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://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=526,"McAdams, Romney push for passage of Utah Navajo water bill",2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UTCongressman Ben McAdams and Senator Mitt Romney are urging action on a bill that would secure clean drinking water for Navajo Nation in Utah. McAdams and Romney sent a joint letter to the House Speaker, House Majority Leader, and House Committee on Natural Resources Chair urging passage of the Navajo Utah Water Rights Settlement Act. Access to clean, running water is something everyone should have for the health and safety of their families. It is unthinkable that right here in my home state, families on the Navajo Reservation are forced to do without this crucial resource, said McAdams. The Navajo Utah Water Rights Settlement Act is the result of collaboration between the state of Utah, Navajo Nation, and the federal government. I'm glad to stand with Senator Romney in urging for action on this important legislation. McAdams says he's proud to work with Senator Romney on this legislation that will lead to water infrastructure for the Navajo Nation and will settle a decades-long negotiation over water rights. The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted the Navajo Nation in our state, and the shortage of running water in nearly half of homes is contributing to the spread, Senator Romney said. People deserve to have running water, and with each day our legislation is held up by the House Democratic Leadership, Utah Navajos continue to experience hardship from lack and shortage of running water. The Navajo Water Rights Settlement Act has been a very long time in the making, and I was proud that the Senate unanimously passed it. Congressmen Bishop, Curtis, and McAdams are leading the fight in the House to get this legislation across the finish line, and it is my hope that it will not continue to be unreasonably held up. Let's send this bill to the president's desk without any more delay. McAdams and Romney's letter says, As you are aware, Indian Country, and especially the Navajo Nation, has been devastated by COVID-19 in large part because of the lack of safe drinking water for essential preventative measures, such as hand washing. On the Navajo Reservation, nearly 40 percent of the population lacks running water and/or adequate sanitation in their homes. The Navajo Utah Water Rights Settlement Act would work to address this issue by providing approximately $220 million in funding for drinking water projects on the Reservation. The Navajo Utah Water Rights Settlement Act passed in the Senate earlier this year as part of a package of Tribal water bills (S. 886). McAdams and Romney's letter specifically requests that S. 866 be placed on the House floor for a vote and final passage as soon as possible. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=523,McAdams urges agreement to block funding for explosive nuclear weapons testing in final defense bill,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams is working to strike funding in the final version of an annual defense authorization bill to stop any resumption of explosive nuclear weapons testing by the Administration. McAdams and five House colleagues sent a letter to House and Senate leaders who will lead the conference committee that will resolve differences in House and Senate-passed versions of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). A final bill will be voted on later this year. In July, McAdams and his colleagues passed an amendment with bipartisan support in the House version (H.R. 6395) that prohibits any funding to conduct or prepare for new explosive nuclear weapons testing. The bill passed by the Senate (S. 4049) makes $10 million available for the United States to carry out an explosive nuclear weapons test. McAdams' letter repeats his strong objections to any plans by senior members of the Trump administration to resume nuclear weapons testing, given the tragic consequences for Utahns living downwind. From 1945 to 1992, the United States conducted more than 1,000 nuclear weapons tests. These tests, both above and below ground, produced radiation which drastically affected the health of thousands of Americans across the West, resulting in cancer and premature deaths. Generations of families adjacent to the test site unnecessarily suffered because of the federal government's negligence, says the letter. McAdams' letter states that nuclear weapons experts in the Department of Energy and the National Nuclear Security Administration have certified for decades that our nuclear weapons stockpile remains safe, secure and reliable without the need to resume explosive tests. Utahns trusted the government when it told them they were safe, even as federal officials knew about the danger. At a time when Utahns are still suffering and dying from exposure to the radioactive fallout from explosive testing, why would we ever want to go down that path again? said McAdams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=510,"McAdams helps more than one thousand Utahns cut through red tape, recover what they were owed",2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UTCongressman Ben McAdams announces a milestone of successfully helping one thousand Utahns overcome issues with government agencies. McAdams and his staff regularly assist Utahns to sort out frustrating problems with offices like Social Security, Veterans Affairs, and the Internal Revenue Service. One of the most important parts of my job is breaking through barriers to help Utahns overcome mistakes and delays by federal agencies. There is no issue too big or too small if you need help with a government agency call me, said McAdams. My staff and I have helped Utahns to get almost $1 million back in unpaid tax refunds and other money they were owed, assisted small businesses in getting coronavirus relief funds, and even resolved a 50 year old filing error so a deserving war veteran could finally get his Purple Heart medal. McAdams says it is an honor to serve Utahns in these meaningful ways, including one Utah family that was on a cruise this spring when they were redirected to a military base for a COVID-19 quarantine. Unexpectedly in this situation, members of the family were left without their lifesaving insulin and contacted McAdams' office for help. McAdams says his staff spoke with Monica, on behalf of her parents and West Jordan residents, to arrange for their medicine to be delivered and then helped with travel arrangements back home. Monica said, Ben McAdams is my hero. You guys got it done! We are eternally grateful to your office and staff. Words just aren't enough here, it was such a rough time, and now that part of the journey is over. Vanessa from West Jordan had a clerical issue with the IRS resolved, thanks to McAdams' team, resulting in a return of more than $8,000. If I didn't have the help from this office, I guarantee I would not have received my refund yet. I'm appreciative of people willing to go to bat for me when my voice was unable to be heard, said Vanessa. McAdams says that to date, his office has successfully assisted 1,055 Utahns cut government red tape, resulting in more than $899,000 returned to Utahns. More information on government agencies Congressman McAdams can help with, and to see more success stories, visit the website here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=507,"McAdams backs measure for greater accountability, restoring trust in Congress",2020-10-08,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams announces his support for a bill that ensures no automatic pay increases for members of Congress and other provisions aimed at increasing accountability and transparency. The bipartisan Foster Accountability, Integrity, Trust, and Honor (FAITH) in Congress Act (H.R. 8305) enacts common-sense reforms and tax dollar protections. This bill creates a number of reforms to improve trust in and accountability of Congress. It includes items I have been fighting for, such as stopping automatic pay raises for members of Congress and requiring no budget, no pay', meaning that Congress must do its job passing a budget or they don't get paid, said Congressman McAdams. McAdams says the bill, introduced by Rep. Stephanie Murphy (D-FL) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), also prohibits first-class travel at taxpayer expense, bans members of Congress from later becoming lobbyists, and prioritizes bipartisan legislation over partisan measures. The FAITH in Congress Act ensures that all members will be held to higher standards, recognizing our duty as careful stewards of tax dollars and a responsibility to all Americans, said McAdams. Rep. McAdams spoke about his support for the FAITH Act on House floor. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=502,McAdams votes against partisan COVID measure,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams voted today against the Heroes Act (H.R. 8406) which lacks bipartisan buy-in. McAdams calls on leadership from both sides of the aisle to negotiate a deal that can pass and be signed by the President. Today's bill is a step in the right direction but is still weighted down with partisan wish list items, unrelated to the COVID crisis. That is why I am voting no. I am frustrated that the bill before us today is an exercise in futility while we should be focusing our energy on passing bills that will get relief to the millions of struggling Americans during this economic crisis, said McAdams.I call on all sides to come together, put partisanship aside, and present a measure that will get Democratic and Republican votes a smart plan that responds to the ongoing public health and economic emergency facing us. There's a deal to be made. Put partisanship aside and make it, said McAdams. McAdams says there are many provisions in the bill that have bipartisan support and should be the basis of a deal. These include additional support for struggling families and small businesses through an additional round of Economic Impact Payments, Paycheck Protection Program forgivable loans, tax credits to help employers maintain employees on payroll, and support for childcare services. While prioritizing emergency COVID relief for hardworking families, McAdams says we also need to consider our nation's skyrocketing debt. All emergency spending must be targeted to help those in need as they deal with the health and economic effects that the pandemic has on communities, small businesses, and the economy. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=499,McAdams announces bill aimed at preventing veteran suicides,2020-09-25,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams announces bill aimed at preventing veteran suicides September 25, 2020 West Jordan, UTCongressman Ben McAdams' bipartisan bill to prevent veteran suicides passed in the House this week. The VA High Altitude and Suicide Research Act (H.R. 8173) studies the connection between living in high-altitudes and rates of suicide. The bill passed will now go to the President's desk for his signature. The veteran suicide rate is one and a half times higher than that of overall suicides. We must do everything we can to prevent these tragic deaths and help those who have given so much to our nation, said Congressman McAdams. McAdams' legislation passed as part of a bipartisan package of veteran bills (S. 785) designed to improve mental health care services for veterans and provide additional support to the VA for reducing veteran suicides.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=498,"McAdams’ solar energy, clean air bills pass in the House",2020-09-24,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams voted today for a bipartisan package that helps to build a clean energy economy, supports job growth, and addresses climate change. The bipartisan bills include two of McAdams' measures, the Solar Energy Research and Development Act and the Background Ozone Research Study Act. They were included in the Clean Energy and Jobs Innovation Act (H.R. 4447), which passed the House today with bipartisan support. Solar energy and air quality solutions are two key parts to a healthy, clean environment, said Congressman Ben McAdams. The backbone for sustainable solutions is investing in and expanding our clean energy economy. Utah is a leader in this area, with an innovative solar energy sector and continued focus on efforts to clean the air. McAdams says his bipartisan Solar Energy Research and Development Act (H.R. 3597) boosts research, development, and deployment of solar energy technology. Utah is a leader in solar energy with an industry that supports 7,000 jobs and has installed 1.8 megawatts overall of solar-generated power, according to Solar Energy Industries Association. McAdams' bill ramps up solar research that industry innovators can use to expand the clean energy resource. The bipartisan Background Ozone Research Study Act (H.R. 4656) will help to clean Utah's air, specifically targeting ozone, a pollutant that is the primary component of smog. McAdams says his bill directs the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine to study and provide actionable steps we can take to reduce ozone pollution. A vibrant clean energy economy is good for our health and environment while supporting thousands of Utah jobs, said McAdams. By tapping into technology and innovation with scientific research, we can improve our air quality, address the threats of climate change, and grow Utah's economy. The House-passed package also includes measures to develop wind energy technology, improve and modernize grid energy storage systems, and reduce industrial emissions from steel and cement production. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=495,"McAdams’ bill to combat human, drug trafficking passes the House",2020-09-21,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams' bipartisan bill that works to protect innocent victims from illegal trafficking passed in the House today with unanimous support. The Stopping Trafficking, Illicit Flows, Laundering and Exploitation (STIFLE) Act of 2020 (H.R. 7592) targets the illicit financial networks used by traffickers to stop transactions before victims are harmed. Illegal trafficking, particularly human trafficking, leaves devastation in its wake, said Congressman McAdams. This bill stops those who use dark markets' to finance and hide their activities and profits. We need to identify, disrupt and prosecute these financial networks to stop these abhorrent crimes. McAdams says the STIFLE Act activates tools, partnerships, and guidance of a number of federal agencies, including the Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network and federal financial regulators to help financial institutions identify techniques and patterns of transactions that may involve the proceeds of trafficking. The legislation requires the Comptroller General to report findings to Congress with recommended actions needed to combat trafficking or money laundering the proceeds. McAdams introduced the bill with Rep. Anthony Gonzalez (R-OH) and says it was previously approved by the House as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Today the STIFLE Act was approved as a standalone bill. We must investigate and stop traffickers, using any means necessary. This bill provides law enforcement with better tools to identify traffickers and infiltrate their financial networks in order to stop the repugnant acts and protect victims, said McAdams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=493,"McAdams’ amendment increases police funding, supports police officers and services",2020-09-18,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UTCongressman Ben McAdams today announced he is proposing an amendment that supports law enforcement in hiring and training police officers. The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) Program provides funding for local police agencies for officer recruitment, training, crime prevention, and mental and behavioral health programs. McAdams' proposal would increase available funding by 50 percent, or roughly $174 million nationwide. Local police are part of the fabric of our communities. Increasing funds in this grant program gives Utah law enforcement agencies greater ability to recruit and train quality officers, said Congressman McAdams. Byrne JAG also provides flexibility in the use of funds so that communities can invest in resources that reduce crime such as drug treatment and mental health crisis intervention. McAdams says this year the state of Utah received nearly $1.5 million in Byrne JAG funds, while local communities received an additional amount of nearly $700,000. Salt Lake County's share of Byrne JAG funding this year is almost $100,000. Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera participated in the announcement, discussing the value of Byrne JAG for both the Sheriff's Office and the Unified Police Department. The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) has benefitted both the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office and the Unified Police Department by providing additional funding to the organizations. Funding has been used for training,equipment and to enhance our Officer Wellness and Mental Health Programs. We appreciate Congressman Ben McAdams for his efforts in looking into adding more funding to the program, said Sheriff Rosie Rivera. McAdams says boosting Byrne JAG funding will bolster law enforcement recruitment and training such as de-escalation training that helps to keep both police officers and members of our communities safe and healthy. I have seen firsthand that greater public safety is achieved when we come together - people of different perspectives, working alongside law enforcement, with the common goal of building healthy communities, said McAdams. Utah has shown that investing in police officers who are well-trained and dedicated to the people they serve, working alongside those in victims support and behavioral health, results in better outcomes and safer communities. Today, I am calling for greater investment in what we know works. McAdams says Byrne JAG program funding can be used for state and local initiatives, personnel hiring and training, equipment, prosecution and courts, crime prevention and education, drug treatment, crime victim and witness assistance, mental health and related corrections programs, and behavioral health and crisis intervention teams. States and localities can tailor their spending to meet local community needs. McAdams will propose his amendment in the House of Representatives next week. More information on Byrne JAG state funding and local Utah funding is available here and here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=491,McAdams’ bipartisan STEM education bill passes the House,2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams' bill to improve and expand STEM education for rural Utah students and teachers, passed today with unanimous support in the House. The Rural STEM Education Act (H.R. 4979) provides effective and affordable online teaching tools to educators, helps with teacher recruitment, and improves broadband internet connection in rural communities. Rural communities face unique barriers to STEM education, such as fewer math and science teachers, higher teacher turnover rate, and less reliable internet connectivity, said Congressman McAdams. This bill gives educators and students tools to help overcome these challenges, particularly as schools increase their use of online learning in response to the pandemic. McAdams says nearly half of all public schools are considered rural with more than nine million students in the United States attending rural schools. In Utah, 15 percent of students statewide attend rural schools. We must not overlook the bright students in Utah's rural communities. These students can go on to make impactful advances in science or technology, and the education they get now would be what sets them on that path, said McAdams. Representative Frank Lucas, (R-OK) is the Republican sponsor of the bill which brings together the National Science Foundation, National Academies, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, and other federal agencies to support STEM education in rural communities. McAdams says the organizations will work to advance research, promote adoption of proven teaching tools, and expand STEM access to rural students nationwide. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=489,"McAdams, Utah advocates highlight dangers and unacceptable costs of restarting explosive nuclear weapons testing",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Salt Lake City, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams together with a nuclear weapons scientist, a Utah downwinder and other Utah advocates cited the urgent need to fight against White House plans to resume explosive nuclear weapons testing at the Nevada Test Site. The last underground explosive test occurred in 1992, ending decades of harmful release of radioactive fallout across Utah and other states. Utahns are still suffering and dying from cancers and other illnesses associated with exposure to radioactive fallout. The federal government lied about the danger from these tests and still refuses to be held accountable for the extent of the damage. I'll continue to do everything possible to block this dangerous and unnecessary plan, said McAdams. McAdams participated in a public virtual roundtable with Utah downwinder Mary Dickson, community advocate Steve Erickson, Utah Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (UCAN) leader Deb Sawyer, and the Nuclear Threat Initiative's Dr. Jill Hruby, moderated by Lilly Adams from the Union of Concerned Scientists. In Congress, McAdams has led efforts to block spending in annual defense and appropriations bills for test site readiness or conducting new explosive nuclear weapons testing. A Senate version of the defense bill includes $10 million in funding for the administration to pursue that course of action. Dr. Hruby said that as the former director of one of the nation's three nuclear weapons labs, she signed annual letters certifying that the science-based Stockpile Stewardship Program maintains the U.S. nuclear arsenal as safe, reliable, and secure. She said America has invested more than any other nuclear-armed country in high fidelity computers, modelling, non-nuclear subcritical tests and other sophisticated scientific methods to maintain its nuclear weapons stockpile after the 1996 Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty halted underground tests. In my opinion, any decision to restart nuclear weapons testing would be driven by political, not technical reasons, said Dr. Hruby. She said if the United States resumes underground explosive testing, it would incentivize other nations to stop abiding by the testing moratorium and restart their own testing programs. Mary Dickson said that given what thousands of Utahns have experienced from past explosive testing, conducting new explosive tests would be morally reprehensible. If we have learned anything from the illness, suffering and deaths due to the federal government's actions, it's that we were not protected and we were not safe, said Dickson. Community advocate Steve Erickson talked about documented cases of extensive fallout released into the atmosphere from past underground tests, such as the 1970 Baneberry' detonation. Government records show that it released 80,000 curies of iodine-131 present in fallout that drifted over Utah, Idaho and Montana. A study by the National Cancer Institute in 1997 estimated that exposure to iodine-131 resulted in tens of thousands of cases of thyroid cancer. Erickson said that the federal Office of Technology Assessment reported that 18 percent of all the underground tests following Baneberry has released some radiation into the atmosphere. UCAN director Deb Sawyer highlighted the bipartisan call in 2007 by former Secretaries of State George Schultz and Henry Kissinger, Senator Sam Nunn and former Secretary of Defense William Perry for the world to reduce the reliance on nuclear weapons as a step towards ending the threat proliferation poses to the world. Dr. Hruby also said that a return to explosive testing is not good for the United States' well-planned Stockpile Stewardship Program. She said underground explosive testing is enormously expensive and money that is now spent on the weapons science program would be diverted to explosive testing, undermining the tremendous scientific investment made in this country. McAdams also highlighted his efforts to expand and extend the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), to ensure that more victims of government negligence and harm receive compensation for cancers that developed from exposure to the nuclear tests.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=483,McAdams: elevated risk to U.S. economy from growing debt burden,2020-09-03,2020,2020-09,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, Utah Congressman Ben McAdams said new Congressional Budget Office (CBO) numbers on federal deficits and debt are flashing red lights warning of an unsustainable federal budget outlook. The CBO projects that the debt will eclipse the size of the entire economy next year, increasing from 79 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2019 to 104 percent of GDP in 2021. The gross U.S. debt today totals over $26 trillion, or roughly $80,000 per U.S. citizen. The skyrocketing debt threatens the future of generations to come. There are consequences if we don't rein it in. It swallows other spending priorities and threatens our national security, said McAdams. Republicans and Democrats must come together now to get our fiscal house in order. We are running out time. McAdams said projections show that annual deficits will be $2.1 trillion higher than estimated prior to the pandemic. All major trust funds, including the Highway Trust Fund, Medicare Hospital Insurance, and Social Security Disability Insurance will be insolvent by 2031. During a fix the debt exercise this week with the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, McAdams said Utahns weighed in on prioritizing budget choices with the goal to reduce the national debt. Utahns take seriously the consequences of burdening future generations with a staggering amount of debt. Their insights into how we should tackle the issue will be front and center for me as I look at upcoming budget decisions, said McAdams.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=473,McAdams backs America’s time-honored postal service,2020-08-22,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DCCongressman Ben McAdams voted today to preserve the historic and valued U.S. Postal Service. The bipartisan Delivering for America Act (H.R. 8015) ensures mail delivery continues to homes, businesses, and rural communities throughout the nation. We must protect the U.S. Postal Service and ensure it continues to serve families in Utah and across the country, said McAdams. Post office mail delivery is part of the fabric of our nation, enshrined in the Constitution. Veterans rely on the post office to deliver their medications, seniors count on receiving their Social Security checks in the mail, and small businesses depend on timely postal delivery to ship goods across the country. McAdams says support for the U.S. Postal Service has overwhelming bipartisan support. Republicans and Democrats have expressed a desire to provide post office funding as it deals with the effects of COVID-19. The Delivering for America Act ensures the U.S. Postal Service operates at full levels through at least January 2021 and provides $25 billion in emergency funds to help with losses experienced as a result of the coronavirus. McAdams has been working to improve the services and effectiveness of the U.S. Postal Service prior to the pandemic. He introduced bipartisan legislation (H.R. 3577) in June 2019, to expand and improve services in rural communities, where the local post office is often a community gathering place. The United States Postal Service is a nonpartisan, essential service, and a piece of America's treasured history. Americans know their mail carriers, and often greet them as they bring medicine, pay checks, and birthday cards in a timely manner. We will preserve and protect mail delivery and the system that has made it happen for hundreds of years, said McAdams. McAdams continues to urge Congressional leadership to get back to the negotiating table and come to a bipartisan agreement on the next COVID-19 relief package. I'm glad to see bipartisan action to support the postal service, but at the same time, Congress must not lose focus on the need to help hard-working Americans who are still grappling with the public health and economic consequences of COVID-19, said McAdams. Utahns need COVID-19 relief now and I am continuing to fight for a smart, balanced bill that can pass both the House and Senate and be signed by the President. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=471,McAdams to House leadership: take action on COVID-19 relief now,2020-08-20,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams to House leadership: take action on COVID-19 relief now August 20, 2020 West Jordan, UTCongressman Ben McAdams joined a group of Republicans and Democrats on a letter to U.S. House leadership telling them negotiations on the next COVID-19 relief package must resume now. Millions of Americans are out of work and communities in Utah and throughout the nation are still grappling with the health and economic consequences of the pandemic. We must act now, said Congressman McAdams. It is unacceptable that hard-working families are forced to wait for support because partisan bickering has stalled the crucial negotiations needed to get a COVID-19 relief package across the finish line. The letter, signed by 18 Republicans and Democrats, says, During times of national emergencies, the American people look to elected officials to set aside their differences and take action through a sense of shared purpose and direction. The time for excuses has passed: Congress must work together and find compromise to jumpstart this process. We urge you to continue negotiations as soon as possible. McAdams says a bill to address the public health crisis and aid economic recovery is critical, and any action must be bipartisan and focused on COVID-19 response. Partisan wish lists will not result in meaningful support for Utahns who need COVID-19 relief and should not be added to a relief package. All sides must come together on a bill that can pass in both the House and Senate and be signed by the President. The letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=472,Congressman McAdams named ‘Fiscal Hero 2020’,2020-08-20,2020,2020-08,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UTCongressman Ben McAdams has been named this week as a 2020 Fiscal Hero by the nonpartisan Fix the Debt group, for his work to reduce the national debt while pushing for greater accountability and oversight measures in Congress. Fix the Debt is a Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget project that works to raise awareness about our country's rising national debt. Our nation's skyrocketing debt is a bipartisan problem that requires Republicans and Democrats working together to tackle. We owe it to our children and future generations to face this issue in every decision we make, said Congressman McAdams. I commit to continuing to work with members of both parties to address our debt and get our nation's fiscal house in order. McAdams said he continually addresses the rising debt, citing his introduction of a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution and more recently when he fought for oversight measures to be included in COVID-19 response bills, to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. Maya MacGuineas, head of the Campaign to Fix the Debt, said, ""This country has a risky financial outlook. Even before the pandemic, Congress continued to increase the national debt, leaving the widening deficit gap for our children's' generation to solve. In his first term in Congress, Rep. McAdams has emerged as a true leader and a pragmatic policymaker who reaches across the aisle to find solutions to move toward a safer fiscal path. His willingness to make the tough decisions needed to manage the national debt in times of economic growth is admirable. I applaud his proactive leadership on this issue and hope that other lawmakers will follow his example."" McAdams is joining Fix the Debt for a Debt Fixer virtual event on September 1st. He says he's looking forward to the chance to discuss this issue with Utahns while participating together in a budget exercise. More information on the Debt Fixer event can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=461,McAdams votes against budget-busting six-bill spending package,2020-07-31,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams voted against a multi-bill spending package totaling $1.3 trillion in federal spending next year. McAdams said the six-bill minibus' spending measure (H.R. 7617) would increase funding by over $200 billion compared to the previously agreed upon spending caps. Another day, another enormous deficit-growing bill that lacks accountable budget decision-making. Additional emergency spending to provide relief for Utah families still staring down a public health and economic crisis may be needed soon, and that crisis requires us to be laser-focused on spending priorities, said McAdams. Hard choices on how and where to economize must be made. McAdams said the package does include priorities he fought for, such as language prohibiting spending to conduct or preparing for new explosive nuclear weapons testing. He also added amendments to provide additional funding for the Central Utah Project Completion Act program, which delivers clean drinking water to fast-growing Utah and Salt Lake counties, and for the Utah Clean Cities energy efficiency program. McAdams also added two child safety amendments, which would increase funding for the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force to battle online sexual predators, and additional support for Children's Justice Centers to serve child survivors of abuse. McAdams added an amendment to provide additional funding for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which serves thousands of Americans struggling with a mental health crisis. He also joined on an air quality amendment which would provide additional funds for low- or no-emission bus purchases, which are needed to improve Utah's air quality. All of McAdams' amendments were paid for by reductions in other spending in the bills. Drawing the line on spending isn't easy, but it's necessary to start us down a path of restoring fiscal sanity when it comes to the federal budget, said McAdams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=452,McAdams votes against big spending in four-bill package,2020-07-24,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams votes against big spending in four-bill package July 24, 2020 Washington, D.C.--Congressman Ben McAdams voted against a measure totaling $260 billion in federal spending next year. McAdams said the four-bill minibus spending legislation (H.R. 7608) would increase funding for nearly all covered programs compared with last year's fiscal spending levels. At a time when we are hitting all-time record monthly deficits, we have to look for ways to tighten our belt, said McAdams. Emergency spending to provide relief for the COVID-19 public health and economic crisis is important and more may soon be needed. Faced with that, just like every Utah family does during a crisis, we must find ways to economize where we can. McAdams says the measure also includes numerous unrelated policy riders and raises spending by $48 billion over last year's adopted spending caps, which McAdams opposed last year for adding nearly $2 trillion to the national debt over the next 10 years. This ongoing spending binge has to be reined in. We are on an unsustainable and reckless fiscal path, said McAdams.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=445,McAdams cheers environmental success of funding for national and state conservation program,2020-07-22,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams said Utah natural areas, wildlife habitat, water resources, and recreational opportunities received a huge win' today with bipartisan House approval of the Great American Outdoors Act, which provides the full $900 million funding amount for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The measure also provides $9.5 billion (over five years) to address the national park maintenance backlog. Last month the Senate passed identical legislation by a vote of 73-25. Utahns are blessed to be surrounded by so many treasured natural areas, from lakes and rivers to parks and red rock canyons. This conservation program, at no cost to the taxpayer, will ensure they are preserved and accessible to our children and grandchildren in the future, said McAdams. The LWCF was established in 1964 to provide national investment in national and state parks, wildlife refuges, forests, trails, watershed and recreational access. The fund uses offshore oil drilling fees to enhance conservation and outdoor recreational opportunities at no cost to the taxpayer. In 2019, Congress voted to permanently reauthorize the LWCF in the John D. Dingell Conservation, Management and Recreation Act (S. 47). This successful conservation program has provided funding over the years to help protect some of Utah's most special places, including the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge and the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, said McAdams. Our physical, mental and emotional well-being, our quality of life and our economy all receive a tremendous boost from access to Utah's outdoor landscapes. McAdams said that chronic underfunding of LWCF has created substantial unmet conservation and recreation needs and has caused local, state, and federal land management agencies to postpone or cancel many important projects. Further, as Utah's economy begins to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 economic shutdown, America's outdoor recreation industry will be vital to that effort. In Utah alone, it contributes over $12 billion and supports 110,000 jobs. He said local, county and state projects have also benefited from the federal program. From the inception of the LWCF, Utah has received nearly $200 million in funds for outdoor recreation, parks, natural resources and historic monuments, said John Bradley, President of the Utah Recreation and Parks Association in a letter of support for the bill. Because of COVID-19, tourism has essentially stopped. Many of our recreational sites are facing massive financial shortfalls resulting in loss of jobs and resources to maintain and preserve these cherished sites. McAdams said the bill includes critically needed funding to address the $12 billion maintenance backlog facing the national parks, including $220 million for Utah's five national parks and monuments. Zion National Park has $67 million in deferred maintenance backlog while Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Canyonlands have over $20 million each. These beloved parks continue to be among the most-visited national parks in the country. The Great American Outdoors Act is supported by a broad coalition of outdoor groups and recreational businesses including: Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting and the Outdoors, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the RV Industry Association, the U.S Tour Operators Association, The Nature Conservancy, the Coalition to Protect America's National Parks, the American Hiking Society, the National Wildlife Federation and hundreds of other national, regional and local groups. More information about the scope of Land and Water Conservation Fund projects in Utah is here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=442,McAdams ban on funding for new explosive nuclear weapons tests in House-passed defense bill,2020-07-21,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams supported a defense bill passed by the House which includes his amendment to prohibit funding to restart nuclear weapons testing and his bipartisan bill to combat trafficking by targeting money laundering. The 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)H.R. 6395 passed the House with support from both sides of the aisle. McAdams put forward his amendment on nuclear weapons testing after reports of discussions by White House officials to conduct an explosive nuclear weapons test. The Senate version of the NDAA includes $10 million for the purpose of preparing for such a test. Thousands of Utahns are still dealing with trauma inflicted by bombs exploded from decades past, leaving a legacy of illness, suffering and death. Why would we ever go down that path again? said McAdams. The U.S. maintains the most effective and capable nuclear deterrent in the world. We have done so while observing a moratorium on explosive nuclear testing for the past three decades. McAdams said the bill also expresses the sense of Congress that the U.S. should compensate any miners, workers and downwind populations that suffered from the effects of uranium mining and nuclear testing during the Cold War. McAdams successfully added his bipartisan bill targeting illegal trafficking and money launderers as an amendment. The STIFLE Act (H.R. 7592) combats illicit actors trafficking in drugs, arms, wildlife and humans, by cracking down on dark markets' used to finance and hide their crimes and profits. McAdams said the NDAA meets U.S. military readiness needs and supports the nation's military men and women and their families. It also authorizes a 3 percent military pay raise, and a Pandemic Preparedness and Resilience National Security Fund to strengthen the nation's defenses to pandemics. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=440,McAdams blocks funding for restarting explosive nuclear weapons testing in defense bill,2020-07-20,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams today passed his amendment to prohibit funding for conducting or preparing for any explosive nuclear weapons test. His amendment passed the House during consideration of the fiscal year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 6395). Thousands of Utahns are still dealing with trauma inflicted by bombs exploded from decades past, leaving a legacy of illness, suffering and death. Why would we ever go down that path again? said McAdams during his House floor speech in support of his amendment. McAdams put forward his amendment after reports of discussions by White House officials to conduct an explosive nuclear weapons test. The last such test occurred in 1992. McAdams notes the Senate version of the NDAA includes $10 million for the purpose of preparing for such a test, and a Defense Department official said a test could be conducted within months if ordered to take place, highlighting the urgency of enacting his amendment. The U.S. maintains the most effective and capable nuclear deterrent in the world. Officials have done so while observing a moratorium on nuclear explosive testing for the past three decades, made possible by the success of the science-based Stockpile Stewardship Program and a rigorous annual assessment process. For generations, Utahns have experienced higher rates of cancer and other serious medical conditions due to harmful radiation exposure, leading to thousands of premature deaths. We have a moral imperative to prevent additional harm to our citizens, said McAdams. In addition to his NDAA amendment, McAdams successfully pushed House leaders to put language in next year's spending bills, prohibiting the use of funds for test-site readiness or weapons testing. McAdams says these are timely and important Congressional steps, but he will not rest until this prohibition becomes law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=437,McAdams bipartisan bill targets illegal traffickers and money launderers,2020-07-17,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams, together with Ohio Congressman Anthony Gonzalez, is calling for a federal effort to combat trafficking in humans, drugs and weapons by targeting money laundering and illicit financial networks used by criminals. McAdams has introduced H.R. 7592--the Stopping Trafficking, Illicit Flows, Laundering and Exploitation Act (STIFLE) of 2020. Trafficking is a scourge on society, leaving millions of victims in its wake. Recent reports show that the global business of transnational crime is valued at between $1.6 to $2.2 trillion annually, resulting in crime, violence, terrorism, corruption and human suffering, said McAdams. Illicit actors engaged in traffickingwhether in drugs, arms, wildlife, organs, or humansuse dark markets' to finance and hide their horrific activities and profits. We need to identify, disrupt and prosecute these financial networks to stop these abhorrent crimes. Ensuring our law enforcement officers have the tools to combat illegal trafficking is vital to protecting our children from exploitation, preventing an influx of illegal drugs, and maintaining our national security, said Gonzalez. The STIFLE Act encourages collaboration between our financial institutions and federal law enforcement, and will help ensure that anti-money laundering tools are effective in preventing trafficking from being not only possible, but also profitable. McAdams says the bill activates tools, partnerships, and guidance of a number of federal agencies, including the Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network and Federal financial regulators to help financial institutions identify techniques and patterns of transactions that may involve the proceeds of trafficking. The legislation requires the Comptroller General to report findings to Congress along with recommendations for legislative or regulatory changes needed to combat trafficking or money laundering the proceeds. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=430,McAdams prohibits funds for explosive nuclear weapons tests in House spending bill,2020-07-13,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams prohibits funds for explosive nuclear weapons tests in House spending bill July 13, 2020 Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams' language to prohibit spending on explosive nuclear weapons testing is included in an annual spending bill approved by a House committee today. The prohibition is included in the Energy and Water Appropriations bill for the budget year beginning October 1st. Earlier this month, McAdams wrote to House leaders, including the chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water, as they met to consider next year's spending bills. For generations, Utahns have experienced higher rates of cancer and other serious medical conditions due to harmful radiation exposure, leading to thousands of premature deaths. I believe it is imperative that the Energy and Water Subcommittee prohibit additional explosive nuclear testing on U.S. soil and prevent additional harm to our citizens, said McAdams' letter. McAdams said that the Trump Administration recently announced plans to resume explosive nuclear weapons tests, despite the ongoing certification of the safety, security and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile. McAdams said he is doubling down on stopping the funding in multiple spending and authorization bills moving through Congress. More from McAdams here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=423,McAdams prohibits funding in House bill for new explosive nuclear weapons tests,2020-07-06,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams said next year's House spending bill covering the Energy Department's National Nuclear Security Administration will prohibit the use of funds to conduct or make preparations for any explosive nuclear weapons test. McAdams wrote to House leaders, including the chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water, as they meet to consider next year's spending bills. His language is included in House bill text released today, ahead of upcoming committee and House floor consideration. For generations, Utahns have experienced higher rates of cancer and other serious medical conditions due to harmful radiation exposure, leading to thousands of premature deaths. I believe it is imperative that the Energy and Water Subcommittee prohibit additional explosive nuclear testing on U.S. soil and prevent additional harm to our citizens, the letter states. McAdams said that the Trump Administration recently announced plans to resume explosive nuclear weapons tests, despite the ongoing certification of the safety, security and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile. Any plan to resume nuclear weapons tests would again put us downwind' of deadly radioactive fallout, even as the government has still not atoned for the devastating consequences from earlier nuclear weapons tests, said McAdams. I thank Chairwoman Kaptur for this important step, and I will continue to fight until this prohibition is signed into law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=414,McAdams sees urgent need for bipartisan transportation and infrastructure bill,2020-07-01,2020,2020-07,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams says a measure to improve roads, highways, bridges and water infrastructure is overly partisan, not targeted, and too burdened by red tape to ever become law and therefore he could not support it in the House. The Moving America Forward Act (H.R. 2) is a $1.5 trillion package combining a broad range of bills, including several bipartisan stand-alone bills that McAdams said he does favor. This bill is an unfunded wish list without any effort to figure out how we're going to pay for it. The last several months have seen unprecedented levels of spending to get us through the COVID-19 health and economic crisis, but we can't continue to spend trillions of dollars on every priority by adding it to the national credit card. We have to invest in our country's infrastructure, but we have to do it in a fiscally responsible way, said McAdams. McAdams said public transportation items he pushed for, such as more funding for zero emission buses, transit-planning grants and eligibility for double-tracking FrontRunner are included in the legislation. Also included is new renewable energy infrastructure development on public lands and additional investments in the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. While there are many elements of the bill he supports, McAdams said he's opposed to the total cost, with many of the provisions paid exclusively by deficit spending. Modernizing our transportation system is too important to our economy to be stuck in Washington gridlock. Make no mistake, Democrats failed with this bill. I am committed to working with Republicans and Democrats in both the House and Senate to get this done, said McAdams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408,McAdams votes to lower health care costs; protect people with preexisting conditions,2020-06-29,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams today voted for a measure which strengthens the Affordable Care Act for individuals, families and children, incentivizes Medicaid expansion by the states and lowers prescription drug prices. McAdams supported the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act (H.R. 1425), which passed the House with bipartisan support. We must make sure Utahns can get quality healthcare they can afford. Now more than ever our families need peace of mind that a preexisting condition or getting laid off from a job won't cost them their insurance coverage or prevent them from getting treatment for a sick family member, said McAdams. McAdams said the bill, among other things, fixes the family glitch, thereby expanding access to tax credits for working families to purchase health insurance through the exchange. It also provides money to the states to establish a state reinsurance program or use the funds to provide financial assistance to reduce out-of-pocket costs for individuals enrolled in qualified health plans. It provides incentives for states to expand Medicaid and provides 12-months of continuous eligibility for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). In Utah, more than 40,000 children are enrolled in CHIP. The measure also requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to negotiate with drug manufacturers for certain selected drugs. McAdams said the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projects that a fair price negotiation program will lower prescription drug prices significantly and would save $42 billion on other health care costs such as doctor and hospital visits thanks to overall improved health. The measure, according to the CBO, would also lower individual health insurance premiums by 10 percent and extend health insurance coverage to an additional 4 million Americans. The high cost of prescription drugs, such as insulin, is straining families' budgets and forcing some families to make the devastating decision to forgo or ration their prescriptions. This must be changed. This bill provides much needed relief to seniors and others who rely on these life-saving medicines, said McAdams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399,McAdams supports the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act,2020-06-25,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams supported legislation that puts forward effective policing reforms that will result in a more fair and just system for Black Americans. The measure is a response to recent incidents of horrific violence that have claimed the lives of Black Americans at the hands of law enforcement, including the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers. Our country faces an important moment of reckoning. Too many Black Americans are dying at the hands of some in law enforcement. The sad truth is that equality, fairness and justice are not given as a matter of law to all citizens. This bill takes important steps to support communities as they implement reforms and seek to build trust between all residents and law enforcement, said McAdams. McAdams said key reforms in the bill (H.R. 7120) include: Raising accountability with law enforcement, including a requirement for federal body cameras. Utah has a state body camera requirement for law enforcement. Tools for law enforcement agencies to improve themselves including transparency in police disciplinary records and implementing citizen review boards. Training and de-escalation measures to reduce deadly interactions between Black Americans and some in law enforcement, including a ban on choke holds similar to the ban passed by the Utah legislature. The legislation does not defund the police as some have called for. Most police officers diligently do their jobs to protect our communities and keep us safe. I do not support the idea of defunding the police. I do support police reforms. These reforms continue to build on the important criminal justice reforms that have occurred at the local, state and federal levels, said McAdams. Following passage in the House, McAdams said it is critical that discussions go forward with Republicans and with the U.S. Senate and agrees with Senator Mitt Romney that both the House and Senate bills have much in common. McAdams said he wants to see differences hammered out and a final vote on a police reform measure that will become law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397,McAdams signs onto bill to stop resumption of explosive nuclear weapons testing,2020-06-24,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams is supporting legislation to prevent the Trump Administration from restarting explosive nuclear weapons testing. The Preserving Leadership Against Nuclear Explosives Testing (PLANET) Act (H.R. 7140) has been introduced by Nevada Representatives Dina Titus and Steven Horsford in response to the administration's discussed plan to re-start nuclear weapons testing at the Nevada Test Site. The last of more than 1,000 atomic weapons tests occurred on Sept. 23, 1992, when a 20- kiloton underground blast took place. Never again should Americans' health and safety be at risk from deadly radioactive fallout. We continue to pay dearly for trusting the government to protect us from past nuclear weapons testing and I am committed to stopping this dangerous and unnecessary scheme, said McAdams. At a time when thousands of Utahns are still suffering and dying from radiation exposure-related cancers and other diseases, this is unconscionable. Over the last two decades, the Secretaries of Defense and Energy in both Republican and Democratic administrations have annually certified that the U.S. stockpile is effective and secure. The Department of Energy's nuclear lab directors have assessed that the federal government knows more about its nuclear stockpile through the Stockpile Stewardship Program than it did during the era of testing. McAdams said the PLANET Act would: Prohibit the use of funds appropriated in fiscal year 2021 or from any previous year to prepare for or to conduct an explosive nuclear test that produces any yield Allow for stockpile stewardship activities that are consistent with U.S. law such as certifying the safety, security and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, so long as those activities are consistent with the zero-yield scope of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) Massachusetts Senator Edward Markey has introduced a companion bill in the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=367,McAdams: Court ruling on Dreamers a temporary but crucial win,2020-06-18,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DCCongressman Ben McAdams hailed the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that gives hundreds of thousands of young immigrants known as Dreamerspermission to remain here and legally work and pursue their education. The ruling rejects the President's effort to end the legal protections offered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The individuals known as Dreamers are our classmates, our coworkers, our neighbors and members of our congregations. Brought here as young children, this is the only home most of them have ever known. They are working, serving in the military, enrolled in college, and are giving back to the community. The Supreme Court ruling today is welcome news that for now, they will be able to continue their lives, said McAdams. A year ago, McAdams voted for the American Dream and Promise Act of 2019, which includes an earned pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients. It passed the House with bipartisan support, but the legislation has not been taken up in the Senate. Dreamers in Utah who participate in DACA arrived in the U.S. at the average age of 8 years old. In Utah's 4thCongressional District, 7,200 individuals are part of the DACA program. Over the past three years, actions by the administration have threatened to end the DACA program, creating tremendous uncertainty for DACA recipients, their families, their communities, and their employers. McAdams said that DACA recipients in Utah own 2,500 homes and pay $28 million in annual mortgage payments, as well as contribute $138.7 million in federal taxes. This court ruling is an important but temporary reprieve. Now it is up to Congress to work together and pass the reforms to our broken immigration system that will give Dreamers the certainty they deserve and will strengthen families, communities and our economy, said McAdams.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=362,McAdams cheers anti-discrimination ruling from U.S. Supreme Court,2020-06-15,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams cheers anti-discrimination ruling from U.S. Supreme Court 6-3 decision upholds LGBTQ hiring protections June 15, 2020 West Jordan UtahCongressman Ben McAdams says today's U.S. Supreme Court decision that firing an LGBTQ or transgender individual violates federal civil rights law is a long-sought non-discrimination victory. The court ruled on a trio of workplace cases in three different states. There's no place in our country for discriminating against an employee on the basis of sex and this court ruling upholds that legal principle. Utah was a leader in outlawing workplace and housing discrimination against LGBTQ individuals and now the high court has ruled those protections are the law of the land, said McAdams. In 2015, Utah passed, and Governor Gary Herbert signed, bipartisan legislation to bar discrimination against LGBTQ individuals in housing and jobs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=361,McAdams: Treasury Dept. owes taxpayers answers on where PPP loans are going,2020-06-12,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams said he is outraged by the statement this week from the Treasury Secretary that he won't disclose the recipients of more than $500 billion in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans because it is confidential information. What part of it's taxpayer money' does he not understand? These tax dollars are meant to help Main Street businesses in cities and towns across the country. We know that is not what is happening, based on news accounts of large companies getting these loans while small business owners were left out in the cold. Transparency, not secrecy, is the only way to keep faith with citizens that their money is getting to those for whom it was intended, said McAdams. The U.S. Government Accountability Office - an independent, nonpartisan agency tasked with oversight of taxpayer dollars - also reports that the Treasury Department has failed to turn over requested data regarding the PPP loans. This raises troubling questions on the agencies' lack of transparency and accountability. More from McAdams here. In April, McAdams sent a letter to the Treasury Secretary and the SBA Administrator critical of the Paycheck Protection Program rollout and questioning whether big corporations unfairly gamed the system. McAdams is still waiting for a response. Bipartisan legislation to increase flexibility and make other improvements to PPP loan forgiveness has now become law, and McAdams said he's urging small businesses to learn about the changes as they maximize the economic relief it provides while minimizing the red tape. But he said that is not a substitute for transparency for the public about which businesses have received the money. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=354,McAdams fights for less red tape around PPP,2020-06-09,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Sandy, Utah Congressman Ben McAdams, Utah Small Business Development Center Director Michael Finnerty and a local small business owner discussed help for small businesses as they apply for loan forgiveness for money received through the Small Business Administration's (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program. Congress provided nearly $660 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) in March and April. The loans are to help small businesses stay afloat and keep employees on the payroll and are forgivable, under certain conditions. After hearing from numerous lending institutions and small business owners, McAdams supported the bipartisan Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020, which was signed into law by President Trump last week. It provides critical reforms to the original PPP. It wasendorsed by a coalition of 55 organizationsand will create more flexibility for small businesses by: Extending the expense forgiveness period from eight weeks to twenty-four weeks Reducing the 75 percent payroll ratio requirement Eliminating 2-year loan repayment restrictions for future borrowers Allowing payroll tax deferment for PPP recipients Extending the June 30 rehiring deadline This new law provides much-needed flexibility to businesses who needed to spend PPP loan proceeds but could not open in order to do so, said McAdams. It's a start, but I'm calling for a drastically simplified loan forgiveness application to streamline the red tape facing small business owners. I'll continue to push that with the Treasury Department and SBA. McAdams sent a bipartisan letter to six U.S. Senate leaders last week, describing suggested changes to the loan forgiveness application that would ease the burden on both borrowers and lenders of small PPP loans under $350,000. He said he'll continue to press for that with SBA. The COVID-19 outbreak has wreaked financial havoc throughout the state of Utah, leaving many small-business owners struggling in its wake. The Utah Small Business Development Center program has been there from the beginning of the economic shutdown to help small businesses gain access to cash, retain employees, reevaluate business models, and begin the recovery process, said Utah Small Business Development Center State Director Michael Finnerty.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=357,McAdams honored with inaugural award for reaching across the aisle in Congress,2020-06-09,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams today received the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Jefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanship. He was one of only 20 House members to earn the award for his work during the first part of the 116th Congress. This is the first year that the Chamber has recognized members of Congress who in their actions have demonstrated a willingness to work across the aisle in support of getting good public policy enacted. I'm proud to receive this award and grateful to the U.S. Chamber for prioritizing bipartisanship. I have long believed that the best approach to serving Utah's hard-working families is to listen, build relationships and find common ground in order to make progress. During this unprecedented time in our country, with millions unemployed as we battle COVID-19, and citizens peacefully protesting on behalf of fairness, equality and justice, we urgently need to bring people together to find solutions, said McAdams. Now more than ever, our nation needs elected leaders with the courage to pursue common ground and bold, bipartisan solutions to America's greatest challenges, said U.S. Chamber President Suzanne Clark. This award honors the deserving members of Congress that are forging common-sense solutions, working across the aisle, to enact lasting and meaningful reforms. The Jefferson-Hamilton Award is presented to the 10 top senators and 20 top members of Congress, apportioned by party, based on the number of bills a member cosponsors introduced by a member of the opposite party. McAdams received a score of 98 percent. McAdams has supported numerous Chamber-endorsed measures, such as passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Agreement (USMCA) and reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank, both of which will create and sustain jobs. McAdams said another jobs bill was H.R. 2207 to repeal a medical device tax. McAdams said the medical device industry employs 400,000 Americans, including thousands in Utah, who develop advanced medical technology to improve health, save lives, and generate efficiencies in the health care system. Congress passed the repeal and the president signed it into law last December. McAdams said he remains committed to working with both Democrats and Republicans and the White House to enact laws that support the efforts of hard-working Utah families to build a healthy, safe and prosperous future. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=347,"Small business loan program improvements passed by House, Senate, become law",2020-06-05,2020,2020-06,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Small business loan program improvements passed by House, Senate, become law Provides crucial loan forgiveness flexibility June 5, 2020 West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams said with House and Senate passage and the President's signature on bipartisan legislation, small businesses now have more flexibility on terms for Paycheck Protection Program loan forgiveness. The Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 (H.R. 7010) takes effect just as loan forgiveness applications are due from small businesses who first received loans in early April. Utah led the country in processing these loans so that small businesses could provide paychecks to hard-working employees during the COVID-19 shutdown. Many small businesses, through no fault of their own, may not be open or fully functional within 8 weeksthe original deadline to spend the funds for loan forgiveness, said McAdams. Now they have more time and more flexibility to make qualifying expenditures for loan forgiveness. McAdams signed onto the legislation, which was endorsed by the bipartisan Problem-Solvers Caucus, after hearing from both lenders and small businesses about the need for improvements to the original Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Utah financial lenders alone processed nearly 48,000 loan applications totaling $5.2 billion to Utah small businesses. The program is designed to help small businesses stay afloat and keep employees on the payroll during the economic shutdown response required by the public health risk from the coronavirus. Among other things, McAdams said it will: Extend the PPP loan forgiveness period to include costs incurred over 24 weeks after a loan is issued, or through Dec. 31, whichever comes first. Businesses that received a loan before the measure is enacted could keep the current eight-week period. Maintain forgiveness amounts for businesses that were unable to rehire employees or find similarly qualified workers by the end of the year. Give borrowers greater flexibility to use the funds without limiting loan forgiveness. The Small Business Administration will now be able to include the provisions in guidance it prepares for lending institutions and small business loan recipients. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=343,McAdams supports small business loan program improvements; greater transparency,2020-05-28,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams voted for two bipartisan House measures that give small businesses more flexibility on terms for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness and provide more transparency for use of taxpayer dollars. The program was designed to help small businesses stay afloat and keep employees on the payroll. Congress provided nearly $660 billion for the Small Business Administration (SBA) program. Utah financial lenders alone processed more than $5.2 billion in SBA loans. Utah led the country in processing these loans so that small businesses could provide paychecks to employees during the COVID-19 shutdown. Many small businesses, through no fault of their own, may not be open or fully functional within eight weeks the original deadline to spend the funds for loan forgiveness, said McAdams. This bipartisan bill gives more time and more flexibility to make qualifying expenditures for loan forgiveness. McAdams signed onto the bipartisan Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 (H.R. 7010). Among other things, McAdams said it will: Extend the PPP loan forgiveness period to include costs incurred over 24 weeks after a loan is issued, or through Dec. 31, whichever comes first. Businesses that received a loan before the measure is enacted could keep the current eight-week period. Maintain forgiveness amounts for businesses that were unable to rehire employees or find similarly qualified workers by the end of the year. Give borrowers greater flexibility to use the funds without limiting loan forgiveness amounts. Extend the deadline to apply for a PPP loan to Dec. 31, from June 30. McAdams also supported the TRUTH Act (H.R. 6782), which requires the SBA to submit a report on recipients of assistance of more than $2 million under PPP and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Specifically, the SBA must publish the identity of the recipient of assistance and an explanation of the decision-making process; the number of employees assisted and the date on which the assistance was disbursed. The bill failed to get the necessary two-thirds vote. McAdams said he's disappointed that taxpayers will not receive the information they deserve. I've been calling for greater transparency about whether tax dollars are reaching the intended recipients. Although this bill failed today, I will continue to press for answers about whether small businesses were treated fairly, said McAdams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=333,"McAdams, mental health experts answer questions, offer tips on stress management during COVID-19 response",2020-05-21,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, Utah Congressman Ben McAdams and three Utah mental health experts held a webinar for Utahns to learn about strategies and tips for coping with mental health challenges during the response to the coronavirus public health crisis. The hour-long discussion included a question-and-answer segment for the public to voice their concerns and learn about available resources. We're all focused on preventing the spread of the coronavirus and staying physically healthy but taking care of your mental health is just as important, said McAdams. Good mental health can help you and your family better cope with COVID-19 and the uncertainty and upheaval it has created in our lives. McAdams hosted the event, which included U of U School of Medicine psychiatrist Dr. Travis Mickelson; American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Utah area director Taryn Hiatt, and National Alliance on Mental Illness Utah Chapter executive director Rob Wesemann. Dr. Mickelson said currently we all hear the terms unprecedented and novel, raising fears of the unknown. He said one of the best things parents can do is listen to their children's questions and answer them honestly. He said we all need a sense of safety and to know that our needs will be met food, shelter and safety. Dr. Mickelson said kids within a family may differ in their ability to cope with stress and parents should realize that they know their children best and will know when they are struggling. Help give them confidence that as children they are succeeding and doing things well. Taryn Hiatt said one bright spot is that mental health is now part of the conversation, as everyone is experiencing some level of anxiety. She noted mental health is an important aspect of human health and we can all learn strategies to protect our brain health. She urged listeners to look for warning signs such as changes in sleep, eating and energy, changes in mood, anger, or level of interest in usual activities and social withdrawal. Rob Wesemann, executive director of NAMI-Utah, said it's so important to maintain a focus on mental health and have a list of resources available. Wesemann highlighted free NAMI support groups online, including groups that support family members of loved ones with mental health conditions. He urged listeners to maintain a routine, take frequent breaks, notice any unusual symptoms, and be available to listen. Questions from listeners ranged from how to help children cope with stress under current circumstances, to loneliness by those in quarantine and how to return to normal, to how young people can get help, when they are not currently enrolled in school. The webinar was recorded and can found here. A free emotional health relief hotline is available at 833.442.2211 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=334,McAdams gives plasma donations to ARUP/U of U research on possible COVID-19 treatment,2020-05-21,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Sandy, Utah Congressman Ben McAdams joined physicians from ARUP Laboratories and University of Utah Health to highlight research into the effectiveness of convalescent plasma as a possible COVID-19 treatment. ARUP Laboratories and University of Utah Health can give convalescent plasma to COVID-19 patients under the federal Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) national expanded access protocol program. ARUP began collecting COVID-19 convalescent plasma from individuals in April. Plasma is the liquid part of blood with antibodies that can be collected from survivors of COVID-19. Researchers want to know how COVID-19-specific antibodies might help other patients fight the disease. McAdams was hospitalized for eight days after contracting the coronavirus. After recovering and testing negative, McAdams donated plasma to ARUP in April and again this week at the ARUP Blood Services Sandy Donor Center. If my experience can somehow play a small part in helping relieve suffering for other patients with COVID-19, I'm glad to participate. This promising research by doctors and scientists at ARUP and the University of Utah Medical Center may produce a treatment for those infected with this new virus, said McAdams. McAdams' donation contributed to an inventory of convalescent plasma that ARUP began building in April for research use. So far, two patients with COVID-19 have been transfused with convalescent plasma at University of Utah Hospital as part of the FDA expanded access program, which is led by Mayo Clinic. As the next step in their research, the U of U and ARUP hope to participate in a clinical trial, which is necessary to determine whether convalescent plasma can be used to treat COVID-19. In general, the role that antibodies play in controlling SARS-CoV-2 is yet to be established, so careful, rigorous studies of convalescent plasma transfusion are needed to better understand safety and efficacy, said Dr. Emily Spivak, U of U associate professor of medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases. To collect convalescent plasma, ARUP uses apheresis technology, which is more robust than the typical whole blood collection process, said Dr. Ryan Metcalf, associate medical director of ARUP Blood Services and University of Utah Hospital Transfusion Services. With apheresis, the plasma can be separated from the blood and the red blood cells returned to the donor. Metcalf believes ARUP and U of U Health are in a good position to participate in a clinical trial because ARUP has carefully prioritized donations from individuals such as McAdams who are believed to have the highest numbers of antibodies. We want to maximize the chance that the units we collect will be efficacious, so we are prioritizing donations from those individuals who have a stronger antibody signal, Metcalf said. Those people tend to be the ones who were most ill from COVID-19. He and Spivak hope to know soon whether they will join a clinical trial. Until then, the donated plasma may only be used for patients who qualify under the Mayo Clinic-led expanded access program. The convalescent plasma effort is one of several COVID-19 related projects on which ARUP and the U of U are collaborating. Both are involved in projects to determine whether certain drugs can be used to treat COVID-19. They are also collaborators in the Utah Health and Economic Recovery Outreach (HERO) project, a massive COVID-19 testing effort to gather data decision makers can use as they work to keep Utahns safe and get them back to work. ARUP is proud of the role we are able to play both in providing testing needed to diagnose, manage and treat COVID-19 and in helping advance knowledge about the disease, said CEO Sherrie L. Perkins, MD, PhD. More information about the COVID-19 related research underway at ARUP and U of U is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=326,"McAdams to vote against bloated, partisan measure; decries lack of COVID19-specific plan",2020-05-15,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams will not support legislation in the House later today, saying it is a partisan, dead-end measure loaded with political wish-list items unrelated to the public health and economic crisis facing the country. McAdams will vote against the Heroes Act (H.R. 6800) later this evening. This isn't a plan, it's a wish-list. At a time when thousands of people are sick, millions are out of work, and small businesses face bankruptcy, we should be laser-focused on a strategy that opens up business and gets people back to work while also addressing the public health crisis caused by this virus. Republicans and Democrats need to come together on a plan to put this crisis behind us and not waste time with party politics, said McAdams. McAdams said there are good things in the bill that he supports, such as more flexibility for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and a fix for the Adult Dependent payment gap that denied many Utahns an economic impact payment under the CARES Act. McAdams said the bill certainly did not need to include a tax cut for the wealthy, or heavy-handed government control of manufacturing that interferes with private sector partnerships getting frontline heroes much-needed personal protective equipment (PPE). The $3 trillion cost is also worrisome, as this year's budget deficit was projected to hit $4 trillion before this proposed spending. McAdams said getting the best result from every tax dollar spent is vital as deficits and debt skyrocket. Nonpartisan groups project the debt held by the public will exceed the size of the economy by the end of this fiscal year (Sept. 30th) and eclipse the prior record set after World War IIby 2023. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=305,McAdams: CARES Act offers financial relief for student loan borrowers,2020-05-06,2020,2020-05,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, Utah Congressman Ben McAdams joined a Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) administrator and two student loan borrowers this week to highlight a federal government break for student loan borrowers during the coronavirus public health crisis. McAdams and SLCC Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Dr. Chuck Lepper met with reporters at SLCC's South Campus. McAdams said that the CARES Act, which was signed into law the end of March, included specific relief for most federal student loan borrowers. It automatically reduced interest to zero and suspended monthly loan payments through Sept. 30, 2020. The interest suspension started on March 13th. Eligible borrowers did not have to do anything to receive the relief. It was automatic and appears on their loan servicing documents. Congress wanted student borrowers to focus on staying safe and staying healthy, not to be worrying about their growing student loan balance. Recent college graduates carrying federal loans are dealing with the uncertainty of the economic shutdown. This relief offers one less financial obligation to juggle as they grapple with such things as childcare, employment and concerns about getting the virus, said McAdams. We thank Rep. McAdams for his support of students during this difficult time, said Dr. Lepper. Eligible borrowers are those with federally-held student loans, such as Direct Loans, Family Federal Education Loans, Perkins Loans, Parent Plus and Grad Plus. More information is available at the U.S. Department of Education's Federal Student Aid website. Student loans that are privately held are not eligible. Nationally, the average interest rate on federal student loans is about 5.5 percent. A typical monthly student loan bill is about $400. In Utah, students carry less student loan debt than in other states, but approximately 38 percent of Utah students have some loans to pay off. McAdams noted that since no interest is accruing through Sept. 30, some borrowers who can afford to do so may continue making payments or even making extra payments. During this time the entire payment will go toward principal, helping them payoff their debt faster. The CARES Act also halts all involuntary collection of federal student loan debt, including wage garnishment and tax refund offset. It also halts negative credit reporting relating to federal student loans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=300,McAdams calls for release of complete list of small business loan recipients,2020-04-29,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Midvale, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams said Utahns deserve to see the list of companies who received federal small business loans to answer troubling questions about whether tax dollars are reaching the intended recipients. McAdams said Congress wanted the nearly $700 billion loan programs to help small business owners struggling to keep employees on the payroll during the economic shutdown due to the coronavirus public health crisis. McAdams released a letter he sent to the Treasury Secretary and the Small Business Administrator, critical of the Paycheck Protection Program rollout and questioning whether big corporations unfairly gamed the system. When Congress approved spending billions of dollars to help small businesses and their employees survive this public health crisis, it wasn't for giant corporations with deep pockets. The tax dollars are meant to help Main Street businesses in cities and towns across Utah. That's not what is happening, based on the calls for help I've been getting from frantic business owners trying to keep paychecks going to their workers, said McAdams. Last week, McAdams said $310 billion in new funding for the forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans was approved, after an initial $349 billion was distributed in less than two weeks. McAdams' letter said that Monday's relaunch of the PPP lending system has been a failure and Treasury and SBA must take immediate steps to fix this program and provide Congress with the information necessary to ensure transparency and true oversight of the program. McAdams said his office has been flooded with calls from small business owners, such as All Points Travel in Murray, and Uplift Transport in Lehi, who have been stuck in the application line. McAdams said numerous Utah lenders have been unable to process their loan applications due to faulty SBA computer systems, leaving many small business clients out in the cold. McAdams also noted that according to the Treasury Department's own fact sheet, borrowers must certify in good faith that the loan is necessary to sustain their business. McAdams said Treasury Department documents say, it is unlikely that a public company with substantial market value and access to capital markets will be able to make the required certification in good faith and should be prepared for an SBA inquiry into the loan. It's not right and it isn't fair to thousands of hard-working Utah families. Taxpayer dollars must be spent in the way taxpayers intended. These agencies must release the list and provide a full accounting for how the money was distributed. Our nation's economy and the American business owners and their employees cannot afford failure, said McAdams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=298,McAdams says emergency K-12 school funding headed to Utah,2020-04-24,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, Utah Congressman Ben McAdams said the U.S. Department of Education is sending more than $67 million to Utah as part of emergency school relief funding included in the CARES Act. Overall, Congress approved $13 billion for the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund to help states with their response to the coronavirus outbreak and the effect on elementary and secondary schools. McAdams said the money can be spent on a wide range of activities, including purchasing computers and hot spot' devices for online learning; supporting the unique needs of underserved students, students with disabilities, and foster and homeless youth; training and professional development for educators; cleaning and sanitation; summer learning and other activities to maintain access to education. Support for Utah public education is especially critical now, as the state's budget takes a hit from the economic downturn that is occurring due to the necessary response to the COVID-19 outbreak. We must do everything possible to make sure students' education is not interrupted, teachers have support they need, and that learning continues even as schools are closed and kids are working from home, said McAdams. McAdams said the Bureau of Indian Education received a percentage of the CARES Act emergency education funding for its students, and one percent is reserved for competitive awards to states with the highest coronavirus burden. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=296,"McAdams supports billions more for small business loan programs, hospitals and testing",2020-04-23,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams voted for a bipartisan coronavirus aid measure that replenishes two Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs, offering an economic lifeline to small businesses forced to close due to the public health crisis. The Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act (H.R. 266) delivers an additional $310 billion to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which ran out of funds two weeks after its launch. The loan-forgiveness program gives small businesses money to cover payroll and other essential expenses so that employees continue to be paid. Utah families are suffering severe economic hardship as a result of our necessary response to halt the spread of COVID-19. They worry about how they are going to pay their bills and financially survive this crisis. PPP and the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) help us maintain a floor under Utah's small businesses and their hard-working employees as we transition to safely reopening, said McAdams. McAdams spoke on the House floor during debate. The legislation is the fourth measure approved by Congress in response to the public health and economic emergency from the highly-contagioussometimes lethaldisease. In addition to the $310 billion for the PPP forgivable loans, the bill provides $60 billion to the SBA's EIDL program, $50 billion in low-interest loans and $10 billion in emergency grants. The legislation also provides another $75 billion for hospitals and $25 billion for testing. Those funds could be used for manufacturing and distributing tests, procuring supplies such as personal protective equipment needed to administer tests, developing rapid point-of-care tests, and conducting surveillance and contact tracing. As much as $1 billion of the testing funds could be used to cover tests for the uninsured. The measure also sets aside $600 million for community health centers, as well as $225 million for rural health clinics. We must continue what is working, such as social distancing, hygiene, disinfecting surfaces and protecting the very vulnerable. In the meantime, we must provide critical economic support, including expanded funding for the PPP loans to Utah small businessesthe lifeblood of our economy and the engine driving a return to the state's prosperity, said McAdams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=292,McAdams calls on Democrats to get a deal – fund small business loan programs now,2020-04-17,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UTCongressman Ben McAdams today called on Congress to immediately pass legislation to add at least $250 billion to Small Business Administration loan programs for small businesses to keep the aid flowing to employers and employees. The loan programs, which were originally funded in the CARES Act, are out of money even as more Utah businesses have applications pending for financial help due to economic hardship from the coronavirus response. This is the emergency and this is the most important thing Congress can do to help Utah's working families keep receiving a paycheck to pay their bills as we continue our necessary response to the coronavirus. I'm calling on Democrats to make this deal and get the money to our small businesses now, said McAdams. McAdams said Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs supplied with $349 billion in the CARES Act are now out of money and the SBA cannot process applications without further funding approval by Congress. Utah businesses have received over $3.69 billion as of April 16th, through 21,757 loans. SBA provides loans to small businesses to cover payroll and other essential expenses. The loans can be forgiven if employers keep employees on the payroll. McAdams said after talking with Utah banks and credit unions, he estimates there are over 10,000 small business loans totaling over $1 billion dollars that are in the pipeline to be approved when the funding is in place.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=291,"McAdams calls for bipartisan agreement on more federal aid to small business, counties and local governments",2020-04-15,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams said a small business loan program will run out of money imminently and all sides need to come together to agree on additional funding. McAdams said Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs supplied with $349 billion in the CARES Act are approaching that limit and need quick action to keep economic relief flowing to small businesses affected by shutdown requirements due to the COVID-19 outbreak. More than one million Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans have been approved with a total value of more than $301 billion as of today, according to the SBA. Utah businesses have received over $2.6 billion as of April 13th. PPP provides loans to small businesses to cover payroll and other essential expenses. The loans can be forgiven if employers keep employees on the payroll. Another loan program the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program has been plagued by an unprecedented number of applications and a shortage of funds. The federal government normally disburses EIDL loans to small businesses hurt by tornadoes and wildfires, but last month expanded the program to help entrepreneurs hurt by coronavirus. I'm talking with small business owners, lenders and Utah families every day who are worried sick about how they're going to pay their bills and financially survive this crisis. We've seen record breaking need for emergency aid and the funds available for relief are draining fast. Nobody knows if the funding will still be available by the time their application finally gets processed. That's adding even more stress to Utah small businesses as they try to survive this crisis. In the meantime, Democrats and Republicans endlessly debate how to extend these critical programs. It's time to come together, strike a bipartisan deal and act quickly to shore up these programs and stop the economic pain to Utah businesses, said McAdams. McAdams said hospitals, cities and counties are also suffering, as the coronavirus outbreak has decimated their budgets. The Coronavirus Relief Fund established in the CARES Act uses a population-based formula to distribute economic aid to local government. Cities and counties with more than 500,000 residents may apply directly to the Treasury Department for cash relief, including Salt Lake County and Utah County but many smaller localities are also feeling economic effects from coronavirus response efforts and declining tax revenues. Small businesses are the economic lifeblood of our communities and this is not the time for partisan gridlock to block progress on our emergency response, said McAdams.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=285,McAdams calls on federal government to order more personal protective equipment,2020-04-13,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams is joining the bipartisan call in Congress for the federal government to issue a guaranteed order for medical supplies needed to combat COVID-19. McAdams joined other House members on a letter to the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) requesting the government order tens of millions of additional surgical masks, medical exam gloves, face shields, goggles and other personal protective equipment. Our front-line medical workers must have what they need to take care of infected patients safely. A guaranteed order from the federal government will provide the incentive to manufacturers to dramatically ramp up production, knowing there's a ready buyer for what they produce, said McAdams. Congress has already providedin the CARES Act $27 billion towards a fund for emergency preparedness and response as another means for ramping up PPE supplies. The letter to Secretary Alex Azar says that HHS should order the supplies to both assist states and medical facilities handling current COVID-19 cases and to replenish the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) after the surge of hospitalized patients subsides. On top of the grueling hours and overwhelming caseloads, health care workers should not be also forced to risk their personal safety to treat patients, the letter states. For guaranteed purchase orders from HHS, the letter lists the following, among other items: N95 respirators 3 billion Goggles 100,000 Face shields 20 million PPE coveralls 10 million Surgical masks 50 million Medical exam gloves 500 million pairs The letter also says coronavirus testing supplies should be part of the guaranteed order, including RNA testing kits, reagents and nasopharyngeal swabs. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=283,"First phase of CARES Act relief delivered to Utah hospitals, health care providers",2020-04-10,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"First phase of CARES Act relief delivered to Utah hospitals, health care providers April 10, 2020 West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams said today that 2,094 Utah hospitals and health care providers are receiving more than $185.3 million in emergency funding relief for the impact from the coronavirus response. Health care providers nationally are receiving an initial payment of $30 billion for public health and social services emergency funds which were included in the CARES Act signed into law March 27th. Hospitals and other health care providers are working around the clock to diagnose and treat those infected with and sickened by COVID-19. Every day, they are saving lives. The public health crisis requires them to forgo non-essential procedures and treatments, which comes at a steep cost. This relief will help keep the health care system functioning and help keep medical staff paid during unprecedented demand, said McAdams. The CARES Act appropriated $140 billion to support the U.S. health system. Over 70 percent--$100 billionis for a new program to give grants to hospitals, non-profit entities and Medicare and Medicaid enrolled suppliers to cover unreimbursed health care expenses or lost revenues resulting from the COVID-19 emergency. McAdams said he's monitoring concerns expressed from some Utah hospitals about potential funding gaps and will be compiling recommendations for improvements to the relief package going forward. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=279,Utah Community Health Centers receive coronavirus emergency funding,2020-04-08,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Utah Community Health Centers receive coronavirus emergency funding April 8, 2020 West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams said the Department of Health and Human Services has released $1.3 billion to nearly 1,400 health centers nationwide including $11.6 million to 13 health centers in Utah. The funds were included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, signed into law March 27th. Centers in Utah's 4th Congressional District to receive funds are: Community Health Centers, Inc., in Midvale $2,122,970 Utah Partners for Health, in Midvale $ 758,150 McAdams said the funds will help communities detect, diagnose and treat COVID-19 as well as maintain or increase health capacity and staffing levels. Community health centers are the backbone of our public health service in many areas of the state. They deliver essential services throughout the year but are particularly important during a public health crisis such as coronavirus. I have focused on support for these dedicated health care providers who are on the front lines helping Utah families during this outbreak, said McAdams. McAdams said that these health centers provide affordable, accessible, and quality primary health care to over 28 million people a year in the U.S., regardless of their ability to pay.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=272,"McAdams seeks fix for teens, young adults left out of economic impact payments",2020-04-02,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams says a tax filing definition in the federal relief legislation the CARES Actdenies economic impact checks to thousands of Utah teens and young adults who need it. He is supporting a bipartisan measure that would correct it and make their families eligible for the $500 per child economic impact checks. The definition for the $500 per qualifying child amount for families is limited to children under age 17. I'm supporting legislation that allows families to claim that amount on behalf of their older teens and young adult children, said McAdams. As it stands now, there are hundreds of thousands of Utahns in their twenties that are working and going to college and yet won't qualify for any economic impact aid unless they file a tax return separately from their parents. McAdams says the bipartisan bill he supports H.R. 6420would adopt a definition that would broaden the pool of families who would receive the $500 economic impact sum. The bill includes a more expanded version of a qualifying child for purposes of calculating a dependent the broader definition includes students up to age 24 and permanently disabled adults. High school juniors and seniors as well as college students are also suffering in this economic downturn. Many are unable to work jobs or start their summer employment, and many won't qualify for unemployment insurance. Every family situation is different, and some families rely on the income of their children to help make ends meet, which is why I'm working to ensure they receive this economic impact relief, said McAdams. McAdams says he hopes Congress passes this legislation as soon as possible and is urging lawmakers to include it in any future coronavirus relief bill Congress considers. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=273,McAdams: Treasury Department and SBA must clarify path for businesses to quickly access economic relief loans,2020-04-02,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams is urging the Treasury Department and Small Business Administration (SBA) to clarify questions from local financial institutions and small businesses about how they can apply for, process and receive funds established by Congress for the SBA's Paycheck Protection Program. The $349 billion relief program is an effort to keep workers in their jobs at a time when unemployment claims are skyrocketing. McAdams sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Mnuchin and SBA Administrator Carranza outlining his concerns. McAdams said he's hearing from local small businesses and financial institutions that guidance from the Treasury Department is desperately needed to avoid confusion. Currently small businesses and lending institutions are struggling to understand the program's requirements, which could lead to chaos when the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) opens Friday, overwhelming the SBA and its partners. Small businesses are unsure of whether they qualify, what lenders will participate, what documents they need to submit, and how quickly they can access funds from the loans. They face these questions as they are weighing difficult decisions for their businesses and employees decisions that could determine if the business is able to keep its doors open and keep employees on payroll, said McAdams. McAdams said he and his staff are part of a joint effort between the state of Utah and the Utah District SBA office. The Utah Economic Response Task Force has established a Rapid Response Team with volunteers from a number of Utah organizations. Its initial focus is supporting the Utah District SBA office as it responds to a flood of requests for assistance from Utah businesses seeking aid through the PPP and/or the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. In his letter, McAdams praised the collaboration between Utah's federal delegation, the Utah Economic Task Force and Utah's SBA office. McAdams says Congressional intent for PPP is to aid any small business or nonprofit hurt by the current coronavirus economic crisis to apply for help. This includes individuals who are self-employed or independent contractors who have been affected by the COVID-19 public health crisis. McAdams said more information is available on the Economic Response Task Force website. Answers must come quickly. Utah has already experienced more than 28,000 unemployment claims in one week. Those are employees whose families have already begun struggling to pay bills and keep their personal finances afloat, said McAdams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=271,McAdams calls on Treasury to automatically issue economic impact payments to Social Security recipients,2020-04-01,2020,2020-04,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams calls on Treasury to automatically issue economic impact payments to Social Security recipients April 1, 2020 West Jordan, Utah Congressman Ben McAdams called on the Treasury Secretary and the Social Security Administration to automatically provide economic impact checks to seniors and other vulnerable populations who aren't required to file tax returns. Millions of Americans receive Social Security benefits but are not required to file an annual return because their income is below the threshold for filing a tax return. The IRS announcement that many seniors, disabled veterans and Social Security beneficiaries are required to file a simplified tax return to receive the economic impact payments is government bureaucracy at its worst, said McAdams. The CARES Act is designed to deliver immediate help to Americans, especially those such as vulnerable seniors. It is wrong for the IRS to create unnecessary hurdles for these individuals when the IRS is able to coordinate with the Social Security Administration to facilitate these payments. I call on these government agencies to work together to uphold the intent of the CARES Act by getting the economic impact checks out immediately without imposing unnecessary requirements. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=267,"McAdams touts small business loan forgiveness, rural telehealth support as House approves CARES Act",2020-03-27,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams says House passage of the bipartisan Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act will deliver urgently needed resources to Utah families, small businesses, state and local governments, and health care providers as the coronavirus continues to wreak havoc on communities. The House approved the measure by voice vote on Friday, following earlier Senate passage by a vote of 96-0. It now goes to the President's desk. McAdams continues to receive treatment in a Utah hospital for COVID-19 but pushed for Utah priorities as the legislation was finalized. The bill certainly isn't perfect, but the support it provides for working families, our front-line health care providers and Utah small businesses and their employees, is critically important. Coronavirus remains a danger to our lives and our livelihoods, said McAdams. McAdams' priorities that are included in the measure: $200 million investment in services and devices that bolster FCC support for Skype-style health checkups by rural providers. Expanded telehealth capabilities by allowing doctors and practitioners in rural health clinics and federal-qualified community health centers to provide distant site telehealth visits to their patients under Medicare. Increased access to critical mental health services by appropriating $250 million for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics. Other provisions include $377 billion in direct financial support for small businesses and nonprofit organizations through forgivable loans and emergency grants. McAdams also pointed to a key oversight provision he championed a Treasury Department Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recoveryto track and account for disbursement and spending of taxpayer dollars. We will get through this by giving communities, health care providers and local governments the tools they need to respond quickly and efficiently to what's happening on the ground with maximum flexibility and accountability, said McAdams. Regarding his medical condition, McAdams remains in a Utah hospital, receiving oxygen treatment for shortness of breath and will stay until doctors release him to go home. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=264,"McAdams: Bipartisan coronavirus relief bill provides help for individuals, local governments, small businesses, health care workers",2020-03-26,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams: Bipartisan coronavirus relief bill provides help for individuals, local governments, small businesses, health care workers March 26, 2020 West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams says a bipartisan COVID-19 health and economic recovery bill in the Senate builds on two earlier legislative relief measures to provide a lifeline for individuals, small businesses, local governments and health care providers combatting the coronavirus outbreak. The Senate passed the measure by a vote of 96-0. McAdams remains hospitalized for COVID-19 treatment but is communicating with his Congressional staff and other members of Congress on details of the Senate bill. While the bill isn't perfect, McAdams said it's the bipartisan compromise on the table and Utah's working families and those fighting on the front lines urgently need the support. What's important now is that resources are headed to Utah families, small businesses and employees, hospitals and health care workers, and state and local governments. I remain focused on working with Utahns to counter the effects of this virus outbreak as it continues to hammer our communities, said McAdams. Provisions include: Direct financial support for individuals and families, in the amount of $1,200 per adult and $500 per child. The funds are distributed based on individuals' or couples' 2018 or 2019 tax filings. The Treasury Department is to distribute as quickly as possible, either by direct deposit or in the form of a check in the mail. More than $100 billion in emergency funding to hospitals and health care providers for, among other things, more personal protective equipment. $150 billion in direct assistance to state and local governments to respond to the coronavirus emergency. $377 billion in direct financial support for small businesses and nonprofit organizations through forgivable loans and emergency grants. Also, payroll expenses, in addition to commercial rent, mortgage and utility payments are made eligible for SBA loan forgiveness. Creation of a Treasury Department Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery to provide oversight of Treasury loans and a Pandemic Response Accountability Committee to protect taxpayer dollars. As Co-Chair of the Blue Dog Task Force on Fiscal Responsibility, McAdams pushed for this to be included to ensure proper oversight of taxpayer funds. Prohibits recipients of Treasury relief aid from using it for stock buy backs or executive bonuses or other compensation. McAdams said the House will review the bill today with the goal of passing it by voice vote Friday and sending it to the President's desk. He said more information and details will be available on his website: McAdams.house.gov ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=260,McAdams: Stop the partisan games and take swift action,2020-03-24,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams: Stop the partisan games and take swift action March 24, 2020 West Jordan, Utah Congressman McAdams said this urgent public health emergency demands that Republicans and Democrats come together now on a coronavirus health and economic relief measure. He said both the House and Senate should pass a bipartisan bill as soon as possible. Using a public health emergency to insert unrelated partisan provisions is wrong. Both parties and both chambers must put politics aside and put working families lives and livelihoodsfirst. Utahns want something done immediately and I call on my colleagues to reach bipartisan agreement. McAdams says his experience shows the seriousness of the health concerns for the country. I remain in the hospital on advice of doctors. They are monitoring my need for supplemental oxygen and have advised me that I still need to be here. I'm grateful to the medical providers for the excellent care I am receiving, and I appreciate all the good wishes and prayers people are sending to me and to my family. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=259,McAdams putting Utah priorities into federal emergency coronavirus measure,2020-03-23,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Jordan, UtahAs he recovers from COVID-19, Congressman Ben McAdams continues to represent Utah in the work to pass a third health and economic recovery bill in Congress. McAdams is in close communication with his D.C. and Utah staff, Congressional leaders and Utah stakeholders on the next relief measure. McAdams also strongly urged an end to the partisan debate that would unnecessarily delay bipartisan agreement. The coronavirus outbreak is a national public health and economic crisis. Partisan proposals will do nothing to contain the spread of this virus or deliver economic security to Utahns. With the lives and livelihoods of Utah's working families on the line,both parties must do everything possible to work together to reach bipartisan, bicameral agreement on policies going forward, said McAdams. He said he's pleased that one initiative he has championed the State Small Business Credit Initiativeis expected to be included in the House legislation. The initiative would leverage $10 billion in federal dollars to states to provide $100 billion in new financing to small businesses. It is structured to give states the flexibility to provide the financing efficiently and effectively and to meet local needs. McAdams' other priorities include: Modify the Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loan program, established under the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, by making the following changes: 1) authorize states rather than counties to be designated as disaster areas, 2) increase loan amounts, 3) reduce interest rates on loans, and 4) enact other changes to make program more effective and efficient to meet evolving needs of small businesses. Ensure state and local governments have the direct resources they need to respond and recover from the coronavirus emergency. Increase the availability and supply of personal protective equipment for front-line health care workers Expand telehealth capabilities by allowing doctors and practitioners in rural health clinics and federal-qualified community health centers to provide distant site telehealth visits to their patients under Medicare. Give access to working capital to businesses of all sizes through grants or loans as needed. This will help businesses cover monthly rent, payroll, and other liabilities, and, in turn, it would help to prevent mass layoffs. Provide financial institutions the ability to make good faith efforts to modify loan terms, including but not limited to fee waivers, payment dates, and deferrals without incurring penalties from regulators. McAdams also supports the appointment of an independent Inspector General to provide oversight on the money's distribution and compliance with all legal requirements. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=249,McAdams statement on COVID-19 illness,2020-03-18,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams statement on COVID-19 illness March 18, 2020 West Jordan, UtahCongressman Ben McAdams released the following statement about testing positive for the coronavirus and remaining isolated at home as a result: On Saturday evening, after returning from Washington, D.C., I developed mild cold-like symptoms. In consultation with my doctor on Sunday, I immediately isolated myself in my home. I have been conducting all meetings by telephone. My symptoms got worse and I developed a fever, a dry cough and labored breathing and I remained self-quarantined. On Tuesday, my doctor instructed me to get tested for COVID-19 and following his referral, I went to the local testing clinic for the test. Today I learned that I tested positive. I am still working for Utahns and pursuing efforts to get Utahns the resources they need as I continue doing my job from home until I know it is safe to end my self-quarantine. I'm doing my part as all Americans are doing to contain the spread of the virus and mitigate the coronavirus outbreak. I urge Utahns to take this seriously and follow the health recommendations we're getting from the CDC and other health experts so that we can recover from this public health threat. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=246,"McAdams votes to give families, communities federal help to respond to coronavirus outbreak",2020-03-13,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams said actions he proposed to aid Utah families and communities are included in bipartisan legislation that passed the U.S. House today. He voted for a targeted coronavirus response measure that establishes free COVID-19 testing, ensures workers receive paid sick leave, and provides important food access to children and families. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201) is a bipartisan agreement between Democrats and Republicans in the House and the White House. I was proud to be part of bringing the House and the Administration together to provide some answers for Utah families, communities and businesses who are trying to prepare for this rapidly-evolving COVID-19 threat, said McAdams. From additional support to nutrition programs for women, infants and children to emergency unemployment insurance grants to states, these are commonsense steps to shore up social programs and economic needs. I'm listening to state and local officials as they evaluate further assistance needs and staying in touch with stakeholders in the public health system to understand what best supports Utah's effective and efficient response to this public health crisis, said McAdams. McAdams said the bill includes $500 million to provide access to nutrition to low-income pregnant women or mothers with young children, and $250 million for more home-delivered and pre-packaged meals to low-income seniors. It also streamlines the process for schools to adapt their school lunch programs due to school closures. The legislation provides $1 billion in 2020 for emergency grants to states to assist with processing and paying unemployment benefits to laid-off workers and provides additional support for states hard-hit by the coronavirus outbreak. McAdams said in addition it allows all employees up to two weeks paid sick leave and ensures paid sick leave covers days when a child's school is closed due to a public health emergency or if an individual or a family member is quarantined or isolated during the emergency. It ensures that coronavirus tests are covered by private insurance and that all cost shares are waived under Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE and the Indian Health Service. The uninsured would also be able to be tested at no cost to them. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=244,SEC adopts McAdams and Hollingsworth proposal to cut red tape on promising start-ups,2020-03-12,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Legislation by Congressman Ben McAdams and Congressman Trey Hollingsworth (R-IN) giving commonsense regulatory relief for America's growing companies was essentially adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in a rule-making action. McAdams introduced the Fostering Innovation Act in 2019 as a narrow fix that allows small emerging growth companies to keep capital working to fund business needs, rather than expensive regulatory filings. This timely action by the SEC comes at a critical time for many growing companies, including those in the bioscience sector, to keep vital capital working in research and development, rather than costly regulatory requirements. America has long been a leader in scientific and medical innovation, and this move by the SEC helps ensure that will continue, said McAdams. Last Congress we passed a bipartisan bill to ensure smaller companies can invest in cures, not excessive compliance; I'm happy to see the SEC is carrying this forward and enabling American firms to continue leading the world in groundbreaking research, said Rep. Hollingsworth. The SEC adopted amendments to the accelerated filer and large accelerated filer definitions. This action tailors regulatory issues for these start-ups that had no revenues or low annual revenues in the most recent fiscal year. The amendments adopted by the SEC do not change key protections from the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The adopted SEC amendments take effect 30 days after publication in the Federal Register. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=243,McAdams calls for bipartisan actions on coronavirus response and economic recovery,2020-03-11,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams calls for bipartisan actions on coronavirus response and economic recovery March 11, 2020 Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams is urging members of Congress to unite around policies and actions that will protect public health and safety and mitigate economic impacts for Utah families and small businesses. McAdams voted for an $8 billion bipartisan emergency spending bill last week to deliver more tests and hospital equipment as well as $300 million to ensure access to an eventual vaccine. Members of Congress and the White House are now discussing ideas for economic stimulus to cushion the pocketbook effects of the outbreak. Being prepared and working together is how Utahns take on challenges. Utahns expect public officials at all levels of government to work together and help state health officials provide the best care and treatment for those who fall ill and to confront the COVID 19 threat, said McAdams. We should also develop economic measures that help steady the economy and enable working Americans to support their families. Neither party has a monopoly on good ideas and I'm looking for the steps that give us the most bang for our buck and the most effective response. McAdams is discussing a number of ideas with Utah stakeholders and others about how best to manage the economic fallout including: Tax relief for struggling families, workers and businesses Like the President, I believe targeted tax relief measures can play a role in ensuring families, workers and businesses can adapt and respond to economic strains resulting from the coronavirus. Policymakers should take an evidence-based approach to appropriately target tax measures to help individuals and businesses most at risk of economic disruptions. Enhanced support to small businessLow- or no-interest rate loans can help bridge the gap for small businesses negatively impacted by coronavirus, whether through disruptions in manufacturing and supply chains or through a temporary reduction in workforce from quarantined employees. Flexible unemployment insuranceUtahns unable to work due to illness or facing a reduction in hours due to coronavirus should not lose out on their paychecks. The unemployment insurance safety net should be flexible enough to respond to unique circumstances. Ensure student access to nutrition Millions of children rely upon federal programs to receive meals during the school day. Should schools close due to coronavirus, close cooperation will be needed among local, state and federal agencies to ensure that they will not go without food. Private sector responseThe federal government can't solve every problem. The private sector will play an important role in responding to the coronavirus. Employers are encouraged to provide flexibility to employees as the virus spreads throughout the country. Employers can offer teleworking opportunities where available and support their employees from any missed time at work. Financial institutions can also provide flexibility to customers in loan repayments for those adversely affected by the coronavirus. Consumer and investor protectionsCriminals continue to prey on consumers regardless of circumstances. Government must do its job to protect consumers from scams. This means ensuring companies are not price gouging patients for medical tests and treatments and ensuring fraudsters aren't lining their pockets at the expense of unsuspecting investors. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=240,McAdams calls on House Budget Committee to produce a budget,2020-03-05,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams and Congressman Ed Case (D-HI) led a letter to the House Budget Committee calling on the committee to produce an annual budget as a necessary first step towards reducing the federal deficit. McAdams and Case are co-chairs of the Blue Dog Task Force on Fiscal Responsibility & Government Reform. All members of the Blue Dog Coalition leadership, along with 10 other Blue Dog members, signed the letter. It is fiscally reckless for Congress to ignore the opportunity to reduce our skyrocketing budget deficitprojected to be $1 trillion this year, said McAdams. Both parties are responsible for the deep hole we've dug for ourselves and it's unacceptable to stay on this dangerous fiscal path. The letter notes that the budget provides an important framework for Congress to review the nation's fiscal state and lays out the necessary, tough decisions to put us on the path toward a balanced budget which investing in our future. Further, it states that Congress has not passed a broadly bipartisan budget resolution since the 1990s, when our nation was on the path to producing a budget surplus. We're not saying it will be easy, but it won't happen at all unless and until we have the bipartisan discussions that could provide important mechanisms to ensure fiscal discipline, said McAdams. The Blue Dog Coalition is comprised of fiscally responsible Democrats who are leading the way to find commonsense solutions. More is available on their website.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=234,McAdams bipartisan bill to fight Utah air pollution advances,2020-03-04,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams and Congressman Francis Rooney (R-FL) moved their air quality bill forward with a Science, Space and Technology subcommittee vote today. The Background Ozone Research Act (H.R. 4656) advanced in the Environment subcommittee with strong bipartisan support. The bill directs the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine to produce scientific findings about ozonea pollutant that is the primary component of smog. Ozone levels along the Wasatch Front often exceed federal standards, which are measurements meant to improve human health and environmental impact. Ground level ozone is a combination of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (emissions from vehicles, power plants, industrial processes, wildfire and other human-cause pollutants). According to the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, areas not currently in compliance with ozone standards in Northern Utah include parts of Weber and Tooele counties and all of Davis, Salt Lake and Utah counties. Rising ozone levels are dangerous to Utahns' health and caused an estimated 75 deaths in the Salt Lake Valley alone in 2017. Because the Wasatch Front's unique geography traps stagnant air, ozone literally burns our lungs, even at higher altitudes, said McAdams. There is much we don't understand about ozone pollution in Utah and why it's on the rise. This legislation will help us identify action we can take to clean Utah's air. McAdams' bill directs the top scientists to examine current trends of background ozone levels, including international sources, as well as how human-caused climate change may be affecting ozone. It also directs our nation's leading scientists, in coordination with the EPA, to provide public policy recommendations for steps to improve air quality. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=237,McAdams supports emergency spending for public health efforts against new virus COVID-19,2020-03-04,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams supports emergency spending for public health efforts against new virus COVID-19 March 4, 2020 Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams voted for a bipartisan $8.3 billion emergency spending bill that includes nearly $1 billion for state and local governments to identify, treat and protect communities from the health threats of COVID-19. The measure also provides more than $3 billion for research and development of vaccines and diagnostics, as well as more than $300 million to ensure access to affordable vaccines. Our local public health officials and medical providers are on the front lines in this fight. We need to support them to be ready to detect cases, isolate patients, trace contacts, provide quality care and prevent community transmission, said McAdams. With this bipartisan measure, I'm saying we've got your back. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=227,McAdams bill helps Utah fight invasive mussels threatening water systems,2020-03-02,2020,2020-03,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams and Congressman Scott Tipton (R-CO) have introduced a measure to support the fight against an invasive species infesting western lakes and reservoirs, threatening water quality, quantity, and recreational opportunities. The Stop the Spread of Invasive Mussels Act of 2019 is supported by the Western Governors Association, among others. Utah Governor Gary Herbert sent a letter of support for the measure, noting this is an important next step in the process. A bipartisan companion bill S. 2975has been introduced in the Senate by Senator Michael Bennett, Senator Jon Tester and Senator Steve Daines. Utah and other states have been fighting the spread of invasive quagga musselssmall, destructive mollusksfor years. They spread to uninfected waterways from contaminated boats and ballast tanks. Mussel infestations in water bodies within the Central Utah Project, which provides drinking water to the Wasatch Front, could cost tens of millions of dollars each year to control, threatening water quality and quantity. In Utah, we cherish the opportunity to enjoy boating, fishing and other family activities at our lakes and reservoirs and this destructive invader threatens that experience. It also threatens our considerable federal investment in water delivery systems that supply drinking water to hundreds of thousands of Utahns, said McAdams. Zebra and quagga mussels pose a huge threat to water systems in Colorado. While reservoirs in our state remain free of these nuisance species thanks to the diligent work of state inspectors, the number of mussel-infested boats and recreation equipment attempting to enter Colorado's waters is growing exponentially. This legislation will provide much needed resources up front to prevent catastrophic costs to our waterways and water delivery systems in the future. I'm glad to be a part of this bipartisan, bicameral effort, said Congressman Tipton. McAdams said much of the quagga mussel fight centers on areas such as Lake Powell within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, a recreation and conservation unit of the National Park Service. The legislation authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, through the Commissioner of Reclamation, to provide funds to purchase, operate or maintain watercraft inspection and decontamination stations to prevent the spread of the mussels. It also provides federal agencies such as the Army Corp of Engineers, the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation and others with the authority to inspect and decontaminate watercraft andif necessaryquarantine watercraft on federally-managed areas. It also creates opportunities for federal-state partnerships to accomplish prevention and containment goals. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=223,McAdams suicide prevention bill introduced in the Senate,2020-02-28,2020,2020-02,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams' and Congressman Anthony Gonzalez' (R-OH) bill Advancing Research to Prevent Suicide Act has been introduced in the Senate. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) are the bipartisan sponsors. The House passed McAdams' bill last month. The measure directs the National Science Foundation to fund competitive research grants across a range of disciplines with the goal of understanding why the rate of Americans dying by suicide is on the rise.We need to better understand the risk factors of someone dying by suicide so that we develop a better response to prevent this tragedy. Encouraging more fundamental research on the biological, social and cultural and environmental factors related to why suicide occurs is a critical step towards saving lives, said McAdams. Suicide is a growing epidemic in the United States, and it is vital that we take action to better understand mental illness and the root causes of suicide across the country, said Congressman Gonzalez. I am encouraged to see our legislation introduced in the Senate and I look forward to working with my colleagues to bring this important bill to the President's desk. The legislation introduced in the Senate as the House-passed bill doessupports the work of early career researchers working in fields relevant to understanding and preventing suicide. Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for young Texans and is on the rise nationally, said Sen. Cornyn. This legislation would help us understand the factors that contribute to someone making this decision and help identify how we can best support individuals in crisis. We must take action to confront the rising rate of suicide occurring across our nation, said Sen. Rosen. Countless families and communities in Nevada and throughout our country have experienced this tragedy. This bipartisan bill will help us better understand how to help those suffering. The Advancing Research to Prevent Suicide Act is supported by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the American Psychological Association. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal crisis or emotional distress, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) provides 24/7 confidential support.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=217,McAdams votes to give more time for states to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment,2020-02-13,2020,2020-02,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams today voted for a measure that would extend the time for states to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment to the Constitution. The ERA was originally adopted by a two-thirds vote of the House and the Senate in 1972, with a seven-year deadline for ratification. Thirty-five states ratified the ERA in the 1970s and three have done so in recent years, including Virginia, which adopted it in January 2020. Amending the U.S. Constitution requires approval from three-fourths of the states. I'm a dad of four, including twin teenagers a boy and a girl who all dream about the life they'll build for themselves. I want for them a world rich with opportunity where in no case is a door open to my sons but not my daughter. Utah's history is a legacy of strong, independent women leaders, shaped by our pioneer heritage to build prosperity in our western home. From Eliza R. snow and Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon, to Aileen Clyde and Olene Walker, Utah has been blessed by women's efforts to strengthen our communities. Today's vote won't finish the task of Constitutional equality, nor will it end discrimination on the basis of sex. It's an important piece of the conversation, with so much more work to do in areas like improving STEM and other educational opportunities for girls and equal pay for equal work. My vote today is to keep the conversation moving forward, said McAdams. McAdams said that Section 1 of the proposed amendment states: Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex. McAdams said ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment is supported by the American Association of University Women, the YWCA, the League of Women Voters of Utah, Utah State University, and the National Association of Women Business Owners, among others. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=214,McAdams backs measure to help lower insulin costs,2020-02-12,2020,2020-02,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams backs measure to help lower insulin costs February 12, 2020 Washington, D.C.Congressman Ben McAdams has signed onto legislation to encourage insulin manufacturers to lower their prices to 2006 levels and to guarantee insurance coverage with no deductible for those drug-makers who do so. The bipartisan Insulin Price Reduction Act (H.R. 4906) would result in the list price of the drug falling by more than 75 percent. It was introduced by Republican and Democratic members of the House Diabetes Caucus which includes McAdams. Insulin released by the drug companies in 1996 remains unchanged but its price has increased by 1,300 percent from $21 a vial to $300. Drug manufacturers must act responsibly to make this life-saving drug available to patients, said McAdams. McAdams said that according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as of 2015, 30 million Americans have diabetes a serious disease that can be managed through diet, exercise and the appropriate use of insulin to control blood sugar levels. Medical science successfully advanced from using animal-derived insulin to a synthesized version in 1982, allowing those with the disease to survive and lead normal lives. McAdams said that the Insulin Price Reduction Act would give insulin manufacturers who participate the incentive to have their drugs covered under Medicare and private insurance with no deductible. The legislation is supported by the American Diabetes Association and JDRF.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=200,McAdams suicide prevention bill passes the House,2020-01-27,2020,2020-01,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCCongressman Ben McAdams' bipartisan legislation to spur research on how to help stem the alarming rise in America's suicide rate through science-based answers, passed the House today. The Advancing Research to Prevent Suicide Act (H.R. 4704), introduced last fall with Congressman Anthony Gonzalez, (R-OH) passed by a vote of 385 to 8. The measure directs the National Science Foundation to fund competitive research grants across a range of disciplines, in response to an urgent call from mental health professionals, schools, and community leaders across the country who are working to support those in crisis. Every suicide is a tragic loss of life that affects families and communities, leaving them grieving. In Utah, it is the leading cause of death for young people ages 15-24. Better research is urgently needed to fill in the knowledge gaps and provide answers that will help save lives, said McAdams. McAdams spoke on the House floor before the vote. McAdams said that despite progress in mental health research, questions remain about the scientific understanding and basic knowledge of human genetic, behavioral, social, and environmental factors with potential relevance to suicide. According to the largest private funder of suicide prevention researchthe American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)90 percent of people who die by suicide have an underlyingand potentially treatablemental health condition. Both AFSP and the American Psychological Association have endorsed the bill. McAdams said this legislation directs the National Science Foundation to collaborate with the National Institutes of Health to award competitive grants to colleges and universities and nonprofit organizations to support fundamental research across a range of disciplines and to promote development of researchers who pursue this study as a career. The research includes, but is not limited to, the basic understanding of human social behavior. The National Science Foundation provides several million dollars annually for suicide research. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=190,McAdams honors Vietnam War veterans during pinning ceremony,2020-01-16,2020,2020-01,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Ben McAdams will honor and pay tribute to Utahns who served in the Vietnam War on Saturday morning, January 18th, in a pinning ceremony at the Columbus Center in South Salt Lake. Any Utahn on active duty, or a family member of an individual who was declared missing in action during the period of November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, is eligible to receive the Vietnam War 50th Commemorative lapel pin. The pin, also called the Welcome Home pin, was created by the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration. A proclamation designating May 28,2012 through Nov. 11, 2025 as a time to recognize Vietnam veterans and their service, was signed by President Obama. WHEN: Saturday, January 18, 2020, 10:30 a.m. WHO: Congressman Ben McAdams, Utah Vietnam War veterans WHAT: U.S. Vietnam War 50th Commemoration Pinning Ceremony honoring veterans of the Vietnam War for their heroic service. WHERE: Columbus Center, South Salt Lake, 2531 South 400 East, 84115 Background: According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, more than 9 million Americans served on active duty at some point during the conflict that began in 1955 and ended with U.S. Armed Forces leaving Vietnam in 1975. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates there are more than 6.3 million Vietnam veterans still living, including 44,957in Utah.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=159,McAdams votes against non-binding War Powers Resolution on Iran,2020-01-09,2020,2020-01,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams votes against non-binding War Powers Resolution on Iran January 9, 2020 Congressman Ben McAdams released the following statement today after voting against the War Powers Resolution on Iran: The drone strike ordered by President Trump that killed Qasem Soleimani delivered justice to a murderous terrorist who was responsible for the deaths of hundreds of American service members. While military force is always an option if necessary to protect American lives and the freedoms we enjoy, I support the President in his efforts to achieve our objectives in Iran through diplomatic efforts and economic sanctions and his recent intentions to de-escalate tensions and pursue alternative means of resolving this crisis. Iran must not gain a nuclear weapon and must cease sponsorship of terrorist activities. I refuse to play politics when the lives of American service members are on the line. I stand with our men and women in the armed forces and the American people ahead of any political party. The War Powers Act of 1973 already restricts the president's ability to engage in military conflict without Congressional authorization and protecting America and preserving peace are my priorities. I did not support the non-binding resolution because it sends the wrong message at a time when our troops are in harm's way and all sides appear to be stepping back from the prospect of war. At the same time, I firmly oppose any escalation of hostilities in the Middle East without a coherent and defined plan authorizing the use of military force. Congress, in consultation with the President, must fulfill its Constitutional duties to define our objectives and strategies prior to going to war as well as how to pay for it. I call on the Administration to be more transparent with the American people and with Congress and explain their plan to keep us safe going forward. I believe Congress must openly question and debate the strategy for broader engagement in the Middle East one that safeguards Americans and our allies. We cannot afford endless wars with poorly defined objectives and unrealistic expectations. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcadams.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=157,McAdams response to the Presidents speech following Iranian missile attacks in Iraq,2020-01-08,2020,2020-01,Democrat,House,UT,Ben McAdams,M001209,mcadams.house.gov,,,legacy,"McAdams response to the President's speech following Iranian missile attacks in Iraq January 8, 2020 Congressman Ben McAdams issued the following statement:I'm tremendously relieved and grateful that no lives were lost due to the Iranian missile attacks yesterday. Our military men and women have again demonstrated their skill and courage in the face of such a threat. I will continue to do everything possible to support them so they can successfully complete their assignment and return home safely to their families. I'm also encouraged that the Iranians now appear to be standing down' and that both sides can work to step back and take actions that lower tensions in the region. I agree with the President that Iran should not obtain nuclear weapons. That is a worthy goal that all parties should support, and I look forward to working with the President and my colleagues to pursue a comprehensive strategy, with buy-in from our allies, that reduces the threat of nuclear proliferation. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z