url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-reichert-call-on-defense-secretary-mattis-to-immediately-implement-inspector-generals-recommendations-to-comply-with-fbi-background-check-reporting-requirements-,"Kilmer, Reichert Call on Defense Secretary Mattis to Immediately Implement Inspector General’s Recommendations to Comply with FBI Background Check Reporting Requirements",2017-12-27,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.27.17 Kilmer, Reichert Call on Defense Secretary Mattis to Immediately Implement Inspector Generals Recommendations to Comply with FBI Background Check Reporting Requirements WASHINGTON, DC Following the report earlier this month from the Department of Defenses Inspector General showing that the Military Services did not consistently submit convicted offenders fingerprint cards and final disposition reports to the FBIs Next Generation Identification Database, Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Dave Reichert (R-WA) issued a letter asking Secretary of Defense James Mattis to immediately implement the OIGs recommendations to prevent future reporting lapses. The bipartisan pair also requested an outline of the DODs plan to correct previous reporting errors. The OIG found that the militarys failure to report convictions and to deliver fingerprints to the FBI was systemic. The OIG has conducted regular investigations identifying this issue since 1997. This most recent report found 601 of the 2502 fingerprint cards that the DOD was required to report on to the FBI were not submitted as required. That amounts to 24 percent. One of the unreported cases was the Air Forces court-martialing of Devin P. Kelley who was convicted on two counts equivalent to felonies in the civil system stemming from a domestic violence incident. Had the Air Force properly reported the conviction, Devin Kelley would have failed an FBI background check, possibly preventing him from purchasing the guns and body armor he used to murder churchgoers at the First Baptist Church in Southerland Springs, Texas in one of the nations deadliest mass shootings in history earlier this year. The Texas mass-shooting, like too many other acts of gun violence, was preventable, but the government failed to do the simple paperwork required to keep guns out of the hands of convicted criminals, Rep. Derek Kilmer said, Everyone I have talked to in our community wants to see guns kept out of the hands of dangerous convicted criminals. Background checks are useless if the databases designed to prevent convicted violent criminals from getting guns arent up to date. Secretary Mattis shouldnt waste another second to implement the Inspector Generals recommendations which could prevent future tragedies. Rep. Reichert said: As a former Sheriff and law enforcement officer for 33 years, I know how important it is to keep guns out of the hands of those who seek to do harm. It is why we should do all we can to make sure our federal background check system is strong and effective, including ensuring relevant information is in the system. I am proud to join with Rep. Kilmer to urge the Department of Defense to quickly improve their background check reporting practices and to request specific information on how they plan to ensure no individual slips through the cracks. The DOD OIG made several specific recommendations to address these deficiencies. For example, the OIG recommended that the Secretaries of the Army, Navy and Air Force ensure that all fingerprint cards and final disposition reports be promptly reported to the FBI. More broadly, the OIG recommended that the Secretaries of each of the militarys branches, as well as the Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence, and the Deputy Chief Management Officer immediately perform a comprehensive review of their criminal investigative databases and files to ensure all required fingerprint cards and final disposition reports for qualifying offenses at least to 1998 have been submitted to the FBI in compliance with the DOD and FBI requirements. Earlier this month, a bipartisan group of US Senators also called on the DOD to implement the Inspector Generals recommendations. According to Politico, US Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) said, ""The thing that is infuriating is this shooter, it was illegal for this shooter to have a firearm. The reason he had a firearm is the federal government screwed up."" In addition to complying with federal background check reporting requirements, Reps. Kilmer and Reichert supported a bill Rep. Kilmer co-introduced called the Veteran Urgent Access to Mental Healthcare Act, which would increase the mental health care options available to veterans with an other than honorable discharge. Last month, the House of Representatives passed the legislation. Under current law, service members separated from the military with an other than honorable discharge are not allowed to seek care at VA facilities, which bars many veterans in need of mental health care from receiving it. The OIGs report can be read in full here. The letter Kilmer and Reichert sent to Secretary Mattis is available in full here. ### Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smith-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-continuing-resolution,Smith Statement on House Passage of the Continuing Resolution,2017-12-22,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Adam Smith,S000510,adamsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Republicans just reneged on their responsibility to properly fund the federal government because they were too busy giving away a $1.5 trillion dollar tax cut to corporations and the wealthy. By falling back on another short-term continuing resolution, almost a quarter of year past the due date for proper appropriations bills, they have clearly demonstrated that they are not willing to do their job. Their lack of action will directly and negatively affect the people who reside in the Ninth Congressional District and across the country. House Republicans cannot continue to punt their responsibilities.We must do the job that we have been elected to do; particularly enacting a comprehensive budget that fairly funds important priorities, such as education, job growth, protection of the environment, and our national security.We also need to bring up the legislation necessary to ensure DREAMers can remain at home in this country, and not live in fear of their families being pulled apart. Inaction on these vital issues is unacceptable.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-smith-on-passage-of-hr-1,Statement from Congressman Smith on Passage of H.R. 1,2017-12-22,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Adam Smith,S000510,adamsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Republicans final tax bill affirmed my opposition to this dangerous proposal. Todays vote increased the deficit by a staggering $1.5 trillion, which overwhelmingly benefits the rich and corporations at a time when we are running historic deficits and wealth is concentrated at the top. This bill was so partisan and poorly constructed, and the process so lacking, that Senate parliamentary rules required provisions to be dropped at the last minute, which required the House to vote on the bill twice. This measure endangers Medicare and other mandatory programs, leaving them susceptible to drastic cuts that will hurt ordinary Americans. It will throw our health care system into chaos and even harms our environment by opening up the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge up for oil drilling. This bill set our government on an extremely irresponsible path and its negative effects will be felt by generations to come.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-introduces-bipartisan-resolution-honor-seattle-s-baseball-legend-edgar,Jayapal Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Honor Seattles Baseball Legend Edgar Martinez,2017-12-22,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, joined by 35 members of Congress including Representatives Nydia Velzquez (D-NY), Jenniffer Gonzlez-Coln (R-PR), Washington states Adam Smith (D-WA), Rick Larsen (D-WA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Denny Heck (D-WA) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) introduced a resolution honoring the Seattle Mariners' Edgar Martinez for his outstanding career as a professional baseball player and for his noteworthy humanitarian and philanthropic efforts. For all the ways that Edgar has given back to our Seattle community, as well as our global community, it is an honor to recognize him. He shows, in no uncertain terms, that commitment and compassionon and off the fieldcan change lives for the better, said Rep. Jayapal. From his fellowship program that benefits teachers and students to his funding of muscular dystrophy research, Edgar goes to bat for our community time and again. Thank you, Edgar, for all you do. As a member of our organization for more than 25 years, we know firsthand that Edgar is both a Hall of Fame person, and a Hall of Fame player, said Kevin Mather, Seattle Mariners President & Chief Executive Officer. We thank Congresswoman Jayapal for sponsoring House Resolution 672 honoring Edgar Martinez for his excellence as a player, and for his substantial philanthropic efforts to make the Northwest a better community for all. Time and again, Edgar has shown up for his team and his community. Not only is he a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest, but also a celebrated son of Puerto Rico. Edgars character and service makes us all proud. It is my honor to join my colleagues today in recognizing his great career and contributions, said Rep. Nydia Velzquez. Martinez represents the best of the game of Baseball through his extraordinary character, community involvement, positive contributions, both on and off the field. This Puerto Rican baseball player exemplifies discipline and determination, and in addition to being a source of pride for all Puerto Ricans, examples our youth because of his performance, effort and tenacity. Edgar deserves to be in the Hall of Fame and hopefully the voters will acknowledge that this year, said Rep. Gonzlez-Coln. In addition to Velzquez and Gonzlez-Coln, the bipartisan legislation is backed by Washington states entire Democratic House delegation. Edgar Martinez exemplifies the Pacific Northwest tradition of social responsibility and engagement in athletics. Martinez devoted countless hours and considerable funds to battle Muscular Dystrophy; he helped to create a more diverse pool of teachers in Washington state; and he selflessly contributed to the fundraising efforts for victims of Hurricane Sandy and other disasters. To me, Martinez is both an all-star on and off the field, said Rep. Smith. Edgar Martinez started his professional career in Bellingham. As Congress honors him for his abilities on the diamond and his citizenship, I am confident this is the year he cements his legacy with a trip to Cooperstown, said Rep. Rick Larsen. Edgar Martinez has been a leader not only in athletics but also in our community and hes well-deserving of recognition for all his hard work on and off the baseball field, Rep. DelBene said. So in honor of Edgar, its only fitting that Congress gets out the rye bread and mustard, its grand salami time. I was at Game 5 of the ALDS on October 8, 1995, when Edgar Martinez hit a double, sending Ken Griffey, Jr. to home plate. That moment, and other moments are embedded in every Mariner fans memory, and his Grand Slam career made watching baseball in the Pacific Northwest an absolute joy. One of the great injustices is that he has not been admitted to the Baseball Hall of Fame, but this resolution can serve to honor all that he has done both on and off the field for Washington state, said Rep. Denny Heck. Edgar Martinez is one of the best hitters to ever play the game. He helped revolutionize the game by defining the DH role. Hes helped make our community a great place on the field and off. Ill never forget The Double, which some have said saved baseball in Seattle, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. Congratulations Gar. Last month, the Seattle Mariners retired the number 11 jersey of former player and current coach Edgar Martinez, who has been a model of the American dream and the American spirit of giving back to the community. Edgar Martinez was raised in Dorado, Puerto Rico and attended Jose S. Alegria High School in Dorado. After a very successful baseball career, he created both the Martinez Fellowship Program, which aims to help close the achievement gap by improving teacher diversity and the retention of teachers of color in Washington State, and the Edgar Martinez Endowment for Muscular Dystrophy Research. He has supported multiple other humanitarian efforts in Puerto Rico as well as in Washington, New York City and Mexico. Jayapals resolution is co-sponsored by 35 members of Congress including Reps. Karen Bass (CA-37), Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL), Anthony Brown (MD-04), Cheri Bustos (IL-17), Tony Crdenas (CA-29), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Michael Doyle (PA-14), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwi ght Evans (PA-02), Jenniffer Gonzlez-Coln (PR-AL), Raul Grijalva (AZ-03), Denny Heck (WA-10), Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Dan Kildee (MI-05), Peter King (NY-02), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Grace Meng (NY-06), Stephanie Murphy (FL-07), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Linda Snchez (CA-38), John Sarbanes (MD-03), Adam Smith (WA-09), Darren Soto (FL-09), Nydia Velzquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), and Maxine Waters (CA-43). A copy of the resolution can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-congresss-decision-to-kick-the-can-on-long-term-spending-plan,Kilmer Statement on Congress’s Decision to Kick the Can on Long-term Spending Plan,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.21.17 Kilmer Statement on Congresss Decision to Kick the Can on Long-term Spending Plan I am disappointed that rather than using these last few weeks to do their jobs and produce a long-term, bipartisan spending plan, the majority of Congress has decided to once again kick the can down the road. I remain committed to working with the members of both parties to pass a long-term, bipartisan spending plan. Congress has punted from September to early-December, then to mid-December and now to January. No household would run their family finances three weeks at a time. No business would either. These manufactured crises are certainly no way to run the government either. Thats why I supported measures like No Budget No Pay, which would mean Congress wouldnt be paid if the government is shutdown. In January, Congress should get serious and pass a long-term, bipartisan deal. Thats overdue. Doing so would mean government agencies and the federal workforce has the assurances needed to make long-term plans, which saves taxpayer money, allows the military to maintain readiness, and prevents Americans from having the government services on which they rely held hostage by partisan politics. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2243,DelBene: Its Past Time Congress End Government Uncertainty,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) released the following statement after Congress passed yet another short-term continuing resolution to fund the federal government: Today, Congress passed another temporary funding bill, and once again kicked the can down the road, needlessly manufacturing another potential crisis early next year, DelBene said. As a former CEO, I know firsthand you cant efficiently run a business for just weeks or months at a time, and the same is true for the government. Its long past time for Republican leadership, who now control every branch of government, to put an end to this inefficient cycle and broken governance. Its ludicrous that we waste so much time punting on these funding bills and leave American families and businesses with uncertainty, rather than getting the job done and moving on to issues important to Americans long-term success, like housing, education, infrastructure, healthcare and innovative research. Congress needed to act by Dec. 22, after continuously kicking the can down the road instead of passing a budget and appropriations bills through regular order before the end of the fiscal year. The government is now funded through Jan. 19. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-bustos-commend-microsoft-eliminating-forced-arbitration-agreements-its,Jayapal & Bustos Commend Microsoft for Eliminating Forced Arbitration Agreements with Its Employees,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswomen Pramila Jayapal and Cheri Bustos commended Microsoft for announcing they would be eliminating forced arbitration agreements with employees who make sexual harassment claims. Earlier this month, Jayapal (D-WA) and Bustos (D-IL) were joined by Reps. Walter Jones (R-NC) and Elise Stefanik (R-NY), as well as Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), as they introduced the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Harassment Act of 2017 that would void forced arbitration agreements that prevent sexual harassment survivors from getting the justice they deserve. I am proud to see Microsoft proactively step up to the plate, show leadership on the issue of sexual harassment and eliminate mandatory arbitration agreements with their employees in cases of sexual harassment. I hope other companies who want to be leaders in creating safe workplaces for all employees will follow suit. Forced arbitration silences victims, limits opportunity, protects powerful men and breaks the leadership ladders that we work so hard to build. Sexual harassment has no regard to party or industryit affects all of us, everywhere, said Rep. Jayapal. Our legislation takes the first steps toward changing a deep-seated culture of sexism and silencing in the private sector. The bravery of the victims who have come forward cannot go unnoticed. For them, and for all people who experience harassment, we must act on this moment and end the forced arbitration process for good. Systemic sexual harassment can only exist in secrecy which is why I wrote legislation to stamp out this abusive behavior in the workplace, said Rep. Bustos. I want to commend Microsoft for leading by example and taking steps to ensure a safer workplace by exempting their workers from forced arbitration in sexual harassment cases. Our strategy to end sexual harassment in the workplace goes well beyond Washington D.C. and I want to thank Congresswoman Jayapal for helping lead this effort. I'm proud of the growing coalition of bipartisan legislators and business leaders who are standing up and saying no more to sexual harassment in the workplace. Today, an estimated 60 million Americans are subject to forced arbitration clauses. The bipartisan, bicameral bill that Jayapal, Bustos, Jones, Stefanik, Gillibrand and Graham announced would void forced arbitration agreements, and allow survivors of sexual harassment or discrimination to seek justice and discuss their cases publicly. Forced arbitration clauses prevent survivors of sexual harassment from discussing the nature or basis of their complaint. If an employees contract or employee handbook includes a forced arbitration clause, the employee is likely to have signed away his or her right to take the case to court whether or not they are aware of the clause. Employees are far more likely to win cases that go to trial than cases that go through this arbitration process. A copy of the bill text can be found here. You can watch the press conference where the bill was introduced and get additional background here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-statement-passage-gop-continuing-resolution,Jayapal Statement on Passage of the GOP Continuing Resolution,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to House passage of the continuing resolution that funds the government through January 19: Its shameful to see House Republicans skip town to enjoy the holidays after voting for the continued suffering of millions of young people and children. They have the majority, their votes overrule ours, and their choice today was cruel and immoral. House Republicans spent all their time focused on passing a tax scam that gives cuts to the wealthiest and no time working to pass a budget that addresses the priority programs on which middle class families rely. The GOP has shown they side with the biggest corporations and the wealthiest instead of the 9 million kids who need CHIP authorized, the 1.5 million Dreamers who need a Dream Act now, or the millions of people who will lose health insurance because of Republican-forced destabilization of the health care market. We need to fully re-authorize CHIP funding and pass the bipartisan Dream Act this bill does not do that. Republicans are kicking the can down the road for another month with this continuing resolution without addressing any of the real priorities. I voted no to this irresponsible governing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-statement-short-term-continuing-resolution,Larsen Statement on Short-Term Continuing Resolution,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today released the following statement after voting against the short-term 2018 Continuing Resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives: There is a Scrooge every holiday season and this year its Congressional Republicans. The best holiday gift Congress could give hardworking families is knowing their children will still have health insurance. However, Congressional Republicans chose to prioritize a greedy tax bill that favors corporations and the wealthiest Americans instead of the Children Healths Insurance Program (CHIP). It is inexcusable that Congress continues to delay reauthorizing of CHIP, which over 5,700 children in Washington states Second Congressional District depend on for comprehensive, high-quality health care. For years, the states Apple Health for Kids program has provided hardworking families in the Pacific Northwest with access to affordable health coverage to ensure that children can learn, grow and thrive. Washingtonians deserve a better deal. Congress needs to get serious and start working to reach a budget compromise that both sides can agree on, not continue to fund the government two weeks at a time while vital safety-net programs lay in wait for crucial resources. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-calls-for-oversight-hearing-on-amtrak-rail-safety-in-aftermath-of-recent-derailment-tragedy,"Cantwell Calls for Oversight Hearing on Amtrak, Rail Safety in Aftermath of Recent Derailment Tragedy",2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.21.17 Cantwell Calls for Oversight Hearing on Amtrak, Rail Safety in Aftermath of Recent Derailment Tragedy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) called on Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John Thune (R-SD) and Ranking Member Bill Nelson (D-FL) to hold an oversight hearing to examine a range of Amtrak safety concerns tragically brought to light earlier this week with the derailment of an Amtrak commuter train in DuPont, Washington. In her letter, Cantwell, a senior member of the Commerce Committee, wrote that Amtraks safety practices and training procedures, as well as Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) safety regulations, must be scrutinized immediately to protect the travelling public. In all, 91 people have lost their lives and 2,842 have been injured in derailments, collisions, and similar incidents since 2008, according to the FRA. A copy of the letter can be found below and here. The Honorable John Thune Chair U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation 512 Dirksen Senate Building Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Bill Nelson Ranking Member U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation 425 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson, I am writing to request that the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation hold an oversight hearing on current Amtrak safety standards and training procedures, and the state of federal rail safety regulation as soon as possible when Congress returns in the new year. Following the recent derailment incident in DuPont, Washington, which claimed 3 lives and injured more than 70 people, the traveling public needs to know that Amtrak and its regulator, the Federal Railroad Administration, are doing all they can to protect the safety of passengers who use this vital piece of our transportation infrastructure. In the last decade alone, train accidents in the United States have taken the lives of dozens of passengers. In 2008, a commuter train sped through a red signal and crashed headlong into a freight train in Chatsworth, California. In New York, a Metro North commuter train derailed in the Bronx in 2013, while another crashed along the Harlem line in February of 2015. Later in 2015, an Amtrak Northeast Regional train derailed in Philadelphia. These events took the lives of 46 people and injured more than 450. Heartbreaking events like these serve as all too frequent reminders that train safety must be a priority issue for our Committee. Passenger and freight railways remain a critical part of the nations transportation network. Millions of Americans depend on rail service each day, and businesses in every corner of our country depend on freight rail to keep commerce running. Therefore, the alarming rate of incidents on our rails is cause for tremendous concern. We should be doing everything in our power to address train safety issues as quickly as possible in order to prevent similar accidents in the future. Thank you for your consideration of this request. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sens-cantwell-murray-wyden-merkley-demand-dot-hold-railroads-accountable-for-ptc-implementation-after-fatal-derailments-safety-shortfalls,"Sens. Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, Merkley Demand DOT Hold Railroads Accountable for PTC Implementation after Fatal Derailments, Safety Shortfalls",2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.21.17 Sens. Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, Merkley Demand DOT Hold Railroads Accountable for PTC Implementation after Fatal Derailments, Safety Shortfalls WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) joined a group of fifteen total senators calling on Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao to hold railroads accountable for failing to implement sufficient safety measures. The Senators demanded a status report on railroads implementation of positive train control (PTC), a lifesaving technology required by Congressional mandate to be fully implemented by 2018. The Senators letter comes four days after the tragic Amtrak train derailment near DuPont, Washington, which resulted in three fatalities and injured many dozens more. This accident is the latest in a troubling trend of fatal train derailments and collisions. Since NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred, wrote the Senators. The PTC deadline is now almost one year away December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt. Senators Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, and Merkley were joined by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in the letter to Chao. The full text of the Senators letter to Chao is available for download here, and copied below. Dear Secretary Chao: On Monday, an Amtrak train derailed onto a busy interstate highway in DuPont, Washington. This tragedy reminds us of the urgent need to improve rail safety, including the nationwide implementation of positive train control (PTC) technology, as mandated by Congress. We write requesting an update on the status of railroads compliance with the pending deadline for implementation and your efforts to carry out other rail safety measures. The NTSB has been urging the adoption of PTC technology since 1970, soon after a collision in Darien, Connecticut killed four people. Following the 2008 Chatsworth, California crash that killed 25 people, Congress mandated that railroads implement the technology, which prevents trains from colliding and speeding. For years, however, the implementation of the technology has been delayed. Since NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred. The PTC deadline is now almost one year away December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt. Please provide information on the following questions: 1. Based on the reports and information provided to you by railroads, and your knowledge of efforts necessary to complete PTC implementation, what railroads do you anticipate will have fully implemented PTC by the end of 2018? 2. What railroads do you anticipate will fail to implement PTC by 2018? 3. What is your plan to impose fines and penalties for railroads that fail to comply with the law? 4. Can you confirm that you will be vigorous in enforcing the deadline, imposing strong fines and penalties, where necessary, on railroads that fail to meet the deadline? 5. How are you communicating your enforcement plans to the industry? 6. What steps are you taking to implement other provisions of law and safety requirements, such as requirements from the 2015 surface transportation bill, known as the FAST Act, that passenger and commuter railroads complete a speed-limit action plan (section 11406) to prevent over-speed accidents into curves and commuter railroads improve inspection practices (section 11409)? 7. What level of funding will be included in the Presidents yet-to-be-released infrastructure proposal to expedite PTC implementation and advance other rail safety efforts? 8. What steps is DOT taking to approve and expedite the use of federal funds and grants by recipients for the implementation of PTC? We appreciate your attention to this matter and urgent efforts to ensure railroads implement lifesaving PTC technology. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=1AA619D9-EFA2-41EA-AD23-CD01E476E4BF,"Sens. Murray, Cantwell, Wyden, Merkley Demand DOT Hold Railroads Accountable for PTC Implementation after Fatal Derailments, Safety Shortfalls",2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) joined a group of fifteen total senators calling on Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao to hold railroads accountable for failing to implement sufficient safety measures. The Senators demanded a status report on railroads implementation of positive train control (PTC), a lifesaving technology required by Congressional mandate to be fully implemented by 2018. The Senators letter comes four days after the tragic Amtrak train derailment near DuPont, Washington, which resulted in three fatalities and injured many dozens more. This accident is the latest in a troubling trend of fatal train derailments and collisions. Since NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred, wrote the Senators. The PTC deadline is now almost one year away December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt. Senators Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, and Merkley were joined by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in the letter to Chao. The full text of the Senators letter to Chao is available for download here, and copied below. Dear Secretary Chao: On Monday, an Amtrak train derailed onto a busy interstate highway in DuPont, Washington. This tragedy reminds us of the urgent need to improve rail safety, including the nationwide implementation of positive train control (PTC) technology, as mandated by Congress. We write requesting an update on the status of railroads compliance with the pending deadline for implementation and your efforts to carry out other rail safety measures. The NTSB has been urging the adoption of PTC technology since 1970, soon after a collision in Darien, Connecticut killed four people. Following the 2008 Chatsworth, California crash that killed 25 people, Congress mandated that railroads implement the technology, which prevents trains from colliding and speeding. For years, however, the implementation of the technology has been delayed. Since NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred. The PTC deadline is now almost one year away December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt. Please provide information on the following questions: 1. Based on the reports and information provided to you by railroads, and your knowledge of efforts necessary to complete PTC implementation, what railroads do you anticipate will have fully implemented PTC by the end of 2018? 2. What railroads do you anticipate will fail to implement PTC by 2018? 3. What is your plan to impose fines and penalties for railroads that fail to comply with the law? 4. Can you confirm that you will be vigorous in enforcing the deadline, imposing strong fines and penalties, where necessary, on railroads that fail to meet the deadline? 5. How are you communicating your enforcement plans to the industry? 6. What steps are you taking to implement other provisions of law and safety requirements, such as requirements from the 2015 surface transportation bill, known as the FAST Act, that passenger and commuter railroads complete a speed-limit action plan (section 11406) to prevent over-speed accidents into curves and commuter railroads improve inspection practices (section 11409)? 7. What level of funding will be included in the Presidents yet-to-be-released infrastructure proposal to expedite PTC implementation and advance other rail safety efforts? 8. What steps is DOT taking to approve and expedite the use of federal funds and grants by recipients for the implementation of PTC? We appreciate your attention to this matter and urgent efforts to ensure railroads implement lifesaving PTC technology.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=50A01077-D0A2-4DAC-ACC6-E4D6EC6FA68B,Senator Murray Votes No on Short-Term Spending Bill: Families Deserve Better,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"After spending most of year either trying to take families health care away, or jamming through tax cuts for the wealthy, Republicans punt spending bill into 2018 without addressing critical issues Senator Murray calls on Republicans to pass DREAM Act, permanently fund CHIP, community health center and special diabetes programs without any further delay in the new year (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after voting no on a short-term continuing resolution to punt a spending deal into mid-January. I voted no because I want to be crystal clear: families deserve better. The Republican-led Congress used the vast majority of the year trying to take away health care from millions of Americans and jamming through tax cuts for the rich, while leaving middle class priorities on the backburner. Now, Republicans are leaving people nationwide uncertain about everything from whether they can stay in the only country theyve ever known as home, to whether their children will have health care in a few months. This is no way to govern. Right now, nearly 800,000 young men and womens futures are in limboand they have already waited for far too long for Republican leadership to let us vote on a legislative fix for the DACA program and clean up this Trump-inflicted mess. Parents across the country are reading headlines about their childrens health care being cut off, and theyre desperately asking this Republican-controlled Congress to do the right thing. So are people who rely on community health centers and other sources of affordable primary care where funding is drying up because of inaction here in Washington, D.C. And I am deeply concerned about the impact severe, misguided cuts to public health and prevention included in this stopgap bill will have as we work to tackle crises like the opioid epidemic. This is no way to run the government and no way to treat people who are looking to Congress for solutions, not dysfunction and uncertainty, and I plan on doing everything I can to make sure this Republican-controlled Congress does its job for our young people and families without any further delay.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=6213B739-3505-483A-956D-BD7627A90D70,"VIDEO: Senator Murray Blasts Republicans for Putting Special Interests, Corporations Ahead of Middle Class Families in 2017",2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Working against popular opinion, Republicans ended the year without renewing critical funding for CHIP & CHC/THCs, permanent solution for DACA recipients were headed into 2018 ready to fight back harder than ever against the backward policies and even more backwards priorities this Republican-controlled Congress is forcing on families and communities ***WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAYS REMARKS HERE*** (Washington, D.C.) Joined by fellow Senate Democratic leaders at an end-of-year news conference, today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) criticized Senate Republicans for their lack of action before the end of the year on several legislative priorities that would provide critical support to middle class families in Washington state and nationwide, and highlighted a number of ways Republicans have hurt women, workers, retirees, and students by rolling back rules intended to put them firstchoosing instead to prioritize massive corporations and special interests. Republicans have wasted months failing to pass their disastrous Trumpcare bill and rushing to jam through their unpopular tax plan instead of taking up several policies aimed at helping working families, like renewing funding for community health center and special diabetes programs and the Childrens Health Insurance Program, or finding a permanent legislative fix for the Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals program, known as DACA. Additionally, Republicans undertook several actions over the last year that weaken protections for middle class families, including eliminating rules for worker safety, undermining womens access to reproductive health care, taking away retirement savings options, and undermining guardrails intended to ensure all children receive a quality education, no matter who they are or how much money their parents make. In her remarks, Senator Murray blasted Republicans for wasting the past year championing legislation that primarily benefits the wealthiest corporations and richest Americans, and refusing to work across the aisle to advance policies that would aid middle class families, saying this year, more than ever, Republicans have made clear exactly what it is they want to do: take from the very people President Trump said he would help and give to the wealthy and special interests. the massive burden theyve put on the middle class is wrongfor families and for our country as a whole, Senator Murray added. This isnt the direction we should be headed in. Watch video of Senator Murrays remarks HERE. Full text of Senator Murrays remarks, as prepared for delivery: Thank you, Senator Durbin. I have to sayat the beginning of this yearI held out some hope that President Trump was serious about what hed said over and over again the campaign trail, that he was going to put workers firstand fight for the middle class, and I hoped that maybejust maybeRepublicans in Congress would take those promises seriously tooand work with Democrats to make them a reality. But instead, as Senators Schumer and Durbin saidthis year, more than ever, Republicans have made clear exactly what it is they want to do: take from the very people President Trump said he would help and give to the wealthy and special interests. Now, thanks to the work of people across the country who stood up and fought back, Republicans havent always succeeded. But one way theyve jammed their damaging agenda through is by rolling back rule after rule designed to protect workers, retirees, students, and women. Instead of helping workers left behind in todays economy, Republicans made it easier for corporations to hide workplace dangers from workersputting their lives at risk. And they rolled back a rule simply designed to help make sure that everyonemen and womengets paid fairly on the job. Instead of dealing with the retirement crisis keeping workers up at nightRepublicans took away options to help them save for their retirement. Rather than simply leaving key protections in place designed to help all students get a high-quality public education, which really should not be controversial, Republicans acted to undermine those guardrails. And even though millions of men and women get affordable, quality care at Title X family planning clinics each, care that they otherwise might not be able to afford, Republicans bowed to extreme right-wing ideology and made it possible for states to discriminate against these providers when making funding decisions, a choice which could leave people who are most in need of care going without. This is a long, long list of damage done to the middle classto Democrats and Republicans and people from all across the countryand unfortunately I could keep going. With so many middle class workers and families are being hurt by these policies, its worth askingwho is getting help? Just like the in the Republican tax billthe answer is special interests, and those already at the top, massive corporations who care more about boosting profits than treating their workers fairly. And special interests who drown out women who cant access health care they need, and children who all deserve a quality public education. So this isnt a mystery. Its very clear who Republicans are putting first and who frankly isnt on their list at all. But the massive burden theyve put on the middle class is wrongfor families and for our country as a whole. This isnt the direction we should be headed in. Democrats know it. You better believe people across the country know it. And were headed into 2018 ready to fight back harder than ever against the backward policies and even more backwards priorities this Republican-controlled Congress is forcing on families and communities. Thank you and Ill turn it over to Senator Stabenow.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=D2132A42-53A8-4FA5-88FD-83C3F344603C,Senator Murray on DREAM Act: We will get this done. We have to get this done.,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In speech on Senate floor, Senator Murray implores Republican colleagues to follow through on promise to fix DACA, uphold commitment to find permanent solution for DACA recipients & Dreamers Senator Murray: Congress may not be able to change the Trump Administrations hateful rhetoric or short-sighted policies overnight, but we can and should pass the DREAM Act as soon as possible In earlier year-end news conference with Senate Democratic leaders, Senator Murray also blasts Republicans for leaving unfinished business on critical issues like DREAM Act, CHIP and CHCs that will impact hundreds of thousands in Washington state, nationwide LINK ICYMI: Sens. Murray, Cantwell, Democratic Women Senators to McConnell: Pass the DREAM Act Before Senate Recesses in December Spokesman-Review Editorial: Foot-dragging on DACA is cruel ***WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAYS FLOOR SPEECH HERE*** (Washington, D.C.) Today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) strongly urged her Republican colleagues to finally pass the DREAM Act and uphold Congress promise to find a permanent solution for hundreds of thousands of young people enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA. President Trump and Attorney General Sessions rescinded the program last September, impacting an estimated 800,000 young men and women, including nearly 17,000 in Washington state. In her speech, Senator Murray shared stories from young Washingtonians enrolled in DACA, underscoring the fear and confusion President Trumps reckless decision has posed on their lives, families, and futures, and stressed the urgent need to pass the DREAM Act to alleviate their uncertainty. Senator Murray also highlighted the moral and economic costs of not honoring the commitment made to young people who signed up for DACA, and underlined the immeasurable value recipients of DACA contribute to their communities in Washington state and nationwide. Excerpts from Senator Murrays floor speech: From health care to tax reform, theres no doubt that some days it feels impossible to get the majority of Republicans on-board with policies that truly help the families we represent. But there is one thing that unites not only a large, bipartisan contingent in Congress, but also the vast majority of the American people. And that is finding a path forward for the estimated 800,000 young men and women whose lives are right now in limbo. Eight hundred thousand peopleincluding nearly 17,000 men and women, boys and girls, from my home state of Washington who shared their information, paid a large fee, and upheld their end of the bargain, only to have President Trump rip the rug out from under them three months ago when he and Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the end of the DACA program. This Congress may not be able to change the Trump Administrations hateful rhetoric or short-sighted policies overnight, but we can and should pass the DREAM Act as soon as possible. And thats why we need more members of Congresson both sides of the aisleready to roll up their sleeves and get this done. Because every single day Republican leaders refuse to bring the DREAM Act to the floor to a vote, another 122 young people lose their DACA status, lose their ability to work legally, and lose their protection from deportation. That means 122 of our neighbors, students, coworkers and friends could be forced from the only country they know, despite the promise the federal government made to them when they signed up for DACA, and despite their immeasurable contributions to our schools and hospitals, our universities and stores, our farms and churches, our offices and so much more. Stop letting so many promising young men and women fall off the rolls of this program each and every day. Stop kicking this can down the road, and come together to do whats right for these young people. Ending the DACA program is not what our country is all about. It doesnt do anything to fix our broken immigration system, prepare for the future or grow our economy. Ending DACA wont heal the divisions weve seen in our communities, or make them any easier to fix. And ending the DACA program certainly doesnt reflect a country of opportunity or promisesomething the U.S. has always aspired to be. I urge my colleagues here in the Senate and over in the House: think about the communities you represent. Think about the young men and women who are currently studying for finals, caring for our sick, teaching our children, responding to natural disasters and opening businesses in the communities that you travel to and live in. Think about the young men and women who hope to serve in the military and defend your freedoms someday. Think of the Dreamers who have grown up in our countryand whose children are the future of our nation. Think about how much good we could do for these young men and women if my Republican friends brought the same commitment and zeal to this task as they did to their tax bill, and finally worked with Democrats to find a real solution to end this unnecessary uncertainty. I want to thank Paulas well the other advocates from Washington state who I met this morning in my officeand the many thousands of others who are showing up in every way that they can to make their voice heard and call on Congress to act. Dr. Martin Luther King once said that justice too long delayed is justice denied. And Dreamers arent asking for anything other than what weve promised to them. This is an incredibly difficult and uncertain time for so many. But Dreamers need to know, many of us in Congressand so many others across the countryhave your back. We will get this done. We have to get this done. Watch video of Senator Murrays floor speech HERE. Full text of Senator Murrays floor speech below: M. President, over the years there have been a lot of tough debates on this floor. From health care to tax reform, theres no doubt that some days it feels impossible to get the majority of Republicans on-board with policies that truly help the families we represent. But there is one thing that unites not only a large, bipartisan contingent in Congress, but also the vast majority of the American people and that is finding a path forward for the estimated 800,000 young men and women whose lives are right now in limbo. Eight hundred thousand peopleincluding nearly 17,000 men and women, boys and girls, from my home state of Washington who shared their information, paid a large fee, and upheld their end of the bargain only to have President Trump rip the rug out from under them three months ago when he and Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the end of the DACA program. M. President, this Congress may not be able to change the Trump Administrations hateful rhetoric or short-sighted policies overnight, but we can and should pass the DREAM Act as soon as possible and thats why we need more members of Congresson both sides of the aisleready to roll up their sleeves and get this done. Because every single day Republican leaders refuse to bring the DREAM Act to the floor to a vote, another 122 young people lose their DACA status, lose their ability to work legally, and lose their protection from deportation. That means 122 of our neighbors, students, coworkers and friends could be forced from the only country they know, despite the promise the federal government made to them when they signed up for DACA and despite their immeasurable contributions to our schools and hospitals, our universities and stores, our farms and churches, our offices and so much more. That means small and large businesses are forced to lay-off DACA recipients each dayvital employees that businesses have invested money to train and support, employees that help our economy and the small business in my home state grow. My friends on the other side of the aisle are constantly claiming they want to help small businesses grow. I listened to weeks of their speeches on this as they tried to justify their tax bill, but instead of a giveaway to the wealthiest one-percent, one way my friends across the aisle could actually help small businesses is to bring the DREAM Act up for a vote. Now, this morning I had the great honor of sitting down with Dreamers who traveled to our nations capital to fight for action. Young people who had no control over how they came to this country, but have made conscious choices to improve their own lives and make life better for their communities. They are passionatethey are frustratedand their stories need to be heard. Heres just one of them. Paul was brought to the U.S. at age seven to be reunited with his father. Paul excelled in school in Pasco, Washington not far from where my own father grew up. Paul and his parents worried that despite Pauls success in K-12, going to college and starting a career might be impossible, but DACA provided some stability. Paul went to Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, as a double major in political science and economics and now works in the state legislature. Now, with DACA in question, its not just Paul who isnt sure what comes next but also his younger brother, Jose. Josewho was two years old when he came to the U.S.grew up seeing what Paul was able to achieve his dreams. He saw that DACA allowed Paul to live without constant fear. Jose was ready to follow Pauls footsteps and enroll in the DACA program, so he could pursue his dream of an engineering degree at the University of Washington. Now if Congress doesnt act, we could have one less engineer in this country. M. President, Paul and Jose are great examples of Dreamers who work hard and aim high, and participate in their community and our economymaking our country a better place. This country should be rolling out the welcome mat to our Dreamers, not slamming the door shut on them. And thats why I am here, to echo their fear and frustration on the floor of the United States Senate and to call on Republican leaders to work with us. Stop letting so many promising young men and women fall off the rolls of this program each and every day. Stop kicking this can down the road, and come together to do whats right for these young people. Ending the DACA program is not what our country is all about. It doesnt do anything to fix our broken immigration system, prepare for the future or grow our economy. Ending DACA wont heal the divisions weve seen in our communities, or make them any easier to fix. And ending the DACA program certainly doesnt reflect a country of opportunity or promisesomething the U.S. has always aspired to be. I urge my colleagues here in the Senate and over in the House: think about the communities you represent. Think about the young men and women who are currently studying for finals, caring for our sick, teaching our children, responding to natural disasters and opening businesses in the communities that you travel to and live in. Think about the young men and women who hope to serve in the military and defend your freedoms someday. Think of the Dreamers who have grown up in our countryand whose children are the future of our nation. Think about how much good we could do for these young men and women if my Republican friends brought the same commitment and zeal to this task as they did to their tax bill, and finally worked with Democrats to find a real solution to end this unnecessary uncertainty. M. President, I want to thank Paulas well the other advocates from Washington state who I met this morning in my officeand the many thousands of others who are showing up in every way that they can to make their voice heard and call on Congress to act. Dr. Martin Luther King once said that justice too long delayed is justice denied. and Dreamers arent asking for anything other than what weve promised to them. This is an incredibly difficult and uncertain time for so many. But Dreamers need to know, many of us in Congressand so many others across the countryhave your back. We will get this done. We have to get this done. Thank you, I yield the floor.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-applauds-passage-750-million-grants-programs-assist-firefighters-and-emergency,Larsen Applauds Passage of $750 Million Grants Programs to Assist Firefighters and Emergency First Responders,2017-12-20,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Larsen Applauds Passage of $750 Million Grants Programs to Assist Firefighters and Emergency First Responders Dec 20, 2017 WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the United States Fire Administration, AFG, and SAFER Program Reauthorization Act of 2017 (H.R. 4661). The bill authorizes $750 million for both the Assistance to Firefights Grant (AFG) awards and Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) programs. These grant programs help provide training and equipment to firefighters and emergency first responders. In the past two years, nine local fire departments in Washingtons Second Congressional District have received funding under these programs. SAFER and AFG provide firefighters and emergency responders the tools needed to save lives in our community, said Larsen. I will continue to work for local first responders by supporting these programs and I thank all first responders and fire fighters for putting your own lives on the line every day for others. The bill passed the House of Representatives by voice vote yesterday. Larsen signed a letter of support for the AFG and SAFER Program Reauthorization Act earlier this month. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-and-representatives-kilmer-heck-announce-critical-investments-in-puget-sound-recovery,"Senators Cantwell, Murray and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery",2017-12-20,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.20.17 Senators Cantwell, Murray and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery (Washington, D.C.) Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts. Puget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts. Investments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy. All of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tribal efforts, are vital to Puget Sound recovery and help us honor our treaty obligations. As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I will continue to fight for a greater federal role for our nations largest estuary. One of the regions most vital natural resources, cleanup of Puget Sound is critical to the recovery of several Endangered Species Act-listed salmon species, the protection of tribal treaty rights, and to the environmental and economic future of Washington state. Among the efforts funded in whole or in part by the grant awards include: The restoration of an additional 5,000 acres of key Orca and salmon habitat; The re-opening of about 4,000 acres of shellfish beds in Puget Sound; and Improvement of biological condition from fair to good for at least 30 streams. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the grants will fund projects that meet the goals of both the National Estuary Program and the Puget Sound Action Agenda which is developed by the Puget Sound Partnership, the Washington state agency charged with leading the states collective efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound. The grants were awarded to Washingtons Department of Ecology, Department of Health, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Washington State Universitys Stormwater Center, the Puget Sound Partnership, and the University of Washingtons Puget Sound Institute. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Kilmer joined lawmakers earlier this year to restore funding for Puget Sound recovery and conservation after it was eliminated in President Trumps proposed budget. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=16762098-09D9-4203-9FEF-58280FA82BDF,Senator Murrays Statement on Passage of GOP Tax Cuts for the Rich: Its hard to overstate the cruelty of the Trump-Republican bill,2017-12-20,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), one of seven Senate Democrats named to the conference committee, released the following statement after Republicans jammed through tax cuts that benefit the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations on a party-line vote. From the very start, President Trump and Republicans shut out Democrats, nonpartisan experts, and the vast majority of Americans because they knew this legislation would never survive the light of day. The result of their closed-door negotiations is a terribly partisan bill that funnels even more money to those at the very top, at the expense of hardworking families and future generations. From the millions of Americans who will lose health coverage or see their premiums go up, to the middle class families who will see their tax bill increase in the coming years, to the pristine region of Alaska that will open to drilling, its hard to overstate the cruelty of the Trump-Republican bill. Its also hard to overstate the hypocrisy of so-called fiscal conservatives who apparently didnt think twice about blowing a massive hole in our deficit and endangering Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid--- all so they could dole out more tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy and the Trump family. While I am deeply disappointed President Trump and Republicans succeeded in jamming their destructive bill through without real hearings, true openness to amendments, bipartisan inputor allowing the Senator-elect from Alabama to cast a vote-- I am extremely proud of the millions of people from every corner of this country who made their voices heard and who did everything they could to highlight the gross inequities of the GOP tax bill. I want the American people to know this fight is not over. I urge everyone to join me in continuing to hold Republicans accountable for their votesand to work with Democrats to reverse the pieces of this legislation that so heavily tip the scales to the wealthiest in the country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=9AF80BA5-7889-4776-B43D-86BBD00A85DE,Senator Murray Statement on Republican Plans to Postpone Action on Alexander-Murray Health Bill Through End of Year,2017-12-20,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, issued the following statement on Republican plans to postpone action on the bipartisan Alexander-Murray bill through the end of the year. Republicans have just severely sabotaged families health care to give tax cuts to massive corporations and the wealthiest, and they are fully responsible for the premium increases and coverage loss that will come as a result. As I have made clear, the bipartisan bill I originally agreed on with Chairman Alexander will not make up for this latest round of Republican health care sabotage. In fact, there are changes that now need to be made to ensure it meets its intended goals of keeping premiums down and stabilizing markets. Republicans cannot undo the damage theyve caused to the health care system or to patients and families who will be paying more or losing coverage, but they can avoid doing further harmand I am hoping they are truly serious about working with us to get this done.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-votes-against-tax-bill-that-raises-middle-class-taxes-adds-trillions-to-debt,"Kilmer Votes Against Tax Bill That Raises Middle Class Taxes, Adds Trillions to Debt",2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.17 Kilmer Votes Against Tax Bill That Raises Middle Class Taxes, Adds Trillions to Debt WASHINGTON, DC Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) voted against the Republican tax plan. According to nonpartisan analyses, the final version of the bill would raise taxes on 86 million middle-class families and add more than $1.5 trillion to the debt. Of the tax cuts in the plan, 83 percent would go to the wealthiest 1 percent of the country. Todays vote is an enormous missed opportunity. Done right, tax reform could help grow our economy, give small businesses a boost, and make it easier for middle class families to get ahead, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. Instead, this bill raises taxes on 86 million middle-class families while giving 83 percent of the tax cuts to the wealthiest one percent and adding more than $1.5 trillion to the debt that our kids will have to pay off. From the start of the process, Kilmer offered to work with Republicans on a bipartisan plan. Earlier this year, he and members of the New Democrat Coalition met with Rep. Kevin Brady, the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, which drafts tax policy, and offered to work on bipartisan tax reform. The group offered an alternative tax plan that would have drawn bipartisan support. Kilmer outlined the plan in an op-ed in The News Tribune earlier this week. The final version of the bill, which would alter the nations economy for decades, was issued just four days before a vote. Critics of the bill raised concerns that special interests added last minute loopholes including a Real Estate Tax Break designed specifically to give massive tax breaks to wealthy real estate owners. Another loophole could actually end up sending more jobs overseas. Nonpartisan analyses demonstrate that the bill would add more than $1.5 Trillion to the national debt over the next decade. That would trigger automatic cuts to things that help everyday Americans from seniors to farmers. For example, next year alone Medicare, the health insurance program for elderly, would be cut by $25 Billion. According to Politico, nearly every federal program that helps farmers, would see funding evaporate. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office the tax bill would cause sweeping changes to healthcare, which would lead to a 10 percent increase in health care premiums and cause 13 million fewer Americans to purchase insurance. In addition, critics have raised concerns that the bill penalizes working people because it applies a higher tax rate to employee wages and salaries than to income earned by proprietors who do the exact same job. In a recent interview with The New York Times about this issue, Adam Looney, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a former Treasury Department official said Weve never had a tax system where wage earners are substantially penalized in this way. The bill also failed to address an issue that directly affects Washingtons tribal communities. Under the current tax code, tribal governments are not given equal access to the same tax incentives that states and local governments can use to spur economic growth. Rep. Kilmer and a group of 37 other lawmakers raised this issue earlier this month and called on the committee to include a provision to give parity to tribal governments in the final package. Despite Rep. Kilmers opposition and the disapproval of the majority of Americans, the bill passed. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2241,DelBene Opposes Massive Tax Giveaway to Corporate Special Interests at the Expense of Middle-Class Families,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01), who serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, opposed the Ryan-McConnell tax bill today on the House floor because it will increase taxes on millions of middle-class families. House Republicans still passed the bill without a single Democrat supporting the measure it now heads to the Senate for further action. In this Ryan-McConnell tax bill, Republicans have gifted the wealthiest corporations and individuals with massive new tax cuts and loopholes to take advantage of, DelBene said. Not a mother working two jobs to put food on the table, not a farmer struggling through a bad year, not a senior trying to pay for a prescription, have ever told me that tax reform means corporate cuts on the backs of them and their families. Republicans always promise that the benefits will trickle down to working people, but they never do and they never will. And whats worse, theyve made it clear cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are next. Instead of bringing Democrats and the public into the process, Republicans worked behind closed doors to take care of their corporate special interest allies, the wealthy and the well-connected, while putting middle-class Americans finances and healthcare on the chopping block. Video of her speaking on the House floor before the vote can be found HERE. The Republican bill would add at least $1.5 trillion to the deficit, paid for on the backs of workers, seniors and future generations. It would also result in 13 million Americans losing their healthcare coverage and will allow oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. During committee markup, DelBene offered amendments to protect middle-class families from tax hikes that would make housing and healthcare among other things more costly, but Republicans blocked them all. Her questioning on the unfairness of corporations being able to continue to use deductions eliminated for individuals under the plan went viral. The House Ways and Means Committee passed the Republican tax bill out of committee along party lines after just four days of markup and less than a week of having the bill text available to committee members and the public. The last time Congress passed a major tax overhaul in 1986, the committee underwent a year-long review of tax reform proposals, with 30 days of public hearings and a 26 day markup of legislative text. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2242,DelBene Leads Bipartisan Letter Urging $2 Billion Boost for NIH,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) led 129 House members in urging the House Appropriations Committee to fund the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at no less than $36 billion in any forthcoming appropriations legislation. The bipartisan letter was co-led by Reps. David McKinley (WV-01) and Peter King (NY-02). Funding helps push the boundaries of scientific knowledge, advance promising research and offer hope to millions of Americans suffering from heartbreaking diseases, the members wrote. If we are serious about breaking new ground in our understanding of complex and life-threatening conditions, then it is absolutely essential we increase funding for NIH. Simply put, we cannot hope to accelerate the development of new cures, therapies and vaccines without additional resources for research. Both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees have approved funding increases for NIH in fiscal year 2018. The House bill (H.R.3358) allocates $35.1 billion for NIH, while the Senate bill (S.1771) provides $36 billion for the agency a $2 billion increase above FY 2017 levels. Neither bill has received a vote on the House floor. Federal funding for NIH supports more than 400,000 American jobs and generates more than $60 billion in new economic activity. Unfortunately, the federal governments contributions toward basic research at NIH have consistently failed to keep pace with inflation, allowing the agencys purchasing power to diminish by nearly 20 percent since 2003. The letter is signed by 130 Republican and Democratic members of the House. Full text of the letter follows: Dear Chairman Frelinghuysen and Ranking Member Lowey: As the House works to craft an end of year spending bill for fiscal year 2018, we write to express our strong support for increasing funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In any forthcoming appropriations legislation for FY 2018, we urge you to work with your Senate colleagues to ensure NIH receives a funding level of no less than $36 billion, equal to the level approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee. The amount reflects the rising costs of medical research and would maintain Americas role as a global leader in biomedical research and groundbreaking medical discoveries. A bipartisan majority of the 115th Congress has already demonstrated its clear support for continuing investments in NIH. This funding helps push the boundaries of scientific knowledge, advance promising research and offer hope to millions of Americans suffering from heartbreaking diseases. Federal funding for this life-saving research is also a key economic driver for our nation, supporting more than 400,000 jobs and generating over $60 billion in new economic activity. It delivers a significant return on our investment today and for generations to come. Congress has increased NIH funding by $2 billion in each of the last two years and now is not the time to slow down. If we are serious about breaking new ground in our understanding of complex and life-threatening conditions, then it is absolutely essential we increase funding for NIH. Simply put, we cannot hope to accelerate the development of new cures, therapies and vaccines without additional resources for research. Particularly given the significant investments in NIH approved earlier this year by the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, we feel strongly that now is the time to recommit to Americas long-term health and prosperity. While we understand the difficult fiscal challenges you face, we hope you will again see the difference between an investment and a cost. NIH is without question an investment in not just medical innovation and economic growth but our nations future. We urge you to prioritize the important role NIH plays by funding the agency at a funding level of no less than $36 billion for FY 2018. Thank you for your consideration of this request, which will make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of Americans. Sincerely, # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-statement-passage-gop-tax-scam,Jayapal Statement on Passage of the GOP Tax Scam,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to House passage of the Republican tax bill that raises taxes on middle class families while giving tax breaks to large corporations and the wealthy: The GOP tax scam bill is an all-out war on any idea of opportunity in this country. Its a massive tax break for the ultra-wealthy on the backs of middle class families. Its outrageous that Republicans in the House voted to pass this love letter to their largest donors and corporations. Despite overwhelming opposition from the American people, this tax scam dismantles the Affordable Care Act, throwing 13 million people off their health care. It eliminates most of the State and Local Tax deduction, short-changing communities and resulting in as much as $152 billion in cuts to education funding over the next decade. It runs up the deficit anywhere from $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion, triggering cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. Despite what Republicans say, the fact of the matter is that 80 percent of all tax benefits in this bill go to the top one percent. With this heist, Republicans have branded themselves as the party of billionaires and giant corporationsthey are robbing the American people and showing zero remorse.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://larsen.house.gov/https%3A//larsen.house.gov/press-release/Writing-a-National-Security-Strategy-is-Good%3B-Acting-Strategically-is-Better,Larsen: Writing a National Security Strategy is Good; Acting Strategically is Better,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,,,legacy,,0,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-votes-against-republican-tax-conference-report,Larsen Votes Against Republican Tax Conference Report,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today released the following statement after voting against the Republican tax conference report. Once again, Congressional Republicans have put the interests of corporations and the wealthy ahead of what is best for hardworking American families. The latest partisan tax package will still drastically raise the deficit by $1.5 trillion, increase taxes on veterans and the middle-class, and deny vital comprehensive health coverage to over 39,000 Washingtonians in the district I represent. The Republican tax conference report is nothing more than a permanent tax break for the wealthiest Americans at the expense of the middle class. Analysis from the Tax Policy Center found that the top one percent of Americans would receive an estimated 62 percent of the bills proposed tax cuts- that is more than double the George W. Bush-era tax cuts. In Washington state, the richest one percent will receive an average $7,750 tax cut under the GOP tax bill, while lower income Washingtonians face tax hikes according to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. I stand with my constituents who have called, sent letters, attended community coffees or otherwise made their voices heard about the harm this Republican tax bill would cause. Like the U.S. military retiree in Oak Harbor, who worries about how the GOP tax scam jeopardizes the retirement they have worked a lifetime for by raiding Medicare funds; the couple in Lynnwood who is concerned about the impact of the reduced mortgage interest and SALT deductions on their property value under the new bill and; the low- and middle income families throughout Washington states Second District who will struggle to make ends meet once the bills temporary, modest tax cuts end, said Larsen. Real bipartisan tax reform should simplify the tax code, support middle-class families and veterans, strongly invest in infrastructure, foster more well-paying jobs, and ensure access to affordable, high-quality health care. I voted against this GOP tax scam and will continue to push for a better deal to benefit all Americans. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cantwell-statement-on-banking-committees-rejection-of-ex-im-bank-nominee-scott-garrett,Senator Cantwell Statement on Banking Committee’s Rejection of Ex-Im Bank Nominee Scott Garrett,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.17 Senator Cantwell Statement on Banking Committees Rejection of Ex-Im Bank Nominee Scott Garrett WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement in response to the U.S. Senate Banking Committees 13-10 vote to reject Scott Garretts nomination to chair the Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im). As a Congressman, Garrett favored dismantling the bank. ""I applaud the Senate Banking Committees decision to reject Mr. Garretts nomination. If we want to create jobs across America, we need a fully functioning Export-Import Bank approving these deals from manufacturers that are ready to close sales and hire workers, said Senator Cantwell. The president needs to send us a qualified nominee who wants to see the bank succeed."" As one of the most trade dependent state in the nation, the Ex-Im Bank is vital to Washington states economy. Since Ex-Im was reauthorized in December 2016, six transactions worth $2.6 billion whose primary exporter is from Washington State have been stalled. Senator Cantwell has long fought for a full functioning and permanently reauthorized Export-Import Bank to ensure American companies can compete on a level playing field with global competitors. She pressed for board members to be nominated and confirmed to the banks board last year. In December of 2015, the Ex-Im Bank received a 4-year reauthorization thanks in part to Cantwells advocacy. Later that year, a coalition of Democrats secured an agreement from Majority Leader McConnell to hold a vote to reauthorize Ex-Im, which resulted in an overwhelming majority of support. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=EBB456E0-0DCB-42BB-8AA1-C75A018EB7FE,Senator Murray Statement on Banking Committee Rejecting Export-Import Bank Nominee Scott Garrett,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after the Senate Banking Committee, comprised of 12 Republicans and 11 Democrats, voted 13-10 to reject President Trumps nominee to lead the Export-Import Bank, Scott Garrett. The Export-Import Bank is critical to the economy in my home state of Washington, and it deserves someone at the helm who believes in our workers and in U.S. manufacturing. Unfortunately, throughout the course of his nomination process, Scott Garrett failed to convince me that he was committed to the mission of the Ex-Im Bank or that he had abandoned his repugnant, anti-LGBTQ statements, so I applaud my colleagues on the Senate Banking Committee for rejecting his nomination. I would hope Republican leadership will not defy this Committee and attempt to advance this nomination any further. It is also now crucial for the full Senate to confirm the other five nominees to ensure Ex-Im can be a fully-functioning agency. For more on Sen. Murrays meeting with Mr. Garrett, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-amtrak-train-501-derailment-,Kilmer Statement on Amtrak Train 501 Derailment,2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.17 Kilmer Statement on Amtrak Train 501 Derailment WASHINGTON, DC Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) issued the following statement regarding the derailment of Amtrak train 501 in Pierce County: I pray for the safety of those affected by the derailment of Amtrak train 501 near Dupont including passengers, commuters and first responders, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. I stand ready to work with Amtrak and state and federal officials as they manage the response to this incident and will continue monitoring this situation closely. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/senators-murray-cantwell-and-representatives-kilmer-heck-announce-critical-investments-in-puget-sound-recovery,"Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery",2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.17 Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery (Washington, D.C.) Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts. Puget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts. Investments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy. All of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tribal efforts, are vital to Puget Sound recovery and help us honor our treaty obligations. As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I will continue to fight for a greater federal role for our nations largest estuary. One of the regions most vital natural resources, cleanup of Puget Sound is critical to the recovery of several Endangered Species Act-listed salmon species, the protection of tribal treaty rights, and to the environmental and economic future of Washington state. Among the efforts funded in whole or in part by the grant awards include: The restoration of an additional 5,000 acres of key Orca and salmon habitat; The re-opening of about 4,000 acres of shellfish beds in Puget Sound; and Improvement of biological condition from fair to good for at least 30 streams. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the grants will fund projects that meet the goals of both the National Estuary Program and the Puget Sound Action Agenda which is developed by the Puget Sound Partnership, the Washington state agency charged with leading the states collective efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound. The grants were awarded to Washingtons Department of Ecology, Department of Health, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Washington State Universitys Stormwater Center, the Puget Sound Partnership, and the University of Washingtons Puget Sound Institute. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Kilmer joined lawmakers earlier this year to restore funding for Puget Sound recovery and conservation after it was eliminated in President Trumps proposed budget. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/amtrak-train-that-crashed-was-on-first-run,Amtrak train that crashed was on first run,2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"A high-speed Amtrak train that derailed in Washington stateon Mondaymorning was embarking on its inaugural run, raising questions about whether the passenger railroad was properly equipped to handle the new service. The horrific crash, which left multiple people dead and injured, brought to life a chilling concernvoicedby Lakewood Mayor Don Anderson earlier this month: The new route could wind up killing someone. Something went very, very wrong, Rep.Denny Heck(D-Wash.), who represents the district where the crash occurred, saidMonday. There are some questions we will demand to be answered. An Amtrak train carrying 78 passengers was traveling across ahighway overpass in DuPont, Wash., and entering into a curve when it derailed, causing two rail cars to fall onto the highway below and leaving another dangling in the air. Its unclear what caused the crash or how fast the train was going. The train waspart of a brand new Cascades high-speed rail service program that Amtrak launchedMondaymorning betweenSeattle and Portland. The train can travel up to a maximum speed of 79 mph and the cars are supposed to be equipped with a special technology that uses gravity to allow it to tilt through curves while it maintains speed. The additional trips make the service more convenient and accessible for all travelers and allow more options for day trips along the corridor, Amtrak says on its website. But Washington state officials have long been raising various safety concerns about the new high-speed route, including a warning that it could be especially dangerous for trains to travel that fast when they head into a curve. Amtrak did not immediately return a request for comment about when and how many test-runs were performed on the tracks prior toMonday, and whether there were any extra precautions taken to ensure that the new service ran smoothly on its first day. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has sent a team of investigators to the scene, where they will be exploring whether mechanical or human errors were to blame. Transportation experts say the NTSB will likely be looking at whether the tracks were properly equipped to handle the speed, how many practice runs were conducted, how fast the train was going, what the speed limit was, whether the brakes were applied and if there was proper signaling. Some of those questions could be easily discerned from the trains event recorder. But stickier questions like whether Amtrak did enough to prepare its tracks and train engineers for the new high-speed service may take much longer to answer. Theyre gonna go back and look very carefully at the work that was done upgrading the rails to allow for this 79-miles-per-hour speed, Peter Goelz, a former NTSBmanaging director, told CNN. You need to make sure that the rails have been checked, that the rail bed has been checked, that the ties have been correct. We want to make sure that all the resources that should have been there were put in place, he added. Amtrak's president and co-CEO Richard Andersonreportedly saidon a conference call thatPositive Train Control (PTC), a technology that will eventually be required by law and that can automatically slow down a train that is going over the speed limit,was not activated along thecrash route. Safety advocates have criticized how slow railroads have been in implementing the costly and potentially life-saving technology. Amtrak has 67 percent of its route miles in PTC operation as of the second quarter of this year the latest data available. Congress originally gave commuter and freight railroads until the end of 2015 to install the technology, which can prevent derailments, collisions and improper track switching. But as railroads struggled to meet compliance deadlines, lawmakers pushed back the PTC implementation date to at least Dec. 31, 2018. We dont know that it could have saved lives, but its a disappointment to me that we arent farther along in the implementation of installing PTC onto trains throughout America, not just in my district, Heck said. Amtrak, which is under new leadership, has long had to fight for adequate resources on Capitol Hill.President Trumps proposed 2018 budget would slash funding for Amtraks long-distance routes, while some Republicans have sought to entirelyeliminateAmtraks $1.1 billion in federal subsidies. But Trumpseizedon the Amtrak derailment to pushfor his forthcoming plan to rebuild crumbling U.S. infrastructure. The train accident that just occurred in DuPont, WA shows more than ever why our soon to be submitted infrastructure plan must be approved quickly,Trump tweetedMonday, hours after the crash.Seven trillion dollars spent in the Middle East while our roads, bridges, tunnels, railways (and more) crumble! Not for long! The Washington State Department of Transportation said it used $800 million in federal funds from the Obama administrations American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to upgrade the route for high-speed rail service.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senators-murray-cantwell-and-representatives-kilmer-heck-announce,"Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery",2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts. Puget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts. Investments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy. All of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tribal efforts, are vital to Puget Sound recovery and help us honor our treaty obligations. As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I will continue to fight for a greater federal role for our nations largest estuary. One of the regions most vital natural resources, cleanup of Puget Sound is critical to the recovery of several Endangered Species Act-listed salmon species, the protection of tribal treaty rights, and to the environmental and economic future of Washington state. Among the efforts funded in whole or in part by the grant awards include: The restoration of an additional 5,000 acres of key Orca and salmon habitat; The re-opening of about 4,000 acres of shellfish beds in Puget Sound; and Improvement of biological condition from fair to good for at least 30 streams. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the grants will fund projects that meet the goals of both the National Estuary Program and the Puget Sound Action Agenda which is developed by the Puget Sound Partnership, the Washington state agency charged with leading the states collective efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound. The grants were awarded to Washingtons Department of Ecology, Department of Health, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Washington State Universitys Stormwater Center, the Puget Sound Partnership, and the University of Washingtons Puget Sound Institute. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Kilmer joined lawmakers earlier this year to restore funding for Puget Sound recovery and conservation after it was eliminated in President Trumps proposed budget.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-denny-heck-on-derailment-of-amtrak-cascades,"Statement from Congressman Denny Heck on derailment of Amtrak Cascades 501 near DuPont, Washington",2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Following the news of the derailment of the Amtrak Cascades 501 train traveling from Seattle to Portland, Representative Denny Heck (WA-10) issued the following statement: The images emerging from this terrible accident are painful and distressing. My heart goes out to all of the families affected and we continue to keep them in our prayers in hopes that their loved ones will be okay. We know this train was the first southbound Amtrak Cascades departure from Seattle to use the new Point Defiance Bypass route through south Tacoma, Lakewood, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be conducting a thorough investigation to find out what went wrong. Even in the face of this devastating situation, our first responders and community put aside their grief and stepped up to help. I thank the professionals reporting to the scene, the community members donating blood, volunteers assisting victims families, and all of those around the country sending prayers. Individuals looking for information about their loved ones on Amtrak Cascades 501 can call 800-523-9101.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-statement-amtrak-cascades-501-derailment,Jayapal Statement on Amtrak Cascades 501 Derailment,2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to the Amtrak Cascades 501 derailment near DuPont, Washington. ""The news of the devastating train derailment outside of Dupont this morning is horrifying. My heart goes out to the victims, their friends and family, and everyone impacted by this tragedy. The results of the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board will be critical in making sense of this deadly accident. We must ensure that the board and the local authorities have all the resources needed for thorough review and recovery efforts. I am deeply grateful for our first responders on the ground, and I will continue to closely monitor the situation as it develops. I urge anyone with friends and family who may be impacted by this tragedy to contact Amtrak immediately. Individuals with friends and family on Amtrak Cascades 501 are encouraged to call 1-800-523-9101.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-amtrak-train-derailment,Cantwell Statement on Amtrak Train Derailment,2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.17 Cantwell Statement on Amtrak Train Derailment WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement on the Amtrak train derailment near Olympia, Washington. My heart breaks for all those affected by todays derailment. We owe so much to the first responders who responded quickly to protect the public and save lives. I have spoken with Governor Inslee, the National Transportation Safety Board, Amtrak leadership, and others, and continue to get information on the derailment. We need to let the investigators on the ground do their job, and we should pay close attention to their recommendations to ensure that this type of tragedy will not be repeated. Until then, I will work with Senator Murray and the congressional delegation to ensure federal resources are available as needed. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=27E9000B-379F-49CB-832C-E7CA1FE0A8E5,Senator Murray Statement on Deadly Train Derailment Near Olympia,2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement. This is a tough day for our stateand my heart goes out to the families who lost a loved one today, to the many more who were injured in this mornings derailment, and to all of those who remain uncertain and concerned about the full scope of the tragedy. I am reaching out to officials on the ground, and making it clear that I am ready to help in any way possible at the federal level. In the coming hours, days, and weeks, investigators will be looking into what caused this terrible tragedy and provide the answers to the many outstanding questions we all have about what happened and why. I want to extend my sincere gratitude for the many first responders who rushed to the scene and worked to help others in their time of need.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=AF8810F9-BBFC-4119-86CB-E93AC167DF6D,"Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery",2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"EPA awards more than $25M to support Puget Sound cleanup and protection efforts Lawmakers push back against Trump Administrations efforts to eliminate funding for Puget Sound restoration (Washington, D.C.) Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts. Puget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts. Investments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy. All of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tribal efforts, are vital to Puget Sound recovery and help us honor our treaty obligations. As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I will continue to fight for a greater federal role for our nations largest estuary. One of the regions most vital natural resources, cleanup of Puget Sound is critical to the recovery of several Endangered Species Act-listed salmon species, the protection of tribal treaty rights, and to the environmental and economic future of Washington state. Among the efforts funded in whole or in part by the grant awards include: The restoration of an additional 5,000 acres of key Orca and salmon habitat; The re-opening of about 4,000 acres of shellfish beds in Puget Sound; and Improvement of biological condition from fair to good for at least 30 streams. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the grants will fund projects that meet the goals of both the National Estuary Program and the Puget Sound Action Agenda which is developed by the Puget Sound Partnership, the Washington state agency charged with leading the states collective efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound. The grants were awarded to Washingtons Department of Ecology, Department of Health, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Washington State Universitys Stormwater Center, the Puget Sound Partnership, and the University of Washingtons Puget Sound Institute. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Kilmer joined lawmakers earlier this year to restore funding for Puget Sound recovery and conservation after it was eliminated in President Trumps proposed budget.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/ballard-locks-federal-infrastructure-deserve-more-funding,"Ballard Locks, federal infrastructure, deserve more funding",2017-12-17,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington lawmakers are right to press President Donald Trumps administration to fund much needed maintenance and upgrades at the Ballard Locks in Seattle. In aletter sent Friday, a coalition of representatives urged Trump and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to fund the locks improvements in their 2018 and 2019 budgets. This work is needed to ensure that the Lake Washington Ship Canals linkage to Puget Sound continues to operate safely and reliably. The locks are among numerous public facilities built over the last century to enable industrial activity and the rise of cities in the West. Many suffer from a backlog of maintenance, along with much of the nations infrastructure. This is another element of frustration with Trump. He promised massive infrastructure spending, which would have received bipartisan support. Yet instead hes pursuing divisive tax reforms that will put the nation deeper in debt and affect its ability to fund essential services and facilities. Lacking a comprehensive infrastructure plan, places like the Puget Sound region must continually fight for dollops of funding to patch what they can. The Ballard Locks are a strong candidate. Muchmore than a tourist destination, the century-old locks are the nations busiest and support maritime industries generating more than $1.2 billion in annual sales. The facility provides the only access from Puget Sound for 50 businesses on the freshwater side that employ about 3,000 people, according to a study released last summer. Yet the locks need $30 million to $60 million worth of work. Fridays letter notes that federal reviews deemed lock upgrades high urgency and found many of its components are in poor or failing condition. It specifically asks for $12 million to replace the original filling culvert valves with a more reliable hydraulic system that should also be safer for juvenile salmon. The letter was sent by Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, along with U.S. Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck and Derek Kilmer. Since budget earmarks are no longer allowed, such letters are used to highlight spending priorities. These lawmakers advocacy is appreciated especially that of Senate Appropriations Committee member Murray. They should be sure to work with the rest of the state delegation to seek funding for the locks and other critical infrastructure and waterways in Washington that are maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers. It would especially help to add the voices of U.S. Reps. Dan Newhouse, R-Sunnyside, and Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Camas. They serve on the House appropriations energy and water subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over the Army Corps civil works. Help from Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Spokane, would also be welcome. While these infrastructure projects are regional, the economic activity and diversity of employment opportunities they create benefit the entire state.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-herrera-beutler-kilmer-introduce-legislation-to-extend-vital-protection-of-fishing-boats-small-vessels-from-overly-broad-discharge-rule,"Reps. Herrera Beutler, Kilmer Introduce Legislation to Extend Vital Protection of Fishing Boats, Small Vessels from Overly-Broad Discharge Rule",2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.17 Reps. Herrera Beutler, Kilmer Introduce Legislation to Extend Vital Protection of Fishing Boats, Small Vessels from Overly-Broad Discharge Rule WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) introduced legislation yesterday to extend an exemption for fishing boats and small vessels from EPA incidental discharge regulations so they can continue to operate without facing financial costs and delays. Their bill, Fishing and Small Vessel Relief Act, extends the current exemption by three years, relieving small boats under 79 feet from EPAs vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements.This protection has long-standing bipartisan support, andSen. Maria Cantwell has introduced a companion bill in the U.S. Senate. Science has shown that incidental discharge from small fishing boats and other undersized vessels those under 79 feet do not present significant environmental risks.These boats have been given an exemption from EPA-mandated vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements. Unfortunately, that exemption is set to expire on December 18, which would leave fishermen and small vessels at sudden risk of being in violation of a federal rule from which they've long been exempted. Fishermen, shellfish growers and small vessel operators are key economic contributors to our Pacific County communities; theirlivelihoodsrepresent thousands of paychecks, Herrera Beutler said. These requirements were only ever meant for larger vessels, but if Congress doesn't act soon, the small boats will take a serious hit. I'm hopeful this bipartisan solution will be included in any end-of-year legislation to give our fishing businesses relief and certainty. This is a commonsense solution to shield our small business owners from a regulation that was not intended to target them, Kilmer said. Congress should act now to fix the problem so that our fishermen and shellfish growers have the certainty they need to keep their operations afloat. Their bill would provide continued relief to all vessels under 79 feet including commercial fishing boats, tugboats, tour boats, research boats, towboats, and offshore supply boats. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/wa-lawmakers-urge-federal-funding-for-critical-upgrades-to-ballard-locks_,WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.17 WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair. In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. The full text of the letter is below and here. The Honorable Ryan A. Fisher Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) U.S. Department of the Army 108 Army Pentagon Washington, D.C. 20310-0108 The Honorable Mick Mulvaney Director Office of Management and Budget 725 17th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20503 Dear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: We write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region. The Army Corps initiated planning for the ship canal and locks to connect the fresh water of Lake Union, Lake Washington, and Salmon Bay to the salt water of Puget Sound in the late 1890s following initial authorization in the River and Harbor Act of 1890. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the Lake Washington Ship Canal with a double lock was authorized in the River and Harbor Act of 1910. Construction began in 1911 and the locks were formally opened for vessel traffic on July 4, 1917. This project consists of a 30-foot ship canal, large and small navigation lock, dam, spillway with six gates, fish ladder, visitor center, and Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens. The Ballard Locks allow commercial and recreational vessels to travel to the docks, shipyards, warehouses, maintenance and repair facilities, and marinas in the regions fresh water lakes while reducing maintenance costs and prolonging vessel life in the fresh water environment. The importance of the locks to the maritime industry is underscored by their annual usage. Each year, the Ballard Locks support approximately 45,000 vessel transits and 14,000 lockage counts, making them the busiest lock in the United States in overall vessel traffic. For commercial vessel transits only, the Ballard Locks are the twelfth busiest in the nation. The locks provide critical public safety and environmental functions. It maintains the water level of Lake Washington and Lake Union. Without the locks, the east-west highway traffic on the Interstate-90 and State Route-520 floating bridges, the water and sewer systems that serve Mercer Island residents, and approximately 75 miles of developed commercial, municipal, and residential shoreline would be at risk. It also supports emergency response by the Seattle Fire Department, Seattle Harbor Patrol, King County Sheriff, and U.S. Coast Guard. The facilitys spillway and fish ladder serve as a link for salmon and steelhead migrating from the ocean upstream to fresh water spawning grounds, which is important for federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and tribal trust responsibilities. While the Army Corps has worked hard to maintain the project, the ship canal and locks are 100 years old. In 2012, the Dam Safety Action Classification rating for the project was designated as Class II (high urgency) and we understand an updated dam safety review is underway. In addition, several Army Corps reviews, including a Probability Failure Mode Analysis, 2012 Periodic Inspection, and 2013 Operational Condition Assessment, found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. In 2010, the Seattle District began developing a prioritized list of the major maintenance projects that must be completed to restore and modernize the project. We appreciate the Administrations past work to repair the monolith scour, replace the spillway radial gate and dewatering pump plant, and the ongoing effort to install a new emergency closure crane for the large lock. We understand the next priority project would replace the original 1916 stoney gate filling culvert valves, including lifting machinery, control systems, and other components. These valves are used to raise or lower the water elevation in the large lock and are heavily corroded and warn. The lifting machinery is obsolete and unreliable, and the valve speed cannot be adjusted to support ESA fish migration. We respectfully request that you allocate funding through the Army Corps Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request to replace the stoney gate filling culvert valves and continue work on necessary repairs and upgrades of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This project is vital to the economy, public safety, and environmental in Puget Sound. Thank you for your consideration of our request. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-smith-decries-republican-s-reckless-actions-endangering,Congressman Smith Decries Republicans Reckless Actions Endangering Mandatory Programs,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Adam Smith,S000510,adamsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"As Republicans in Congress continue to push their reckless tax cuts, they put at risk crucial agencies and programs, such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), military pensions, and Medicare. In addition to massively benefiting the wealthy and corporations, as well as reducing revenue by more than a trillion dollars, the tax bill endangers important mandatory spending priorities on which middle class and working Americans rely. In 2010, to help reign in deficit spending, Congress passed what is known as a PAYGO law, requiring that the legislation enacted during a session of Congress not increase the deficit under threat of automatic cuts. Because of its imbalance, the Republican tax bill risks triggering these automatic and across-the-board PAYGO cuts to critical mandatory spending programs. In a strikingly disingenuous statement, the Senate Majority Leader and Speaker of the House have asserted that the PAYGO cuts to mandatory programs that will be triggered by their tax bill will not happen for some unspecified and seemingly miraculous reason. Either Republicans have a way to skirt the law that they havent shared, or their tax bill is going to trigger the automatic cuts. Both scenarios are terrible for the middle class. Empty rhetoric is not enough, and Republicans irresponsible disregard for the consequences of their actions is dangerous. I continue to oppose the Republican tax bill and the damage it will inflict on the future of our economy and our country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2239,WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Suzan DelBene, Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair. In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. The full text of the letter is below and here. Dear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: We write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region. The Army Corps initiated planning for the ship canal and locks to connect the fresh water of Lake Union, Lake Washington, and Salmon Bay to the salt water of Puget Sound in the late 1890s following initial authorization in the River and Harbor Act of 1890. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the Lake Washington Ship Canal with a double lock was authorized in the River and Harbor Act of 1910. Construction began in 1911 and the locks were formally opened for vessel traffic on July 4, 1917. This project consists of a 30-foot ship canal, large and small navigation lock, dam, spillway with six gates, fish ladder, visitor center, and Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens. The Ballard Locks allow commercial and recreational vessels to travel to the docks, shipyards, warehouses, maintenance and repair facilities, and marinas in the regions fresh water lakes while reducing maintenance costs and prolonging vessel life in the fresh water environment. The importance of the locks to the maritime industry is underscored by their annual usage. Each year, the Ballard Locks support approximately 45,000 vessel transits and 14,000 lockage counts, making them the busiest lock in the United States in overall vessel traffic. For commercial vessel transits only, the Ballard Locks are the twelfth busiest in the nation. The locks provide critical public safety and environmental functions. It maintains the water level of Lake Washington and Lake Union. Without the locks, the east-west highway traffic on the Interstate-90 and State Route-520 floating bridges, the water and sewer systems that serve Mercer Island residents, and approximately 75 miles of developed commercial, municipal, and residential shoreline would be at risk. It also supports emergency response by the Seattle Fire Department, Seattle Harbor Patrol, King County Sheriff, and U.S. Coast Guard. The facilitys spillway and fish ladder serve as a link for salmon and steelhead migrating from the ocean upstream to fresh water spawning grounds, which is important for federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and tribal trust responsibilities. While the Army Corps has worked hard to maintain the project, the ship canal and locks are 100 years old. In 2012, the Dam Safety Action Classification rating for the project was designated as Class II (high urgency) and we understand an updated dam safety review is underway. In addition, several Army Corps reviews, including a Probability Failure Mode Analysis, 2012 Periodic Inspection, and 2013 Operational Condition Assessment, found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. In 2010, the Seattle District began developing a prioritized list of the major maintenance projects that must be completed to restore and modernize the project. We appreciate the Administrations past work to repair the monolith scour, replace the spillway radial gate and dewatering pump plant, and the ongoing effort to install a new emergency closure crane for the large lock. We understand the next priority project would replace the original 1916 stoney gate filling culvert valves, including lifting machinery, control systems, and other components. These valves are used to raise or lower the water elevation in the large lock and are heavily corroded and warn. The lifting machinery is obsolete and unreliable, and the valve speed cannot be adjusted to support ESA fish migration. We respectfully request that you allocate funding through the Army Corps Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request to replace the stoney gate filling culvert valves and continue work on necessary repairs and upgrades of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This project is vital to the economy, public safety, and environmental in Puget Sound. Thank you for your consideration of our request. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-hearing-builds-momentum-for-cfius-reform,House Hearing Builds Momentum for CFIUS Reform,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"House members on Thursday began digging into the details of a bill to reform the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States by increasing scrutiny of business deals that transfer valuable technology to countries like China that may pose a national security threat. This is a problem that every part of the U.S. government will have to work together to address,"" Rep. Denny Heck said during a hearing of the House Financial Services Monetary Policy and Trade Subcommittee. ""There are some aspects of this problem that can only be addressed through legislative action to close gaps in existing CFIUS authority."" Subcommittee Chairman Andy Barr praised the legislation and said he expected more hearings on it in early 2018. The bill, identified asH.R. 4311 (115)in the House andS. 2098 (115)in the Senate, would expand CFIUS's jurisdiction to include some joint ventures, minority-position investments and real estate transactions located near military bases or other sensitive national security institutions. It would also expand the definition of ""critical technologies"" to include emerging technologies. For more details on the hearing, read the story from POLITICOs Mary Leehere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-intel-dem-if-trump-pardons-flynn-it-will-be-the-beginning-of-the,House Intel dem: If Trump pardons Flynn it will be the beginning of the unraveling of his presidency,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"House Intelligence Committee member Rep. Dennis Heck (D-WA) on Friday warned Donald Trump against considering a pardon for his onetime national security adviser Michael Flynn, telling CNNs Kate Bolduan that doing so will be the beginning of the unraveling of his presidency. Trump kept the door opened for pardoning Flynn, who pleaded guilty earlier this month to lying to the FBI about the nature of his conversations with the Russian ambassador. I dont want to talk about pardons with Mike Flynn yet, Trump told reporters when asked if hes considered exonerating he longtime political ally. If President Trump pardons Mike Flynn or any of the other people involved in this, I confidently predict it will be the beginning of the unraveling of his presidency, Heck said, comparing such a move with Richard Nixons Saturday Night Massacre. Heck also pointed out that special counsel Robert Mueller included a binding agreement in his plea deal with Flynn requiring the retired general to comply with state and local authorities. The president can pardon these people for violations of federal crimes, but cannot pardon them for violations of state crimes, Heck explained. So, if he thinks hes going to give them a get out of jail free card, hes flat wrong, he added. Once again, this presidentwho seems frankly, on so many occasions not to embrace the basic and fundamental American precept of the rule of lawhe just doesnt get it. Heck also criticized he Republican counterparts in the House Intelligence Committee, arguing theyre trying to get to the end of the investigation at a rate or at a velocity which is completely out of sync with what is necessary to do this job.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/wa-lawmakers-urge-federal-funding-critical-upgrades-ballard-locks,WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair. In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: We write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region. The Army Corps initiated planning for the ship canal and locks to connect the fresh water of Lake Union, Lake Washington, and Salmon Bay to the salt water of Puget Sound in the late 1890s following initial authorization in the River and Harbor Act of 1890. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the Lake Washington Ship Canal with a double lock was authorized in the River and Harbor Act of 1910. Construction began in 1911 and the locks were formally opened for vessel traffic on July 4, 1917. This project consists of a 30-foot ship canal, large and small navigation lock, dam, spillway with six gates, fish ladder, visitor center, and Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens. The Ballard Locks allow commercial and recreational vessels to travel to the docks, shipyards, warehouses, maintenance and repair facilities, and marinas in the regions fresh water lakes while reducing maintenance costs and prolonging vessel life in the fresh water environment. The importance of the locks to the maritime industry is underscored by their annual usage. Each year, the Ballard Locks support approximately 45,000 vessel transits and 14,000 lockage counts, making them the busiest lock in the United States in overall vessel traffic. For commercial vessel transits only, the Ballard Locks are the twelfth busiest in the nation. The locks provide critical public safety and environmental functions. It maintains the water level of Lake Washington and Lake Union. Without the locks, the east-west highway traffic on the Interstate-90 and State Route-520 floating bridges, the water and sewer systems that serve Mercer Island residents, and approximately 75 miles of developed commercial, municipal, and residential shoreline would be at risk. It also supports emergency response by the Seattle Fire Department, Seattle Harbor Patrol, King County Sheriff, and U.S. Coast Guard. The facilitys spillway and fish ladder serve as a link for salmon and steelhead migrating from the ocean upstream to fresh water spawning grounds, which is important for federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and tribal trust responsibilities. While the Army Corps has worked hard to maintain the project, the ship canal and locks are 100 years old. In 2012, the Dam Safety Action Classification rating for the project was designated as Class II (high urgency) and we understand an updated dam safety review is underway. In addition, several Army Corps reviews, including a Probability Failure Mode Analysis, 2012 Periodic Inspection, and 2013 Operational Condition Assessment, found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. In 2010, the Seattle District began developing a prioritized list of the major maintenance projects that must be completed to restore and modernize the project. We appreciate the Administrations past work to repair the monolith scour, replace the spillway radial gate and dewatering pump plant, and the ongoing effort to install a new emergency closure crane for the large lock. We understand the next priority project would replace the original 1916 stoney gate filling culvert valves, including lifting machinery, control systems, and other components. These valves are used to raise or lower the water elevation in the large lock and are heavily corroded and warn. The lifting machinery is obsolete and unreliable, and the valve speed cannot be adjusted to support ESA fish migration. We respectfully request that you allocate funding through the Army Corps Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request to replace the stoney gate filling culvert valves and continue work on necessary repairs and upgrades of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This project is vital to the economy, public safety, and environmental in Puget Sound. Thank you for your consideration of our request. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=0A3E3827-D172-48F1-8D59-DD1543B40DD4,"OPIOID CRISIS: Senator Murray Asks Nations Governors, Insurance Commissioners How Federal Government Can Be Best Partner for States on the Front Lines of Opioid Crisis",2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate health committees top Democrat & Republican send letter to all of nations governors and insurance commissioners asking for specific recommendations to address crisis taking 91 American lives every day ICYMI: Senator Murray admonishes Trump Administration for continued failure to support emergency funding needed to combat epidemic devastating Washington state & communities nationwide Sen. Murray tackles opioid crisis, says it isnt somebody elses problem. Its all of ours (Washington, D.C.) Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and committee chairman Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) yesterday sent a letter to every governor and state insurance commissioner in the nation asking for their specific recommendations on how the federal government can be the most effective partner for states in the battle against the opioid crisis. We are writing to ask what further changes to federal law or regulations would be helpful as you work to combat the opioid crisis in your state. Prescription drug abuse and misuse, and especially opioid abuse and misuse, is a public health crisis that has increased dramatically in scope during recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, since 1999, the rate of overdose deaths involving opioids has nearly quadrupled, with over 183,000 deaths in the U.S. between 1999 and 2015. In 2016, an estimated 64,000 Americans died from a drug overdose, and beginning in 2013, the nation has seen a skyrocketing increase in deaths related to fentanyl and synthetic opioids with over 20,000 overdose deaths. Every day, 91 Americans die from an opioid overdose, the senators wrote. As a voice for Washington state, Senator Murray has long been focused on bringing an end to the opioid crisis that has deeply impacted communities throughout the region. In addition to traveling throughout Washington state to hear from families, patients, medical professionals and law enforcement about the unique challenges local communities face in their fight against the epidemic, Senator Murray has also worked to find bipartisan solutions to help combat opioid addiction and support recovery and prevention efforts. On November 30, Senators Murray and Alexander chaired a hearing in the Senates health committeethe second in a series of hearings on the opioid crisiswhich focused on what is happening at the state and local levels to address the crisis. On October 5, the committee held its first hearing of the series on the federal response to the opioid crisis with witnesses from the administration. Additionally, the 21st Century Cures Act, sponsored by Senator Murray and passed in December 2016, included provisions to advance biomedical research and speed the development of new safe and effective treatments and cures to patients, and provided $1 billion for state opioid prevention and treatment efforts. Below is the full text of the letter: December 14, 2017 Dear Governors: We are writing to ask what further changes to federal law or regulations would be helpful as you work to combat the opioid crisis in your state. Prescription drug abuse and misuse, and especially opioid abuse and misuse, is a public health crisis that has increased dramatically in scope during recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, since 1999, the rate of overdose deaths involving opioids has nearly quadrupled, with over 183,000 deaths in the U.S. between 1999 and 2015. In 2016, an estimated 64,000 Americans died from a drug overdose, and beginning in 2013, the nation has seen a skyrocketing increase in deaths related to fentanyl and synthetic opioids with over 20,000 overdose deaths. Every day, 91 Americans die from an opioid overdose. Congress has been working in a bipartisan way to ensure that federal laws intended to help fight this crisis are up to date. In 2015, the Protecting Our Infants Act helped address the growing problem of infants being born exposed to opioids. In 2016, the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act established new programs and encouraged those on the front lines to work together to combat substance use disorders. Also in 2016, as part of the 21st Century Cures Act, Congress modernized authorities and programs at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to better prevent and treat opioid use disorders and provided $1 billion of funding for two years to help states respond to the opioid crisis. All three bills were signed into law during the 114th Congress, and the first round of funding from the 21st Century Cures Act, a total of $485 million in grants, has been issued to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and four U.S. territories. We are asking you to inform us how these laws have helped state and local officials address the opioid crisis, whether additional changes to federal law or regulation are necessary, and if so, what specific changes should be considered. Please submit recommendations and comments to HELPfightsopioids@help.senate.gov no later than January 15, 2018. Congress will continue to work on this national problem, and we appreciate your input to help our efforts to develop bipartisan, common-sense solutions that provide you with the tools and flexibility you need to fight the opioid crisis. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=7FB30FC6-435C-4CBF-BE93-D0F1DC1A78E4,WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The 100-year-old Locksresponsible for more than $1 billion in economic activity each yearare in desperate need of repairs (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair. In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. The full text of the letter is below and here. The Honorable Ryan A. Fisher Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) U.S. Department of the Army 108 Army Pentagon Washington, D.C. 20310-0108 The Honorable Mick Mulvaney Director Office of Management and Budget 725 17th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20503 Dear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: We write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region. The Army Corps initiated planning for the ship canal and locks to connect the fresh water of Lake Union, Lake Washington, and Salmon Bay to the salt water of Puget Sound in the late 1890s following initial authorization in the River and Harbor Act of 1890. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the Lake Washington Ship Canal with a double lock was authorized in the River and Harbor Act of 1910. Construction began in 1911 and the locks were formally opened for vessel traffic on July 4, 1917. This project consists of a 30-foot ship canal, large and small navigation lock, dam, spillway with six gates, fish ladder, visitor center, and Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens. The Ballard Locks allow commercial and recreational vessels to travel to the docks, shipyards, warehouses, maintenance and repair facilities, and marinas in the regions fresh water lakes while reducing maintenance costs and prolonging vessel life in the fresh water environment. The importance of the locks to the maritime industry is underscored by their annual usage. Each year, the Ballard Locks support approximately 45,000 vessel transits and 14,000 lockage counts, making them the busiest lock in the United States in overall vessel traffic. For commercial vessel transits only, the Ballard Locks are the twelfth busiest in the nation. The locks provide critical public safety and environmental functions. It maintains the water level of Lake Washington and Lake Union. Without the locks, the east-west highway traffic on the Interstate-90 and State Route-520 floating bridges, the water and sewer systems that serve Mercer Island residents, and approximately 75 miles of developed commercial, municipal, and residential shoreline would be at risk. It also supports emergency response by the Seattle Fire Department, Seattle Harbor Patrol, King County Sheriff, and U.S. Coast Guard. The facilitys spillway and fish ladder serve as a link for salmon and steelhead migrating from the ocean upstream to fresh water spawning grounds, which is important for federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and tribal trust responsibilities. While the Army Corps has worked hard to maintain the project, the ship canal and locks are 100 years old. In 2012, the Dam Safety Action Classification rating for the project was designated as Class II (high urgency) and we understand an updated dam safety review is underway. In addition, several Army Corps reviews, including a Probability Failure Mode Analysis, 2012 Periodic Inspection, and 2013 Operational Condition Assessment, found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. In 2010, the Seattle District began developing a prioritized list of the major maintenance projects that must be completed to restore and modernize the project. We appreciate the Administrations past work to repair the monolith scour, replace the spillway radial gate and dewatering pump plant, and the ongoing effort to install a new emergency closure crane for the large lock. We understand the next priority project would replace the original 1916 stoney gate filling culvert valves, including lifting machinery, control systems, and other components. These valves are used to raise or lower the water elevation in the large lock and are heavily corroded and warn. The lifting machinery is obsolete and unreliable, and the valve speed cannot be adjusted to support ESA fish migration. We respectfully request that you allocate funding through the Army Corps Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request to replace the stoney gate filling culvert valves and continue work on necessary repairs and upgrades of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This project is vital to the economy, public safety, and environmental in Puget Sound. Thank you for your consideration of our request. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=FF7C6BD0-0D1B-42E5-8F00-CB37B5D1A92E,Senator Murray Statement on Court Decision to Temporarily Block President Trumps Rollback of Birth Control Access,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Murray: Access to birth control isnt about politics, its about a womans health and her financial security WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) issued the following statement on a Pennsylvania federal judges decision to temporarily block the Trump Administrations rules that would allow virtually any employer or university to choose whether or not birth control is covered under their employees insurance. This decision recognizes what women across the country already know: access to birth control isnt about politics, its about a womans health and her financial security. The Trump Administrations decision to allow virtually any employer or university to take birth control coverage away from women will have deeply harmful consequences for them and their families, and Im going to keep doing everything I can to fight back against their extreme, anti-woman agenda.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2238,DelBene Statement in Opposition of the FCC Vote to Repeal Net Neutrality,2017-12-14,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to repeal net neutrality rules that were put in place to protect consumers: America has been a world leader in innovation in large part because weve benefited from a free and open internet, but we wont remain at the top by adopting backward policies that hurt consumers, DelBene said. I strongly oppose the FCCs decision to fully repeal net neutrality and allow internet service providers to influence the content users can see. Given the opportunity, internet service providers could block content and services or charge premiums for the kind of open access weve come to expect. Theres no question that todays vote is a massive loss, both for consumers and for innovation. Today, the FCC voted to rescind the 2015 Open Internet Order net neutrality which has protected consumers from internet service providers blocking, throttling or prioritizing certain content and services for a fee. Before serving in Congress, DelBene had a long career in the technology sector as a businesswoman and entrepreneur. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-portman-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-help-people-receive-care-in-their-homes-reduce-health-costs-,"Cantwell, Portman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help People Receive Care in their Homes, Reduce Health Costs",2017-12-14,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.17 Cantwell, Portman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help People Receive Care in their Homes, Reduce Health Costs WASHINGTON, D.C.  – U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Rob Portman (R-OH) have introduced the Ensuring Medicaid Provides Opportunities for Widespread Equity, Resources, and Care Act – or EMPOWER Care Act – to help Medicaid beneficiaries receive long-term services and support in their community or home and help save taxpayer dollars in the process. The bill would renew and expand the Money Follows the Person (MFP) Demonstration Program, which promotes community-based care and services and is as a sterling example of an initiative that improves patient outcomes while saving money for state and federal taxpayers. The program extended in Cantwell and Portman’s legislation provides states with funding and flexibility to help Medicaid beneficiaries, including the elderly and people with disabilities, transition from institutional settings to home and community-based long-term care settings. “Helping people access long-term care while staying in their own homes is a win-win: patients prefer it, and it saves money,” said Senator Cantwell. “The EMPOWER Care Act will build on Washington state’s leadership in promoting home- and community-based care, by giving states tools and resources to improve quality of life and reduce health care costs in their Medicaid programs.” “I’m proud to continue my support for the Money Follows the Person program, by introducing the EMPOWER Care Act.  Money Follows the Person has provided over 10,000 Ohioans with the opportunity receive the care that they need in their homes and communities, and I will continue to fight to ensure that all Ohioans can continue to have a choice in where they seek long-term care support,” said Senator Portman. As of September 2016, 43 states and the District of Columbia have participated in the MFP Demonstration Program.  As of 2013, the program has saved nearly $1 billion for Medicare and Medicaid and helped over 63,000 individuals receive care at home or in a community-based setting, according to a recent report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  ""People with disabilities and older adults simply want the same thing we all want - to live independently and age with dignity. However, far too many people end up in costly nursing homes when they could remain at home if they had access to community-based services,"" said Joe Caldwell, National Council on Aging Director of Long-term Supports and Services. ""The Money Follows the Person program is an integral support states need to help transition more individuals back home. It has improved the lives of over 75,000 individuals with disabilities and older adults and saved the federal government and states nearly a billion dollars. We applaud the bi-partisan leadership of Senators Portman and Cantwell to extend and improve the program."" A documented success for more than two decades, community-based care has produced savings of more than $2.5 billion in Washington state. Through the MFP Demonstration Program specifically, Washington state’s Medicaid program has saved $21 million dollars during a two-year period and assisted 6,700 Medicaid patients transition to community-based care settings, according to data from the Washington state Department of Social and Health Services. “Money Follows the Person has provided critical tools and supports that have helped people all across Washington State relocate from institutional settings back to the community.  Without this support, many elders and persons with disabilities would remain stuck in facilities, instead of being able to return to the community and regain their independence,” said Lynn Kimball, chair of the Washington Association of Area Agencies on Aging. Senator Cantwell was an early champion of “rebalancing” efforts to shift Medicaid beneficiaries to community-based care settings. In the Affordable Care Act, Cantwell championed a provision, the Balancing Incentive Program that provides states with financial incentives to transition their long-term care populations to home- and community-based care services.  Eighteen states have participated in Cantwell’s program and have substantially increased their utilization of home- and community-based long term care. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-responds-to-fcc-net-neutrality-decision-with-legislation-to-block-repeal-of-open-internet-rules,Cantwell Responds to FCC Net Neutrality Decision with Legislation to Block Repeal of Open Internet Rules,2017-12-14,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.17 Cantwell Responds to FCC Net Neutrality Decision with Legislation to Block Repeal of Open Internet Rules WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology, and 15 of her Senate colleagues joined together to announce their plan to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that would undo today’s action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to undermine the free and open internet and thus restore the 2015 net neutrality rules. “Today’s decision threatens our booming innovation economy,” said Senator Cantwell. “It’s impossible to know where the next big companies will come from, which makes an open and free internet all the more important to innovators, entrepreneurs and job creators – especially in the tech-driven Pacific Northwest.” Overturning the net neutrality rules threatens the principles that built America’s booming internet economy and opens the door for cable companies and internet service providers to start slowing down and blocking content, applications or websites, without consequences. CRA resolutions allow Congress to overturn regulatory actions at federal agencies with a simple majority vote in both chambers. In accordance with the Congressional Review Act, the Senators will formally introduce the resolution once the rule is submitted to both houses of Congress and published in the federal register. The CRA resolution of disapproval would rescind FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s action and fully restore the Open Internet Order. Congressman Mike Doyle (D-Penn.) plans to introduce a CRA resolution in the House of Representatives.  Other Senators co-sponsoring the CRA resolution include Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D–CT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Gary Peters (D-MI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Jack Reed (D-RI) In the Senate, Cantwell has been a leader in the struggle to establish and protect net neutrality and equal access to the internet. She was an early advocate for the FCC to take up net neutrality and used her position as a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee to keep continuous pressure on the Commission during the drafting and implementation of the rules. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-senators-proposed-cuts-to-epa-threaten-public-health,"Cantwell, Senators: Proposed Cuts to EPA Threaten Public Health",2017-12-14,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.17 Cantwell, Senators: Proposed Cuts to EPA Threaten Public Health WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined three dozen Senators in pushing back on proposed cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) budget that would threaten public health and the environment. “The Trump Administration has made dismantling the EPA a core mission. We urge you to oppose any legislation that advances that goal by further cutting the EPA's already decimated funding levels,” the Senators wrote in a letter to Senate leaders. “Because of these endless attacks on both the career employees and regional programs, the EPA is badly underfunded, understaffed and struggling to perform its basic and legally required functions,” they continued. “We cannot tolerate efforts to cripple an agency that, with increased use of Voluntary Separation Incentive Payments, is operating with staffing levels not seen since the 1980s.” As the Senators pointed out in the letter, these cuts threaten the EPA’s core missions of protecting the environment and public health. If the EPA’s funding levels continue to be slashed, fewer polluters will be held accountable, and clean air and water projects across the United States will be threatened. In addition to Merkley, the letter was signed by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tom Udall (D-NM), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Gary Peters (D-MI), Al Franken (D-MN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Angus King (I-ME), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Jon Tester (D-MT). The full text of the letter is below and here.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=42100BA5-F251-46AA-9EF7-6697B6C651CE,Senator Murrays Statement on Vote to Roll Back Net Neutrality Rules,2017-12-14,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement: “Despite the pleas of millions of Americans, President Trump’s FCC voted to change the internet as we know it, and turn it into yet another money-making tool for large corporations. This move is shameful and wrong, and I encourage the many, many people affected by today’s decision—from students and families, to small business owners and the next generation of innovators—to keep fighting back. We will not forget who and what comes first in the Trump/Republican agenda.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2237,DelBenes Landslide Bill Clears House Natural Resources Committee,2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Natural Resources Committee passed with unanimous support Congresswoman Suzan DelBene’s (WA-01) National Landslide Preparedness Act – a bipartisan, bicameral bill she introduced earlier this year with Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA). “Lawmakers need to do more to ensure we fund resources and research efforts to prevent future natural disasters from becoming national tragedies,” DelBene said. “It is time that landslide hazards are addressed properly and in a collaborative fashion and I’m glad the House Natural Resources Committee passed my legislation to boost significant scientific progress and help communities better prepare for when landslides do occur.” The National Landslide Preparedness Act would establish a National Landslide Hazards Reduction Program through the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to better identify and understand landslide risks, protect communities, save lives and property and help improve emergency preparedness. The bill now heads to the House floor for further consideration. According to the USGS and National Research Council, landslide hazards claim 25 to 50 lives each year and cause between $1.6 and $3.2 billion in damages in the United States. DelBene introduced the legislation after a massive landslide near Oso, Washington, killed 43 people, engulfed 42 homes and severely damaged public infrastructure and private property on March 22, 2014. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ahead-of-tomorrows-fcc-vote-cantwell-defends-net-neutrality,"Ahead of Tomorrow’s FCC Vote, Cantwell Defends Net Neutrality",2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.17 Ahead of Tomorrow’s FCC Vote, Cantwell Defends Net Neutrality WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) took to the Senate floor to defend net neutrality and urge the Federal Communications (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai to halt his efforts to roll back protections for an open and free internet. The FCC is expected to vote along party lines in favor of Chairman Pai’s efforts to end net neutrality, which will allows cable companies and service providers to block, throttle, or prioritize content. Here is an excerpt from Senator Cantwell’s remarks. “The FCC has had rules that prevented companies from throttling or blocking, and those rules have paved the way to many great successes. We have in the United States Fortune 500 companies and a tech industry that is responsible for 7% of our nation's GDP and 6.9 million jobs in the United States of America. Why would you change the rules now? …13% of Washington state's economy depends on a healthy internet sector. The internet economy for our state supports 250,000 jobs and…these tech jobs have been a bedrock for the middle class. Chairman Pai is clearly not focused on the 13,000 tech companies in the state of Washington, the 250,000 jobs, and the 13% of our state's economy.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-warns-the-gop-tax-bill-will-harm-affordable-housing-efforts-leave-working-families-in-the-rain,"Cantwell Warns the GOP Tax Bill Will Harm Affordable Housing Efforts, Leave Working Families in the Rain",2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.17 Cantwell Warns the GOP Tax Bill Will Harm Affordable Housing Efforts, Leave Working Families in the Rain Senator to GOP tax-writers: don’t let down working families by failing to address the nation’s affordable housing crisis WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) dialed up her fight to expand Americans’ access to affordable housing. At what was likely the only meeting of the House-Senate Conference Committee to reconcile the GOP tax bills, Cantwell urged her Republican colleagues not to abandon their constituents by using the tax bill to strip out or undermine the country’s most successful programs for creating and rehabilitating affordable housing. Multiple provisions in the House and Senate tax legislation would eliminate or substantially weaken the two most effective vehicle for creating affordable housing: the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and Private Activity Bonds (PABs). In the conference committee hearing, Cantwell noted the large bipartisan group of senators who are on record supporting an expansion of affordable housing. “Yet the tax bill before us today goes in the opposite direction, with potentially crippling impact on our nation’s most important program for building and preserving affordable housing,” said Cantwell. “As many as 800,000 fewer units [of affordable housing] will be built over the next ten years because of this House language.” Earlier in the day, Cantwell laid out just how high the stakes are if Republicans’ tax bill fails to address the country’s affordable housing crisis. At a speech before the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) earlier today, Cantwell spoke to a BPC report indicating that a lack of access to affordable housing has negative health consequences for low- and middle-income Americans.  The LIHTC contributes to 90% of the new affordable housing units built in the U.S., far surpassing any other federal affordable housing program. PABs are the primary vehicles state and local governments use to finance affordable housing projects. Senator Cantwell has applied relentless pressure on her Republican colleagues and the White House to address the mounting affordable housing crisis in their tax legislation. A full transcript of Senator Cantwell’s remarks is below. Senator Cantwell: The House and Senate bill severely undermine the means by which we build affordable housing for working class families in America. The Low Income Housing Tax Credit was part of the 1986 act and had bipartisan support. Senator Hatch and I believe we should be expanding the affordable tax credit. Nine members of the Finance Committee, including five Republican members are co-sponsors of the bill. In fact, four Republican co-sponsors of the Affordable Housing Tax Credit expansion are sitting on this conference committee, as well as three democratic co-sponsors. Yet the tax bill before us today goes in the opposite direction, with potentially crippling impact on our nation's most important program for building and preserving affordable housing. Nearly 20 million Americans are in this crisis of affordability. Look at what's happening now in the states of Texas and Florida, as they face the crisis of rebuilding after the hurricanes. Under the House proposal, the tax-exempt status for private activity bonds would be eliminated, including for multi-housing bonds, which would account for about half of all the housing production under the Low Income Housing Tax Credit. I keep hearing justifications for getting rid of the bonds, because some people don't like the activities that they support, but tell me which ones of you don't support that for housing. If it is the case, preserve the housing credit. According to an estimate, as many as 800,000 fewer units will be built over the next ten years, because of this house language. Now, the Senate has problems, as well. Obviously, we want to make sure that our colleagues understand that investors who currently are able to deduct losses generated in the investment as a result of the limit on the rents to make sure that housing is affordable. Affordable housing projects do not earn returns for their investors like private real estate, so reducing the top rate does not provide a benefit, and will not increase an incentive. It is because the tax deduction investors take under the proposal will be worth considerably less at 20% compared to the 35% rate. The result is investors will pay less for the given credit, and we estimate as about $2 billion less, or 200,000 units, about a 15% reduction. As well as the BEAT erosion, trying to focus on foreign corporations. We believe that there are those who are investing along with JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup that account for $1.5-2 billion of investment annually that also will be reduced, making about 10 to 15% less available for investment and affordable housing. These three things taken together will probably, if all impacted the way this bill is written, reduce by 50% the amount of affordable housing when we need to be going in the opposite the direction. I yield to my colleague. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/citing-unknown-impacts-on-students-and-schools-senators-cantwell-and-murray-demand-delay-of-net-neutrality-decision,"Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision",2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.17 Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision Senators are concerned rolling back net neutrality could exacerbate education inequity and increase digital divide (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate education committee, and 20 U.S. Senators sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai urging him to consider how a free, fair and open internet provides our nation’s students with opportunities to learn and succeed. Senators requested Chairman Pai delay the proposed vote to undo net neutrality until he specifically addresses the impacts on students and schools—specifically those in rural or low-income communities, as well as how it will address education equity and the digital divide. “By overturning the Commission’s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation’s students and schools—especially those in rural and low-income communities,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order’s impact on our nation’s students and their ability to learn.” Allowing internet service providers to limit access and increase costs could increase the digital divide for students in rural and low-income areas, where their only access to the internet may be at a resource-constrained school or a public library. This decision could also hinder teachers’ and students’ ability to access educational materials from around the globe and make it more difficult for students with disabilities and English learners to receive a high-quality education. On December 14, the Commission is expected to vote along party lines in favor of Chairman Pai’s proposal, which will roll back the FCC’s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization and will give more power to internet service providers (ISPs). In addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Al Franken (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). Full text of letter below and PDF HERE.  December 12, 2017  The Honorable Ajit PaiChairmanFederal Communications Commission445 12th Street SouthwestWashington, DC 20554 Dear Chairman Pai: We write today regarding your draft order—the Restoring Internet Freedom Order (“the Draft Order”) —and its potential impacts on students, schools, and institutions of higher education. By overturning the Commission’s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation’s students and schools—especially those in rural and low-income communities. We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order’s impact on our nation’s students and their ability to learn. In the past four years, P-12 schools have made enormous strides in improving access to high-speed connectivity for all students. In 2013, 40 million students were in schools not meeting the 100 kbps per student threshold. By 2017, only 6.5 million students were in schools not meeting this goal—narrowing this gap by 84 percent. From early childhood education through higher education and workforce training, students need access to high-speed internet in order to learn and make the most of their educational experience. The Draft Order runs counter to our national goal of affordable, high-speed internet for all students. By rolling back the FCC’s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization, the Draft Order could lead to a tiered and compartmentalized internet, and whose characteristic openness is limited to those students, schools, and institutions who can afford it. Beyond that, the Draft Order threatens to impede innovation that has taken place within the educational sphere, including when it comes to access to high-quality online coursework. Our nation’s P-12 education system increasingly relies on an open internet to improve equity and access to high-quality content and instruction. Teachers depend on the internet to collaborate with colleagues and to access educational materials from around the globe. Entrepreneurs and educators alike have been able to develop high-quality educational technologies that support state standards and equip schools and teachers to personalize instruction. These technologies, which include educational apps and online coursework, help students learn valuable research and internet safety skills, and expand access to a high-quality education for students with disabilities and English learners. By allowing ISPs to limit access and increase costs, the Draft Order could threaten educational equity and exacerbate the digital divide.  Rural schools could be particularly harmed by the potential effects of the Draft Order. One recent analysis shows that the 77 percent of the schools that lack high-speed fiber connections are in rural communities. Despite the Draft Order’s claim that the Commission’s current rules have stifled investment in internet infrastructure and rural communities, independent studies have found that such investments by ISPs have largely remained stable and in some cases have increased in underserved areas. The Draft Order would neither protect fiscally-strapped schools and school districts from aggressive ISP pricing practices, nor would it guarantee any additional investment in underserved areas. Institutions of higher education rely on an open internet to carry out both their educational and research missions. For instance, online coursework has grown significantly over the past decade: as of the fall of 2015, more than 6 million students enrolled in at least one online course, representing about 30 percent of enrollments, compared to less than 10 percent in the fall of 2002. Should the Draft Order be adopted, video lectures and online learning resources that are essential to institutions of higher education may be rendered unavailable by ISPs that decide to block them or otherwise privilege a competing resource. Additionally, basic research, which today more than ever relies upon frequent exchange of massive data sets online, could be severely impacted by a tiered and tolled internet. The Association of Research Libraries has stated that “if our institutions had to pay a fee in order to access these connections or download these digital files, it wouldn't happen.” Resource-constrained public institutions of higher education, the biggest users of online coursework, which remain funded nearly $9 billion below their per-student levels before the Great Recession, would particularly feel these constraints. The Draft Order may also disproportionately impact students whose only adequate connection to the internet is the one inside their classroom. Even in 2017, far too many students lack access to a reliable, high-speed internet connection outside their classrooms—at home or off-campus. According to a 2015 Pew Research Center analysis, approximately 5 million households with school-age children did not have high-speed internet at home. This analysis found that households with annual incomes under $50,000 were more than three times as likely to lack a high-speed connection than those with incomes over $50,000; nearly 40 percent of households with annual incomes under $25,000—165 percent of full-time federal minimum wage—did not have a high-speed connection. Coupled with the Commission’s recent modifications to the Lifeline program and proposed changes to the critical Universal Service Fund’s Schools and Libraries Program (“E-Rate”) program, implementation of the Draft Order could further deepen the “digital divide,” effectively limiting or outright denying internet access to the students who need it most. In summary, we are deeply concerned about the Draft Order’s impact on our nation’s education system. Subsequently, we ask that you delay your planned vote to roll back net neutrality and forever change the landscape of the internet until you can satisfactorily answer the following questions: The Draft Order fails to make a single mention of ‘student’ or ‘students’ in its 210 pages; to what extent did the Commission contemplate the Draft Order’s impact on students and the programs, schools, and institutions of higher education that they attend? What tangible and enforceable guarantees does the Draft Order provide for schools and institutions of higher education in rural areas, which face substantial barriers to accessing a high-speed internet connection? What evidence does the Commission have that the Draft Order will provide superior connectivity over the regulatory regime currently in place? How will the Draft Order affect the E-Rate program, including the progress made in such program since the 2014 modernization order? Paragraph 256 of the Draft Order “reject[s] the contrary argument ISPs will engage in ‘virtual redlining’ because, as discussed, paid prioritization is likely to lead to increased network investment and lower costs to end users, particularly benefitting those on the wrong side of the digital divide.” What steps will the Commission take to ensure that ISPs do not engage in such behavior and that issues associated with the “digital divide” and the “homework gap” are not being actively exacerbated by the regulatory framework envisioned by the Draft Order? We thank you for your consideration of these pressing issues. We look forward to your swift and detailed response. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=802FB033-F409-4AE7-915E-88DA7B3C39D2,"Senator Murray Blasts Anti-Middle Class Provisions in Republican Tax Plan, Urges Leader Mitch McConnell to Halt Vote on Massive Tax Bill Until Alabamas Senator-Elect is Seated",2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In statement for initial conference committee meeting, Senator Murray takes reckless GOP tax bill to task, citing bill’s health care sabotage, economic burden on middle class families, and rushed, partisan process In follow-up letter to nonpartisan analysts, Senator Murray asks for clarity on GOP tax bill’s anti-middle class provisions and how it would affect families in Washington state and across the country ICYMI: “Senate Republicans have once again made it clear that their highest priority is handing more tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations” The Columbian: “Murray, Cantwell on conference committee for tax legislation” (Washington, D.C.) – Citing the devastating impact of the Republican tax plan on middle class families in Washington state and around the country, today Senator Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee and one of seven Senate Democrats appointed to the conference committee to negotiate the final legislation, urged Republicans on the committee to finally reverse course on their partisan proposal and begin working with Democrats on a plan to help working people. Additionally, Senator Murray called on Republican leaders to accept the will of the people in Alabama and halt their attempt to jam through a tax plan before Senator-elect Doug Jones is seated. In remarks submitted for the record at the conference committee’s first session, Senator Murray highlighted many concerns with the Republican tax plan, writing: “This has been a sham partisan process—a brazen partisan attempt to jam through legislation that would devastate our economy with as little scrutiny or debate as possible—and this dog-and-pony show of regular order today isn’t fooling anyone.  Because let’s be very clear about what this tax plan would do—it’s pretty simple. The Republican tax plan would be a massive giveaway to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations. It would raise taxes on the middle class. It would increase health premiums for millions of patients. It would open up the pristine Arctic Refuge to drilling. It would blast a massive hole in our deficit—and put Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security in grave danger.” Senator Murray also cautioned her colleagues that several health care proposals being discussed in tandem with the GOP tax plan, including the Murray-Alexander plan that would lower insurance premiums and stabilize insurance markets, would not undo the economic damage and health care sabotage caused by their tax bill: “The health care stabilization bill I worked on with Chairman Alexander and Senator Collins’ reinsurance bill are both good bills that would help push back against President Trump’s sabotage of health care, but they won’t stop the premium increases, coverage losses, and chaos that the Republican tax bill would cause—and that’s assuming they could even pass through the Republican House. So I urge my Republican colleagues to take a step back here, and stop this sham process while they still have a chance.” (Read Senator Murray’s full remarks submitted for the record HERE.) Additionally, Senator Murray posed several questions to the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) to clarify the specific impact of several of the bill’s provisions on working people. In a letter to Chief of Staff Thomas Barthold following the committee session, Senator Murray cited the exclusion of Democrats from the final process of drafting the conference committee legislation and requested information to confirm JCT’s analysis that several provisions in the Republican plan would worsen economic and health outcomes for many middle class families. Read the full text of Senator Murray’s letter below.   December 13, 2017    Mr. Thomas Barthold Chief of Staff Joint Committee on Taxation 502 Ford House Office Building Washington, DC 20515   Dear Mr. Barthold: Since I am unable to attend the Conference Committee meeting on H.R. 1, the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)” on Wednesday, I am submitting the questions I would have asked you if I were in attendance, as well as a few other critically important questions. However, I must first note that these questions are based on the tax bills that were jammed through the House and then the Senate at breakneck speed.  While I would prefer to tailor my questions to the actual tax bill that has been negotiated for this Conference Committee, my Democrat colleagues and I were not consulted nor invited to participate in those conversations.  Moreover, we have not seen the bill resulting from those negotiations, so this Conference Committee meeting seems to be more proof that this process was never intended to follow traditional order.     Can you confirm that if the House recedes to the Senate on a policy that repeals the individual coverage requirement, CBO estimates this policy would result in 13 million fewer Americans with health insurance coverage by 2027 and that premiums would be10 percent higher in most of the next ten years? If the Senate recedes to the House on the change to the 529 college savings plans redefining eligible beneficiaries, which we know were included to undermine women’s health and rights, will families be able to open college savings accounts any earlier than they are able to under current law? How many children live in families who will be affected by a new provision in this bill requiring the filer to have a Social Security number to claim the Child Tax Credit under both the House bill and the Senate amendment? How much revenue did filers with Individual Tax Identification Numbers contribute to the Federal Treasury? How is taking away this critical anti-poverty tool incentivizing these filers or helping children from immigrant families out of poverty?  Can you confirm that if the Senate recedes to the House on higher education tax provisions, the combined effect of changes to the tax credits, student loan interest deduction, employer-provided educational assistance, and tuition waivers would mean that students who enroll in higher education and training would see a collective tax increase of nearly $65 billion from 2018-2027? Can you confirm that if the Senate recedes to the House on changes to the Lifetime Learning tax credit, student loan interest deduction, and employer-provided educational assistance provisions, it would raise the tax liability of millions of graduate students nationwide According to estimates prepared by your office, ending the state and local tax deduction (SALT) will increase the effective tax rate for millions of people across the country, including about a third of those making between $50,000-$75,000 per year, and half of taxpayers making between $75,000- $100,000. As states, cities, and municipalities have told Members of Congress, much of these tax savings go to public education, public health care, and public infrastructure. As a result of the SALT elimination, can the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) confirm whether it anticipates a reduction in state and local spending on public education, public health care, and public infrastructure? Can you confirm that if the House recedes to the Senate on the sunset of the individual tax provisions, corporations would receive a massive permanent tax cut (from 35 to 20 percent tax rate), while certain individuals will only receive modest temporary tax relief? Can you confirm that your office found that the tax bills passed by the House and the Senate would not generate enough economic growth to pay for their $1.4 trillion in tax cuts?  Did the Joint Committee on Taxation in fact find that $1 trillion would be added to the deficit over the next decade for the bill that passed each chamber? Can you confirm that under the statutory Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) Act, the budgetary effects of the Republican tax package, which would raise deficits by up to $1.5 trillion over 10 years, would go onto the statutory PAYGO scorecards and be subject to sequestration procedures, including automatic cuts in Medicare and other, non-exempt mandatory spending? Can you confirm, the Congressional Budget Office has estimated that enacting the Republican tax package would result in a sequestration order under statutory PAYGO of up to $136 billion in 2018 alone, resulting in $25 billion of cuts to Medicare and tens of billions of dollars in cuts to other programs? Can you confirm that the size of the cuts to programs other than Medicare would mean the zeroing out of remaining funding in 2018 for entire programs, including the Crime Victims Fund, the Social Services Block Grant, and the Public Health and Prevention Fund? Can you confirm the distribution of the cuts from these programs would disproportionately hit middle- and lower-income families?    When will the Joint Committee on Taxation’s score and analysis on the bill that Republicans are negotiating in this conference (without the input of the Democrats on this Conference Committee) be available?  Thank you in advance for your prompt attention to this matter.  I would appreciate your responses at your earliest convenience, especially considering that we may be voting as early as next week on yet another tax bill that we have not seen and do not have sufficient time to study.  If you have any questions, or would like to further discuss compliance with this request, please contact Kendra Isaacson or Zach Mallove on my staff at (202) 224-6572 or (202) 224-1464, respectively. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=93B97698-5875-41EF-9FB6-6A58C6E1A308,"Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Murray and Cantwell Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision",2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"FCC Chairman Pai is proposing to roll back net neutrality rules without any apparent consideration of impact on our nation’s students  Schools in low-income and rural areas relying on high-speed internet to help kids learn could be hit especially hard by FCC decision  Senators are concerned rolling back net neutrality could exacerbate education inequity and increase digital divide Senators: “From early childhood education through higher education and workforce training, students need access to high-speed internet in order to learn and make the most of their educational experience "" (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate education committee, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and 20 U.S. Senators sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai urging him to consider how a free, fair and open internet provides our nation’s students with opportunities to learn and succeed. Senators requested Chairman Pai delay the proposed vote to undo net neutrality until he specifically addresses the impacts on students and schools—specifically those in rural or low-income communities, as well as how it will address education equity and the digital divide. “By overturning the Commission’s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation’s students and schools—especially those in rural and low-income communities,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order’s impact on our nation’s students and their ability to learn.” Allowing internet service providers to limit access and increase costs could increase the digital divide for students in rural and low-income areas, where their only access to the internet may be at a resource-constrained school or a public library. This decision could also hinder teachers’ and students’ ability to access educational materials from around the globe and make it more difficult for students with disabilities and English learners to receive a high-quality education. On December 14, the Commission is expected to vote along party lines in favor of Chairman Pai’s proposal, which will roll back the FCC’s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization and will give more power to internet service providers (ISPs). In addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Al Franken (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). Full text of letter below and PDF HERE.   December 12, 2017   The Honorable Ajit Pai Chairman Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street Southwest Washington, DC 20554   Dear Chairman Pai: We write today regarding your draft order—the Restoring Internet Freedom Order (“the Draft Order”) —and its potential impacts on students, schools, and institutions of higher education. By overturning the Commission’s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation’s students and schools—especially those in rural and low-income communities. We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order’s impact on our nation’s students and their ability to learn. In the past four years, P-12 schools have made enormous strides in improving access to high-speed connectivity for all students. In 2013, 40 million students were in schools not meeting the 100 kbps per student threshold. By 2017, only 6.5 million students were in schools not meeting this goal—narrowing this gap by 84 percent.[1] From early childhood education through higher education and workforce training, students need access to high-speed internet in order to learn and make the most of their educational experience. The Draft Order runs counter to our national goal of affordable, high-speed internet for all students. By rolling back the FCC’s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization, the Draft Order could lead to a tiered and compartmentalized internet, and whose characteristic openness is limited to those students, schools, and institutions who can afford it. Beyond that, the Draft Order threatens to impede innovation that has taken place within the educational sphere, including when it comes to access to high-quality online coursework. Our nation’s P-12 education system increasingly relies on an open internet to improve equity and access to high-quality content and instruction. Teachers depend on the internet to collaborate with colleagues and to access educational materials from around the globe. Entrepreneurs and educators alike have been able to develop high-quality educational technologies that support state standards and equip schools and teachers to personalize instruction. These technologies, which include educational apps and online coursework, help students learn valuable research and internet safety skills, and expand access to a high-quality education for students with disabilities and English learners. By allowing ISPs to limit access and increase costs, the Draft Order could threaten educational equity and exacerbate the digital divide.  Rural schools could be particularly harmed by the potential effects of the Draft Order. One recent analysis shows that the 77 percent of the schools that lack high-speed fiber connections are in rural communities.[2] Despite the Draft Order’s claim that the Commission’s current rules have stifled investment in internet infrastructure and rural communities, independent studies have found that such investments by ISPs have largely remained stable[3] and in some cases have increased in underserved areas.[4] The Draft Order would neither protect fiscally-strapped schools and school districts from aggressive ISP pricing practices, nor would it guarantee any additional investment in underserved areas. Institutions of higher education rely on an open internet to carry out both their educational and research missions. For instance, online coursework has grown significantly over the past decade: as of the fall of 2015, more than 6 million students enrolled in at least one online course, representing about 30 percent of enrollments, compared to less than 10 percent in the fall of 2002.[5] Should the Draft Order be adopted, video lectures and online learning resources that are essential to institutions of higher education may be rendered unavailable by ISPs that decide to block them or otherwise privilege a competing resource. Additionally, basic research, which today more than ever relies upon frequent exchange of massive data sets online, could be severely impacted by a tiered and tolled internet. The Association of Research Libraries has stated that “if our institutions had to pay a fee in order to access these connections or download these digital files, it wouldn't happen.”[6] Resource-constrained public institutions of higher education, the biggest users of online coursework, which remain funded nearly $9 billion below their per-student levels before the Great Recession, would particularly feel these constraints.[7] The Draft Order may also disproportionately impact students whose only adequate connection to the internet is the one inside their classroom. Even in 2017, far too many students lack access to a reliable, high-speed internet connection outside their classrooms—at home or off-campus. According to a 2015 Pew Research Center analysis, approximately 5 million households with school-age children did not have high-speed internet at home.[8] This analysis found that households with annual incomes under $50,000 were more than three times as likely to lack a high-speed connection than those with incomes over $50,000; nearly 40 percent of households with annual incomes under $25,000—165 percent of full-time federal minimum wage[9]—did not have a high-speed connection.[10] Coupled with the Commission’s recent modifications to the Lifeline program and proposed changes to the critical Universal Service Fund’s Schools and Libraries Program (“E-Rate”) program, implementation of the Draft Order could further deepen the “digital divide,” effectively limiting or outright denying internet access to the students who need it most. In summary, we are deeply concerned about the Draft Order’s impact on our nation’s education system. Subsequently, we ask that you delay your planned vote to roll back net neutrality and forever change the landscape of the internet until you can satisfactorily answer the following questions: The Draft Order fails to make a single mention of ‘student’ or ‘students’ in its 210 pages; to what extent did the Commission contemplate the Draft Order’s impact on students and the programs, schools, and institutions of higher education that they attend? What tangible and enforceable guarantees does the Draft Order provide for schools and institutions of higher education in rural areas, which face substantial barriers to accessing a high-speed internet connection? What evidence does the Commission have that the Draft Order will provide superior connectivity over the regulatory regime currently in place? How will the Draft Order affect the E-Rate program, including the progress made in such program since the 2014 modernization order? Paragraph 256 of the Draft Order “reject[s] the contrary argument ISPs will engage in ‘virtual redlining’ because, as discussed, paid prioritization is likely to lead to increased network investment and lower costs to end users, particularly benefitting those on the wrong side of the digital divide.”[11] What steps will the Commission take to ensure that ISPs do not engage in such behavior and that issues associated with the “digital divide” and the “homework gap” are not being actively exacerbated by the regulatory framework envisioned by the Draft Order? We thank you for your consideration of these pressing issues. We look forward to your swift and detailed response. [7] Allen, I. Elaine, Ph.D., and Jeff Seaman, Ph.D. ""Distance Education Enrollment Report 2017."" May 2017. https://onlinelearningsurvey.com/reports/digtiallearningcompassenrollment2017.pdf, 4. Mitchell, Michael, Michael Leachman, and Kathleen Masterson. ""A Lost Decade in Higher Education Funding."" August 23, 2017. https://www.cbpp.org/sites/default/files/atoms/files/2017_higher_ed_8-22-17_final.pdf, 2.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=B8FD83ED-2464-4C05-AADF-CB517608728A,Senator Murrays Statement on First Conference Committee Meeting,2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"""Thank you Chairmen Brady and Hatch, Ranking Members Neal and Wyden, and all of my colleagues on this conference committee. ""Honestly, I’m not even sure why we are here today. ""This has been a sham partisan process—a brazen partisan attempt to jam through legislation that would devastate our economy with as little scrutiny or debate as possible—and this dog-and-pony show of regular order today isn’t fooling anyone.  ""Because let’s be very clear about what this tax plan would do—it’s pretty simple. ""The Republican tax plan would be a massive giveaway to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations. ""It would raise taxes on the middle class. ""It would increase health premiums for millions of patients. ""It would open up the pristine Arctic Refuge to drilling. ""It would blast a massive hole in our deficit—and put Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security in grave danger. ""And that’s just the start to the list of damages this horrific plan would do to families and the economy—I could go on and on.  ""But I want to spend just a minute focusing on one aspect of this Republican tax plan—the truly devastating health care change that would raise families’ premiums, cause millions of people to lose coverage, and create even more chaos and instability in health care markets.  ""Now, people have rejected every single Republican attempt to undermine their health care this year. So it’s worth asking—why are Republicans doing this again? ""The answer is simple: Republicans wanted to spend the savings from taking away millions of people’s health care on tax cuts for those at the top. ""Here is what will happen if this is jammed through, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office: Premiums will be ten percent higher each year, thirteen million people will lose coverage, and markets will get even more unstable—which experts have said could cause some communities to lose coverage options. ""And I want to be very clear: none of the bipartisan legislation being discussed would fix that. ""The health care stabilization bill I worked on with Chairman Alexander and Senator Collins’ reinsurance bill are both good bills that would help push back against President Trump’s sabotage of health care—but they won’t stop the premium increases, coverage losses, and chaos that the Republican tax bill would cause—and that’s assuming they could even pass through the Republican House. ""So I urge my Republican colleagues to take a step back here—and stop this sham process while they still have a chance. ""Tax reform is an area where we can find bipartisan consensus—where we can work together to help the middle class and call on the wealthy to pay their fair share. ""This plan doesn’t do that—it does the opposite—but Democrats are at the table and ready to get to work if Republicans listen to their constituents, reverse course, and set aside this devastating plan. ""Thank you.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-plan-securing-overtime-for-shipyard-workers-on-assignment-to-japan-signed-into-law,Kilmer Plan Securing Overtime for Shipyard Workers on Assignment to Japan Signed into Law,2017-12-12,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.17 Kilmer Plan Securing Overtime for Shipyard Workers on Assignment to Japan Signed into Law WASHINGTON, DC—Overtime for shipyard workers on assignment overseas will continue to be paid through September 30, 2019 thanks to an extension secured by Representative Derek Kilmer. The congressman worked to secure the extension as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed into law today. “Our shipyard workers go all out for the country no matter where the job takes them. If they work overtime, they deserve to be paid overtime no matter where they’re clocked in,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. “I have their back, and I’m glad the country does too.” The NDAA also included a 2.4 percent raise for military service members, one of the largest raises in eight years. The raise was included in the annual defense bill, HR 2810, which authorizes funding for the military in fiscal year 2018 The NDAA was signed into law today by President Donald Trump. The NDAA directs the Department of Defense on how to spend its money for the next fiscal year, but Congress still needs to pass an appropriations bill to fund these programs. Congress must pass that legislation before December 22nd, when the government’s current spending bill is set to expire. “I urge Congress to work together to pass a long-term budget and spending bill that funds the military and all of the other important things our government invests in before the end of the year,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. In addition to the pay raise and Kilmer’s overtime provision, the bill authorizes, among other things, investments in 13 new Navy ships, and $6 billion to in additional funds to be used for a missile defense program that is designed to counter North Korea, and to fix the destroyers USS Fitzgerald and USS John McCain, which were damaged earlier this year when they collided with ships in the Pacific in two separate incidents. The collisions have been viewed by some as a consequence of the deep cuts to the military’s budget caused by sequestration. Without a long-term budget the Navy cannot develop a plan to regularly train sailors. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2236,"President Signs DelBene, Herrera Beutlers Fix for Child Abuse Survivors Into Law",2017-12-12,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Trump today signed into law the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2018, which included part of Congresswomen Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Jaime Herrera Beutler’s (WA-03) Child Abuse Accountability Enhancement Act (H.R. 1103), closing a legal loophole that denies justice for some survivors of child abuse. “Anyone who falls victim to physical, sexual or emotional violence — particularly children — deserves the opportunity to seek justice, regardless of who abused them,” DelBene said. “And while we took an important step in closing this loophole to ensure some justice for all survivors of these vile and horrific abuses, I will not stop fighting until convicted child abusers – no matter who they are or who they worked for – pay the full restitution owed.” “I can’t imagine the crippling trauma survivors of child abuse must endure. The least we can do for them is ensure the law is on their side and that they have the right to seek justice from their perpetrators,” said Herrera Beutler. “I recognize there is still tremendous work to be done in advocating for survivors, but having this bill signed into law today marks a significant milestone.” DelBene heard firsthand from survivor Pennie Saum, who as a child suffered abuses at the hands of her father, an Army veteran. Her father was convicted and sentenced to 17 years in prison, and Pennie and her brother were awarded a civil judgment for $5 million in damages. However, because their father’s primary source of income is military retirement pay, he was shielded from paying a cent of the restitution he owes his children. Because of DelBene’s efforts, now 25 percent of offenders’ wages can be garnished for restitution, but she will keep fighting until survivors of military child abuse receive full equality and justice under the law, just as other survivors abused by federal employees currently receive. “Words cannot express how happy I am to see part of the Child Abuse Accountability Enhancement Act become law. It’s been a long road. It’s time that military retirees who abuse children be held accountable for their actions. Survivors of child sexual abuse, like myself, deserve to have their needs met after such horrific crimes, no matter what their abuser did for a living,” Saum said. “I will continue to fight for support and improvements to this law to assure survivors receive the restitution that they are owed and that abusers, no matter what career they had are held accountable for their actions.” DelBene’s bipartisan bill, which was introduced in February, closes a loophole in federal law that shields convicted child abusers from paying the restitution they owe, if their income comes from the Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) — the agency responsible for military retirement pay. While Congress unanimously approved a law in 1994 allowing child abuse survivors to receive garnishment from most federal retirees’ pay, it inadvertently excluded military retirees, whose pay is not disbursed by the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). During NDAA negotiations, the U.S. Department of Defense insisted on capping the garnishment of survivors like Saum. Next year, DelBene will once again work with members of the House Armed Services Committee, such as Congressman Rick Larsen (WA-02), to include all of the Child Abuse Accountability Enhancement Act in the defense spending bill. More than 58,000 children in the United States are sexually abused each year, while nearly 120,000 children become victims of physical abuse, according to the Department of Health and Human Services’ National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-bipartisan-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-further-understand-and-promote-development-of-artificial-intelligence-drive-economic-opportunity,"Cantwell, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Bill to Further Understand and Promote Development of Artificial Intelligence, Drive Economic Opportunity",2017-12-12,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.17 Cantwell, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Bill to Further Understand and Promote Development of Artificial Intelligence, Drive Economic Opportunity Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Todd Young (R-IN), and Ed Markey (D-MA), along with Representatives John K. Delaney (D-MD) and Pete Olson (R-TX), introduced first-of-its-kind legislation that would promote an enabling environment for the continued development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The forward-looking bill, known as the Fundamentally Understanding the Usability and Realistic Evolution of Artificial Intelligence Act of 2017 – or FUTURE of AI Act – establishes a federal advisory committee to examine and wrestle with the economic opportunities and impacts emerging AI technologies will have in many aspects of American life. AI technologies are evolving in capability and application at a rapid clip. Yet, the United States currently has no federal policy towards AI and no part of the federal government has ownership of the advancement of this technology. “We expect that artificial intelligence will be an incredibly transformative force for growth and productivity.  We need to be ready for it,” said Senator Cantwell. “Artificial Intelligence has the ability to drastically boost our economy,” said Senator Young. “As Americans continue to interact with this technology every day, and as its capabilities expand, it’s important that we study and prepare for AI’s continued use in our society.” “While artificial intelligence holds the promise of providing goods and services more efficiently and effectively, increased automation has potentially broad negative impacts on our workforce and our privacy,” said Senator Edward J. Markey. “This bill serves as an important step in bringing together all stakeholders to better understand how this new technology will impact our lives. I thank Senators Cantwell and Young, as well as Representatives Delaney and Olson, for their partnership on this important bipartisan issue.”  “It’s time to get proactive on artificial intelligence,” said Congressman Delaney, co-chair of the House AI Caucus. “AI is going to reshape our economy the way the steam engine, the transistor or the personal computer did and as a former entrepreneur, I believe the impact will be positive overall. Big disruptions also create new policy needs and we should start working now so that AI is harnessed in a way that society benefits, that businesses benefit and that workers benefit. This bill starts the process, by bringing together experts and policymakers. As co-chairs of the AI Caucus, Rep. Olson and I are shining a spotlight on these issues and this bipartisan bill makes sure that both Congress and the Executive Branch get engaged on this topic. I thank Senator Cantwell, Senator Young and Senator Markey for their leadership in the Senate.” Rep. Pete Olson said, “Artificial Intelligence has the power to truly transform our society, and as policymakers, we must be forward thinking about its applications. The AI Advisory committee will help ensure that the federal government enables growth and advancement in this exciting field, while empowering Congress to address potential AI issues going forward. I thank my AI Caucus Co-Chair John Delaney and our Senate colleagues for this collaborative effort and look forward to moving this bill forward.” The FUTURE of AI Act names the Department of Commerce responsible for leading government policy on artificial intelligence and directs the Department to create an advisory committee tasked with submitting recommendations within 18 months on how the government and business can work together to address concerns in four key areas: Potential growth, restructuring, and other changes for the U.S. workforce that result from adoption of AI, including potential actions to train and skill workers for an AI workplace Protecting the privacy rights of individuals as AI continues to grow Promoting a climate of innovation to ensure global competitiveness for American companies developing AI technologies Supporting the development and application of unbiased AI The AI advisory committee will pull from a wide array of sectors and perspectives. The committee will be comprised of civil liberties groups, labor groups, research institutions and universities, technology companies, the manufacturing sector, data scientists, and federal agency officials, among others. ""This is a very thoughtful and timely bill. Gaining the expertise to make wise and inclusive policy around artificial intelligence is absolutely critical. I applaud Senator Cantwell and her co-sponsors for their leadership,” said Ryan Calo, an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Law and the faculty co-director of the University of Washington Tech Policy Lab. The section-by-section of the bill can be found HERE. The full text of the bill can be found HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=1AF838BC-922C-44B2-BFD1-299D49A89896,"Senator Murray's Statement on Alabama Election Results: ""A Moment of Reflection for Republicans"" as Voters ""Loudly Reject"" Moore, President Trump",2017-12-12,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"""I’m pleased, and so relieved, to welcome Doug Jones to the Senate—where I believe he’ll have so much to contribute as we fight to grow the economy and increase opportunities for workers and middle class families across the country. ""Tonight, people across Alabama stood up and loudly rejected one of the most troubling and unfit candidates for Senate that I can recall—and they just as loudly rejected efforts by President Trump and Republicans to put this person in office in spite of not only his deeply harmful and backwards beliefs, but the many women who have come forward with horrifying stories about how he assaulted them as children and teenagers. ""I hope tonight's results are a moment of reflection for Republicans. A man who wasn’t allowed in a shopping mall because he was harassing young girls should not have even come close to representing families on the Senate floor. It’s well past time for Republicans to start listening to women across the country and consider who they are standing with and who they are willing to support in the name of partisan politics and power. ""And finally, I am hoping that Republican leaders accept the will of the people of Alabama and halt their attempt to jam through massive tax cuts for the rich until Senator-elect Jones is seated.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A5B47E73-1171-42DE-A978-DF2086BB563A,"In Rallying Call to Advocates, Senator Murray Highlights Urgent Need for Critical Investments in Child Care, Early Learning",2017-12-12,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"On the heels of new national report on rising child care costs, Senator Murray highlights her bill that would improve access to high-quality, affordable child care and early learning New Report: Child care has become more unaffordable in the past year; represents one of the most significant budget items for families. ICYMI: Senator Murray introduces bold, comprehensive child care and early learning bill to bring down costs of child care in Washington state and across the country Seattle Times: “Sen. Patty Murray wants to fix what experts call ‘enormous inequalities’ in child care” (Washington, D.C.) –  Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee, underlined the urgent need for increased investments in child care and early learning programs for low-income and middle class families, following the release of a new report highlighting the national trend of rising costs for child care. According to the new report from Child Care Aware® of America, child care has become more unaffordable in the past year, forcing many parents to pay more than they can afford for child care. In Washington state, the report found that single parents pay over half of their income for infant center care and over 90 percent of their income for center care for two children; the report also found that the annual cost of infant care in a center in Washington state was $13,742, more than the cost of tuition and fees at an in-state public college. Speaking to hundreds of child care and early learning advocates during a briefing on the new report, Senator Murray outlined the current child care crisis in Washington state and nationwide, and urged participants to continue pushing for increased federal investments to make child care more affordable and higher quality for working families. In her remarks, Senator Murray also provided an update on her bill, the Child Care for Working Families Act, that would help working families afford child care, expand access to high-quality preschool for low-income and middle class families, and improve compensation and training for the child care workforce. Last October, Senator Murray unveiled the bill in Washington state and toured child care centers in Redmond, Tacoma, and Sequim to meet with parents, teachers, child care practitioners, and advocates about the challenges Washington state families face trying to access high-quality child care and early learning.   Full text of Senator Murray’s remarks: First I want to thank you all for your work fighting for high-quality affordable early learning and care in your communities and on a national level. I also want to thank Child Care Aware for releasing their report… …highlighting the child care crisis we are facing in our country, and what steps we should be taking to ensure no family has to pay more than they can afford on high-quality early learning and care. As many of you know, I got my start in public service advocating for my own children’s early childhood education back in Washington state. When my kids were very young, the State legislature wanted to shut down their preschool through budget cuts. So I bundled my kids in the car and drove 100 miles down to Olympia to explain to my legislators why this preschool program was important—and why it was worth saving. But as I was making my case to a state Senator, he told me I couldn’t make a different because I was “just a mom in tennis shoes.” I was a mom in tennis shoes—but I knew that shouldn’t stop me from being able to make a difference. It wasn’t easy—just like the work you do isn’t easy—but I called my friends, who called their friends… And after months of showing up at the state legislature and making our voices heard, we were able to convince state legislators this program was worth saving. I went on to teach at that school—and just like all of you—I understand how important high-quality preschool and child care is for our youngest learners. When kids don’t have access to quality early learning and care programs, it can impact them throughout their lives… And it can have consequences for working families, the middle class, and for our economy. The skyrocketing costs of child care today are forcing some parents to pay more than they make… And others are even being forced to quit their jobs. Everyone on this call knows there are steps we can—and need—to take to address these critical issues and start building an economy that works for all families. So I was proud to work with all of you and Representative Scott to introduce the Child Care for Working Families Act earlier this year to start investing in our families, our teachers, and our youngest generation. Our plan would take on the rising costs of child care by making sure parents don’t have to pay more than they can afford for quality care, increase access to high-quality preschool programs for low- and middle-income families, and support our nation’s child care workforce with higher pay and better training—so that they can help themselves and our next generation thrive. And shortly after introducing our bill, I had the opportunity to travel around my home state of Washington, in coordination with Child Care Aware of Washington, to hear from parents, teachers, and center directors on the challenges unique to their communities… …and what we can be doing to support their needs. I also saw the importance of ensuring parents are informed about their child care options through state and local child care resource and referral agencies.  The work you do is so important, but we know it’s going to take significantly more resources to build a sustainable child care system that works for families and local communities. It’s going to be a tough road to get this done, especially as we are seeing so many threats to middle class families. But if we don’t keep talking about these issues and fighting for what we believe in, we’re never going to get there. And so I am asking you to keep up the good work fighting for children and families at the state, local, and the federal levels. We need your voices to move this issue forward… And to show there are parents, teachers, and advocates on the ground who believe investing in our next generation is one of the smartest things we can do. I will continue to be your partner and to advocate for improvements and investments for child care and early learning programs in Congress. Thank you all again for your hard work.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=C0E2A6E5-240E-45D8-8090-A564FD78CF87,"Citing Trump Administrations Health Care Sabotage, Senator Murray Calls for Extended Open Enrollment Period",2017-12-12,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Murray urges HHS, CMS to allow consumers to buy health care through January 2018 Request from Senator Murray follows months of sabotage by the Trump Administration, record level of sign-ups early in the enrollment period ICYMI: As millions of people shop for health coverage, Senator Murray leads bipartisan group of senators in calling for vote on Murray-Alexander health care bill; urges Republican leaders to “put patients over politics” (Washington, D.C.) – Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, today sent a letter to Acting Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Eric Hargan and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma urging the Trump Administration to extend open enrollment for the individual insurance market from December 15 until January 31, 2018 to give patients and families in Washington state and nationwide more time to purchase health insurance. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), the ranking member on the Senate Finance Committee, joined Senator Murray in the letter. “The Administration’s decision to depart from years of agency policy by ending open enrollment on December 15th is compounded by the many other efforts by this administration to destabilize the insurance market, making it likely that many consumers miss this deadline and forgo insurance next year—all despite clear indications that consumers are highly interested in seeking coverage for 2018,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to immediately extend open enrollment and to engage in concerted outreach and assistance efforts that help potential consumers obtain coverage.”  Senator Murray has repeatedly urged the Trump Administration to stop sabotaging families’ health care and instead work to improve care, bring down costs, and return stability to the markets. By shortening the open enrollment period, drastically cutting consumer outreach and navigator funding, and ending cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments, among other actions, the Trump Administration has undermined the individual insurance market that millions of people count on for health care. Open enrollment in Washington state ends on January 15, 2018. For more information, visit wahealthplanfinder.org. The full letter can be found here and below. The Honorable Eric D. Hargan Acting Secretary U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20201   The Honorable Seema Verma Administrator Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 7500 Security Boulevard Baltimore, MD, 21244   Dear Acting Secretary Hargan and Administrator Verma, We write to urge the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to extend Open Enrollment to the Health Insurance Marketplaces to January 31, 2018 to ensure that all potential consumers have a full and adequate opportunity to shop for and enroll in health insurance that meets their families’ needs. The Administration’s decision to depart from years of agency policy by ending Open Enrollment on December 15th is compounded by the many other efforts by this Administration to destabilize the insurance market, making it likely that many consumers miss this deadline and forgo insurance next year—all despite clear indications that consumers are highly interested in seeking coverage for 2018. This shortened Open Enrollment period also leaves consumers currently enrolled in coverage without an opportunity to switch plans after being automatically enrolled, even though these plans may no longer be the best choice for their families. Given the Administration’s decisions to dramatically roll back outreach efforts, cut Navigator funding, and halt cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments, which had far-reaching implications on the cost of coverage, providing interested consumers with enough time to learn about and find coverage in the Marketplaces is more critical than ever.  The Marketplaces help consumers compare and obtain comprehensive and affordable private insurance subject to robust consumer protections. The Marketplaces also allow consumers to determine their eligibility for financial assistance programs, which today help over 80 percent of those enrolled afford premiums and out-of-pocket costs. During Open Enrollment for the 2017 plan year, approximately 12.2 million consumers selected or automatically re-enrolled in health insurance, 10 million of whom received financial assistance and three million of whom were new to the Marketplaces. The Marketplaces also provide critical tools for those previously enrolled to shop around and ensure their insurance plans continue to meet their needs. During previous Open Enrollment periods, consumers who were automatically re-enrolled on December 16th had an additional six weeks to change plans if the plan in which they were automatically enrolled no longer provided the greatest benefit to their families. This year, steps taken by the Administration have changed the coverage landscape dramatically, making it more likely that consumers are automatically re-enrolled in plans that differ from their previous year’s coverage. Moreover, the Administration’s decision to stop paying CSRs induced market distortions that may make choosing the right plan even harder for working families, since gold coverage is now cheaper than silver coverage in many parts of the country. Consumers deserve at least the same amount of time as in previous years to make this significant choice about their families’ health coverage. Adding insult to injury, this Administration decided to slash funding for consumer outreach and assistance, even though these efforts are critical to helping families understand their changing coverage options. For 2018 Open Enrollment, HHS announced it would radically cut outreach funding by 90 percent and roll back over 40 percent of funds for the Navigator program. Since the beginning of the Open Enrollment period, HHS has done virtually nothing to promote enrollment and notify consumers about this severe cut to Open Enrollment’s timeline or the vast differences from the previous year’s plan offerings. Despite the Administration’s efforts, consumers have made clear their demand for affordable, comprehensive coverage. On a week-by-week basis, sign-ups for coverage through HealthCare.gov are up over 22 percent from where they were at this point last year. As a percentage of the total open enrollment period remaining, however, millions fewer consumers have signed up for plans. By cutting Open Enrollment to just six weeks, HHS has left consumers with less time to shop for coverage, sign up for plans, and obtain needed financial assistance, all of which may result in substantially fewer people with coverage. Enrollment has continued through January for four years, so many consumers may miss the upcoming December deadline—especially given HHS’s failure to engage in consumer outreach and education. In fact, estimates suggest that ending Open Enrollment this week will cause over one million fewer individuals to find coverage for next year. Prematurely closing enrollment may be particularly devastating for consumers with pre-existing conditions who rely on insurance to afford the services they need. This truncated enrollment window could force those with pre-existing conditions to decide between forgoing treatment and taking on crippling medical debt. Further, by shortening the window and potentially failing to capture younger and healthier consumers who in past years enrolled at the end of Open Enrollment, those who obtain or renew coverage by December 15th may face higher costs as a result of an older and sicker population in the Marketplaces. Thus, ending Open Enrollment this week threatens to limit enrollment and drive up the cost of coverage. Ensuring consumers have the opportunity to find the coverage they need is essential to protecting the health and financial security of families across the country. We urge you to immediately extend Open Enrollment and to engage in concerted outreach and assistance efforts that help potential consumers obtain coverage. To do otherwise poses further risks to the continued stability of the individual marketplace and jeopardizes access to affordable, comprehensive insurance for all.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-kilmer-kustoff-pass-bill-to-protect-religious-institutions,"Reps. Kilmer, Kustoff Pass Bill to Protect Religious Institutions",2017-12-11,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.17 Reps. Kilmer, Kustoff Pass Bill to Protect Religious Institutions Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and David Kustoff (R-TN) today applauded House passage of their bill, the Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act of 2017. This strong bipartisan legislation will increase the federal penalties for bomb threats and other credible threats of violence against religious institutions. Congressman Derek Kilmer (D-WA): “Across our country, too many people have been subjected to hate, violence and threats because of the religion they practice. People who have come to a religious community center to take a class, exercise or support their neighbors have faced bomb threats and violence. With this bill, our government is saying with one voice: ‘Enough is enough.’” Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN): “The dramatic rise in threats against religious institutions is deeply disturbing and makes it clear that existing federal laws do not suitably deter these acts of hate. We must stand united against acts of hate and protect the rights of all Americans to worship freely and without fear. I am proud that our bipartisan bill today passed in the House. I look forward to the Senate’s consideration, so we can send this important legislation to President Trump’s desk.” Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA): “Freedom in the exercise of religion is a fundamental right that our founding fathers chose to place as the first recognized right in our Bill of Rights. It is as important to protect these rights today.  Sadly, we have witnessed many threats and acts of violence against religious institutions and centers and we must ensure our laws appropriately punish those seeking to intimidate people of faith. The Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act strengthens prosecutorial tools to deter acts of hate and violence toward religious institutions so that freedom of religion continues to flourish in America. I thank Congressman Kustoff for his hard work on this bipartisan bill and applaud the House for quickly passing it.” William Daroff, the Senior Vice President for Public Policy and Director of the Washington Office of the Jewish Federations of North America said: “The Jewish Federations of North America applauds Congress for passing the Combating Anti-Semitism Act of 2017 (H.R. 1730). The rise of anti-Semitism is an existential threat to the Jewish community and this trend is not abating. We are grateful to Representatives David Kustoff and Derek Kilmer for their bi-partisan leadership in sponsoring this legislation, which will help to deter the wave of threats targeting Jewish Community Centers and other religious institutions across the country, and to stand united against religious intolerance.”   In 2017 alone, more than 160 bomb threats and other threats of violence have been made against Jewish Community Centers (JCCs) across America. In addition to the fear and terror inflicted upon these religious institutions after a threat, there are tangible ramifications for the centers. Many places of worship are forced to temporarily close their doors as a result of these threats, and families who rely on the center’s services, such as school and early-childhood education programs, have been forced to choose between their safety and their faith community.  This bipartisan legislation would amend the Church Arson Prevention Act (18 U.S.C. § 247) to ensure that individuals who make bomb threats and other credible threats of violence against community religious centers –based on the religious nature of that center will now carry a penalty of up to 3 years of imprisonment if any violations of the statute results in the damage or destruction to religious property. The Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act of 2017 has broad, bipartisan support and was originally co-sponsored by U.S. Representatives Ted Poe (R-TX), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Joseph P. Kennedy, III (D-MA). The bill was cosponsored by an additional 40 bipartisan members.  Click here for bill text. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2235,"Cantwell, DelBene to FCC Chairman: Abandon Your Ill-Conceived & Rash Plan to Dismantle the Strong and Robust Net Neutrality Rules",2017-12-09,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,,,legacy,"SEATTLE – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) sent a letter to Federal Communications Commissioner Ajit Pai urging him to do his job and drop his misguided attempt at repealing net neutrality rules. “Undoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC’s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks,” said Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene. “The future of the internet is at risk. The FCC’s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.” Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene are particularly concerned about how Washington’s economy will be affected if Pai follows through on his goals to shackle the free and open internet. A quarter of a million jobs and 13 percent of the state’s economy are dependent on a robust, vibrant Internet economy.  More than 400,000 Washingtonians, recognizing the importance of net neutrality to Washington state’s economy, have filed comments with the FCC concerning the plan. “Weakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. On behalf of all Washingtonians and consumers and innovators that rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office,” the members of Congress continued. Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene issued their appeal with tech leaders at Seattle’s Galvanize, a Seattle coworking space featuring a mix of entrepreneurs, programmers, data scientists, and others who thrive on the free and open internet. Net neutrality protections make sure we have an open and free internet and prohibit cable companies and service providers from slowing down or blocking content, applications or websites. The full letter to Chairman Pai is below: Dear Chairman Pai: We write to urge you to abandon your ill-conceived and rash plan to dismantle the strong and robust net neutrality rules that have fueled the growth of our $1 trillion internet economy. The internet economy is now over 7% of US GDP and employs almost 7 million people. Moreover, the internet economy has grown faster than any other sector in the U.S., having boosted employment while many other industries in the U.S. were shedding jobs in the last economic downturn. It is undisputed that our strong, robust open internet drove this tremendous economic growth. The mission of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is to promote the use and deployment of communications in the public interest, and the job of the FCC Chairman is to make sure that mission is being carried out. Undoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC’s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks. Weakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. The internet economy is responsible for 13% of Washington state’s economic output. A quarter of a million jobs in Washington state depend on the continued good health and vibrancy of our internet economy. The “App Economy,” which consists of everybody who makes money and has a job thanks to mobile apps powered by an open internet, is another example of the power of the internet economy made possible by the existing net neutrality rules. Today, 1.7 million Americans have jobs because of the App Economy.  Nearly 92,000 of those jobs are in Washington state. The FCC’s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.  On behalf of all Washingtonians and the consumers and innovators who rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office. Sincerely, Senator Maria Cantwell Congresswoman Suzan DelBene ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-delbene-to-fcc-chairman-abandon-your-ill-conceived-and-rash-plan-to-dismantle-the-strong-and-robust-net-neutrality-rules-,"Cantwell, DelBene to FCC Chairman: “Abandon Your Ill-Conceived & Rash Plan to Dismantle the Strong and Robust Net Neutrality Rules”",2017-12-09,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.09.17 Cantwell, DelBene to FCC Chairman: “Abandon Your Ill-Conceived & Rash Plan to Dismantle the Strong and Robust Net Neutrality Rules” In Seattle, Cantwell and DelBene announce their latest push to save the free and open internet with tech leaders Seattle, WA – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) sent a letter to Federal Communications Commissioner Ajit Pai urging him to do his job and drop his misguided attempt at repealing net neutrality rules. “Undoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC’s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks,” said Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene. “The future of the internet is at risk. The FCC’s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.” Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene are particularly concerned about how Washington’s economy will be affected if Pai follows through on his goals to shackle the free and open internet. A quarter of a million jobs and 13% of the state’s economy are dependent on a robust, vibrant Internet economy.  Over 400,000 Washingtonians, recognizing the importance of net neutrality to Washington state’s economy, have filed comments with the FCC concerning the plan. “Weakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. On behalf of all Washingtonians and consumers and innovators that rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office,” the members of Congress continued. Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene issued their appeal with tech leaders at Seattle’s Galvanize, a Seattle coworking space featuring a mix of entrepreneurs, programmers, data scientists, and others who thrive on the free and open internet. Net neutrality protections make sure we have an open and free internet and prohibit cable companies and service providers from slowing down or blocking content, applications or websites. The full letter to Chairman Pai is below. Dear Chairman Pai: We write to urge you to abandon your ill-conceived and rash plan to dismantle the strong and robust net neutrality rules that have fueled the growth of our $1 trillion internet economy. The internet economy is now over 7% of US GDP and employs almost 7 million people. Moreover, the internet economy has grown faster than any other sector in the U.S., having boosted employment while many other industries in the U.S. were shedding jobs in the last economic downturn. It is undisputed that our strong, robust open internet drove this tremendous economic growth. The mission of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is to promote the use and deployment of communications in the public interest, and the job of the FCC Chairman is to make sure that mission is being carried out. Undoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC’s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks. Weakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. The internet economy is responsible for 13% of Washington state’s economic output. A quarter of a million jobs in Washington state depend on the continued good health and vibrancy of our internet economy. The “App Economy,” which consists of everybody who makes money and has a job thanks to mobile apps powered by an open internet, is another example of the power of the internet economy made possible by the existing net neutrality rules. Today, 1.7 million Americans have jobs because of the App Economy.  Nearly 92,000 of those jobs are in Washington state. The FCC’s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.  On behalf of all Washingtonians and the consumers and innovators who rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office. Sincerely, Senator Maria Cantwell Congresswoman Suzan DelBene   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-washington-national-guard-and-port-angeles-leaders-applaud-faas-decision-to-fully-fund-vital-port-angeles-runway-,"Kilmer, Washington National Guard and Port Angeles Leaders Applaud FAA’s Decision to Fully Fund Vital Port Angeles Runway",2017-12-08,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.17 Kilmer, Washington National Guard and Port Angeles Leaders Applaud FAA’s Decision to Fully Fund Vital Port Angeles Runway PORT ANGELES, Wash.— After listening to the concerns of Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA), the state’s emergency managers, and the Port of Port Angeles’s Commissioners, the Federal Aviation Administration has issued a final decision to continue funding to maintain the current runway at the William R. Fairchild International Airport. The FAA had previously considered reducing this funding, which would have left the Port with two bad options: either reduce the airport’s 5,000-foot runway to 3,850 feet, or pay the bill to maintain the other 1,150 feet using only local funds, a potentially prohibitively-expensive cost. “In rural regions like ours, peace of mind comes by knowing that the government has the infrastructure to get help to us quickly in the event of a disaster. I applaud the FAA for doing the right thing and funding the full runway in Port Angeles,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. “Keeping the runway fully-funded will not only give emergency responders a vital lifeline to our region in an emergency, but also drive economic growth that will sustain skilled jobs in our region.” Port Angeles officials and Rep. Kilmer worked with leaders of the state’s emergency response community to explain to the FAA the unique importance of Fairchild’s runway for both medical emergencies and emergency response. The FAA considered reducing the runway length it was willing to fund using the Airport Improvement Program. The AIP funds the planning and development of public-use airports. According to the Washington Emergency Plan and Federal Emergency Management Agency, Fairchild International Airport is a piece of critical infrastructure vital to the government’s response to wildfires and earthquakes. Port Commission President Colleen McAleer said: “The Port of Port Angeles appreciates the FAA’s decision and the efforts of Congressman Kilmer, who listened to the community and conveyed its concerns. Our airport is vital to the safety and well-being of all county residents and visitors, and we look forward to working with the FAA and Representative Kilmer to protect this important regional asset into the future.”  Major General Bret Daugherty, the Adjutant General and Commander of the Washington National Guard said: ""During a Cascadia Subduction Zone event, the Fairchild Airport in Port Angeles will be a crucial asset.  A five-thousand foot runway at Fairchild will enable large aircraft to bring life-saving supplies and sustainment to the Olympic Peninsula and the communities along the Strait of Juan de Fuca."" Penelope Linterman, an Emergency Management Program Coordinator with the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office said: “the FAA decision to maintain our present runway’s length at five thousand feet continues to allow large aircraft to land and takeoff here and will supply emergency essentials and personnel during a catastrophic disaster. This will save lives by improving the local response time during the event. It will also enable large aircraft traveling from the East or Midwest to land directly in Port Angeles without diverting to Central Washington or to an airport in the I-5 corridor.  That deconflicts the airspace, saves time and allows direct evacuation of a limited number of critically wounded out of the area to receive prompt care.” In addition to raising the issue with the FAA, Rep. Derek Kilmer drafted legislation to reform the Airport Improvement Program to explicitly direct the FAA to consider how downsizing runways would affect the emergency response plan in the region where the airport is located. Kilmer is continuing to pursue a policy remedy that would prevent other rural communities from facing the same hard choices Port Angeles was given, but still gives the FAA the flexibility to determine the most effective use of the Airport Improvement Program’s funding. In the past, FAA officials have told other communities that runways shorter than 5,000 feet are not worth the federal government’s support, meaning Port Angeles could have seen diminished federal support for the airport over time if it couldn’t afford the repairs. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=079566E6-A206-4B0E-985C-6FCF13FD602D,"Ahead of the Start of Negotiations on Republican Tax Plan, Senators Murray and Cantwell Demand Open & Transparent Process",2017-12-08,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In new letter, signed by the seven Senate Democrats named to conference committee, Senators demand at least three public meetings, the opportunity to offer amendments, & complete expert analysis on new bill’s economic impact before conference report is finalized Neither the House Ways and Means Committee nor the Senate Finance Committee held any public hearings regarding the bills that were reported out or debated in their respective chambers – Senate Dems urge GOP to provide more transparency as House & Senate debate final bill  Senate Dems: a bill that would have such an enormous impact on the economy deserves complete analysis, public debate, & an open process (Washington, D.C.) –  In a new letter, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, today joined Senate Democrats who will serve as conferees on the committee to negotiate the GOP’s tax bill to urge their fellow Republican conferees to conduct the conference in an open and transparent manner. The Senators said transparency has been missing from the legislative process thus far, as neither the House Ways and Means Committee nor the Senate Finance Committee have held any public hearings regarding the bills that were ultimately reported out and debated in their respective chambers. The Senators said a bill that would have such an enormous impact on the American economy deserves to see the light of day. The Senators therefore demanded the conference conduct at least three open public meetings, that all members on the committee be given a full opportunity to offer amendments and to secure roll call votes on all amendments, and that a final conference report, including analyses from tax experts at the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), be approved and made public. In addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the Democrats who penned this letter include Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), and Tom Carper (D-DE). A copy of their letter appears below: Dear Fellow Conferees, We write to you regarding our upcoming negotiations and work on H.R. 1, the reconciliation vehicle for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.  We request that the conference be conducted with a level of transparency and consideration commensurate with the enormous scope and implications of this bill, which has been missing from the legislative process thus far.  Specifically, there should be several public conference meetings held in the open, with meaningful opportunity for public input and with the benefit of a complete analysis by Congress's nonpartisan budget experts. Foremost, it is critical that this process and all negotiations be done publicly, in full view of the American people.  Neither the Ways and Means Committee nor the Finance Committee held any public hearings regarding the bills that were ultimately reported out and debated in their respective chambers.  Debating these crucial topics out in the open - rather than behind closed doors - would allow the American people the ability to stay informed about changes to the tax code that will have a significant impact on many facets of their lives.  Specifically, we request that the conference conduct at least three open public meetings, and that all members of the conference be given a full opportunity at such meetings to offer amendments and to secure roll call votes on all amendments, as well as on final approval of the conference report.  It would be outrageous if legislation of this magnitude is again put together in secret, without the public's knowledge or input.  We also believe that before the conference report is finalized, conferees and the public should have a complete analysis of the proposed language from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT).  Such an analysis should include a standard score, so we understand the costs of its provisions and their impact on the budget deficit.  It also should evaluate the legislation's macroeconomic effects, so we know whether there is any truth to claims that the legislation ""pays for itself.""  Additionally, since the Congressional Budget Office already estimated that this legislation would result in tens of millions of patients losing health care coverage and substantial premium increases, the conference should also wait for an analysis of its impact on the health care system.  Finally, the analysis should include a complete description of the bill's distributional effects, including an analysis that illustrates what percentage of taxpayers will see a tax increase or tax decrease and the magnitude of the change.   It is essential that members have a full and non-partisan understanding of the legislation being presented, before any member is compelled to vote on a conference report. Last week, the Senate passed a bill rife with hand-written edits in the margins in the middle of the night.  Predictably, this rush to passage produced mistakes amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars that conferees will now have to fix and may have led to new loopholes ripe for exploitation.  Americans cannot risk their financial futures and our economy to such haphazard and slapdash legislating. We know that many of us disagree about the merits of policies that would lead to tax increases on the middle class, tax breaks for large corporations and the very wealthy, and the despoiling of a pristine wilderness refuge.  But we should all agree that changes of this scale should be done the right way, with a full opportunity for open, public dialogue, and complete information from non-partisan analysts about the bill's effects. Thank you for your consideration of our requests. Sincerely,   U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-DE)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=382A8C81-35FC-465F-8A7D-E4753BD4D559,Senator Murrays Statement on Key Announcement on Columbia River Treaty Negotiations,2017-12-08,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement in response to news that the United States and Canada will begin negotiations in early 2018 to modernize the Columbia River Treaty. “The Columbia River Treaty is of immense importance to the economy, environment, and culture of Washington state and the Pacific Northwest. It is clear the Columbia River Treaty in its current form needs to be updated to meet the modern-day issues facing the Columbia River Basin, the region, and the nation. The outcome of pending negotiations will have major impacts far into the future for families in my home state and beyond. I welcome the news that the United States and Canada will begin negotiations, and I support these critical talks moving forward in an efficient, constructive manner that benefits every party involved.“ To read more about the Columbia River Treaty, please click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=C5D663A9-01F2-46E0-976C-0EE22E890DAE,"VETERANS: In New Letter, Senator Murray Urges VA Secretary to Immediately Clarify Future of Homeless Veteran Program",2017-12-08,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"On December 1st, VA reportedly announced plans to move forward with repurposing essential funds for HUD-VASH program  Prior to this, a bipartisan group of senators had urged VA not to take this step  Senator Murray: By removing these services, VA would endanger “one of the best tools it has in the fight to end veteran homelessness” Senator Murray urges course correction and increased transparency; in absence of either, Senator Murray to seek to restrict VA’s authority to reprogram funding  (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of both the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee, urged Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin to immediately clarify his recent statement regarding plans to strip away essential funds for supportive services for the HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program. Known as HUD-VASH, the program helps veterans across the country by providing housing vouchers that combine rental assistance from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Since 2008, when Senator Murray helped restart HUD-VASH, the program has helped more than 100,000 homeless veterans. “The case management provided by VA is essential to assisting these veterans in navigating the complex housing market and coordinating access to clinical care and employment assistance,” Senator Murray wrote in the letter. “Without the invaluable support provided by VA case managers, many veterans may find themselves forced to sleep on the streets. By removing these services, the Department would gut the capacity and efficacy of one of the best tools it has in the fight to end veteran homelessness.” Senator Murray continued: “If the Department does not immediately fulfill the requests of that letter and begin operating with more transparency, I will seek dramatic restrictions on the authority Congress grants the Department to reprogram its funding in order to ensure the federal government is always acting in the best interests of veterans.” Senator Murray has long been focused on finding legislative solutions to end homelessness among military veterans, which has gotten worse in recent years. for According to a new homeless assessment report from HUD, there are currently more than 40,000 veterans experiencing homelessness in the U.S., and the number of homeless veterans has increased from 2016, the first such increase since 2010. In Washington state, the number of veterans experiencing homelessness has increased 41 percent compared to 2016. After reports surfaced last month that VA was considering reallocating HUD-VASH funds for general purpose use, Senator Murray joined her colleagues on the Senate appropriations subcommittee in a letter to Secretary Shulikn urging him not to move forward with the change in policy. Following up on this request, in her new letter Senator Murray demands that Secretary Shulkin reverse his decision to direct money away from HUD-VASH and to work with Congress to fully fund and implement the program. Read the full letter below or here. December 8, 2017   The Honorable David J. Shulkin, M.D. Secretary of Veterans Affairs 810 Vermont Avenue, Northwest Washington, DC 20420   Dear Secretary Shulkin: I write to you today to express my shock and disappointment at the direction you and your senior team initially chose for repurposing essential funding within the Department of Veterans Affairs (the Department). According to media reports and the statements of participants of a December 1 phone call with the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans, the Department announced a decision to move forward with a proposal that would strip essential funds for supportive services for the HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program, known as HUD-VASH. I also write to ask you to explain the comments you have made regarding that decision and to clarify to all regional Department employees that there is no change in policy. Only a month ago, after first hearing accounts of this impending change, I joined my colleagues on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies in a letter to you expressing our serious concern over the Department’s rumored plan to convert a portion of Specific Purpose funds to General Purpose funds. The members of our Subcommittee urged you not to move forward with this plan until better understanding could be gained as to the intention and consequence of this action. I am gravely concerned that the Department appears not only to have ignored our request, but chose to proceed forward with this harmful plan even as we see the number of homeless veterans in our country rising. Despite the significant strides we have made toward addressing the problem of homelessness amongst veterans, there is still a need to do so much more. On the same day your decision was reported, the release of the 2017 Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress from the Department of Housing and Urban Development showed that the number of homeless veterans has increased from 2016, the first such increase since 2010. This report states that there are currently more than 40,000 veterans experiencing homelessness in our country. In my own home state of Washington, I was extremely troubled to see that there was a 41 percent increase in the number of veterans experiencing homelessness compared to 2016. I ask that you provide me with a comprehensive assessment of the reasons for this increase in my state, especially whether there have been any changes or reductions in Department services for homeless veterans in Washington. In 2008, during my time as the chair of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, I worked to restart the HUD-VASH program because I, like many Americans, know that this country has a responsibility to care for the brave men and women who served our country. Case management and supportive services coordinated and provided by the Department are a vital component of the HUD-VASH program’s success. The more than 100,000 homeless veterans who have been served by this program include some of our nation’s most vulnerable populations, including the chronically ill, mentally ill, and those struggling with substance abuse. Earlier this year, the Trump Administration put this program at risk when it proposed a 13 percent cut to the Department’s partner agency in the program, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, in the President’s budget request. That attempt to undermine HUD-VASH was unacceptable, and this attempt is as well. The case management provided by VA is essential to assisting these veterans in navigating the complex housing market and coordinating access to clinical care and employment assistance. Without the invaluable support provided by VA case managers, many veterans may find themselves forced to sleep on the streets. By removing these services, the Department would gut the capacity and efficacy of one of the best tools it has in the fight to end veteran homelessness. I echo the calls from the Subcommittee’s previous letter that you unequivocally reverse this action as I consider your public statement and assertions in the wake of the public outrage regarding your initial course of action to be perplexing. On December 6, 2017, the Department issued a press release quoting you as saying that “there will be absolutely no change in the funding to support our homeless programs,” which seemed to be a welcome reversal of the change. Yet you continued on to say that homeless program funding will not be shifted to the Choice program, which is language that you have also included in other correspondence. I am unaware of any assertion that Choice was in any way involved with the Department’s initial decision, causing me to question whether this extraneous statement is an attempt to provide the Department flexibility to shift homeless money to non-Choice programs. I trust that is not the case, as such a move would greatly compound the seriousness of the current situation. Moving forward, it is essential that our veterans, Congress, and stakeholders providing veterans with housing and supportive services have a full opportunity to review and provide advice to any Departmental proposal for funding reallocations. I ask again that you provide information on the types of programs designated as “Secretarial priorities” that will receive the five percent funding shift from each VISN.  Additionally, a funding allocation plan should be submitted to the Subcommittee to allow for informed decision making on appropriations for these programs in the future. If the Department does not immediately fulfill the requests of that letter and begin operating with more transparency, I will seek dramatic restrictions on the authority Congress grants the Department to reprogram its funding in order to ensure the federal government is always acting in the best interests of veterans Finally, the haphazard formulation of the now-abandoned policy change, combined with its sudden and clumsy announcement and near-immediate retraction, has caused substantial concern and confusion among providers. It is likely that this confusion extends to Department employees working in the field. It is important that you clearly communicate to all regional Department employees that they should not be engaging in the reallocation of any Specific Purpose funds for homelessness services. At a recent event in Washington, D.C., you and other members of the Trump Administration toured an apartment building that utilizes the HUD-VASH program and now houses over 60 veterans. During that visit you stated your commitment, “to continue our efforts until we get every veteran off the streets to find a home such as this.” I expect the Department’s actions to mirror that commitment. I look forward to your response.   Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-introduces-solution-to-shield-wa-fishermen-from-unnecessary-costs-delays,"Cantwell Introduces Solution to Shield WA Fishermen from Unnecessary Costs, Delays",2017-12-07,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.17 Cantwell Introduces Solution to Shield WA Fishermen from Unnecessary Costs, Delays Cantwell’s legislation provides regulatory relief for smaller vessels like crab and salmon boats WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) introduced the Fishing and Small Vessel Relief Act (S.2194)  to extend protections for fishermen and small vessel owners from adhering to costly requirements that do not tangibly protect or improve water quality for vessels of their size. An EPA study found that incidental discharges from these small vessels do not generate a significant threat to our waters. The bill will extend a current moratorium that exempts fishing vessels and vessels under 79 feet from incidental discharge permitting requirements mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These vessels have been continuously exempt since 2008 under a temporary moratorium as they do not pose a serious environmental risk. “Fishermen are key drivers of Washington state’s growing economy. We need their boats out fishing, not bogged down by regulations meant for large vessels like oil tankers,” said Cantwell. Cantwell’s science-based legislation brings stability to small vessel owners who have been at unease due to an impending December 18th expiration of the current moratorium. More than 115,000 small vessels nation-wide would receive relief under the Cantwell legislation. Commercial fishing boats make up the bulk of the protected vessels, but many research vessels, tour boats, tugboats, towboats, and offshore supply boats would also qualify. The EPA’s vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements are intended to prevent water pollution and the spread of invasive species through release of bilge water, ballast, and other discharges. These regulations are critical to safeguard the environment from large vessels, who are more likely to carry pollutants and run a greater risk of introducing invasive species. Vessel discharge from smaller vessels does not pose a serious environmental risk. A copy of the bill can be found HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-join-bipartisan-group-urging-extension-of-secure-rural-schools-program-,"Senators Cantwell, Murray Join Bipartisan Group Urging Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program",2017-12-07,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.17 Senators Cantwell, Murray Join Bipartisan Group Urging Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a bipartisan group of 32 senators in sending a letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), urging them to include a reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Program in any end-of-year legislation. SRS supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, emergency services, and many other essential county services for more than 775 counties across the country. The SRS program expired on September 30, 2015, and it has not been reauthorized for FY16 or beyond. Forest counties and schools received their last authorized SRS payment in 2016. Without SRS, existing revenue-sharing payments are not sufficient to support critical services these counties must provide. “The SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies,” Senators Cantwell and Murray wrote. “In the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.” In October, Senators Cantwell and Murray pushed for a two-year reauthorization of SRS. In 2016, under SRS, Forest Service payments to Washington counties totaled more than $17.3 million. This year, without SRS funding in place, Forest Service payments to Washington counties have totaled just $2.3 million. In addition to Senators Cantwell and Murray, senators who signed the letter include: Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AK), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Robert P. Casey, Jr. (D-PA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Al Franken (D-MN), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), Margaret Wood Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Dean Heller (R-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Joe Manchin III (D-WV), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Jeffery A. Merkley (D-OR), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Gary Peters (D-MI), James E. Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Roger Wicker (R-MS). The full letter is below: December 6, 2017 Dear Majority Leader McConnell and Minority Leader Schumer:         We write to strongly urge the inclusion of at least a two-year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, which enjoys tremendous bipartisan support, in any end-of-the-year legislation.         On U.S. Forest Service land, the federal government has historically shared 25 percent of timber harvest revenues with counties to compensate for federal ownership. On certain land managed by the Department of Interior, the Bureau of Land Management shares 50 percent of the revenue from federal timber sales with counties. Due to declining timber harvests, a critical source of funding for rural counties, sometimes referred to as “forest counties,” has seen significant decreases, often decimating impacted county budgets.         In 2000, Congress passed SRS with broad bipartisan support as a fiscal solution to help fund essential services resulting from the reduced revenue-sharing receipts. Since then, SRS has been a critical lifeline for over 775 counties in over 40 states across the country by helping fund more than 4,400 schools, road maintenance, law enforcement, and search and rescue operations.  However, SRS authorization lapsed last year and rural counties are now back to simply receiving the timber revenue-sharing receipts. These receipts are up to 80 percent less than what forest counties received under SRS.         We are now witnessing firsthand the hardships rural counties face as a result of SRS authorization lapsing. Without the certainty of SRS payments, schools, libraries, and jails are closing. Schools that remain open will see a reduction of teachers. Roads go unpaved and become unsafe. Mental and physical health services are scaled back or even ended. Fewer and fewer law enforcement officers are forced to patrol larger and larger areas.         The SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies.        In the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.         Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=14066253-30B9-45A4-896A-47EFEE373FFE,"Senator Murray to Dreamers: We stand with you, and we will not stop until we get this across the finish line",2017-12-07,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In floor speech, Sen. Murray urges Republicans to reject President Trump’s reckless agenda and instead support the bipartisan DREAM Act President Trump announced the end of the DACA program, leaving the futures of 800,000 young men and women in doubt unless Congress acts ***WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAY’S FLOOR SPEECH HERE*** (Washington, D.C.) – Today, in a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) called on Senate Republicans to support immediate passage of the bipartisan DREAM Act. The lives of 800,000 men and women have been in limbo since September, when President Trump announced the end of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA. Sen. Murray highlighted the stories of three DACA recipients from Washington state—a health professional, a WSU student, and a business owner—who attribute their success to the 2012 program. Read more about the DREAM Act of 2017 here. Key Excepts of Senator Murray’s floor speech, as prepared for delivery: “Imagine waking up day after day without any certainty about what comes next. And imagine that the country you love— the country you have grown up in, where you’re part of the community, where you pay your taxes, where you spend your time, your energy, and your money-- won’t commit to uphold its promise to you.” “Dreamers were brought to this country as children—some of them so young, they don’t remember it. And holding up their futures—or sending them to a country they’ve never known—makes no sense for them or for our country. It doesn’t do anything to solve our broken immigration system. And it certainly doesn’t reflect a country of opportunity or promise, something the U.S. has always aspired to be.” “I know it can’t be easy to speak up in these uncertain times but I want Dreamers to know there are a lot of us in Congress, and across the country, inspired by your courage and resilience. We stand with you, and we will not stop until we get this across the finish line.” WATCH video of Senator Murray’s floor speech HERE. Full text of Senator Murray’s floor speech, as prepared for delivery: Thank you. I come to the floor today as a voice for 800,000 young men and women who are counting on all of us to pass the Dream Act. We can’t wait, because they can’t wait. Every day that passes is another day they are forced to keep their lives on hold. Right now hundreds of thousands of young people in this country are deferring their dreams of finishing a college degree, becoming a doctor, buying a home, raising a family, starting a small business, or serving in our military— all because President Trump pulled the plug on the DACA program three months ago. Imagine that feeling. Imagine waking up day after day without any certainty about what comes next. And imagine that the country you love— the country you have grown up in, where you’re part of the community, where you pay your taxes, where you spend your time, your energy, and your money-- won’t commit to uphold its promise to you. That’s just wrong. Dreamers were brought to this country as children—some of them so young, they don’t remember it. And holding up their futures—or sending them to a country they’ve never known—makes no sense for them or for our country. It doesn’t do anything to solve our broken immigration system. And it certainly doesn’t reflect a country of opportunity or promise, something the U.S. has always aspired to be. My colleagues have been sharing stories from their states. Here are a few from Washington state—just a few of so many I’ve heard in recent months. Not long ago, I was in Tacoma to visit a community organization that has helped hundreds of men and women get enrolled in the DACA program, including a woman named Adriana. Adriana has always been a strong student. As early as middle school, she was representing her school district in statewide math and science competitions. Now, after becoming a certified nursing assistant, she is a program manager supervising others.  Letting the DACA program collapse would be a huge setback for Adriana. And, it would end her authorization to work as a nursing assistant. I’ve also heard from a sophomore at my alma mater, Washington State University, who was brought to the U.S. at the age of nine.  Thanks to the DACA program, she was able to get a job helping adults with disabilities, which has allowed her to pay for college tuition and support herself. So she’s a full-time student with a part-time job, and still finds time to volunteer in her community. She’s on track to graduate in 2019 and she dreams of owning her own company someday. I heard from another DACA recipient, who owns a business in Washington state. He said his college degree from the University of Washington—that he completed without any federally-funded help—symbolized one of his great life challenges. And as he noted, he is now using his education, his skills, earnings, and taxes to contribute to the U.S. economy. He writes, “this country is my home.” The thought that “this country” would slam the door shut on him or any other Dreamer, after all they have put into their communities and our country, is so backward. So that’s why we, Senators who were elected to work for the people and address the big issues facing this country, need to act.  I urge my Republican colleagues, consider the stories you’ve heard from your own state. Think about the communities you represent, and the young men and women who are studying, working, and opening businesses in the communities that you travel to and live in. Show them that President Trump’s reckless, divisive agenda doesn’t represent you, your party, or your state. Work with Democrats to stand for the Dreamers in your district who are unsure if they can keep their job at a hospital or as a firefighter, or serve in our military to fight for our freedoms. Who are unsure if they can stay in the only country they’ve known as home and remain with loved ones. We need the help of every member to push back against the policies and the rhetoric that hurts our friends and neighbors, our coworkers, our students, and our loved ones. Because, to paraphrase Dr. King-- we know that only our light can drive out the dark forces of bigotry and division in our country. I want to thank the countless DACA recipients who have bravely shared their stories in letters, in person, and at rallies across our great nation. I know it can’t be easy to speak up in these uncertain times but I want Dreamers to know there are a lot of us in Congress, and across the country, inspired by your courage and resilience. We stand with you, and we will not stop until we get this across the finish line. Thank you, I yield the floor.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3E8D09FC-5C29-41E5-B6D9-967F5A283B42,"Senators Murray, Cantwell Join Bipartisan Group Urging Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program",2017-12-07,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a bipartisan group of 32 senators in sending a letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), urging them to include a reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Program in any end-of-year legislation. SRS supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, emergency services, and many other essential county services for more than 775 counties across the country. The SRS program expired on September 30, 2015, and it has not been reauthorized for FY16 or beyond. Forest counties and schools received their last authorized SRS payment in 2016. Without SRS, existing revenue-sharing payments are not sufficient to support critical services these counties must provide. “The SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies,” Senators Cantwell and Murray wrote. “In the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.” In October, Senators Cantwell and Murray pushed for a two-year reauthorization of SRS. In 2016, under SRS, Forest Service payments to Washington counties totaled more than $17.3 million. This year, without SRS funding in place, Forest Service payments to Washington counties have totaled just $2.3 million. In addition to Senators Cantwell and Murray, senators who signed the letter include: Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AK), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Robert P. Casey, Jr. (D-PA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Al Franken (D-MN), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), Margaret Wood Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Dean Heller (R-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Joe Manchin III (D-WV), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Jeffery A. Merkley (D-OR), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Gary Peters (D-MI), James E. Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Roger Wicker (R-MS). The full letter is below:   December 6, 2017   The Honorable Mitch McConnell                                                           The Honorable Chuck Schumer Majority Leader, U.S. Senate                                                                  Minority Leader, U.S. Senate U.S. Capitol, S-230                                                                                    U.S. Capitol, S-221 Washington, DC 20510                                                                            Washington, DC 20510   Dear Majority Leader McConnell and Minority Leader Schumer:         We write to strongly urge the inclusion of at least a two-year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, which enjoys tremendous bipartisan support, in any end-of-the-year legislation.         On U.S. Forest Service land, the federal government has historically shared 25 percent of timber harvest revenues with counties to compensate for federal ownership. On certain land managed by the Department of Interior, the Bureau of Land Management shares 50 percent of the revenue from federal timber sales with counties. Due to declining timber harvests, a critical source of funding for rural counties, sometimes referred to as “forest counties,” has seen significant decreases, often decimating impacted county budgets.         In 2000, Congress passed SRS with broad bipartisan support as a fiscal solution to help fund essential services resulting from the reduced revenue-sharing receipts. Since then, SRS has been a critical lifeline for over 775 counties in over 40 states across the country by helping fund more than 4,400 schools, road maintenance, law enforcement, and search and rescue operations.  However, SRS authorization lapsed last year and rural counties are now back to simply receiving the timber revenue-sharing receipts. These receipts are up to 80 percent less than what forest counties received under SRS.         We are now witnessing firsthand the hardships rural counties face as a result of SRS authorization lapsing. Without the certainty of SRS payments, schools, libraries, and jails are closing. Schools that remain open will see a reduction of teachers. Roads go unpaved and become unsafe. Mental and physical health services are scaled back or even ended. Fewer and fewer law enforcement officers are forced to patrol larger and larger areas.         The SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies.        In the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.         Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=63FACAE8-1A4A-42E4-BB97-EEFDD79B4464,Senator Murray Statement on Appointment to GOP Tax Bill Conference Committee,2017-12-07,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after being named as one of the seven Senate Democratic conferees to participate in negotiations on the Trump-Republican tax plan: “I am proud to work to bring the many concerns of Washington state families directly to this conference committee alongside Senator Cantwell. I am going to be urging Republicans to listen to their constituents and finally begin a transparent, bipartisan process that actually puts workers, families, patients, and the middle class first, rather than just paying them lip service. “A tax plan that relies on further sabotaging the health care system, spiking families’ premiums, and causing millions to lose their coverage—just to pay for corporate tax breaks—does not meet that test. And I will continue to make clear that the bipartisan bill I wrote with Chairman Alexander will not undo the damage that this tax plan would cause when it comes to health care. “Washington state families are paying attention to the details of the Republican tax plan, from the elimination of the state and local tax deduction that would affect hundreds of thousands of families in our state, to the backdoor attempt to open up the Arctic Refuge to drilling. I look forward to bringing these issues and more to the table. “It’s not too late for Republicans to walk away from their appalling, lopsided plan to raise taxes for the middle class while giving big corporations and the rich a massive tax break—and if they step back from the precipice, I am ready to get to work.” In addition to Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Senate Democratic conferees include: Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Tom Carper (D-DE).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-joins-bipartisan-group-of-colleagues-to-launch-reformers-caucus,Kilmer Joins Bipartisan Group of Colleagues to Launch Reformers Caucus,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.17 Kilmer Joins Bipartisan Group of Colleagues to Launch Reformers Caucus Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06) joined Representatives Kathleen Rice (NY-04) and Ken Buck (CO-04) to launch the bipartisan Congressional Reformers Caucus in the United States House of Representatives. Co-chairs Buck and Rice were joined by 17 of their colleagues as founding members of the caucus. The group pledges to work across the aisle in pursuit of common sense reforms to Congress and the legislative process. “The members of this caucus come from across the political spectrum and disagree on plenty of issues, but it’s obvious to all of us that Congress is in dire need of reform, and we’re committed to taking real action to change the status quo in Washington, reduce the influence of money in our political process, and get our government back to work for the people we serve,” said Representative Kathleen Rice, co-Chair of the Congressional Reformers Caucus. “People are tired of partisan gridlock and double standards for politicians, and they’re waiting for leaders to step up and work together to reform our campaign finance system and legislative process so we can solve real problems. That’s exactly why we created the Reformers Caucus, and I’m excited to join my colleagues in this effort to start restoring the public’s faith and trust in their government.” “Washington is broken. Donors and insiders have too much influence, and too often backroom deals trip up good legislation. Political party has nothing to do with good governance, which is why I’m proud to be joined by my friend, Rep. Kathleen Rice, and a bipartisan group of colleagues who all want a Congress that works for the people. I’m eager to develop legislation with this group that will improve America’s trust in our democracy,” stated Congressman Ken Buck, co-chair of the Congressional Reformers Caucus. “People are right to view Washington, DC in such low regard,” Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06) said. “Bills are being written by special interests in order to benefit campaign donors with no concern for the effects it has on the people who have to live with the results. That’s wrong, and the Reformers Caucus will work to bring the will of the American people back into the debate.”   “The time is now to bring common sense reforms, accountability, and transparency to Washington. I look forward to joining this bipartisan group so that we can work to regain the trust of the American people,” stated Congressman Ralph Norman (SC-05). ""I'm proud to join this bipartisan effort to restore greater transparency, fairness, and ethics to the legislative process. Leaders should be held to a higher standard. It's time to bring integrity to Washington D.C.,” stated Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06). “San Diegans know that our collaborative culture among businesses, universities, and government can be a model for Washington. I’m pleased to join this Caucus, dedicated to working across the aisle in good faith to pass common-sense reform that would result in greater government transparency, an overhaul to the way our elections are run, and restore the full legislative process,” stated Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52). The launch of this caucus comes at a time when confidence in Congress sits at all-time lows. Americans worry that donors and Beltway insiders have undue influence over a broken legislative process. Citizens are losing confidence in our nation’s capacity for good governance and functional democracy. The Congressional Reformers Caucus aims to work across the aisle on common sense reforms, fighting for greater transparency, fairness, and ethics in the legislative process. Below are the founding members of the Congressional Reformers Caucus: Democrat: Kathleen Rice (NY-04) Derek Kilmer (WA-06) Scott Peters (CA-52) Seth Moulton (MA-06) Ron Kind (WI-03) Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01) Cheri Bustos (IL-17) Stephanie Murphy (FL-07) Donald Norcross (NJ-01) John Sarbanes (MD-03) Republican:  Ken Buck (CO-04) Mike Gallagher (WI-08) Ralph Norman (SC-05) Andy Biggs (AZ-05) Jack Bergman (MI-01) Matt Gaetz (FL-01) Rodney Davis (IL-13) Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) Mike Coffman (CO-06) Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-smith-opposes-concealed-carry-reciprocity-act,Congressman Smith Opposes Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Adam Smith,S000510,adamsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Office Information District Office Information Constituent Services Community Outreach Constituent Services Community Outreach: Beacon Hill Seattle Public Library: Beacon Hill Branch Constituent Services Community Outreach: Bellevue The Lake Hills Library Constituent Services Community Outreach: Federal Way The Federal Way Library Constituent Services Community Outreach: Kent The Kent Regional Library Constituent Services Community Outreach: Mercer Island Mercer Island Library Constituent Services Community Outreach: Seattle The Good Will Industries",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smith-statement-on-president-trumps-decision-to-recognize-jerusalem-as,Smith Statement on President Trump's Decision to Recognize Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Adam Smith,S000510,adamsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Office Information District Office Information Constituent Services Community Outreach Constituent Services Community Outreach: Beacon Hill Seattle Public Library: Beacon Hill Branch Constituent Services Community Outreach: Bellevue The Lake Hills Library Constituent Services Community Outreach: Federal Way The Federal Way Library Constituent Services Community Outreach: Kent The Kent Regional Library Constituent Services Community Outreach: Mercer Island Mercer Island Library Constituent Services Community Outreach: Seattle The Good Will Industries",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/bipartisan-congressional-bus-caucus-launches-co-led-by-wa-us-rep-rick,"Bipartisan Congressional Bus Caucus Launches, Co-Led by WA U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen",2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Washington State Transit Association has announced the formation of the Bipartisan Congressional Bus Caucus to be Co-Chaired by Congressmen Rick Larsen from Washington’s 2nd Congressional District in Northwest Washington and Congressman David Young, (R-IA). “As someone who uses public transportation every day, I understand just how critical safe and reliable bus systems are for working Americans,” said Larsen. “With more than 195 million passenger trips in Washington state annually, I am thrilled to co-chair the Congressional Bus Caucus — robust investment in buses and transportation will keep the economy thriving.” The purpose of the Bus Caucus is to give a stronger voice to more than 1,100 bus transit systems across the country, 31 in Washington State, and highlight the need for adequate federal funding of bus transit programs. As federal spending for public transportation has been limited, transit agencies have expressed frustration that there is not enough money to fund the needs of both heavy rail systems and bus agencies. The Bus Caucus seeks to highlight the benefits of investing in bus systems, the challenges accompanying aging bus fleets and facilities, and encourage innovation in a rapidly changing transportation climate. The Caucus will raise awareness on Capitol Hill by holding occasional events to highlight the importance of transit agencies striving to deliver reliable service and meet a state of good repair. “There is a mountain of need by every transit agency in our state for expansion and replacement of their fleets and facilities so we are pleased to see Rep. Larsen take the lead on the Bus Caucus as our agencies and passengers need a strong voice on Capitol Hill,” said Justin D. Leighton, WSTA executive director, which represents every transit agency in Washington State. Buses are the unsung hero in our nation’s transportation network, providing more than 51 percent of transit trips per year. They have an even greater role in Washington State as they provide over 85 percent of the total 230 million public transportation trips taken in the state. “As President of The Bus Coalition and General Manager of Link Transit, I see how funding cuts at the federal, state and local level are impacting bus systems of all sizes,” said Wenatchee transit executive Richard DeRock. The Bus Coalition is a transit industry advocacy group focused on issues specific to bus agencies. “Many agencies are struggling to keep up with aging fleets and crumbling transit facilities. We know when systems age and service is cut, the rider experience suffers and ridership declines. That’s why I’m so excited about the formation of a new Congressional Caucus that will shine light on the needs of the bus transit community and give voice to a transportation asset that is so important to our local and national economy,” DeRock said. Rep. Denny Heck (WA-10) joins Larsen as a founding member of the Bus Caucus. A total of nine members of Congress have joined. “We encourage the remaining members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation to join their colleagues in this effort,” said Leighton. “This issue is vitally important to Washington’s transit agencies and their customers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-sponsors-legislation-to-give-control-of-credit-information-back-to-consumers-protect-personal-data-following-equifax-hack-,"Cantwell Sponsors Legislation to Give Control of Credit Information Back to Consumers, Protect Personal Data Following Equifax Hack",2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.17 Cantwell Sponsors Legislation to Give Control of Credit Information Back to Consumers, Protect Personal Data Following Equifax Hack WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) co-sponsored the Freedom from Equifax Exploitation (FREE) Act, authored by Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI), to give control over credit and personal information back to consumers. The recent Equifax hack announcement, which compromised the personal information of over 145 million Americans, highlighted just how little control consumers have over the collection, use, and sale of their own credit data. “Equifax and many other companies have a long, long way to go before they deserve the public’s trust when it comes to protecting personal information,” said Cantwell. “This legislation will put control of their personal financial information back in the hands of American consumers, where it should have been all along.” Credit reporting agencies like Equifax collect personal financial data on millions of Americans and rake in billions of dollars in annual revenue selling this information to others.  If consumers wish to limit how credit reporting agencies use this information - such as by placing a credit freeze on their credit file - they often have to pay a fee to the agency, even though consumers never gave the agency permission to collect their data in the first place.  The FREE Act helps address this problem by creating a federal requirement for credit reporting agencies to freeze (as well as temporarily or permanently unfreeze) access to credit files at a consumer's request and at no cost. The FREE Act would also prevent credit reporting agencies from profiting off of consumers' information during a freeze, enhance fraud alert protections, and provide the opportunity for consumers to receive an additional free credit report following the Equifax data breach.  Finally, the bill would force Equifax and the other credit reporting agencies to refund any fees they charged for credit freezes in the wake of the Equifax data breach. The legislation has received endorsements from the National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients), U.S. PIRG, Consumer Action, Americans for Financial Reform, CREDO, National Association of Consumer Advocates, and the Consumer Federation of America. View a fact sheet about the legislation HERE. View the bill text HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-and-murray-demand-trump-administration-reinstate-birth-control-coverage-for-millions-of-women,Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Trump Administration Reinstate Birth Control Coverage for Millions of Women,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.17 Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Trump Administration Reinstate Birth Control Coverage for Millions of Women In new letter, Senators call on Trump Administration to rescind President Trump’s action allowing employers to roll back health care coverage for women WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate health committee, called on Acting Secretary of Health and Human Services Eric Hargan to rescind President Trump’s interim final rules (IFRs) issued on October 13, 2017 enabling employers and universities to interfere with their employees’ and students’ access to preventive health care by allowing them to choose not to cover birth control for religious or moral reasons. In their letter, the Senators highlighted the enormous economic benefit of requiring health plans to cover preventive services, including birth control for women, without out-of-pocket costs. “This requirement has helped 62.4 million women have coverage for birth control. As a result, they have been able to make decisions about their reproductive health care that strengthen their economic standing and allow them to decide if and when to start families,” wrote the Senators. “These IFRs also allow employers and insurance companies to once again discriminate against women by requiring them to pay more for the health care they need compared to their male counterparts.” Senators Murray and Cantwell also noted that repealing the birth control mandate goes against the original intentions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which created explicit provisions to guarantee women access to preventive services. “Congress specifically included the Women’s Health Amendment in the ACA to ensure that the legislation would end the “punitive practices of insurances companies that charge women more and give [them] less in a benefit” by guaranteeing women access to preventive services,” the Senators wrote. “The IFRs fail to recognize this clear congressional intent to place medical experts’ recommendations over political ideology.” In addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Christopher S. Murphy (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Al Franken (D-MN), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory A. Booker (D-NJ), Gary C. Peters (D-MI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Jon Tester (D-MT), Jeff A. Merkley (D-OR), and Robert P. Casey Jr. (D-PA). Full text of letter below and PDF can be found HERE: December 5, 2017 The Honorable Eric D. HarganActing SecretaryU.S. Department of Health and Human Services200 Independence Avenue, SWWashington, DC 20201 Dear Acting Secretary Hargan, We write to strongly oppose the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury’s interim final rules (IFRs) published on Friday October 13, 2017. The IFRs allow employers and universities to interfere with their employees’ and students’ access to necessary, preventive health care and to roll back policies that have protected women’s health and rights, as well as saved women billions of dollars over the past five years. Instead of reversing this significant progress for women – which it did without appropriate input from the public – the Trump Administration should reinstate the protections that allow women to control their own health care and economic security. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plans are required to cover preventive services, including birth control for women, without out-of-pocket costs. This requirement has helped 62.4 million women have coverage for birth control. As a result, they have been able to make decisions about their reproductive health care that strengthen their economic standing and allow them to decide if and when to start families. Contrary to claims in the background section of the IFRs, Congress was abundantly clear that to fulfill the goals of ensuring comprehensive coverage of preventive care, better health for women, equality for women, and ending discrimination against women in health care, it intended to increase access to preventive care, including contraception, for women. Congress specifically included the Women’s Health Amendment in the ACA to ensure that the legislation would end the “punitive practices of insurances companies that charge women more and give [them] less in a benefit” by guaranteeing women access to preventive services. In including this provision in the law, Congress sought to advance women’s access to health care, promote equality for women in health care, and advance women’s social and economic status. Ensuring access to cost-free preventive services for women, including screening for cancer and HIV, helps to remove barriers that can prevent women from getting the care they need. Additionally, Congress understood that cost-free preventive health care services for women, including contraception, would decrease maternal mortality, reduce unintended pregnancies and pregnancy related complications, and also protect children’s health and well-being by ensuring that women become pregnant when they are healthy and able to care for a child. Congress made the specific decision to rely on the expertise of the federal regulatory agencies in implementing the ACA. When the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) ultimately recommended coverage of birth control and related services, it effectuated Congress’s intent. Congress’s reliance on HRSA and the use of expert committees to determine the specific services and contraceptive methods to be covered does not detract from Congress’s clear intent to provide for contraceptive coverage. To the contrary, this process ensured that medical experts determined the necessary benefits and services that would appropriately implement Congress’s goals. The IFRs fail to recognize this clear congressional intent to place medical experts’ recommendations over political ideology. The IFRs offer justification for their sweeping exemptions by pointing to other statutory exemptions passed by Congress, as well as the ACA’s “grandfathering” provision. However, the majority of the statutory exemptions cited are not pertinent to insurance coverage, contraception, or the ACA. The Departments misconstrue these statutes to imply that Congress not only intended this broad exemption to the ACA’s contraceptive coverage requirement, but also that the Departments have authority to create such a sweeping exemption. Neither is true. Moreover, the grandfathering provision of the ACA is a temporary means for transitioning employers to full compliance, not an exemption. By creating far-reaching exemptions to the requirement to include cost-free coverage for contraceptives, the IFRs are taking a huge step back in guaranteeing women have access to important preventive services.  Ultimately, the IFRs allow employers – including large, for-profit entities – to claim a religious or moral objection to their employees having coverage for birth control and allow employers to deny individual employees coverage for necessary health care otherwise guaranteed by law. The rules also permit universities to deny access to birth control coverage for their students and insurance companies to refuse to cover birth control at all.  The result of these changes is to allow employers and universities to apply their own religious or moral beliefs to deprive women of a benefit that is both central to women’s equity and guaranteed to them by law. These drastic changes to women’s access to health care are part of a troubling history of women being denied ownership of their own health care decisions - a history that has had a disastrous resurgence under the Trump Administration.  These IFRs also allow employers and insurance companies to once again discriminate against women by requiring them to pay more for the health care they need compared to their male counterparts. In creating these sweeping exemptions that block birth control coverage for women and discriminate against them – without authority and in violation of clear Congressional intent and regulatory requirements – the IFRs violate constitutional and statutory provisions, including the Establishment Clause and equal protection and due process guarantees of the U.S. Constitution, and the non-discrimination provision of the Affordable Care Act.  By publishing these as Interim Final Rules, which went into effect immediately, the Departments failed to give the public an opportunity to weigh in on a policy which will impact millions of women and families, in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act. The IFRs claim that, despite the significant restrictions they impose, birth control is still readily accessible and that other federal government programs cover costs for low-income women. The IFRs fail to acknowledge that the Trump Administration has been actively working to undermine and dismantle a number of programs, including Medicaid and Title X, that assist low-income women in accessing birth control. For example, each Trumpcare bill this year has proposed a dramatic restructuring of the Medicaid program that would result in significant coverage losses for low-income women. President Trump has also signed legislation that undermines provider protections in the Title X family planning program and threatens to reduce the number of providers in the program.  The Trump Administration cannot claim these programs will cover the costs of contraception coverage for women who will lose coverage because of the IFRs while simultaneously working to undermine them.  By instituting broad exemptions and no guarantee that women have another way to get coverage, these IFRs would undermine access to comprehensive birth control coverage. Rather than taking yet another destructive action to undermine health care, the Trump Administration should rescind these IFRs in their entirety.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=63B9CE52-C312-40F4-9012-CBDE10BE6659,VETERANS: Senator Murray Slams President Trump For Gutting Successful Program to Combat Veteran Homelessness,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Despite repeated campaign promises to help veterans, President Trump’s VA Secretary undermines key homelessness program in Washington state and around country  Politico: The HUD-VASH program has “dramatically reduced homelessness among chronically sick and vulnerable veterans” Senator Murray: “…by turning his back on homeless veterans, President Trump has hit a new low” (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of both the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee, sharply criticized President Trump after VA Secretary David Shulkin announced steps to undermine a key program to combat veteran homelessness by stripping away essential funds for supportive services. Known as HUD-VASH, the program helps veterans across the country by providing housing vouchers that combine rental assistance from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Since 2008, when Senator Murray helped restart HUD-VASH, the program has helped more than 100,000 homeless veterans. Last month, Senator Murray and every member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee overseeing spending related to veterans wrote a letter to VA Secretary Shulkin expressing serious concern over any changes to funding and its potential impacts to critical veteran programs, specifically citing the successful HUD-VASH program. “President Trump has taken a lot of reckless steps over the past year, but by turning his back on homeless veterans, President Trump has hit a new low,” Senator Murray said. “I strongly believe this country has a responsibility to care for the brave men and women who served our country, and as I’ve stated for years, if VA needs additional resources or better policy, I’m always ready to figure out bipartisan solutions. But simply pulling the rug out from under a successful program—leaving veterans and those providing them housing and supportive services in the lurch-- is mean-spirited and wrong, and I will fight this change with every tool I have. The decision to shift money away from the supportive services veterans urgently need is especially callous and perplexing on the same day that the Administration released data showing a nationwide increase in the number of homeless veterans since last year.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=D728AD1A-42E6-43BE-9031-F48550AB1470,Senators Murray and Cantwell Demand Trump Administration Reinstate Birth Control Coverage for Millions of Women,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Back in October, President Trump rolled back birth control mandate under the ACA undermining preventive care for millions of women nationwide—LINK In new letter, Senators Murray, Cantwell call on Trump Administration to rescind President Trump’s action allowing employers to roll back health care coverage for women ICYMI- Following President Trump’s action, Senators Murray, Cantwell introduced “Protect Access to Birth Control Act” to reinstate the birth control mandate—LINK Senators: “Instead of reversing this significant progress for women – which it did without appropriate input from the public – the Trump Administration should reinstate the protections that allow women to control their own health care and economic security.” (Washington, D.C.) –  Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) called on Acting Secretary of Health and Human Services Eric Hargan to rescind President Trump’s interim final rules (IFRs) issued on October 13, 2017 enabling employers and universities to interfere with their employees’ and students’ access to preventive health care by allowing them to choose not to cover birth control for religious or moral reasons. In their letter, the Senators highlighted the enormous economic benefit of requiring health plans to cover preventive services, including birth control for women, without out-of-pocket costs. “This requirement has helped 62.4 million women have coverage for birth control. As a result, they have been able to make decisions about their reproductive health care that strengthen their economic standing and allow them to decide if and when to start families,” wrote the Senators. “These IFRs also allow employers and insurance companies to once again discriminate against women by requiring them to pay more for the health care they need compared to their male counterparts.” Senators Murray and Cantwell also noted that repealing the birth control mandate goes against the original intentions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which created explicit provisions to guarantee women access to preventive services. “Congress specifically included the Women’s Health Amendment in the ACA to ensure that the legislation would end the “punitive practices of insurances companies that charge women more and give [them] less in a benefit” by guaranteeing women access to preventive services,” the Senators wrote. “The IFRs fail to recognize this clear congressional intent to place medical experts’ recommendations over political ideology.” In addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Christopher S. Murphy (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Al Franken (D-MN), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory A. Booker (D-NJ), Gary C. Peters (D-MI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Jon Tester (D-MT), Jeff A. Merkley (D-OR), and Robert P. Casey Jr. (D-PA). Full text of letter below and PDF can be found HERE:   December 5, 2017   The Honorable Eric D. Hargan Acting Secretary U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20201   Dear Acting Secretary Hargan, We write to strongly oppose the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury’s interim final rules (IFRs) published on Friday October 13, 2017.[1]  The IFRs allow employers and universities to interfere with their employees’ and students’ access to necessary, preventive health care and to roll back policies that have protected women’s health and rights, as well as saved women billions of dollars over the past five years. Instead of reversing this significant progress for women – which it did without appropriate input from the public – the Trump Administration should reinstate the protections that allow women to control their own health care and economic security. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plans are required to cover preventive services, including birth control for women, without out-of-pocket costs. This requirement has helped 62.4 million women have coverage for birth control.[2] As a result, they have been able to make decisions about their reproductive health care that strengthen their economic standing and allow them to decide if and when to start families. Contrary to claims in the background section of the IFRs, Congress was abundantly clear that to fulfill the goals of ensuring comprehensive coverage of preventive care, better health for women, equality for women, and ending discrimination against women in health care, it intended to increase access to preventive care, including contraception, for women. Congress specifically included the Women’s Health Amendment in the ACA to ensure that the legislation would end the “punitive practices of insurances companies that charge women more and give [them] less in a benefit” by guaranteeing women access to preventive services.[3] In including this provision in the law, Congress sought to advance women’s access to health care, promote equality for women in health care, and advance women’s social and economic status.[4] Ensuring access to cost-free preventive services for women, including screening for cancer and HIV, helps to remove barriers that can prevent women from getting the care they need. Additionally, Congress understood that cost-free preventive health care services for women, including contraception, would decrease maternal mortality, reduce unintended pregnancies and pregnancy related complications, and also protect children’s health and well-being by ensuring that women become pregnant when they are healthy and able to care for a child.[5] Congress made the specific decision to rely on the expertise of the federal regulatory agencies in implementing the ACA. When the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) ultimately recommended coverage of birth control and related services, it effectuated Congress’s intent. Congress’s reliance on HRSA and the use of expert committees to determine the specific services and contraceptive methods to be covered does not detract from Congress’s clear intent to provide for contraceptive coverage. To the contrary, this process ensured that medical experts determined the necessary benefits and services that would appropriately implement Congress’s goals. The IFRs fail to recognize this clear congressional intent to place medical experts’ recommendations over political ideology. The IFRs offer justification for their sweeping exemptions by pointing to other statutory exemptions passed by Congress, as well as the ACA’s “grandfathering” provision. However, the majority of the statutory exemptions cited are not pertinent to insurance coverage, contraception, or the ACA. The Departments misconstrue these statutes to imply that Congress not only intended this broad exemption to the ACA’s contraceptive coverage requirement, but also that the Departments have authority to create such a sweeping exemption. Neither is true. Moreover, the grandfathering provision of the ACA is a temporary means for transitioning employers to full compliance, not an exemption. By creating far-reaching exemptions to the requirement to include cost-free coverage for contraceptives, the IFRs are taking a huge step back in guaranteeing women have access to important preventive services.  Ultimately, the IFRs allow employers – including large, for-profit entities – to claim a religious or moral objection to their employees having coverage for birth control and allow employers to deny individual employees coverage for necessary health care otherwise guaranteed by law. The rules also permit universities to deny access to birth control coverage for their students and insurance companies to refuse to cover birth control at all.  The result of these changes is to allow employers and universities to apply their own religious or moral beliefs to deprive women of a benefit that is both central to women’s equity and guaranteed to them by law. These drastic changes to women’s access to health care are part of a troubling history of women being denied ownership of their own health care decisions - a history that has had a disastrous resurgence under the Trump Administration.  These IFRs also allow employers and insurance companies to once again discriminate against women by requiring them to pay more for the health care they need compared to their male counterparts. In creating these sweeping exemptions that block birth control coverage for women and discriminate against them – without authority and in violation of clear Congressional intent and regulatory requirements – the IFRs violate constitutional and statutory provisions, including the Establishment Clause and equal protection and due process guarantees of the U.S. Constitution, and the non-discrimination provision of the Affordable Care Act.  By publishing these as Interim Final Rules, which went into effect immediately, the Departments failed to give the public an opportunity to weigh in on a policy which will impact millions of women and families, in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act. The IFRs claim that, despite the significant restrictions they impose, birth control is still readily accessible and that other federal government programs cover costs for low-income women. The IFRs fail to acknowledge that the Trump Administration has been actively working to undermine and dismantle a number of programs, including Medicaid and Title X, that assist low-income women in accessing birth control. For example, each Trumpcare bill this year has proposed a dramatic restructuring of the Medicaid program that would result in significant coverage losses for low-income women. President Trump has also signed legislation that undermines provider protections in the Title X family planning program and threatens to reduce the number of providers in the program.[6]  The Trump Administration cannot claim these programs will cover the costs of contraception coverage for women who will lose coverage because of the IFRs while simultaneously working to undermine them.  By instituting broad exemptions and no guarantee that women have another way to get coverage, these IFRs would undermine access to comprehensive birth control coverage. Rather than taking yet another destructive action to undermine health care, the Trump Administration should rescind these IFRs in their entirety.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=F9F5079E-98AB-4219-9B35-9AD696E303AE,Senator Murrays Statement on Latest Franken News: Its time for him to step aside,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"“I’m shocked and appalled by Sen. Franken’s behavior.  It’s clear to me that this has been a deeply harmful, persistent problem and a clear pattern over a long period of time.  “It’s time for him to step aside.  “For some time I have talked about returning the word respect to our language, to our actions, and to our politics.  That has to start at the top. We must lead by example. Respecting women as equals and not as objects is a critical part of that. Sexual harassment, or assault, or in any way using your power to demean women cannot be tolerated.  I want my colleagues, my staff, my constituents, and especially my granddaughters to know that is not acceptable.   “This institution has evolved over centuries, it’s evolved over my nearly three decades of service, and it’s evolving once more before our very eyes.  This current evolution is long overdue.  It’s time for us as elected representatives to hold ourselves to a higher standard, to set an example, and to live a set of values that is truly representative and worthy of the Congress, our democracy, and our great country.  “To truly accomplish that we must agree that there is no place for discrimination or harassment in the government. We cannot pick and choose based on political party or friendship who we call out. It pains me that in this case it is someone who I think has been a tremendous voice for our party.  But that makes it even more imperative that we don’t tolerate this behavior. We cannot allow it to be ok. Or we own the silence women will once again be delegated to.  “Be they political friends or foes, we must call out those who would seek to sweep under the rug behavior that should never be accepted in any family or community. And if we’re serious about that, there’s no way we can condone those who inappropriately touch others, those who force themselves on women of all ages, or those would take their power and weaponize it for their own ends. For those who are tempted to politicize this issue, or try to protect anyone who has crossed the line into an unacceptable place, I would suggest that they speak first with their mom, wife, sister, daughter, or friend, and ask about their own experiences.  Find out how pervasive the culture of abuse, silence, and acceptance is.  Find out how power is used to abuse.  Find out just how hard it is to speak out.  And then, rather than justifying one person’s behavior for your own political purposes, join me and so many others in making clear that we will not accept it—regardless of party, position, or celebrity.     “I believe service in politics and government is a noble pursuit, and all those who pursue it are flawed in some way.  But I also believe public service demands higher standards – standards we choose to live by the moment we enter public life.  And some actions should disqualify you from service, and they should disqualify you as a representative of all the people in a district, state, or even in the entire country.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/a-former-congressman-asked-his-old-colleagues-for-book-suggestions-here-s,A former congressman asked his old colleagues for book suggestions. Heres their list.,2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"When I used to visit troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, I liked to ask an unexpected question: “What are you reading?” The responses weren’t much different on the battlefield than at my local shopping mall. Lots of thrillers (Patterson, DeMille, Clancy), hobby magazines, continuing education texts and “nothing really, sir” — except nobody called me “sir” at the mall. But what about the political battlefield in Washington, where every day is another bombshell? Which books offer our lawmakers insight, knowledge and, yes, escape? I asked my former Democratic and Republican congressional colleagues to name the titles they have most enjoyed reading this year: Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio): “How To Fight,” by Thich Nhat Hanh. Always instructive on staying grounded personally and professionally. He understands so well the suffering of others. Rep. Matthew Cartwright (D-Pa.): David McCullough’s “The Wright Brothers.” I like it because it’s about tackling ridiculously hard, scary problems and figuring out how to solve them. Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.: Two great books for “fun”: David Grann’s “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI” and Kyle Harper’s “The Fate of Rome: Climate, Disease, and the End of an Empire.” Rep. Charlie Dent (R-Pa.): I’ve always been intrigued by World War II and the events leading up to it. Erik Larson’s “In the Garden of Beasts” relates the fascinating perspective of the American ambassador to Berlin, William Dodd, in the 1930s during the run-up to war. His insider knowledge about Hitler’s Germany is definitely worth reading. Rep. Keith Ellison (D-Minn.): “The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness,” by Sy Montgomery. A fun and fascinating diversion from the political stuff I usually read. It’s about a biologist’s relationship and attachment to octopuses. Amazing animals, octopuses possess powers of thinking and feeling far beyond anything I knew. Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-Calif.): “Journal of a Soul,” by Pope John XXIII. I read it years ago but needed something uplifting, so I went back to it. Rep. Denny Heck (D-Wash.): “Fading Shadows,” by William Chance. This is part memoir and part history of a high school dropout who lies about his age and serves in the Korean War at age 15. Many years later, Chance earned his PhD and became a higher-education policy expert of national repute. Rep. Brian Higgins (D-N.Y.): “Leonardo da Vinci,” by Walter Isaacson. Da Vinci’s relationship with Michelangelo, who was more than 20 years younger, was complicated in the love-hate nature of the Adams-Jefferson political relationship. Rep. Joe Kennedy (D-Mass.): The book that probably affected me most of late is “When Breath Becomes Air,” by Paul Kalanithi. It’s about as gut-wrenching as it gets but asks important questions about priorities, quality of life and our health-care system. Rep. Daniel Kildee (D-Mich.): “Breaking the Spell: Religion as a Natural Phenomenon,” by Daniel C. Dennett. Dennett is a professor of philosophy. When I am not reading history, biography or current events literature, I tend to default to philosophy. I find it’s abstract enough not to feel like work, but interesting. As you might surmise, I don’t tend to read fiction. Except for the White House daily press briefing. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.): “Before I Forget,” by B. Smith and Dan Gasby. About an African American woman’s struggle with Alzheimer’s. She had restaurants in D.C. at Union Station and in New York. Alzheimer’s research related to African Americans has been absent. I’m a member of the appropriations subcommittee on labor, health and human services. I’ve led efforts for increased funding on health disparities research regarding people of color. This book is very well-written, informative and helps me make the case. Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Calif.): I am reading the “Nebula Awards Showcase 2017: The Year’s Best Science Fiction and Fantasy” because the truth coming out of the White House is weirder than science fiction. Rep. Sean Maloney (D-N.Y.): “The Plot Against America,” by Philip Roth. Reason? Duh. And that’s on the record.Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.): “Manhattan Beach,” by Jennifer Egan. I love historical fiction, especially when it features nontraditional strong women heroines. This one is determined to be a diver repairing ships in New York’s harbor during WWII. Secrets and double-crossing on a personal level kept me turning the pages. Rep. Beto O’Rourke (D-Tex.): “The Iliad” right now for no particular reason other than it’s a great book.” Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Guess Which State): “Best. State. Ever.: A Florida Man Defends His Homeland,” by Dave Barry, and “Oh, Florida!: How America’s Weirdest State Influences the Rest of the Country,” by Craig Pittman. Rep. Adam B. Schiff (D-Calif.): I like to be reading a work of fiction and nonfiction at the same time. The former is a great escape from the stresses of the day, and the latter contributes to what we know about history. Pierce Brown’s Red Rising series is like “Game of Thrones” set in space. If you want all the mayhem of the House of Lannister in low gravity, this is the series for you. Imaginative and well-written. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.): “How the Good Guys Finally Won: Notes From an Impeachment Summer,”by Jimmy Breslin. I don’t think you need a description as to why I’m reading it.” And, in what is truly the most bipartisan and collegial response, here’s Rep. Billy Long (R-Mo.) : Actually just finished “Giant of the Senate,” by Al Franken, and now I’m reading Chris Matthews’s new “Bobby Kennedy.” Big Steve Israel and Joe Kennedy fan, too.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-joins-44-senators-urging-president-to-swiftly-nominate-aggressive-head-of-consumer-watchdog,Cantwell Joins 44 Senators Urging President to Swiftly Nominate Aggressive Head of Consumer Watchdog,2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.05.17 Cantwell Joins 44 Senators Urging President to Swiftly Nominate Aggressive Head of Consumer Watchdog WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of Senate Finance Committee, joined 45 Senate colleagues in a letter urging President Trump to follow the law and swiftly nominate a permanent director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) who will put working families ahead of Wall Street. In their letter, the senators cited the CFPB’s “aggressive enforcement and supervision,” which has resulted in $12 billion in relief to 29 million American consumers who were cheated by financial companies. The Senators also expressed serious concerns with the White House installing Budget Director Mick Mulvaney as part-time acting director on November 24th , despite clear language in the Dodd-Frank law stating that the Deputy Director, Leandra English, ‘shall’ run the agency in the ‘absence or unavailability’ of the director. Mulvaney has a clear record opposing the CFPB and has sought to abolish it. In his first act as part-time acting director, Mulvaney moved to freeze the payments to working Americans who’ve been cheated. “Assigning leadership of the CFPB to someone who already has a full-time job reporting to the White House and who does not believe in the CFPB’s mission jeopardizes the agency’s independence and effectiveness,” the members wrote.  “We urge you to nominate a CFPB Director who will bring to the job both bipartisan support and a track record of being tough on Wall Street. Following the Dodd-Frank succession provision and nominating a Director who will fight for consumers allows the CFPB to continue its work without political interference.” The full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3115D829-AF1F-4010-B117-95827BF4EFAA,OPIOID CRISIS: Senator Murray Admonishes Trump Administration for Continued Failure to Support Emergency Funding Needed to Combat Epidemic Devastating Washington State & Communities Nationwide,2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Led by Senator Murray, Senate appropriations subcommittee meets to discuss need to provide emergency supplemental funding to combat opioid epidemic Despite White House’s own Council of Economic Advisors estimating cost of opioid crisis at over $500 billion, President Trump has repeatedly failed to support adequate resources for hospitals, communities, states At hearing, Senator Murray continued to highlight impact of opioid crisis in WA state—“Nearly 10,000 people have died of an opioid overdose since 2000” Senator Murray: “What’s needed to make a real difference in the lives of countless patients and families in Washington state and across the country struggling from addiction are real, immediate resources to fight this battle on the ground” “We need more than tough talk from President Trump to address this crisis” ***WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAY’S OPENING REMARKS HERE*** (Washington, D.C.) – The Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (LHHS) Appropriations Subcommittee, led by Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) for Senate Democrats, held a hearing today to discuss the additional funding needed to meaningfully respond to the opioid crisis with experts from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). As she has traveled around Washington state, Senator Murray has heard from countless patients, families, medical providers, and law enforcement members about the devastating effects of the opioid crisis on local communities.  In her remarks during the hearing and questions with witnesses, Senator Murray called on the Trump Administration to commit to supporting the emergency supplemental funding desperately needed to give States and communities the evidence-based tools to combat the epidemic. ICYMI—Senator Murray continued to highlight CDC director Brenda Fitzgerald’s absence from yet another hearing on the opioid crisis due to her potential conflicts of interest. Key excerpts of Senator Murray’s opening statement (as prepared for delivery): “Every day, from every corner of our country, we hear more about the devastation being caused by the opioid crisis - from doctors who are treating babies born addicted to opioids, to parents who have lost children to an overdose, to veterans in chronic pain who are struggling with addiction – unfortunately the list could go on and on.” “In my home state of Washington, nearly 10,000 people have died of an opioid overdose since 2000. That’s 10,000 lives cut short – with countless more families and friends left suffering and picking up the pieces. And I know these heartbreaking numbers are reflective of what’s going on in states all across the country.” “The opioid epidemic is a public health crisis as well as an emergency—and I’m very disappointed the Administration not taken any decisive action to address it.” “What’s needed to make a real difference in the lives of countless patients and families in Washington state and across the country struggling from addiction are real, immediate resources to fight this battle on the ground.” “Make no mistake – this epidemic IS an emergency.  Every day 175 Americans die from an opioid overdose.  Yet the administration has been shockingly silent when it comes to identifying resources to address this public health crisis of addiction here at home. “ “Last month, the White House’s own Council of Economic Advisors released a report estimating the economic cost of the opioid crisis to be at over $500 billion dollars—just for 2015. That is six times larger than the most recently estimated economic cost of the opioid epidemic.” “Let me tell you – this cost is growing more each and every day – and it certainly won’t be addressed by stunts like the president committing to donating his third quarter salary to HHS. It’s long past time for this administration to get serious about this crisis.” Watch video of Senator Murray’s opening statement HERE. Full text of Senator Murray’s opening statement (as prepared for delivery): Thank you, Mr. Chairman for calling this hearing on such an urgent topic. I am very pleased to welcome the distinguished former Congressman from Rhode Island, Patrick Kennedy, who served on the administration’s opioid Commission. I am looking forward to your testimony, as well as hearing from our witnesses from the Department of Health and Human Services about what additional actions are needed to stem this epidemic.    I also want to note that I am, once again, disappointed that the director of the Centers for Disease Control, Brenda Fitzgerald, was unable to join us today to share her perspective. Since this is an Appropriations committee hearing, I will be pressing our witnesses to talk specifically about funding needs.  Every day, from every corner of our country, we hear more about the devastation being caused by the opioid crisis - from doctors who are treating babies born addicted to opioids, to parents who have lost children to an overdose, to veterans in chronic pain who are struggling with addiction – unfortunately the list could go on and on.  In my home state of Washington, nearly 10,000 people have died of an opioid overdose since 2000.  That’s 10,000 lives cut short – with countless more families and friends left suffering and picking up the pieces. And I know these heartbreaking numbers are reflective of what’s going on in states all across the country. Because this epidemic does not discriminate—it can reach anyone—and it can reach anywhere. So—the opioid epidemic is a public health crisis as well as an emergency—and I’m very disappointed the Administration not taken any decisive action to address it. What’s needed to make a real difference in the lives of countless patients and families in Washington state and across the country struggling from addiction are real, immediate resources to fight this battle on the ground. And despite the work of the Commission and its recommendations, the Commission failed to identify any additional funding to battle the epidemic. Make no mistake – this epidemic IS an emergency.  Every day 175 Americans die from an opioid overdose.  Yet the administration has been shockingly silent when it comes to identifying resources to address this public health crisis of addiction here at home.  And just to underscore how inadequate this Administration’s response to the opioid crisis has been… Last month, the White House’s own Council of Economic Advisors released a report estimating the economic cost of the opioid crisis to be at over $500 billion dollars—just for 2015. That is six times larger than the most recently estimated economic cost of the opioid epidemic. And let me tell you – this cost is growing more each and every day – and it certainly won’t be addressed by stunts like the president committing to donating his third quarter salary to HHS. It’s long past time for this administration to get serious about this crisis. Now—given the current budget caps, this subcommittee simply has not been able to provide the level of funding needed to make real progress in preventing and treating opioid addiction.  Funding in the LHHS appropriations bills has remained basically level.  But the epidemic has not remained level, it has escalated. Overdose rates continue to soar.  The epidemic is now being driven by synthetic drugs like Fentanyl that are 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine.  And the most recent data suggest that more people are skipping prescription painkillers altogether and going straight to heroin as their first opioid.  Given the scope of the crisis, emergency supplemental funding is desperately needed that will give States and communities the evidence-based tools that could turn this epidemic around. The current situation is unacceptable. And we need more than tough talk from President Trump to address this crisis.  Congress—and patients and families—need this Administration to be an equal partner in fighting this epidemic and unfortunately its actions thus far are simply not enough. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-and-colleagues-introduce-resolution-calling-for-increased-computer-science-education-in-k-12-schools,Kilmer and Colleagues Introduce Resolution Calling for Increased Computer Science Education in K-12 Schools,2017-12-04,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.04.17 Kilmer and Colleagues Introduce Resolution Calling for Increased Computer Science Education in K-12 Schools WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06), joined by Reps. Daniel Lipinski (IL-03), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), and Scott Taylor (VA-02) introduced a resolution calling for an increase in public-private partnerships that expand computer science education to more K-12 classrooms. “Education is the doorway to economic opportunity,” Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06) said. “Efforts to strengthen computer science programs will provide more job opportunities for our kids, more qualified employees for local employers, and more economic resiliency for our communities and our country.  That’s why this resolution makes sense.” ""Right now, only forty percent of schools teach computer programming, even though computing jobs are projected to grow at twice the rate of all other jobs,"" stated Congressman Scott Taylor. ""The job landscape in America is rapidly changing. We need to equip our children with the skills to be competitive in a 21st Century global economy."" “I'm happy to join with Rep. Taylor in introducing this legislation which recognizes the great contributions of so many private institutions who work with our schools to bring more and better computer science learning opportunities to students,"" said Congressman Dan Lipinski. ""This includes organizations like Girls Who Code, which operates clubs that give girls opportunities to develop coding skills and build apps through after-school and weekend programs.  We need partners like this if we’re going to meet the tremendous demand for computer science talent in the job market of today and tomorrow.” “In the 3rd District of Tennessee and around the nation, there are an increasing number of job openings with state-of-the-art technology that require specialized technical training. However, I constantly speak to employers who voice concern that our workforce supply cannot meet this demand. It is estimated that by 2020 there will be 1 million vacant computing jobs with a significant lack of technically trained candidates to fill these positions,” Congressman Fleischmann said. “To address this pressing issue, public and private sectors need to make a greater investment in high skill technical education and workforce development training. This effort must begin in our K-12 classrooms, so we can equip our future generations with the training necessary to fill the increased demand for technical jobs.” It is projected that by 2020 there will be 1.4 million computer-science-related jobs available, but only about 400,000 computer science graduates to fill them, resulting in a $500 billion opportunity gap. According to the Computer Science Education Coalition, in grades K-12 over 60% of students do not have access to Computer Science education, despite the fact 9 out of 10 parents say they want it taught in their children's schools. Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-president-trumps-decision-to-remove-protections-from-millions-of-acres-of-public-land,Kilmer Statement on President Trump’s Decision to Remove Protections from Millions of Acres of Public Land,2017-12-04,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Derek Kilmer,K000381,kilmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.04.17 Kilmer Statement on President Trump’s Decision to Remove Protections from Millions of Acres of Public Land WASHINGTON, DC– Today, Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) made the following statement after President Donald Trump announced he will remove protections from nearly two million acres of public land in Utah: “This is a short-sighted decision that takes us in the wrong direction,” Rep. Derek Kilmer said. “National monuments – in our state and around the nation – have not only protected environmentally and culturally sensitive areas, they have also proven to be significant economic drivers. That’s why Democrats and Republicans have, for decades, supported these designations.  The Administration’s decision will have irreversible consequences that reach far beyond these first two monuments. I am disappointed in this attack on our public lands, and I will continue fighting to protect these national treasures.” Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-responds-supreme-court-order-president-trump-s-muslim-ban,Jayapal Responds to Supreme Court Order on President Trumps Muslim Ban,2017-12-04,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court move allowing President Trump’s Muslim Ban to go into effect: “The reality is, the discriminatory intent behind the Muslim Ban has been on full display on the president’s personal Twitter feed, where just last week he used his platform to spread vile anti-Muslim propaganda. Today’s Supreme Court order ignores the anti-Muslim animus behind the Muslim ban and represents a setback for Americans of all stripes who oppose this injustice. “In the courts, the streets and the halls of Congress, the fight is far from over. The Court’s decision underscores the need for all of us to not only continue challenging this unconstitutional ban in the legal system, but to also show up for our Muslim neighbors, co-workers and friends in every venue and community. We must put into action the values that define the America we know: fairness, inclusion, equality and justice.” Background: Today’s Supreme Court decision allows the revised Muslim ban to be fully enforced while legal challenges move forward in lower courts, including in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which includes Washington state. The countries impacted are Syria, Libya, Iran, Yemen, Chad, Somalia, North Korea and Venezuela. Six of these countries have Muslim majorities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-trump-administrations-unlawful-attack-on-public-lands,Cantwell Statement On Trump Administration’s Unlawful Attack On Public Lands,2017-12-04,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.04.17 Cantwell Statement On Trump Administration’s Unlawful Attack On Public Lands Washington, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) made the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to reduce Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante:  ""Veterans, sportsmen, climbers, hikers and the outdoor economy all depend on open space.  ‎Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante have been driving a vibrant outdoor economy for years. Now President Trump is using unlawful authority to pollute these special places.   His administration deserves an 'F' for stewardship.""  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=FFEB4C71-A7D9-4662-9E97-115B92828D78,Senator Murray Slams President Trumps Attempt to Shrink National Monuments,2017-12-04,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) –  Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after President Trump announced he would drastically shrink the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments, both created under the 1906 Antiquities Act: “Once again, President Trump is taking an unprecedented step—this time, by trying to roll back public land protections and gut the time-honored Antiquities Act-- as a gift to Big Oil and other multi-national corporations. This is deeply disappointing but hardly surprising. Whether we are talking tax cuts, health care or any other issue, it is clear the Trump Administration will leave no stone unturned in its quest to make the rich richer, even if that means chipping away at tribal treaty rights, undermining efforts to combat climate change, or leaving middle class Americans behind.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2234,DelBene Introduces Bill Eliminating Corporate Tax Breaks that Protect Perpetrators of Sexual Misconduct,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) today introduced legislation that would eliminate tax breaks that currently allow corporations to deduct expenses associated with instances of sexual misconduct by their employees. “It is coming into sharp focus that for too long settlements have been paid by powerful figures to victims of sexual misconduct in exchange for their signing non-disclosure agreements, keeping perpetrators’ reputations intact and company names out of headlines. This payment-for-silence system has protected predators, propped up toxic work environments and prevented potential future victims from being informed and able to protect themselves. It’s shameful that our tax code allows corporations to deduct settlement payments, propagating this rampant problem,” DelBene said. “As a society, if we’re going to demand corporations invest in creating an environment and culture that encourages people to come forward and report abuses, we need transparency and accountability, not settlements and silence. That’s why I introduced the Stop Tax Breaks for Sexual Misconduct Act. My bill would make the price for silence steeper for corporations, taking one step toward incentivizing real solutions to end sexual misconduct in the workplace rather than a system of sweeping things under the rug.” Under current law, corporations can deduct settlements paid to victims of sexual misconduct, insurance premiums for sexual misconduct policies and associated attorney’s fees as an “ordinary and necessary expenses.” However, victims who receive settlement payouts or damages in a sexual misconduct case are not currently allowed to exclude those payments from their taxable income, whereas payouts for physical injuries, for example, are excluded from taxable income. DelBene’s bill would: Eliminate the ability of corporations to deduct damages or settlements paid to victims of sexual misconduct by an employee. Eliminate the ability of corporations to deduct attorney’s fees associated with resolving any case of sexual misconduct by an employee. Eliminate the ability of corporations to deduct the cost of sexual misconduct insurance premiums from their federal taxes. Exclude from taxable income any amount received as damages or settlement in a case of sexual misconduct. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Judy Chu (CA-27) are original cosponsors of DelBene’s bill. All three Congresswoman serve on the House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over the tax code. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-intelligence-committee-advances-a-deeply-flawed-nsa-surveillance-bill,House Intelligence Committee Advances a Deeply Flawed NSA Surveillance Bill,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"A bill to extend one of the NSA’s most powerful surveillance tools, and further peel back American civil liberties, was approved today by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence in a strict party line vote (12-8), with Republican members voting in the majority. The committee and the public had less than 48 hours to read and discuss the bill. Democratic committee members openly criticized the short timeframe, amongst other problems.  “This bill was shared with my office less than 24 hours ago, and here we are marking up legislation that has incredibly profound constitutional implications for all Americans,” said Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA). She continued: “We could be sitting here, thoughtfully debating the precarious balance between security and civil liberties and the best path forward, but instead, the majority has decided to do otherwise.” The bill is the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act of 2017, and it was introduced on the evening of November 30 by House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes (R-CA). It is the latest legislative attempt to reauthorize Section 702, one of the NSA’s most powerful surveillance authorities that allows for the targeting and collection of communications of non-U.S. persons not living in the United States. The NSA also uses Section 702 to justify the “incidental” collection of American communications that are predictably swept up during foreign intelligence surveillance, too. The bill has many problems that you can read about here, from potentially restarting one of the NSA’s most invasive forms of surveillance to treating constitutional rights as optional. But instead of probing these privacy defects in the bill, much of the Friday morning hearing was dominated by heated partisan debate around a single topic that one Democratic committee member described as “political dynamite.” That issue is “unmasking,” the process by which the identities of Americans whose communications are collected through the broader FISA law are revealed at request by government officials. The Nunes bill includes several oversight provisions for this process. According to the committee’s Ranking Member Adam Schiff (D-CA), the issue has nothing to do with Section 702, and it has no rightful place in the Nunes bill. Close to one hour into the disagreements, Rep. Denny Heck (D-WA) bemoaned the lost opportunity to have a conversation on the balance between national security and civil liberties. “I’m voting no because I believe that this bill sets up a false choice between whether or not we can be secure, or whether or not we can protect our rights to privacy, especially under the Fourth Amendment,” Rep. Heck said. “Benjamin Franklin famously quipped, and I’m amazed that he has not yet been quoted today, that those who would trade privacy for security deserve neither.” Rep. Heck continued: “I find that the weight of this bill trades off privacy for security, and I believe that is a false choice because I believe we can have both.” We agree. The Nunes bill threatens the privacy of American communications and potentially opens up U.S. persons to an invasive type of NSA surveillance that the agency voluntarily ended this year. The Nunes bill goes backward. Surveillance reform must move forward.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-denny-heck-following-passage-of-bill-to,Statement from Congressman Denny Heck following passage of bill to incentivize abusive practices in manufactured housing sales,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Denny Heck,H001064,dennyheck.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – After the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1699, the Preserving Access to Manufactured Homes Act of 2017, U.S. Representative Denny Heck (WA-10) issued the following statement: “Supporters of this bill claim this change provides more Americans access to affordable housing, but all it does is make our most vulnerable people subject to more predatory practices that often cause them to lose their home. We’ve seen evidence of this already happening, and endorsing this activity will cause even more heartbreak for aspiring homeowners. “Predatory loans, hidden fees, and deceptive lending practices are not a valid part of making the American Dream possible for more families. Let’s work on common sense, bipartisan measures that allow for access to responsible financing towards homeownership, and not take away important protections established by Congress and enforced by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.” The Preserving Access to Manufactured Housing Act makes two big changes to consumer protections for people buying manufactured homes. It would change the definition of a “mortgage originator” so that salesepeople at manufactured home retailers are exempt from the rules on originators even if those salespeople do the same things loan originators do, like assisting them in applying for credit. The bill would also relax the circumstances where special consumer protections kick in on ""high-cost"" loans under Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act (HOEPA).  High-cost is defined as a certain spread above the average prime offering rate (currently 4.25 percent).  Right now, these additional protections for kick in for non-mortgage loans at 10.75 percent (6.5 percentage points above APOR), for loans of $50,000 to $75,000, or 12.75 percent (8.5 points above APOR), for loans under $50,000.  This bill raises the threshold to 14.25 percent (10 points above APOR) for all non-mortgage manufactured-home loans.  The bill would also raise the threshold for high fees that trigger HOEPA protections to the greater of 5 percent of the total transaction amount or $3,000, whichever is greater. According to Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data, obtained from the Consumer Bureau, this new interest rate trigger would have exempted 58 percent of manufactured home loans originated in 2013 from HOEPA protections. A joint investigation by The Seattle Times and Center for Public Integrity found that Clayton Homes, the largest manufactured homebuilder in the United States, trapped low-income borrowers with loans for manufactured homes they could not afford and eventually took away their home. Heck is a member of the House Financial Services Committee and voted against the Preserving Access to Manufactured Homes Act of 2015, which passed the House on April 14, 2015. The bill did not pass the Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-offers-amendment-to-ensure-tax-fairness-protect-middle-class-from-being-taxed-twice-on-their-paychecks,"Cantwell, Menendez, Van Hollen Offer Amendment to Ensure Tax Fairness, Protect Middle Class from Being Taxed Twice on Their Paychecks",2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.01.17 Cantwell, Menendez, Van Hollen Offer Amendment to Ensure Tax Fairness, Protect Middle Class from Being Taxed Twice on Their Paychecks WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, as tax reform takes center stage in Congress, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) offered a provision to keep in place the State and Local Tax (SALT) deductions, protecting taxpayers from paying taxes twice on every dollar they earn. As part of their legislation, Republicans have eliminated the SALT deductions for taxpayers to help pay for their massive tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy. Currently, taxpayers pay state and local tax – whether it’s property, income, or sales tax – and they are able to deduct that amount from their federal income taxes. Without the SALT deductions, taxpayers would be taxed multiple times on the same income. “Washington state has one of the most unique tax codes in the country and our economy has grown faster than the national average every year since WWII,” said Senator Cantwell. “Giving away the State and Local Tax Deduction to pay for a corporate tax break will hurt my state’s economy and the more than 1.1 million Washingtonians that use this deduction, the vast majority of whom are in the middle class. We are a great society in the United States of America, but we shouldn't be a one percent society. We should have a tax code that boosts the middle class and grows the economy from the middle out.” “Senate Republicans are on the verge of passing a tax plan that reads like one giant hit-job on New Jersey’s middle class,” said Senator Menendez. “Gutting the state and local tax deduction will literally force millions of hardworking families in states like New Jersey to pay taxes twice on the same money.  And Republicans are only rubbing salt in their wounds by letting corporations keep this deduction on top of the all the tax cuts they already get. It’s wrong to ask hardworking families who had to fight their way into the middle class to pay more just so that multinational corporations can pay less.”  “The Republican Tax Bill is a punch in the gut for working American families. One of the biggest blows comes from eliminating the state and local tax deduction,” said Senator Van Hollen. “This deduction helps millions of people in Maryland and across the country – and getting rid of it is a direct hit on the pocketbooks the middle class families. It also would tie the hands of state and local governments, which provide critical services in every community across America. This is not a partisan issue, and I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.” The Cantwell-Menendez-Van Hollen measure would strike the provision to repeal the State and Local Tax Deduction, preventing the proposed Republican plan to raise taxes on middle class families by double-taxing income already taxed at the state or local level. The amendment offsets this change by raising the tax on money that corporations currently hold overseas. The Senators were joined in introducing the amendment by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Tom Udall (D-NM). Families from all 50 states enjoy much-needed tax relief from SALT deductions. According to the Government Finance Officers Association, more than 30 percent of taxpayers benefitted from the SALT deductions, making SALT deductions a key element in providing tax relief to middle class families. Only 21 percent of taxpayers used the deduction for mortgage interest, and 15 percent of taxpayers used the deduction for charitable donations. According to the IRS, 86 percent of taxpayers claiming SALT deductions make under $200,000 and 56 percent of taxpayers claiming the deduction make under $100,000. In October, Cantwell and Van Hollen offered an amendment to preserve the SALT deduction during Senate consideration of the FY2017 Budget Resolution. A copy of the amendment can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-bill-to-improve-safety-and-sanitation-at-columbia-river-tribal-fishing-sites,Senate Passes Bill to Improve Safety and Sanitation at Columbia River Tribal Fishing Sites,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Maria Cantwell,C000127,www.cantwell.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.01.17 Senate Passes Bill to Improve Safety and Sanitation at Columbia River Tribal Fishing Sites WASHINGTON, D.C. –  With unanimous support, the U.S. Senate has passed the Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement Act. The legislation, which is sponsored by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), would enable the Bureau of Indian Affairs to make important safety and sanitation improvements at the tribal treaty fishing access sites along the Columbia River, which are on lands held by the United States for the benefit of the four Columbia River Treaty tribes. The next step would be for the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the legislation, before being sent to the President for his signature. “This is a positive step on our long road to properly honor our obligations to the Columbia River Treaty Tribes,” said Senator Murray. “It’s so important that we continue to make progress to provide safe, sanitary housing and infrastructure at these fishing access sites, so tribal members can exercise their protected rights.” “These Tribal members’ way of life was washed away when the Bonneville dam went up. Since then, few steps have been taken to right this wrong,” said Senator Cantwell. “By improving housing conditions for these Tribes, we can begin to fulfill long-overdue promises. I encourage our House colleagues to quickly take up this bill so we can begin to improve conditions at existing sites” Beginning in the 1930s, the construction of the three lower Columbia River dams displaced members of the four Columbia River Treaty tribes: Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Nez Perce Tribe, and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. These tribes have a treaty-protected right to fish along the Columbia River in their usual and accustomed places. The Senators have been fighting to address the urgent need for adequate housing and infrastructure at tribal fishing access sites constructed by the Army Corps following construction of The Dalles, Bonneville, and John Day dams. The Army Corps designed the sites to be used primarily for daily, in-season fishing access and temporary camping; however, in many cases tribal members now use the areas as longer-term or even permanent residences. In fact, many people at these sites are living in extremely distressed, unsafe, and unsanitary conditions, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs has not committed the resources necessary to ensure the basic necessities of clean and safe living conditions at these sites. While the Senators have been working to move forward with a plan that would fulfill the federal government’s unmet obligation to provide permanent replacement housing for tribal members living at the fishing sites, the Trump administration’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently halted work on that plan. The Senators have pushed OMB to reverse its decision. In the meantime, the delay makes improving conditions at existing sites all the more critical.   The Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement Act  would address the urgent need for improved conditions by: Calling on the Bureau of Indian Affairs to conduct a much-needed assessment of current safety and sanitation conditions at the sites, in coordination with the affected Columbia River Treaty Tribes; and Authorizing the Bureau to work on improving sanitation and safety conditions in several key areas such as structural improvements (restrooms, washrooms, and other buildings); safety improvements (wells and infrastructure to address fire concerns, and more); electrical infrastructure to ensure safe electrical hookups; and basic sewer and septic infrastructure. The legislation is supported by the four Columbia River Treaty tribes—Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Nez Perce Tribe, and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation—as well as the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=4BAB289E-A828-48CD-B0D3-4EEEB763820A,Senate Passes Bill to Improve Safety and Sanitation at Columbia River Tribal Fishing Sites,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) –  With unanimous support, the U.S. Senate has passed the Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement Act. The legislation, which is sponsored by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), would enable the Bureau of Indian Affairs to make important safety and sanitation improvements at the tribal treaty fishing access sites along the Columbia River, which are on lands held by the United States for the benefit of the four Columbia River Treaty tribes. The next step would be for the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the legislation, before being sent to the President for his signature. “This is a positive step on our long road to properly honor our obligations to the Columbia River Treaty Tribes,” said Senator Murray. “It’s so important that we continue to make progress to provide safe, sanitary housing and infrastructure at these fishing access sites, so tribal members can exercise their protected rights.” “These Tribal members’ way of life was washed away when the Bonneville dam went up. Since then, few steps have been taken to right this wrong,” said Senator Cantwell. “By improving housing conditions for these Tribes, we can begin to fulfill long-overdue promises. I encourage our House colleagues to quickly take up this bill so we can begin to improve conditions at existing sites” Beginning in the 1930s, the construction of the three lower Columbia River dams displaced members of the four Columbia River Treaty tribes: Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Nez Perce Tribe, and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. These tribes have a treaty-protected right to fish along the Columbia River in their usual and accustomed places. The Senators have been fighting to address the urgent need for adequate housing and infrastructure at tribal fishing access sites constructed by the Army Corps following construction of The Dalles, Bonneville, and John Day dams. The Army Corps designed the sites to be used primarily for daily, in-season fishing access and temporary camping; however, in many cases tribal members now use the areas as longer-term or even permanent residences. In fact, many people at these sites are living in extremely distressed, unsafe, and unsanitary conditions, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs has not committed the resources necessary to ensure the basic necessities of clean and safe living conditions at these sites. While the Senators have been working to move forward with a plan that would fulfill the federal government’s unmet obligation to provide permanent replacement housing for tribal members living at the fishing sites, the Trump administration’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently halted work on that plan. The Senators have pushed OMB to reverse its decision. In the meantime, the delay makes improving conditions at existing sites all the more critical.   The Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement Act  would address the urgent need for improved conditions by: Calling on the Bureau of Indian Affairs to conduct a much-needed assessment of current safety and sanitation conditions at the sites, in coordination with the affected Columbia River Treaty Tribes; and Authorizing the Bureau to work on improving sanitation and safety conditions in several key areas such as structural improvements (restrooms, washrooms, and other buildings); safety improvements (wells and infrastructure to address fire concerns, and more); electrical infrastructure to ensure safe electrical hookups; and basic sewer and septic infrastructure. The legislation is supported by the four Columbia River Treaty tribes—Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Nez Perce Tribe, and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation—as well as the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z