url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8184,Congressional Oversight Commission Publishes Eighth Report,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressional Oversight Commission Publishes Eighth Report f t # e Washington, December 31, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C. The members of the bipartisan Congressional Oversight Commission have published their eighth report.It is available for review here. The Commission's seven previous reports are also available for review at theCongressional Oversight Commission's website. The Congressional Oversight Commission is a five-person panel that was established by the CARES Act. The Commission is focused specifically on the economic stabilization efforts of the Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve. The members of the commission are Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), Congresswoman Donna Shalala (D-Fla.), and Congressman French Hill (R-Ark.) Commissioner Bharat Ramamurti recently announced he would be joining President-Elect Biden's Administration as the Deputy Director of the National Economic Council and stepped down from his role on the Commission. The Commission's chairperson has not been appointed yet. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8182,Hill Votes to Support Military Families and Stand Up to the Communist Chinese Party,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill Votes to Support Military Families and Stand Up to the Communist Chinese Party f t # e Washington, December 28, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C. Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) issued the following statement after voting to override President Trump's veto of the National Defense Authorization Act. This year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) supports our brave men and women in uniform and their families and sends a strong message to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that we will go to great lengths to protect America and our allies. China poses the greatest threat to America today and the greatest threat to democracy and freedom worldwide since World War II. While I share the president's and many in Congress's concern about social media companies being protected from legal scrutiny by way of the Communications Decency Act in Section 230 and its exploitation by Big Tech, I believe Congress must assess exactly what the corrective step is and how it best fits with the other ongoing investigations of ""Big Tech"" and the social media platforms on and off the Hill. Despite the president's criticism of this measure, I voted to override his veto because we need to fund the military and this legislation, contrary to some views, is tough on China. This year's NDAA includes 43 policy recommendations from the China Task Force report, including a new Pacific Deterrence Initiative, which aims to establish a regionwide approach to countering China. It also beefs up the U.S. Government's oversight tools to address the CCP's human rights abuses and support for Taiwan. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that our nation is secure and has the resources it needs to keep the American people safe. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8183,"Hill: “We must focus our resources to assist families, individuals, small businesses, and working Arkansans”",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill: We must focus our resources to assist families, individuals, small businesses, and working Arkansans f t # e Washington, December 28, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C. Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) issued the following statement after voting against amending the Consolidated Appropriations Act to increase Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) to $2,000 per individual: We must focus our resources to assist families, individuals, small businesses, and working Arkansans and Americans in the most effective way possible. Increasing EIPs to $2,000 per individual will not serve to benefit our economy in the long-run. It is not the most optimal form of relief for the American people, who need immediate support. Without this amendment, the bipartisan Consolidated Appropriations Act includes much-needed rental assistance. It extends the Paycheck Protection Program, which will keep more small business employees earning wages. It increases unemployment benefits for those struggling to find work as a result of the pandemic. It provides $2,400 of EIPs to a family of four. Finally, it will give our governors the flexibility to spend unused CARES Act funds. Although I voted in favor of the Consolidated Appropriations Act in order to provide relief to the people of Arkansas in a timely manner, the $600 EIPs should have been better targeted to Americans who are truly suffering from the negative impact of the pandemic. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404286,"Congressman Womack Supports Troops, U.S. National Security",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Steve Womack,W000809,womack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Womack Supports Troops, U.S. National Security f t # e Washington, December 28, 2020 Washington, DCDecember 28, 2020.Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the below statement after supporting our troops and national security by voting to override the executive veto of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021. The legislation, which contains several Womack-supported provisions, authorizes $740.5 billion for national defense initiatives. It includes resources to equip our troops, support military families, enhance defense capabilities, strengthen military readiness, and modernize the force: The NDAA is vital to the security of our nation and supports the men and women in uniform who stand watch over freedom. This year's legislation contains raises for our troops, bolsters cybersecurity defenses, confronts emerging threats from China and Russia, and invests in Arkansas's military installations. It enhances the safety and defense of our homeland and ensures our armed forces remain the most superior fighting force in the world. I agree that we need to reform Section 230 policy provisions, but opposing this legislation is not the right way to address it. We can't deprive our military of the resources needed to secure our country and put us on a stronger path forward. Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas's Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. womack.house.gov ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/navigating-the-changing-landscape-to-deliver-help,Navigating the Changing Landscape to Deliver Help,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"This year brought incredible challenges. COVID-19 protocols required many of us to change the way we live and work and that meant finding a way for my staff and I to continue deliver critical help and provide answers to questions about federal agencies. Constituent service is alwaysmy toppriority but there was an increased sense of urgency to solve problems Arkansans faced as a result of this crisis. Last spring, my staff fielded thousands of calls from people who were desperate for information about their Economic Impact Payment. The volume of calls and emails was so heavy that we couldn't record them all. Out of all of the calls for help, 355 of them resulted in direct inquires with the IRS to track down lost payments and tax returns. The outreach we did on behalf of Arkansans with the agency increased 706 percent from last year. More Arkansans asked for assistance with the Department of State. In 2020, we received 230 requests for help, an increase of137 percent from 2019.Many of those cases were citizens who were stuck overseas after borders were closed in order to stop the spread of COVID-19. Repatriation efforts dominated the State Department's work for many months and we helped Arkansans return home from all over the world. Other troubles Arkansans have experienced has required congressional action. For example, many veterans are required to complete a compensation and pension (C&P) exam to verify their medical condition when applying for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. Because the VA paused in-person exams for a period of time, the backlog has grown and it's delayed benefits. I introduced a bill to increase the number of health care providers who are allowed to conduct these health assessments. Congress passed it and it's headed to the President's desk to be signed into law. Veterans have also experienced delays in getting their service records from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC). My staff relies on this office to get veterans' records that are needed when filing for a wide range of VA benefits. The facility has limited the number of employees allowed to work in the large archive because of COVID-19. Right now, it's operating at less than 10 percent of normal capacity and staff is only servicing emergency cases. This has resulted in a nearly 120 percent increase in claims and appeals waiting on federal records. It is unreasonable that veterans must wait months for their records. Congress recently increased funding for the NPRC so it can expand its remote work capability in order to address the backlog. While working in an evolving landscape and delivering the services we're recognized for, I was still able to visit with health care heroes, small business owners and school officials across 50 counties to see how federal COVID-19 relief programs are supporting the needs of Arkansans and learn what improvements can be made. While some federal agencies are struggling to meet the changing demands of their services, my staff and I remain committed to doing all we can to help during these challenging times. We will continue to push for answers for Arkansans who need us as our nation, and the world, look to a brighter year ahead.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-statement-on-death-of-loyd-phillips,Boozman Statement on Death of Loyd Phillips,2020-12-27,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) released the following statement on the death of Loyd Phillips: There's such a loss at the passing of one of the greatest Arkansas athletes, Loyd Phillips. More importantly, Loyd was as equally gifted as a school administrator who influenced countless young people in such a positive way. Loyd was my boyhood hero as a ferocious football player, and he remained a great example for us all through his work with youth. I truly valued his friendship and will always remember this remarkable unassuming person who accomplished so much. My thoughts and prayers are with Betsy and the rest of his family as we mourn his loss.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/reflecting-2020,Reflecting on 2020,2020-12-25,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,,,legacy,"None of us could have foreseen what 2020 held. It's been a difficult year, filled with unexpected challenges. Yet through it all, I've been so impressed by the resilience of Arkansans and the ways we've come together and supported our communities. That is the beauty of America, and I believe it's why we have reasons to be grateful even after a hard few months. Any attempt to recap this year must first start with a thank you to all our essential workers. Health care professionals, first responders, grocery store clerks, farmers, truck drivers, mail carriers, processing plant workers, and many others you all saved lives, kept our shelves stocked, protected our neighborhoods, and kept showing up for your jobs day after day. Thank you for your faithful service to millions of people throughout the year. Even though the pandemic limited in-person visits, I was still able to meet and visit with many of you via Zoom or other online platforms. It's a blessing to have this technology to still keep us connected! I also traveled around the district over the summer to thank some of the everyday heroes who kept us going during the shutdowns, and I got to hold my annual farm tour where I visited with some of our incredible agriculture workers. Back in D.C., I got to work on some important legislation that directly impacts Arkansas. The Trillion Trees Act, which I introduced in March, will incentivize the use of wood products as carbon sequestration devices, as well as plant 1 trillion trees globally by 2050. The Fair Care Act is another significant piece of legislation that I've been working on for several years, and I introduced the second version of the bill in October. It draws on conversations that I've had with many of you, and would give Americans greater choice in their health care decisions at a lower cost. U.S. Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) introduced the same bill in the Senate. As we look forward to 2021, I'm grateful for the promise of a vaccine and hope on the horizon. I hope you have a blessed Christmas season with friends and family.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/nwa-adg-editorial-giving-it-a-shot,NWA ADG: EDITORIAL: Giving it a shot,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Sen. John Boozman rolled up his sleeve Saturday and did his best imitation of a pin cushion: He got stuck with a needle carrying the vaccine that will eventually give him immunity from covid-19. The state's senior senator praised the ""American ingenuity and investment"" that led to vaccines that will, soon, give us all a chance to return some normalcy -- whatever that looks like -- to our lives. ""As our state begins to distribute doses,"" the former ophthalmologist said through Twitter, ""I encourage Arkansans to follow the advice of our health care professionals, who have overwhelmingly expressed confidence in the vaccine. I firmly believe we can put our trust in it."" Full story (subscription required):https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/dec/23/nwa-editorial-giving-it-a-shot/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/what-they-are-saying-covid-19-response,On the Record: COVID-19 Response,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Here's a round-up of some of my public comments about the new coronavirus (COVID-19), including how my colleagues in the Senate and I are responding to this crisis. U.S. Sen. John Boozman rolled up his sleeve Saturday and did his best imitation of a pin cushion: He got stuck with a needle carrying the vaccine that will eventually give him immunity from covid-19. The state's senior senator praised the ""American ingenuity and investment"" that led to vaccines that will, soon, give us all a chance to return some normalcy -- whatever that looks like -- to our lives. ""As our state begins to distribute doses,"" the former ophthalmologist said through Twitter, ""I encourage Arkansans to follow the advice of our health care professionals, who have overwhelmingly expressed confidence in the vaccine. I firmly believe we can put our trust in it."" A U.S. senator from Arkansas announced Saturday morning that he got the vaccine to protect against COVID-19. In a post on Senator John Boozman's Facebook page, he said he decided to get it following the recommendation of the Office of the Attending Physician. He added that this puts us on the path to normalcy.We can all be proud of the American ingenuity and investment that has resulted in this lifesaving vaccine, Boozman said. He then urged Arkansans to follow the advice of health care professionals on the overwhelmingly expressed confidence they have in the vaccine.I firmly believe we can put our trust in it, he said. Boozman said he recognizes that some people have doubts about the vaccine. As a health care professional -- Boozman has been an optometrist for decades -- he said he has confidence in the medical experts who have created the vaccine and approved its use. ""I would really encourage my fellow Arkansans to get the vaccine. This is the path that we can take to get back to normalcy,"" he said. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted emergency use authorization on Dec. 11 for the Pfizer vaccine; developers say it is 95% effective. The company is scheduled to deliver 100 million U.S. doses by the end of March. The Associated Press reported Friday that the FDA had also approved another vaccine, this one developed by Moderna Inc. and the National Institutes of Health. Boozman said he hesitated before agreeing to be vaccinated, wondering if he should wait and get it in Arkansas when it becomes more readily available. Ultimately, he decided to get the shot now. By stepping forward, he said he hoped to convince people who are on the fence about getting vaccinated. ""[We] can be so proud, as a country, that we were on the cutting edge of doing this. It just shows American ingenuity and our scientists and our health care providers are the best in the world,"" he said. At the moment, Boozman and other senators are waiting to see how congressional leaders and the White House negotiate a possible coronavirus aid package. At least some lawmakers have coalesced around a $908 billion package that is viewed as a starting point for final negotiations. That package includes $26 billion for nutrition and agriculture. ""I hope that, you know, in the next day or two, we can come up with a good compromise that helps,"" Boozman told DTN in a phone interview. ""Certainly, our schools or businesses, particularly small businesses, making sure that our health care providers have all of the resources that they need to fight the virus that's going on as we speak. But also to make sure that, as far as vaccination delivery, all of those kind of things are adequately funded. And I feel sure that they will be, but it's something that we need to come to an agreement."" As Boozman met with hospital officials, the Arkansas Department of Health reported Craighead County had 130 confirmed new cases of COVID-19, 18 more probable cases and one death; Greene County had 52 confirmed and 18 probable new cases and Lawrence County had 17 confirmed and eight probable new cases. Active cases totaled 854 in Craighead, 527 in Greene and 110 in Lawrence County. Boozman also said that as far as the federal government and legislature is concerned, the best thing that can be done to help the state and the country is to continue to provide funding to hospitals to help them fight COVID-19. And we are getting advice on what to work on in the future, he said. But right now, it's money. Boozman acknowledged the existence of two proposed stimulus packages in the Congress, one which would provide $908 billion in aid, and a smaller one of $500 billion. I like the $500 billion version he said, because it's more targeted. As reported by the Seattle Times on Dec. 3, the $908 billion package has bipartisan support. Boozman said he expected a final package would likely be somewhere between the two figures. And this is not a stimulus package, he said. It's a survival package. As for what he would do differently from what Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson has done in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Boozman had nothing but praise for the governor. The governor has done a tremendous job in a difficult situation, he said. He's been dealing with issues no one else has had to deal with. The White House Coronavirus Task Force reports that Arkansas remains in the red zone for new coronavirus cases and 88 percent of the state's counties have moderate or high community transmission of the virus. The Task Force ranked Arkansas 24th in the country for new cases per capita. The state's test positivity ranked 30th, according to the panel, which again recommended restaurants in the state limit indoor dining capacity to less than 25 percent, a proposal Hutchinson has rejected as virus cases and COVID-19 hospitalizations have reached record levels. Boozman noted the federal government has provided the state $1.25 billion to help fight the pandemic. The challenge now is the vaccine, he said. Senator John Boozman visited a few places in Region 8 to get input from people on the front lines to ultimately designate where money will be spent in the future. Friday morning, Senator Boozman visited with administrators at Arkansas Methodist Medical Center in Paragould and other officials.The meeting lasted a little over an hour, and they wasted no time bringing up the hospital's concerns. AMMC said their insurance reimbursement is low.For example, a nine-day patient stay for a right ankle fracture costs $32,144. They were reimbursed $8.34.Hospital officials said this is a threat to rural or small hospitals. Whatever problems the hospital has is intervening on their behalf. The one thing I can do is have people take those phone calls, discuss it, and the good news is the hospital's in the right, Boozman said when asked about his plans for the issue. The hospital's officials also shed light on psychological stress among all employees and how no one was paying attention to it.President Barry Davis commended all of their hard work and said they have not hired travel nurses to take the workload but offered their staff incentives. He also mentioned worrying about the upcoming surge of COVID-19 cases projected to come in March 2021.Davis admitted he's disappointed at a national level at no unified response to the virus, saying discussions became political. The meeting also included a discussion regarding a COVID-19 vaccine. Senator Boozman supports the vaccine and hopes to see it available soon. The way to get back to normalcy, which we definitely all want to do, is to take the vaccine. We can be so proud as a nation, he said. When I talk to the people at NIH, the people who have worked so hard on this, no one thought it was humanly possible to develop a vaccine in the amount of time that we have. He added that he's very comfortable with the vaccine and said he's grown up with vaccines with various diseases. Senator Boozman said he is leaning towards the new economic bill worth $500 billion. He said it reprograms helping hospitals, schools, and small businesses. Thursday was a busy day for U.S. Sen. John Boozman, who traveled across the region to visit with schools and discuss what they need to succeed. Fort Smith was the third and final stop for Boozman on Thursday. The senator spoke about his Fort Smith roots, having grown up in the area and gone to Fort Smith Public Schools (FSPS).Greenwood Superintendent John Ciesla joined the conference by phone while FSPS Superintendent Doug Brubaker was present with other members of FSPS administration. Boozman started the conversation by asking the status of virtual school and what percentage of students were enrolled in that option as well as asking if there were students returning to in-class instruction... ...Boozman stated that he knows there is not a one-size-fits-all solution for schools in Arkansas, but he also noted that nutrition was a unifying theme in several districts. His hope for traveling across the state is to see what individual districts of all sizes need in order to do well. Senator John Boozman met with school leaders to make sure kids are getting all the food that they need during the pandemic. He visited with school officials in Pike, Montgomery and Sebastian counties today.At the meetings, they discussed federal school nutrition programs. The USDA has recently relaxed some rules that help make sure children continue to get school meals throughout the rest of the year even if they are learning virtually. I want to know how those are working and also if there's other things we need to provide additional flexibility regarding meals or really any other things as we go forward with additional legislation, Boozman said. Boozman said they also discussed other needs like PPE and access to vaccines. Sen. John Boozman, who is set to take over as the top Republican on the Senate Ag Committee, next year is optimistic that Congress will provide more aid to farmers for the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The question is when a new aid package will pass, and that looks unlikely before the election. I don't think we're going to have a lot of partisanship in getting additional ag funding, Boozman, R-Ark., said. Both Democrats and Republicans support providing about $20 billion in additional aid to the ag sector. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., who is in line to become the top Republican on the Senate Agriculture Committee next year, told Agri-Pulse on Tuesday he expects bipartisan support for the ag provisions, although the House and Senate have taken different approaches. I don't think anything is going to be done between now and the election. On the other hand, myself, Sen. (Pat) Roberts, Sen. (John) Hoeven and several others have been working really hard to make sure that ag is part of the next package that we do after we come back, Boozman said. Roberts, R-Kan., chairs the Senate Ag Committee now, and Hoeven, R-N.D., chairs the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee. Boozman said that the Agriculture Department has sufficient funding currently to address farmers' immediate needs, including making payments under the second round of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. U.S Senator John Boozman met with the fire chiefs in Northwest Arkansas today to learn how they are serving their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The senator got the hear what kind of challenges they face and how fire stations are adapting to health guidelines. These things like having a great fire department which we are so blessed with in Arkansas, it's like turning on the lights we just take it for granted, Boozman said. Boozman went on to thank the fire teams for continuing to keep our communities safe. The Trump administrations carries out a major piece of its regulatory reform agenda this week, while some lawmakers hold out hope for breaking an impasse over a coronavirus relief package... ...Perdue has been under pressure from members of Congress to expand the list of commodities that are eligible for the program. Arkansas Sen. John Boozman, who is in line to become the top Republican on the Senate Agriculture Committee next year, told Agri-Pulse he still hoped a new coronavirus aid package can get enacted before the election, but he noted that Perdue has plenty of money available to make the CFAP-2 payments. Senate Republicans on Thursday failed to advance their substantially scaled-back stimulus plan amid opposition from Democrats who called the measure inadequate, further darkening the already dim prospects that Congress will enact another economic recovery measure to address the toll of the coronavirus pandemic before November's election... ...In a written statement, U.S. Rep. John Boozman, R-Ark., called the vote a ""disappointing development."" ""Instead of delivering a result, our Democratic colleagues chose to block progress on this package while also refusing to negotiate on any realistic solutions that stand a chance of becoming law,"" he said. ""I'm certain the frustration I feel about this lack of cooperation is shared by Arkansans and others across the country,"" he said. When U.S. Sen. John Boozman stood in front of officials and frontline workers employed at White River Health System, his message was not only of praise for the efforts that have been put forth, but also gave a glimpse of what is to come. He also answered a few tough questions during his visit, which was held on the campus of the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville. Boozman said there is no timetable on a vaccine to combat COVID-19. This disease is unique, and so acquiring a vaccine, we want to make sure that it works, that it's safe, and so it's really difficult to do, Boozman said. So the timeline we are on right now is very, very advanced. Hopefully, we'll have something at the first of the year. Boozman shot down any ideas that the virus was politically motivated. I think when you look at the timeline we are on, no one thought it was humanly possible to be as far along as we are, Boozman said. On the other hand, it's like when you're building a home. When you frame it, it goes really fast. When you get to the finish work, we are doing the finish work now. I don't think it's politicized. Boozman added that people should be proud of the world that the National Institute of Health is doing. Everyone is working hard, Boozman said. The good news is that the mortality rate has come way down because of the treatments that are out there now. Our providers are doing such a good job of using their experience that they have gained to keep people healthy. Sen. John Boozman told Unity Health officials Wednesday there is still a lot of money in the pipeline to make sure health care workers have the resources going forward to do a great job protecting themselves and to provide the best patient care imaginable. Boozman, Arkansas' senior U.S. senator, spent the early morning at Unity Health's south campus on Main Street thanking health care workers on the front line for all they have been doing in the age of COVID-19. In the CARES [Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security] Act, a lot of money was provided, Boozman said. ... When you talk about those kind of sums, it's actually difficult to push it through the channel, so we push it out of the federal government into the state sometimes directly but it just takes a while to get through that pipeline, so there's still dollars in the pipeline. We are in the process now of discussing what we're going to do in the future. I think what you will see coming up is a number of smaller bills, very targeted bills. Supporting community health and hospitals and education are things both Democrats and Republicans agree on, explained Boozman, who is a Republican. You have to remember we have probably spent close to 3 trillion dollars at this point, he said. In the senate that was unanimous. That was the Democrats and the Republicans working together, coming up, trying to come up with solutions to a very difficult problem. U.S. Senator John Boozman is spending the next few days visiting different parts of Arkansas to talk with and thank frontline health care workers for the work they're doing to care for and help Arkansans during COVID-19. The past two days have been in southwest Arkansas, including Hope. We're certainly grateful for them all the time, but especially amid a public health crisis. I also appreciate the opportunity to hear feedback and concerns directly from these health care heroes as we work to address their needs in future relief legislation in the Senate, Boozman said. Tuesday, the senator made stops in Texarkana with representatives from CHRISTUS St. Michael, UAMS Southwest Regional Campus Texarkana, andWadley Regional Medical Center; in Hope at Pafford Medical Services; in Nashville atHoward Memorial Hospital; and Malvern atBaptist Health Medical Center. Monday night, he had dinner with personnel from Little River Memorial Hospital in Ashdown to wrap up Day 1. It's a real privilege to be able to thank these men and women for the job they're doing and also hear from them about ways I, my staff and the federal government can support them as they wage this incredibly important fight against COVID-19. I'm happy to be getting to offer my thanks and appreciation in person as well as listen to their experiences and learn about what more we can do to help them do their jobs more effectively, the Senator added. Senator Boozman and his staff Tuesday stopped by for a visit at the Pafford Corporate Office in Hope. In a statement, Pafford said, We appreciate the Senator for taking time to visit with our crews, listen to concerns regarding the VA, and taking notes on other issues ambulance providers face on a daily basis as we are the healthcare safety net in so many of our communities during this global pandemic.Thank you to Rep. Danny Watson for joining us today as well and continuing to be a voice for our region. Arkansas Senator John Boozman visited UAMS Family Medical Center- Texarkana on Wednesday morning. Senator Boozman thanked frontline workers and spoke with hospital officials to make sure the medical centers have all the resources they need. UAMS Health Family Medicine Physician Russell E. Mayo, M.D. says it's important for the senator to understand what obstacles they face in this pandemic. One of those obstacles is testing supplies due to the spike in cases across the country. The senator said a new testing option is on the way to help ease the shortage. In the not too distant future, we will actually have testing that you can do in five to 15 minutes, salvia test, $1 to $5 that you can buy in the local store, said Boozman. There should be a better situation in a couple of months. According to Boozman, the concerns are the same statewide for medical centers of all sizes. He says hospitals are in reasonable shape with personal protection equipment and funding. He is currently seeking additional funding to make sure it stays that way. Senator Boozman's done a good job at representing Arkansas through the pandemic, said Texarkana, Arkansas Mayor Allen Brown. United States Sen. John Boozman anticipates further hospital assistance from government officials is on the way. Boozman, during a meeting Tuesday morning with healthcare workers at Mercy Hospital-Booneville, said he anticipates legislation at state and federal levels is coming soon to hospitals in Arkansas. He said he expects the legislation will provide assistance to hospitals while enabling them to continue measures that have worked during the pandemic. Logan County on Tuesday afternoon had 105 active COVID-19 cases. This total follows an outbreak at the Booneville Human Development Center, which at one point reported 66 active cases between staff and clients. Dr. Syed Hamed reported at least six people required hospitalization from that outbreak. Mercy officials at the meeting said rural hospitals like Mercy-Booneville allow for patients in their communities that contract COVID-19 to receive treatment without being moved to larger communities like Fort Smith. Boozman said lawmakers are looking at the future functions of hospitals and healthcare professionals in light of needs that have been uncovered during the pandemic. He said he wants rural communities to keep healthcare so they can provide services to people in proximity. Mercy officials told Boozman they would like to see aspects of healthcare during COVID-19 such as telemedicine and the waiving of medicare replacement policies to stay the same. The way you can help us is, as you're doing now, keep giving us a list as to what you've found helpful, because we really have been able to move quickly from the government compared to how we have in the past with these emergency declarations, which really makes your life easier, Boozman said. Boozman said the federal government is spending a tremendous amount of money on COVID-19 testing. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a senior member of theSenate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, urged U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to continue providing flexibilities to schools and sponsoring organizations for school meals and child nutrition. Boozman and his colleagues sent the letter to Secretary Perdue to ensure students have access to healthy, nutritious meals through USDA's child nutrition programsthis school year. As the school year begins, the challenges brought on by the COVID emergency persist. We encourage continued use of the child nutrition program waiver authority ably used thus far to assist school food authorities and non-school sponsoring organizations who work collaboratively to provide children meals while schools explore various and blended models of in-person and virtual classroom sessions,the Senators wrote in the letter.During this COVID emergency, we ask USDA to utilize program flexibilities, grants or reimbursements that assist school food authorities with procuring, preparing, and serving meals in a manner consistent with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 school re-opening guidelines and that support non-school sponsors providing meals to children on remote-learning days or when in-classroom learning is unavailable. Leadership shared a glimpse of the Rogers School District's fall opening plan with U.S. Sen. John Boozman during his visit Friday to Northside Elementary. The school was chosen to give Boozman, R-Ark., an opportunity to see the building's major renovation, said Ashley Kelley Siwiec, district communications director.The renovation cost about $6.7 million, said Charles Lee, assistant superintendent for general administration. Superintendent Marlin Berry said the project was comprehensive and included new flooring, ceilings, cabinetry and a heating and cooling system.Boozman's toured the cafeteria, halls and a classroom to see how the spaces will be configured to help prevent the spread of covid-19... ...""The bottom line is we just have to think outside the box,"" Boozman said, adding it's clear the district is doing so. ""You've thought of everything."" Boozman said the school year will have to be addressed on a day-to-day basis.""I feel very strongly that we can make something work,"" he said. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton and Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack, and Bruce Westerman announcedthat theU.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)provided Arkansas Public Housing Agencies $3,458,460 in funding to support the prevention, preparation, and response to the coronavirus pandemic in public housing. As Arkansas continues to combat the impacts of COVID-19, it is important to put resources in the hands of our communities. These investments will provide locally-driven assistance to help protect and assist families and individuals in need throughout the Natural State,members said. Arkansas delegation is urgingthe U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to amend eligibility thresholds when determining the high-impact payments through the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund. Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) led aletteralongside U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton and Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, and Bruce Westerman to HHS hoping to ensure hospitals who saw late surges in hospitalizations can qualify to receive assistance. We strongly urge you to take into account states that saw surges in patients in late June and July when determining distribution of payments for high-impact areas,the members wrote. Congress and the Administration acted swiftly to allocate resources as quickly as possible, and as this pandemic continues to change and impact different parts of this country, it is imperative that our policies remain flexible and the vast resources provided continue to make the most impact. Today Senator Boozman took a trip to the Veterans Healthcare System of the Ozarks (VHSO) Friday (Aug. 7). Boozman says he wanted to make sure VHSO staff knows they are appreciated, and he wanted to ensure they have the materials and resources needed to keep themselves safe and to treat our veterans. Senator Boozman says it is important to listen to those on the front-lines and to learn from them during this pandemic. We need to be talking to the people on the ground who are actually doing it. The solution to our problem needs to come from the ground up, Boozman said. Kelvin Parks with the Veterans Affairs says they have always had the senator's support but today was extra-special to all who were involved. It was a really uplifting day for all of our staff. For him to come by and say something encouraging and to motivate and inspire us, made for a very exciting day, Parks said. After the senator individually thanked frontline workers, he took a tour around the hospital to see those efforts first-hand. Some of Fayetteville's frontline fighters get a special visit from Sen. John Boozman. The Senator stopped by the Veterans Healthcare Center of the Ozarks to recognize its healthcare workers for their work during the coronavirus pandemic. He said it's important to thank them and ensure they are getting the assistance they need to take care of Arkansas' Veterans. We can be so very proud of the network that we have in Arkansas. Nobody's working any harder, Boozman said. Boozman has been a constant advocate for Veterans and their health care. Last month, he introduced legislation that would cut down on VA Backlog for those applying for disability. U.S. Senator John Boozman was in Rogers to discuss the upcoming school year. Boozman met with the Superintendent and board members for Rogers Public Schools to see how schools are preparing to safely reopen for teachers and students. He says he was impressed with what he saw today. I'm very much encouraged by the, seeing the various ways that we're going to keep our children safe, keep our teachers safe, and really importantly if it's humanly possible to keep our children in school, he said. Boozman said he thinks lawmakers will send additional funding to schools in the future as needed during the pandemic. U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding $8.2 million in CARES Act Recovery Assistance grants to capitalize and administer Revolving Loan Funds (RLFs) that will provide critical gap financing to small businesses and entrepreneurs that have been adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic across Arkansas... ...Our small businesses have shown remarkable resilience during this challenging time,said Senator John Boozman (R-AR). In navigating this crisis, it's important to ensure they have the ability to revitalize operations, restore or create jobs and continue vital activity that underpins regional economies. I applaud the EDA and the Trump administration for providing Arkansas small businesses and entrepreneurs with needed capital to spur economic recovery and growth. Arkansas Sen. John Boozman, who is in line to become the top Republican on the Senate Agriculture Committee next year, said Perdue needs the flexibility the GOP proposal would provide him because the needs in agriculture could change in coming months. But Boozman said the highest priority is getting the additional $20 billion to USDA. Right now we're working to get everybody on board in the dollars that we've got, he said. Boozman said one issue is how long a benefit increase would last he suggested a year might be long enough. Another issue is whether Democrats would insist on blocking SNAP work requirements from ever being tightened. Still, he said that many Republicans are open to increasing nutrition assistance. We don't want people going hungry, he said. Boozman, in line to be Senate Ag's top Republican in the next Congress, says he will hold USDA accountable for how it spends future COVID-19 payments to producers. Certainly, we're going to hold their feet to the fire and make sure that these dollars are going to be spent in the way that was broadly outlined with the language we finally come up with, Boozman toldAgri-Pulse. Boozman did commend USDA for being able to roll out programs in a matter of weeks compared, noting some farm bill programs can take years to implement. A key senator involved in developing the Republican coronavirus relief package for farmers defended the broad authority it gives to USDA to spend $20 billion in farm aid, but he said the Trump administration likely will need to provide assurances about how the money will be spent. U.S. Senator John Boozman backs a proposal to fund child care centers across the state. Some child care centers, like Kiddie Campus in Fayetteville, never closed when the pandemic hit. So, owner Robin Slaton tells KNWA/Fox 24 any sort of financial help right now would make a huge difference. Slaton said by not closing, the business took huge financial hits that it's still trying to recover from. The Back to Work Child Care Grants Act of 2020would provide nine months of financial assistance to providers like her, and childcare centers that need help reopening. The U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced today the Department's Economic Development Administration is awarding $3.2 million in CARES Act Recovery Assistance grants to eight EDA Economic Development District organizations across Arkansas to update the economic development plans and fortify programs to assist communities in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.... ...The economic harm COVID-19 has brought to communities across Arkansas has been readily apparent,said Senator John Boozman. Investing in development organizations and strategies to help our communities recover and prepare for future growth opportunities makes perfect sense, and I applaud the administration for announcing these grants and prioritizing economic resiliency, Boozman said. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) is continuing his work to support economic recovery by ensuring Arkansas families have access to child care services. Boozman joined U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and other colleagues to introduce theBack to Work Child Care Grants Act of 2020,legislation to assistchild care providers in continuing to offer critical, affordable services for working families during the COVID-19 emergency. We need to take steps to ensure caregivers can continue to provide this vital service Arkansas parents rely on. As parents seek to return to work, they need an available and safe environment to bring their children. This legislation is critical to meeting the needs of hardworking families and helping providers continue operations, Boozman said. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) continued his efforts to make the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) more flexible by joining a bipartisan effort to streamline forgiveness of the program's smaller loans. Boozman cosponsored the Paycheck Protection Small Business Forgiveness Act, introduced by Sens. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Bob Menendez (D-NJ). The bill would make it easier for small businesses to get PPP loans of $150,000 or less forgiven through a simple, one-page form. The PPP has been a critical lifeline for small businesses and has helped millions of Americans continue to receive their paychecks during the COVID-19 crisis. However, the bureaucratic hurdles small business owners need to clear to prove their eligibility for loan forgiveness are overly burdensome for the 85 percent of recipients who received loans of $150,000 or less. Simplifying the loan forgiveness process for the smallest borrowers will minimize the burden of extensive paperwork and allow small businesses to focus on retaining jobs and growing our economy, said Boozman. As super markets around the state emptied duringthe COVID-19 pandemic, farmers continued to provide for the community... ...Although U.S. Senator John Boozman believes this won't be enough. He is in the process ofgetting another aid package to help these farmers. They create the safest, cheapest food supply of any country in the world, we can be really proudof that, Senator Boozman said. But it has been a difficult time for them. As of now it's unclear when more federal money will come and that could hurt the state. It's 25% of Arkansas' economy, and because of that it's really important to our state and it'sreally important to rural Americans which many times gets left out, Senator Boozman said. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottonalong with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westermanapplauded the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for awarding $42.7 million to the Arkansas Department of Transportation in support of the state's public transit systems. The granttotaling $42,742,893comes from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which became law in March with the support of the Arkansas delegation. The funding will be used by ARDOT for state and project administration, including leave for employees due to the reductions in service or the need to quarantine; operating expenses to maintain transit services; and the purchase of personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies. The CARES Act is continuing to deliver help to Arkansas. The transportation industry is facing economic challenges as a result of the coronavirus. These funds will help support the changing needs of transit agencies and ensure Arkansans can continue to use the vital services they provide, members said. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) continues his efforts to strengthen access to telehealth services, which have become even more necessary in light of the coronavirus pandemic. In a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Boozman called on the agencies to provide a plan on permanent changes to Medicare telehealth rules. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided HHS with the authority to waive telehealth requirements for the length of the COVID-19 public health crisis, making it possible for patients to continue receiving medical care without exposing themselves or providers to the coronavirus. Additionally, telehealth has provided a source of financial stability as providers had to delay non-emergency procedures. However, patients have expressed concern that Medicare's temporary changes to telehealth rules will be rolled back without advance notice. We appreciate your recognition that, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more patients and providers see the value of telehealth. We believe telehealth is an important tool that enhances patient care and can provide efficiency in health care delivery, the senators wrote in the letter. While telehealth may not be able to replace all in-person care, we believe it should continue to be an option to meet individual care needs. U.S. Sen. John Boozman of Rogers, on the other hand, wears his mask religiously. ""I try to model that. I'm not perfect, but I do a pretty good job of it,"" he said. ""The science clearly tells us that if we [wear masks], it helps stop the spread. It not only protects us, but it protects those around us, which is so, so very important."" Mask orders, if they come, should be issued by governors, not federal officials, he said. Ideally, people would comply voluntarily, he said. ""Everyone wants to go back to normal, and the fastest path there is for people to cooperate,"" he said. ""I'm really not in favor of mandating things that are difficult to enforce."" Trump has appeared more open to the idea of wearing a mask in recent days, Boozman said, portraying the shift as positive. ""People need to set a good example,"" he said. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined a bipartisan group of senators to introduce the Flexible Financing for Rural America Act, legislation that would allow electric cooperatives and small, rural telecommunications providers to refinance their Rural Utilities Service (RUS) debt at lower interest rates. By taking advantage of current lower interest rates, rural cooperatives and businesses would gain flexibility in managing their cash flow, allowing them to invest in rural communities and pass savings on to customers. At the same time, the bill would enable a stronger recovery from the economic challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Rural cooperatives and businesses have struggled throughout the pandemic as a result of a decline in electricity consumption from industrial sources and an increase in unpaid bills from customers who have faced financial hardship. Connectivity has long been a struggle for Americans who live in rural areas. COVID-19 has only made that challenge even more difficult to overcome. This bill gives rural electricity and broadband providers flexibility to meet customers' needs in these challenging economic times and ensures that rural America will have these vital services to recover and grow when the pandemic is behind us, Boozman said. U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., has signed a letter urging Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to allow additional flexibility for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. The lawmaker from Rogers joined with his colleagues on the Agriculture Committee in sending the request. We appreciate the Department's actions to utilize administrative authorities as well as to implement temporary, emergency authorities provided by Congress in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to waive certain regulations in order to more effectively feed children during school closures and support social distancing, the letter stated. Extending these existing state-based waivers through September 30, 2020, would provide certainty and availability to WIC participants, providers and vendors navigating variable phased re-opening procedures across public, private, and health sectors, the lawmakers wrote. Boozman serves as co-chairman of the Senate Hunger Caucus. With Agriculture Chairman Pat Roberts, R-Kan., preparing to retire, Boozman will be in line to replace him if Republicans retain control. Following the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee's hearing to examine challenges facing the recycling industry, Senate Recycling Caucus Co-chairs John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Carper (D-DE), senior Democrat on the committee, introduced bipartisan legislation that would expand the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to cover waste and recycling collection services. This legislation would designate waste and recycling collection services allowable expenses under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), making them eligible for loan forgiveness under the CARES Act. I appreciate Senator Carper's leadership to ensure waste and recycling collection services are eligible for PPP loans. Their employees have been on the frontlines to help keep our neighborhoods clean and minimize the spread of infectious diseases. These small businesses are vital industries and allowing them to qualify for participation in the PPP is important to maintaining this public service, Boozman said. Senators on Wednesday highlighted holes in recycling infrastructure exposed by the coronavirus pandemic, questioning how Congress can stop a plastic pollution crisis from emerging alongside a public health crisis. Many municipalities paused recycling pickup programs as part of stay-at-home orders during the pandemic, causing recyclables to either end up in landfills or pile up outside... ...After the hearing, Carper and Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.) announced they had introduced legislation that would allow for waste and recycling collection services to be allowable expenses under the Paycheck Protection Program and eligible for loan forgiveness under the CARES Act. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) signed a letter to Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Jovita Carranza urging the administration to ease paperwork requirements for small businesses seeking loan forgiveness under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The letter, signed by 44 senators, specifically requests the loan forgiveness application for loans under $250,000 be no longer than one page in length. While the Small Business Administrator was also given the ability to require additional documentation necessary to verify proper use of PPP funds, we believe it is beyond the program's intent to require the information solicited in the 11-page forgiveness application that the SBA recently released, senators wrote in the letter. The interview program hosted by Timeless 106.1 KFFB's General Manager Bob Connell featured US Senator John Boozman talking aboutCOVID-19 testing, VA's preparedness and more Defunding the Police, Update on the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee hearing to examine the VA's preparedness for the Pandemic, The Great American Outdoors bipartisan bill, legislation to improve mental health services in rural communities, more COVID-19 testing in Arkansas and more. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottonalong with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westermanapplauded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for awarding nearly $170 million to Arkansas Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) providers diagnosing, testing or caring for individuals with possible or confirmed cases of COVID-19. HHS distributed a total of $169,908,060 to eligible Medicaid and CHIP providers on the front lines of Arkansas's coronavirus response. The award was made available through the Provider Relief Fund created by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which Congress passedwith the Arkansas delegation's supportto address the coronavirus crisis. The providers receiving funding through this award treat the most vulnerable in Arkansas. These vital resources will ensure our medical community can continue to provide high-quality treatment and services to every Arkansan as the state enters phase two of reopening, members said. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined a bipartisan group of senators to introduce legislation to expand telemental health services in rural areas. The Home-Based Telemental Health Care Act of 2020 would establish a grant program for health providers to expand telemental health services for those specifically in rural populations working in farming, forestry and fishing industries. Telehealth provides an opportunity for Arkansans to get help while protecting themselves and medical professionals from potential exposure to COVID-19. Providing resources to support the mental health needs of rural populations is necessary as we continue to address the ongoing pandemic and the challenges facing rural America, Boozman said. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, questioned Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) officials on the department's COVID-19 preparedness and urged implementation of measures to enhance efficiency of its supply chain. The demand of supplies continues to be a huge problem, Boozman said of personal protective equipment (PPE). It does make me think of the importance of having a stockpile like we used to have. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined a bipartisan group of senators in requesting the Trump administration act swiftly to distribute emergency funding allocated in federal COVID-19 packages to hospitals that overwhelmingly serve Medicaid and low-income patients. Without adequate federal funding, these hospitals will be unable to effectively treat Arkansas's most vulnerable communities. To date, the distribution methodology used by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has not sufficiently addressed the needs of hospitals and health providers who disproportionately serve Medicaid and low-income patients, the lawmakers wrote in a letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma. U.S. Senator John Boozman joins Bob Connell to discuss the protests, Senate passage of legislation to add flexibility to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and make it more accessible for Arkansas small businesses in need of assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic, the VA's Fiscal Year 2021 budget and the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee infrastructure and its importance in helping economic recovery. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottonalong with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westermanapplauded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for awarding $2.5 million to Arkansas to expand its testing capacity for COVID-19. In this latest round of funding, HHS distributed a total of $2,553,240 to hospitals and other health care entities in the state to train workforces, procure supplies and equipment, and expand telemedicine in response to COVID-19. It comes from legislation Congress passed, with the Arkansas delegation's support, to address the coronavirus crisis. The risk for additional coronavirus outbreaks in Arkansas continues to be a high concern. These funds will help increase provider preparedness, safeguard those on the front line and ensure our medical community can continue to provide high-quality care during this public health emergency, members said. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) supported adding flexibility to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to make it more accessible for Arkansas small businesses in need of assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Senate-passed Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act updates the PPP, a program that provides low-interest loans to small businesses to use for payroll, mortgage interest, rent and utilities, with a portion of the loan eligible for forgiveness. The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers the PPP. According to the SBA, it has approved more 40,591 loans worth more than $3.2 billion to Arkansas small businesses. The Paycheck Protection Program has been critical to helping Arkansas small businesses weather this pandemic. This legislation builds on its success and strengthens the PPP, so we can support the changing needs of small businesses as they continue to face challenges through the phases of reopening. Providing flexibility is a commonsense step to ensuring small businesses can utilize these loans to stay afloat and keep their workers employed, Boozman said. Few events in history have been as challenging as the COVID-19 pandemic. Agriculture makes up one-fourthof Arkansas' GDP and has hit the state's rural economy especially hard.As a member of both the Agriculture and Appropriations Committees in the Senate, Boozman approves of additional funds to support the industry but is keeping an eye on the additional financial burden.He supports the Agriculture Department and Secretary Sonny Perdue's guidelines for dispersing CFAP funds, is in favor of increased annual limits for the Commodity Credit Corporation, and believes the silver lining of the pandemic may be heightened efforts to improve rural broadband service. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined a bipartisan group of colleagues to introduce the Health Care Broadband Expansion During COVID-19 Act that would bolster funding for health care providers in rural areas for the expansion of broadband and telehealth services. Telehealth provides a critical avenue for Arkansans to access medical providers without an unnecessary trip to the doctor's office. The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the need for this connection to health services. This legislation will ensure more health care facilities are equipped with reliable, high-speed internet to better serve their patients, Boozman said. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottonalong with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westermanapplauded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for awarding over $72 million in additional relief funds to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) in Arkansas to help them combat the devastating effects of COVID-19. The investmenttotaling $72,410,000will be distributed directly to SNFs in Arkansas. It is part of the nearly $4.9 billion allocated by HHS to impacted SNFs across the country and may be used to address critical needs such as labor, testing capacity, personal protective equipment and a range of other expenses directly linked to COVID-19. These are particularly trying times for residents in nursing homes, their loved ones and those who work in these facilities. As concerns regarding additional outbreaks remain high, this investment will help protect the most vulnerable among us and help keep those who care for them safe, members said. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottonalong with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westermanapplauded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for awarding Arkansas over $5 million in funding to expand access to COVID-19 testing in rural communities. Rural America must not be left behind as we work to expand coronavirus testing across the nation. These communities are vital to a successful economic restart, especially in a largely rural state such as Arkansas. These funds will help state officials carry out their plan to reopen Arkansas in a safe manner, members said. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced Tuesday the state of Arkansas would receive $78 million to expand its capacity for COVID-19. The funding, according to a news release from U.S. Senator John Boozman's office, is part of $11 billion from HHS to support nationwide testing for COVID-19 and the reopening of America. Expanding our testing capability is necessary to combating the spread of COVID-19 and safely getting Arkansans back to work. These funds will be used to respond to this public health emergency and ensure individuals who have been in contact with infected patients are aware of their risk. The interview program hosted by Timeless 106.1 KFFB's General Manager Bob Connell featured U.S. Senator John Boozman talking aboutNational Police Week, the senator's visit to the White House about flexibility in the use of CARES Act funding designated for states and hisservice on the Congressional Task Force for Reopening America. In this Congressional interview, KASU News Director Johnathan Reaves talks with U.S. Senator John Boozman about the federal disaster delcaration approved after the Jonesboro tornado and the latest with COVID-19 response. U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., is backing legislation that would make more newspapers and broadcasters eligible for covid-19 economic assistance, he said Wednesday.The lawmaker from Rogers signed on as an original co-sponsor of the Local News and Emergency Information Act of 2020, authored by U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash. The goal of the legislation is to save jobs as well as local news outlets, Boozman said. ""This is a program that is not a solution to the problems we're having but it is somewhat of a lifeline to many industries,"" Boozman said of the Paycheck Protection Program. Senators from both parties are backing the bill. ""Hopefully we can get this done,"" Boozman said. ""I think there probably will be another round of help, and so we will be working hard to include this in a bigger bill."" Senators are certain a $3 trillion coronavirus bill poised to pass the House on Friday will die, as Republicans identify poison pills and some Democrats admit it's an opening shot for negotiations. The thing I don't like is the $3 trillion price tag, said Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.).Hopefully there are some things where we can find some common ground. This is a time where Republicans and Democrats need to be working together to solve some very real problems the nation is facing. U.S. Sen. John Boozman (R-AR) is among a group of lawmakers urging Congressional leaders to include $2 billion in the next coronavirus relief package to help health care providers expand telehealth services by improving their access to broadband. Telehealth allows health care providers to treat patients safely without putting themselves or their patients at risk of contracting COVID-19 and has been recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, many providers especially in rural and hard-to-reach communities lack the resources to handle this increase in demand for telehealth services. The Covid-19 Crisis has greatly accelerated the usage and demand for virtual health care visits, Dr. David Hunton, Mercy Fort Smith Clinic president, wrote the Times Record in response to Boozman's announcement. At one point recently, our providers were seeing almost half of their patients virtually. The demand for this type of visit as well as for nontraditional access times and for online scheduling will not dissipate and I believe will continue to increase. The crisis has served as a catalyst for change, and much of this will be to the benefit of patient as well as to our providers. The Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment will receive $8,206,119 from HHS's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton along with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westerman announced in a release. These funds were appropriated by Congress under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which provided $900 million in supplemental LIHEAP funding to help prevent, prepare for, or respond to home energy needs surrounding the national emergency created by the coronavirus, according to the statement. The CARES Act takes a comprehensive approach to help Arkansans struggling from the economic toll of this crisis. This funding willhelp keep families safe and healthy by assisting with energy costs during their time of need, members said. The interview program hosted by Timeless 106.1 KFFB's General Manager Bob Connell featured U.S. Senator John Boozman talking about critical funding for hospitals and colleges in Arkansas, what it's like in D.C. right now and what is on the radar for the Senate. Earlier this week, a national group called the Small Business Majority released criticism on the equity of the Paycheck Protection Program's (PPP) response to the coronavirus economic impact. The Arkansas Delegation offered its response Thursday evening, saying although the PPP had shortcomings it has provided more than 36,000 PPP loans totaling over $3.3 billion. The program is also known as the Payroll Protection Program and now commonly known as PPP. Despite some shortcomings, PPP has helped small businesses in Arkansas more than 36,000 PPP loans totaling over $3.3 billion have been administered, the Arkansas Delegation told the Times Record in a group response. Congress specifically carved out $60 billion for small lenders and that does not preclude them from using the regular pot of funding as well. Small lenders have approved nearly 950,000 loans totaling around $58.2 billion. Congress will conduct aggressive oversight to ensure loans are repaid if criteria aren't met. If small businesses need help with PPP or the other emergency funding programs i.e. EIDL, small business debt relief, they should contact our offices. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottonalong with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westermanapplauded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for awarding federal funds to Arkansas health centers for expanded coronavirus testing. These health centers play a critical role in keeping Arkansans healthy. Providing additional resources to expand testing is key to identifying patients infected with this disease and preventing its spread in the community. These funds will help achieve the governor's goal of conducting 60,000 coronavirus tests in the state during May, members said. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton, along with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack, and Bruce Westerman made the announcement on May 7. Providing resources to safeguard law enforcement and public safety officers is critical to the health and the wellbeing of Arkansas. This funding will allow law enforcement agencies across the state to better protect frontline workers while continuing to provide valuable services to families in our communities, members said. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton along with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westerman applauded the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for awarding $8,190,367 in Community Development Block Grant funding to Arkansas to support the prevention, preparation and response to the coronavirus pandemic. This funding provides additional relief to the state and local governments as they respond to the increasing needs of communities during this pandemic. These resources will help better serve Arkansans in need, members said. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues calling on the administration to raise the Paycheck Protection Program's (PPP) non-payroll forgiveness cap from 25 percent to 50 percent. PPP loans can be used toward payroll, utilities, mortgage interest and rent payments, and can be forgiven when at least 75 percent of the loan is spent on payroll. In a letter to U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Small Business Administrator Jovita Carranza, the senators request that threshold be reduced to 50 percent. The 25 percent threshold is problematic for several business sectors, especially those whose mortgage, rent, or utility payments constitute a large portion of fixed monthly expenses. If they are unable to cover these expenses, they will have to decide between keeping their doors open, at personal financial risk, or closing shop and laying off employees,the senators wrote.These are businesses that will not recover. Such an outcome would result in mass layoffs that would shift more Americans onto unemployment, presenting significant long-term costs to families, businesses, and states. Arkansas' Congressional Delegation announced that $14.573 million in an additional round of coronavirus relief funding for Arkansas's Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and institutions serving low-income students to help ensure learning continues during the coronavirus crisis. The Department of Education quickly awarded CARES Act funding to higher education institutions across the state to aid students impacted during this crisis. This additional funding recognizes the unique challenges facing HBCUs and institutions serving low-income students. These institutions play a vital role in transforming lives and make Arkansas's communities stronger, the delegation said. The interview program hosted by Timeless 106.1 KFFB's General Manager Bob Connell featured US Senator John Boozman talking about how the CARES Act is delivering critical funding to Arkansas, serving on the President's congressional task force for the reopening of America in the wake of COVID-19, the food supply chain and the Senate's expected return to session. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottonalong with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westermanapplauded the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for awarding Arkansas Public Housing Agencies $4.7 million in funding to support the prevention, preparation and response to the coronavirus pandemic in public housing. Providing these resources is necessary to supporting ongoing efforts to combat the coronavirus in Arkansas. These investments will protect the lives of vulnerable individuals in our state, members said. U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottonalong with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westermanapplauded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for awarding additional federal funds to hospitals and health care providers across Arkansas to help facilitate the coronavirus response in our communities. We are pleased that HHS has continued to quickly provide much-needed aid to medical providers in Arkansas. Every provider has been impacted by this crisis and the effort to ensure that no one misses out on relief is greatly appreciated, the delegation said. Arkansas U.S. Sens. John Boozman and Tom Cotton -- along with U.S. Reps. Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westerman -- applauded the U.S. Department of Education for awarding emergency relief funds to support continued learning for Arkansas students. ""The closure of all public schools in Arkansas for the remainder of the school year is one of the biggest disruptions to everyday life the coronavirus crisis has brought upon families in our state,"" the Arkansas lawmakers said in a joint news release. ""This funding ... will help the state overcome some of the challenges our educators, students and parents are facing as a result."" U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton along with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westerman praise the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for awarding $10.6 million in federal funds to support rural communities and further develop testing and prevention capabilities against the coronavirus crisis in Arkansas, said a press release from the delegates. Communities and medical providers across the state will benefit from these resources as we continue to fight the coronavirus and look toward a future of resuming daily activities, members said. The Paycheck Protection Program is an important tool to help Arkansas small businesses remain operational during the coronavirus pandemic and viable in the future. The restoration of funding to this program will support workers and small businesses in the Natural State and all across America. I urge the House of Representatives to quickly approve this funding so we can provide immediate relief to small businesses facing financial hardships, Boozman said in a news release. U.S. Senator John Boozman is among a bipartisan group that on Sunday urged Senate leadership to include local news media outlets in future coronavirus relief legislation. Boozman, R-Arkansas, along with senators Maria Cantwell, D-Washington, John Kennedy, R-Louisiana, and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota, signed a letter asking for local newspapers and television and radio stations to be eligible for small business assistance under the Paycheck Protection Program. ""Local news is essential to keeping us informed during this crisis. Reporters are on the frontlines delivering details the public needs and deserves. At a time when we need this communication more than ever, media outlets are struggling with financial losses as a result of decreased advertising leading to decisions to downsize, furlough workers or close. Ensuring the viability of local news outlets is critical to maintaining access to information,"" Boozman said via a spokesperson Tuesday. The interview program hosted by Timeless 106.1 KFFB's General Manager Bob Connell featured US Senator John Boozman talking about Economic Impact Payments, relief to agriculture, The CALL, broadband, distribution of funds for businesses, workers and families, child care support to health care workers industry, and heroes. ""Those members of Congress are definitely hearing from their constituents that they need to pass this,"" he said. Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation have also been diligent in staying in touch throughout the emergency. ""There is an immediate need to increase funding to the program because the money has run out, but there are still many small businesses in need of assistance,"" [Senator John Boozman, R-Rogers] said in a statement. ""I am confident Congress will approve additional resources to support its continuation."" U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton along with Con",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-secures-funding-for-arkansas-priorities,Boozman Secures Funding for Arkansas Priorities,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON-U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), chairman of theSenate Appropriations Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) subcommittee, secured provisions in the omnibus that stand to deliver benefits to the Natural State. Congress has an obligation to fund the government.Passing the appropriations bills ensures we are investing in programs that support the needs of Americans. I'm proud to craft legislation that fullyfunds theVA MISSION Act and electronic health record modernization programs while supporting new initiatives to reduce and prevent veteran suicide,Boozman said.I'm pleased Congress approved resources for programs important to Arkansas. Boozman authored the section of the bill that fundsmilitary construction and veterans affairs. Healso secured resources for several Arkansas-related priorities: Air Force Training:$8 million to support training at Razorback Range. Pine Bluff Arsenal:Over $30 million for munitions manufacturing. Fort Chaffee:$15 million for the construction of the Arkansas National Guard Readiness Training Center which will provide greater support for training exercises and help ensure Arkansas guardsmen continue to be some of the best. 188thWing:$2.6 million for the Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Programrenewable energy project. National Center for Toxicological Research:$66.7 million to support the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) research to promote and protect public health conducted at the National Center for Toxicological Research. This facility is located in Jefferson County. Rural Broadband:$635 million to help close the digital divide and invest in rural broadband through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's ReConnect Program. Rural Development:Expanding business development and job training opportunities in rural areas, including $2.8 million for the Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Access (ATTRA) program which connects Arkansas agricultural producers to information that helps them improve their operations. ATTRA administers the Armed to Farm program that assists veterans in transition to civilian life by training them for a career in farming. ATTRA has a regional headquarters located in Fayetteville. High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program (HIDTA):$290 million to support effective and innovative drug control efforts by federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies operating in HIDTA areas. In Arkansas this includes Benton, Jefferson, Pulaski and Washington counties. Veterans Treatment Courts:Support for critical components of our judicial system that offer an alternative treatment to jail for individuals suffering from drug and alcohol addiction. Veterans treatment courts received $25 million to help break the cycle of addiction. Law Enforcement Grants:$484 million for the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) program which provides federal, state and local governments the tools to prevent and combat crime and keep their communities safe. In Arkansas, Byrne JAG helps fund multi-jurisdictional programs like Drug Task Forces. SRF WIN Funding:$5 million is included to help meet underserved or unmet water infrastructure needs, a program Boozman-authored last Congress to create an innovative approach to modernizing critical water infrastructure. Community Health Centers (CHC):In Arkansas, there are more than 130 CHC facilities that help nearly 200,000 people get the medical, dental, vision and behavioral health care services they need. The Senate allocates $1.68 billion for these health facilities. Delta Regional Authority (DRA):The DRA works to improve economic opportunity for residents of the Delta region through targeted investments. The bill includes more than $30 millionfor the DRA whichsupportsgrants to the region and funding for basic public infrastructure development and transportation improvements. Small Business Development:More than $30 million is included for programs that support small business development such as the Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program, Women's Business Centers and Regional Innovation Clusters program. McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System (MKARNS):The bill includes report language discussing the importance of the MKARNS inland waterway deepening and encourages the Army Corps of Engineers to provide funds for non-structural activities, such as channel deepening, when funding is sufficient to accommodate such projects. National Feral Swine Damage Management Program:Increases funding to the National Feral Swine Damage Management Program under the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to reduce adverse ecological and economic impacts caused by feral swine across Arkansas and the nation. Community Development Block Grant:The bill provides $3.5 billion for the Community Development Block Grant program, the federal government's largest and most widely available source of financial assistance supporting state and local government-directed neighborhood revitalization, housing rehabilitation and economic development activities. Grants are used to implement plans intended to address housing, community development and economic development needs, as determined by local officials. Contract Tower Program:The bill funds this programwhich provides enhanced safety, improved air traffic control services and significant Federal Aviation Administration cost savingsat $173 million. This program benefits aviation safety by allowing small commercial service and general aviation airports to receive air traffic control services. There are five contract towers in Arkansas: Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville and Texarkana. University Transportation Centers:$78 million for researching and developing improved transportation methods. The Mack-Blackwell Transportation Center at the University of Arkansas has been a U.S. Department of Transportation University Transportation Center since 1992. Workforce Training:$35 million for the Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities initiative to support workforce training and education in rural communities across the Delta and Appalachian regions. Head Start and Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Program:$135 million increase for Head Start and $85 million increase to provide child care assistance for families in need. CCDBG funds are critical to supporting the needs of working parents and enabling child care to continue to operate, a key to economic recovery. Department of Defense Research:Funding forcollaborativeresearch in which Arkansas companies are engaged, including more than $34 million forsilicon carbide research to make smaller components for more sophisticated modern weapons. Water Infrastructure:$1.1 billion for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund which helps public water systems finance the costs of infrastructure improvements needed to achieve or maintain compliance with Safe Drinking Water Act requirements and to protect public health. $1.6 billion for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund to provide communities low-cost financing for water quality improvement projects.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-votes-to-support-additional-covid-19-relief,Boozman Votes to Support Additional COVID-19 Relief,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) voted for nearly $900 billion in additional COVID-19 relief for struggling Americans and hard-hit small businesses, along with additional funding to safely open schools and strengthen efforts to defeat the virus so we can reopen America. The legislation passed the Senate by a vote of 92-6. It had already been approved by the House of Representatives and has been sent to President Trump to be signed into law. This overdue lifeline will help struggling Americans, keep small businesses from shuttering and help to get our kids safely back in school. It will strengthen our efforts to defeat the virus by dramatically increasing efforts to purchase and distribute lifesaving vaccines, Boozman said. The coronavirus doesn't care if you are a Republican or a Democrat, so relief for Americans impacted by the COVID-19 public health and economic crisis should not have been subjected to political posturing that delayed crucial assistance until the eleventh hour. It is necessary that we are unified in order to deliver relief in a more timely manner. Boozmanwho is slated to serve as the top-ranking Republican on the Senate Agriculture Committee during the 117thCongressworked to ensure that programs helping America's agriculture producers received $13 billion in funding. Things are certainly tough in farm country right now. Commodity prices have been down, input costs up. Farmers have weathered trade wars and inclement weather. COVID-19 was one more huge complication for our agricultural producers. I am pleased that we were able to direct ample funding to programs that specifically help our farmers and ranchers navigate these challenging times, Boozman said. Additionally, Boozman successfully led efforts to include language preventing Medicare payment cuts to physicians. The provision is based on legislation he recently introduced, theHolding Providers Harmless from Medicare Cuts During COVID-19 Act of 2020, that ensures payments to physicians are maintained at current levels. Cutting physician payments is the last thing that should happen doing when we're in the middle of a pandemic. Patients deserve access to quality and affordable health care. This legislation is necessary to achieve this,Boozman said. Highlights of the latest round of COVID-19 relief Support for medical efforts to identify, treat and combat COVID-19: Vaccines:$20 billion for purchase of vaccines and another $8B for distribution; Testing:$20 billion to assist states with testing; Provider Relief Fund:$20 billion for the Provider Relief Fund, including the use of unobligated funds, which helps make up for health care-related expenses or lost revenue attributable to COVID-19; Telehealth:$250 million dedicated to telehealth, with an additional $300 million specifically for rural broadband buildout. Relief for struggling Americans includes: Direct Checks:A second round of direct checks of $600 for individuals and qualifying dependents; Unemployment Assistance:Temporary extension of all unemployment assistance created by the CARES Act and allows a supplemental $300 per week for unemployed Americans through March 14, 2021; Rental Assistance:$25 billion for emergency rental assistance, targeted for individuals who lost their source of income, and an extension of the eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021; Child Care Assistance:$10 billion for child care programs that allow parents to return to work; Hunger Relief:$13 billion for emergency food assistance, including increased SNAP assistance, as well as funding for food banks and food pantries. Help for small businesses: Extends and Enhances the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP):Extends the PPP and adds deductibility for PPP expenses; Expands Eligibility for PPP:Gives businesses experiencing severe revenue reductions an opportunity to apply for additional loans. Nonprofits, local newspapers and small broadcasters are now eligible for the program. Ensures that churches and faith-based organizations are eligible for the program; Funding for Entertainment Venues:Dedicates $15 billion for live entertainment venues, independent movie theaters and museums; Replenishes Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) Program:$20 billion to assist businesses that were hardest hit by the economic impacts of the coronavirus. Funding to safely reopen schools: K-12 and Higher Education Institutions:Includes $82 billion in funding for schools and universities to assist with reopening for in-person learning.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-secures-key-priorities-in-pandemic-relief-package,Cotton Secures Key Priorities in Pandemic Relief Package,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 22, 2020 Cotton Secures Key Priorities in Pandemic Relief Package Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) announced that the following provisions were included in the latest Covid-19 relief package. “After months of Democratic stalling, Congress finally passed updated relief for Arkansans and Americans around the country. I’m pleased that many provisions helping Arkansans recover and get back to work were included in the final bill,” said Cotton. Vaccine Support: $20 billion to purchase vaccines that will be available at no charge to anyone who needs it. $8 billion for vaccine distribution. $20 billion to assist states with testing. Paycheck Protection Program (PPP): 2nd round of PPP loans for small businesses that have suffered losses caused by the pandemic. Simplifies loan forgiveness applications for PPP loans of $150,000 or less. Expenses paid with PPP loans are tax deductible. Mandates the eligibility of religious institutions and includes small broadcasters as eligible businesses. Planned Parenthood is barred from receiving PPP second-draw loans. Senator Cotton led 27 other senators in urging the Department of Justice to investigate Planned Parenthood after it improperly received PPP loans through the CARES Act earlier this year. Poultry and Timber Payments: Poultry growers under contract will be eligible for payments. Provides $200 million in assistance to timber harvesting and hauling businesses that suffered losses greater than 10 percent as a result of the pandemic. Livestock Dealer Trust: Ensures that cattle sellers receive payment if a livestock dealer becomes insolvent. Comprehensive Immunosuppressive Drug Coverage for Kidney Transplant Patients Act: Extends Medicare coverage of immunosuppressive drugs for kidney transplant recipients who do not have other coverage. Medicaid Access for Marshallese Arkansans: Extends Medicaid eligibility to citizens of Freely Associated States living in the United States, including many Marshallese residents of Northwest Arkansas. Water Resources Development Act: Authorizes the McClellan Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System (MKARNS) channel deepening project. Authorizes the Ouachita and Black Rivers water supply project. Rural Access to Hospice Act: Allows beneficiaries to keep their known Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) and RHC physician when they choose to enter hospice. Federal Reserve: Ensures that Federal Reserve emergency lending powers cannot be repurposed beyond their goal of restoring functioning credit markets. The legislative package also included several national security priorities for Senator Cotton, including: Taiwan Assurance Act: Senator Cotton introduced the Taiwan Assurance Act in 2019 to enhance the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and bolster Taiwan's participation in the international community. Huawei Replacement Funding: Provides funding for rural carriers to remove Huawei gear from their networks. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-whitehouse-applaud-signing-of-als-disability-insurance-access-act,"Cotton, Whitehouse Applaud Signing of ALS Disability Insurance Access Act",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) tonight applauded the signing into law of the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act, bipartisan legislation that eliminates the five-month waiting period before ALS patients can receive the Social Security Disability Insurance benefits they earned by contributing to Social Security. The legislation builds on previous steps by Congress and the Social Security Administration to accommodate the difficult prognosis for those diagnosed with ALS. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 96-1 and cleared the House unanimously. “Americans suffering from ALS shouldn’t have to wait for assistance, especially given their tragically short life expectancy—and now they won’t have to,” said Cotton. “By waiving the statutory disability benefits waiting period, our bill makes support available to those suffering from this terrible disease much faster. I’m grateful to my colleagues in Congress and the president for helping bring relief to Americans living with ALS.” “This represents a simple act of humanity for Americans battling a disease that often moves too quickly for the current system,” said Whitehouse. “Allowing patients and their families to immediately access the benefits they’ve earned will offer comfort as they confront a difficult diagnosis. Thank you to the tireless advocates and allies all over the country who joined our fight to get this done.” Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a neurodegenerative disease affecting the ability of the brain to control muscle movements. Individuals with ALS progressively lose the ability to speak, walk, and breathe. The intended purpose of a five-month waiting period is to allow temporary conditions to reverse. However, there is currently no cure or treatment to halt or undo the effects of ALS, and some ALS patients lose their fight with the disease before ever receiving benefits. The ALS Disability Insurance Access Act would help alleviate some of the financial hardship that accompanies an ALS diagnosis, and support those living with ALS and their families. “This legislation eliminates an unnecessary burden placed on the shoulders of people confronting a cruel, expensive and burdensome disease. It is a testament to the tenacity and perseverance of ALS advocates who laid the groundwork for victory through the hard work of building a coalition of legislative champions across partisan lines,” said Calaneet Balas,President and CEO of the ALS Association. “We are grateful to Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse and Tom Cotton and Reps. Seth Moulton and Peter King, along with all congressional champions who have worked alongside the ALS community for years to achieve this victory.” “From this day forward, the ALS community has left its mark on changing policy for the betterment of thousands,” said I AM ALS CEO Danielle Carnival, Ph.D. “To the advocates who drove this change, to the Congressional officials who championed this forward, to the entire ALS community: today brings renewed hope and dignity.” Cotton and Whitehouse first introduced the ALS Disability Insurance Act in 2016. The legislation was sponsored in the House by Congressmen Seth Moulton (D-MA) and Peter King (R-NY).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8174,Hill Votes to Pass Bipartisan COVID-19 Relief and Fund the Government,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON D.C. Today, the House of Representatives passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, which provides targeted COVID-19 relief of approximately $900 billion, which is composed of new appropriated funds of approximately $325 billion after rescinding $429 billion in Federal Reserve 13(3) authority and repurposing unused PPP funds. Further, the Consolidated Appropriations Act provides $1.4 trillion to fully fund the government through the next fiscal year. After the vote, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) issued the following statement: This long-awaited package is the result of a substantial bipartisan effort by my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to provide the people of Arkansas with much-needed relief. While Speaker Pelosi could have accepted a very similar bill from House and Senate Republicans in July, passing this relief package shows a bipartisan desire to support American families and small businesses and give them assurances and confidence before the end of the year. Together, we face an unprecedented and invisible enemy. Every steppingstone to defeat this virus is crucial, and this bill is a key component of our victory. I thank my colleagues for coming together to prevent a government shutdown and for finally producing relief to help carry Arkansas families, workers, small businesses, and educational institutions through this pandemic. In response to the challenges created by COVID-19, this legislation will: Bolster the Economy: $325 billion for small businesses, including $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, dedicated set-asides for very small businesses and lending through community-based lenders like Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), and expanded PPP eligibility for 501(c)(6) nonprofits, including destination marketing organizations, and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters. $20 billion for new EIDL Grants for businesses in low-income communities. $15 billion in funding for entertainment venues, movie theaters, and museums that are experiencing significant revenue loss. Expands list of eligible expenses to include covered operations; property damage costs that are not covered by insurance; covered supplier costs; and covered worker protection expenditures (PPE). PPP borrowers will be allowed to take tax deductions for covered business expenses. $13 billion to support farmers and the agriculture sector, including assistance under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) and funding directed to programs that support local producers and new and beginning farmers. Support Working Families: Economic Impact Payments of $600 for individuals making up to $75,000 per year and $1,200 for couples making up to $150,000 per year, as well as a $600 payment for each child dependent. $286 billion for an additional $300 per week in unemployment insurance, through March 14. $25 billion for a rental assistance (to be distributed through state and local agencies) and an extension of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention eviction moratorium through January 31. $69 billion for vaccine procurement and distribution and monies sent to states for testing, tracing, and COVID mitigation programs. Incentivizes employers to give employees $5,250 per year toward their student loans. Employees will no longer have to pay a tax on the amount given towards their student loans for the next five years. Provide Flexibility for our Governors: State and local governments will now have until December 31, 2021 to spend aid provided by the CARES Act. $7 billion total in broadband funding $2 billion to replace foreign manufactured equipment $300 million for rural $250 million for telehealth $82 billion for aid to schools and universities, including K-12 and higher education. $20 billion for purchase of vaccines that will make the vaccine available at no charge for anyone who needs it, $8 billion for vaccine distribution, and $20 billion to assist states with testing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-covid-19-relief-federal-funding,"House Passes COVID-19 Relief, Federal Funding",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,westerman,https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, year-end legislation that funds annual federal government operations and allocates COVID-19 relief. U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) released the following statement: ""It's been a long negotiating process, but I believe we've got a winning end product. In addition to the overdue and much-needed COVID-19 relief, the appropriations bills fund our military and the border wall, reinstate the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), don't remove any pro-life protections, and much more while still coming in under the budget caps we'd set, something that hasn't happened in several years. It's an imperfect process – these bills should've been passed months ago – but it's the best we've got under the current situation. I voted for them and hope to see them signed into law soon."" Background The funding breakdown for COVID-19 relief includes: $600 stimulus checks per individual/child, capped at $75,000 gross adjusted income per individual ($150,000 for married couples). These payments will be based on 2019 tax returns. $280 billion to reopen and strengthen the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Businesses with fewer than 300 employees and that have had a 25 percent reduction in revenue are eligible for a second round of payments. $20 billion for the production of vaccines and therapeutics, covering the cost for everyone who needs it. $45 billion in transportation assistance, including $15 billion for passenger air carriers to retain employees. $300 million for the broadband deployment program to support rural broadband infrastructure, and $250 million to the FCC to carry out the temporary telehealth pilot program authorized under the CARES Act. $13 billion in support to farmers, ranchers and the agriculture sector. The funding breakdown for the annual appropriations bills includes:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404284,Womack Statement on Appropriations and Coronavirus Relief Package,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Steve Womack,W000809,womack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCDecember 21, 2020....Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the below statement following the passage of Fiscal Year 2021 appropriations and coronavirus relief legislation that keeps the government open, fully funds critical priorities, and provides further resources to defeat the coronavirus and support the American people: Congressman Womacksaid, Tonight, the House finally completed its appropriations duty and delivered enhanced resources to combat the coronavirus. This package secures wins for Arkansas and the nation by investing in vaccine distribution, assisting families and small businesses, supporting rural hospitals, and boosting our military readiness. However, Congress deserves no praise. The bill before us should have been voted on months ago. I realize - as do the American people - that this is not the ideal way to go about funding the government and providing pandemic relief. No one in this chamber disputes that fact. I've called for changes to our budget and appropriations process that could very well add efficiency and dignity to Congress. Our constituents deserve better than the constant cycle of political games, partisan obstruction, and missed deadlines. Package highlights that support Arkansas and the nation include provisions that: Provide nearly $20 billion for the production of COVID-19 vaccines, covering the cost for everyone who needs it; Help small businesses by providing an additional $284 billion in Paycheck Protection Program funds and simplifying the loan forgiveness process; Increase resources for further coronavirus testing capabilities; Deploy funding for schools and childcare providers to assist with safe operations; Ban surprise medical billing to increase pricing transparency and protections for patients; Give additional financial support to families, as well as farmers, ranchers, and producers impacted by the pandemic; Improve healthcare for rural communities by supporting hospitals and providers; Bolster telehealth programs and services; Restore health coverage to Marshallese families in Northwest Arkansas by instituting Medicaid technical fix; Provide resources to improve Ft. Chaffee infrastructure and allow for an energy project at Ebbing Air National Guard Base; Continue University of Arkansas research projects on defense and energy initiatives; Aid Arkansas's manufacturing of defense supplies; Institute a 3% pay raise for our hardworking military members; Support Arkansas's National Guard missions and boost troop levels; Fund SBA Regional Innovation Clusters, which have supported Third District organizations like Startup Junkie; Stand with Arkansas's hardworking truckers by excluding them from burdensome regulations; Make the highest level of rural broadband investment in history to better connect underserved areas; Advance the MKARNS 12-foot channel deepening project; Adjust the cost share for Inland Waterways System projects to help expedite the completion of ongoing and future projects; Increase flood resiliency by streamlining U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construction authority for communities that experience continual flood loss; Protect the sanctity of life by maintaining pro-life funding restrictions; Strengthen national security and continue to rebuild our military; Secure our border by providing resources for new border wall segments; Provide our veterans with greater healthcare access and services; and Enhance resources for medical research through the National Institutes of Health for diseases like Alzheimer's, diabetes, and cancer. Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas's Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. womack.house.gov ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/victory-for-women-veterans,Victory for Women Veterans,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Women have served in our nation's uniform since the Revolutionary War. Today, this population is the fastest growing in the veteran community. We have a responsibility to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is meeting their needs. With the historic passage of theDeborah Sampson Actwe are one step closer to fulfilling our promise to women veterans. The landmark legislation, headed to the President's desk to be signed into law, will eliminate barriers to care and services that many women face when accessingVA benefits. Named after aRevolutionary War veteran who disguised herself as a man to help fight for her country, we are honoring her legacy in the legislation that addressesthe gender disparities at the VA. A majority of women veterans are hesitant to turn to the VA for help. More than 50 percent of women veterans believe they are not entitled to or eligible for VA care. We need to create a culture at the VA that welcomes women veterans and makes them feel like they belong. It's long overdue that we update the belief that when a woman seeks care at the VA it's not because her husband is the veteran. Arkansas women shared with me some of their experiences at the VA. Some required referrals to community care because the services provided at the VA didn't accommodate all their medical needs. Others were about the lack of privacy in exam rooms and the length of time to schedule appointments with medical professionals who specialize in women's health. Senate VA Committee Ranking Member Jon Tester (D-MT) and I first introduced theDeborah Sampson Actnearly four years ago to correct these inequities. We crafted the legislation based on the recommendations we heard from veterans. We knew our colleagues understood the necessity of updating the VA's approach to serving women and we worked with them, the VA and Veteran Service Organizations to make our bill better. That's one reason it received unanimous support in the Senate and the House of Representatives. We were helped along the way by Arkansas members of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) who made theDeborah Sampson Acta cornerstone of their legislative priorities. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) was an early supporter of the bill. In celebrating its passage, an IAVA member said we have won a great victory for women veterans. Among improvements theDeborah Sampson Actdelivers is requiring the VA to address privacy concerns and enhance access to medical professionals who specialize in women's care. Additionally, it creates a dedicated Office of Women's Health that will ensure standards of care are being meet by all VA medical centers. I'm proud of the work we've accomplished to break down the barriers to care and services that prevent many women from accessing the VA benefits they earned. This is a milestone for 19,000 Arkansas women veterans and the millions of others around the country. I remain committed to ensuring improvements we approved in theDeborah Sampson Actare successfully implemented.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-cardin-call-for-identifying-global-crisis-in-education-due-to-covid-19,KFSM: The Deborah Sampson Act sponsored by Senator Boozman passes through congress,2020-12-20,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"This week a bill sponsored by Senator Boozman was passed by Congress and is now being sent to President Trump to sign into law. The Deborah Sampson Act is aimed to improve medical services for women veterans. All of this really came from the ground up, talking to our women veterans...They said there was a discrepancy here, they didn't feel welcome, that they needed additional funding and resources, says Boozman. Barbara Aguirre, an Air Force Veteran, says many women are uncomfortable walking into the VA Clinic and says women are not treated the same as men. She says many services are geared towards men, and there is a need for more female doctors. ""I might not have done anything special during my service, but I served, just like millions of other women did. I check with other women veterans, and some won't even go into the VA. It's really hard to talk to someone when they are patting you on the head instead of trying to help you with your problem, says Aguirre. These concerns were brought to Boozman, and after three years in the works, the act will become law before the end of the 116th Congress. Full story (w/video)https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/this-week-a-bill-sponsored-by-senator-boozman-was-passed-by-congress-and-is-now-being-sent-to-president-trump-to-sign-into-law/527-cf832b88-9114-461b-b0a0-b7280b1619d2",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8158,Hill Votes to Fund Government to Pass COVID-19 Relief,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill Votes to Fund Government to Pass COVID-19 Relief f t # e Washington, December 18, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C. Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) voted to extend the federal government through December 20th in order to finalize a COVID-19 relief bill. Rep. Hill issued the following statement after the passage of the continuing resolution:I am encouraged by the significant bipartisan effort, from both Congress and the Trump Administration, to sit down and come to a thorough agreement on COVID-19 relief. As we continue to deliberate on the most supportive and effective bill for American families, small businesses, and workers, I am pleased that both parties have agreed to extend the federal government as we head towards a deal."" f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/covid-19-vaccine-here-what-does-mean,A COVID-19 Vaccine Is Here. What Does That Mean?,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,,,legacy,"In an incredible testament to American innovation and ingenuity, we now have a vaccine for COVID-19 that is headed to every state. President Trump and the administration's Operation Warp Speed backed our brightest scientists, and they developed, tested and produced a safe and effective vaccine in record time. It's encouraging to see some light at the end of a very long year. Of course, there's a lot that needs to happen before the vaccine is widely accessible to every American. I know a lot of you have questions about what the process entails, the vaccine's safety and when it will be available for everyone. The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has already proposed a phased approach to vaccine distribution, although it's important to note that this is always subject to change based on vaccine supply. The current plan is broken down into three phases. Phase 1 (limited vaccine availability) will target high-priority groups. Phase 1-A (December 2020) will focus on health care workers in high-exposure settings and long-term care residents, Phase 1-B (January-February 2021) will focus on essential workers, and Phase 1-C (February-March 2021) will focus on folks with increased risk of severe disease and those who reside in congregate settings. Phase 2 (increased vaccine availability) will begin distributing the vaccine to the general population. Phase 3 (widespread vaccine availability) will complete the distribution to all persons needing vaccination. The vaccine will be free and available to everyone, whether or not you are insured. Hospitals and local pharmacies will be administering the vaccine during the initial distribution phases. Other pharmacies such as CVS, Walgreens and Walmart will assist in later phases. As a reminder, these first-available vaccines will require two doses, three to four weeks apart. It's been a difficult few months for many Americans, but the vaccine is remarkable progress. I encourage you to continue learning more about it through ADH's website or by calling my office at (501) 609-9796. We are all in this together, and I'll continue updating you as we learn more information.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404282,Womack Statement on Confirmation of Gregory Tabor as U.S. Marshal,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Steve Womack,W000809,womack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Womack Statement on Confirmation of Gregory Tabor as U.S. Marshal f t # e Washington, December 17, 2020 Washington, DCDecember 17, 2020....Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the following statement on the Senate confirmation of Gregory Tabor to serve as U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Arkansas: Greg Tabor has committed his life and career to the safety and security of our communities. With more than three decades of experience in law enforcement and exceptional leadership skills, he is prepared to lead the U.S. Marshals Service for the Western District of Arkansas with honor and integrity. I'm grateful for his continued service to the Natural State and commend my colleagues in the Senate for confirming this dedicated public servant. Greg Tabor has a long and distinguished law enforcement career in the Natural State. He previously was the Chief of Police at the Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA), served the Fayetteville Police Department for 34 years where he retired as Chief of Police in 2019, and was Chairman of the Board for the Fourth Judicial District Drug Task Force. He earned his Police Officer Certificate from the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy. Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas's Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. womack.house.gov ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/bill-designating-national-cold-war-center-in-blytheville-introduced-in-senate,Bill Designating National Cold War Center in Blytheville Introduced in Senate,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONArkansas Senators John Boozman and Tom Cottonintroduced a bill that would designate themuseumat Eaker Air Force Base in Blytheville, AR as the National Cold War Center. The Blytheville Air Force Base exhibition is dedicated to sharing the stories and educating the public about the community's role in our national security. I'm proud to honor the accomplishments of the men and women who served at Eaker Air Force Baseby recognizing the museum as the National Cold War Center so we can pay tribute to their contributions to our defense,Boozmansaid. Eaker Air Force Base played a key role in the defense of our nation during the Cold Warwe ought to preserve its legacy and encourage the continued education of future generations. Our bill will officially recognize the museum in Blytheville as the nation's National Cold War Center, which will help preserve this important history and be a boon to local tourism, saidCotton. Background: The world's largest and most comprehensive museum about the Cold War is in production in Blytheville, Arkansas. Eaker Air Force Base, the site of the museum, was home to approximately 300,000 men and women from 1942-1992 and is America's best-preserved Strategic Air Command Alert Aircrew Facility and Nuclear Weapons Storage Area. The bill text can be foundhere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-cotton-applaud-confirmation-of-gregory-tabor-to-serve-as-u-s-marshal,"Boozman, Cotton Applaud Confirmation of Gregory Tabor to Serve as U.S. Marshal",2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) applauded Senate confirmation of Gregory Tabor to serve as U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Arkansas. Greg Tabor will serve the people of Arkansas the same way that he served the citizens of Fayettevillewith honor and distinction. Greg has developed a wealth of experience through decades of law enforcement service that will enable him to excel in this new role. His leadership skills and expertise will make him an asset to the U.S. Marshal Service. We congratulate Greg and look forward to working with him, the senators said. Tabor previously served as the Chief of Police at the Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA). Prior to taking the job at XNA, he served for 34 years with the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas Police Department, beginning in 1985 until he retired as the Chief of Police in 2019. In addition to serving in the police department, Tabor was the Chairman of the Board for the Fourth Judicial District Drug Task Force. He earned his Police Officer Certificate from the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-boozman-bill-to-designate-national-cold-war-center-in-blytheville,"Cotton, Boozman Bill to Designate National Cold War Center in Blytheville",2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 17, 2020 Cotton, Boozman Bill to Designate National Cold War Center in Blytheville Washington, D.C. — Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and John Boozman (R-Arkansas) introduced a bill that would designate the museum at Eaker Air Force Base in Blytheville, AR as the National Cold War Center. Bill text may be found here. “Eaker Air Force Base played a key role in the defense of our nation during the Cold War—we ought to preserve its legacy and encourage the continued education of future generations. Our bill will officially recognize the museum in Blytheville as the nation’s National Cold War Center, which will help preserve this important history and be a boon to local tourism,” said Cotton. “The Blytheville Air Force Base exhibition is dedicated to sharing the stories and educating the public about the community’s role in our national security. I’m proud to honor the accomplishments of the men and women who served at Eaker Air Force Base by recognizing the museum as the National Cold War Center so we can pay tribute to their contributions to our defense,” Boozman said. Background: The world’s largest and most comprehensive museum about the Cold War is in production in Blytheville, Arkansas. Eaker Air Force Base, the site of the museum, was home to approximately 300,000 men and women from 1942-1992 and is America’s best preserved Strategic Air Command Alert Aircrew Facility and Nuclear Weapons Storage Area.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://bit.ly/38br0Wr,Congress Sends Boozman Initiative Enhancing Benefits for Women Veterans to President,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,bit.ly,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON— Congress is sending President Donald Trump legislation to sign into law championed by U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) that will enhance Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) care and services for women veterans. The Senate and the House of Representatives passed the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvements Act of 2020, a package of veterans’ health care and benefits improvement. It includes the Deborah Sampson Act, legislation that will eliminate barriers to better support the needs of women who answer the call to serving their nation in uniform. “We need to create a culture at the VA that welcomes women veterans and makes them feel like they belong. It’s long overdue that we update the belief that when a woman seeks care at the VA it’s because her husband is the veteran,” Boozman said on the Senate floor. The bipartisan legislation was introduced by Boozman and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Ranking Member Jon Tester (D-MT). Their bill garnered support from leading Veteran Service Organizations including the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). “Women veterans comprise approximately 10 percent of the veteran population and are the fastest growing cohort within the veteran community. The VFW applauds Senator Boozman for his perseverance to ensure the Deborah Sampson Actbecomes law. The Deborah Sampson Act would require VA to address privacy concerns and improve access, expand the amount of time new mothers are given to find health care coverage for their newborns, increase staff cultural competency, eliminate harassment and assault, and make other much-needed improvements to women veterans health care. The VFW believes that VA can provide the highest quality of care to women veterans to guide and assist them during their seasons of life,” said Tammy Barlet, VFW Associate Director of National Legislative Services. “As the fastest growing veteran cohort, it is past time that women veterans receive care that is equal to both their male veteran counterparts and care that civilians receive,” said Jeremy Butler, CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. “We applaud Senator Boozman and Senator Tester for their continuous dedication to women veterans over the years and ensuring that the Deborah Sampson Act was passed before the end of the 116th Congress.” There are 19,000 women veterans in Arkansas. According to VA data, women comprise 10 percent of the veteran population. That number is expected to increase to more than 16 percent within the next 25 years.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-announces-senior-staff-change,Westerman Announces Senior Staff Change,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,westerman,https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) announced that his chief of staff, Vivian Moeglein, will be leaving his personal office to join the House Committee on Natural Resources as its first female Republican staff director. Westerman will become the committee's ranking member in January 2021. Sarah Slocum Collins, a Fourth District native and senior manager of federal government relations for Tyson Foods Inc., will replace Moeglein as chief of staff. Westerman issued the following statement: ""Over the past five years, Vivian has been an invaluable resource to our team. She brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, and I've been so blessed to benefit from her leadership and political savvy in D.C. I know she will be an exceptional leader on the committee. I'm also thrilled to welcome Sarah to Capitol Hill as she takes on this new role. As an Arkansan, a proud University of Arkansas Law School alumna and an experienced legal consultant, Sarah is very familiar with both state and federal policy and will lead our office well. I'm so grateful to both of them for their service to the Fourth District of Arkansas. We have many exciting years ahead!"" Background Moeglein took on the chief of staff position for Westerman in 2015, where she oversaw all staff operations, policy negotiations, long-term legislative plans and more. Prior to joining Westerman's office, Moeglein was the senior advisor for transportation programs at the American Council of Engineering Companies. She also worked in legislative roles for U.S. Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson while they were both serving as congressmen in the U.S. House of Representatives. Collins grew up in Sheridan, Ark., received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Central Arkansas, and received her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Arkansas School of Law. She worked in Northwest Arkansas for the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and in Little Rock for Roberts Law Firm before moving to D.C. in 2017, where she has since been a member of Tyson Foods Inc.'s federal government affairs team.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-smith-suozzi-introduce-bill-to-stop-chinese-forced-organ-harvesting,"Cotton, Smith, Suozzi Introduce Bill to Stop Chinese Forced Organ Harvesting",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 16, 2020 Cotton, Smith, Suozzi Introduce Bill to Stop Chinese Forced Organ Harvesting Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Congressmen Chris Smith (R-New Jersey) and Tom Suozzi (D-New York) today announced the Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act, which aims to prevent the Chinese Communist Party from harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience. According to an international tribunal in London, Chinese doctors harvest organs from detainees in Chinese prison camps—sometimes while patients are still alive—for sale in a market worth $1 billion a year. Bill text may be found here. “There is growing evidence that the Chinese Communist Party has and continues to harvest organs from prisoners and members of Chinese religious groups. This bill will identify and punish CCP members involved in forced organ harvesting. It’s past time to hold Beijing accountable for these heinous acts,” said Cotton. “Organ harvesting is a barbaric, inhumane and egregious act of global significance as transnational human trafficking gangs, terrorist organizations, profiteers and even governments – China’s Communist regime in particular – kill innocent people and sell their organs for profit,” said Smith. “A global problem requires a global response. Under our bill, organ harvesters and traffickers, who often prey on vulnerable populations like political prisoners or minorities, will be identified and exposed by the State Department with the goal of punishing perpetrators and promoting effective sanctions and restrictions on travel. The bill will help shed more light on these horrific activities, enable the naming of names of the vicious perpetrators and ultimately help put an end this gruesome human rights abuse.” ""For years, the Chinese Communist Party has continued to take advantage of prisoners and members of ethnic minority and religious groups. Today, we are still witnessing them take further advantage of these groups through organ harvesting,"" said Suozzi. ""Members of the Chinese Communist Party must be held accountable for these unspeakable actions. Forced organ harvesting has no place in our world."" Background The Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act: Authorizes the U.S. government to deny or revoke passports for illegal organ purchasers. Mandates annual reporting on forced organ harvesting in foreign countries. This State Department reporting would identify foreign officials and entities responsible for forced organ harvesting. Mandates an annual report on U.S. institutions that train organ transplant surgeons affiliated with foreign entities involved in forced organ harvesting. Prohibits the export of organ transplant surgery devices to entities responsible for forced organ harvesting. Sanctions foreign officials and entities that engage in or otherwise support forced organ harvesting.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8133,Hill Continues to Push for Community Banking Relief,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill Continues to Push for Community Banking Relief f t # e Little Rock, December 15, 2020 Little Rock, Ark. Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) issued the following statement after the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. voted to finalize a regulation that narrows the scope of companies that are considered deposit brokers:I appreciate the work the FDIC has done to modernize the way banks access deposits and the benefits they provide for their customers. FDIC's release of this final rule shows their commitment to advancement in technology and the importance of allowing banks to be able to take advantage of these changes. Unfortunately, though, the rule doesn't go quite far enough. I have long advocated that custodial deposits should not be considered brokered-deposits as evidenced by H.R. 4383, the Community Bank Deposit Access Act which I introduced with Rep. Charlie Crist. Unfortunately, this FDIC rule still does not make this clear. Custodial deposits empower community banks to attract the deposit funding needed to retain valuable local customer relationships with loans that serve the needs of communities like mine in central Arkansas. I urge the FDIC to make this clarification. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-announces-nominations-military-academies-0,Westerman Announces Nominations to Military Academies,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,westerman,https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) announced the Fourth District's student nominations to military academies. Westerman issued the following statement: ""I'd like to encourage all Fourth District students interested in serving their country to consider attending a military academy. America's freedom and values depend on the courage of young people who put on a uniform and fight to protect liberty. U.S. military academies offer unparalleled opportunities to serve while obtaining a fully-funded, top-notch education."" Background To attend a U.S. service academy, students must be nominated by either the vice president, their senator or their representative. All interested candidates are seniors in high school or currently attending an Academy Preparatory School, and they fill out a packet and submit it through their elected representative's office. The nomination deadline was Nov. 1, 2020. Below are the students Westerman nominated to military academies: Harrison Brownlee from Hot Springs, nominated to the U.S. Military Academy David Carter from Hot Springs, nominated to the Merchant Marine Academy and Naval Academy Samuel Bell from Norman, nominated to the Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy and Naval Academy Daniel Stuckey from Rison, nominated to the Air Force Academy Adrian Post from Altus, nominated to the Air Force Academy Cody Lambert from Redfield, nominated to the Air Force Academy Angie Saldana from Magnolia, nominated to the Air Force Academy",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/kait-u-s-senators-pay-tribute-to-fallen-helena-west-helena-police-officer,KAIT: U.S. senators pay tribute to fallen Helena-West Helena police officer,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON (KAIT) - On the floor of the U.S. Senate, Sen. John Boozman and Sen. Tom Cotton, of Arkansas, remembered Helena-West Helena Police Officer Travis Wallace who was killed in the line of duty back onNov. 12, 2020. Officer Travis Wallace was shot and killed while trying to apprehend a suspect in a shooting that happened on Sunday, Nov. 8.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/senators-boozman-cotton-pay-tribute-to-fallen-helen-west-helena-officer,Senators Boozman & Cotton Pay Tribute to Fallen Helen-West Helena Officer,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONArkansas Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton paid tribute tothe service and sacrifice of Helena-West Helena Police Department Officer Travis Wallace who was killed in the line of duty on November 12, 2020. Officer Wallace served with professionalism and dedication,Boozman said during remarks on the Senate floor.He demonstrated his passion and commitment for helping those in need. We celebrate his life and example of courageous selfless public service. OfficerWallacedid his job and his duty with honor. Now his watch has ended, but we will always remember the great sacrifice he made to keep his community and our state safe. May he rest in peace,Cotton said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/safeguarding-against-scams-this-holiday-season,Avoid Scams This Holiday Season,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Like much of 2020, this holiday season will look different, but for one group of individuals, not much has changed. Thieves who prey on vulnerable Americans seek an opening to strike. The holiday season, and all its added stresses, always makes for a perfect opportunity. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has been highlighting holiday-related scams in a rather creative way this year. On its website, the agency has been promoting the 12 Days of Consumer Protection in an effort to raise public awareness of common scams making the rounds. Here are three big hoaxes to guard against. Phishing scams: Package shipments always spike during holidays. This year, as more families opt out of traveling, and gatherings shrink in size, more Christmas gifts will be delivered to homes across the country. Scammers are highly aware of this and seek to capitalize by disguising their phishing attempts as shipping alerts. These emails or text messages appear to be from the U.S. Postal Serviceor other well-known shipping companies like UPS or FedExand have all the hallmarks of a legitimate notification. In reality, they are phishing emails that seek to infect your device with a virus or malware that steals your identity and passwords. Protect yourself from falling victim by avoiding links or attachments for any unexpected sender. Be sure to carefully inspect any incoming message that asks for action like this. Additionally, make sure you keep your software and operating system up to date so your device has the latest security updates. Gift card scams:Gift cards, always a popular item this time of the year, are likely to be even more in demand since they are easy items to mail to friends and family. The issue here is that thieves may have gotten to that gift card before you even brought it to the cashier to purchase. Here's how to avoid having that happen: Buy gift cards from trusted sources to avoid getting fake or stolen cards. Inspect gift cards before you buy to ensure it hasn't been physically compromised. Keep the receipt, or include it with the card, in case the recipient has a problem trying to redeem it. Report a lost or stolen gift card immediately. Charitable scams:The spirit of the holiday season leads to an increase in charitable giving during December. This year has been difficult on us all and there are many in need of help, so we certainly want to encourage giving. Let's do it safely. Don't be rushed into giving over the phone, always research charities before you donate and do not give to anyone who asks you pay in cash, wire money or use a gift card. As we strive to keep ourselves and loved ones safe from COVID-19, let's also remember to be protect each other from those who seek to exploit the chaos and cash in at the expense of the innocent. I encourage everyone to visithttps://www.consumer.ftc.govand familiarize yourselves with these and other holiday scams so you can avoid being a target for criminals.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/giving-back-our-community,Giving Back to Our Community,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,,,legacy,"This is the season of giving, and many of us have an opportunity to personally give back to those recovering from COVID-19. Blood donations have plummeted during the pandemic, and the Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI) is in desperate need of donations, especially convalescent plasma to save the lives of those in critical condition due to COVID-19. If you've tested positive for COVID-19, your blood contains convalescent plasma, which carries antibodies for the virus. A single donation can provide potentially lifesaving plasma for up to four patients fighting the virus. When I learned over the summer that I had the COVID-19 antibodies, I signed up to donate my plasma to help others during the pandemic. It's a simple, quick process that could save lives of others in your community. Even if you haven't had COVID-19, I'd still encouraged you to donate blood, as every donation is potentially lifesaving. Thankfully, COVID-19 is not a blood-borne disease and you are unlikely to contract the virus from giving blood if you follow appropriate personal hygiene guidelines such as wearing a face covering, frequently washing your hands and maintaining social distancing when possible. To donate plasma through the ABI, visit their website or call (888) 308-3924. To find a blood drive near you, please visit the AABB or Red Cross's website, or call (800) RED-CROSS. If you cannot donate now, please consider donating in the future and encouraging those in your community to donate. The vaccine for COVID-19 is right around the corner, but until it's widely available, everyone will need to continue doing their part to care for the most vulnerable among us.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-stop-medicare-physician-payment-cuts,"Boozman, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Stop Medicare Physician Payment Cuts",2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced legislation to prevent the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' (CMS) planned physician payment cuts scheduled to begin January 1, 2021. TheHolding Providers Harmless from Medicare Cuts During COVID-19 Act of 2020would ensure payments to medical physicians are maintained at current levels for the next two years. Cutting physician payments is the last thing CMS should be doing when we're in the middle of a pandemic. Patients deserve access to quality and affordable health care. This legislation is necessary to achieve this,Boozman said. If our heroes this year are people who wear scrubs, then it is unconscionable to hit them with Medicare cuts as a New Year's gift,Hyde-Smith said.This legislation needs to be passed before the holidays to provide relief to the very healthcare professionals who bear the burden of fighting this pandemic. Health care providers in North Dakota and across the country face significant financial strain caused by COVID-19. They can't afford these cuts, and we can't afford to lose their services,said Cramer. Our bill helps ensure these providers can continue the admirable service they've displayed throughout the pandemic without having another reason to worry about their bottom line. Many frontline health care providers face substantial Medicare reimbursement cutsbeginning on January 1st.Our health care system is already under tremendous strain due to the pandemic. Our bill stops these cuts from taking effect and imposing any further burden on our providers during this public health emergency,Cotton said. These reimbursement cuts primarily fall on the backs of health care providers across non-primary care specialties from radiology to physical therapy to orthopaedic surgery. If these ill-timed payment cuts go into effect, they could have a devastating effect on providers, health care practices, and, most important, patient access to care,said Collins.Our legislation would halt these payments cuts from going into effect at the start of the New Year, helping to ensure that we do not further burden our health care system that is already struggling due to the pandemic. The legislation is supported by a number of health care industry groups including the American Medical Association, American Optometric Association, the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons. Our nation's physicians are under incredible strain due to COVID-19, and this bill begins to correct a misguided and ill-timed policy that would cut health care spending in the middle of a pandemic. Time is running out to reverse these cuts and protect patients. We thank Sen. Boozman for his leadership on this issue and will continue to partner with him and his Congressional colleagues to protect patients' access to quality surgical care,saidDavid B. Hoyt, MD, FACS, American College of Surgeons Executive Director. Last week, Boozman led a bipartisan group of senatorscalling on Senate leadershipto stop the scheduled cuts. Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA) and Larry Bucshon, M.D. (R-IN).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-ndaa-makes-critical-investments-to-defend-our-country-against-evolving-threats,Boozman: NDAA makes critical investments to defend our country against evolving threats,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) will vote to support the Fiscal Year 2021National Defense Authorization Act(NDAA) that includes defense priorities he championed to improve military readiness, expand services for military families and invest in Arkansas's role in our national defense. Congress has a responsibility to bolster our national security and ensure the men and women in uniform have the resources, tools and training necessary to help them carry out their missions. The NDAA makes critical investments to defend our country against evolving threats posed by adversaries likeChina while supporting our troops with a three percent pay raise and improving the housing and child care needs of military families.While the bill may not be perfect, it will modernize our military and ensure service members have the capabilities to defend our interests, Boozman said. Arkansas-related provisions championed by Boozman are highlighted below: Authorizes a new Arkansas National Guard Readiness Training Center at Fort Chaffee. Boozman secured funding to construct the center which will provide greater support for training exercises and help ensure Arkansas guardsmen continue to be some of the best. Increases funding for the 188thWing renewable energy project. Maintains the Air Force'sC-130 fleet which will strengthen the Little Rock Air Force Base mission. Improves child care assistance for military families who are assigned to around-the-clock, stateside rotations unitslike the 188thWing in Fort Smith. The provisiondirects the Department of Defense to research, report and provide recommendations to Congress on how to provide 24-hour child care to military families. Authorizes funding supporting the deployment of the Iron Dome short-range protection system to the U.S. Army. Earlier this year,Boozman encouraged the Army to incorporate the protection system into the force andcalled on then-Secretary of Defense Mark Esper to deploy capabilitiesto safeguard U.S. and coalition members in the Middle East.A portion of the Iron Dome defense system is produced in Camden, Arkansas. Boozman also successfully led the effort to secure funds for the military newspaperStars and Stripesto continue after the Department of Defense planned to eliminate the media outlet.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8115,"Hill Hails Supreme Court Ruling to Support Community Pharmacies, Lower Health Care Costs",2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill Hails Supreme Court Ruling to Support Community Pharmacies, Lower Health Care Costs f t # e Washington, December 10, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C. Today, after the United State Supreme Court rules unanimously to reinstate an Arkansas law to allow the state ensure pharmacy benefit managers (PBM) do not pay less than wholesale rates to community pharmacies, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) released the following statement: I am pleased with the Supreme Court's ruling to support the commonsense approach of Arkansas and the 45 states that joined our state. This is a major victory for Arkansas consumers who deserve access to lower health care prices and independent pharmacists because it will help ensure they are fairly reimbursed and will help keep the doors open at these community facilities that provide to the community so much more than prescriptions."" PBMs process prescription drug claims and then reimburse the pharmacies. The Arkansas legislature passed this law because they noted that often community and independent pharmacies were receiving low reimbursement rates for generic drugs, causing many independent, rural pharmacies to close. This case, led by Arkansas, and in partnership with 45 other states, the District of Columbia, and the Trump Administration, is a significant step towards lowering prescription drug prices and supporting independent pharmacies. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8118,Hill Demands Answers for American Taxpayer at Congressional Oversight Commission Hearing,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON D.C. Today, the Congressional Oversight Commission held its third public hearing to examinethe funds authorized by the CARES Act that provide up to $17 billion for loans and loan guarantees to businesses critical to maintaining national security.U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was the sole witness at the hearing. At the hearing, and after conducting thorough oversight of these loans, Rep. French Hill (AR02) expressed particular concerns with the loan provided to YRC Worldwide by the Treasury, stating that he believes it might have been a misstep by the federal government. He used the hearing to raise these concerns and get answers for the American taxpayer. At today's hearing, I voiced my concerns to the Treasury Secretary about the loan made to YRC Worldwide, said Rep. Hill. YRC Worldwide has been hanging on by a thread since the global financial crisis and has survived only because of government bailouts and financial assistance from the private equity industry. After analyzing the data and reviewing YRC's collateral, I would not have given this company a loan. Watch Rep. French Hill's opening remarks and questions from the hearing HERE or by clicking on the image below. Rep. Hill's key questions for Secretary Mnuchin are copied below: Rep. Hill: When you were reviewing this credit application, were you aware of this debt-for-equity swap and trouble YRC had at the end of the financial crisis? Secretary Mnuchin: I believe the team was. I was not specifically aware of that. Rep. Hill: So, in addition to the valuation questions on the collateral pool I talked about, I wondered if the team had had conversations with the other senior creditors for tranche A on a different sharing arrangement before you agreed to the terms. Secretary Mnuchin: Well, I can tell you we obviously had discussions with other creditors because we needed intercreditor agreements on other issues. I personally don't recall any of those conversations. Adam Lerrick who led the team was here and can follow up with your office. And again, let me just reiterate Representative Hill and others. This was a risky loan. We have been fortunate that the economy recovered and that the equity is doing well, and I am going to recommend that next year whoever is Treasury Secretary seriously look at selling this loan in recovering what I think will be a profit to taxpayers because this was a success. We do not want to be in the long-term business of lending to this type of company or any of the national security companies, but, fortunately, we have made a significant profit and taxpayers should get paid back. Rep. Hill: What recommendations would you make, now having gone through this CARES Act, when it comes to drafting this kind of language in the future, for future treasury secretaries? Would you have a different caveat than simply having the DOD secretary certify that a company is essential to national security, and in your personal view do you think an LTL trucking company is essential to national security? Secretary Mnuchin: Let me just say, if I had to do it all over again, I would use the same criteria. Again, I think the intent when we did this was there was going to be some big companies, but again, we set up the intent early on. It's not my position to comment on the DOD's certification, although I will make a comment that I do agree with. I hope that the Pentagon looks at all of their critical vendors and looks at the financial condition in spreading risk. Had they not had this type of exposure, perhaps they wouldn't have certified it. Rep. Hill: From my review of the collateral pool, it does not look like it's at all adequately secured for covering both Apollo and tranche A plus the other obligations of the company. I just would ask your view: did you look at the collateral pool and do you believe that the collateral protected the American taxpayers? Secretary Mnuchin: The answer to that is yes. We did a thorough analysis of the collateral pool. We consulted with Perella Weinberg who was our financial advisor on this loan and all the national security loans and let me comment we did get equity and our equity is currently worth $100 million dollars. Rep. Hill: That's because the stock has increased because the Treasury now has made this loan, and I agree the company was certainly near bankruptcy before the credit.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/senate-passes-boozman-bill-to-bolster-va-care-and-services-for-women-veterans,Senate Passes Boozman Bill to Bolster VA Care and Services for Women Veterans,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONTheSenate passed a package of veterans' health care and benefits improvements that incorporates a number of U.S. Senator John Boozman's (R-AR) legislative priorities, including enhancing Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) care and services for women veterans. TheDeborah Sampson Act,bipartisan legislation introduced by Boozman and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT), was included in the comprehensive veterans package. The Boozman-Tester language will eliminate barriers to care and services that many women veterans face and help ensure the VA can address the needs of women veterans who are more likely to face homelessness, unemployment and go without needed health care. VA facilities need to be updated to accommodate the growing number of women veterans so we can meet their needs. Ensuring the VA has the capability to providemore equitable care and services is key to fulfilling our promise.Passage of this bill will enable us to better support women who answer the call to serve their nation in uniform,Boozman said. This is a groundbreaking moment as we push VA to provide better access to care and services for thenearly two million livingwomen veterans across the country,said Ranking Member Tester.Women have served in uniform since the American Revolution and are now the fastest growing population of veterans in the country. It's our responsibility to make sure VA health care and benefits are tailored to meet their needs and are accessible to them and their families. Unanimous passage of ourDeborah Sampson Actsends a clear message to women veteransand the American publicthat Congress is willing to come together to do what's necessary and follow through on this sacred duty. There are 19,000 women veterans in Arkansas. According to VA data, women comprise 10 percent of the veteran population. That number is expected to increase to more than 16 percent within the next 25 years. The senators first introduced the legislation in 2017. Their bill garnered support from leading Veteran Service Organizations includingthe Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Additional Boozman-authored and championed provisions approved by the Senate in theJohnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvements Act of 2020include: Expandingwartime benefitsto veterans who served in the Vietnam War and have been ineligible for assistance because of differences between the war era dates at the Department of Defense (DoD) and the VA.Currently,DoD recognizes the Vietnam War era as November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, whilethe VArecognizes the Vietnam War era as February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975. This discrepancy has prevented members of the U.S. Military Assistance Advisory Group from qualifying for wartime veterans benefits like the veterans pension. Increasingthe number ofhealth care providerswho are allowed to conduct the required medical exam for veterans applying for benefits in order to help reduce backlog. Improving access to specialized trainingthat would ensureVA grant-funded cemeteries meet and maintainthe National Cemetery Administration's (NCA) National Shrine Commitment. Updating the VA's funeral benefits to treat all non-service connected deaths equally, regardless of where the veteran passes away. Closing a loophole that prevents the VA from putting the names of veterans' family members on headstones in private cemeteries. Currently, the VA is only authorized to put veterans' family members' names on headstones in national, state and tribal veterans' cemeteries. Modernizing theServicemembers Civil Relief Act(SCRA) topermit servicemembers to deliver notice of termination of residential and car leases electronically, including by email. Expanding the list of work-study activities that qualify for payment of work-study allowances under the VA's rehabilitation, training and education programs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-introduces-bill-to-increase-child-support-payments-,Cotton Introduces Bill to Increase Child Support Payments,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 10, 2020 Cotton Introduces Bill to Increase Child Support Payments Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) introduced the Child Support Works Act, a bill that would increase child-support payments to custodial parents and children. The Child Support Works Act would allow state child-support agencies to be reimbursed for operating mandatory work programs for non-custodial parents. These programs have proven effective at helping non-custodial parents develop positive work ethics and fulfill the requirements of their child-support orders. Bill text may be found here. This bill is supported by the National Child-Support Enforcement Association. “Fathers have an obligation to care for their children. Child-support orders can help parents fulfill this obligation by requiring them to work. This bill would provide additional resources to state child-support agencies so they can help parents get back on their feet and provide for their family,” said Cotton. Background: Child-support enforcement is one of the most effective anti-poverty programs in the country, lifting more than one million families over the poverty line each year. However, approximately one-quarter of child-support cases aren’t paid, often because the non-custodial parent doesn’t have a job. At least 30 states and the District of Columbia operate some form of program to help or require non-custodial parents to find work if they are underemployed, unemployed, or delinquent on their child-support order. These programs have proven effective at increasing child-support payments and employment among non-custodial parents. Court-ordered programs have proven especially effective. The federal government partially reimburses states for expenses they incur through their child-support enforcement programs, but currently child-support work programs are not eligible for reimbursement. The Child Support Works Act would allow states to be reimbursed at the normal, 66% matching rate for expenditures on mandatory work programs for non-custodial parents who are underemployed, unemployed, or behind on their child-support payments.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-statement-on-agreement-between-israel-and-morocco,Cotton Statement on Agreement Between Israel and Morocco,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 10, 2020 Cotton Statement on Agreement Between Israel and Morocco Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the following statement on the normalization of diplomatic relations between Israel and Morocco: “I commend our friend and partner, the Kingdom of Morocco, for establishing diplomatic relations with Israel. Morocco’s decision is another vital step towards peace in the Middle East and Africa. This achievement further advances the promise of The Abraham Accords and was reached thanks to the vision of the president and his team.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases/virtual-congressional-delegation-brings-together-us-and-mexican-businesses,VIRTUAL CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION BRINGS TOGETHER US AND MEXICAN BUSINESSES,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,"Eric A. ""Rick"" Crawford",C001087,crawford.house.gov,crawford,https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Rick Crawford of Arkansas led a first of its kind virtual delegation, hosted by the Council of the Americas, that brought some 40 representatives of American and Mexican companies together to discuss trade and investment between the two countries. Congressman Crawford was joined by Texas Congressmen Jodey Arrington and Vicente Gonzalez. ""I appreciate the efforts of the Council of the Americas to bring together my colleagues in Congress and representatives of the U.S. and Mexican business communities to discuss business and trade opportunities, especially as we continue to cope with the impact of COVID-19. Our two countries have a strong economic relationship, as exemplified by recent trade figures and the implementation of USMCA. It is important that we continue to explore ways to expand market access and supply chains that are mutually beneficial to our communities on both sides of the border,"" said Congressman Crawford. Congressman Arrington stated, ""The U.S.- Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) was one of the biggest accomplishments of the 116th Congress. This historic trade deal has been a major win for our farmers, ranchers, and energy producers who feed, fuel, and clothe the world. I look forward to my discussion with the CODEL participants and continuing to improve and grow our mutually beneficial trade relationship with Mexico."" ""There are many challenges that Mexico and the United States must face together. The virtual delegation put together by the Council of Americas was an important medium to discuss the issues critical to South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley. Businesses on both side of the border depend on trade and tourism and are struggling as a result of the pandemic. It is vital to South Texas' and Mexico's economic interests that we continue to promote a business environment that is both safe and fair for workers and investors. I look forward to future discussions and improving the economic and diplomatic relationship between our two countries with the help of the incoming Biden administration."", said Congressman Gonzalez. Eric Farnsworth, Vice President of the Council highlighted the innovative nature of the effort. ""We were pleased to host this virtual delegation to highlight the opportunities for trade and investment between Mexico and the United States. We are grateful for the leadership of Congressmen Crawford, Arrington and Gonzalez in paving the way for this type of virtual engagement, and plan to build on this success.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://crawford.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399402,VIRTUAL CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION BRINGS TOGETHER US AND MEXICAN BUSINESSES,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Rick Crawford,C001087,crawford.house.gov,,,legacy,"VIRTUAL CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION BRINGS TOGETHER US AND MEXICAN BUSINESSES Congressman Rick Crawford of Arkansas led a first of its kind virtual delegation, hosted by the Council of the Americas, that brought some 40 representatives of American and Mexican companies together to discuss trade and investment between the two countries. Congressman Crawford was joined by Texas Congressmen Jodey Arrington and Vicente Gonzalez. I appreciate the efforts of the Council of the Americas to bring together my colleagues in Congress and representatives of the U.S. and Mexican business communities to discuss business and trade opportunities, especially as we continue to cope with the impact of COVID-19. Our two countries have a strong economic relationship, as exemplified by recent trade figures and the implementation of USMCA. It is important that we continue to explore ways to expand market access and supply chains that are mutually beneficial to our communities on both sides of the border, said Congressman Crawford. Congressman Arrington stated, The U.S.- Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) was one of the biggest accomplishments of the 116th Congress. This historic trade deal has been a major win for our farmers, ranchers, and energy producers who feed, fuel, and clothe the world. I look forward to my discussion with the CODEL participants and continuing to improve and grow our mutually beneficial trade relationship with Mexico. There are many challenges that Mexico and the United States must face together. The virtual delegation put together by the Council of Americas was an important medium to discuss the issues critical to South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley. Businesses on both side of the border depend on trade and tourism and are struggling as a result of the pandemic. It is vital to South Texas' and Mexico's economic interests that we continue to promote a business environment that is both safe and fair for workers and investors. I look forward to future discussions and improving the economic and diplomatic relationship between our two countries with the help of the incoming Biden administration., said Congressman Gonzalez. Eric Farnsworth, Vice President of the Council highlighted the innovative nature of the effort. We were pleased to host this virtual delegation to highlight the opportunities for trade and investment between Mexico and the United States. We are grateful for the leadership of Congressmen Crawford, Arrington and Gonzalez in paving the way for this type of virtual engagement, and plan to build on this success.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8110,Hill Announces Hiring of New Press Assistant,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill Announces Hiring of New Press Assistant f t # e Washington, December 9, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C. Today, Congressman French Hill (AR-02) announced that Preston Mizell joined his staff to serve as Press Assistant. Preston graduated with a degree in Economics from Florida State University and started his career on Capitol Hill in the office of Congressman Adam Kinzinger (IL-16) before becoming Press Assistant and Legislative Correspondent for retiring Congressman Francis Rooney (FL-19).I look forward to Preston bringing new energy, enthusiasm, and ideas to my office and communications team,said Rep. Hill.Preston will provide effective and authentic communication as he corresponds with the hard-working men and women of Arkansas. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8119,"Hill Supports Short-Term Spending, Calls on Democrats to Prioritize COVID-19 Relief",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill Supports Short-Term Spending, Calls on Democrats to Prioritize COVID-19 Relief f t # e Washington, December 9, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C. Today, after voting for a short-term government funding bill to fund the federal government while the House and Senate finalize the long-term spending package, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) issued the following statement:Democrats and Republicans have agreed to continue vital discussions on the final 2021 appropriations and critically needed targeted relief from the ravages of COVID-19. Let's get the job done. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/times-dispatch-sen-boozman-meets-with-wbu-trustees,TIMES-DISPATCH: Sen. Boozman meets with WBU Trustees,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Board of Trustees at Williams Baptist University welcomed U.S. Sen. John Boozman to their regularly scheduled meeting on Friday. Boozman joined the trustees for lunch and heard an update on recent developments at WBU in general and on the Williams Works program in particular. The senator also shared news from Washington with those gathered. We were honored to have Sen. Boozman back on the Williams campus and to hear firsthand about important issues facing our nation and our region, said Dr. Stan Norman, president of WBU. We were also grateful to have the opportunity to share with him the exciting things happening at WBU, especially about the new initiatives we recently launched as part of our Williams Works initiative. WBU launched the Williams Works initiative this fall. Students selected for the program work 16 hours per week throughout the fall and spring semesters, and in exchange their tuition and fees are covered. Students who work full time through the summer can also have their room and board expenses paid, giving them the chance to graduate debt-free. Dr. Norman explained to Boozman and others gathered for the luncheon that part of the inspiration for developing the work-college model was a conversation with a student who had completed her associates degree and was transferring to a different school to complete her studies. I asked her why she was leaving and she told me that after two years, she had $62,000 in debt, Norman said. She told me, I can't sustain this,' and I thought there has to be a better way of doing this. Full story:https://www.jonesborosun.com/times_dispatch/news/sen-boozman-meets-with-wbu-trustees/article_88c79be3-a35e-522a-88cf-c71cb3bbcc4a.html",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8109,Hill’s National Security Priorities Included in Annual Defense Bill,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON D.C. Following approval of the conference report to accompany H.R. 6395, the William M. Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by a bipartisan vote of 335-78, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) released the following statement: It is up to Congress to determine how best to utilize the dollars from hard-working American taxpayers for our national defense and security priorities, and as a part of this year's funding, I am pleased to see a pay raise for the servicemen and servicewomen who defend our nation in the annual defense bill. This year's bill also supports our local mission at the Little Rock Air Force Base (LRAFB) by allocating funds to upgrade our nation's C-130 fleet, enabling LRAFB to maintain its crucial role in our military's airlift capabilities for years to come. Following shooting at Naval Air StationPensacola, the NDAA requires a more thorough process for vetting foreign nationals on our lands and their access to military bases. This is key as pilots and crews from other countries routinely train at LRAFB. This bill also supports our service members and military families by initiating mental healthcare reforms to prevent suicide, improves military family housing, and includes additional reforms designed to prevent sexual assault and harassment. ""This year's NDAA also includes two of my important national security policies, both of which have passed the House of Representatives with bipartisan approval. With the continued expansion of the Chinese Community Party's (CCP) Belt and Road' initiative, and the country's increasing role as an international creditor, there is an urgent need for greater transparency of lending terms to ensure that the CCP does not take advantage of developing nations and economies. My legislation, the Ensuring Chinese Debt Transparency Act, will ensure transparency in lending terms developing countries receive from the CCP and international financial institutions (IFIs) such as the IMF and World Bank. Another bill I introduced, the Cooperate with Law Enforcement Agencies and Watch (CLAW) Act, helps the financial services industry partner with law enforcement agencies to monitor the flow of cash associated with criminal activities. During my time as a community banker, I experienced the conflict of wanting to assist law enforcement agencies but being limited by Anti-Money Laundering or Bank Secrecy Act requirements, and this bill promotes cooperation between the two groups to allow law enforcement agencies to keep our financial system safe from criminals and terrorists while eliminating conflicting repercussions for the financial services industry.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404273,"Womack Supports Final WRDA Bill, Secures Wins for Arkansas",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Steve Womack,W000809,womack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCDecember 8, 2020.Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today supported the passage of theWater Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020, which includes Third District priorities and will help strengthen ports and harbors, inland waterway navigation, flood and storm protection, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers programs, and other water infrastructure. The legislation includes several Womack-supported provisions that will greatly benefit Arkansas, including the advancement of the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System (MKARNS) channel deepening project. Congressman Womack said, This year's WRDA makes great investments in the Natural State's water infrastructure. I was proud to work alongside the Arkansas delegation to help secure advancement of the MKARNS channel deepening project and ongoing levee modernization following last year's severe storms. By increasing capacity of one of the region's greatest economic assets and enhancing flooding resiliency, we are ensuring the longevity and protection of our navigational systems and communities. Womack-supported WRDA policies include provisions that: Advance the MKARNS 12-foot channel deepening project, a key priority that Womack has advocated for and helped secure. The completed project is expected to allow for an additional 630 tons per barge to be transported and estimated to save more than $43 million in annual shipping costs; Adjust the cost share for Inland Waterways System projects to help expedite the completion of ongoing and future projects; Increase flood resiliency by streamlining U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construction authority for communities that experience continual flood loss; and Strengthen opportunities for the Corps to provide needed projects and feasibility studies in rural communities. With nearly 80 percent of traded goods that Americans rely on being moved through our nation's ports, harbors, and inland waterways,WRDAis essential legislation that focuses on strengthening America's water infrastructure and resources. The comprehensive package is reauthorized every two years. The final version of the bill will now advance to the Senate for consideration. Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas's Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. womack.house.gov ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404278,"Womack, House Pass NDAA Conference Report",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Steve Womack,W000809,womack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCDecember 8, 2020.Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted to pass the conference report to theWilliam M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)for Fiscal Year 2021. The legislation, which includes several Womack-supported provisions, authorizes $740.5 billion for national defense activities, including resources to equip our troops, support military families, enhance defense capabilities, strengthen military readiness, and modernize the force. Congressman Womack said, We have a constitutional obligation to protect the homeland and support the men and women who stand watch over freedom. The NDAA is fundamental to that duty, and this bill provides our troops with a well-deserved pay raise and the resources, training, and equipment needed to remain the most capable and superior fighting force in the world. It also prioritizes a Fort Chaffee infrastructure project, invests in Arkansas's military installations, and confronts emerging threats from authoritarian adversaries like China and Russia. While some disagreements on partisan provisions remain, the legislation overwhelmingly includes the elements necessary for a strong defense. My vote today is for our heroes in uniform who keep us safe and secure. Provisions of the bill that Womack strongly supports include authorizations that will: Provide our courageous troops with a pay raise; Allow for an Ebbing Air National Guard Base energy project; Improve infrastructure at Ft. Chaffee to enhance its readiness center's capabilities; Include sanctions to stop the construction of Russia's Nord Stream 2 pipeline, an initiative Womack hascosponsoredto protect U.S. and European security; Enhance resources, including diagnostic equipment, testing capabilities, and PPE, to protect our armed forces from COVID-19; Support the Multinational Force and Observers' mission in Sinai, which is where the Gunslingers of the 2nd Battalion, 153rd Infantry Regiment, Arkansas Army National Guard deployed to following the September 11th attacks; Invest in the tools needed to keep our troops safe, well-trained, and agile; Procure critical defense equipment, including new submarines and advanced weapon systems; Modernize our nuclear deterrent to ensure it remains ready to respond, if necessary; Bolster resources to improve lethality and confront threats around the world, including aggression from Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran; and Emphasize policies and programs that advance America's security against emerging threats, including artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, biotechnology, and more. This will mark the 60th consecutive year Congress has fulfilled its constitutional duty to provide for the common defense by passing the NDAA. The final legislation was developed following a conference committee, where members from both parties and chambers reconciled policy differences between the originally passed House and Senate versions of the NDAA. It will now advance to the Senate for a vote. Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas's Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. womack.house.gov ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-study-transfer-of-israel-from-eucom-to-centcom,"Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Study Transfer of Israel from EUCOM to CENTCOM",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 8, 2020 Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Study Transfer of Israel from EUCOM to CENTCOM Washington, D.C. — Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), and Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) today introduced the Israel CENTCOM Reclassification Act (ICRA), a bill which would require the Department of Defense to conduct a study, in consultation with the Israeli government, on transferring Israel from the United States European Command (EUCOM) area of responsibility to the Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. The bill text may be found here. “Tasking CENTCOM to serve as the primary U.S. defense coordinator with Israel instead of EUCOM would acknowledge the new political reality of the Middle East under the Abraham Accords. Our bill requires a study of the potential transition, which could increase U.S.—Israel military cooperation with regional partners and help better secure the Middle East against threats like Iran,” said Cotton. “Moving Israel under CENTCOM’s responsibility has the potential to be a win-win for U.S. servicemembers and our ally, Israel. Through this study, the Pentagon will see the benefits of streamlining our chain of command and help bolster our military partnerships in the Middle East against threats around the globe,” said Ernst. “Israel continues to be one of America’s closest allies in the Middle East, and we must ensure we maintain our military partnership with the changing dynamics in the region,” said Tillis. “I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation that will study whether transferring Israel from European Command to Central Command is in the best interest of our respective countries.” “Transferring Israel from EUCOM to CENTCOM would be an acknowledgement of the new dynamics in the Middle East, reflecting the newfound peace and stability made possible by the historic Abraham Accords President Trump secured this year,” said Cramer. “This commonsense move would allow better coordination between the United States and our Middle East allies, and we expect the study our bill would create would reflect that."" Background: The historic Abraham Accords between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain have dramatically changed the Middle East security environment in favor of peace and cooperation between Israel and neighboring Arab countries. With this new regional reality, transferring Israel to CENTCOM—which handles military operations in the Middle East—may help optimize coordination among the United States, Israel, and other partners in the Middle East on regional security issues, such as countering Iran. Reclassifying Israel as part of CENTCOM would advance the mission of the Abraham Accords by deepening coordination between the United States and its allies and partners in the Middle East on vital defense activities and would ensure that U.S.-Israel military cooperation accounts for current realities in the region.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/accounting-for-our-heroes,Accounting for our Heroes,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The last time Emily Utterback saw her big brother Samuel Cyrus Steiner was in 1940 when he left home to join the Navy. Because he'd be away for her birthday, he gave her his pocket knife as an early present. During his assignment in Hawaii, he also sent her a handkerchief. It is still one of Emily's prized possessions because it's her connection to her brother who went missing in action when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The Little River County, Arkansas native was among the 429 crewmen assigned to the USS Oklahoma who went down with the ship. Steiner's remains were identified earlier this year and returned to his family last month. This homecoming was made possible by the relentless pursuit of the individuals at theDefense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) who are tasked with finding and identifying the remains of men and women who served in uniform. More than 81,000 Department of Defense (DoD) personnel who served from WWII through Operation Iraqi Freedom remain unaccounted for. Leveraging innovative techniques, the agency works to account for those missing using the largest and most diverse skeletal identification laboratory in the world. By partnering with non-governmental organizations and government agencies to conduct research and extensive excavations, it has been able to account for service members in all corners of the globe and bring hope to families. Several times each year,DoD provides families with information about the ongoing activities and efforts to account for their missing loved ones.In November, the agency hosted a Family Member Update in Little Rock and shared updates with individuals representing 149 personnel. DPAA planned to have an in-person meeting, but launched its inaugural virtual event to comply with public health requirements due to COVID-19. The pandemic hascreated new hurdles for the agency. Fortunately, the team has been able to continue its forensic analyses that has resulted in the identification of 120 unaccounted personnel in Fiscal Year 2020 including Steiner and fellow Oklahoma sailorMess Attendant Third Class Isaac Parker from Woodson, Arkansas. The return of these Arkansans to their families has been a long time coming. Navy personnel worked from December 1941 through June 1944 to recover the remains of the fallen. The service members were buried in cemeteries in Hawaii until they were disinterred in 1947 so they could be identified. Only 35 Oklahoma crew members were positively identified and the remains of the other sailors and Marines were buried in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. In 2015, forensic advancements prompted the reexamination of remains associated with the Oklahoma.As of early December, 279 members of the ship's crew have been identified. DPAA personnel will continue looking for those missing in action and give answers to families waiting to hear their loved one has been found. Emily Utterback waited nearly 80 years to hear her brother had been identified. That news came this year on her birthday.We are grateful that Fireman First Class Steiner has returned home. We remain committed to providing closure for the tens of thousands of other families who deserve that same resolution.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-calls-for-funding-of-public-lands-payments-to-support-rural-communities,Boozman Calls for Funding of Public Lands Payments to Support Rural Communities,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) pressed congressional leaders to fund programs in the Fiscal Year 2021 appropriations bill that provide resources for essential services for rural counties. In abipartisan letter, Boozman and his colleagues call for robust funding for the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and the reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS). PILTprovides federal payments to nearly 1,900 local governments across 49 states to help offset losses in property taxes because of nontaxable federal land.In Arkansas, 67 counties received more than $7.6 million in PILT Funding for Fiscal Year 2020. SRS was enacted to financially assist counties with public, tax-exempt forestlands.In the most recent SRS Payment Report, Arkansas received more than $6 million in funding for Fiscal Year 2019. Boozman has supported efforts to provide long-term certainty for these programs so they can better assist rural counties with large tracts of federal lands. SRS and PILT serve as a lifeline to rural America's local governments and now, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the budgets of these rural counties have taken a hit, senators wrote in the letter. With additional demands on their resources as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, rural communities and counties are stretched thinner than ever. The letter was authored by Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). Full text of theletteris below. Dear Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, Leader Schumer and Leader McCarthy: We write to share our steadfast support for the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS) and the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program.Specifically, we urge you to include a reauthorization of SRS and maintain robust PILT funding as part of the appropriations process. SRS and PILT serve as a lifeline to rural America's local governments and now, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the budgets of these rural counties have taken a hit.These two programs fund roads, schools, law enforcement, and essential county services, such as public health programs. With additional demands on their resources as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, rural communities and counties are stretched thinner than ever. Despite being small, rural, and generally relatively remote, county governments that rely on SRS and PILT are responding to the same national health crisis facing larger cities and urban areas. Extending and funding these two programs has wide, bipartisan support, which was on display as recently as 2019, when the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a legislative hearing on PILT and SRS. As Congress works to establish a permanent county payments solution, diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that public lands provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, grazing opportunities, and wood fiber for local economies, a short-term reauthorization is critical for counties across the country. In order to assist these rural counties' response to the current public health crisis, as well as to invest in infrastructure, schools, and law enforcement, Congress must include a reauthorization of SRS, including the programmatic amendments to S. 430 passed on a broad bipartisan basis in the Energy and Natural Resources Committee.Further, we urge you to maintain robust funding for PILT as you continue funding negotiations for the remainder of the fiscal year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-colleagues-push-to-prevent-looming-cms-cuts-to-medicare-payments,"Boozman, Colleagues Push to Prevent Looming CMS Cuts to Medicare Payments",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Steve Daines (R-MR) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) along with 46 Senate colleagues, called on Senate leaders to ensure that any year-end legislative package address theCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services'(CMS) dangerous decision to severely cut physician payments beginning January 1, 2021. Health care professionals across the spectrum are reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 emergency as they continue to serve patients during this global pandemic,the senators wrote to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.The payment cuts finalized by CMS would pose a threat to providers and their patients under any circumstances, but during a pandemic the impact is even more profound. Text of the letter is below and signed letter is here. Dear Leaders McConnell and Schumer: We write to express our support for addressing upcoming physician payment cuts in ongoing legislative negotiations. We believe these cuts will further strain our health care system, which is already stressed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and jeopardize patient access to medically necessary services over the long-term. On December 1, 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services finalized the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2021. The fee schedule includes several positive attributes, including improvements for maternity care and much-needed payment increases for physicians delivering primary and other essential outpatient and office-based care to some of our nation's most vulnerable patients. These changes should take effect on January 1, 2021, as planned. However, a statutory budget neutrality rule requires that any increases in Medicare payments for these office visits, also known as evaluation and management (E/M) services, must be offset by corresponding decreases. As a result, many practitioners including surgeons, specialists, therapists and others face substantial cuts beginning on January 1, 2021, if Congress does not take action to provide relief. Health care professionals across the spectrum are reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 emergency as they continue to serve patients during this global pandemic. The payment cuts finalized by CMS would pose a threat to providers and their patients under any circumstances, but during a pandemic the impact is even more profound. Therefore, we hope to work with you to address this critical issue. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/progressive-farmer-ag-and-the-next-congress-top-republican-on-senate-agriculture-committee-points-to-opportunities-ahead,PROGRESSIVE FARMER: Ag and the Next Congress; Top Republican on Senate Agriculture Committee Points to Opportunities Ahead,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Arkansas Sen. John Boozman is looking forward to the opportunity to take the lead for Republicans on the Senate Agriculture Committee in the next Congress. With Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts, R-Kan., retiring from Congress, Boozman is in line to become either the chairman or ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, depending on the outcome of the Georgia Senate runoff elections on Jan. 5. At the moment, Boozman and other senators are waiting to see how congressional leaders and the White House negotiate a possible coronavirus aid package. At least some lawmakers have coalesced around a $908 billion package that is viewed as a starting point for final negotiations. That package includes $26 billion for nutrition and agriculture. ""I hope that, you know, in the next day or two, we can come up with a good compromise that helps,"" Boozman told DTN in a phone interview. ""Certainly, our schools or businesses, particularly small businesses, making sure that our health care providers have all of the resources that they need to fight the virus that's going on as we speak. But also to make sure that, as far as vaccination delivery, all of those kind of things are adequately funded. And I feel sure that they will be, but it's something that we need to come to an agreement."" Looking at agriculture and farm income, Boozman noted farmers appreciate the aid they have received over the past couple of years, especially in 2020 with government payments looking to account for just under 40% overall net farm income. But Boozman said such high payments cannot last. ""That's good in the sense of getting them by, but that's not sustainable long term,"" Boozman said. ""I understand that, and the Agriculture Committee understands it. And our farm community understands it."" As a result, Boozman said senators are focused on ensuring China meets its Phase One Agreement obligations to buy more agricultural products. Lawmakers expect China will uphold its end of the agreement even after President Donald Trump leaves office in January. ""We're looking forward to significant purchases next year,"" Boozman said. Boozman put a lot of emphasis on continued trade talks with the United Kingdom and European Union that would have to come through negotiations with the incoming Biden administration. More trade agreements are needed, Boozman added, because U.S. farmers are driven to increase production. ""Our farmers just do a tremendous job of producing things, and we've got to work hard to sell those products overseas,"" he said. Full story:https://www.dtnpf.com/agriculture/web/ag/news/article/2020/12/04/top-republican-senate-agriculture",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-loeffler-introduce-resolution-urging-european-union-to-protect-children-from-online-sexual-exploitation,"Cotton, Loeffler Introduce Resolution Urging European Union to Protect Children from Online Sexual Exploitation",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 7, 2020 Cotton, Loeffler Introduce Resolution Urging European Union to Protect Children from Online Sexual Exploitation Washington, D.C. – Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Kelly Loeffler (R-Georgia) today introduced a resolution urging the European Union to amend its ePrivacy Directive to assure tech companies may continue to use technology that identifies and combats child exploitation online. In its current form, the ePrivacy Directive outlaws critical tools used to combat the sexual exploitation of children. The bill text may be found here. “A world that turns a blind eye to child sexual exploitation has lost its way. This Directive, as written, will allow undetected proliferation of online child exploitation at alarming rates. But the EU can still fix it. My resolution urges the European Parliament to pass critical changes that prioritize our children’s safety. Closing our eyes to child exploitation doesn’t mean it stops—we must fight this evil together,” said Cotton. “Child exploitation is vile and does incalculable harm to children,” Loeffler said. “I strongly urge the European Union to fix the current ePrivacy Directive to protect children at home and around the world. We must do everything possible to root out child exploitation on and off-line.” Background: Several tech companies voluntarily use certain technologies—including hashing, PhotoDNA, and anti-grooming tools—to detect child sexual abuse material and grooming behavior on their platforms. These technologies identify millions of instances of child exploitation online, which are then reported to the CyberTipline, a global hotline for online child exploitation operated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. In 2019 alone, the CyberTipline received reports of 69 million images, videos, and files related to child sexual abuse, and more than 3 million of these images and videos originated from offenders in the EU. The ePrivacy Directive, set to take effect just before Christmas, would make it illegal for tech companies to use this technology in the EU. In its current form, this Directive threatens our ability to protect children from online exploitation—not just in the EU, but globally. The European Commission recently noted that the EU “has become the largest host of child sexual abuse material globally.” If this problem goes unaddressed, internet predators in the EU will abuse children all over the world, including freely trading illegal images of American children without consequences. It is unclear whether tech companies will continue to use these technologies in other countries if forced to exclude users in the EU, a devastating blow to child safety everywhere.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8103,"Hill Legislation Commemorating Arkansas Civil Rights Champion, Scipio Jones, Signed into Law",2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON D.C.Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) announced that his bill, H.R. 3317, the Scipio Jones Post Office Portrait Act, was signed into law. Rep. Hill's bill honors Arkansas civil rights champion and lawyer, Scipio Jones, by allowing his portrait to be displayed in the Little Rock post office that bears Jones's name. This achievement is the result of inspiration by Little Rock attorney John Gill and collaboration with Gill and historian Dr. Brian Mitchell of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Here in Arkansas, we are deeply proud of Scipio Jones and his important contributions to our state, and to our nation, as a civil rights icon and lawyer. In the wake of the Elaine Race Massacre in 1919, Mr. Jones bravely and successfully defended twelve African American sharecroppers who had been wrongfully charged in connection to a crime they didn't commit and placed on death row,said Rep. Hill. I am pleased that my bill, the Scipio Jones Post Office Portrait Act, finally has been signed into law to allow current and future generations to appreciate fully Mr. Jones's critical role inshaping Arkansas's history and the fight for equality. I am grateful to Sen. Boozman and Sen. Cotton for their partnership on the Senate version of this bill, my colleagues in the House and Senate for supporting this legislation, and President Trump for signing this bill into law. I also thank John Gill and Dr. Brian Mitchell for the many hours they spent helping with this project. I extend my thanks to Rep. Hill for his efforts to introduce and pass this legislation recognizing Scipio Africanus Jones and his fight for racial equality. Though born a slave, Scipio Jones dedicated himself to public service and became an attorney in Little Rock. I was proud to work with Rep. Hill to honor this Arkansas civil rights champion with a portrait in the Little Rock Post Office names in his honor,saidDr. Brian Mitchell, Assistant Professor of History at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.Scipio Jones played an important role in Arkansas's history, especially in the volatile aftermath of the Elaine Massacre, and I am excited to see him honored in this way. Rep. Hill with Dr. Brian Mitchell Soon after having the idea to include a portrait of Scipio Jones in the Scipio A. Jones Post Office in Little Rock, I discovered that this gesture would take an act of Congress to accomplish - literally,said John Gill.Thankfully, Rep. Hill enthusiastically endorsed this idea and worked with his colleagues in Washington to pass the required legislation. I am thrilled that this bill has been signed into law, and I hope this portrait will inspire our citizens and young Arkansans to follow in Mr. Jones's footsteps. Scipio Jones with Elaine Massacre defendants About Scipio Jones Scipio Africanus Jones, who was born an enslaved person in 1863, attended Walden Seminary (now Philander Smith College) and then attended Bethel Institute (now Shorter College), earning his bachelor's degree in 1885. In 1889, Jones passed the bar and was admitted to practice before theSupreme Court of Arkansasin 1900 and by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1905. After the horrific massacre of Black Americans in Elaine, Arkansas, in 1919, he defended 12 wrongly accused Black men who had been charged with murder and condemned by all-white juries. Despite its being described as a ""race riot,"" most of the victims were Black, and most of the aggressors were white. With his clients already facing execution, Jones fought their convictions in both state and federal courts. An appeal was filed with the U.S. Supreme Court arguing that the accused had been denied due process of law. After reviewing the case, the Supreme Court agreed and overturned the convictions.Moore v. Dempseychanged the nature of the Fourteenth Amendment's due process clause. The ruling allowed for federal courts to hear and examine evidence in state criminal cases to ensure that the defendants' constitutional rights were protected. It was a landmark ruling that fundamentally changed American law by ensuring that those accused of a crime had received due process. AboutH.R. 3317, Scipio Jones Post Office Portrait Act In 2007, the House passed legislation to name the post office located at 1700 Main Street in Little Rock, Arkansas, after Jones. Today, a plaque at the post office bears his name, but post office regulations restrict the items that can be placed on display. On June 18th, 2019, Rep. Hill introduced legislation to allow a full-sized portrait of Scipio Jones to be on display at the post office in Little Rock which bears his name. Funds for the portrait will be raised privately and no taxpayer money will be spent on the artwork. The legislation passed the House Committee on Oversight and Reform on December 19th, 2019, passed the full House on February 5th, 2020, passed the Senate on November 18th, and was signed into law by President Trump on December 3rd, 2020.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8104,Hill Votes Against MORE Act; Pelosi Priorities “Insulting”,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill Votes Against MORE Act; Pelosi Priorities Insulting f t # e Washington, December 4, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C. Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) voted with his Republican colleagues against H.R. 3884, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act. This legislation would decriminalize marijuana by removing it from the Controlled Substances Act and eliminating criminal penalties for any person who manufactures, distributes, or possesses marijuana.Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly hurt American workers, families, and small businesses, Speaker Pelosi once again has put the wants of special interests against the needs of the American people, said Rep. Hill. Instead of working with House Republicans to finalize a COVID-19 relief deal and give states critical flexibility to spend unused CARES Act funds, the Speaker has brought to brought the House back to Washington to vote on a bill to fund recreational marijuana use and that is insulting. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/what-they-are-saying-ranking-member-elect-bruce-westerman,What They Are Saying: Ranking Member-Elect Bruce Westerman,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,westerman,https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, the Republican Conference ratified the Republican Steering Committee's recommendation for U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) to be the next ranking member of the House Committee on Natural Resources. ""Bruce Westerman exemplifies the results-oriented leadership we need to secure wins for Republican resource management and conservation policies. I've traveled across the country with Bruce – from Alaska and Arizona to Montana, Nevada, and Texas – and he consistently demonstrates an earnest commitment to solving the resource challenges facing our nation. As the only forester in Congress, he has a uniquely advantageous understanding of our nation's land, water, and environment, and I believe our Conference would be remiss not to capitalize on his expertise. Through my work with Bruce on the Natural Resources Committee and as fellow Members of the Congressional Western Caucus, I have witnessed his strong, principled, conservative leadership. I am proud to endorse him for the Republican leader of the House Natural Resources Committee."" – Dan Newhouse, Chairman-Elect, Congressional Western Caucus ""I want to congratulate my friend, Bruce Westerman, on being elected Republican Leader of the Natural Resources Committee! Bruce has a passion for our country, forestry, and for ensuring that conservation and energy exploration go hand-in-hand. I look forward to working with him!"" – Don Young, Natural Resources Committee Chairman Emeritus and Dean of the House ""Very excited for Representative Westerman. Nobody knows these issues better than Bruce. This is great news for Arkansas and I look forward to helping him on this side of the Capitol."" – U.S. Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.) ""In the four years I've worked with Bruce on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I've known him to be a team player and a committed leader. With his leadership as the Ranking Member on the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee this Congress, our committee passed the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act through the House. He has proven his ability to engage members from all sides of an issue, work across the aisle and advance Conference priorities. All these qualities make Bruce an excellent pick to be the next Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member. I give him my full support."" – U.S. Rep. Sam Graves (R-Mo.) ""Representative Westerman is a great friend and colleague, and I'm thrilled that he'll be taking the lead as the new ranking member for the Natural Resources Committee. He has been incredibly helpful and supportive of our efforts to defend mining in Minnesota for years now. Well deserved, and congratulations Bruce!"" – U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) ""I have had the privilege of working with Congressman Westerman on resources issues since I joined him in Congress last year, as well as recently joining him on the Natural Resources Committee. He has been a great champion on critical issues both for my district and throughout the nation. Whether it is proper forest management, responsibly sourcing our country's minerals and resources, or ensuring our public lands are accessible to all Americans, we have a champion in Bruce, and I believe he would be a fantastic leader for Republicans on the Natural Resources Committee."" – U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber (R-Minn.) ""After working with Bruce for years and serving on two committees with him, he stands out as the clear choice to lead the Natural Resources Committee. The committee will play a key role in our regulatory, climate and energy future. His incomparable experience and education uniquely qualify him for the position. There is no doubt that Bruce will do an excellent job advancing conservative natural resources solutions."" – U.S. Rep. Garret Graves (R-La.) ""Congrats to Representative Westerman who was elected as Ranking Member of the Natural Resources Committee today! Congressman Westerman is a great friend who has both the passion and knowledge to lead policy reforms in forestry and land management."" – U.S. Rep. Rick Crawford (R-Ark.) ""Congrats to my good friend and fellow Arkansan Bruce Westerman on being elected the Ranking Member of the Natural Resources Committee. I can attest to his unparalleled knowledge and passion for forestry, federal land management, and smart and effective policymaking."" – U.S. Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.) ""Congratulations to my friend, Bruce Westerman, on being elected as the Natural Resources Committee's Ranking Member! An avid outdoorsman in Arkansas, Bruce's knowledge about the environment, conservation, and federal land management makes him uniquely qualified to lead the committee."" – U.S. Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.) ""Congratulations to Representative Westerman on his selection as the new Ranking Member for the Natural Resources Committee! The only forester in Congress, he is well suited to lead this important committee."" – U.S. Rep. Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.) ""I believe Bruce Westerman is an ideal person to lead the House Natural Resources Committee. As an active member of both the sportsmen's and the conservation policy communities, I have worked with Bruce on a number of natural resource issues important to our interests. His thoughtfulness and leadership, stemming from his deep knowledge and experience, on these and other natural resource issues has earned him the respect of sportsmen and conservationists. This also makes possible his skill in bringing different ideas together. In combination, these are the attributes for effectiveness and good results, and why I believe Bruce is the right candidate for leadership of the Committee."" – Simon Roosevelt, Great-Grandson of Theodore Roosevelt ""Congratulations to my friend Bruce Westerman on becoming Ranking Member of the Committee on Natural Resources! I can think of no one more qualified, knowledgeable, or dedicated to our natural resources and outdoor conservation to lead this committee."" – Asa Hutchinson, Arkansas Governor ""The American Conservation Coalition works with young Americans across the country to promote market-based, limited-government solutions to environmental challenges. Congressman Westerman's strong leadership on issues like climate change, as well as his willingness to listen to and collaborate with young leaders on developing effective policy solutions, is why he has earned ACC's full support for the Ranking Member position on the House Natural Resources Committee. His unique qualification as the only forester in Congress and proven track record as a member of the committee will allow him to effectively guide the Republican policy agenda in the 117th Congress."" – Quill Robinson, Vice President of Government Affairs, American Conservation Coalition ""Congressman Bruce Westerman understands that Republicans can lead on conservation and natural resource issues. That's why he has advanced commonsense, proactive solutions on issues such as climate change, catastrophic wildfires, and public lands access. As an engineer and the only professional forester in Congress, Westerman has personally visited rural, forested communities across the country, continues to be an outspoken advocate for the importance of active forest management, and is uniquely positioned to lead Republicans on the House Natural Resources Committee."" – Travis Joseph, President and CEO, American Forest Resource Council ""As the beef industry's oldest and largest national marketing and trade association, the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) wishes to express support for Congressman Bruce Westerman as an outstanding candidate to lead the House Committee on Natural Resources. As the only professionally-trained forester in the House of Representatives, Congressman Westerman's leadership on forest health has engendered trust in cattle producers across the country, particularly in the West where the risk of catastrophic wildfire are always top of mind. We are confident Congressman Westerman will provide strong leadership of this committee for cattle producers throughout the United States."" – Ethan Lane, Vice President of Government Affairs, National Cattleman's Beef Association ""As the United States struggles after another historic wildfire year, it's time for leadership that understands the need to drastically change the direction of our forest management. Bruce Westerman has the vision and knowledge needed for our National Forests and other public lands at this critical time. As a professional forester and a passionate outdoorsman, Bruce understands the value of management of natural resources in ways few other members of Congress do. We strongly endorse him for the top spot on the House Natural Resources Committee."" – Chuck Roady, President, Federal Forest Resource Coalition ""On behalf of the recreational boating industry, I write to express our strong support for Representative Bruce Westerman to be the next Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee. Rep. Westerman recognizes the significant economic and conservation benefits that recreational boating provides to communities across the country, and the congressman has been a valuable partner to the outdoor recreation community prior to and during his time in Congress."" – T. Nicole Vasilaros, Senior Vice President, National Marine Manufacturers Association ""Congratulations to Representative Westerman for this well-earned honor. Great for Arkansas!"" – Arkansas Farm Bureau ""The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) is proud to endorse Rep. Westerman to become the lead Republican on the House Natural Resources Committee. As an avid sportsman, Rep. Westerman knows firsthand the economic, social and conservation benefits that outdoor recreation activities like recreational fishing provide to the nation. He understands that conservation policies should be science-based and allow for wise and sustainable use of our natural resources. We believe that Rep. Westerman is the right choice to lead this Committee because of his deep understanding of the most pressing issues facing our nation's natural resources, and because he is principled, well-respected and able to getting things done."" – Glenn Hughes, President, American Sportfishing Association ""On behalf of the millions of Americans who enjoy marine recreational fishing and boating, I write to express our ardent support for Congressman Bruce Westerman to be the next Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources. It is imperative we have a strong leader in conservation and supporter of outdoor recreation as the Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee. Congressman Westerman is that leader."" – Jefferson Angers, President, Center for Sportfishing Policy ""Congratulations to Representative Westerman on being named ranking member of the Natural Resources Committee. We look forward to working with you and the rest of the members on fighting for sportsmen and women and promoting conservation across the country."" – Safari Club International ""Western Energy Alliance is proud to support Congressman Westerman for Natural Resources Committee leadership, as we have worked with him for several years on the committee and with the Congressional Western Caucus. We very much appreciate his support for responsible oil and natural gas development on public lands; he understands what it takes to manage forests and other public lands effectively to maintain the balance between resources and environmental protection. We're excited at the prospect of committee leadership with direct expertise and academic credentials in natural resources and forestry."" – Kathleen Sgamma, President, Western Energy Alliance ""Since being elected to represent Arkansas' fourth Congressional district, Bruce has consistently proven himself a leader within the House Committee on Natural Resources. As a member of the Board of Directors of the National Park Foundation, as well as the American Battlefield Trust and a number of other groups related to historic preservation, I sincerely appreciate his commitment and leadership to the recently enacted Great American Outdoors Act. I look forward to continuing to work with him on our shared priorities during the 117th Congress, and wholeheartedly endorse him as the next top Republican of the House Committee on Natural Resources."" – John L. Nau III, President and CEO, Silver Eagle Distributors L.P. ""Congratulations to Congressman Westerman for being chosen to lead his peers on the Natural Resources Committee. His forestry background and knowledge of unique public lands issues has always been a great benefit to livestock producers who rely on sound land management policy. He knows that ranchers and farmers are good stewards of our nation's resources and he knows how important it is that these farmers and ranchers are involved in the policy-making process. We are thrilled to continue working with him as he steps into this new leadership role."" – Kaitlynn Glover, Executive Director, Public Lands Council ""AWC extends its congratulations to Representative Westerman for his victory as the new Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee. As the sole forester in the House, his leadership makes him the right person to lead the committee in the coming years."" – American Wood Council ""Congratulations to my good friend Bruce Westerman on being named the Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member! Arkansas and the entire country will benefit from his forestry expertise and wisdom."" – Tim Griffin, Arkansas Lieutenant Governor",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/putting-conservatives-back-conservation,Putting Conservatives Back Into Conservation,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,,,legacy,"I'm so pleased to let you know that on December 3, my Republican colleagues in the House of Representatives selected me as the next Ranking Member of the Committee on Natural Resources. All my life, I've been passionate about natural resources. From learning to hunt and fish as a child, to using my engineering skills to design natural resources manufacturing facilities, to serving as the only licensed forester in Congress, to working on the Natural Resources Committee my whole tenure, I believe my life experience has uniquely equipped me for this role. These are issues that are deeply personal to me and affect every American, no matter where you live. I'm incredibly honored and humbled at the prospect of stepping into the lead Republican role on the committee. Conservatives have a rich history of leading in conservation, and this committee is a battleground for energy and environmental issues. I believe Arkansas will continue to be a great example for natural resources issues, showing the world how we can have a strong economy and a healthy environment at the same time. I can't wait to get started.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404265,Womack Statement on House Democrat Marijuana Bill,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Steve Womack,W000809,womack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Womack Statement on House Democrat Marijuana Bill f t # e Washington, December 4, 2020 Washington, DCDecember 4, 2020....Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the below statement after voting against H.R. 3884, House Democrat legislation that legalizes marijuana. Womack voted against the bill, which does nothing to address the current health and economic issues faced by families and businesses during the ongoing pandemic: Speaker Pelosi and her shrinking Democrat majority ignored the plight of the American people dealing with the impact of COVID-19. Instead, they used the time to promote the legalization of cannabis among other issues not of any pressing urgency. It's as if they're tone-deaf. Americans are hurting. Jobs are being lost. Families are struggling. And their priority is marijuana? The people deserve better. Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas's Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. womack.house.gov ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-joins-bipartisan-bicameral-call-for-permanent-expansion-of-telehealth-coverage-in-end-of-year-legislation,Boozman Pushes for Permanent Expansion of Telehealth Coverage in End of Year Legislation,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined with 48 other lawmakers, from both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives, to call for the expansion of access to telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic to be made permanent. In a bipartisan letter addressed to Senate and House leadership, the lawmakers called for continuing the authorities that have allowed Medicare beneficiaries to utilize telehealth services, as well as more types of health care providers to provide telehealth during the pandemic. These authorities were included in previous COVID-19 legislation but will expire unless congressional leaders act to make those measures permanent. Telehealth has been a critical tool during the COVID-19 pandemic in ensuring that patients can continue to receive the health care services that they need while minimizing the spread of the virus and keeping health care providers and patients healthy and safe,the lawmakers wrote in their letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA).We continue to hear from our constituents and health care providers that the uncertainty about the long-term future of Medicare telehealth coverage is a barrier to organizations investing fully in telehealth.Congress needs to act now to better serve patients and health care providers during the pandemic, and to ensure that telehealth remains an option after the pandemic is over. The letter highlights the growing use and benefits of telehealth during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, as patients seek to avoid traveling to hospitals and other providers and instead receive care at home. New data shows that the number of Medicare beneficiaries using telehealth services increased by nearly 13,000 percent in just a month and a half during the pandemic. The letter was led by Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI). Along with Boozman, it was also signed by Sens. Roger Wicker (R-MS), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tim Scott (R-SC), Angus King (I-ME), Rand Paul (R-KY), Susan Collins (R-ME), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Lisa Murkowski (R-AL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Steve Daines (R-MT) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). The House members who signed the letter were Reps. Mike Thompson (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Bill Johnson (R-OH), David Schweikert (R-AZ), David McKinley (R-WV), Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), David Cicilline (D-RI), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Michael Guest (R-MS), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), Tom O'Halleran (D-AZ), Tom Cole (R-OK), Trent Kelly (R-MS), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) and Ron Kind (D-WI). The full text of the letter can be found below. Dear Majority Leader McConnell, Minority Leader Schumer, Speaker Pelosi, and Minority Leader McCarthy: As we near the end of the year and the 116th Congress, we urge you to include provisions in end of the year legislation to make permanent expanded coverage of Medicare telehealth services. Specifically, immediate action to permanently waive geographic restrictions for originating sites, authorize health centers in rural and underserved areas to provide telehealth, and allow beneficiaries to use telehealth in their homes would be key steps to ensure much-needed certainty about Medicare telehealth coverage for health care providers and to improve access to care for patients. Telehealth has been a critical tool during the COVID-19 pandemic in ensuring that patients can continue to receive the health care services that they need while minimizing the spread of the virus and keeping health care providers and patients healthy and safe. Telehealth is also important in increasing capacity at health care facilities and reducing health care providers' use of scarce personal protective equipment. For these reasons, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidance at the beginning of the pandemic advising individuals and health care providers to optimize the use of telehealth services. The Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020 and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act included provisions from our bipartisan CONNECT for Health Act to increase access to telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, waivers of statutory geographic and originating site restrictions have allowed Medicare beneficiaries to use telehealth services in all areas of the country, as well as in their homes. In addition, more types of health care providers including health centers in rural and underserved areas, are authorized to provide distant site telehealth services, among other important flexibilities. This new authority resulted in a rapid increase in telehealth utilization. An early analysis of the expansion of Medicare telehealth coverage during the pandemic shows that before the public health emergency, about 13,000 beneficiaries in fee-for-service Medicare received telehealth services in a week, but by the last week of April, nearly 1.7 million beneficiaries received telehealth services. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) also found that beneficiaries are getting care through telehealth at similar rates across demographics. In response to these findings, CMS stated that, The rapid adoption of telemedicine among providers and patients has shown that telehealth is here to stay. However, the authority for this expanded coverage of Medicare telehealth services is temporary and tied to the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration, which is renewed in three-month increments. We continue to hear from our constituents and health care providers that the uncertainty about the long-term future of Medicare telehealth coverage is a barrier to organizations investing fully in telehealtheven now during the pandemic. Ramping up telehealth requires significant costsincluding the purchase of equipment such as tablets and webcams, telehealth platforms, additional staff, provider training, and changes to electronic health records, billing, and patient engagement processes. Without more certainty about the future of Medicare coverage, many organizations are not investing in all of these areas to optimize the use and availability of telehealth. Therefore, Congress needs to act now to better serve patients and health care providers during the pandemic, and to ensure that telehealth remains an option after the pandemic is over. We understand that further data analysis is underway to assess the impact of the telehealth changes that have been available during the public health emergency. However, to fully benefit from telehealth during the pandemic, there are steps Congress should take before the end of the year to expand access to telehealth with appropriate guardrails and beneficiary protections. In particular, Congress should immediately provide permanent authority to waive or remove the geographic restrictions on originating sites in section 1834(m) of the Social Security Act so that a beneficiary's ability to receive telehealth services is no longer based on where he or she lives. Services that CMS has determined to be clinically appropriate to be delivered through telehealth should be available to all beneficiaries, not just some. CMS concurs, stating that The data have shown that telehealth can be an important source of care across the country, not just for those living in rural areas. We also urge action to permanently authorize Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics to provide distant site telehealth services and to allow patients to receive clinically appropriate telehealth services in their homes. These actions would address the restrictions on originating sites that CMS has stated are the greatest barriers to the expansion of Medicare telehealth services as well as ensure that health centers can continue their pivotal role in providing health care in rural and underserved areas. Telehealth is an area of strong bipartisan support, and Congress can, and should, act now to lead the way in ensuring expanded access to telehealth. We appreciate your collaboration on this important issue. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/senator-boozman-visits-hospital-to-discuss-covid-19-vaccine-insurance-and-finances,"KAIT: Senator Boozman visits hospital to discuss COVID-19 vaccine, insurance, and finances",2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Whatever problems the hospital has is intervening on their behalf. The one thing I can do is have people take those phone calls, discuss it, and the good news is the hospital's in the right, Boozman said when asked about his plans for the issue. Full story (w/video)https://www.kait8.com/2020/12/04/senator-boozman-visits-hospital-discuss-covid-vaccine-insurance-finances/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-selected-republican-leader-committee-natural-resources,Westerman Selected as Republican Leader for Committee on Natural Resources,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,westerman,https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the Republican Conference ratified the House Republican Steering Committee's ranking member recommendations for the 117th Congress. U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) will be the next Republican leader for the House Committee on Natural Resources. Westerman issued the following statement in response: ""I'm incredibly honored and humbled that my colleagues chose me to be the next lead Republican on the House Natural Resources Committee.All my life, I've been passionate about natural resources. From learning to hunt and fish as a child, to using my engineering skills to design natural resources manufacturing facilities, to serving as the only licensed forester in Congress, to working on the Natural Resources Committee my whole tenure, I believe my life experience has uniquely equipped me for the role of ranking member. Conservatives have a rich history of leading in conservation, and this committee will continue to be a battleground for energy and environmental issues. I believe we can lead the way on showing the world how market-based conservation allows our economy and environment to thrive simultaneously. I can't wait to get started.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/boozman-supports-legislation-to-stop-doxing-of-government-workers,Boozman Supports Legislation to Stop Doxing of Government Workers,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Republican colleagues to introduce thePublic Servant Protection Act, a bill designed to protect government workers, officials and appointees from being targeted at their homes. Specifically, the bill gives all government employees, elected officials, and appointees at all levels (Federal, State, Local, and Tribal) the right to have their home addresses and phone numbersor the home addresses and phone numbers of their immediate family membersremoved from any publicly-displayedwebsite. The bill also makes it a criminal offense to post a government official's (or their immediate family members') home address or phone number with the intent to cause them physical harm. Penalties would include a fine and up to a year in prison or, if injury or death results, up to life in prison. Bill text can be foundhere. The legislation was introduced by Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR). In addition to Boozman, it's cosponsored by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), David Perdue (R-GA), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Rick Scott (R-FL). Anyone who maliciously publishes personal information of government officialsincluding judges and police officersputs innocent lives at risk. Tactics like this have led to tragic outcomes that should have never happened. This bill puts safeguards in place that will help end this trend. Public servants should not have to live in fear of aggressive activists who want to see them harmed,Boozmansaid. No public servant should be endangered or subject to harassment for doing their job. But as activist mobs increasingly target elected officials and police officers, additional protection is warranted. Our bill will help shield government workers and officials by increasing penalties on malicious actors and protecting workers' personal information, saidCotton. Law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judges already serve the public at tremendous risk. They should not be forced to live with the added fear of having their personal home information widely available on the internet for use by violent criminals. Empowering these officials to keep their personal information private will help protect our protectors and their families,"" saidBlackburn. Now more than ever, the law enforcement community needs our support,saidPerdue. The Defund the Police' movement pushed by radical Democrats has led to an alarming increase in attacks on police officers, and their families. Nopublic servantshould ever be targeted for doing his or her job. I will always stand with our law enforcement officers as they work to keep our communities safe. Law enforcement, government officials and prosecutors have dedicated their lives to serving our communities,saidLoeffler.Unfortunately, fueled by today's Left wing aggressive cancel culture agenda, their service and livelihoods are under attack. As a strong supporter of our men and women who swear an oath to protect and serve, I'm proud to join my colleagues in this effort to prevent dedicated government officials at all levels from being targeted or attacked for doing their jobs. I'm proud to sponsor the Public Servant Protection Act to protect hardworking public servants and their family members. These individuals dedicate their lives to serving the American people, and it's disgusting that they would have to live in fear of targeted harassment, harm or violence in their own homes, just for doing their jobs, saidScott. Background: In July 2020, U.S. District Judge Esther Salas wastargetedby a man who came to her home and killed her husband and son when they answered the door. This year, anti-police rhetoric, law enforcement officer deaths, and targeting have also increased. Mobs of activists have even targeted officials at their homes. This bill is designed to protect public servants from the rising number of people and groups that call for harassment and violence against public officials with whom they disagree. This bill is also endorsed by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the Major Cities Chiefs Association, and the National District Attorneys Association.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-announces-resolution-urging-european-union-to-protect-children-from-online-sexual-exploitation,Cotton Announces Resolution Urging European Union to Protect Children from Online Sexual Exploitation,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 3, 2020 Cotton Announces Resolution Urging European Union to Protect Children from Online Sexual Exploitation Washington, D.C. – Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today announced he will introduce a resolution urging the European Union to amend its ePrivacy Directive to assure tech companies may continue to use technology that identifies and combats child exploitation online. In its current form, the ePrivacy Directive outlaws critical tools used to combat the sexual exploitation of children. “A world that turns a blind eye to child sexual exploitation has lost its way. This Directive, as written, will allow undetected proliferation of online child exploitation at alarming rates. But the EU can still fix it. My resolution will urge the European Parliament to pass critical changes that prioritize our children’s safety. Closing our eyes to child exploitation doesn’t mean it stops—we must fight this evil together,” said Cotton. Background: Several tech companies voluntarily use certain technologies—including hashing, PhotoDNA, and anti-grooming tools—to detect child sexual abuse material and grooming behavior on their platforms. These technologies identify millions of instances of child exploitation online, which are then reported to the CyberTipline, a global hotline for online child exploitation operated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. In 2019 alone, the CyberTipline received reports of 69 million images, videos, and files related to child sexual abuse, and more than 3 million of these images and videos originated from offenders in the EU. The ePrivacy Directive, set to take effect just before Christmas, would make it illegal for tech companies to use this technology in the EU. In its current form, this Directive threatens our ability to protect children from online exploitation—not just in the EU, but globally. The European Commission recently noted that the EU “has become the largest host of child sexual abuse material globally.” If this problem goes unaddressed, internet predators in the EU will abuse children all over the world, including freely trading illegal images of American children without consequences. It is unclear whether tech companies will continue to use these technologies in other countries if forced to exclude users in the EU, a devastating blow to child safety everywhere. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-stop-doxing-of-government-workers,"Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Stop “Doxing” of Government Workers",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 3, 2020 Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Stop “Doxing” of Government Workers Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), along with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Kelly Loeffler (R-Georgia), David Perdue (R-Georgia), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), and Rick Scott (R-Florida) introduced the Public Servant Protection Act, a bill designed to protect government workers, officials, and appointees from being targeted at their homes. Specifically, the bill gives all government employees, elected officials, and appointees at all levels (Federal, State, Local, and Tribal) the right to have their home addresses and phone numbers—or the home addresses and phone numbers of their immediate family members—removed from any publicly-displayed website. The bill also makes it a criminal offense to post a government official's (or their immediate family members’) home address or phone number with the intent to cause them physical harm. Penalties would include a fine and up to a year in prison or, if injury or death results, up to life in prison. Bill text may be found here. “No public servant should be endangered or subject to harassment for doing their job. But as activist mobs increasingly target elected officials and police officers, additional protection is warranted. Our bill will help shield government workers and officials by increasing penalties on malicious actors and protecting workers’ personal information,” said Cotton. “Law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judges already serve the public at tremendous risk. They should not be forced to live with the added fear of having their personal home information widely available on the internet for use by violent criminals. Empowering these officials to keep their personal information private will help protect our protectors and their families,"" said Blackburn. “Now more than ever, the law enforcement community needs our support,” said Perdue. “The ‘Defund the Police’ movement pushed by radical Democrats has led to an alarming increase in attacks on police officers, and their families. No public servant should ever be targeted for doing his or her job. I will always stand with our law enforcement officers as they work to keep our communities safe.” “Law enforcement, government officials and prosecutors have dedicated their lives to serving our communities,” said Loeffler. “Unfortunately, fueled by today’s Left wing aggressive cancel culture agenda, their service and livelihoods are under attack. As a strong supporter of our men and women who swear an oath to protect and serve, I’m proud to join my colleagues in this effort to prevent dedicated law enforcement officers and government officials at all levels from being targeted for doing their jobs.” “Anyone who maliciously publishes personal information of government officials—including judges and police officers—puts innocent lives at risk. Tactics like this have led to tragic outcomes that should have never happened. This bill puts safeguards in place that will help end this trend. Public servants should not have to live in fear of aggressive activists who want to see them harmed,” Boozman said. “I’m proud to sponsor the Public Servant Protection Act to protect hardworking public servants and their family members. These individuals dedicate their lives to serving the American people, and it’s disgusting that they would have to live in fear of targeted harassment, harm or violence in their own homes, just for doing their jobs,” said Scott. Background: In July 2020, U.S. District Judge Esther Salas was targeted by a man who came to her home and killed her husband and son when they answered the door. This year, anti-police rhetoric, law enforcement officer deaths, and targeting have also increased. Mobs of activists have even targeted officials at their homes. This bill is designed to protect public servants from the rising number of people and groups that call for harassment and violence against public officials with whom they disagree. This bill is also endorsed by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the Major Cities Chiefs Association, and the National District Attorneys Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-approves-cotton-whitehouse-als-disability-insurance-access-act-,Senate Approves Cotton-Whitehouse ALS Disability Insurance Access Act,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 December 2, 2020 Senate Approves Cotton-Whitehouse ALS Disability Insurance Access Act Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators and Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) applauded Senate passage of the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act, their bipartisan legislation to eliminate the five-month waiting period before ALS patients can receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. The legislation would build on previous steps by Congress and the Social Security Administration to accommodate the difficult prognosis for those diagnosed with ALS. Whitehouse and Cotton first introduced the ALS Disability Insurance Act in 2016. The legislation awaits approval in the House, where it is sponsored by Congressmen Seth Moulton (D-MA) and Peter King (R-NY). “Americans suffering from ALS shouldn’t have to wait for assistance, especially given their tragically short life expectancy—and now they won’t have to,” said Cotton. “By waiving the statutory disability benefits waiting period, our bill makes support available to those suffering from this terrible disease much faster. I’m grateful to my Senate colleagues for supporting this important legislation, and I strongly urge the House to do the same.” “Allowing Americans who face this difficult diagnosis to immediately receive the benefits they have earned is a simple act of humanity that will make life easier for ALS patients and their families,” said Whitehouse. “I hope the House will act quickly so we can finally eliminate this bureaucratic obstacle.” “ALS is a cruel disease that progresses fast, currently without a cure. Help can’t come soon enough once someone is diagnosed and this bill recognizes that. It takes courage to be a true champion for patients and we are grateful to Senators Whitehouse and Cotton for introducing this legislation,” I AM ALS CEO Danielle Carnival said. “To the thousands of advocates who drove this bill forward, you are our hope. You are changing history one step at a time. This passage in the Senate is in celebration of your efforts.” “The ALS Association and ALS community urges the House to immediately pass the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act, which just passed the Senate,” said Calaneet Balas, President and CEO of The ALS Association. “The legislation would make SSDI benefits accessible to people with ALS right away. Our community has worked tirelessly with congressional champions over the years laying the groundwork for this bill, educating lawmakers and the public about the rapid progression of ALS and the long delays in diagnosis. Over the course of a five-month waiting period, many people living with ALS will experience serious loss of ability and will have incurred significant expenses for care and treatment. They urgently need support.” Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a neurodegenerative disease affecting the ability of the brain to control muscle movements. Individuals with ALS progressively lose the ability to speak, walk, and breathe. The intended purpose of a five-month waiting period is to allow temporary conditions to reverse. However, there is currently no cure or treatment to halt or undo the effects of ALS, and some ALS patients lose their fight with the disease before ever receiving benefits. The ALS Disability Insurance Access Act would help alleviate some of the financial hardship that accompanies an ALS diagnosis, and support those living with ALS and their families.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8102,Congressional Oversight Commission Publishes Seventh Report,2020-12-01,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressional Oversight Commission Publishes Seventh Report f t # e Washington, December 1, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C. The members of the bipartisan Congressional Oversight Commission have published their seventh report. It is available for review here.The Commission's six previous reports are also available for review at the Congressional Oversight Commission's website. The Congressional Oversight Commission is a five-person panel that was established by the CARES Act. The Commission is focused specifically on the economic stabilization efforts of the Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve. The members of the commission are Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), Congresswoman Donna Shalala (D-Fla.), Congressman French Hill (R-Ark.), and Bharat Ramamurti. The Commission's chairperson has not been appointed yet. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8078,Hill Statement on Janet Yellen’s Nomination to Serve as Secretary of the Treasury Department,2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Little Rock, Ark. Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) issued the following statement about former Federal Reserve Chairwoman Janet Yellen's nomination to lead the Treasury Department by Vice President Joe Biden:By way of public policy leadership and experience, Janet Yellen is well qualified to be nominated as Treasury Secretary. In her final two years as Federal Reserve chair, I found her forthright and focused. In office, she will confront a global economic crisis brought about by COVID-19. If confirmed, she must be a voice for policies that ensure that the American economy continues its return to pre-pandemic strength. Large tax burden increases on hard working taxpayers, businesses, and entrepreneurs will slow the recovery, as will a growing tangle of new Washington mandates and regulations. Her second significant challenge will be the insatiable appetite of those left of center policy makers to demand that only the federal government can solve all social and economic problems by spending ever more taxpayer money. As she must lead on growth, Dr. Yellen must also lead the administration's return to responsible post-pandemic federal budgets. Finally, as a former chair of the Federal Reserve, hers can be a voice of constraint from the calls for the Fed to abandon its focused dual mandate of price stability and full employment, and instead, lend money directly to states and municipalities, become a sort of climate police' or find no limit to the government debt it can acquire.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/11/vaccine-advancements-offer-hope,Vaccine Advancements Offer Hope,2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The holiday season is officially upon us. This year, however, it feels uniquely different as we remain in the midst of a deadly pandemic that is showing no sign of slowing down. Despite that reality, there is reason for optimism. We have learned a great deal about COVID-19 over the past several months. Weunderstand more about how the virus istransmitted, the effects it has on the human body and the ways in which therapeutic treatments can aid recovery. We also know how we can protect ourselves, and others, from contracting it. That means following the three w'swearing a mask in public settings, washinghands and watchingourdistanceto help stem the spread.If we heed and act upon the advice of our medical experts, we can make a safer environment forour neighborsand our loved ones as we celebrate the holidays. While the concern for increased transmission is understandably high as we enter the cold weather season, there is promising news on the horizon. Multiple COVID-19 vaccines are in the final stagesof clinical development and may soon be available. Pharmaceutical maker Pfizer recently announced that preliminary data from late-stage clinical trials show its COVID-19 vaccineis95 percent effective.A vaccine developed jointly by the drug companyModernaandthe National Institutes of Health has shown in early trials to be more than 94 percent effective. A third company, AstraZeneca,alsoreportedthat late-stagetrials showed its coronavirus vaccine was up to 90 percent effective.Its breakthrough is a big developmentthatwould be less expensive and easier to distribute than others that require cold storage. Researchers continue to explore additional options. Some of that work is being done right here in Arkansas. Woodland International Research Group located in Little Rock is among the research firms coordinating clinical trials for potential vaccines. The incredible medical advancements we are witnessingwill help save lives around the world.These accomplishments are a testament to American ingenuity, resolve and our propensity to meet a challenge head-on. We would not be in this position so quickly without the work of incredibly intelligent researchers, the courageous commitment of trial participants and a historic public-private partnership to get this heavy lift off the ground. Operation Warp Speed brought all this together. Itis hard to say how far along we'd be in the process without the program'smultibillion-dollarinvestment in research and development. Similarly, moving at this rapid pace would have been impossible withoutthe federal government'scommitment to pre-purchase a future vaccine and streamline regulatory authorization. While we await the final approval for these vaccines, it is important to know that distribution planning has already been underway. Military planners are working with officials from the Centers for Disease Controland Prevention to ensure that states have a plan in place to efficiently administer the vaccines on a mass scale, adequate personnel to carryoutdeliveryand the data tracking infrastructure necessary for a successful program. Operation Warp Speed continues to play a key role here as well, procuring the necessary suppliessuch as needles and swabsto ensure smooth distribution. 2020 has been an incredibly difficult year. As we celebratethe holidays, let'senjoy theseasonwithout becoming complacent. COVID-19 is still very much with us, but advancements on the vaccine front offer a brighter future.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/honoring-hometown-hero,Honoring a Hometown Hero,2020-11-27,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,,,legacy,"One of the things I love most about serving in public office is the ability to honor incredible heroes who live and work in our communities. Just a few weeks ago, I learned that one of these people, Mr. Fred Randle, was a long-time Hot Springs resident who was part of Merrill's Marauders during WWII. Merrill's Marauders were U.S. soldiers who fought in the Pacific Theater, using jungle warfare techniques to penetrate deep behind enemy lines. In just five months of combat, the Marauders had advanced 720 miles through some of the harshest jungle terrain in the world. Upon return, each man in the unit was awarded a Bronze Star. Earlier this year, I supported the Merrill's Marauders Congressional Gold Medal Act, which would give each living Marauder a gold medal in the Smithsonian. President Trump signed the bill into law in October, but at the time I didn't realize that one of these men was still living in Arkansas. Through the efforts of a liaison officer, Mr. Randle was found and added to the list of only nine living Merrill's Marauders in the United States. He had written a book, Hell on Land, Disaster at Sea - the Story of Merrill's Marauders and the Sinking of the Rhona. Mr. Randle witnessed the sinking of this ship in 1943, and was one of a handful of men with the Marauders who had been sworn to secrecy about the sinking for 57 years since it was caused by the world's first guided missile. Mr. Randle passed away at the age of 97 on Nov. 23, 2020, but before he did, we were able to contact him and his family and let them know about the Congressional Gold Medal that will be placed in the Smithsonian. In the words of his family, He loved the Lord and the United States flag. In this season of thanksgiving, I'm grateful for our heroes who fight and have fought to defend our freedom. We will never forget.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/11/boozman-encourages-support-for-local-retailers,Boozman Encourages Support for Local Retailers,2020-11-27,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) released the following statement encouraging Arkansans to support small businesses in their communities Saturday, November 28 as part of Small Business Saturday: Many small businesses continue to experience hardships as a result of COVID-19. Their success depends upon customers willing to support them. We can help make their holidays brighter by boosting sales for our local, independently-owned businesses. Small Business Saturday is a great time to show our appreciation for the entrepreneurs in Arkansas, Boozman said. In 2019, shoppers spent a record high $19.6 billion at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/11/25/2020/cotton-statement-on-thanksgiving,Cotton Statement on Thanksgiving,2020-11-25,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact:Caroline TablerorJames Arnold(202) 734-0430 November 25, 2020 Cotton Statement on Thanksgiving Washington, D.C.—Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the following statement on Thanksgiving: “This Thanksgiving, we owe a special debt of gratitude to our Pilgrim Fathers, who endured great hardships to come to America 400 years ago in order to freely practice their faith. May we give thanks for the abundant blessings we’ve received from God, including the privilege of living in a great and free land. On behalf of the Cotton family, I extend my best wishes to every American in the hope they will enjoy a Thanksgiving as happy and peaceful as the First Thanksgiving.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8101,Hill Statement on COVID-19 Emergency Lending Funds,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill Statement on COVID-19 Emergency Lending Funds f t # e Little Rock, November 24, 2020 Little Rock, Ark. Rep. French Hill (AR-02) issued the following statement about Secretary Mnuchin's proposed idea that small businesses receive direct support from the Treasury Department:I applaud the Federal Reserve's quick response in providing emergency market liquidity in March; and their collaboration with the U.S. Treasury to structure the facilities authorized under section 13(3) of the Federal Reserve Act that served as a critical backstop for our financial markets, local governments and businesses up and down Main Street. Over the last eight difficult months, our country has adapted and learned to cope with COVID-19 at home, at school and in operating our businesses in the midst of a global pandemic. The current economic rebound and the resilient capital markets are evidence of that. The additional 13(3) facilities set up as a result of the CARES Act funding operated as they were designed. As those facilities wind down and the funding is potentially reallocated by Congress to support targeted needs, I am certain that existing core exchange stabilization funds (ESF) are available to provide market liquidity. Congress stands ready to act on additional ESF funding and authority for the Treasury as economic conditions warrant. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/11/supporting-nutrition-needs-of-arkansas-students,Supporting Nutrition Needs of Arkansas Students,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"COVID-19 has exposed a number of issues that policymakers are recognizing can no longer wait to be addressedcombating hunger is chief among them. We've seen how schools had to quickly adapt to continue providing meals while students were learning virtually. U.S. Senator John Boozman, a senior memberof theSenateAgriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committeerecently spent some time with school administrators and the dedicated individuals who make healthy school lunches across Arkansas to thank them for their efforts in the fight against hunger. We are grateful for their commitment to ensure that no child goes hungry during these challenging times.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8069,French Hill Op-Ed: Dems Should Work With GOP to Expand Apprenticeship,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"French Hill Op-Ed: Dems Should Work With GOP to Expand Apprenticeship f t # e Washington, November 23, 2020 French Hill Op-Ed: Dems Should Work With GOP to Expand Apprenticeship 11/23/2020 RealClear MarketsThere are millions of jobs in the United States that remain unfilled because employers struggle to find applicants with the skills required for certain positions. Apprenticeships and other forms of work-based learning are tailored to help shrink the jobs gap in the U.S. because they offer American workers the opportunity to succeed without being tied to large sums of student debt. [Read Full Article] f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404262,Womack Urges NPRC to Resume Processing Military Personnel,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Steve Womack,W000809,womack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DCNovember 23, 2020....Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today joined Rep. Van Taylor (R-TX-3), Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20), and a bipartisan group of more than 230 members in sending a letter urging the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) to implement new policies so that they may resume processing military personnel, health, and medical records requests and address the growing backlog of requests due to the closure of the facility amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The letter also underscores that all agency policy changes should continue to consider the health and safety of NPRC's workforce. In part, the members stated, We write to voice our growing concern with the rising number of unprocessed requests for military personnel, health, and medical records from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) amidst the current pandemic. Except for a limited number of emergency requests, since March of this year, our constituents' requests for military personnel records from NPRC have largely been unfulfilled. Moreover, there remains no definitive timeline in which our constituent veterans can expect to have their requests processed. As you know, personnel records are needed for veterans and their dependents to qualify for a range of benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, NPRC reduced on-site operations on March 23, 2020, only processing emergency requests. Since that time, the facility has remained in this operational status with no definitive timeline for addressing the backlog or improving processing times. These personnel records are needed for veterans, military members, and their dependents to qualify for a range of benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. The bipartisan letter was signed by 233 Members of Congress, including 111 Republicans and 122 Democrats. The full text of the letter can be found below or here: Director Scott Levins National Personnel Records Center National Archives and Records Administration 1 Archives Drive Saint Louis, Missouri 63138 Director Levins, We write to voice our growing concern with the rising number of unprocessed requests for military personnel, health, and medical records from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) amidst the current pandemic. Except for a limited number of emergency requests, since March of this year, our constituents' requests for military personnel records from NPRC have largely been unfulfilled. Moreover, there remains no definitive timeline in which our constituent veterans can expect to have their requests processed. As you know, personnel records are needed for veterans and their dependents to qualify for a range of benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a significant challenge for all Americans and the Federal agencies who serve them, and efforts to protect workforce health and safety are absolutely of top importance. However, as more time continues to elapse, these delays are causing significant anxiety and hardship for many of our nation's veterans. It's for that reason we write to strongly encourage you to work to implement new policies and procedures that can both protect the NPRC's workforce and ensure our nation's veterans are getting the records they need and deserve in a timely fashion. We also ask that you provide our offices with a working plan including a timeline for how your agency intends to address the growing backlog of military personnel records requests. As many of our constituents have already been waiting for months to obtain their records, providing a plan and a timeline would offer a needed level of certainty in these difficult and uncertain times. The NPRC serves as an important cornerstone in our nation's system to provide and care for veterans, but without your agency's needed services many of those who have worn the uniform are experiencing significant claims processing delays. We ask for your committed leadership to overcome these challenges and to assist in providing veterans with the records needed to pursue their earned benefits. As Members of Congress, we stand ready to assist in these efforts. Sincerely, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas's Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. womack.house.gov ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/11/giving-thanks-for-arkansas-adoption-advocates,Giving Thanks for Arkansas Adoption Advocates,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Danny and Dawn Curtis always wanted a large family. They already had two sons when they saw a photo album of Arkansas children in foster care waiting to be adopted. They fell in love with the picture of a young girl and learned that she had three brothers. After much discussion and prayer, they adopted the sibling group and turned their family of four into a family of eight. The Curtis family eventually adopted a total of 10 children and became valuable advocates for foster children in Arkansas, through their professional lives and personal example. I was privileged to visit with Dawn recently and congratulate her as she and her late husbandwere honored by the Congressional Adoption Coalition as 2020 Angels in Adoption. Fortunately, other families are also demonstrating their commitment to change the lives of children through adoption. Thousands of families make room in their homes and their hearts each year. It is inspiring to see the love and commitment Arkansas families and organizations have to helping children in need. As willing families work with government agencies, courts and non-profit organizations throughout the state, you can see their common purpose to give every child the best life possible. As a member of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption,I am pleased, once again, to support a U.S. Senate resolution recognizing November as National Adoption Month and November 21, 2020 as National Adoption Day. There are approximately 424,000 children in the foster care system in the U.S. and half of them are waiting for adoption. The average foster child spends 20 months in that system and 65 percent of them are 10 years old or younger. This year, the COVID-19 health crisis has created even more challenges for the foster care system, prospective adoptive parents and the children who are praying for a permanent home. There has been a lot of discussion in recent years about the high number of Arkansas children in foster care. I am heartened to see the dedicated response to this crisis from organizations like The CALL and Project Zero that help place children in loving homes, to facilities like the Young Children's Home where they provide a family atmosphere for many children so they are not forced to move far away or be separated from their siblings while in foster care. Weare blessed to have the advocacy in our state that is making a positive impact on the lives of young Arkansans.As we give thanks for our friends and family this year, let us remember to count our blessings and keep children who are seeking the opportunity to be surrounded by loved ones at Thanksgiving in our hearts.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1451,Cotton Statement on Passing of Joe Morgan,2020-11-22,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 22, 2020 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact:Caroline TablerorJames Arnold(202) 734-0430 November 22, 2020 Cotton Statement on Passing of Joe Morgan Washington, D.C.Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the statement below after Joe Morgan, a prominent member of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, died on Saturday. Joe Morgan was a fierce advocate for his friends and Arkansas's outdoor heritage. We will miss him, and I hope that God will bring comfort to his family. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-statement-on-passing-of-joe-morgan,Cotton Statement on Passing of Joe Morgan,2020-11-22,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 November 22, 2020 Cotton Statement on Passing of Joe Morgan Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the statement below after Joe Morgan, a prominent member of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, died on Saturday. “Joe Morgan was a fierce advocate for his friends and Arkansas’s outdoor heritage. We will miss him, and I hope that God will bring comfort to his family.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8051,"ICYMI: Rep. Hill Op-Ed in Washington Examiner: Democrats should work with, not against, Republicans to expand apprenticeship programs",2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Ahead of the vote regarding H.R. 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) spoke out in theWashington Examiner, highlighting in an op-ed how the legislation fails to include House Republicans' push for employer-driven innovation and new models for apprenticeship programs.The full op-ed is copied below. Democrats should work with, not against, Republicans to expand apprenticeship programs Washington Examiner By: Congressman French Hill November 20, 2020There are millions of jobs in the United States that remain unfilled because employers struggle to find applicants with the skills required for certain positions. Apprenticeships and other forms of work-based learning are tailored to help shrink the jobs gap in the U.S. because they offer American workers the opportunity to succeed without being tied to large sums of student debt. As a former community banker and former chairman of the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce, I understand that business owners and entrepreneurs know best what skills their employees need to excel in the workplace. Five years ago, I started the bipartisan Congressional Skilled American Workforce Caucus with Rep. Brenda Lawrence of Detroit to promote increased skilled workforce training. Rather than modernizing the apprenticeship system, House Democrats rejected an offer from Republicans that would embrace employer-led innovation and new models for apprenticeship programs. As written, the National Apprenticeship Act closes pathways for students and job seekers by making the existing apprenticeship system, which was created during the Great Depression, the only option. In Fiscal Year 2019, 252,000 individuals entered apprenticeships, and only 81,000 graduated from the registered system. Clearly, there is room to improve the existing system, make space for employer-led innovation, and get more Americans back to work. During committee consideration of this bill, Republicans proposed a substitute amendment that would empower job creators through flexibility. Using the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act framework, Republicans have embraced new models that would promote employer-driven innovation and new, dynamic apprenticeship programs, rather than perpetuating the flaws and rigidity of the current system. By choosing to reject extending federal funding to Industry Recognized-Apprenticeship Programs, House Democrats have curbed the momentum of bipartisan reform efforts. In doing so, liberal and progressive lawmakers have impeded the ability of the Department of Labor to provide more Americans access to quality apprenticeship opportunities. In its present form, the National Apprenticeship Act burdens job creators with overly prescriptive requirements and time-consuming paperwork. The restrictive nature of the Democrats' bill discourages new and small businesses from participating in the registered apprenticeship program and in general, puts job-generating programs in jeopardy. Congress should encourage innovation in the apprenticeship space instead of doubling down on a flawed approach for businesses and job seekers. COVID-19 has presented significant challenges for employers and left millions of Americans still without employment. We must seek solutions that get Americans back to work and revitalize our struggling industries. To accomplish this, we must cut, not add, the bureaucratic red tape that currently inhibits both sides of the employment process. We cannot allow partisan differences to limit job creation opportunities for our employers and workers especially during this health and economic crisis. Republicans object to the bill under consideration, but we agree on the underlying need to provide jobs for our citizens. Speaker Nancy Pelosi had the opportunity to create a modernized, bipartisan piece of legislation that reworks an important program to meet the needs of current and future Americans, but instead, the bill that we will consider today is more of the same. As members of Congress, our duty is to help hardworking families across our nation, and we must not lose sight of that focus. While the registered apprenticeship system has traditionally played a major role in our national workforce development system, it remains inadequate. Instead of trying to reform the system, we must reimagine the apprenticeship model with a focus on innovation and flexibility. This will get more Americans back to work and provide our people with promising employment opportunities for years to come. My Republican colleagues and I will continue to work towards this goal and renew the American dream.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8055,Hill Votes Against Limits on Job Opportunities for Arkansans,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hill Votes Against Limits on Job Opportunities for Arkansans f t # e Washington, November 20, 2020 WASHINGTON D.C.Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) joined his Republican colleagues in voting againstH.R. 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020. While this legislation would expand the national apprenticeship system to include apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships, and pre-apprenticeship programs registered under the National Apprenticeship Act, it fails to include House Republicans' push for employer-driven innovation and new models for apprenticeship programs.In its current form, the National Apprenticeship Act limits job growth by imposing bureaucratic hurdles into the apprenticeship process. While both Democrats and Republicans agree that we need to provide good jobs to the American people, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Democratic Leadership have refused to consider common-sense reforms to the registered apprenticeship program, and this type of partisan showmanship has greatly limited the momentum towards a solution with Arkansas families are paying the price,said Rep. Hill.While this system has historically driven workforce development, it requires modernization with a focus on innovation and flexibility to best serve the current and future needs of our citizens. To address the flaws of the current system, Republicans built on the framework of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and have proposed new, dynamic programs that promote employer-driven innovation. I urge my Democratic colleagues to reconsider their partisan stance and embrace this opportunity to provide lasting benefits to all Americans. Earlier today, theWashington Examinerpublishedan op-ed from Rep. Hilldetailing the flaws in the House Democrats' proposed legislation. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/free-entrance-national-parks-our-veterans,Free Entrance to National Parks for Our Veterans,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,,,legacy,"I am pleased to inform you that starting this Veterans Day on Nov. 11, and lasting indefinitely, the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) has granted military veterans and Gold Star families free access to national parks and wildlife refuges, as well as lands and waters managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. We will never be able to repay servicemen and women for their sacrifice,but this program is a way to thank America's veterans and Gold Star families for their sacrifice for our country and to encourage them to explore the recreational opportunities on our public lands and waters. Arkansas' natural beauty is on full display at our national parks and national forests. Several of these are already free, such as the natural springs in Hot Springs National Park or the bluff-lined Buffalo National River. However, the parks that do charge entrance fees, such as the Fort Smith National Historic Site and Pea Ridge National Military Park, will be more accessible through this program. To receive free entrance to national parks and wildlife refuges, veterans will need to present their Department of Defense ID Card (CAC Card), Veteran Health ID Card (VHIC), Veteran ID Card, or their veteran designation on a driver's license. And Gold Star family members will need to download and print the voucher located on the National Park Service (NPS) website. I encourage you to visit the NPS website at nps.gov to learn more about this program.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404259,Womack Unanimously Re-Elected to Influential House Steering Committee for 117th Congress,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Steve Womack,W000809,womack.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC November 20, 2020.Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the following statement after being unanimously re-elected to serve on the House Republican Steering Committee for the 117th Congress. The Steering Committee recommends members of the U.S. House of Representatives for committee assignments and chairmanships after analyzing a range of factors, including member background, expertise on issues, and level of seniority. This is Womack's fourth term on the Republican Steering Committee, where he represents members from Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Puerto Rico: It's an honor to have the continued support of my colleagues to serve on the House Republican Steering Committee. With many challenges ahead of us during the 117th Congress, it is critical that members are positioned to use their leadership in a way that best serves their districts and the American people. Our conference is united behind fighting for hardworking families and building a stronger nation based on pro-growth principles and I know that representatives from Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Puerto Rico are ready to advance this agenda. I'm committed to ensuring that lawmakers' voices are heard as important committee assignments are decided. Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas's Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. womack.house.gov ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/11/boozman-awarded-for-commitment-to-small-business,Boozman Awarded for Commitment to Small Business,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) was awarded the Guardian of Small Business' award from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation's leading small business association. Boozman received this honor for his outstanding voting record in support of small business owners and employees. Small business owners are facing extraordinary challenges as a result of the COVID-19 economic downturn. I'm proud to support policies that will help provide certainty and economic relief so these job creators can survive and continue to employ Arkansans. I appreciate this recognition and remain committed to advocating for the success of our state's small businesses,Boozman said. This award goes to members of Congress who support small businesses, and Senator Boozmanstands up for small business owners and employees in Arkansas and throughout the country,NFIB Arkansas State Director Sylvester Smith said. NFIB'spolicy positions are driven by its members, and we reportNFIBKey Votes back to our membership,NFIBVice President of Federal Government Relations KevinKuhlmansaid. We are proud to recognize the elected officials like SenatorBoozmanwho earned this distinction in the 116th Congress by taking pro-small business votes supporting financial assistance programs and tax relief and opposing increased labor costs. NFIB State Director Sylvester Smith presented Boozman with the Guardian of Small Business award at McLehaney Equipment Co. LLC in Benton.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8048,"Hill Legislation Honoring Civil Rights Icon, Scipio Jones, Passes Senate",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,AR,French Hill,H001072,hill.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON D.C. Rep. French Hill (AR-02) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the Scipio Jones Post Office Portrait Act, which allows a portrait of civil rights champion Scipio Jones to be displayed in the Little Rock post office bearing his name. ""I am proud to announce that, last night, the Scipio Jones Post Office Portrait Act passed the Senate and is headed to the president's desk to becomelaw. I introduced this bill because it became evident to me that it was going to take a literal act of Congress' to direct that a portrait of one of Arkansas's and the nation's most important civil rights champions to hang in the post office bearing his name. I am proud of this accomplishment on behalf of the people of central Arkansas, and I am grateful to my Arkansas colleagues in the House for their support in attaining unanimous approval of this bill in the House. And; I appreciate the work of Senators Boozman and Cotton for partnering with me to introduce the companion bill in the Senate. I know that generations of Arkansans will enjoy the visual reminder of Scipio Jones' important role in American history."" About Scipio Jones Scipio Africanus Jones, who was born to an enslaved person in 1863, attended Walden Seminary (now Philander Smith College) and then attended Bethel Institute (now Shorter College), earning his bachelor's degree in 1885. In 1889, Jones passed the bar and was admitted to practice before theSupreme Court of Arkansasin 1900 and by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1905. After the horrific massacre of Black Americans in Elaine, Arkansas, in 1919, he defended 12 wrongly-accused Black men who had been charged with murder and condemned by all-white juries. Despite its being described as a ""race riot,"" most of the victims were Black and most of the aggressors were white. With his clients already facing execution, Jones fought their convictions in both state and federal courts. An appeal was filed with the U.S. Supreme Court arguing that the accused had been denied due process of law. After reviewing the case, the Supreme Court agreed and overturned the convictions.Moore v. Dempseychanged the nature of the Fourteenth Amendment's due process clause. The ruling allowed for federal courts to hear and examine evidence in state criminal cases to ensure that the defendants' constitutional rights were protected. It was a landmark ruling that sought to ensure that those accused of a crime had received due process. AboutH.R. 3317, Scipio Jones Post Office Portrait Act In 2007, the House passed legislation to name the post office located at 1700 Main Street in Little Rock, Arkansas, after Jones. Today, a plaque at the post office bears his name, but post office regulations restrict the items that can be placed on display. On June 18, 2019, Rep. Hill introduced legislation to allow a full-sized portrait of Scipio Jones to be on display at the post office in Little Rock which bears his name. Funds for the portrait will be raised privately and no taxpayer money will be spent on the artwork. The legislation passed the House Committee on Oversight and Reform on December 19, 2019, passed the full House on February 5, 2020, and passed the Senate on November 18, 2020.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/11/covid-19-current-visitation-status-of-washington-dc-sites,"UPDATED: Current Visitation Status of Washington, DC Sites",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"When Arkansans visit Washington, D.C., I strive to make their trips enjoyable and memorable. However, due to growing health and safety concerns relative to the evolving COVID-19 coronavirus, it is important to note thatpublic visits and tours of many of the popular sites in Washington have been suspended.Please consult the list below for the current visitation status of sites. If you have additional questions, please call my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-4843. Please read the latest COVID-19 requirements for traveling to Washington, D.C. U.S. Capitol BuildingStatus:Closed to the public until further notice. Check for updates:https://www.visitthecapitol.gov/plan-visit/book-tour-capitol White House Status: The White House has resumed public tours, on an extremely limited basis, at a dramatically scaled down level. Tours will be hosted two days a week instead of five, only on Friday and Saturday, from 8:00AM to 11:00AM. The number of individuals allowed in for tours will be held at under twenty percent of normal tour capacity. Requests must be submitted at least one month in advance. Please note that our office can only submit a request to the White House for your tour. All decisions about tour dates and times are made by the White House and subject to last minute rescheduling or cancellation. Confirmed tour guests will be notified by White House email approximately two weeks in advance and will receive detailed information on additional health and safety precautions in place at that time. All guests (ages 2 years and over) are required to wear a face covering and practice social distancing during their visit to the White House complex. Check for updates: Call my Washington, DC office at 202-224-4843 U.S. Supreme CourtStatus:Closed to the public until further notice. Check for updates:https://www.supremecourt.gov/announcements/COVID-19.aspx PentagonStatus:Public tours suspended until further notice. Check for updates:https://pentagontours.osd.mil/Tours/ Arlington CemeteryStatus:Closed to visitors; funerals proceed as scheduled. Check for updates:https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/COVID-19 Smithsonian Institution Museums & the National ZooStatus: All Smithsonian museums, including the National Zoo, will temporarily close to the publicstarting Monday, November 23 Check for updates: https://www.si.edu/visit/hours Library of CongressStatus: All Library of Congress buildings and facilities will be closed to the public, including researchers and others with reader identification cardsuntil further notice. Furthermore,all Library-sponsored public programs and public tours are canceled until further notice. Check for updates:https://www.loc.gov/about/pandemic-information/for-public/ United States Holocaust Memorial MuseumStatus:Temporarily closed. Check for updates:https://www.ushmm.org/ National ArchivesStatus:Closed to the public until further notice. Check for updates:https://www.archives.gov/coronavirus FBI HeadquartersStatus:Closed to all visitors until further notice.Check for updates:https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/fbi-headquarters/the-fbi-experience Bureau of Engraving and PrintingStatus:Public tours temporarily suspended. Check for updates:http://www.bep.gov United States MintStatus:Closed until further notice. Check for updates:https://www.usmint.gov/about/mint-tours-facilities The Kennedy CenterStatus:Most previously scheduled performances and events scheduled at the Kennedy Center through the end of 2020 have been canceled.The JFK Memorial is open for viewing Wedensday through Sunday from 10am-5pm. All visitors are required to wear a mask or face covering while in the building. Check for updates:https://www.kennedy-center.org/news-room/closure-update/ Ford's TheatreStatus:Opened for limited, self-guided tours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Timed tickets are required and made available each Friday for the following week. Check for updates:https://www.fords.org/visit/welcome-back/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1450,Cotton Praises Change Allowing Labeling of Israeli Goods,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 19, 2020 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact:Caroline TablerorJames Arnold(202) 734-0430 November 19, 2020 Cotton Praises Change Allowing Labeling of Israeli Goods Washington, D.C.Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the statement below after the administrationannouncedthat all producers within areas where Israel exercises the relevant authorities most notably Area C under the Oslo Accords will be required to mark goods as 'Israel', 'Product of Israel', or Made in Israel' when exporting to the United States. Yesterday, Senator Cotton sent aletterwith Senate colleagues urging the change in U.S. customs policy. Anti-Israel demagogues like the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions gang have long weaponized country-of-origin rules in their efforts to delegitimize Israel and discriminate against its goods. I commend the administration for heeding my call to end the discriminatory treatment of Israeli goods produced in Judea and Samaria, so they may be labeled properly, Made in Israel.' ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-praises-change-allowing-labeling-of-israeli-goods,Cotton Praises Change Allowing Labeling of Israeli Goods,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 November 19, 2020 Cotton Praises Change Allowing Labeling of Israeli Goods Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the statement below after the administration announced that “all producers within areas where Israel exercises the relevant authorities – most notably? Area C ?under the Oslo Accords ?–? will be required to ?mark ?goods as ?’Israel’, ?’Product of Israel’, or ‘Made in Israel’ ?when exporting to the United States.” Yesterday, Senator Cotton sent a letter with Senate colleagues urging the change in U.S. customs policy. “Anti-Israel demagogues like the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions gang have long weaponized country-of-origin rules in their efforts to delegitimize Israel and discriminate against its goods. I commend the administration for heeding my call to end the discriminatory treatment of Israeli goods produced in Judea and Samaria, so they may be labeled properly, ‘Made in Israel.’”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=1449,Our Pilgrim Fathers,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 18, 2020 A great American anniversary is upon us. Four hundred years ago this Saturday, a battered old ship called the Mayflower arrived in the waters off Cape Cod. The passengers aboard the Mayflower are, in many ways, our first founders. Daniel Webster called them Our Pilgrim Fathers on the two hundredth anniversary of this occasion. Regrettably, we haven't heard much about this anniversary of the Mayflower; I suppose the Pilgrims have fallen out of favor in fashionable circles these days. I'd therefore like to take a few minutes to reflect on the Pilgrim story and its living legacy for our nation. By 1620, the Pilgrims were already practiced at living in a strange land. They had fled England for Holland twelve years earlier, seeking freedom to practice their faith. But life was hard in Holland and the Stuart monarchy, intolerant of dissent from the Church of England, gradually extended its oppressive reach across the Channel. So the Pilgrims fled the Old World for the New. In seeking safe harbor for their religion, the Pilgrims differed from those settlers who preceded them in the previous century, up to and including the Jamestown settlement just thirteen years earlier. As John Quincy Adams put it in a speech celebrating the Pilgrims' anniversary, those earlier settlers were all instigated by personal interests, motivated by avarice and ambition and selfish passions. The Pilgrims, by contrast, braved the seas under the single inspiration of conscience and out of a sense of religious obligation. Not to say all aboard the Mayflower felt the same. About half of the 102 passengers were known as Strangers to the Pilgrims. The Strangers were craftsmen, traders, indentured servants, and others added to the manifest by the ship's financial backers for business reasons. The Strangers did not share the Pilgrims' faith, suffice it to say. Winston Churchill in his History of the English-Speaking Peoples, wryly observed that the Strangers were no picked band of saints. So these were the settlers who boarded the Mayflower, which Dwight Eisenhower once characterized as a ship that today no one in his senses would think of attempting to use. One can only imagine the hardships, the dangers, the doubts that they faced while crossing the north Atlantic. The ship leaked chronically. A main beam bowed and cracked. The passage took longer than expectedmore than two months. Food and water (or beer, often the beverage of choice) ran dangerously low. But somehow, through the grace of God and the skill of the crew, the Mayflower finally sighted land. Yet the dangers only multiplied. William Bradford, a Pilgrim leader whose Of Plymouth Plantation is our chief source for the Pilgrim story, recorded those dangers: They had now no friends to welcome them, nor inns to entertain or refresh their weather-beaten bodies; no houses or much less town to repair to, to seek for succor. And for the season it was winter, and they that know the winters of that country know them to be sharp and violent, and subject to cruel and fierce storms, dangerous to travel to known places, much more to search an unknown coast. Besides, what could they see but a hideous and desolate wilderness And to those physical dangers, you can add legal and political danger. While the Mayflower had found land, it was the wrong land. For, you see, the Pilgrims' patent extended to Virginia, but Cape Cod was hundreds of miles to the north. According to Bradford, some of the Strangers, perhaps hoping to strike out on their own in search of riches, began to make discontented and mutinous speeches. These Strangers asserted that when they came ashore, they would use their own liberty; for none had the power to command them in New England. Maybe they had a point. But Pilgrim and Stranger alike also had a problem: they couldn't survive the desolate wilderness alone. Before landfall, then, they mutually worked out their differences and formed what Bradford modestly called a combination. This combination is known to us and history, of course, as the Mayflower Compact. But this little compactfewer than two hundred wordswas no mere combination. It was America's very first constitution; indeed, in Calvin Coolidge's words, the first constitution of modern times. Likewise, Churchill called the Mayflower Compact one of the more remarkable documents in history, a spontaneous covenant for political organization. High praise, coming from him, so it's worth reflecting a little more on a few points about the Compact. First, while the Pilgrims affirmed their allegiance to England and the monarchy, they left little doubt about their priorities. The Compact begins with their traditional religious invocation: In the name of God, Amen. They expressed as the ends of their arduous voyage, in order, the Glory of God, the advancement of the Christian faith, and only then the honor of our King and Country. And much like the Founding Fathers' famous pledge to each other before divine Providence one hundred fifty-six years later, the Pilgrims covenanted with each other solemnly and mutually in the presence of God. Second, they respected each other as free and equal citizens. Whether Pilgrim or Stranger, the signatories covenanted together to form a government, irrespective of faith or station. Third and related, that government would be self-government based on the consent of the governed. The Pilgrims did not anoint a patriarch; they formed a civil body politic based on just and equal laws, ordinances, acts, constitutions, and offices. And immediately after signing the Compact, they conducted a democratic election to choose their first governor. Fourth, again prefiguring the Declaration, the Pilgrims did not surrender all rights to that government. They promised all due submission and obedience to the new governmentnot their total or unquestioning or permanent submission and obedience. That obedience would presumably be due as long as the laws remained just and equal, and the officers appointed performed their duties in just and equal manner. Finally, even in that moment of great privation and peril, the Pilgrims turned their eyes upward to the higher, nobler ends of political society. They listed their preservation as an objective of their new government, but even before that came our better ordering. The Pilgrims understood that liberty, prosperity, faith, and flourishing are only possible with order, and that while safety may be the first responsibility of government, it's not the highest or ultimate purpose of government. This new government would do more than merely protect the settlers or resolve their disputes; it would aim for the general good of the Colony. There, aboard that rickety old ship, tossed about in the cold New England waters, the Pilgrims foreshadowed in fewer than two hundred words so many cherished concepts of our nation. Faith in God and His providential protection. The natural equality of mankind. From many, one. Government by consent. The rule of law. Equality before the law, and the impartial administration of the law. Little wonder, therefore, that Adams referred to the Mayflower Compact and the Pilgrims' arrival as the birth-day of your nation. Or that Webster, despite all the settlements preceding Plymouth, said the first scene of our history was laid there. But that history was only just beginning. The Pilgrims still had to conquer the desolate wilderness and establish their settlement. Considering the challenges, it's a wonder that they did. As Coolidge observed, though, the Compact was not the most wonderful thing about the Mayflower. The most wonderful of all was that those who drew it up had the power, the determination, and the strength of character to live up to it from that day. They would need all that and more to survive what has been called the starving time. Upon landfall, the Pilgrims fell upon their knees and blessed the God of Heaven who had brought them over the vast and furious ocean. But it would be a sad and lamentable winter of disease, starvation, and death, as half the settlers died and seldom more than half a dozen had the strength to care for the ill, provide food and shelter, and protect the camp. As anyone who has endured a New England winter knows, at that rate there might not have been any camp left to protect by spring. But what can only be seen as a providential moment came in March, when a lone Indian walked boldly into their camp and greeted them in English. His name was Samoset. He had learned some broken English by working with English fishermen in the waters off what is now Maine. Samoset and the Pilgrims exchanged gifts, and he promised to return with another Indian, Squanto, who spoke fluent English. Squanto's tribe had been wiped out a few years earlier by an epidemic plague; he now lived among the Wampanoag tribe in what is today southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The plague had also weakened the Wampanoags, though not neighboring, rival tribes. The Wampanoag chief, Massasoit, thus had good reason to form an alliance with the Pilgrims. Squanto introduced him to the settlers and facilitated their peace and mutual-aid treaty, which lasted more than fifty years. Squanto remained with the Pilgrims, acting, in Bradford's words, as their interpreter and a special instrument sent of God for their good beyond their expectations. He instructed them on the cultivation of native crops like corn, squash, and beans. He showed them where to fish and hunt. He guided them on land and sea to new destinations. And you probably remember what happened next. As the Pilgrims recovered and prospered throughout 1621, they received the blessings of a bountiful fall harvest. The Pilgrims entertained Massasoit and the Wampanoags and feasted with them, to express their gratitude to their allies and to give thanks to God for His abundant gifts. This meal, of course, was the First Thanksgiving. Now, the Thanksgiving season is upon us and once again we have much to give thanks for. But this year we ought to be especially thankful for our ancestors, the Pilgrims, on their four hundredth anniversary. Their faith, their bravery, their wisdom places them in the American pantheon. Alongside the Patriots of 1776, the Pilgrims of 1620 deserve the honor of American founders. Sadly, however, there appear to be few commemorations, parades, or festivals to celebrate the Pilgrims this year, perhaps in part because revisionist charlatans of the radical left have lately claimed the previous year as America's true founding. Nothing could be further from the truth. The Pilgrims and their Compact, like the Founders and their Declaration, form the true foundation of America. So count me in Coolidge's camp. On this anniversary a century ago, he proclaimed, it is our duty and the duty of every true American to reassemble in spirit in the cabin of the Mayflower, rededicate ourselves to the Pilgrims' great work by re-signing and reaffirming the document that has made mankind of all the earth more glorious. Sometoo manymay have lost the civilizational self-confidence needed to celebrate the Pilgrims. Just today, for instance, The New York Times called this story a myth and a caricaturein the Food Section, no less. Maybe the politically correct editors of the debunked 1619 Project are now responsible for pumpkin-pie recipes at the Times, as well. But I for one still have the pride and confidence of our forebears, so here today, I speak in the spirit of that cabin and I reaffirm that old Compact. As we head into the week of Thanksgiving, I'll be giving thanks this year in particular to our Pilgrim Fathers and the timeless lessons they bequeathed to our great nation. For as Coolidge observed, Plymouth Rock does not mark a beginning or an end. It marks a revelation of that which is without beginning and without end. May God continue to bless this land and may He bless the memory of the Pilgrims of 1620. I extend my best wishes to you and your family for a Thanksgiving as happy and peaceful as the First Thanksgiving.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1448,"Cotton, Colleagues Urge Administration to Change Israeli Goods Labeling Policy",2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 18, 2020 Washington, D.C. - On Monday, Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), along with Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Kelly Loeffler (R-Georgia), and Marco Rubio (R-Florida), sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging the administration to change U.S. customs policy and guidelines to allow Israeli goods produced in Judea and Samaria to be labeled ""Made in Israel."" ""Your administration should continue its string of pro-Israel policy changes by undoing these misguided Clinton-era guidelines, thereby allowing Israeli goods produced in Judea and Samaria to be labeled as Made in Israel.' This decision would be yet another achievement by your administration that would support Israel and would push back against anti-Semitism and the BDS movement,"" the Senators write. The full text of the letter can be found by clicking here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-colleagues-urge-administration-to-change-israeli-goods-labeling-policy,"Cotton, Colleagues Urge Administration to Change Israeli Goods Labeling Policy",2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - On Monday, Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), along with Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Kelly Loeffler (R-Georgia), and Marco Rubio (R-Florida), sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging the administration to change U.S. customs policy and guidelines to allow Israeli goods produced in Judea and Samaria to be labeled ""Made in Israel."" ""Your administration should continue its string of pro-Israel policy changes by undoing these misguided Clinton-era guidelines, thereby allowing Israeli goods produced in Judea and Samaria to be labeled as ‘Made in Israel.' This decision would be yet another achievement by your administration that would support Israel and would push back against anti-Semitism and the BDS movement,"" the Senators write. The full text of the letter can be found by clicking here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/11/senators-introduce-resolution-honoring-the-world-food-program-for-receiving-nobel-peace-prize,Senators Introduce Resolution Honoring the World Food Program for Receiving Nobel Peace Prize,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONThe Senate Hunger Caucus has unveiled an effort to honor the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) for receiving the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize. The caucus co-chairsSens. John Boozman (R-AR), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Bob Casey (D-PA), Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Jerry Moran (R-KS)have introducedS.Res.774that congratulates the WFP for being awarded the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize, affirms the organization's mission and expresses support for the leadership of WFP Executive Director David Beasley. Additionally, the resolution reiterates the Senate's commitment to the goal of working with the international community to end hunger, achieve food security and improve nutrition through the work of the WFP. Eliminating hunger at home and abroad takes an all-hands-on-deck approach. It requires leaders with visionary solutions and supporting team members who are willing to put in the hard work to bring about meaningful change. David Beasley and his team at the WFP embody these principles. I congratulate them and offer my continued support as we work together toward a world where hunger is no longer an issue,saidBoozman. For nearly 60 years, the World Food Program has been on the front lines fighting hunger, preventing famines and responding to humanitarian crises across the world,said Brown.The WFP is a worthy recipient of the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize and I congratulate the women and men of the WFP who have worked so hard to make the world a better place. I am honored to join my colleagues on the Senate Hunger Caucus to recognize the outstanding work of the WFP. World Food Program staff and volunteers are on the front lines fighting famine, hunger and malnutrition in the world's most difficult to reach regions. Awarding WFP with the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize is not only commendation of the incredible work WFP does, but also a recognition that food security is essential to fighting poverty and achieving a more just and equitable world. As the world deals with an unprecedented pandemic, conflict and displacement, we must not forget that hunger is often one of the first effects of unrest. I congratulate WFP for this well-deserved honor and along with my colleagues remain committed to fighting hunger and malnutrition around the world,saidCasey. So many in America and across the globe suffer from a shortage of food. The World Food Program has been a steadfast leader in the fight to end world hunger, providing innovative solutions and determination to end this struggle. I'm proud to join members of the bipartisan Senate Hunger Caucus to introduce a resolution that commends the WFP's Nobel Peace Prize and recognizes the need to continue our efforts in the Senate to end world hunger,said Durbin. As hunger impacts families here in the United States and around the globe, it will take collaboration between producers, Congress and organizations like the World Food Program to eradicate hunger,said Moran.Fighting hunger is not only the morally right thing to do; it is also the smart thing to do for our producers, and I applaud the World Food Program and the work they do each day to end hunger. We are deeply grateful for this bipartisan recognition from the leaders of the Senate Hunger Caucus. From the time of the United Nations World Food Program's creation in 1961, the United States has remained a stalwart and generous donor in support of our lifesaving work in more than 80 countries around the world,said Barron Segar President & CEO of World Food Program USA.Being named the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate is a timely and decisive acknowledgement that ending hunger is a critical first step towards peace. The award is a tribute to the sacrifice and commitment of the U.N. World Food Program's 18,000 staff, many of whom work on the frontlines of hunger and conflict, delivering food assistance that offers hope to some of the most vulnerable people, living in some of the world's most remote and insecure locations.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/conservation-depends-outdoor-recreation,Conservation Depends on Outdoor Recreation,2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Ever since I was elected to Congress, I've served on the House Committee on Natural Resources. This committee oversees public land management, water resources, critical minerals and more. It also has jurisdiction over wildlife management, something that I am particularly interested in as an avid sportsman. When I get on a flight home to Hot Springs from D.C., I'm usually looking forward to fishing in Lake Ouachita or hunting in the woods, depending on the season. I've been to all 50 U.S. states and territories and I still don't think there's a better place for outdoor activities than Arkansas. What you may not realize is that hunters and outdoor sportsmen and women are often the most committed conservationists. These are people whose passions and interests are dependent on the health and long-term sustainability of wildlife populations and habitats. For example, hunting seasons and bag limits, as determined by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, ensure the state's wildlife populations do not exceed their natural carrying capacity and ensure we live side-by-side with nature. Now more than ever, I believe Arkansas can lead the way in showing the world what healthy stewardship of our resources looks like. It doesn't mean we lock up millions of acres and prohibit recreation opportunities; on the contrary, it means we incentivize hunting and land usage in a way that leaves the environment in better condition than we inherited it. I'm proud to be a sportsman and advocate for these issues in Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404256,Womack Honors Winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge,2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Steve Womack,W000809,womack.house.gov,,,legacy,"7th grader from Fayetteville wins the 2020 Congressional App Challenge after developing an app that will help agriculture producers track soil moisture Pictured: Rep. Womack (right) with Congressional App Challenge Winner Veera Unnam (left) Bentonville, AR November 13, 2020.Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today honored Veera Sai Joshik Unnam, a 7th grader at Haas Hall Academy in Bentonville and resident of Fayetteville, for winning the 2020 Congressional App Challenge. The annual and nationwide coding competition for middle school and high school students aims to encourage our nation's youth to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education and computer science careers. Congressman Womacksaid, The future is bright with Arkansas's next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs using this competition to leverage their science, technology, engineering, and math skills. A big congratulations to Veera on this incredible achievement! His app which is purposed in helping our farmers and agriculture industry shows how young minds are utilizing coding to find creative solutions to the problems we face. Dr. Rod Wittenberg, Headmaster at Haas Hall Bentonville, said, We are incredibly proud of Veera. As a 7th grader, he used his technological savvyto create a user-friendly app with tremendous real-world utility. As a scholar at Haas Hall Academy Bentonville, I feel that Veera has unlimited potential. Thank you, Congressman Womack, for advocating for the youth of Arkansas and promoting STEM activities. Jeff Amerine, Founder and Managing Director of Startup Junkie, said All of the competitors in this year's Congressional App Challenge created compelling solutions. The process of choosing the winner was very difficult as a result. The winner exhibited an understanding of a meaningful problem in agriculture, technical prowess in both hardware and software development, and the ability to tell the story. Candidly, it was amazing for a student in the 7th grade. Overall, thecompetingstudents reinforce my optimismfor the future every year, and I thank Congressman Womack for continually hosting this challenge. Veera's winning app,Soil Moisture Control, allows farmers and people to monitor the soil moisture levels of crops in the field, as well as house plants. The app reads the moisture levels in real-time and uses the data it collects to suggest whether more or less water is needed to maintain a healthy growth environment. Impressively, Veera developed both software and hardware components, which means his application is fully functional. You can watch a tutorial of the winning app from soil analysis to water being pumped into the plant remotely here. Womack honored Veera with a certificate and congressional medallion at a ceremony at Haas Hall Academy. Entries were reviewed by a panel of local technology experts and judged on originality, creativity, and quality of the app design. The judges included Jeff Amerine, Phyl Amerine, and Haley Allgood of Startup Junkie.Soil Moisture Control will be featured on a digital display in the U.S. Capitol and on the Congressional App Challenge website. Additional honorees include: 2nd Place: Ananya Vangoor, a senior at Bentonville West High School AskClass App 3rd Place: Lucas Jaggermauth, a senior from Haas Hall Academy in Rogers Code Craft App This is the sixth year that Womack has hosted the Congressional App Challenge in Arkansas's Third Congressional District. The Natural State has consistently had every congressional district partake in the competition, making Arkansas one of the top Congressional App Challenge participants per capita from across the United States. Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas's Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations Committee. womack.house.gov ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/11/legislative-win-for-conservation,Legislative Win for Conservation,2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Arkansas is blessed with a wonderful landscape and incredible wildlife that people from all across the country come to our state to enjoy. Preserving and protecting our environment is vital to enabling future generations of Americans to participate in popular outdoor activities. This Congress, we'vetakensignificantactionto improvefederal conservation programs, most recently with the enactment ofAmerica's Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Act. This bipartisan conservation law advances and expands programs to safeguard wildlife and ecosystems. It will enable us tobetter implement collaborative strategies to protect and restorewetlandhabitatby reauthorizing critical programs that have a track record of success like the North American Wetlands ConservationAct(NAWCA). This program has resulted in the restoration of thousands of acres of wildlife habitat in Arkansas and more than 30 million acres nationwide. Our state has also benefited from theNational Fish Habitat Partnership (NFHP), a programArkansas Game and FishCommission assistant chief of fisheries, Jason Olive, says has recently helped projects on Lake Poinsett and Lake Ouachita. This law codifies the NFHP and increases federal support for its efforts to improve fish habitat and the jobs and businesses that depend on a healthy and robust fish population. This law also helps maintain a healthy wildlife population. Arkansas hunters are facing new challenges and emerging threats to the safety of the deer population as a result of chronic wasting disease (CWD).Since it was first detected in the state four years ago, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has taken strategic actions to prevent the spread of this degenerative disease in deer, elk and moose by implementing innovative ways to address this problem. TheACE Actestablishes a CWD task force within the U.S. Department of the Interior so we can expand federal assistance to better collaborate with state and local officials to fight this disease. As an avid outdoorsman, I'm proud to advocateand supportfederal programs thatstrengthenour nation's wetlands andbolsterwaterfowl habitat. That's why I cosponsored this legislation in the Senate and worked with wildlife conservation groups to help move this through the legislative process. When President Trump signed this bipartisan bill into law last month, there was widespread support among conservationists, hunters and anglers because all of these stakeholders want what's best for our public lands, and we all want to be able to utilize these national treasures for years to come. Earlier this year, Congress passed, and the president signed into law, theGreat American Outdoors Actwhich invests in the upkeep of public lands. With both bills signed into law, this Congress has been a banner year for the conservation community one wildlife conservation leader said. Thisunderscores how broad the consensus is around the necessitytoprotect our natural resources. We've made remarkable progress this year, and I'm committed to advocating for and promoting policies that preserve and protect our wildlife and wetlands.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1447,Cotton Statement on Shooting of Helena Officer,2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 13, 2020 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact:Caroline TablerorJames Arnold(202) 734-0430 November 13, 2020 Cotton Statement on Shooting of Helena Officer Washington, D.C.Following the arrest of two suspects in the murder of Helena-West Helena Police Officer Travis Wallace, Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the following statement: Officer Travis Wallace tragically lost his life protecting his fellow citizens from dangerous criminals. Although he was taken too early from this earth in a despicable act of cowardice, we will all forever remember his brave service. Pray for his family, his fellow officers, and the community of Helena-West Helena. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-statement-on-shooting-of-helena-officer,Cotton Statement on Shooting of Helena Officer,2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler orJames Arnold (202) 734-0430 November 13, 2020 Cotton Statement on Shooting of Helena Officer Washington, D.C. — Following the arrest of two suspects in the murder of Helena-West Helena Police Officer Travis Wallace, Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the following statement: “Officer Travis Wallace tragically lost his life protecting his fellow citizens from dangerous criminals. Although he was taken too early from this earth in a despicable act of cowardice, we will all forever remember his brave service. Pray for his family, his fellow officers, and the community of Helena-West Helena.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-announces-2020-congressional-app-challenge-winners,Westerman Announces 2020 Congressional App Challenge Winners,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,AR,Bruce Westerman,W000821,westerman.house.gov,westerman,https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) hosted a virtual reception announcing the winners of the Congressional App Challenge. Westerman issued the following statement: ""I look forward to the Congressional App Challenge every year as a way to showcase the incredible talent of Fourth District students. Unfortunately I didn't get to meet with them in person this year due to COVID-19, but I'm glad we still got to hold the reception virtually so I could congratulate them on all their hard work. It's always difficult to pick a winner!"" Background The Congressional App Challenge is an annual event in which middle and high school students across the country design and code their own original apps. The winning team from each congressional district is honored at an event in Washington, D.C., where they present their apps to attendees. This year, the Fourth District received 14 submissions from students, and the winners were announced this evening during a virtual event held on Zoom. The 2020 Fourth District top five teams are: First Place: Jacob Heffington, from Hot Springs High School, with his app, ""Hot Springs District COVID-19 Screening."" Second Place (tie): Claire Green, Shawn Chen, Eric Fluke and Yibling Hu, from Arkansas School of Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts (ASMSA), with their app, ""Capstone Coach."" Second Place (tie): Elle Stokes, from Dardanelle High School, with her app, ""everyBODY."" Third Place: Alexandra Flores, Mikey Gatica, Allisandro Perez and Arielis Rodriguez, from Dardanelle High School, with their app, ""AR4U."" Fourth Place: David Clark, Soumya Chauhan, Pierce Hickey and Steven Lynch, from ASMSA, with their app, ""Terra-Aid.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1445,Cotton Statement on Veterans Day,2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 11, 2020 Washington, D.C. - Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the following statement in observance of Veterans Day: ""Veterans Day is a fitting time for Americans to celebrate the brave few who have accepted great hardship and danger to defend our nation, from the beaches of Europe and jungles of Asia to the deserts of the Middle East. Today, let us praise and remember all our heroes and the family members who faithfully supported them during their trials. May we never forget the great cause for which they fought, which is the cause of freedom.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cotton.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1446,Cotton Praises Passage of Bill Allowing Medal of Honor for SFC Cashe,2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 11, 2020 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact:Caroline TablerorJames Arnold(202) 734-0430 November 11, 2020 Cotton Praises Passage of Bill Allowing Medal of Honor for SFC Cashe Washington, D.C.Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the following statement after unanimous Senate passage of his bill that allows the awarding of the Medal of Honor toSergeant First Class (SFC) Alwyn Cashe. The bill passed the House of Representatives earlier this year. Alwyn Cashe's incredible bravery on the battlefield in service of his fellow Americans is worthy of the Medal of Honor. Now, Mr. Cashe's ultimate sacrifice can be formally recognized by the president and appreciated by our grateful nation, saidCotton. Background: SFC Cashe exemplified the finest traditions of military heroism when he disregarded his own safety andsaved the livesof six fellow soldiers despite his serious injuries during Operation Iraqi Freedom in October of 2005. Cashe later died from his wounds, which included severe burns over 70% of his body. The bill text may be foundhere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z