res 642, a measure that would distinguish magic as an art form and help protect the craft under the law.     
	   
	Las Vegas is home to superstars like David Copperfield and other magicians who have made Southern Nevada a premier entertainment destination. The legislation would help ensure performers can protect their ideas by providing an avenue for magicians to have intellectual property protections relating to magic tricks. Artists who work in theater, jazz, ballet, and other fields currently have those protections.   
	   
	“Take a walk down the Las Vegas Strip and you will see the impact of magicians and their craft on our economy.” Rep. Titus said. “Every year artists like David Copperfield mesmerize millions of visitors who come to Las Vegas. We must do everything we can to protect their craft and ensure that those who create magic have the commensurate protections as other artists in our country.”   
""Performers and creators in the magic arts deserve the same prominence and recognition that performers in the theater, ballet, jazz, and countless other genres have had for decades,” Copperfield said. ""Magic is an art that enchants and inspires millions of people every year.  This important Congressional resolution recognizes the impact that magic and magicians have had throughout the United States for over a century and their role in inspiring our nation. I want to thank Rep. Titus for not backing away from this issue by highlighting the achievements and the intellectual property rights of magicians across the country.” 
“A lot of people might not know this, but when I was younger, I helped pay for college working as a magician,” Rep. Pocan said. “I also have a web series where I use magic to explain the workings of Congress. As an original cosponsor of the magic resolution, I¹m proud to join Congresswoman Titus and David Copperfield today so we can help maintain magic as an art form for future generations.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/republicans-should-let-dreamers-work-for-congress,Republicans Should Let DREAMers Work For Congress,2016-08-02,2016,2016-08,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"August 2, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas, NV – Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District recently joined her Democratic colleagues to co-sponsor the American Dream Employment Act, a bill that would allow beneficiaries of President Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program to work full time for members of Congress. 
Despite having the ability to work legally at other jobs around the country, DACA recipients, known as DREAMers, cannot obtain employment in congressional offices. Under current law, a provision in the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act limits paid employment in the House and Senate to individuals who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents in the process of naturalizing. The American Dream Employment Act would amend this provision to specify DREAMers as eligible for employment in congressional offices. 
“This year one of my interns inquired about finding full-time employment with members of Congress. Regretfully, I had to tell her that it wasn’t possible,” Rep. Titus said.  “Every day thousands of DREAMers offer our nation their expertise in mathematics, arts, the sciences, health care, international relations, and countless other fields. They legally go to school, earn driver’s licenses, and work in the private sector. We should not deny smart, young, motivated people the opportunity to serve the only country they call home. Inaction by Republicans will continue to deprive the nation of all the valuable skills that DREAMers have to offer.”
  
	Background on DACA:   
	   
	More than 800,000 people living in the U.S. are benefitting from DACA, a program which protects the children of undocumented immigrations who traveled into the U.S prior to 2007 from deportation. President Obama implemented the program in June 2012 after Congress failed to pass the Dream Act. DACA recipients must have been younger than 16 before entering the U.S. and continually resided in the U.S. for the past nine years. 
Background on Rep. Titus’ former intern, Brenda Romero: 
Brenda is a DACA recipient who worked with Rep. Titus during the spring and summer of 2016 after completing her associate degree from the College of Southern Nevada. She was the first undocumented student body president ever at the college. This fall she will begin pursuing a four-year degree at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. Her dream is to become a counselor in higher education and an immigration attorney. Attached is a photo of the congresswoman and Brenda.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-applauds-133-million-us-dot-grant-for-green-fleet-of-buses,Titus Applauds $13.3 million U.S. DOT Grant for Green Fleet of Buses,2016-07-29,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"July 29, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
 
Las Vegas – Today Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First District issued a statement on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s $13,324,000 grant for 25 new cleaner-burning, natural-gas-powered vehicles in Southern Nevada. The Regional Transportation Commission will receive the funds to replace its diesel transit buses and provide the community with a “Green Fleet.” Rep. Titus, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, wrote a letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx in March to encourage DOT funding for the new buses. The RTC will replace the diesel buses at the end of their designated service life.
“Older diesel vehicles have higher fuel costs, require more maintenance, and emit harmful emissions that negatively impact our air quality,” Rep. Titus said. “These buses will save taxpayer dollars, reduce Southern Nevada’s carbon footprint, and help to provide a better experience for the passengers who ride to work and sightsee in Las Vegas every year.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-to-commemorate-26th-anniversary-of-the-ada-with-disabled-nevadans,Rep. Titus to Commemorate 26th Anniversary of the ADA with Disabled Nevadans,2016-07-21,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"July 21, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
  
	Las Vegas – Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District will commemorate the 26th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act at the Dina Titus Estates, an affordable housing complex for Nevadans who are wheelchair-bound or suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). The facility is named in Rep. Titus’ honor to commemorate her decades of advocacy on behalf of Nevada’s most vulnerable residents. The Congresswoman will be joined by residents and Dan Billmark, Director of Real Estate Development at Accessible Space, the non-profit that operates the complex. Attendees will have the opportunity to sign a pledge encouraging our nation to come into full compliance with the law. 
“On the 26th anniversary of the ADA, it is important to remember that some of the nation’s most vulnerable people still face discrimination and hardships solely because they are living with disabilities,” Rep. Titus said. “As a nation, we must use this day to say, ‘We’re better than that.’ Today’s historic milestone gives us an opportunity to commemorate passage of this landmark legislation while vowing to make sure that more people have access to jobs, transportation, government services, and telecommunications. When everyone has an opportunity to achieve his or her potential, the entire community is better served.” 
  
	ADA History
On July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure the civil rights of people with disabilities. This legislation established a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities. 
The ADA has expanded opportunities for Americans with disabilities by reducing barriers, changing perceptions, and increasing full participation in community life. However, the full promise of the ADA will only be reached if we remain committed to continue our efforts to fully implement the ADA.
The purpose of the law is to make sure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. The ADA is divided into five titles (or sections) that relate to different areas of public life, including: employment, public services, public accommodations, telecommunications, and transportation. But more must be done to guarantee full and comprehensive implementation of this law across the country. 
Event Details   
Where:  
The Dina Titus Estates   
	5050 Missouri Avenue  
	Las Vegas, NV 89122
When: 
2:00 pm PST
Date:
Today, July 21, 2016
Other:
The Congresswoman will meet with residents and commemorate the anniversary with refreshments.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-local-advocates-host-career-building-workshop-for-veterans-and-active-military,"Titus, Local Advocates Host Career Building Workshop for Veterans and Active Military",2016-07-21,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"July 21, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas – Today Congresswoman Dina Titus will host a workshop with local advocates to help prepare Nevada’s soldiers and veterans for successful careers in the civilian workforce.  Officials from Work for Warriors Nevada, Valley Economic Development Centers, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, Vegas PBS, and the VA Southern Nevada HealthCare System will join Rep. Titus, local veterans and military members. 
The workshop will focus on resume building, transition of military skills, federal job applications, and job interviews. The workshop is part of a larger effort in the community to create more employment opportunities for Nevada’s 7,000 unemployed veterans. 
“The veteran unemployment rate is dropping, but 5.8 percent is still unacceptable,” Rep. Titus said. “We must work together -- government agencies, community organizations, and private businesses -- to help our nation’s heroes transition to civilian life and find good jobs that take advantage of and reward their training, skills, leadership qualities, and work ethic. In doing so, we will all benefit.” 
Background: 
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 495,000 unemployed veterans in 2015 – with 7,000 residing in Nevada. The unemployment rate for veterans who served on active duty since September 2001 is currently at 5.8 percent of the workforce, a 1.4 percent drop from the previous year. 
Event Details: 
Time: 3 pm to 6 pm
Date: July 21, 2016
Location: Vegas PBS, 3050 East Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, 89121
Participants: 
Kathleen Taylor, VEDC  
	Col. Steve Seroka, ESGR  
	Gregory Wolff, Department of Veterans Affairs  
	Toni Giddens, NV Work for Warriors",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-working-to-grow-renewable-energy-market-in-nevada,Titus Working to Grow Renewable Energy Market in Nevada,2016-07-13,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"July 13, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Washington D.C.  Today Congresswoman Dina Titus applauded her colleagues in the House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources for holding a hearing on legislation shes co-sponsoring to promote renewable energy development. The Public Land Renewable Energy Development Act of 2015, H.R. 2663, will encourage renewable energy development by simplifying the permitting process for wind, solar, and geothermal energy generation on federal land. The bill also protects lands by directing federal proceeds from royalties and rental payments for conservation projects. 
  
	With this legislation Nevada can continue developing as one of the nations leading renewable energy markets, Rep. Titus said. This bill will give the federal government the ability to deploy renewable energy resources in a 21st Century framework that allows us to battle climate change and grow our economy. The nation cannot afford to waste any more rays of sunshine, plumes of steam, and gusts of wind.
Background
  
	The Bureau of Land Management has identified 20.6 million acres of public land with wind potential and over 19 million acres with solar potential. But the current lack of a regulatory and statutory structure governing access to federal land has hindered the rapid development of renewables.  
	Renewable energy companies need a more streamlined permitting process. The nation also lacks a fair revenue structure that benefits states and counties affected by renewable development.  
	The legislation will establish the Renewable Energy Resource Conservation Fund to be used for conserving land affected by renewable development. It directs revenues, including royalties and rental payments from renewable projects on public lands, to counties, the states, and the Fund.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-provision-to-fight-human-trafficking-passes-in-faa-extension,Titus Provision to Fight Human Trafficking Passes in FAA Extension,2016-07-12,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"July 12, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Washington, D.C.  Today Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevadas First Congressional District and member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure applauded the decision to include in the Federal Aviation Administration short-term extension bill her provision to require that airlines train industry employees on how to recognize and report human trafficking.Last night the House passed the short-term extension bill, H.Res.818, to authorize the FAA until September 2017 and offer a variety of public safety measures for the aviation industry.
These crimes dont just happen on the ground and are just as hard to spot in the sky, said Rep. Titus, a member of the House Subcommittee on Aviation. Airline industry employees are in the best position to recognize and report the signs of human trafficking in our skies and can play a key role in stopping the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.
""We thank Representative Titus for her steadfast leadership incombatinghuman trafficking and getting thenecessary tools to Flight Attendants to serve as more than 100,000 eyes in the skies saving lives.We all recognize the horror of this crime, but we must take action to stop it.Within a global struggle to combat this problem of epidemic proportions, aviation's first responderscan play a key role in the fight against human trafficking,"" stated Sara Nelson, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO.
Background on Human Trafficking Provision
Rep. Titus originally had this language in a standalone bill, the Secure Our Skies Act, but moved to attach it to the FAA extension legislation.
The human trafficking provision will require airlines and contractors to develop training materials for their employees to help spot common indicators of human trafficking and offer best practices for reporting suspected cases to law enforcement.
According to the United Nations International Labour Organization, 21 million people worldwide, including 5.5 million children, are reported victims of human trafficking. Cases in the United States are increasing with an estimated 17,500 people subject to sex and labor trafficking every year. The National Human Trafficking Resource Center, a national hotline, reported a 10% increase in reported cases in 2015, with 6,000 cases being reported.
Nevada is among the leading states for cases of reported human trafficking. In 2013, there were 81 reported cases of trafficking. In 2015, those numbers increased to 133 reported cases, a quarter of which involved children under 18. Of those 133 reported cases, 114 involved sexual exploitation.
Background on FAA Extension 
The FAAs funding for operations is scheduled to expire on July 15th. This extension legislation ensures the FAA will continue its operations under current funding levels until September 2017.
This bipartisan, bicameral measure provides stability for the U.S. aviation system and important aviation safety, security, and time-sensitive improvements for air travelers while Congress continues to develop a long-term reauthorization of the FAA.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-basin-and-range-national-monument-s-one-year-anniversary,Titus Statement on Basin and Range National Monuments One-Year Anniversary,2016-07-11,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"July 9, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas – Today Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District released a statement to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Basin and Range National Monument on July 10, 2016.
“One year ago, I was proud to participate in the designation of Basin and Range National Monument with President Obama, Senator Reid, and all the Nevadans who had advocated for establishing this lasting symbol of public spaces and public art. As we celebrate Basin and Range’s first anniversary, let us remember that it is a grand privilege and responsibility to protect Basin and Range’s wondrous tableau of ancient drawings, mountains, flora, and fauna for generations to come. Together we must all keep working to preserve this time capsule of Nevada’s many cultural, historic, and natural wonders.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/rep-titus-we-will-not-be-bribed-for-yucca-mountain,Rep. Titus: We will not be bribed for Yucca Mountain,2016-07-07,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"July 7, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Washington, D.C. – Today Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District testified in front of the House Subcommittee on Environment and Economy to protest the GOP’s farcical hearing to promote a nuclear waste dump at Yucca Mountain entitled, “Federal, State, and Local Agreements and Associated Benefits for Spent Nuclear Fuel Disposal.”   
	Below is an excerpt of the Congresswoman’s remarks from the hearing and background information. You can watch her complete testimony here. 
  
	 “Members of Congress may board a plane to my District and then be shuttled out to the desert north of town for a photo op where they can see the dry and desolate moonscape where Yucca Mountain is located. But they should not be fooled by such a superficial look at lands Nevadans love and want to protect. Southern Nevada is not a wasteland. It is home to unique desert habitats, rare and endangered species of plants and animals, iconic wildlife like Big Horn Sheep and Desert Tortoises, and cultural resources from Native American tribes dating back thousands of years. 
  
	“Such a quick visit also ignores the fact that beneath the surface are major fault lines and a water table that moves toward the Las Vegas Valley. Furthermore, the waste to be stored has to be shipped thousands of miles across the nation on highways and byways that travel through small towns and big cities, farmlands and scenic preserves, near churches, schools, and neighborhoods in almost every Member’s district. God forbid there be an accident.”
Background
  
	The title of the hearing was political “nukespeak” from a cohort of congressional Republicans who falsely promise Nevada benefits in exchange for accepting the dump. There is no reason to believe that these same Republicans, who have failed to pass a budget and shut down the government over spending differences, are going to appropriate extra bribe money for Nevada.   
	Along with her testimony, Rep. Titus also provided the subcommittee with letters of opposition from The Nevada Resort Association, The Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce, The League of Women Voters, The Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada, The Nevada Nuclear waste Task Force, Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval, and the Democratic leadership of the Nevada Legislature.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-faa-bill-to-bolster-nevada-drone-industry,Titus Statement on FAA Bill to Bolster Nevada Drone Industry,2016-07-06,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"July 6, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
  
	Washington, D.C. – Today Representative Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional district and member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee applauded provisions included in a bipartisan short-term extension authorizing the Federal Aviation Administration through 2017. The legislation includes provisions Rep. Titus championed to bolster Nevada’s growing Unmanned Aviation Systems (UAS) industry. 
The legislation ensures that Nevada will remain a leader in developing drone standards and operations by reauthorizing the state as one of six UAS Test Sites through 2020. Authorization for the Nevada UAS Test Range and the other sites was set to expire next year. The bill also includes key safety measures the Congresswoman authored for the development of a low-altitude unmanned traffic management system that will be vital to the commercialization of this important technology. Other provisions include a pilot program for detecting airborne UAS at the nation’s airports and increased authority to prosecute incidents of reckless UAS use. 
“Whether it’s flying millions of people into McCarran International Airport or bringing fresh-caught lobsters to resorts on the Las Vegas Strip, the aviation sector has long been an industry of innovation in Nevada and an integral part of our economy. This bill will continue that distinction by keeping Nevada as a premier hub of growth for the UAS industry while maintaining the valuable partnership between the FAA and the state.” 
BACKGROUND:
The FAA’s funding for operations is scheduled to expire on July 15th. This legislation ensures the FAA will continue its operations under current funding levels until September 2017. The Senate passed FAA reauthorization legislation in April. The House reauthorization legislation stalled because of a Republican-backed attempt to privatize the nation’s air traffic control system. There are no measures to develop or study privatization in the compromise legislation. The compromise legislation is expected to be on President Obama’s desk by next week.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-independence-day-0,Titus Statement on Independence Day,2016-07-04,2016,2016-07,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"July 4, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Las Vegas, NV – Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First District released the following statement in recognition of Independence Day:
“This year we pause on Independence Day to celebrate and reflect on our nation’s past, present, and future. While we remember our great successes as a country, we must persist in the pursuit of equality and justice for all. As we gather with family, friends, and neighbors to celebrate the Fourth of July, take the time to honor those who have made great sacrifices in defense of our freedom. I wish you and your family a happy Independence Day.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-whole-women-s-health-v-hellerstedt,Titus Statement on Whole Womens Health v. Hellerstedt,2016-06-27,2016,2016-06,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"June 27, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
  
	Washington, DC -- Today Representative Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District issued a statement on the U.S. Supreme Court’s 5-3 decision to strike down  Texas’ restrictive anti-abortion law, HB 2, in the case of Whole Women’s Health v. Hellerstedt. 
HB 2 enacted such onerous restrictions on Texas’ abortion care providers that it would have forced 75 percent of the state’s clinics to close. It was the greatest threat to women’s reproductive freedom since Roe v. Wade. 
“The State of Texas should not waste its time interfering with the reproductive rights of women. For more than 40 years, American women have had the right to safe and legal abortions and today’s decision upholds that access. For too long Republicans have attacked women’s health care. Today’s ruling is a clear signal that they are out of line and wasting time.”   
Background on HB 2
HB 2 would have required doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles of where the procedure takes place. Furthermore, abortion clinics would have to be retrofitted to meet hospital-grade standards of ambulatory surgical centers. These restrictions are often known as “TRAP laws” (targeted regulation of abortion providers). In a state with 5.4 million women of reproductive age, HB 2 would have created a gap of 500 miles between San Antonio and the New Mexico border without a single clinic.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-designation-of-stonewall-national-monument,Titus Statement on Designation of Stonewall National Monument,2016-06-24,2016,2016-06,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"June 24, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Washington, DC – Representative Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District released the following statement in response to President Obama’s designation of the Stonewall National Monument.
“Nearly 50 years ago this week, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals at a small bar in Greenwich Village said enough is enough and stood up to injustice and discrimination. Their actions that night sparked the LGBT civil rights movement that continues to this day. As a proud sponsor of legislation to permanently protect the Stonewall Inn and recognize its importance to United States history and the LGBT rights movement, I applaud the President’s decision.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-bill-to-cut-wait-times-for-veterans-0,Titus Statement on Bill to Cut Wait Times for Veterans,2016-06-23,2016,2016-06,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"June 23, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
  
	Washington, D.C. – Today the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs took a major step toward ensuring veterans receive the benefits they have earned in a timely fashion  by holding a hearing on a critical piece of legislation, H.R. 5083, the VA Appeals Modernization Act of 2016, which is sponsored by Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District.   
	The legislation will reform the Department of Veterans Affairs’ framework for processing appeals on disability claims for service-related injuries. Right now there are more than 460,000 veterans stuck in an appeals backlog waiting for a decision. The average wait time is longer than two years and is estimated to balloon to a decade if reforms are not enacted.  The VA estimates that Rep. Titus’ proposal would decrease wait times and save the VA at least $2.6 billion.
  
	The current process offers no clear pathway for dissolution of an appeal. Congresswoman Titus’ legislation outlines three distinct routes for veterans and a structure that will provide definitive conclusions in appeals cases. Veterans will be able to choose the path that best fits the specifics of their individual case.   
	Veterans file an appeal if they disagree with the VA’s initial determination of their benefits eligibility application.   
	After the hearing, Congresswoman Titus issued a statement on her bill.    
  
	“When I became a member of the VA committee in 2013, much of the focus was on the VA’s disability claims backlog. We’ve reduced that backlog from more than 600,000 to about 75,000. As we focused our efforts on the claims, I pointed out that the appeals backlog would likely grow. Since 2012, we’ve seen just that. The appeals backlog has skyrocketed to almost 500,000, causing significant wait times for veterans.  
  
	“We must not miss this opportunity to reform an outdated and overcomplicated system that’s only had one major update since it was first developed in 1933. The VA supports this legislation along with groups like the VFW, DAV, IAVA, AMVETS, American Legion and others. We are committed to cutting wait times and revamping an antiquated system to meet the needs of all veterans. We must take action now to ensure that we serve those who serve our country. The backlog grows every day we wait.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-supreme-courts-immigration-decision,Titus Statement on Supreme Court's Immigration Decision,2016-06-23,2016,2016-06,Democrat,House,NV,Dina Titus,T000468,titus.house.gov,,,legacy,"June 23, 2016  
	Contact: Kyle Roerink  
	Phone: 202-657-3219
Washington, D.C. – Today Representative Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District issued a statement on the U.S. Supreme Court’s 4-4 decision that upholds a lawsuit challenging President Barack Obama’s immigration programs known as expanded Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA). President Obama proposed these programs in 2014 after Republicans in the U.S. House refused to move forward on a comprehensive immigration reform bill drafted by a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators known as the Gang of Eight. Post haste, 23 Republican governors filed a lawsuit, United States V. Texas, to halt the president’s executive actions. 
  
	“The Supreme Court’s action is bad for Nevada and the rest of the country,” Rep. Titus said. “For years, millions of families have had to remain in the shadows because of the GOP’s refusal to pass a reform bill in Congress and more recently a politically driven lawsuit.  This problem is especially acute in Nevada where ten percent of the workforce is undocumented and more than 17 percent of students have at least one undocumented parent. Republicans can address this situation by working with Democrats to pass a comprehensive reform plan. It’s time for Republicans to do their job. We should focus on keeping families together, not building walls.”    
 
Background on expanded DACA and DAPA:  
  
	The measures would have provided relief to more than 5 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. who meet strict criteria outlined by the Department of Homeland Security. They would have allowed certain undocumented parents and children to have temporary protection from deportation and opportunities to apply for work permits after Homeland Security officials conduct background checks and case-by-case reviews of applicants.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z