url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-announces-mobile-office-hours-in-grafton-and-lakota-jan-9,Cramer Announces Mobile Office Hours in Grafton and Lakota Jan. 9,2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer has scheduled Mobile Office Hours in Grafton and Lakota on Monday, Jan. 9. Mobile Office Hours allow constituents to receive assistance with casework from the Congressman’s staff. “Many issues are raised through various forms of contact with me and my offices. Having members of my staff in Grafton and Lakota will allow more time for those with concerns and questions to explore solutions with people in a position to help,” said Cramer. “I realize it's not always easy or even possible for people to get to my district offices. Mobile Office Hours brings these services closer to constituents.” Individuals from the Grafton and Lakota areas are encouraged to stop by the Mobile Office for help with veterans and Social Security benefits, Medicare billing problems, immigration issues, military records or medals, or for assistance with any other federal agency. Mobile Office Hours — Monday, Jan. 9 Carnegie Regional Library — 10 to 11:30 a.m.             630 Griggs Ave, Grafton, ND    Lakota Library — 1:30 to 3 p.m. 116 B Avenue West, Lakota, ND Contact Randy Richards, Cramer’s field representative, with any questions.  His email is randy.richards@mail.house.gov and his phone is 701-738-4880.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-nearly-200000-in-awards-for-rural-north-dakota-communities-to-attract-investment-create-jobs,"Hoeven Announces Nearly $200,000 in Awards for Rural North Dakota Communities to Attract Investment, Create Jobs",2016-12-30,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.30.16 Hoeven Announces Nearly $200,000 in Awards for Rural North Dakota Communities to Attract Investment, Create Jobs WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded two grants totaling $198,000 to the Lake Agassiz Regional Council, North Central Planning Council and the Souris Basin Planning Council. The investment awards will support the councils' work to develop and implement a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy to attract private capital investments and create job in the regions they serve. Lake Agassiz Regional Council $66,000 The council serves Cass, Ransom, Richland, Sargent, Steele and Traill counties. North Central Planning Council $66,000 The council serves Benson, Cavalier, Eddy, Ramsey, Rolette and Towner counties as well as the Spirit Lake Nation and Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa. Souris Basin Planning Council $66,000 The council serves Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, Mountrail, Pierce, Renville and Ward counties. Today's investment awards will help rural areas in North Dakota create an economic development framework to help create jobs and attract investments to these communities, Hoeven said. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-presents-lost-medals-to-family-of-world-war-ii-pilot,Cramer Presents Lost Medals to Family of World War II Pilot,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"FARGO, N.D. – Congressman Kevin Cramer presented the family of the late Sgt. Robert Johnston six World War II military medals in a ceremony today at the Fargo Air Museum.  The medals were earned during Johnston’s service in the Army Air Corps from 1942 to 1945.  Records of the medals were lost and never awarded to Johnston, who died in 1996.  His grandson, Levi Otis of Fargo, contacted Cramer’s office for assistance in locating the lost records. In today’s ceremony, Cramer presented Johnston’s widow, Lila Johnston, with her husband’s medals, the Air Medal and Oak Leaf Cluster, the POW Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and Bronze Star Attachment, the World War II Victory Medal and the Honorable Service Lapel Button from World War II.  He also presented her with an American flag flown over the U.S. Capitol Building.  “It is my great honor to present these medals to you,” Cramer told Mrs. Johnston.  “As the service person serves, so does the spouse and the family.  Thank you for giving me the opportunity today to honor the memory of your husband and recognize this outstanding member of our Greatest Generation.” Johnston served in the Army Air Corps during World War II as an airplane mechanic gunner.  He took part in the massive Allied air offenses over German-controlled Europe, which included the Naples-Foggia Campaign that was vital in driving Italy from the war, and the Rome-Arno Campaign which not only liberated the city of Rome, but saved the lives of countless Italian citizens.  His airplane was shot down flying over enemy territory on Jan. 30, 1944.  Johnston was forced to parachute out of the plane, injuring his shoulder, where he was captured by German soldiers.  He was sent to a prisoner of war camp in East Prussia and then to Germany.  A POW for 16 months, Johnston stole a German officer’s car and escaped to Allied territory.  After World War II, Johnston returned to his home area of Henning, Minn., and later served in the Korean War. He was a self-employed heavy equipment operator, farmer and trucker.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/faa-notifies-hoeven-that-authorization-for-beyond-line-of-sight-operability-is-approved,FAA Notifies Hoeven that Authorization for Beyond-Line-of-Sight Operability is Approved,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.28.16 FAA Notifies Hoeven that Authorization for Beyond-Line-of-Sight Operability is Approved Senator Worked to Secure COA for First in the Nation Beyond-Line-of-Sight Operability WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved a certificate of authorization (COA) for the Northern Plains UAS Test Site to oversee unmanned aircraft operations that go beyond the line of sight of the operator. The senator worked to secure approval of this request from the FAA. The North Dakota test site is the first in the nation to have such beyond-line-of-sight operability. This means the test site will be able to support the development, testing and evaluation of a wide range of new applications for UAS technology, giving the state a competitive edge. The FAA's approval of this COA is a major step forward for North Dakota and the UAS industry in general because UAS will have to be able to fly beyond the line of sight in order to operate concurrently with piloted aircraft in the National Air Space, Hoeven said. This authorization will help companies like General Atomics, Northrop Grumman and future tenants at the Grand Sky technology park test and evaluate complex UAS operations possible nowhere else in the nation. It also makes North Dakota an attractive place for government agencies like NASA, the Air Force and the Department of Homeland Security to integrate UAS into the national airspace system. North Dakota is ideally suited to support beyond line of sight operations with the combination of an FAA test site, the Grand Sky Technology Park and Grand Forks Air Force Base, which hosts the Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system. Grand Forks Air Force Base uses a DASR-11 digital radar system. The system helps operators track unmanned aircraft so they can fly safely even when beyond the sight of the UAS operator. Hoeven secured funding for upgrades to this system and a similar system at Hector Field in Fargo earlier this year as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. The Northern Plains UAS Test Site will continue to use a chase plane until the Grand Sky Technology Park implements a scheduled software upgrade to its system so that it can link to the DASR-11 radar at Grand Forks Air Force Base. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-more-than-19-million-in-hud-funding-for-north-dakota,Hoeven Announces More than $1.9 Million in HUD Funding for North Dakota,2016-12-22,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.22.16 Hoeven Announces More than $1.9 Million in HUD Funding for North Dakota WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded a total of $1,903,991 to organizations in North Dakota. The funds, part of HUD's Continuum of Care Program, support organizations and service programs working to end homelessness by serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness. All North Dakotans deserve access to safe, healthy housing, and today's funds will help families and individuals secure permanent housing in North Dakota, Hoeven said. The funds are awarded as follows: Fargo Housing and Redevelopment Authority $389,883 YWCA Cass Clay $345,525 North Dakota Department of Commerce $304,416 Burleigh County Housing Authority $209,150 North Dakota Coalition for Homeless People, Inc. in Bismarck $133,572 Fraser Ltd. in Fargo $124,575 Community Violence Intervention Center in Grand Forks $93,928 Prairie Harvest Mental Health in Grand Forks $89,727 Abused Adult Resource Center in Bismarck $83,664 Prairie Heights in Devils Lake $46,675 Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Center in Dickinson $37,599 Minot YWCA's Center of Hope and Emergency Shelter $30,000 St. Joseph's Social Care and Thrift Store in Grand Forks $15,277 -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-brings-usaf-chief-of-staff-to-nd-to-see-one-of-a-kind-capabilities-of-grand-forks-air-force-base-grand-sky-tech-park,"Hoeven Brings USAF Chief of Staff to N.D. to See One-of-a-Kind Capabilities of Grand Forks Air Force Base, Grand Sky Tech Park",2016-12-22,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.22.16 Hoeven Brings USAF Chief of Staff to N.D. to See One-of-a-Kind Capabilities of Grand Forks Air Force Base, Grand Sky Tech Park Beyond-Line-of-Sight Authorization Expected by Year End, NASA Partnership Progressing, Opportunities for Cybersecurity Operations Emerging GRAND FORKS, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today led a roundtable with U.S. Air Force (USAF) Chief of Staff General David Goldfein and officials from Grand Sky, the Grand Forks Air Force Base (GFAFB) and the North Dakota University System (NDUS). Hoeven invited Goldfein to the state so he could see firsthand the unique capabilities offered by the base and Grand Sky Technology and Business Park, which are available nowhere else in the nation. We're leading the way in UAS, creating a one-of-a-kind facility, Hoeven said. And before the end of the year we'll be adding FAA authorization for beyond-line-of-sight operations, another unique capability that will enable us to safely develop concurrent Air Space use for both military and civilian operations. Our facility will enable FAA and DOD to work together in one location. We'll be able to do research, testing, training and deployment without chase aircraft statewide across North Dakota. That can't be done anyplace else in the country and will give us a competitive edge. This opens opportunities for military and commercial applications and will attract more companies like Northrop Grumman and General Atomics to set up operations at Grand Sky. Today, we had the privilege of hosting Gen. David Goldfein's tour of Grand Sky and sharing in a discussion of the future of UAS and its impact on military and private sectors, said Thomas Swoyer, Jr., president of the Grand Sky Development Co. The UAS industry continues to be among the fastest-growing in the world. Because of continued support from our local, state and federal officials, Grand Sky is poised to maintain its leadership role in the UAS industry. This support has put North Dakota on the map as a hub of UAS activity and we look forward to continued success as a team. Before the roundtable, the senator joined General Goldfein and Swoyer on a tour of the business park to review its shared runway with the air base, new General Atomics Flight Training Academy now under construction and plans for future development. Securing Beyond-Line-of-Sight Operations The senator told roundtable participants that he expects the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to provide a Certificate of Authorization (COA) for the Northern Plains UAS Test site for beyond-line-of-sight operations sometime next week, as they committed to him. The authorization will make the North Dakota UAS test site the first in the nation to have such operability. Authorization means that unmanned vehicles will be able to fly outside of view and with no manned tracking aircraft. The FAA's approval would be due in part to the DASR-11 digital radar system at GFAB. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven earlier this year secured $2 million for technical upgrades for this system and a similar system at Hector Field in Fargo. NASA's Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) System In a related initiative Hoeven is also working to partner the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Ames Research Center to partner with Grand Sky to develop the agency's Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system and other programs that will help to safely integrate UAS into the National Air Space. Earlier this year, the senator met with Dr. John Cavolowsky, NASA's lead researcher in developing its UTM system. This partnership would build on work already undertaken by the test site, which helped NASA evaluate its traffic management platform in April by conducting close-proximity UAS flight tests. Emerging Opportunities in Data Management, Cybersecurity Hoeven also underscored the fact that UAS are capable of gathering enormous amounts of data, and are becoming increasingly important for cybersecurity and commercial applications. For example, EdgeData recently announced plans to establish a data center at Grand Sky. The company will allow Grand Sky tenants to safely store data and convert it into consumable information. To meet the growing needs for secure data management and analysis, the North Dakota University System (NDUS) has undertaken an effort to develop a comprehensive cyber education and research program. Bismarck State College offers a two-year program in cybersecurity, and new course development is ongoing at NDSU, UND and Minot State University. These programs will offer opportunities for service members to improve their cybersecurity knowledge and gain credentials, enhancing the cybersecurity missions of the North Dakota National Guard. These include the regional Cyber Protection Team and the 119th Air Wing's cyber targeting mission at Hector Field, for which Hoeven secured $7.3 million to build a new facility. Hoeven authored and helped pass legislation in 2012 creating the FAA's six test sites to integrate UAS into the National Airspace. He also included a provision in the FAA Reauthorization bill passed this year to extend the authorization for the test sites, including the Northern Plains UAS Test Site, through September 2019. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-congratulates-paul-lindseth-on-appointment-to-dot-working-group,CRAMER: Congratulates Paul Lindseth on Appointment to DOT Working Group,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer congratulated Paul Lindseth, Dean of University of North Dakota’s John D. Odegaard School of Aerospace Sciences, on his appointment to the newly formed U.S. Department of Transportation’s Working Group on Improving Air Service to Small Communities. “Rural residents depend on airports in communities across North Dakota to ensure they have access to air travel connecting them to larger markets,“ said Cramer. “Paul understands this well, especially as it relates to having well-trained pilots meeting those needs. His extensive experience as an instructor and Air Force pilot makes him a great choice to advocate for our state. I look forward to working with Paul in his new role.“ Lindseth will join 24 other members from small communities involved in aviation across the United States to advise Congress on priorities, issues and funding needs in rural areas.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-statement-on-the-release-of-clean-power-plan-model-rule-working,CRAMER: Statement on the Release of Clean Power Plan Model Rule Working Drafts,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer issued the following statement regarding the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) releasing its Clean Power Plan Model Rule working drafts, viewable here. “The release of these working drafts is nothing more than manipulation disguised as transparency. It’s clearly a nudge by the EPA to the states to try and get them to adopt a cap-and-trade program that the Congress of the United States has already rejected. The incoming President has also made it very clear there will be no cap-and-trade policy forthcoming. What this really reminds us is that it’s time to end the illegal power grabs, and a reminder that we need to not rest – but to double down on our diligence as pro-growth, pro-job Republicans to ensure future environmental policy is guided by regular order, not executive fiat.” Cramer has been a vocal opponent of the Clean Power Plan Model and the EPA’s lack of transparency during the rulemaking.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-administrations-stream-buffer-rule-doesnt-work-for-north-dakota,Hoeven: Administration's Stream Buffer Rule Doesn't Work for North Dakota,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.16 Hoeven: Administration's Stream Buffer Rule Doesn't Work for North Dakota Senator Will Work to Stop Final Rule Through CRA WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy Committee, today released the following statement in response to the Administration's final Stream Buffer Rule, which fails to account for differences in mining practices across the United States. The Administration's Stream Buffer Rule clearly won't work in North Dakota, said Hoeven. Instead of working with states to allow flexibility based on the different mining practices used across the country, the Administration has continued its one-size-fits all approach to the stream buffer rule. This will result in burdensome costs and job losses without any environmental benefits in states like North Dakota. We'll work with the new Administration and through the Congressional Review Act to stop the final rule. Like the proposed rule, the final rule is based primarily on mining practices used in the Appalachian region and does not properly take into account differences in mining techniques, land reclamation and geography throughout the country, such as the surface mining performed in North Dakota. Hoeven Efforts to Address the Stream Buffer Rule Earlier this year, Hoeven brought Janice Schneider, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management at the Interior Department, to North Dakota to show her firsthand the impact of the proposed Stream Buffer rule, which threatens thousands of jobs in 22 states, and to press for a states-first approach to the rule. The 2016 Interior Appropriations bill directs the Office of Surface Mining to work with states to ensure that water quality is protected while not adversely impacting jobs and the economy. The senator cosponsored bipartisan legislation to require the Secretary of the Interior to make publically available all scientific products and data relied on used to draft the new Stream Buffer Zone rule, or face delay and eventual withdrawal of the rule. The bill also prohibits the Interior Secretary from issuing a rule or determinations that needlessly duplicate or overlap with current environmental laws, such as the Clean Water Act, under the jurisdiction of other agencies and prevent duplicate regulations between federal agencies. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-manchin-states-first-coal-ash-recycling-legislation-passes-as-part-of-new-water-bill,Hoeven-Manchin States-First Coal Ash Recycling Legislation Passes as Part of New Water Bill,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.16 Hoeven-Manchin States-First Coal Ash Recycling Legislation Passes as Part of New Water Bill Senator Also Working to Advance Clean Coal Projects Like the Allam Cycle, Project Tundra BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable to outline coal ash recycling legislation he and Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) worked to pass as part of the new water development bill that Congress passed earlier this month. The legislation passed with bipartisan support and the backing of coal producing states because it enforces standards through state-led permit programs, rather than through costly and time-consuming lawsuits. Our legislation will make it easier for coal ash to be recycled into materials that have a wide range of safe and cost-effective applications, including in the construction of buildings, roads, bridges and other necessary infrastructure, Hoeven said. Both the North Dakota Heritage Center on the Capitol grounds in Bismarck and the Bismarck State College Energy Center of Excellence are constructed of recycled coal ash. Hoeven Coal Ash Recycling Legislation The coal ash recycling legislation, which is included in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act. is based on Hoeven's Improving Coal Combustion Residuals Regulation Act of 2016, a bill he introduced earlier this year with Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.). After a March hearing on the Hoeven-Manchin bill before the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, the senator worked with EPW Chairman Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) to add the bipartisan amendment to the water development and infrastructure legislation. The measure prevents costly litigation and, for the first time, creates an enforceable state permit program for the disposal of coal ash. The senator is also working to promote innovative clean coal technologies like the Allam Cycle and the Tundra Project, which will help to secure the future of both existing and new coal-fired electrical generation plants. The Allam Cycle The Allam Cycle is a new pilot and demonstration project being developed by Basin Electric and Allete Inc. to reduce CO2 emissions and increase efficiency in new coal-fired and natural gas power plants. The innovative technology captures CO2, a byproduct of burning coal, and uses it as a type of fuel itself. Rather than having to use energy to capture CO2, the Allam Cycle collects it, pressurizes it into a liquid and uses it to turn a turbine to generate electricity. That means it uses less energy and low emissions. When the power plant is done with the CO2, it can either be sequestered or sold off for industrial uses like enhanced oil recovery. Project Tundra Project Tundra aims to develop next-generation, advanced, full-plant scrubbing technologies to retrofit existing plants to capture CO2, which can then be sequestered or used in enhanced oil recovery, making the facilities viable into the future. The senator helped to formalize a partnership between Minnkota Power Cooperative, Allete Clean Energy, BNI Energy and the University of North Dakota's (UND) Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) for Project Tundra. Last summer, the senator arranged a meeting between North Dakota energy industry leaders and U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz to encourage the Energy Department to partner with the state's energy industry to develop and implement commercially-viable clean coal technologies. Hoeven and the energy leaders made the case for the Energy Department to support Project Tundra as well as the Allam Cycle pilot project to develop the new technologies. For a meeting handout, click here. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-meeting-today-with-standing-rock-sioux-tribal-chairman-david-archambault,Hoeven Statement on Meeting Today with Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Chairman David Archambault,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.16 Hoeven Statement on Meeting Today with Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Chairman David Archambault BISMARCK, N.D. -- Senator John Hoeven today issued this statement following a meeting with Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Chairman David Archambault: Today, Chairman Archambault and I met to discuss the Dakota Access Pipeline project and the ongoing protests in the area of construction. These protests have been very difficult for North Dakotans who live and work in the region, particularly for farmers and ranchers. They have also disrupted the lives of people who live and work in surrounding communities, and created great difficulties as well for state and local law enforcement officers, who have been very professional and dedicated to maintaining public safety. There has always been a good relationship between tribal and nontribal members in North Dakota. That relationship has been strained, however, by protesters who have come from around the country with a variety of agendas, and who have been willing to engage in violence and break the law. As a result, Chairman Archambault should work with other state leaders to get people to leave the illegal campsite on Army Corps of Engineers land. He should also join with us to call on the Obama administration to provide federal law enforcement personnel and resources to work with our state and local law enforcement professionals to ensure that any future protests are peaceful and within the law. The Dakota Access Pipeline can be built safely, protecting the tribe and all other downstream interests in accordance with the law and all applicable regulations. If the tribe still opposes the project, their concerns should be addressed through the court system, rather than through protests that impede or interfere with the lawful construction of the project and the rights of people who live in the area to get to work or attend school. We must all follow the rule of law for the safety of everyone and to protect everyone's rights. Our nation must be able to build new energy infrastructure, or we will be forced to rely on existing infrastructure, which is wearing out, making it less safe and less environmentally sound. We can work together to improve the permitting process going forward. As fellow North Dakotans both native and non-native we need to work together to restore our long-standing good relationship. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-water-infrastructure-law-will-benefit-north-dakota-manufacturers,CRAMER: Water Infrastructure Law Will Benefit North Dakota Manufacturers and Producers,2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer released this statement following President Obama’s signing of legislation today funding water infrastructure projects critical to the nation’s economic competitiveness. The Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, formerly known as the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), addresses projects at America’s harbors, locks, dams, flood protection and other water infrastructure. It contains language that allows the continued use of trailer homes around Lake Tschida in southwestern North Dakota and prevents significant cabin fee increase at three Bureau of Reclamation state reservoirs.  The new law also includes a provision, long supported by Cramer, empowering states to establish their own coal ash disposal program as long as it meets the standards established by the Environmental Protection Agency. “This law funds infrastructure projects needed for North Dakota’s manufacturers, farmers and ranchers to deliver their products to domestic and international markets on inland waterways and coastal ports. It also funds drinking water programs in small communities and research on new water safety technologies.  I am pleased this law also allows homeowners to remain at Lake Tschida and addresses unreasonable permit fee increases at Dickinson, Heart Butte and Jamestown reservoirs. This will enhance the enjoyment of our federal recreation areas in North Dakota.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/stream-protection-rule-is-last-attempt-to-kill-coal,Stream Protection Rule is Last Attempt to Kill Coal,2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here   Congressmen Kevin Cramer issued this statement following today’s pre-publication by the Department of the Interior Office of Surface Mining (OSM) of the Stream Protection Rule. Click here for more information. “This is the Obama Administration’s last attempt to kill the coal industry. Since the beginning of his first term, President Obama’s Department of the Interior has spent millions of taxpayer dollars to rewrite an already modern 2008 rule. This rule infringes on a state’s ability to manage their own successful coal reclamation programs. In fact, just two weeks ago the OSM reported that ‘North Dakota has an effective program with no issues.’ It’s well documented that states which actually implement these rules on the ground have been pushed aside by OSM. I encourage them to continue fighting this rule and I will work with my colleagues in Congress and President-elect Trump to prevent this rule through the Congressional Review Act.” Upon taking office, the Obama Administration began rewriting the 2008 Stream Buffer Zone Rule after an environmental group lawsuit despite that rule’s five years of environmental analysis and careful scientific consideration. Through Congressional oversight it was learned the Obama Administration has spent at least $10 million on the new rule purportedly based on “new science” not made freely available to the public. Additionally, states, which by statute are partners in carrying out the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA), have been “locked out of the rule and EIS development process,” according to the Interstate Mining Compact Commission. Despite Congressional direction in the Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations, OSM has not provided for meaningful cooperation with states regulating coal mining operations for more than 30 years. Meaningful state engagement is important because of the varying geology and hydrologic conditions across the country. On January 12, 2016, the House passed the STREAM Act, H.R. 1644, cosponsored by Cramer, to block this rule and increase transparency in the development of SMCRA regulations. The bill was not acted on in the Senate. Last May, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management Janice Schneider toured North Dakota mining and reclamation sites with OSM staff, industry, North Dakota’s Congressional delegation, and the North Dakota Public Service Commission. Cramer and others pressed her on pursuing genuine engagement with state regulators and asked why she felt the rule was necessary in North Dakota, to which she had no answer. As the final rule progressed to the Office of Management and Budget, Cramer spoke with Howard Shelanski, Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, about the rule’s impact on North Dakota and the entire energy industry. The Congressional Review Act provides special procedures for disapproving agency rules if approved by both houses of Congress and signed by the President. It’s estimated that final rules submitted to Congress on or after June 13, 2016, will be subject to this review when President Trump assumes office in 2017.    ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-extension-of-sanctions-on-iran,Hoeven Statement on Extension of Sanctions on Iran,2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.16 Hoeven Statement on Extension of Sanctions on Iran Senator Opposed Administration's Iran Nuclear Agreement WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today released the following statement following the enactment of the Iran Sanctions Extension Act, which extends sanctions on Iran through 2026. We are committed to our Middle Eastern allies, especially Israel, which is why I continue to support efforts to curtail Iran's attempts to destabilize the region. Sanctions remain one of the most effective ways to address Iranian belligerence. Congress originally passed legislation in 1996 requiring the President to sanction any entity that invests in Iran's energy sector. These sanctions would have expired this month if we had not acted. Early this month, the Senate voted 99-0 to pass an extension of these sanctions, ensuring that Iran continues to be penalized as long as they propagate terror. This builds on our continued opposition to formalizing relations with the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism. Last year the Administration and Iranian government reached an agreement to lift several financial sanctions not addressed by the sanctions we have extended. We subjected that agreement to Senate approval before it could go into effect, and last September, I joined a bipartisan majority of senators in voting to oppose the agreement. That vote was ultimately filibustered and, without Senate consent, the Administration implemented the agreement under an executive order. -###- WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today released the following statement following the enactment of the Iran Sanctions Extension Act, which extends sanctions on Iran through 2026. We are committed to our Middle Eastern allies, especially Israel, which is why I continue to support efforts to curtail Iran's attempts to destabilize the region. Sanctions remain one of the most effective ways to address Iranian belligerence. Congress originally passed legislation in 1996 requiring the President to sanction any entity that invests in Iran's energy sector. These sanctions would have expired this month if we had not acted. Early this month, the Senate voted 99-0 to pass an extension of these sanctions, ensuring that Iran continues to be penalized as long as they propagate terror. This builds on our continued opposition to formalizing relations with the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism. Last year the Administration and Iranian government reached an agreement to lift several financial sanctions not addressed by the sanctions we have extended. We subjected that agreement to Senate approval before it could go into effect, and last September, I joined a bipartisan majority of senators in voting to oppose the agreement. That vote was ultimately filibustered and, without Senate consent, the Administration implemented the agreement under an executive order. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-president-s-refusal-to-stand-up-against-known-enemies-once-again,CRAMER: Presidents Refusal to Stand Up Against Known Enemies Once Again Exposed in Refusal to Sign Iran Sanctions Bill,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer released the following statement in reaction to President Obama allowing the Iran Sanctions Extension Act to become law early this morning without his signature. The legislation extends for another 10 years sanctions against foreign companies investing in Iran’s energy sector and technology related to weapons of mass destruction. It ensures Congress is able to maintain pressure on Iran as the United States continues to abide by the Iran Nuclear Deal. While this legislation does not impose any new sanctions on Iran, it provides for the “snapback” of sanctions, should Iran violate the nuclear agreement. It passed the Senate by a 99 - 0 vote and the House of Representatives by a 419 – 1 vote. “I am pleased this legislation is now law, despite President Obama’s true allegiance. Near unanimous votes by the House and Senate weren’t  convincing enough for the President to back the obvious will of the majority of Americans. His refusal to sign this bill sends a clear message that he is unwilling to stand up to our enemies -- just like those Senate Democrats who refused to support the House in blocking the Iran Deal in the first place.  This is just one more reason why I look forward to the foreign policy of the incoming Trump Administration, which I know will give more support to our allies than our enemies.” #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-the-obama-administrations-refusal-to-send-additional-law-enforcement-help-for-dapl-protests,Hoeven Statement on the Obama Administration's Refusal to Send Additional Law Enforcement Help for DAPL Protests,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.16 Hoeven Statement on the Obama Administration's Refusal to Send Additional Law Enforcement Help for DAPL Protests WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Justice refused to provide Morton County with additional law enforcement personnel as they requested again earlier this week. The DOJ also notified the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation today that it will not approve an application for funding submitted under the Byrne Grant program, which is administered by the DOJ: The Obama administration again declined our request for both law enforcement personnel and funding to address the Dakota Access Pipeline protests. We have repeatedly requested federal law enforcement assistance to help state and local law enforcement, who have shown dedication and professionalism in working to keep the peace and protect people who live and work in the area of the protests. Further, they have denied assistance despite the fact that the Obama administration has prolonged the problem by refusing to approve the easement, which would allow the pipeline project to be completed. That's why we have already reached out to the next administration to provide assistance to state and local law enforcement to help them keep the peace, as well as to issue the easement so that construction can be completed. We have spoken with Vice President-Elect Mike Pence, Attorney General Nominee Jeff Sessions and the Trump transition team to secure this assistance, and we will work in Congress to secure funding as well. We are committed to doing all we can to resolve this problem, which has been very difficult for North Dakotans. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-working-to-support-comprehensive-efforts-to-prevent-and-treat-opioid-addiction,Hoeven Working to support Comprehensive Efforts to Prevent & Treat Opioid Addiction,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.16 Hoeven Working to support Comprehensive Efforts to Prevent & Treat Opioid Addiction Senator Meets with Fargo Blue Ribbon Commission, Outlines Opioid Funding in Cures Act, Legislation to Close Synthetic Drug Loophole FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today hosted a roundtable with the Fargo metro area's Blue Ribbon Commission on Addiction to outline his work to combat the growing issue of opioid abuse in North Dakota. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) identified the state as one of 14 that experienced a statistically significant increase in drug overdose deaths between 2013 and 2014, from 20 to 43, respectively, and the Fargo region has experienced 20 known overdose deaths this year alone. Hoeven heard from the commission on their work to develop a comprehensive response to the increase in opiate overdoses and deaths in the region and highlighted federal opportunities to advance local efforts to improve and expand prevention and treatment services, including: Opioid prevention and treatment funding included in the 21st Century Cures Act Hoeven's Illegal Synthetic Drug Safety Act of 2016 Expanded prevention and education efforts in the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act The influx of opioids into our communities has brought tremendous pain and tragedy for families in our state, Hoeven said. We are working to support a comprehensive approach, where our law enforcement, educators and health care providers, including those who attend to mental health and substance abuse, have the tools they need to prevent and treat addiction. Through measures such as the opioid funding in the Cures Act and my Illegal Synthetic Drug Safety Act, we can combat opioid abuse and save lives. A fact sheet on the legislation can be found here. 21st Century Cures Act The Cures Act, which Congress passed earlier this month, provides $1 billion over two years to supplement states' efforts to combat opioid addiction. The funding will be administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA). The agency issued the Funding Opportunity Announcement for the program yesterday, following inquiries by Hoeven's staff. The program details can be found here. The funds are provided to states using a formula based on the number of people who abuse or are dependent on opioids with unmet treatment needs and the number of drug poisoning deaths. North Dakota is allocated $2 million in first-year funds. The eligible applicant for the state is the Behavioral Health Division at the North Dakota Department of Human Services, and applications are due by February 17, 2017. Among other things, the funds can be used to: Identify effective, comprehensive strategies to prevent opioid abuse Improve prescription drug monitoring programs Implement evidence-based prevention activities Provide training for health care practitioners Expand access to health care services, such as substance abuse treatment programs Support innovative telehealth in rural and underserved areas Address the opioid abuse crisis through other public health-related activities At the same time, Hoeven has been in contact with the Region VIII Opioid Consultation Team at SAMHSA. This team provides consultation and technical assistance on efforts related to opioid addiction in a six-state region, which includes North Dakota, and helps to identify and coordinate federal, state and local resources to support these efforts. Hoeven is working to facilitate collaboration between the team and the local commission, and the chair of the team, SAMHSA Regional Administrator Dr. Charles Smith, has welcomed the opportunity to work with and assist the commission. Hoeven encouraged the commission members to work with the state and the consultation team in developing an application for the Cures Act funding. In addition, the Cures Act reauthorizes the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant and Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant, while also allowing states greater flexibility in administering the programs to meet local needs. North Dakota has received nearly $7 million from these programs since Fiscal Year 2015. Illegal Synthetic Drug Safety Act of 2016 This legislation, which Hoeven authored and introduced with Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), closes a loophole in current law that enables companies to circumvent the law and sell synthetic variations of drugs, like the powerful drug fentanyl, by labeling the products as not for human consumption. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) estimates that fentanyl, which is a controlled substance used as a painkiller, is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. Synthetic variants of fentanyl have been identified as the cause of many of the recent overdose deaths in the Fargo area. Hoeven said his legislation is one concrete step that can be taken to help cut off the influx of dangerous substances into the region. Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act Hoeven also supported the passage of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act in July. The bipartisan legislation will help combat the prescription opioid and heroin epidemic plaguing communities across the nation by expanding prevention efforts, supporting law enforcement, improving treatment of overdoses and enhancing access to treatment for drug addiction. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-wto-compliance-case-against-china-to-level-playing-field-for-nd-wheat-corn-producers,"Hoeven: WTO Compliance Case Against China to Level Playing Field for N.D. Wheat, Corn Producers",2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.16 Hoeven: WTO Compliance Case Against China to Level Playing Field for N.D. Wheat, Corn Producers WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven today said he fully backs U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Michael Froman bringing another compliance case against China in the World Trade Organization (WTO) for failing to meet market access obligations for American wheat, corn and rice. It's the second case the USTR has taken against China this year. In September, the United States filed a separate compliance case against China for over-subsidizing its domestic crops. In September, I offered my support to the USTR in its compliance case against China, along with a bipartisan group of my colleagues, Hoeven said. Now we find that China is engaging in other activities that put our farmers at an unfair disadvantage. Trade agreements are meant to level the playing field for all countries involved, but when one country, like China, provides its producers with high subsidies and blocks market access, it needs to be held accountable. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) estimates that China's tariff rate quotas (TRQ) for wheat, corn and rice were worth over $7 billion in 2015. Under WTO rules, these quotas are supposed to provide market access at lower tariff rates to U.S. commodities up to certain levels, but China is not living up to these market access commitments for wheat, corn and rice. If the TRQs had been fully used, China would have imported as much as $3.5 billion worth of additional crops last year alone. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-honored-to-be-considered-for-energy-post,CRAMER: Honored to be Considered for Energy Post,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer released this statement following today’s announcement by President-Elect Donald Trump he is nominating former Texas Governor Rick Perry to lead the Department of Energy: “I congratulate Governor Perry on his nomination to head the Department of Energy.  As a former governor of Texas, he understands the importance of energy in our nation.  It was an honor to be considered for this position, and I trust the judgement of President-Elect Trump as he assembles a world-class cabinet.  I look forward to continuing to champion the North Dakota brand and now the Trump Administration’s energy agenda in Congress.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-highlights-end-of-year-legislative-accomplishments-in-meeting-with-golden-kiwanis-club,Hoeven Highlights End-of-Year Legislative Accomplishments in Meeting with Golden Kiwanis Club,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.16 Hoeven Highlights End-of-Year Legislative Accomplishments in Meeting with Golden Kiwanis Club MINOT, N.D. Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today met with members of the Golden Kiwanis Club of Minot to highlight important provisions for North Dakota he worked to include in the recent year-end legislation Congress passed. We worked hard to pass legislation to support our military, combat the opioid epidemic and enable reservoir permit holders to stay on their land, Hoeven said. In the National Defense Authorization Act, we included measures to make Minot Air Force Base more secure by replacing UH-1N helicopters that provide security, and we funded improvements for B-52s stationed at the base and development for a new intercontinental ballistic missile. The 21st Century Cures Act authorizes $1 billion over two years to fight the opioid epidemic across our nation. We passed a Water Resources Development Act which helps North Dakota reservoir permit holders. In the year-end funding bill, we included provisions to give the Farm Service Agency additional loan authority to help farmers and we clarified the restart rule for truck drivers. Some of the provisions included in the end-of-year legislation Hoeven highlighted include: National Defense Authorization Act Authorizes $18 million for the Air Force to begin replacing the Huey helicopters that provides security for the intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) located around Minot Air Force Base Authorizes $114 million for research and development on a next generation ICBM to replace the existing Minuteman III Authorizes funds to continue upgrades to the B-52's internal weapons bay and authorization of new projects to modernize the B-52, which includes developing a new advanced radar system and equipping Line of Sight Tactical Data Link (TDL); currently the B-52 is the only combat aircraft without Line of Sight TDL Authorizes $95 million for research and development on a new nuclear cruise missile to replace the aging Air Launched Cruise Missile carried on the B-52 Authorizes an across-the-board pay raise of 2.1 percent for all servicemen and women 21st Century Cures Act Provides $1 billion over two years to help states combat opioid addiction and includes support for treatment and prevention activities Helps increase access to outpatient therapeutic services in rural hospitals including drug infusions, blood transfusions, outpatient psychiatric services, wound treatment and cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation services by maintaining the general supervision requirement for these services for calendar year 2016 Authorizes new funding for the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration Streamlines and modernizes the approval process for new drugs and medical devices Makes reforms to help ensure Americans who are struggling with mental health or substance abuse disorders can receive the care they need Water Resources Development Act Enables Lake Tschida homeowners to remain on their lots Limits fee increases for permittees on Lake Tschida, Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir Authorizes a states-first approach to coal-ash management and recycling Authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to carry out pilot projects to help prevent and mitigate ice jams, with a priority for the Upper Missouri River Basin Government Funding Legislation Provisions Provides FSA with sufficient loan authority to meet increased demand and ensure that farmers and ranchers continue to have access to capital Requires that the Department of Transportation follow the existing 34-hour restart rule for truck drivers -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-ndaa-strengthens-minot-air-force-base-missions,Hoeven: NDAA Strengthens Minot Air Force Base Missions,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.16 Hoeven: NDAA Strengthens Minot Air Force Base Missions Senator Worked to Secure Authorization for New Helicopters, Updates to ICBM and B-52 MINOT, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable meeting with Minot military and community leaders to outline provisions he worked to secure in the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that will support the missions at Minot Air Force Base (MAFB). The bill authorizes funding to begin replacing the Huey helicopters, research and develop the next generation of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM), continue upgrades and modernization to the B-52 bomber and develop a new nuclear cruise missile to carry on the B-52. Hoeven was joined by Minot Mayor Chuck Barney, Minot Chamber of Commerce President John MacMartin, 5th Bomb Wing Commander Colonel Matthew Brooks, 91st Missile Wing Commander Colonel Colin J. Connor, as well as members of Task Force 21 and the Minot Chamber Military Affairs Committee. The Defense Authorization legislation provides our troops with the resources they need to succeed in their missions. That includes strong provisions to update and improve our nuclear forces, said Hoeven. As home to two legs of our nuclear triad, these initiatives are particularly important to the missions at Minot Air Force Base. That's why we worked hard to secure funding to replace the Huey helicopters and to make important upgrades to the B-52 bomber and its cruise missile. Specifically, the bill includes: $18 million in authorized funding for the Air Force to begin replacing the UH-1N Huey helicopter that provides security for the intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) located around Minot Air Force Base $114 million authorized for research and development on a next generation ICBM to replace the existing Minuteman III Continuing upgrades to the B-52's internal weapons bay and authorizing new projects to modernize the B-52, which includes developing a new advanced radar system and equipping Line of Sight Tactical Data Link (TDL); currently the B-52 is the only combat aircraft without Line of Sight TDL $95 million authorized for research and development on a new nuclear cruise missile to replace the aging Air Launched Cruise Missile carried on the B-52 Congress passed NDAA late last week and sent the bill to the president to be signed into law. Hoeven today also led the Senate ICBM Coalition in calling on the next administration and Congress to support nuclear deterrence and support modernization of the nuclear triad, including replacing the existing land-based ICBM fleet. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-coalition-highlights-value-of-americas-nuclear-missiles,Senate Coalition Highlights Value of America's Nuclear Missiles,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.16 Senate Coalition Highlights Value of America's Nuclear Missiles Senators Call On Congress, Next Administration to Support ICBM Modernization WASHINGTON The Senate Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Coalition released a white paper today calling on the next administration and Congress to support the modernization of the missiles that form the land-based leg of the U.S. nuclear triad. The bipartisan Coalition, which includes senators from several states associated with the Air Force's ICBM mission, recommended that the next administration and Congress make nuclear deterrence the highest priority mission of the Department of Defense and support the modernization of the nuclear triad, including the replacement of the existing 1970s-era land-based ballistic missile fleet. The Coalition further recommended full funding for the Ground Based Strategic Deterrence (GBSD) program, which will produce a new ICBM before 2030. The full text of the white paper can be found here. This is a critical moment for our ICBM force, said Senator John Hoeven (R-ND), whose office authored the white paper. Nuclear threats are increasing around the world, and our existing ICBMs will not last forever. The Coalition is making a strong case to support the modernization of the ICBM force today so that it can continue to protect us for decades to come. As a new administration takes office, it absolutely should review major weapons systems to ensure that they are being maintained in the interest of national security, said Senator Mike Lee R-Utah. A strong and cost-efficient national security system starts with strategic deterrence, and I believe that the new administration will find a strong bipartisan consensus in Congress for modernizing our nuclear forces. To protect our national security, we need to reinforce the value of our intercontinental ballistic missiles with the president-elect and his staff, said Senator Heidi Heitkamp D-N.D.). As Defense Secretary Ash Carter said when he visited Minot Air Force Base in September, the nuclear deterrent at bases like Minot is the bedrock of our security and the highest priority mission of the Department of Defense. This bipartisan paper demonstrates how the next administration can bolster the credibility of our deterrent by robustly supporting the nuclear triad. It is clear that our ICBM's play a key role in the strategic defense of our country, U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., said. And it is critical that our ICBM's are modernized in order to ensure we are prepared to defend against potential threats that we could face from around the world. I urge the new administration to support the bipartisan effort to update this crucial nuclear weapon system that is already close to 50 years old. It's important we maintain a peace through strength strategy in this increasingly dangerous world, stated Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.). Our nuclear weapons are our most powerful deterrent and ensuring that they are modernized and capable of meeting the demands of 21st century warfare is essential to our national defense. Our nation's ICBM force plays a critical role in ensuring our country has an effective nuclear deterrent, said Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.). The new administration must be committed to strengthening and modernizing our nuclear arsenal. This will make sure Americans and our allies remain protected. ICBMs are this country's most effective deterrent and a pivotal component of our national security, said Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.). It is critical that the next administration work closely with Congress to modernize the nuclear triad and fully fund the Ground Based Strategic Deterrence program. At a time when our country is facing real threats from across the globe, making these important investments is a top priority. Our national security relies on an effective, up-to-date deterrent system, said Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah). The modernization of the ICBM force is a critical step towards ensuring our preparedness. When it comes to protecting our allies and the homeland, we mean business. In the white paper, ICBM Coalition members noted that the nation's triad of nuclear bombers, submarine-based missiles and land-based missiles has been very successful in deterring threats to the United States and its allies. They argue further that ICBMs remain critical to the success of the nuclear triad, given the rising threats from Russia, China, North Korea and elsewhere. This is the second white paper produced by the Senate ICBM Coalition. The Coalition previously authored a white paper in 2009 before Senate consideration of the New START agreement with Russia. Senators signing the white paper include John Hoeven (R-ND), Jon Tester (D-MT), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), John Barrasso (R-WY), Steve Daines (R-MT), Orrin Hatch (R-UT) and Mike Lee (R-UT). -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-hosts-roundtable-to-outline-legislation-enabling-lake-tschida-homeowners-to-remain-on-lots-limiting-fees-for-reservoirs-permits,"Hoeven Hosts Roundtable to Outline Legislation Enabling Lake Tschida Homeowners to Remain on Lots, Limiting Fees for Reservoirs Permits",2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.16 Hoeven Hosts Roundtable to Outline Legislation Enabling Lake Tschida Homeowners to Remain on Lots, Limiting Fees for Reservoirs Permits BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable with Lake Tschida homeowners to outline legislation he authored that enables them to remain on their lots, and limits fee increases for permittees on Lake Tschida, Patterson Lake and Jamestown Reservoir. The provisions were passed by Congress late Friday as part of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act. Hoeven was joined by Senator Heidi Heitkamp, who helped pass the legislation in the Senate, and Congressman Kevin Cramer, who worked to pass it in the House. Outdoor recreation is an important part of our state's heritage, including at Lake Tschida, Patterson Lake and Jamestown Reservoir, Hoeven said. That's why I worked to get support for our legislation that will allow people to continue to live and work, both seasonally and year-round, on these popular recreational areas. At Lake Tschida, we are allowing homeowners, who have made investments in good faith with approval from the Bureau of Reclamation, to stay on their lots and enjoy the improvements they have made. At all three reservoirs, we are providing some relief and more certainty for permit fee increases, which will allow people more time to plan and budget. Folks along these lakes will be able to enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing for years to come thanks to the provision Senator Hoeven and I worked on to make sure these lots remain affordable, said Heitkamp. Lake Patterson, Lake Tschida, and Jamestown Reservoir are valuable assets to our state, expanding opportunities for outdoor recreation, which is why we fought to make sure North Dakotans can continue to enjoy them. Enjoying the great outdoors is something we cherish in North Dakota, which is why one of my priorities in Congress is to ensure we're getting maximum use of our federal lands, said Cramer. Working to that end with the Senators and our colleagues, we were able to get these important provisions passed to ensure trailers would continue to be used at Lake Tschida and fees across Bureau of Reclamation facilities in North Dakota remain affordable. Hoeven Amendment Enables Lake Home Owners to Remain on Lake Tschida The Hoeven legislation enables owners with homes around Lake Tschida to stay on their lots. The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) has issued permits for homes to be located around the lake for decades, but the agency has notified owners that they will have to remove their lake homes after 2021. The Hoeven legislation allows the homes to remain on the land as long as they are sufficiently anchored to the ground for safety. The dam and reservoir are managed by the BOR and the recreation areas around the lake, which offer fishing, boating, camping, and swimming, are managed by the local Tri-Cities Joint Job Development Authority. Hoeven Amendment Limits Fee Increases for permit holders on Lake Tschida, Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir The Bureau of Reclamation was set to almost double fees at Lake Tschida and more than double fees at Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir. The Hoeven language limits the total fee increase to no more than 33 percent over five years for all three. You can find a fact sheet on the new legislation and how it works here. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-the-death-of-judge-myron-bright,Hoeven Statement on the Death of Judge Myron Bright,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.13.16 Hoeven Statement on the Death of Judge Myron Bright WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued this statement following the death of Judge Myron H. Bright, who served on the U.S. Court Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. Judge Bright served his country for half a century, both in the military during World War II and on the bench, gaining the respect and admiration of people, both regionally and nationally. His judicial roles and awards are too numerous to list, but suffice to say he had an impact on the federal judiciary and the lives of thousands for five decades. Mikey and I extend our condolences to Judge Bright's family and friends and hope his long, distinguished career will provide comfort at his passing. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-congress-passes-legislation-to-fund-government-ensure-fsa-loan-funding-for-producers-clarify-hours-of-service-rule-for-truckers,"Hoeven: Congress Passes Legislation to Fund Government, Ensure FSA Loan Funding for Producers, Clarify Hours-of-Service Rule for Truckers",2016-12-12,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.16 Hoeven: Congress Passes Legislation to Fund Government, Ensure FSA Loan Funding for Producers, Clarify Hours-of-Service Rule for Truckers WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that legislation approved by Congress today to fund the government includes provisions to help farmers and ranchers access Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans and to clarify the hours-of-service regulation for truck drivers. The provisions were approved as part of legislation to continue funding the government at the current budget cap levels through April 28. Funding for Farm Service Agency (FSA) Loan Programs Due to low commodity prices and cash flow issues, farmers across the nation have been increasingly relying on the FSA direct and guaranteed loan programs for temporary assistance. These programs are being utilized considerably more than in past years, and program funds have been mostly depleted. The legislation provides FSA with sufficient loan authority to meet the increased demand and ensure that farmers and ranchers continue to have access to capital. These FSA loan programs exist to help our farmers and ranchers weather low prices, said Hoeven. This provision will help ensure that our producers have access to the capital they need to continue their operations. With today's low commodity prices, this is an important tool to help our farmers and ranchers through these tough times. Hours-of-Service Regulation for Truck Drivers The legislation requires that the Department of Transportation (DOT) follow the existing 34-hour restart rule for truck drivers. The administration issued new proposed rest requirements, which Congress subsequently required DOT to prove effective. The language clarifies that the existing 34-hour restart rule applies, should the DOT study fail to meet criteria set by Congress. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-honors-north-dakota-national-guard-battalion-families-at-send-off,"Hoeven Honors North Dakota National Guard Battalion, Families at Send-Off",2016-12-12,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.16 Hoeven Honors North Dakota National Guard Battalion, Families at Send-Off 136th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion Will Deploy Early Next Year to Afghanistan for One Year DEVILS LAKE, N.D. Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Committee, today joined state, community and North Dakota National Guard leaders in a send-off ceremony for the 136th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion based in Devils Lake. The unit is preparing for a yearlong deployment to Afghanistan beginning early next year. The men and women in the North Dakota National Guard do outstanding work, which is why the 136th has been called on to provide logistical support in Afghanistan, Hoeven said. We are thankful for the sacrifices these soldiers and their families are making during this deployment, and we know they will do an excellent job. Our thoughts and prayers go with them. The 136th will specifically be working to provide command and control structure for logistical units in Afghanistan. The unit is comprised of individuals from more than twenty-eight communities across North Dakota, Minnesota and Kentucky. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-legislation-in-new-wrda-bill-enables-lake-tschida-homes-to-remain-on-their-lots-limits-fees-for-reservoirs-permits,"Hoeven Legislation in New WRDA Bill Enables Lake Tschida Homes to Remain on Their Lots, Limits Fees for Reservoirs Permits",2016-12-12,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.16 Hoeven Legislation in New WRDA Bill Enables Lake Tschida Homes to Remain on Their Lots, Limits Fees for Reservoirs Permits Also Includes Hoeven Initiative for States First Coal Ash Management and Ice Jam Prevention, Mitigation WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Senate and House have reconciled their versions of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) and it has now passed both chambers. The House passed the measure with provisions introduced by Hoeven on Thursday, and it now goes to the president's desk for signature. The Hoeven legislation: Enables Lake Tschida homeowners to remain on their lots. Limits Fee Increases for permittees on Lake Tschida, Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir Authorizes a states-first approach to coal-ash management and recycling Authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to carry out pilot projects to help prevent and mitigate ice jams, with a priority for the Upper Missouri River Basin Hoeven Amendment Enables Lake Home Owners to Remain on Lake Tschida The Hoeven amendment enables owners with homes around Lake Tschida to stay on their lots. The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) has issued permits for homes to be located around the lake for decades, but the agency has notified owners that they will have to remove their homes after 2021. The Hoeven legislation allows the homes to remain on the land as long as they are sufficiently anchored to the ground for safety. The dam and reservoir are managed by the BOR and the recreation areas around the lake, which offer fishing, boating, camping, and swimming, are managed by the local Tri-Cities Joint Job Development Authority. Over the decades, many residents around the lake have invested thousands of dollars in their homes and improvements on the lots they pay fees to occupy, Hoeven said. We worked very hard to ensure that they can continue to use their homes and enjoy the lake as they have for years. Hoeven Amendment Limits Fee Increases for permit holders on Lake Tschida, Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir The BOR had proposed increasing fees to twice the cost of current fees for permits on the three reservoirs; the Hoeven legislation prevents that increase and limits the total fee increase to no more than 33 percent over 5 years. North Dakotans have enjoyed swimming, boating and fishing on the reservoirs for generations, and many have been year-round residents for decades Hoeven said. They can now continue to enjoy their homes because they will remain affordable and accessible for decades to come. Hoeven Coal Ash Recycling Legislation Also Included in the House Bill WRDA includes legislation based on Hoeven's Improving Coal Combustion Residuals Regulation Act of 2016 that he introduced with Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.). After a March hearing on the Hoeven-Manchin bill before the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, the senator worked with EPW Chairman Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) to add a bipartisan amendment to the WRDA legislation. This coal ash measure prevents costly litigation and, for the first time, creates an enforceable state permit program for the disposal of coal ash. This is a double win in terms of reduced energy costs for consumers and improved environmental stewardship, Hoeven said. Coal ash has a wide range of safe and cost-effective applications, including in the construction of buildings, roads, bridges and other infrastructure. Our bill is a bipartisan compromise that enforces standards through state-led permit programs, rather than through costly lawsuits. Both the North Dakota Heritage Center on the Capitol grounds in Bismarck and the Bismarck State College Energy Center of Excellence are constructed of recycled coal ash. Other Important Provisions in WRDA That Benefit North Dakota include measures that help with flood control and expedite requests for surplus Missouri River water: In 2009, the Missouri River was jammed with ice floes, which caused damaging floods in south Bismarck. Then Governor Hoeven contracted with a demolition company to dislodge the ice jams using explosives. WRDA authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to carry out pilot projects to address ice jam prevention and mitigation, with a priority for the Upper Missouri River Basin. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-continuing-resolution-funds-government-through-april-addresses,"CRAMER: Continuing Resolution Funds Government Through April, Addresses Farm Loan Backlog",2016-12-08,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer announced  the Fiscal Year 2017 Continuing Resolution  passed by the House of Representatives today includes language giving the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) more authority over funding loan programs. The $1.07 trillion bill continues funding the government through April 28, maintaining funding at the current budget cap levels. “This bill prevents a government shutdown on Friday, and includes provisions to continue essential government operations, including national defense,” said Cramer.    The bill’s USDA loan provision allows the agency to make loans to farmers and ranchers in proportion to demand, ensuring it can offer credit to producers when demand for loans peak.  “This will prevent a recurrence of the situation encountered this year where USDA faced a loan application backlog when it ran out of funds for its direct and guaranteed operating loans,” he said. “Our farmers and producers need to know they can move into this next production year having loan options available to them, should they need them, and they almost certainly will need them. Once we get past this we have got to work on the next farm bill modernizing the loan program so it’s set up to meet contemporary agriculture issues and demands for capital.” The legislation also includes a provision relating to hours of service rules for truck drivers.  It requires the Department of Transportation (DOT) to follow the existing 34-hour restart rule for truckers to ensure continuity in federal rest regulations.  The Obama Administration issued new rest requirements that are not yet final, pending a Congressionally mandated report from DOT demonstrating the new rule's effectiveness by meeting certain benchmarks.  Language in the bill also streamlines the process for confirming General James Mattis as the Secretary of Defense in the Trump Administration. The bill expedites consideration of legislation providing an exception to the prohibition against appointing a Secretary of Defense who was on active duty within the last seven years.  Mattis retired in 2013. Highlights of the FY2017 Continuing Resolution include: ·         Provides funding for the federal government through April 28, 2017 at a rate of $1.070 trillion ·         Includes total defense funding level is $8 billion higher than the current Continuing Resolution $5.8 billion for Department of Defense Overseas Contingency Operations $4.3 billion for State Department/USAID Overseas Contingency Operations, which is below the President’s request Funding to support counterterrorism, counter Russian aggression, and provide embassy security ·         Includes $4.1 billion to help families and communities rebuild and recover from recent flooding o   $1.8 billion for Community Development Block Grants o   $1.025 billion to repair damaged Corps of Engineers projects o   $1 billion for emergency relief through the Federal Highway Administration o   $206 million for Department of Agriculture watershed protection programs o   $74.7 million to repair damaged NASA facilities ·      Supports the 21st Century Cures Act with $872 million in funding - $20 million for the Food and Drug Administration, $352 million for the National Institutes of Health, and $500 million for states to continue to respond to the opioid epidemic ·        Provides $170 million in discretionary (fully offset) spending for states dealing with drinking water emergencies, like the current situation in Flint, Michigan ·        Continues policies contained in existing appropriations law, including pro-life riders and prohibitions on transfers from Guantanamo Bay or its closure ·        Includes a provision to provide $45 million, fully offset, for continued health care benefits for certain retired miners under the United Mine Workers Association 1993 Benefit Plan. This is necessary to prevent the loss of health care coverage for these miners and their families, scheduled to expire on Dec. 31. ·        Does not include an anomaly providing funding for the resettlement of Syrian refugees ·        Provides additional funding, if needed, for the housing and care of Unaccompanied Alien Children (UAC) after February 1, 2017. This will allow the new President to decide on obligation of funds.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-leads-letter-to-canadian-government-on-super-bowl-ads-infringing,Cramer Leads Letter to Canadian Government on Super Bowl Ads Infringing on U.S. Trade Rights,2016-12-08,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressmen Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) and Brian Higgins (D-N.Y.), co-chairmen of the House Northern Border Caucus, along with Caucus members Congressman Chris Collins (R-N.Y.) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.), are urging Canadian officials to prevent the implementation of an arbitrary regulation targeting the annual broadcast of the Super Bowl.  In a letter sent to the Canadian government today, they wrote the inability to show Canadian ads during the Super Bowl would harm the ability of the National Football League (NFL) to protect the value of its programming in Canada. This violates, they wrote, Canada’s trade obligations under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to provide key intellectual property protections to U.S. copyright owners. “The United States maintains a close relationship with our northern neighbor, one that is built on a mutual respect for our trade laws,” said Cramer.  “Unfortunately, in this instance, Canadian regulators are interfering with U.S. copyright protections given to all American businesses.  This rule established by the Canadian government discriminates against an American company and sets a dangerous precedent.  The Super Bowl is one of the world’s most televised international broadcasts, and each country must respect America’s intellectual property rights laws in order to watch it.”  The order issued by Canada’s broadcast regulator singles out the Super Bowl for disparate treatment while all other similarly situated content continues to enjoy the benefit of a Canadian regulatory policy in place for more than 40 years. The letter said this order undermines the contractual rights between a U.S. company, the NFL,  and its Canadian licensee, Bell Media, and creates serious – and unexpected – uncertainty in the marketplace for both. ‘ The Super Bowl is the most watched television program in Canada, capturing an estimated 9 million average viewers annually. Cramer is North Dakota’s at-large Congressman, and is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.  The House Northern Border Caucus consists of members who represent districts along the Canadian border.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-water-infrastructure-bill-addresses-concerns-of-state-cabin,CRAMER: Water Infrastructure Bill Addresses Concerns of State Cabin Owners,2016-12-08,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Here to View Congressman Cramer’s Floor Debate WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer debated in support of language in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act preventing significant cabin fee increases at three state reservoirs and maintaining the use of trailer homes at Lake Tschida in southwestern North Dakota.  The bill passed the House of Representatives today. “This issue of allowing continued use of trailer homes around Lake Tschida has been going on for years,” said Cramer. “The requirements in this provision in the bill will increase safety while supporting existing investments and continued recreation at the Lake.” The bill also addresses looming fee increases for cabins and trailers at the three North Dakota Bureau of Reclamation reservoirs, Heart Butte, Jamestown, and Dickinson. “Because market rent surveys weren’t conducted for a number of years, surveys completed last year indicated fees should be increased anywhere from 91 to 232 percent at these locations. My constituents couldn’t bear such significant increases,” said Cramer.   Language in the bill limits these specific increases to no more than 33 percent over the next five years. He said the Bureau has committed to conducting another market rent survey in five years to help keep fees relevant to the marketplace and increases at a reasonable pace so owners can afford to continue to enjoy these recreation areas.    The WIIN bill, S. 612, addresses America’s harbors, locks, dams, flood protection, and other water infrastructure critical to the nation.  Formerly called the Water Resources Development Act, Cramer said the bill is important for America’s economic competitiveness. “Many of North Dakota’s agricultural and other products use inland waterways and coastal ports for shipment,” said Cramer. “Maintaining and improving that transportation infrastructure is as crucial as good highways and railroads to North Dakota producers moving their products to domestic and international markets.” The bill includes sections similar to the Improving Coal Combustion Residuals Regulations Act, H.R. 1734, Cramer cosponsored and the House passed on July 22, 2015.  The legislation empowers states to establish their own coal ash disposal program as long as it meets the standards established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  “The regulation of coal ash disposal has been debated for decades and fortunately for those of us in North Dakota over that time period we’ve had modern standards and facilities,” said Cramer.  “While this legislative approach isn’t perfect, it’s better than the EPA’s proposal which leaves too many opportunities for extreme environmental groups to replace regulations based on sound science with their agenda of shutting down the coal industry.” The bill also includes provisions to empower small and economically disadvantaged communities to improve drinking water services through changes to the Safe Drinking Water Act and additional authorized funding.  Research on innovative water technologies is authorized and a clearinghouse of public information on cost-effectiveness of alternative drinking water delivery systems will be created. Other highlights of the bill include: •          Reduces the inventory of water resources projects no longer needed and maintains a return to the two-year cycle of considering Water Resources Development Acts. •          Assigns a coordinator and principal approving officer for all Army Corps unmanned aircraft systems. •          Requires information sharing and reporting on the Army Corps tribal consultation process.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-congress-passes-national-defense-authorization-act,Hoeven: Congress Passes National Defense Authorization Act,2016-12-08,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.16 Hoeven: Congress Passes National Defense Authorization Act Bill Approves Key Priorities for North Dakota and the Nation WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that Congress has passed the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which approves the nation's military programs. The legislation includes key provisions that will benefit North Dakota's bases and missions. Passing the National Defense Authorization Act is an important step because this legislation authorizes our nation's military programs, Hoeven said. This means that we will continue key programs like the North Dakota National Guard's missions in Fargo, nuclear missions at Minot Air Force Base and the Global Hawk mission at Grand Forks. We passed the Military Construction appropriations bill in September, and now with the passing of this authorization act, we're working to pass the Defense appropriations bill to fully fund and fully authorize our military and its operations. The NDAA passed today is a reconciliation of the House and Senate versions and will now go to the President for his signature. The Senate had originally passed its version of the bill in June. Provisions that will benefit North Dakota include: Full authorization of the RQ-4 Global Hawk program, which includes the Block 20 and Block 40 fleets based at Grand Forks Air Force Base $18 million in authorized funding for the Air Force to begin replacing the UH-1N Huey helicopter that provides security for the intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) located around Minot Air Force Base $114 million authorized for research and development on a next generation ICBM to replace the existing Minuteman III Continuing upgrades to the B-52's internal weapons bay and authorizing new projects to modernize the B-52, which includes developing a new advanced radar system and equipping Line of Sight Tactical Data Link (TDL); currently the B-52 is the only combat aircraft without Line of Sight TDL $95 million authorized for research and development on a new nuclear cruise missile to replace the aging Air Launched Cruise Missile carried on the B-52 The bill also authorizes the following key provisions for our Armed Services and national security: Authorizes an across-the-board pay raise of 2.1 percent for all servicemen and women. Ensures Guantanamo detainees will not be transferred to the U.S. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-senate-air-force-caucus-members-discuss-priorities-with-senior-members-of-air-force,Hoeven: Senate Air Force Caucus Members Discuss Priorities with Senior Members of Air Force,2016-12-08,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.16 Hoeven: Senate Air Force Caucus Members Discuss Priorities with Senior Members of Air Force WASHINGTON Members of the Senate Air Force Caucus met with U.S. Air Force leaders at the caucus' biannual breakfast in Washington to discuss upcoming priorities and challenges of the Air Force. Senators Hoeven, John Boozman (R-AR), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Jon Tester (D-MT) are leaders of the Senate Air Force Caucus. Chief of Staff of the Air Force General David Goldfein; Vice Chief General Steven Wilson and Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force James Cody were among the senior Air Force leaders at the breakfast. The session afforded Members the opportunity to talk about a wide range of topics, from modernization and manning issues to the future of cyber operations and budgetary challenges. Our Air Force is second to none, owing to strong leadership and the dedication of the men and women who wear the uniform, said Hoeven. I'm proud to co-chair the Senate Air Force Caucus and help build a strong relationship between the Senate and Air Force leaders. This is essential to ensure we have a modern, technologically superior Air Force now and into the future. National security must be a top priority. To ensure our Air Force personnel have the resources needed to accomplish their missions Congress and the Air Force must maintain an open dialogue. I'm proud to be a leader of the Senate Air Force Caucus and serve as a voice for the brave men and women who serve our country in uniform and protect us every day, Senator John Boozman said. Our men and women in uniform work hard to protect our country and keep American families safe, and I'm proud to work with the Senate Air Force Caucus to support them, Senator Heidi Heitkamp said. In the U.S. Senate, I've pushed for tough, smart national security strategies to strengthen Air Force bases in North Dakota and beyond. Airmen and women make valuable contributions to our communities each day in addition to their lasting contributions to our national security. Our Air Force has been engaged in combat operations for over 25 years, the average age of our aircraft is at an all-time high, readiness rates are at all-time lows, and costs to sustain legacy aircraft are increasing, Senator Jim Inhofe said. Our Air Force has suffered through eight years of budget, procurement, development and personnel cuts. It is time to grow, rebuild and modernize our Air Force and I look forward to working with my fellow Senators on this caucus and the United States Air Force to achieve these goals. I thank Air Force leaders for taking time out of their day to discuss steps we can take to make sure our Air Force has every tool it needs to be successful, said Senator Mike Rounds. From critical missions being conducted at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota to important aerospace research being done to assure U.S. air superiority, the Air Force plays an important role in our long-term defense strategy. As a member of the Senate Armed Forces Committee and the Senate Air Force Caucus, I remain committed to fully supporting our Air Force. ""Our Air Force plays a unique and unparalleled role in ensuring our national security, Senator Jon Tester said. The Airmen at Malmstrom and around the world ensure our freedoms are protected and our families are safe. I am proud to co-chair the Air Force Caucus, which helps ensure these brave men and women have the resources and support they need to keep this country and its citizens safe. U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), John Hoeven (R-ND) and Jon Tester (D-MT) are leaders of the Senate Air Force Caucus. The bipartisan group includes 49 members and oversees issues impacting the U.S. Air Force. The caucus sponsors specialized briefings, base visits and outreach opportunities with Air Force stakeholders throughout the year. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-corps-transfer-of-public-land-to-interior-department-in-trust-for-tribe,Hoeven Statement on Corps' Transfer of Public Land to Interior Department in Trust for Tribe,2016-12-08,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.16 Hoeven Statement on Corps' Transfer of Public Land to Interior Department in Trust for Tribe WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after his office was informed that the Army Corps of Engineers has transferred lands around Lake Sakakawea to be held in trust by the Department of Interior for the Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Berthold Reservation: We are concerned that the Corps and Department of the Interior did not have agreements in place to protect access and all beneficial uses around the lake before transferring public land to the Interior Department in trust for the Three Affiliated Tribes. We have been very clear that access agreements should be in place before any transfer occurs. In fact, the last time the Corps took public comments and held public meetings in North Dakota regarding the transfer was a decade ago. There were significant concerns about the plan then, including concerns raised by every member of North Dakota's congressional delegation and governor, and there continue to be concerns about the transfer now, which I along with Congressman Kevin Cramer and Governor Jack Dalrymple expressed again to the Corps, most recently in April of this year. Despite these concerns, however, the Corps has proceeded with the transfer. We have made it clear to both the Corps and the Interior Department that they need to address the access concerns of local stakeholders, and that if they don't, we will pursue legislation, either through the authorization or appropriations process, to compel them to do so. Specifically, we must have assurances that North Dakota citizens, including landowners who currently have lake access, will continue to have public access to the lake without charges or fees if the land is transferred. This is an important concern that has been raised again and again by landowners, sportsmen, county commissions, North Dakota Game and Fish officials, law enforcement and cabin owners, all of whom have an interest in a resource that North Dakotans, including tribal members, have enjoyed for decades. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/house-passes-hoeven-legislation-to-help-homeowners-on-lake-tschida-and-other-reservoirs,House Passes Hoeven Legislation to Help Homeowners on Lake Tschida and Other Reservoirs,2016-12-08,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.08.16 House Passes Hoeven Legislation to Help Homeowners on Lake Tschida and Other Reservoirs Also Includes Hoeven Initiative for States First Coal Ash Management and Recycling WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today said he was pleases the House has passed his legislation enabling Lake Tschida homeowners to remain on their lots. The measure also caps fee increases for permittees on Lake Tschida, Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir. The Senate has already passed the measure and sent it to the House, but the legislation will now return to the Senate for a final vote. Hoeven Amendment Enables Lake Home Owners to Remain on Lake Tschida The Hoeven amendment enables owners with homes around Lake Tschida to stay on their lots. The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) has issued permits for homes to be located around the lake for decades, but the agency has notified owners that they will have to remove their homes after 2021. The Hoeven legislation allows the homes to remain on the land as long as they are sufficiently anchored to the ground for safety. The dam and reservoir are managed by the BOR and the recreation areas around the lake, which offer fishing, boating, camping, and swimming, are managed by the local Tri-Cities Joint Job Development Authority. Over the decades, many residents around the lake have invested thousands of dollars in their homes and improvements on the lots they pay fees to occupy, Hoeven said. We worked very hard to ensure that they can continue to use their homes and enjoy the lake as they have for years. Hoeven Amendment Limits Fee Increases for permit holders on Lake Tschida, Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir The BOR had proposed increasing permit fees to twice the cost of current fees for permits on the three reservoirs; the Hoeven legislation prevents that increase and limits the total fee increase to no more than 33 percent over 5 years. North Dakotans have enjoyed swimming, boating and fishing on the reservoirs for generations, and many have been year-round residents for decades Hoeven said. They can now continue to enjoy their homes because they will remain affordable and accessible for decades to come. Hoeven Coal Ash Recycling Legislation Also Included in the House Bill WRDA includes legislation based on Hoeven's Improving Coal Combustion Residuals Regulation Act of 2016 that he introduced with Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.). After a March hearing on the Hoeven-Manchin bill before the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, the senator worked with EPW Chairman Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) to add a bipartisan amendment to the WRDA legislation. This coal ash measure prevents costly litigation and, for the first time, creates an enforceable state permit program for the disposal of coal ash. This is a double win in terms of reduced energy costs for consumers and improved environmental stewardship, Hoeven said. Coal ash has a wide range of safe and cost-effective applications, including in the construction of buildings, roads, bridges and other infrastructure. Our bill is a bipartisan compromise that enforces standards through state-led permit programs, rather than through costly lawsuits. Both the North Dakota Heritage Center on the Capitol grounds in Bismarck and the Bismarck State College Energy Center of Excellence are constructed of recycled coal ash. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-land-grant-agriculture-scholarship-bill-will-train-new-farmers,"CRAMER: Land-Grant Agriculture Scholarship Bill Will Train New Farmers, Reduce Unemployment",2016-12-07,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Click  Here to View Video of Congressman Cramer’s Testimony View Congressman Scott’s Testimony Here View Congressman Scott’s Opening Prayer Here WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer testified at a House Agriculture Committee hearing today on a bipartisan bill on which he is the lead Republican cosponsor to establish scholarship programs for agriculture education at the historically African-American 1890 Land-Grant universities.  The bill, H.R. 6020, the Funding for Student Scholarships for the 1890 Land-Grant African-American Colleges and Universities Act, was introduced by Congressman David Scott of Georgia. It would award $1 million in federal grants to each of the 19 schools established under the 1890 Land-Grant African-American Colleges and Universities Act for scholarships to African-American students who commit to pursuing careers in agriculture. While not subject to the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Committee, Cramer also voiced support at the hearing for a companion bill Scott introduced and he is co-sponsoring.  H.R. 6021 urges the Department of Labor to work with businesses, labor unions and contractors to actively recruit, hire and provide on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs in infrastructure-related fields for African-American men between the ages of 18 to 39. The hearing  began with a prayer led by Scott. Cramer testified his interest in this legislation stems from his friendship with Scott, a Democrat from the Atlanta area. “We have a shared mission of seeking pragmatic solutions to fix our nation’s most pressing economic and social crises. In this case, the crisis is the higher-than-average unemployment rate in the African-American community, specifically among young African-American men, which is around 40 percent nationally and can be as high as 50 percent in some areas. These bills provide a targeted two-prong approach to improve America’s employment crisis. It increases the number of young people receiving a good education in career fields in need of labor, such as agriculture. And, it encourages the building trades to invest in the wealth of human capital and potential which currently sits on the sidelines untapped.” Cramer said the seeds of H.R. 6020 and H.R. 6021 were planted two years ago during debate on the Keystone XL Pipeline Act, which he introduced. “Congressman Scott and I worked together on an amendment to address the national crisis of the high unemployment rate among young African-American men through on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs relating to construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.” They proposed an amendment to use existing apprenticeship programs to urge labor unions and contractors to actively recruit and train African-American men between the ages of 18 to 37 for jobs related to the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline. “Both Congressman Scott and I saw this as a unique opportunity to not only help spur the hiring of underemployed blue-collar American workers who are ready and eager to rebuild the nation’s infrastructure, but also as a strategy to help alleviate a social crisis without the use of additional federal resources or mandates.” Although their amendment was not included in the final Keystone XL Pipeline bill, Cramer said he and Scott have worked together seeking solutions to the national crisis of underemployed blue-collar American workers. H.R. 6020 also addresses the aging farmer and producer population in the United States.  “Looking at the agriculture industry alone, the number of farmers in the United States has declined over 4 percent in recent years, with the median age of an American farmer now being 60 years old,” Cramer said. “These alarming statistics indicate a new strategy is required to better sync our country’s education system with the needs and demands of a 21st Century workforce.” Cramer said feeding a hungry world requires having smart people in agriculture. “There is no social program more successful than a good education leading to a good-paying job.  In North Dakota, I have witnessed economic power being unleashed when the education system and private industry work in tandem to meet the needs of our state.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-pearl-harbor-75th-anniversary-a-time-to-honor-world-war-ii,CRAMER: Pearl Harbor 75th Anniversary a Time to Honor World War II Veterans,2016-12-07,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer issued the following statement on today’s commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor:   “Today is the 75th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor – an event that thrust the United States into the greatest war the world has ever seen. The bombing of the headquarters of the U.S. Pacific Fleet that day forever changed the course of world history. More than 3,500 Americans were killed or wounded on that horrific day of infamy. The further we get from December 7, 1941, the greater our respect grows for the veterans of the Greatest Generation who went to war and defeated the forces of evil. Only 620,000 of the 16 million men and women who served our nation during that war are still alive. Today we honor and remember these heroes for their steely-eyed determination and supreme sacrifice in fighting the war and winning the peace.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-calls-on-protesters-to-leave-urges-respect-for-the-rule-of-law-and-fact-based-solution-to-dapl,"Hoeven Calls on Protesters to Leave, Urges Respect for the Rule of Law and Fact-Based Solution to DAPL",2016-12-07,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.16 Hoeven Calls on Protesters to Leave, Urges Respect for the Rule of Law and Fact-Based Solution to DAPL Senator Speaks on Senate Floor to Address Steps Forward WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today spoke on the Senate floor to call on protesters to leave the site and spare North Dakotans who live and work in the protest area further disruption in their lives. The senator also emphasized the need to respect the rule of law and take a fact-based approach to the Dakota Access Pipeline situation in moving forward. The senator also called for more federal law enforcement assistance and personnel to help state and local law enforcement in North Dakota. On the Need for Protesters to Leave Corps Land However, now that the Obama administration has made its decision, protesters should move from their unlawful site on Army Corps of Engineers land. Even Standing Rock Sioux Chairman David Archambault has finally said that protestors need to leave and return home, and the Obama Administration needs to do the same. The administration needs to call on protesters to leave their illegal site, as well. So it is time it is past time for the protestors to stand down and to recognize that the Courts and the next Administration will resolve the issue. On the Rule of Law and the Need for a Fact-Based Solution Moving Forward Unfortunately, the latest Obama administration decision fails to follow the rule of law, it fails to resolve the issue, and it perpetuates an extremely difficult situation for North Dakotans. Furthermore, it is estimated that over five thousand protestors are still unlawfully gathered on federal Corps of Engineers' lands in our state. They are there in direct violation of the Army Corps' December 5th eviction notice as well as an evacuation order from North Dakota's governor. The protesters need to follow the law, just like everyone else. The company developed the route for Dakota Access Pipeline beginning in 2014. The current path will run parallel to the existing Northern Border Gas Pipeline, which was placed into service in 1982, as well as an existing high-voltage electric transmission line. So it's already in an existing energy right-of-way corridor. It is important to recognize that this pipeline is not a unique or unusual infrastructure project. There are more than 38,410 crude oil pipeline river and waterbody crossings in the United States, and more than 1,000 in North Dakota. These crossings range from rivers, streams, and lakes, to ponds, canals, and ditches. Also, it's important to understand that the oil is already being transported across the river on rail and by trucks by road across bridges. Additionally, the pipeline company has modified the route on its own 140 times in North Dakota alone to avoid any important or cultural resources. This project should be decided on the merits and in accordance with the law. Failure to do so will cast new uncertainty on all future infrastructure projects from pipelines that carry oil, gas, and other liquids to transmission lines carrying both traditional and renewable energy. If companies and individuals cannot rely on a system that follows the rule of law, nobody will risk making future investments in our country's vital infrastructure. That will make our nation less safe, less secure, and less competitive. Think about it: If we can't build new infrastructure, then we'll continue to use old infrastructure, which is less safe and less environmentally secure. To avoid this kind of situation in the future the kind of standoff we have with the Dakota Access Pipeline we need to focus on ways to improve the regulatory process. We need to improve the process to help ensure that all stakeholders engage and all people's voices are heard in a timely way. When companies make large investments in costly infrastructure projects they need the regulatory certainty to know they can complete the project. This should be done prospectively not retroactively looking for ways to better streamline procedures, reduce duplicative hurdles, and improve methods for public input. This pipeline can be built safely and include necessary protections for both the Tribe and all others downstream. The fact is, our country needs energy and we can't have it without energy infrastructure pipelines, transmission lines, roads, rail, and bridges to move both traditional and renewable energy from where it's produced to where it's consumed. Move it both safely and efficiently. Let's all work together to make that happen. On the Need to for More Federal Law Enforcement Resources and Personnel The men and women in law enforcement are doing their best to protect everyone, including the protestors. We owe our law enforcement a debt of gratitude for their diligence, dedication, and professionalism. But North Dakota's law enforcement's resources are severely strained. I have repeatedly called on the U.S. Department of Justice to provide additional funding and law enforcement officers to ensure public safety. Our state has requested federal assistance and was assured by the Attorney General that we would be given expedited consideration; but that has not been the case. Our Byrne Grant application for federal assistance has still not be approved by the Attorney General. I will continue to call on the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of the Interior, and the Corps to provide additional federal resources, including funding and law enforcement personnel, to assist our state and local law enforcement officers and ensure public safety. A complete transcript of the senator's remarks can be found here. A video of speech can be found on YouTube here. A map of pipelines already existing in the U.S. can be found here. A map of the route of the Dakota Access Pipeline can be found here. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-congress-passes-21st-century-cures-act,Hoeven: Congress Passes 21st Century Cures Act,2016-12-07,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.16 Hoeven: Congress Passes 21st Century Cures Act Legislation Includes Funding to Combat Opioid Epidemic, Helps Increase Access to Outpatient Services at Critical Access Hospitals, Reforms and Reauthorizes Mental Health Programs WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that Congress has passed the 21st Century Cures Act, legislation to accelerate the discovery, development and delivery of new cures and treatments. The bill, which is fully paid for: Authorizes new funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Makes reforms to streamline and modernize the approval process for new drugs and medical devices. The 21st Century Cures Act is a bipartisan effort to help the scientific community develop cures and treatments for some of the most serious ailments we face today, such as cancer and Alzheimer's disease, Hoeven said. At the same time, this legislation addresses many other important priorities for North Dakota. This includes funding to help states treat and prevent opioid addiction, regulatory relief for Critical Access Hospitals to increase access to important outpatient services, such as psychiatric care, cardiac rehabilitation and injury treatment, in rural areas and flexibility in federal mental health and substance abuse block grants to better meet local needs for these services. Combating the Opioid Epidemic The Cures Act provides $1 billion over two years to supplement states' efforts to combat opioid addiction. The funds can support treatment and prevention activities, such as prescription drug monitoring programs, training health care providers and expanding access to opioid treatment activities. In addition to today's legislation, Hoeven authored and introduced the Illegal Synthetic Drug Safety Act of 2016 with Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), which closes a loophole in current law that enables companies to circumvent the law and sell synthetic variations of drugs, like the powerful drug fentanyl, by labeling the products as not for human consumption. The senator also supported the passage of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act. This bipartisan bill expands prevention efforts, supports law enforcement, improves treatment of overdoses and enhances access to treatment for drug addiction. Providing Regulatory Relief for Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) The Cures Act includes a provision that helps increase access to outpatient therapeutic services in rural hospitals, including drug infusions, blood transfusions, outpatient psychiatric services, wound treatment and cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation services, by maintaining the general supervision requirement for these services for calendar year 2016. In 2009, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) moved to require the direct supervision of a physician for these services, a policy that is overly burdensome for small hospitals and ignores the low-risk nature of the procedures. The general supervision standard would be made permanent by the Protecting Access to Rural Therapy Services (PARTS) Act, a bipartisan bill that Hoeven has cosponsored. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and the Rural Health Caucus, Hoeven works to support rural health programs that benefit CAHs, including the Rural Hospital Flexibility Grants and Rural Health Outreach Grants. Earlier this year, the senator also successfully intervened on behalf of Jamestown Regional Medical Center with Health and Human Services (HHS) Acting Deputy Secretary Mary Wakefield to ensure the center would retain its CAH designation. Reforming Mental Health and Substance Abuse Programs The Cures Act makes reforms to help ensure Americans who are struggling with mental health or substance abuse disorders can receive the care they need. The bill reauthorizes the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant and Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant, while also allowing the states greater flexibility in administering the programs to meet local needs. North Dakota has received nearly $7 million from these programs since Fiscal Year 2015. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-heitkamp-get-commitment-from-commander-of-northcom-to-visit-grand-forks-air-force-base,"Hoeven, Heitkamp Get Commitment from Commander of NORTHCOM to Visit Grand Forks Air Force Base",2016-12-07,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.16 Hoeven, Heitkamp Get Commitment from Commander of NORTHCOM to Visit Grand Forks Air Force Base Senators Also Push Role in Arctic Mission for Grand Forks WASHINGTON Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) today met with U.S. Air Force (USAF) General Lori Robinson, leader of the North American Aerospace Defense Command and Commander, U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM), headquartered in Colorado. Gen. Robinson, at Hoeven's and Heitkamp's request, agreed to visit Grand Forks Air Force Base and review activities at the base. Hoeven and Heitkamp also discussed NORTHCOM's operations in the Arctic region. The senators highlighted how the RQ-4 Global Hawk mission at Grand Forks Air Force Base could contribute to NORTHCOM's Arctic mission. It is important that General Robinson come to Grand Forks to see firsthand what is happening at the base, including the work with the Global Hawk, Hoeven and Heitkamp said. The Global Hawk's unique capabilities to gather information over a broad area and fly long distances make it an ideal aircraft to greatly contribute to NORTHCOM's activities in the Arctic. Grand Forks Air Force Base is also strategically located in proximity to the Arctic, making the base uniquely qualified to support the Arctic mission, which is increasingly important to our nation's security. Simply put, the Global Hawk can help increase our awareness of activity in this region, and it is already strategically based to provide immediate assistance. Grand Forks Air Force Base is closer to some parts of the Arctic than even Alaska. Increased activity in the Arctic region, including more activity by Russia, has necessitated American activity and surveillance to ensure safety and stability. For the past several years, NORTHCOM has been working with the Canadian Joint Operations Command to coordinate operations, including domain awareness, emergency response and training activities. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-prescribed-burn-bill-encourages-cooperation-communication-with,"CRAMER: Prescribed Burn Bill Encourages Cooperation, Communication With Forest Service and Landowners",2016-12-06,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer supported a bill that passed the House of Representatives Monday setting guidelines for prescribed burns.    S.3395, the Prescribed Burn Approval Act of 2016, passed the Senate Nov. 17.  Cramer was an original co-sponsor of the House version of the bill, H.R.6029, which was introduced by Rep. Kristi Noem of South Dakota. It now goes to the President for his signature.   This bill requires collaboration between the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service and local officials when initiating prescribed burns, planned fires ignited intentionally for management of forest, prairie or farmland.  The bill prohibits the burns when there is a fire danger on nearby land in the county.    “It’s common sense for the Forest Service to communicate and collaborate with local officials and nearby landowners before starting prescribed fires,” said Cramer. “This legislation could prevent fires intended for land management from getting out of control and causing damage to private property.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-veterans-bills-improve-broadband-access-and-healthcare-services,CRAMER: Veterans Bills Improve Broadband Access and Healthcare Services,2016-12-06,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer co-sponsored two bills passed by the House of Representatives today initiating programs to improve broadband access and healthcare services for veterans.  H.R. 6394, the Improving Broadband Access for Veterans Act of 2016, requires the Federal Communications Commission to submit to Congress a report on promoting broadband internet access service for veterans. It originated in the Energy and Commerce Committee, which Cramer is a member.  This bill addresses the need for broadband access for the 1.4 million veterans living below the federal poverty level or in rural areas who are less likely to have broadband access. “Veterans living in rural areas are especially impacted, since these areas often take longer to get services,” said Cramer. “In our technology-driven economy, we must do all we can to help veterans have broadband access to apply for jobs, seek further education, access important records and stay in touch with family and friends.” H.R. 4352, the Faster Care for Veterans Act of 2016 brings self-scheduling technology used in the private sector to online appointment scheduling for Veterans Administration (VA) medical appointments in at least three Veterans Integrated Service Networks. “It’s time to bring more efficient technology to VA medical facilities,” said Cramer. “This self-scheduling technology has been successful in the private sector to reduce the number of missed or canceled appointments. This will give veterans a better experience with their health care and save money at VA centers.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-corps-awards-first-contract-for-permanent-flood-protection-calls-corps-award-big-step-forward-for-regional-flood-control,"Hoeven: Corps Awards First Contract for Permanent Flood Protection, Calls Corps Award ""Big Step"" Forward for Regional Flood Control",2016-12-06,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.16 Hoeven: Corps Awards First Contract for Permanent Flood Protection, Calls Corps Award ""Big Step"" Forward for Regional Flood Control Work Continues to Address Minnesota, Upstream Concerns WASHINGTON - Senator John Hoeven announced today that the Corps of Engineers has awarded its first federal contract for permanent flood protection for the Red River Valley. The Corps awarded $46 million for construction of an inlet structure that will control the flow of water into a diversion channel. Work on the inlet structure is expected to be completed in 2020. Today's contract is a big step toward permanent flood protection for the entire region, Hoeven said. The snowstorm currently moving through North Dakota is a reminder that too much moisture at the wrong time can cause significant flooding in the spring. We cannot settle for emergency measures. We must be committed to building comprehensive, permanent flood protection even as we work to address concerns from the State of Minnesota and upstream interests in the project. Hoeven worked to secure the funding, as well as permission to begin construction, as a member of the Senate Energy and Water Appropriations Committee. Hoeven also worked to get authorization for permanent flood protection in the Red River Valley in the 2014 water resources bill. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-meets-with-vp-elect-pence-ag-nominee-sessions-northwest-division-commander-spellmon-on-dapl,"Hoeven Meets with VP-Elect Pence, A.G. Nominee Sessions, Northwest Division Commander Spellmon on DAPL",2016-12-06,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.16 Hoeven Meets with VP-Elect Pence, A.G. Nominee Sessions, Northwest Division Commander Spellmon on DAPL Senator Asks for Their Help to Resolve Issue WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven today spoke at the U.S. Capitol with Vice President-Elect Mike Pence and Attorney General Nominee Senator Jeff Sessions to brief them on the Dakota Access Pipeline project and request their help. The senator also asked them to support sending additional resources and personnel to North Dakota to assist law enforcement with maintaining public safety. This situation needs to be resolved, Hoeven said. By its inaction, the Obama administration has prolonged problem, making life more difficult for everyone involved. That's why I am speaking with the new administration to protect people and property and bring the protests to a peaceful end. Also, earlier in the day, Hoeven met again with the Northwest Division Commander of the Army Corps of Engineers Major General Scott Spellmon to press for a resolution to the Dakota Access Pipeline issue. The senator asked the general to work with him to secure more federal law enforcement resources and funding to address unlawful protesters. Following meetings Hoeven had with the Trump transition team, President-Elect Trump last week expressed his support for the project as well as for providing federal assistance to North Dakota, including additional resources and law enforcement personnel. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-receives-air-force-distinguished-public-service-award,Hoeven Receives Air Force Distinguished Public Service Award,2016-12-06,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.16 Hoeven Receives Air Force Distinguished Public Service Award Senator is Co-Chair of the Senate Air Force Caucus WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, co-chair of the Senate Air Force Caucus and a member of the Senate Appropriations Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Committee, today received the U.S. Air Force's Distinguished Public Service Award presented by U.S. Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James. The award is in recognition of Hoeven's work to support the Air Force, its airmen and their families during his time in the Senate. I am honored to receive this award, Hoeven said. The men and women in our Air Force work tirelessly to protect our freedoms and advance American priorities throughout the world. We will continue our work to ensure they have the tools they need to keep our nation safe. During the presentation ceremony, the following statement was read: Senator Hoeven has exhibited extraordinary leadership and vision that has ensured that America's Air Force remains the preeminent air, space and cyberspace force in the world. As co-chair of the Senate Air Force Caucus, Senator Hoeven worked tirelessly to promote Air Force priorities and ensure a shared understanding between senior Air Force leaders and his fellow Senators. Moreover, his support to a myriad of other operational and quality-of-life improvements clearly demonstrates his dedication to the men and women of our air force. Senator Hoeven's outstanding, career-long contributions have ensured an enduring heritage and unlimited horizons for the United States Air Force. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-nearly-25-million-dot-grant-to-fund-transportation-research-and-education-at-ndsu,Hoeven Announces Nearly $2.5 Million DOT Grant to Fund Transportation Research and Education at NDSU,2016-12-05,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.05.16 Hoeven Announces Nearly $2.5 Million DOT Grant to Fund Transportation Research and Education at NDSU WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, who serves on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded $2,470,600 to North Dakota State University. The funds are made available through DOT's University Transportation Centers (UTC) program and will be used to advance state-of-the art transportation research and invest in programs to develop new professionals in transportation fields. We need to invest in our infrastructure in order to create a vibrant and diverse economy, Hoeven said. This means funding research to find practical and innovative solutions to transportation challenges. NDSU is a world-class research institution and is leading the Mountain-Plains Consortium of eight regional universities working to advance transportation initiatives. Today's funds will support NDSU's and the consortium's work and enable them to continue to break new ground as they advance transportation solutions. The Mountain-Plains Consortium (MPC), led by NDSU, focuses on safe, mobile and sustainable passenger and freight transportation and has conducted projects on transportation operations, low-cost safety enhancements, high-risk rural roads and work zone safety. The MPC is the UTC Region 8 Transportation Center and is comprised of Colorado State University, South Dakota State University, University of Colorado, Denver, University of Denver (Colorado), University of Utah, University of Wyoming and Utah State University. Hoeven supports infrastructure investment and research and voted for the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act Congress passed last December. The FAST Act authorized more than $377 million in funding over five years for the UTC program, with more than $72 million in grants being awarded this year. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-attorney-general-loretta-lynch-needs-to-provide-action-not-just-words,"Hoeven: Attorney General Loretta Lynch Needs to Provide Action, Not Just Words",2016-12-05,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.05.16 Hoeven: Attorney General Loretta Lynch Needs to Provide Action, Not Just Words WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement in response to the discussion U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch had with Morton County Sheriff Kyle Kirchmeier today regarding his request for federal law enforcement assistance to deal with violent protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline project, as well as the attorney general news release issued later in the day: U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch is not working with the North Dakota delegation to address violent protests in Morton County, contrary to her claim. Subsequent to her conversation with Sheriff Kirchmeier, she issued a release asserting she is working with the delegation and the state to find a resolution. This is not the case. I want to be clear: we have repeatedly called on the Department of Justice and other federal agencies to provide both funding and more federal law enforcement officers to assist state and local law enforcement. In fact, right now, the Justice Department has an application submitted by the state for Byrne Grant funding, which is administered by Attorney General Lynch, to assist state and local law enforcement in containing the violence. She needs to approve that request without delay to protect people and property. In addition, she needs to provide more actual law enforcement personnel, rather than only advisors. Area residents are contending with a difficult and volatile situation, and the attorney general needs to act appropriately. To end this situation permanently, it is essential that the Obama administration approve the long overdue easement on Corps land necessary to complete the pipeline. Now that the Trump administration has made clear it supports the project, the Obama administration's ongoing delay is clearly prolonging a difficult and volatile situation. At this point there is no further justification to delay a decision and subject North Dakotans in the protest area to additional weeks of hardship. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/obamas-denial-of-easement-violates-the-rule-of-law,Obama's Denial of Easement Violates the Rule of Law,2016-12-05,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.05.16 Obama's Denial of Easement Violates the Rule of Law WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement in response to the Army Corps of Engineers' announcement that the Obama administration will refuse to grant an easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline project: The Obama administration's refusal to issue an easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline violates the rule of law and fails to resolve the issue. Instead, it passes the decision off to the next administration, which has already indicated it will approve the easement, and in the meantime perpetuates a difficult situation for North Dakotans. Protesters should move from their unlawful site now that the Obama administration has made its decision. By staying on the site, the protesters subject residents in the area to additional weeks of disruption and hardship. The reality is that the company has observed all proper procedures and met all environmental standards required by four states and the Corps itself. Further, refusing the easement has ramifications over the long term; if companies and individuals cannot rely on a system that follows the rule of law, nobody will risk making future investments in our country's vital infrastructure. That will make our nation vulnerable and less secure. Our state, local and federal law enforcement officials have acted with professionalism and diligence to maintain peace and order under very difficult circumstances, but their resources are strained and they need help. Following today's announcement by the Corps, it is incumbent on the administration to provide funding and law enforcement resources to help maintain public safety. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-corps-decision-denying-pipeline-permit-sends-chilling-signal-for,CRAMER: Corps Decision Denying Pipeline Permit Sends Chilling Signal for Infrastructure Development,2016-12-04,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer issued this statement following today’s announcement by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers it is denying the permit for the Dakota Access Pipeline to complete the construction of the pipeline under Lake Oahe:   “I hoped even a lawless president wouldn’t continue to ignore the rule of law. However, it was becoming increasingly clear he was punting this issue down the road.  Today’s unfortunate decision sends a very chilling signal to others who want to build infrastructure in this country. Roads, bridges, transmission lines, pipelines, wind farms and water lines will be very difficult, if not impossible, to build when criminal behavior is rewarded this way. In my conversation with Assistant Secretary of the Army Jo-Ellen Darcy today, she was unable to give any legal reasons for the decision and could not answer any questions about rerouting the pipeline. I’m encouraged we will restore law and order next month when we get a President who will not thumb his nose at the rule of law. I feel badly for the Corps of Engineers because of the diligent work it did on this project, only to have their Commander-in-Chief throw them under the bus. But he’s been doing that to the military for eight years, so why not one more time on his way out the door.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-criticizes-obama-administration-praises-law-enforcement-in-floor,"Cramer Criticizes Obama Administration, Praises Law Enforcement in Floor Speech on Dakota Access Pipeline Protest",2016-12-02,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Dec. 2, 2016 Contact: 202-578-9428 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer criticized the Obama Administration for improperly meddling in the Dakota Access Pipeline protest and praised law enforcement for protecting North Dakota citizens in a speech on floor of the House of Representatives Thursday night. He also read into the Congressional Record a resolution by the North Dakota Veterans Coordinating Council condemning military veterans who participate in the pipeline protests. “You can’t encourage illegal behavior and then wonder why there is violence,”  said Cramer in his criticism of the Obama Administration’s efforts to block the legally permitted pipeline project. “The rule of law matters.  We cannot allow lawless mobs to obstruct projects that have met all legal requirements to proceed.” Cramer praised the work of law enforcement in protecting the citizens of North Dakota. “I am one of many North Dakotans who are tired of what once began as a peaceful protest and is now a full-fledged riot,” he said.  “It’s time for the bad actors, celebrities and political extremists to leave our state.”    Watch the full speech here. View the full speech transcript here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-national-defense-authorization-act-restores-troop-cuts-increases,"CRAMER: National Defense Authorization Act Restores Troop Cuts, Increases Soldier Pay, Funds ICBMs",2016-12-02,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer joined the majority in the House of Representatives today in passing legislation restoring troop cuts, increasing soldier pay,  and funding the intercontinental ballistic missiles at Minot Air Force Base.  The House passed the Conference Report to S. 2943, the Senate version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2017. The legislation had been stalled during months of filibustering by Senate Democrats after the House passed its version of the bill in May. The Senate vote on this bill is scheduled for next week.   The bill authorizes and prioritizes funding for the Department of Defense and military activities and construction, and sets military personnel strengths.  “The primary responsibility of Congress is to provide for the common defense of our country, and this bill includes those necessary resources,” said Cramer.   “It also provides for the well-being of our military personnel and their families, authorizing the largest troop salary raise in six years.” The legislation provides $619 billion for the base defense budget and war-related overseas operations.  It eliminates 110 general and admiral positions and reverses the President’s drawdown of troops by adding 1,000 sailors, 3,000 Marines, 4,000 airmen and 1,000 active-duty Army soldiers, in addition to 15,000 who were set to be cut. “America’s armed forces defend our nation in a world of ever-changing threats, and North Dakota continues to be crucial in that defense,” Cramer said. Of particular interest to North Dakota are the following provisions in the bill: Prohibits funds from being expended to reduce, or prepare to reduce the responsiveness or alert level of U.S. intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM), which is a key benefit of the nuclear triad in deterring an enemy strike. Continues to fund ICBM fuze modernization and supports the Air Force proposal to structure the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) program, to create a follow-on to the Minuteman III ICBM, as an integrated system consisting of the missiles, launch facilities, launch control centers, communications, and related infrastructure and equipment.  “The current GBSD program at Minot Air Force Base has served the country’s defense well and benefited North Dakota’s economy,” said Cramer. “However, to ensure these assets remain effective they must be modernized. Doing it in Minot is the best deal for the American taxpayer.”     Supports the new B-21 Long Range Strike Bomber to upgrade the current bomber fleet. “This includes the B-52s stationed at Minot Air Force Base, which ensure viability against current and emerging threats,” Cramer said. Makes no changes to out-of-pocket costs for current force or retirees in the Tricare Military Health Care Insurance Plan.   Prohibits a new round of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) The legislation also: Extends special pay and bonus authorities for nuclear officers Includes a provision to deal with the California Guard bonus recoupment ordeal, shifting the burden of proof for accusations of fraud or misuse to the Department of Defense instead of individual soldiers. Continues to prohibit transferring detainees at the Guantanamo Bay military prison",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-iran-sanctions-legislation-will-help-prevent-iran-from-funding-terrorism,Hoeven: Iran Sanctions Legislation Will Help Prevent Iran from Funding Terrorism,2016-12-01,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.01.16 Hoeven: Iran Sanctions Legislation Will Help Prevent Iran from Funding Terrorism Senator Opposed Nuclear Agreement Administration Reached With Iran Last Year WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Senate has passed H.R. 6297, the Iran Sanctions Extension Act (ISEA), which extends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 through 2026. The sanctions would have expired this year if an extension had not been passed. The House passed the extension last week, and it will now go to the President to be signed. Iran has a long history of not only sponsoring terrorism, but also of acting belligerently toward the United States and our allies in the Middle East, Hoeven said. We are committed to our allies, especially Israel, and we will not turn a blind eye to Iran's actions. Today we extended sanctions against anyone wanting to invest in Iran's energy sector. These sanctions should remain in place as long as Iran is a state sponsor of terrorism and destabilizes the Middle East region. The Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 requires the President to sanction any entity that invests in Iran's energy sector. The bill is designed to penalize Iran for sponsoring terrorism and make it difficult for Iran to obtain technology that could be used to develop or proliferate weapons of mass destruction. The nuclear agreement reached between the Obama administration and the Iranian government last year lifted several financial sanctions on Iran in return for an Iranian commitment to slow its nuclear program. However, the original sanctions on energy sector investment imposed under the Iran Sanctions Act remain in place. Last May, the Senate voted 98-1 to subject the Administration's Iran nuclear agreement to Senate approval before it could go into effect. Last September, Hoeven and a bipartisan majority of senators voted to oppose the deal, but that vote was filibustered and the Administration implemented the agreement under an executive order without Senate consent. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-trump-expresses-support-for-dakota-access-pipeline,Hoeven: Trump Expresses Support for Dakota Access Pipeline,2016-12-01,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.01.16 Hoeven: Trump Expresses Support for Dakota Access Pipeline WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement in response to President-elect Trump's expression of support for the Dakota Access Pipeline Project: The Obama administration should approve the easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline without delay, and also provide assistance to state and local law enforcement. Because the Obama administration continues to delay that decision, we have met with President-elect Trump's transition team on a range of issues, including the need for the new president to issue an easement for the project. Today, Mr. Trump expressed his support for the Dakota Access Pipeline, which has met or exceeded all environmental standards set forth by four states and the Army Corps of Engineers. Also, it is important to know that the new administration will work to help us grow and diversify our energy economy and build the energy infrastructure necessary to move it from where it is produced to where it is needed. The result will be more jobs, a more vibrant economy and affordable energy for the American people. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/cures,CRAMER: 21st Century Cures Act a Game Changer for Medical Research and Innovation,2016-11-30,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Nov. 30, 2016 Contact: 202-578-9428 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer described  the 21st  Century Cures Act passed by the House of Representatives today as landmark legislation transforming how the United States treats disease and funds medical research.  The bill – which is expected to pass the Senate next week – originated in the House Energy and Commerce Committee where Cramer is a member.  The bill also includes H.R. 2646, the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, which is one of the most significant reforms to the mental health system in more than a decade.  Cramer was a cosponsor of H.R. 2646.  “All of us have suffered the pain of losing a loved one to a rare or deadly disease,” said Cramer. “All too often, a child is robbed of a parent, or a spouse falls ill one day only to discover they have an incurable disease.  These stories of loved ones we have lost are the motivators behind 21st Century Cures.  I simply cannot overstate enough how this legislation is going to be a game changer.  ‘Cures’ will remove the regulatory shackles from our scientists and allow the American medical industry to flourish.  It also protects American medical and biomedical jobs and brings new hope for patients and their families who have run out of options.” Cramer said North Dakota hospital and health care professionals have reached out to him about their support of provisions in the bill that recognize new hospital outpatient departments, prevent the enforcement of the direct supervision regulations for outpatient therapeutic services at small rural hospitals, fund opioid abuse crisis programs, adjust socioeconomic status in the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program and extend for five years the Rural Hospital Demonstration Program. In advancing the legislation, Cramer said Energy and Commerce Committee members worked with more than 300 patient groups, as well as individual patients, researchers, academics, health professionals, innovators, the Food and Drug Administration, National Institutes of Health and the White House.  “There are 10,000 known diseases, 7,000 which are rare, and treatments are available for only 500,” he said.  “The 21st Century Cures Act will allow scientists and regulators to fully embrace advances in research and bridge the gap between the number of diseases and available treatments.” Highlights of the 21st Century Cures Act include: Catalyzes Cutting-Edge Research and personalized Drug Development Authorizes innovation prize competitions to advance biomedical science for diseases that are serious and represent a significant burden. (Section 2002) Establishes the Precision Medicine Initiative to help researchers develop medicines tailored to individuals, rather than one-size-fits-all treatments. (Section 2011) Provides opportunities for new researchers and promotes earlier research independence. (Section 2021) Supports high-risk, high-reward research that has the potential to transform the scientific field. (Section 2036)  Expedites the development and review of drugs for subgroups of rare disease patients by authorizing FDA to rely on data submitted in previously approved applications involving similar gene targeting technology. (Section 3012) Reauthorizes the pediatric priority review voucher program incentivizing the development of drugs for rare pediatric diseases. (Section 3013) Modernizes Clinical Trials and Evidence Development Directs FDA to provide clarity to drug developers about incorporating novel clinical trial designs into drug development. (Section 3021) Supports the utilization of real-world evidence in regulatory decision-making. (Section 3022) Harmonizes various regulations protecting patients in clinical trials to avoid duplication and unnecessary delays that researchers face on a daily basis. (Section 3023) Authorizes FDA to rely upon qualified data summaries to support the approval of supplemental applications. (Section 3031) Establishes an alternative approval pathway for sorely needed antimicrobial drugs intended for limited patient populations. (Section 3042) Brings FDA into the 21st Century Removes the silos at FDA by transitioning the agency towards a disease-centric approach. (Section 3073) Codifies a structured framework at FDA for the submission, review, and qualification of biomarkers that can be used to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a product earlier in the process. (Section 3011) Fosters development and utilization of incredibly promising approaches to regenerative medicine. (Sections 3033 - 3036) Reforms the flawed combination product review process to provide certainty to manufacturers developing these complex therapies and technologies. (Section 3038) Provides long-overdue clarification regarding how medical product manufacturers can discuss the value of therapies and technologies with insurers and formulary committees. (Section 3037) Improves Medical Device Review Process and Reduces Unnecessary Regulation Empowers FDA to apply efficient and flexible approaches to expedite the development and review of new medical technologies like the breakthrough path for drugs that Congress made law four years ago. (Section 3051) Streamlines medical device and diagnostic regulations and ensures FDA uses the least burdensome approaches necessary. (Sections 3052-3059) Exempts certain software and personal health apps from FDA regulation. (Section 3060) Empowers Patients to Participate in Research and Development Activities Ensures that patients can voluntarily provide hospitals and research institutions authorization to use their personal health data for future research purposes. (Section 2063) Puts patients at the center of the drug development and FDA review process, requiring the FDA to routinely incorporate patient input and experiences into their regulatory decision-making. (Sections 3001-3004) Incentivizes the Development of Medical Counter Measures and Vaccines  Establishes a priority review voucher program that encourages the development of drugs and vaccines to protect Americans against agents that present a national security threat, like a bioterror attack. (Section 3086) Provides current and potential vaccine manufacturers with more predictable CDC timeframes. (Section 3091-3093) Fosters Interoperable Health Records Expedites the interoperability of electronic health record systems to help make good on the $30 billion taxpayer investment and benefit patients, providers, and researchers. (Sections 4003-4006)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-10-million-in-federal-funding-for-und-to-test-commercially-viable-co2-storage-technologies,Hoeven Announces $10 Million in Federal Funding for UND to Test Commercially-Viable CO2 Storage Technologies,2016-11-30,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.16 Hoeven Announces $10 Million in Federal Funding for UND to Test Commercially-Viable CO2 Storage Technologies WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded two grants totaling $10 million to the Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) at the University of North Dakota (UND). The funds are made available through the DOE's Carbon Storage Assurance Facility Enterprise (CarbonSAFE) initiative and will be used to study the feasibility of commercially-viable CO2 storage projects in North Dakota and Nebraska. For years, North Dakota has been a leader in developing technologies for the next generation of coal-fired power plants, Hoeven said. These efforts not only help us to continue producing affordable energy with better environmental stewardship, but they also help create good-paying jobs in our state's energy industry. Today's awards are the result of those years of work by the EERC, the Plains CO2 Reduction Partnership and others and will help to continue the advancement of commercially-viable methods for reducing emissions. As a member of the Senate Energy Committee and Energy Appropriations Subcommittee, Hoeven has worked to advance the state's energy priorities, including clean coal technologies and research into carbon capture and sequestration (CCS). Hoeven said today's funding will complement such efforts in North Dakota, such as Project Tundra, a project to retrofit existing power plants for CCS. To further this work, the senator helped to pass the Energy Policy Modernization Act. The Senate bill would authorize $610 million annually for a new Coal Technology Program to advance large-scale CCS demonstration projects and is currently in conference committee. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-nearly-2-million-in-federal-funding-to-support-home-visiting-program,Hoeven Announces Nearly $2 Million in Federal Funding to Support Home Visiting Program,2016-11-30,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.16 Hoeven Announces Nearly $2 Million in Federal Funding to Support Home Visiting Program WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) has awarded a $1,960,193 grant to Prevent Child Abuse ND in Bismarck. The funds will be used to support the organization's Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program. This program provides education and resources to help families identify their children's needs and supports families' overall well-being. Today's funding will help families meet their goals in providing for their children, Hoeven said. Prevent Child Abuse ND provides a valuable service to our state in their support of families and children. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-speaks-on-senate-floor-to-address-misconceptions-about-the-dakota-access-pipeline-project,Hoeven Speaks on Senate Floor to Address Misconceptions About the Dakota Access Pipeline Project,2016-11-30,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.16 Hoeven Speaks on Senate Floor to Address Misconceptions About the Dakota Access Pipeline Project WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today spoke on the Senate floor to address misperceptions about the Dakota Access Pipeline project. The senator outlined the project and the often violent protests that have occurred in recent months, as well as law enforcement's professional response. On Putting the Project in Perspective To put this issue into broader context, the Congressional Research Service estimates there are 38,410 [existing] crude oil pipeline river and waterbody crossings in the United States, including 1,079 in North Dakota. These crossings range from rivers, streams, and lakes, to ponds, canals, and ditches. On Court Challenges and Consultation with the Tribe Twice challenged and twice upheld including by the Obama administration's own appointees the federal courts found that the Army Corps had followed the appropriate process, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe was properly consulted, and the project could lawfully proceed. In total, the Army Corps held 389 meetings, conferred with more than 55 tribes, and conducted a 1,261-page environmental assessment, before finding that this infrastructure project has no significant environmental impact. On the Right to Peaceful Protests Everyone has a right to be heard, but it must done lawfully and peacefully whether this is during the permitting process with its opportunities for public comment or else disputing the outcome through the court system. On the Need for the Obama Administration to Issue the Easement The ongoing protest activities which at times have turned violent are being prolonged and intensified by the Obama Administration's refusal to approve the final remaining easement at Lake Oahe. This inaction has inflamed tensions, strained state and local resources, and, most importantly, is needlessly putting people at risk including tribal members, protestors, law enforcement officers, construction workers, and area residents our farmers and ranchers who live in the area. It's past time that the final easement is approved and construction is completed. We need to resolve this issue. As the record demonstrates, it should be done so by its merits through the previously established regulatory and legal process. Further the federal law enforcement agencies should help our state and local law enforcement officers to ensure the law is followed, prevent violent and unlawful protests, and see that the peace is maintained. Our law enforcement officers have worked professionally, diligently, and tirelessly to protect the public. On Law Enforcement's Professionalism There have been instances of trespassing, vandalism, theft and fire on privately owned ranchland. Residents have endured the challenges caused by roads being blocked or closed, either by protest activity or law enforcement's response to it to ensure safety at a time when farmers and ranchers are busy harvesting, hauling hay, shipping calves and moving their herds from summer pasture. In addition, law enforcement is investigating cases of butchered, mutilated, injured and missing cattle, horses and bison in areas adjacent to sites occupied by protesters. Law enforcement has worked to protect everyone. They have been patient, professional and diligent. They have not used concussion grenades. More than 500 protestors have been arrested for breaking the law, and over 90 percent of them are from out of state many if not most are not Native American. They are environmental activists from other parts of the country. If you want more information on law enforcement, go to YouTube Know the Truth, which is a website the Morton County Sheriff's Office uses to provide updates on their efforts to maintain law and order at the protest site. The motto of law enforcement is To Serve and Protect, and that is exactly what they are doing. A complete transcript of the senator's remarks can be found here. A map of the route of the Dakota Access Pipeline can be found here. A map of pipelines already existing in the U.S. can be found here. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-elevated-to-key-leadership-position-for-next-session-of-congress,Cramer Elevated to Key Leadership Position for Next Session of Congress,2016-11-29,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer was elevated to an influential committee in the House of Representatives in his election today to the Republican Steering Committee. This powerful committee of House leaders decides all committee assignments and chairmanships.   “I am honored to be elected to this position,” said Cramer. “This will give me a greater voice in shaping the legislative agenda in the next session of Congress, and as the Small State Representative, I will speak out for states like North Dakota with small populations. Although it adds to my workload, which includes membership on the Energy and Commerce Committee, this elevates the influence of North Dakota in Congress.” The 32-member Steering Committee is chaired by Speaker of the House Paul Ryan.  Members include the Republican leadership and regional representatives of all states. In addition to being represented in a region, the states of Alaska, Idaho, Maine, Maryland, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Wyoming, American Samoa and Puerto Rico will have additional influence on the Steering Committee through Cramer as the Small State Representative. Cramer has represented North Dakota as a member of the House of Representatives since 2013. He was re-elected to a third term on Nov. 8 by 69 percent of the vote.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-again-pushes-corps-to-issue-easement-provide-timeline-for-resolution,"Hoeven Again Pushes Corps to Issue Easement, Provide Timeline for Resolution",2016-11-29,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.29.16 Hoeven Again Pushes Corps to Issue Easement, Provide Timeline for Resolution WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven Monday again urged Assistant Secretary of the Army of Civil Works Jo-Ellen Darcy, who oversees the Army Corps of Engineers, to issue a final easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline and put an end to violent protests in North Dakota. Darcy indicated the Corps would issue a timeline for the Dakota Access Pipeline by the end of the week outlining when a decision will be made on the Missouri River crossing. She also said the Corps' Northwest Division Chief Brigadier General Scott Spellmon and Omaha District Commander John Henderson plan to meet with state, local and federal law enforcement officials this week in North Dakota to develop a plan on how to deal with protesters who refuse to leave restricted Corps land by December 5th. In light of violent protests over the past few months, people living and working in the area need to feel safe in their homes and on public roads, Hoeven said. They also deserve the certainty of knowing when the Obama Administration and the Corps will resolve this situation so life can get back to normal. We will continue to call on the Corps and the Obama administration to approve the easement, which we believe will bring this troublesome issue to an end. Area residents have seen incidents of trespassing, vandalism, theft and fire on privately owned land. Unlawful protesters have created severe challenges caused by roads being blocked or closed either by protest activity or law enforcement's responses to ensure public safety Law enforcement has also seen cases of butchered, mutilated, injured and missing cattle, horses and bison in areas adjacent to sites occupied by protesters. There have been reports of protesters following law enforcement to where they live and improvising explosive devices from gas camp stove canisters. These cases illustrate fears and safety risk that may exist for residents, ranchers and their livestock. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-echo-act-will-help-providers-deliver-better-health-care-services-to-rural-america,Hoeven: ECHO Act Will Help Providers Deliver Better Health-Care Services to Rural America,2016-11-29,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.29.16 Hoeven: ECHO Act Will Help Providers Deliver Better Health-Care Services to Rural America Measure Links Primary-Care Doctors and Specialists to Better Serve Rural Patients WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Senate has passed the Expanding Capacity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act, bipartisan legislation that requires the Department of Health and Human Services to explore the expanded use of health-care videoconferencing technology for health-care professionals in rural communities so that patients get the best care possible. Technology has touched nearly every sphere of life in the modern world, linking rural communities with global markets and global information networks, Hoeven said. Now, the ECHO Act is working to connect primary care doctors in our rural and underserved communities, like many in North Dakota, with first-rate specialists in their field who would not otherwise be available to patients living and being treated in rural areas. Project ECHO is an innovative continuing medical education and consultation model that uses interactive videoconferencing to link specialist teams with primary care providers in rural and underserved areas. Together, they participate in weekly teleECHO clinics, which are supported by teleconferencing technology. During teleECHO clinics, primary care clinicians from multiple sites present patient cases to the specialist teams and to each other, discuss new developments relating to their patients and determine the best treatment. Specialists serve as mentors and colleagues, sharing their medical knowledge and expertise with primary care clinicians. The legislation has been endorsed by a number of health care associations, including the National Rural Health Association and National Association of Community Health Centers. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-more-than-26-million-in-fema-funding-to-cover-flood-cleanup-and-prevention-costs-from-2011-flooding,Hoeven Announces More Than $2.6 Million in FEMA Funding to Cover Flood Cleanup and Prevention Costs from 2011 Flooding,2016-11-28,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.28.16 Hoeven Announces More Than $2.6 Million in FEMA Funding to Cover Flood Cleanup and Prevention Costs from 2011 Flooding WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $2,696,411 to the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (NDDES). Today's funds will help reimburse NDDES for management costs resulting from flood cleanup, repair and prevention efforts following widespread flooding in the state in 2011 and for which the President made a disaster declaration. In 2011, North Dakota faced some of the worst flooding in our state's history, Hoeven said. Today's funds will help reimburse NDDES for costs they have incurred from flood cleanup and preparation efforts. Because of these efforts, our state is increasingly safeguarded from catastrophic flooding. Through his role on the Appropriations Committee, Hoeven has worked extensively to secure funding for flood cleanup and prevention throughout North Dakota. Today's funds are part of FEMA's Public Assistance Grant Program, which provides funds to states following a Presidential disaster declaration. To date, FEMA has awarded more than $232 million in Public Assistance funds in response to the 2011 flooding in North Dakota. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-the-corps-decision-to-require-dapl-protesters-to-leave-campsite,Hoeven Statement on the Corps' Decision to Require DAPL Protesters to Leave Campsite,2016-11-28,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.28.16 Hoeven Statement on the Corps' Decision to Require DAPL Protesters to Leave Campsite WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement in response to the Army Corps of Engineers' decision to require DAPL protesters to leave Corps land north of the Cannonball River: In light of violent protest activity, the Corps has taken a necessary step to protect public safety. Now, the protesters should respect the law and peacefully leave the protest area. The well-being and property of ranchers, farmers and everyone else living in the region should not be threatened by protesters who are willing to commit acts of violence. Now, state, local, tribal and federal authorities need to coordinate their efforts to help ensure that the protesters comply and leave. In the meantime, we will continue to call on the Obama administration follow the established procedure for siting important infrastructure projects and approve the easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline. Twice challenged and twice upheld, federal courts found that the Army Corps had followed the appropriate process, the tribe was properly consulted and the project could lawfully proceed. This difficult situation has gone on too long and we need to get it resolved. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-announces-2017-military-academy-nominations,Cramer Announces 2017 Military Academy Nominations,2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here Washington, D.C. - Congressman Kevin Cramer has nominated four students to the United States military service academies. Nominees would enter their academy in the fall of 2017. Cramer nominated Jace Estenson of Devils Lake to the United States Military Academy at West Point; Thomas Irwin of Dickinson to the United States Naval Academy; Michael Shumate of West Fargo and Ryyan Reule of Devils Lake to the United States Air Force Academy. “These are four outstanding young North Dakota men and I am honored to nominate them to our nation’s military service academies,” said Cramer. “There are no slouches among this year’s applicants, and these four demonstrated the characteristics that will not only allow them to get into the academies but to succeed.” Students must be nominated to an academy by a member of Congress, the Vice-President of the United States, or a Service Branch Secretary. Final appointment decisions are made by the individual academies. Those interested in applying for 2018 admission to a military service academy can find more information on Congressman Cramer’s official website, or by calling Randy Richards in the Grand Forks office at 701-738-4880. Information on the students is below: United States Military Academy at West Point:  Jace Estenson, Devils Lake.  Student at Devils Lake High School, with memberships in JROTC, student council, National Honor Society, orchestra, North Dakota National Guard. Sports include varsity wrestling and football. United States Naval Academy: Thomas Irwin, Dickinson. Student at Hope Christian Academy, with memberships including volunteer coach for Dickinson Wrestling Club, children’s ministry volunteer at church, and North Dakota All Academic Team. Sports include varsity wrestling team captain. United States Air Force Academy: Michael Shumate, West Fargo.  Student at West Fargo High School, with memberships in National Honor Society, jazz and pep band, math club, and student congress. United States Air Force Academy: Ryyan Reule, Devils Lake. Student at Devils Lake High School, with memberships in National Honor Society, student council, and orchestra. Sports include varsity hockey and Team North Dakota Hockey.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-new-epa-biofuel-volume-rule-should-provide-some-certainty-to,"CRAMER: New EPA Biofuel Volume Rule Should Provide Some Certainty to Producers, Refiners",2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer issued this statement following today’s release by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of final annual mandatory blending volumes for biofuels under the Renewable Fuel Standard.  Read more here.   “After repeatedly failing to do so in recent years, I’m pleased to see the EPA has finally issued biofuel volumes on schedule. Hopefully this will provide some certainty to producers and refiners. Now that the 15 billion gallon mark for conventional biofuel has been set, I hope industry can meet this new threshold.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mr-president-approve-the-pipeline-easement-without-further-delay-support,"MR. PRESIDENT, APPROVE THE PIPELINE EASEMENT WITHOUT FURTHER DELAY, SUPPORT LAW ENFORCEMENT",2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – In a letter to President Barack Obama, Senator John Hoeven, Congressman Kevin Cramer and Governor Jack Dalrymple today called on the president to quit delaying and authorize the Army Corps of Engineers to approve the final federal easement for the Lake Oahe crossing of the Dakota Access Pipeline and to immediately provide the State of North Dakota with law enforcement resources to assist state and local enforcement to address violent protesters and keep the peace. The full text can be accessed here and is below. November 23, 2016   President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, DC 20500   Dear President Obama: We call on you again to direct the Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) to approve, without further delay, the final federal easement for the Lake Oahe crossing of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Further, in the strongest terms possible, we recommend you provide federal law enforcement resources immediately to state and local agencies in order to maintain public safety, which has been threatened by ongoing – and oftentimes violent – protest activity. These resources are essential to prevent further destruction on and surrounding federal lands. The pipeline, which is already 98 percent complete in North Dakota and 86 percent complete overall, has undergone years of thorough state regulatory reviews and an extensive federal environmental assessment, which found no significant environmental impact. In fact, the pipeline will be sited within an existing right-of-way that already includes a natural gas pipeline and a high-voltage electric transmission line. Twice challenged and twice upheld – including by your own appointees – federal courts found that the Army Corps had followed the appropriate process, the tribe was properly consulted and the project could lawfully proceed. As a former Constitutional law professor you certainly understand there is no legal reason to withhold this easement. Further, you must respect the rule of law and help the State of North Dakota protect its citizens. Your inaction on the pending easement has created undue hardship and uncertainty for area residents, private landowners, tribal members, construction workers and law enforcement personnel. We have seen instances of trespassing, vandalism, theft and fire on privately owned ranchland. Residents have endured the challenges caused by roads being blocked or closed, either by protest activity or law enforcement’s response to it to ensure safety at a time when farmers and ranchers are busy harvesting, hauling hay, shipping calves and moving their herds from summer pasture. In addition, law enforcement is investigating cases of butchered, mutilated, injured and missing cattle, horses and bison in areas adjacent to sites occupied by protesters.      In accordance with the finding of the Army Corps’ environmental assessment and court decisions, we call on you to direct the Army Corps to follow established regulatory criteria and approve the final easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline crossing at Lake Oahe. In addition, we recommend federal resources be deployed expeditiously to protect people and property in the area of violent protests. Sincerely,  John Hoeven                  Kevin Cramer                         Jack Dalrymple  U.S. Senator                   U.S. Congressman                   North Dakota Governor",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-beyond-line-of-sight-unmanned-traffic-management-vital-to-integrating-uas-into-national-airspace,"Hoeven: Beyond-Line-Of-Sight, Unmanned Traffic Management Vital to Integrating UAS Into National Airspace",2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.23.16 Hoeven: Beyond-Line-Of-Sight, Unmanned Traffic Management Vital to Integrating UAS Into National Airspace Senator Working to Advance Key Opportunities for North Dakota's UAS Industry FARGO, N.D. Speaking at the Drone Focus monthly meetup today in Fargo, Senator John Hoeven stressed that beyond-line-of-sight operations and unmanned traffic management (UTM) are key to demonstrating that unmanned aerial systems (UAS) can be safely integrated into the national airspace and are vital in advancing the UAS industry in North Dakota. The path forward for North Dakota's UAS industry lies with beyond-line-of-sight operations and the development of an unmanned traffic management system, Hoeven said. These are key components in demonstrating that UAS, no matter the size, can be operated safely in our national airspace. We have worked hard to make our state the ideal partner in these efforts. Between the Northern Plains Test Site, Grand Sky, our research institutions and our Air Force and Air Guard missions and capabilities, we are well-positioned to lead the way on the future of UAS research, development and training. BEYOND-LINE-OF-SIGHT OPERATIONS Hoeven has continued his efforts to secure approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allowing the Northern Plains Test Site to support beyond-line-of-sight operations. The senator said the FAA has made a commitment to him to grant approval by the end of 2016, which would make the North Dakota UAS test site the first in the nation to have such operability. This means the test site will be able to support the development, testing and evaluation of a wide range of new applications for UAS technology, giving the state a competitive edge in commercial UAS operations, training new pilots and in contending for the new UAS mission the Air Force plans to establish. Hoeven said that North Dakota is well-positioned to receive the FAA's approval, due in part to the DASR-11 digital radar systems at Hector Field and Grand Forks Air Force Base, which received a total of $2 million for technical upgrades earlier this year. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven worked to secure funding for the upgrades, which are set to be completed early next year. UNMANNED AIR TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT Hoeven said that development of UTM system goes hand-in-hand with beyond-line-of-sight operations. Accordingly, the senator met with officials from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Ames Research Center earlier this year in California, including Dr. John Cavolowsky, NASA's lead researcher in developing its UTM system. Dr. Cavolowsky served as the keynote speaker at this year's Drone Focus conference in Fargo, which he attended at Hoeven's invitation, and spoke again at the UAS Summit in Grand Forks in August. While in California, Hoeven made the case for partnering NASA with the Northern Plains UAS Test Site and the Grand Sky Technology Park to develop the agency's UTM system and other programs. This partnership would build on work already undertaken by the test site, which helped NASA evaluate its traffic management platform in April by conducting close-proximity UAS flight tests. INTEGRATION INTO THE NATIONAL AIRSPACE UAS integration into the national airspace has been a central goal in Hoeven's efforts to establish the Red River Valley as the premiere northern hub of UAS research, development and training, which began during his time as governor. To this end, Hoeven successfully authored and helped pass legislation creating the FAA's test sites and included a provision in the FAA Reauthorization Extension in July to extend the authorization for the test sites, including the Northern Plains UAS Test Site, through September 2019. Hoeven continues working through his role on the Appropriations Committee to secure additional funding to support efforts across the federal government, including at the FAA test sites, NASA and the Department of Defense, to develop and demonstrate UAS technology. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-cramer-dalrymple-mr-president-approve-the-pipeline-easement-without-further-delay-support-law-enforcement,"Hoeven, Cramer, Dalrymple: Mr. President, Approve the Pipeline Easement Without Further Delay, Support Law Enforcement",2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.23.16 Hoeven, Cramer, Dalrymple: Mr. President, Approve the Pipeline Easement Without Further Delay, Support Law Enforcement WASHINGTON In a letter to President Barack Obama, Senator John Hoeven, Congressman Kevin Cramer and Governor Jack Dalrymple today called on the president to quit delaying and authorize the Army Corps of Engineers to approve the final federal easement for the Lake Oahe crossing of the Dakota Access Pipeline and to immediately provide the State of North Dakota with law enforcement resources to assist state and local enforcement to address violent protesters and keep the peace. The full text can be accessed here and is below. November 23, 2016 President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Obama: We call on you again to direct the Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) to approve, without further delay, the final federal easement for the Lake Oahe crossing of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Further, in the strongest terms possible, we recommend you provide federal law enforcement resources immediately to state and local agencies in order to maintain public safety, which has been threatened by ongoing and oftentimes violent protest activity. These resources are essential to prevent further destruction on and surrounding federal lands. The pipeline, which is already 98 percent complete in North Dakota and 86 percent complete overall, has undergone years of thorough state regulatory reviews and an extensive federal environmental assessment, which found no significant environmental impact. In fact, the pipeline will be sited within an existing right-of-way that already includes a natural gas pipeline and a high-voltage electric transmission line. Twice challenged and twice upheld including by your own appointees federal courts found that the Army Corps had followed the appropriate process, the tribe was properly consulted and the project could lawfully proceed. As a former Constitutional law professor you certainly understand there is no legal reason to withhold this easement. Further, you must respect the rule of law and help the State of North Dakota protect its citizens. Your inaction on the pending easement has created undue hardship and uncertainty for area residents, private landowners, tribal members, construction workers and law enforcement personnel. We have seen instances of trespassing, vandalism, theft and fire on privately owned ranchland. Residents have endured the challenges caused by roads being blocked or closed, either by protest activity or law enforcement's response to it to ensure safety at a time when farmers and ranchers are busy harvesting, hauling hay, shipping calves and moving their herds from summer pasture. In addition, law enforcement is investigating cases of butchered, mutilated, injured and missing cattle, horses and bison in areas adjacent to sites occupied by protesters. In accordance with the finding of the Army Corps' environmental assessment and court decisions, we call on you to direct the Army Corps to follow established regulatory criteria and approve the final easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline crossing at Lake Oahe. In addition, we recommend federal resources be deployed expeditiously to protect people and property in the area of violent protests. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-joins-1-million-cups-to-highlight-success-of-local-entrepreneurs-economic-growth,"Hoeven Joins 1 Million Cups to Highlight Success of Local Entrepreneurs, Economic Growth",2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.23.16 Hoeven Joins 1 Million Cups to Highlight Success of Local Entrepreneurs, Economic Growth Senator Touts Technology as Third Wave Pillar of ND Economy FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today spoke at the second annual 1 Million Cups (1MC) Reunion Fargo to outline his efforts to expand North Dakota's technology sector and highlight the important role entrepreneurs play in growing the state's economy and creating jobs. We've worked hard to build the right legal, tax and regulatory environment in North Dakota to empower innovation and help entrepreneurs succeed, said Hoeven. Today, we're not only energy and agriculture powerhouses, but North Dakota's technology sector is the third wave in our state's economic growth. Local entrepreneurs are creating the products to meet the challenges of the future, while creating good jobs and a dynamic economy. The senator commended Emerging Prairie for its commitment to the entrepreneurial community in Fargo and across the upper Great Plains and congratulated the group's founders and stakeholders for establishing Fargo 1MC. Earlier this year, Hoeven invited Emerging Prairie founder Greg Tehven to be his guest at the State of the Union to highlight the essential role innovation and entrepreneurship play in our economy. The Emerging Prairie team's commitment to fostering our entrepreneurial community is impressive, said Hoeven. We appreciate their work to establish 1MC, which is a terrific platform that brings together the entire community to showcase technology and innovation. Hoeven has worked since his time as governor to position the state for growth in the technology sector, which he named as one of the state's five targeted industries. Now, through his role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven continues working to build a pro-growth business climate for the state's industries. Through initiatives like the annual State of Technology Conference, Hoeven has worked to make Fargo and the Red River Valley a hub of technology entrepreneurship for the country. The State of Technology Conference has featured companies including: Dakota Carrier Network's development of the Dakota Fiber Initiative; Aldevron's work to develop a vaccine for malaria; Appareo Systems development of next generation air traffic control technology; BotLink, LLC's advances in power and airspace management for unmanned aerial systems; and new applications for 3-D printing from Fargo 3-D Printing, c2renew and Protosthetics. The conference has served as a catalyst for new innovation and investment in the state, including the Dakota Fiber Initiative, which originated from a challenge made by Doug Burgum in his 2013 keynote address at the conference. Hoeven also advocates for and continues to work to support Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Last year, Congress passed the Every Student Succeeds Act, which included legislation based on a measure that Hoeven introduced with Senator Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to improve students' access to STEM education. Further, as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven also helped secure funding in the Senate's Fiscal Year 2017 appropriations bills for programs to enhance STEM education, including the Tribal Colleges and Universities Program at the National Science Foundation. Today's 1MC Reunion highlighted the successes of the regional program's many entrepreneur presenters since weekly meetings first began in 2014. 1MC Fargo is a local chapter of the national series of events and holds the record for largest attendance for a chapter with around 180 individuals and entrepreneurs from the Fargo community attending each week. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-nominates-three-students-for-military-academy-appointments,Hoeven Nominates Three Students for Military Academy Appointments,2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.23.16 Hoeven Nominates Three Students for Military Academy Appointments WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that he has nominated three North Dakota students for appointments to our nation's military academies. Hoeven nominated Elijah Stewart of Minot to the U.S. Naval Academy, Carson Fetting of Finley to the U.S. Air Force Academy and Abram Budge of Fargo to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. We are glad to nominate some of the best and brightest from North Dakota to appointments at our nation's military academies, Hoeven said. Elijah, Carson and Abram have all worked hard to meet the strict application requirements necessary for appointments to the Naval, Air Force and Military Academies. They have the determination and work ethic needed to succeed at these prestigious military institutions, and I am confident they will add to the distinguished histories and traditions modeled by the leaders and individuals who have graduated from the academies. As part of the application process, service academies require students to be nominated by a member of Congress or the Vice President. Each academy determines final appointments. Those appointed receive a scholarship and military appointment and must serve in the military for at least five years following graduation. Individuals interested in applying for a military academy nomination for academic year 2017-2018 should submit an application by October 2017. Additional information on service academy nominations is available through Senator Hoeven's website. Hoeven nominated the following North Dakota students for academy appointments: United States Naval Academy Elijah Stewart Minot Elijah is a senior at Bishop Ryan High School. His academic activities include serving in student government and as president of the local chapter of the National Honor Society. He is also a member of Math Counts and the Bishop Ryan High School band. He is actively involved in sports and is the quarterback on the Bishop Ryan High School football team, point guard on the basketball team and shortstop on the baseball team. Elijah also volunteers in the Minot community including with the Special Olympics, YMCA and Dream Catchers. His grandfather and uncles served in the military, one of whom was a member of the Blue Angel squadron. Elijah is the son of Peter and Julie Stewart. United States Air Force Academy Carson Fetting Finley Carson is a senior at Finley Sharon High School. He is top of his class and serves as class president, FFA president, student council president and is a member of the National Honor Society. Carson is a captain of the football team and member of the baseball, basketball, track and cross country teams. He is also involved in his church and community. Carson is the son of Arlin and Lori Fetting. United States Military Academy (West Point) Abram Budge Fargo Abram is a freshman at NDSU and 2016 Graduate of Fargo South High School. Throughout high school, Abram served in the Air Force Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (AFJROTC), which included time at Summer Leadership School where he served as Cadet Squadron Commander. In high school, he was a member of the National Honor Society, a participant in Science Bowl and Science Olympiad and was a member of Boys State and Boy Scouts. Abram volunteered over 900 hours with AFJROTC and his church. He was also involved in tennis, swimming, track and weightlifting. Abram is the son of Richard and Heather Budge. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-thanksgiving-day-statement,Hoeven Thanksgiving Day Statement,2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.23.16 Hoeven Thanksgiving Day Statement BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement to wish North Dakotans a happy Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving Day affords us the opportunity to gather with family and friends to enjoy the great and abundant blessings we enjoy as Americans because of the work and sacrifices of our forefathers. Above all, we cannot make this observance without feeling a deep sense of gratitude for all that God has given us as a people. Mikey and I wish a happy and blessed Thanksgiving to all. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-touts-small-businesses-contributions-to-economy-encourages-north-dakotans-to-shop-local-on-small-business-saturday,"Hoeven Touts Small Businesses' Contributions to Economy, Encourages North Dakotans to Shop Local on Small Business Saturday",2016-11-23,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.23.16 Hoeven Touts Small Businesses' Contributions to Economy, Encourages North Dakotans to Shop Local on Small Business Saturday Senate Passes Resolution Designating Nov. 26 as Small Business Saturday FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven announced that the U.S. Senate unanimously passed S. Res. 569, legislation designating November 26, 2016, as Small Business Saturday. Hoeven cosponsored this resolution, which helps increase awareness of locally owned small businesses and their value to our economy. Our nation's economy is built on the work of small businesses and small business owners, Hoeven said. This resolution recognizes the important role they play in our nation's economic success by designating November 26th as Small Business Saturday. We encourage all North Dakotans to support their local small businesses and show their appreciation for how these businesses contribute to our communities. The resolution, which can be viewed here, encourages consumers to shop locally and to increase awareness about how locally-owned small businesses affect the economy. The Small Business Administration says there are nearly 71,000 small businesses in North Dakota employing almost 200,000 individuals. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-overtime-rule-injunction-stops-regulatory-burden-on-workers-and,CRAMER: Overtime Rule Injunction Stops Regulatory Burden on Workers and Small Businesses,2016-11-22,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer issued this statement following today’s preliminary injunction by a U.S. District Court judge against a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) overtime rule, which was set to take effect Dec. 1. The rule redefines those employees eligible for overtime pay based upon salary received, rather than duties performed. It also raises the salary threshold under which virtually all workers qualify for overtime pay to $47,476, more than double the current salary threshold of $23,660.   Cramer has consistently opposed this rule change, signing two separate letters, one to DOL Secretary Thomas Perez and the other to the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee requesting it block the rule in its appropriations bill. The full committee approved the appropriations bill in July with this provision included. He also cosponsored House Joint Resolution 95, blocking the rule from taking effect.  “Once again an Obama-appointed judge has blocked the President from imposing an unconstitutional one-size-fits-all regulation on employers and workers. This rule would inflict a significant regulatory burden on small businesses, nonprofits, and local governments and result in fewer opportunities for job training, talent development, and managerial experience for employees. It also stifles upward mobility for employees. Any changes to federal labor policy should respect Congressional intent and include sufficient input from all affected stakeholders. Clearly this one does not.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-marks-dedication-of-fargo-floodwall-worked-to-secure-funding,"Hoeven Marks Dedication of Fargo Floodwall, Worked to Secure Funding",2016-11-22,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.22.16 Hoeven Marks Dedication of Fargo Floodwall, Worked to Secure Funding Floodwall Allows Greater River Flows through Fargo-Moorhead, Mitigates Upstream Impacts FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today joined local officials in Fargo to dedicate the city's new floodwall, the first complete portion of the federal flood protection project for the region. The $40 million project includes the floodwall and road realignments and was paid for with federal, state and local funding. The floodwall was added as a modification to the Army Corps of Engineers' original flood project and allows greater river flows through the city, up to 35 feet, removes the need for temporary clay levees along 2nd Street in Fargo and substantially reduces the need for upstream staging during major flood events. Fargo's new floodwall is an important milestone in our fight against threat of flooding in the Red River Valley, Hoeven said. This infrastructure not only removes the need for costly and temporary levees in Fargo, which have been installed five times since 2009, it also helps address the concerns of the surrounding areas. We continue working with all groups, including upstream groups and the State of Minnesota, to find these kinds of solutions and advance permanent, comprehensive flood protection for the whole region. Hoeven continues his efforts to secure comprehensive flood protection for the Red River Valley. Last month, the senator arranged a meeting in D.C. between the mayors of Fargo and Moorhead, Tim Mahoney and Del Rae Williams, and federal officials, including Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Shaun Donovan and Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Jo-Ellen Darcy, who oversees the Corps. Hoeven also hosted Lt. Gen. Todd Semonite, the new chief of the Corps, in Fargo this August to press for continued support for permanent flood protection. At the same time, Hoeven is working as a member of the Energy and Water Appropriations Committee to ensure the Corps has the funding it needs to sustain the construction of the project. Hoeven wrote and secured language in the last December's funding bill authorizing and funding new construction activity, which was needed to advance the project. The project was subsequently selected for a construction start in the Corps' Fiscal Year 2016 work plan and the Project Partnership Agreement was signed in July. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-presses-usda-to-reconsider-prevented-plant-coverage-reduction-for-corn,Hoeven Presses USDA to Reconsider Prevented Plant Coverage Reduction for Corn,2016-11-22,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.22.16 Hoeven Presses USDA to Reconsider Prevented Plant Coverage Reduction for Corn Senator Says RMA Decision is Wrong, Will Work to Fix Issue Legislatively WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today wrote to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to press USDA to reconsider its decision to reduce the prevented plant coverage rate for corn before the change becomes effective on November 30. The senator said he will work to fix the issue legislatively if necessary, to ensure that the program works for corn growers in North Dakota and across the nation. The prevented planting crop insurance program is a critical risk management tool for farmers in my state of North Dakota, and I disagree with the Risk Management Agency (RMA) decision to reduce the prevented planting coverage rate for corn from 60 percent to 55 percent. This cut in coverage will hurt our farmers during this difficult time of low commodity prices, Hoeven wrote in the letter to Vilsack. Parts of North Dakota have received excessive amounts of rain in the latter half of 2016, which could result in increased demand for prevented planting in 2017. Growers should not be penalized by the weakening of one of their risk management tools during a time of low commodity prices. I urge you to reconsider this change before it becomes effective on November 30, 2016, in order to give past prevented planting reforms a chance to work and to take into account their effectiveness. RMA's announcement to reduce prevented planting coverage percentages from 60 percent to 55 percent for corn will likely cost growers well over $100 million nationwide over the next 10 years and will have larger impacts in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri and Illinois. As a member of the Senate Agriculture and Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven has worked to provide strong risk management tools for producers. The senator has worked to simplify and clarify rules for the prevented plant program to ensure that it works for farmers and ranchers. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-working-to-support-conservation-priorities-for-farmers-ranchers-sportsmen,"Hoeven Working to Support Conservation Priorities for Farmers, Ranchers, Sportsmen",2016-11-22,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.22.16 Hoeven Working to Support Conservation Priorities for Farmers, Ranchers, Sportsmen Senator Invites Input for New Farm Bill from Association of Soil Conservation Districts, Outlines Efforts to Rescind the WOTUS Rule WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today told members of the N.D. Association of Soil Conservation Districts (ASCD) that he is working as a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and the Agriculture Appropriations Committee to push for conservation priorities. These include programs like the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) SAFE program, which is a familiar and effective CRP program that maximizes the impact of conservation dollars in a farmer-friendly manner. Hoeven told the group that their voice is important not only at the local level, but also at the federal level, when lawmakers consider legislation that affects the entire nation. The senator said he's looking forward to seeing the results of the organization's 2016 Farm Bill Survey and invited them to submit ideas or concerns directly to him or his office. Agriculture and natural resources form the foundation of our economy in North Dakota, which makes commonsense, effective conservation programs a key to our success, Hoeven said. As we write the next Farm Bill, and through the annual appropriations process, we want to hear ideas, opinions and issues of importance to you. With the Farm Bill expiring in 2018, we are busy gathering ideas, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts on what the Farm Bill Conservation Title should look like. ASCD members provide valuable insight because they live and work on the land. Hoeven also outlined his efforts to rescind the Environmental Protection Agency's Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule to ensure the management of local waters are put in the hands of the landowners and local governments, rather than the federal government. He said with a new Congress and administration, the WOTUS rule can now be rescinded permanently. Hoeven said there are at least three viable paths to repealing the rule for good: The new Congress could rescind it legislatively next year. The new administration could work through the rule-making process to rescind it. The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, which is now considering the legality of the rule, could strike it down. If the new administration does not appeal the decision, which is likely, the case won't go to the Supreme Court and the rule would be invalidated. Hoeven has worked in his role on the Appropriations Committee to prevent the EPA from implementing the rule in 2016 and 2017. Last week, he and a group of Senate and House members filed an amicus brief in in support of petitions for review filed by 31 states, including North Dakota, and 57 municipal and industry petitioners seeking to overturn the WOTUS Rule. An amicus brief, or friend of the court brief, can be filed in order to address concerns and advise the Court on a matter of law that directly affects the case at hand. WOTUS has posed a real problem for job creators across our nation, including our farmers and ranchers, and we are now in a strong position to repeal the rule permanently, said Hoeven. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-last-nights-demonstration-not-peaceful,Hoeven: Last Night's Demonstration Not Peaceful,2016-11-21,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.21.16 Hoeven: Last Night's Demonstration Not Peaceful BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement in response to protests last night south of Bismarck-Mandan: Today, I spoke with the governor and also met with National Guard Adjutant General Al Dohrmann and Mike Gerhart, superintendent of the North Dakota Highway Patrol, to review last night's protests, which included setting fires, trespassing and attempting to cross police lines. These protests are clearly not peaceful protests and once again demonstrate the need for more law enforcement resources to keep the peace. That's why I spoke last week with the Director of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Jeh Johnson to request more resources. As a result, the Customs and Border Patrol has provided additional resources to help protect people and property, but more is needed. Today, I also arranged a conference call between Brigadier General Scott A. Spellmon, commander of the Northwestern Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and myself, the governor, the lt. governor, the adjutant general and the superintendent of the North Dakota Highway Patrol. We conveyed directly to General Spellmon what is going on in North Dakota related to the protests. The Obama Administration needs to authorize additional law enforcement resources and also authorize the Corps to issue the necessary easement without further delay so that the pipeline situation can be resolved. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-pipeline-issue-needs-to-be-resolved,Hoeven: Pipeline Issue Needs to Be Resolved,2016-11-18,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.18.16 Hoeven: Pipeline Issue Needs to Be Resolved WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today again called on the Obama Administration to quit delays and the Corps to issue the final easement so that construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline can be completed. Further, he said any protests must be peaceful and protesters, mostly from outside North Dakota, who violate the law need to be arrested and held fully accountable. The situation has been a real challenge for farmers, ranchers and North Dakotans who live and work in the region, and it must be solved, Hoeven said. The pipeline can be built safely for the tribe and all others downstream. It follows an existing right-of-way that already has a natural gas pipeline and high voltage transmission line sited on it. Hoeven has continued his effort to push for additional law enforcement and funding to address the protesters. He has pressed Brigadier General Scott Spellmon, commander of the Army Corp of Engineers' Northwestern Division, to approve the easement. This week the senator also spoke with Jeh Johnson, director of the Department of Homeland Security, to press for more Border Patrol Agents to assist local police. The Bureau of Indian Affairs has doubled its presence in the protest area and Border Patrol has assigned officers, but the administration must do more, the senator said. Two weeks ago, the senator brought Julie Schaff Ellingson, the executive vice president of North Dakota Stockmen's Association, to Washington to meet with Interior Secretary Sally Jewell, who oversees the BIA, and high level Corps officials so the secretary could hear firsthand from someone who could speak on behalf of residents directly impacted by some of the lawless protest activity. Hoeven is also working with North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem to secure funding from the U.S. Department of Justice, and he is also drafting legislation in his role on the Appropriations Committee to help North Dakota and other states that encounter similar challenges as a result of federal executive decisions. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-house-votes-hold-iran-and-syria-accountable-for-illegal-actions,CRAMER: House Votes Hold Iran and Syria Accountable for Illegal Actions,2016-11-17,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer said three bills the House of Representatives passed this week have given notice to the regimes in Iran and Syrian regimes they will be held accountable for their illegal actions.   H.R. 6297, The Iran Sanctions Extension Act extends the legislation imposing sanctions on Iran for another 10 years. When enacted in 1996, the Iran-Libya Sanctions Act imposed sanctions against foreign companies investing in Iran’s oil sector. It later expanded to provide a wider array of sanctions, including technology and weaponry related to weapons of mass destruction (WMD), gasoline, or participation in Iran’s gas, oil or uranium mining sectors. The original bill was due to expire on Dec. 31.   “The Obama Administration’s Iran Deal waived many of the sanctions in the original bill,” said Cramer. “However, this bill will continue sanctions on those knowingly helping Iran develop WMDs.  And, the snap-back sanctions in this bill send a strong message to Iran there will be consequences for non-compliance of the Iran Deal.”   The other bills address the sale of commercial aircraft to Iran and impose sanctions on the Assad regime of Syria.    H.R. 5711 prohibits the Secretary of the Treasury from authorizing certain transactions by U.S. financial institutions regarding export or re-export of a commercial passenger aircraft to Iran.    H.R. 5732, The Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2016 places sanctions on the Assad regime in Syria by targeting certain industries that do business with the government. The sanctions run through 2021, but can be suspended if there are meaningful negotiations. Specifically targeted are the sale of military equipment, aircraft parts and fuel.  It also authorizes State Department to assist entities investigating war crimes in Syria.   “Iran and Syria remain very troubled parts of the world,” said Cramer. “Through these bills, we are sending a strong message about the resolve of the leadership by the United States Congress to hold these regimes accountable for their actions.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-joins-colleagues-in-signing-wotus-funding-letter-to-house,Cramer Joins Colleagues in Signing WOTUS Funding Letter to House Leadership,2016-11-17,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer joined 65 colleagues in sending a letter to House leadership urging a prohibition of funds for the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.  The letter was sent to Speaker Paul Ryan, Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, and Appropriations Committee Chairman Harold Rogers and Ranking Member Nita Lowey.  Earlier in the year the House included language in the Fiscal Year 2017 Energy and Water and Interior and Environment Appropriations bills to ensure the rule does not go forward. This letter requests there be a limitation of funds provision in final appropriations bills considered for the fiscal year. “We urge you to recognize the substantial cost, confusion, and regulatory burden this rule will have on the economy if this controversial rule is funded for Fiscal Year 2017,” wrote the signers of the letter.    WOTUS defines which rivers, streams, lakes and marshes fall under the jurisdiction of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) and not the jurisdiction of states. Calling it an unconstitutional power grab, Cramer has been an outspoken opponent of the proposed WOTUS, supporting all efforts in Congress and the courts to halt the rule. “This is the Obama Administration’s brazen attempt to have jurisdiction over every puddle on every farm in every state,” said Cramer. “It is overregulation at its worst, placing an undue burden on every producer and landowner in North Dakota.” Cramer said the federal government should be supporting the nation’s farmers, including those in North Dakota.  “Our farmers and ranchers feed the world and care deeply about their land. They do not need heavy-handed regulations to keep them from being competitive or profitable.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-final-methane-emission-rule-should-be-subject-to-congressional,CRAMER: Final Methane Emission Rule Should Be Subject to Congressional Review,2016-11-15,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer issued the following statement on today’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) release of the Methane Waste Prevention final rule. “This rule has everything to do with the Obama Administration’s goal of shutting down the oil and gas industry. The BLM should not be creating a program to regulate air quality, since it duplicates Environmental Protection Agency and state regulations. Additionally, flaring and methane emissions have already been reduced while oil and natural gas production has increased, illustrating the financial incentive the oil and gas industry has to capture methane and sell it in the marketplace.  I worked to include the language preventing funding this rule in the House FY2017 Interior Appropriations bill when it passed the House in July, and will continue to support that in any future FY2017 spending bill. I also intend to prevent the rule when the new Congressional Session convenes in January under the provisions of the Congressional Review Act and work with the Trump Administration to prevent infrastructure delays to gathering natural gas.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-gold-star-families-voices-act-allows-us-to-preserve-the-memories-of-those-who-made-the-ultimate-sacrifice,Hoeven: Gold Star Families Voices Act Allows Us to Preserve the Memories of Those Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice,2016-11-15,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.15.16 Hoeven: Gold Star Families Voices Act Allows Us to Preserve the Memories of Those Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued the follow statement after the U.S. Senate passed the Gold Star Families Voices Act. The measure allows the families of our men and women in uniform who died in the service of their country to contribute to the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress. The Veterans History Project preserves recordings, photographs and narratives of U.S. veterans so that future generations can hear the stories of these service members firsthand. The House passed the legislation in September, and it now goes to the president's desk for signature. At present only the testimonials and biographies of living veterans are allowed to be preserved in the Library of Congress's Veterans History Project. The legislation we passed today will allow the families of our men and women in the military who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country to participate in the program. This will ensure that their loved ones' memories will live on in the minds and hearts of Americans for generations to come. It's a tangible way we can thank them for their service and fulfill our pledge to never forget them. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-rural-call-quality-act-establishes-standards-for-telephone,CRAMER: Rural Call Quality Act Establishes Standards for Telephone Reliability,2016-11-14,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – A bill that establishes standards to improve the quality of rural telephone calls was one of four bills Congressman Kevin Cramer co-sponsored that passed the House of Representative today. Cramer is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, where these bills originated. H.R. 2566, The Improving Rural Call Quality and Reliability Act of 2016, requires third-party intermediate providers who offer the capability of transmitting covered voice communication to register with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Third-party intermediate providers work by carrying long distance phone calls in rural areas between providers such as Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint. The bill also requires the FCC to issue rules establishing service quality standards for those providers, in an attempt to increase phone service reliability in rural areas. “Third-party providers are not currently required to register with the FCC or meet phone call quality standards,” said Cramer. “This bill requires that they do both.” He said this legislation helps correct the disadvantages faced by rural Americans who struggle with poor quality telephone service.  “Rural Americans need reliable and consistent telephone service for their businesses and homes.” Cramer is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and this bill was one of several Cramer supported passed by the full House of Representatives today.  The others bills he co-sponsored are: H.R. 2669, The Anti-Spoofing Act of 2016. This bill requires the FCC to levy penalties and criminal fines against spoofing crimes, where individuals use fake information about a caller’s identification to defraud or harm another through text message or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).  H.R. 1192,  The National Clinical Care Commission Act. This bill establishes a clinical care commission to evaluate and recommend solutions regarding better coordinating of Federal programs related to complex metabolic or autoimmune disorders, diabetes, or complications caused by any such disease. H.R. 4365,   The Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medications Act of 2016. This bill clarifies that the Controlled Substances Act to ensure that paramedics and other emergency medical services (EMS) professionals are able to continue to administer controlled substances, such as pain narcotics and anti-seizure medications, under standing orders issued by a EMS medical director physician. Other bills Cramer supported also originating in the Energy and Commerce Committee and passed by the House of Representatives today are:H.R. 1209, The Improving Access to Maternity Care Act. This bill requires the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to designate maternity care health professional shortage areas, in an attempt to better place maternity health care professionals in areas with the greatest need for their services.   H.R. 2713, The Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2016.  This bill reauthorizes the Nursing Workforce Development Programs, which address various aspects of nursing workforce demand, including education, practice, recruitment, and retention.H.R. 985, The Concrete Masonry Products Research, Education, and Promotion Act of 2015.  This bill enables concrete masonry products manufacturers to establish, finance, and carry out a “check-off” program for concrete masonry products.H.R. 4665, The Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act of 2016. This bill directs the Bureau of Economic Analysis to assess and analyze the outdoor recreation economy of the United States and the effects attributable to it on the overall economy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-corps-should-issue-the-dapl-easement-and-resolve-the-pipeline-situation-in-nd,Hoeven: Corps Should Issue the DAPL Easement and Resolve the Pipeline Situation in N.D.,2016-11-14,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.14.16 Hoeven: Corps Should Issue the DAPL Easement and Resolve the Pipeline Situation in N.D. WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement in response to the Army Corps of Engineers' announcement that it will further delay issuing a final easement that would allow construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline to be completed: The Corps today announced it will further delay issuing an easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline. That will only prolong the disruption in the region caused by protests and make life difficult for everyone who lives and works in the area. U.S. District Judge James Boasberg ruled in September that the Corps has done its due diligence, and he allowed the project to proceed. Furthermore, the pipeline is sited in an existing right-of-way that already includes a natural gas pipeline and a high-voltage transmission line. The route has been altered 141 times to address sites of archaeological significance. The solution now is for the Corps to grant an easement for the project so that life can return to normal for our farmers, ranchers, tribal members and law enforcement officers, who have worked very hard to protect the lives and property of all. Further, I will continue to call on the Obama administration to provide federal resources and funding to help ensure public safety. The senator has been working to support state and local law enforcement efforts, which include bringing in additional law enforcement resources through EMAC, the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, so that people living in the region feel safe and private property rights are protected. Hoeven and the congressional delegation have also been working to bring federal resources to assist local law enforcement in their efforts to keep the peace and deal with the protests. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-were-positioned-to-rescind-wotus-permanently,Hoeven: We're Positioned to Rescind WOTUS Permanently,2016-11-14,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.14.16 Hoeven: We're Positioned to Rescind WOTUS Permanently Senators, House Members File Amicus Brief in States' Suit to Repeal EPA's Waters of the U.S. Rule WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today said that with a new Congress and administration, the Environmental Protection Agency's Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule can now be rescinded permanently. Hoeven said there are at least three viable paths to repealing the rule for good: The new Congress could rescind it legislatively next year. The new administration could work through the rule-making process to rescind it. The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, which is now considering the legality of the rule, could strike it down. If the new administration does not appeal the decision, which is likely, the case won't go to the Supreme Court and the rule would be invalidated. WOTUS has posed a real problem for job creators across our nation, including our farmers and ranchers, and we are now in a strong position to repeal the rule permanently, said Hoeven, who worked in his role on the Appropriations Committee to prohibit the EPA from implementing the rule in 2016 and 2017. We have worked successfully in the Senate to prevent the WOTUS rule from being implemented year to year, but now we have several paths we can pursue to eliminate it completely. To help inform the Sixth Circuit Court on the WOTUS case, the senator and a group of Senate and House members have filed an amicus brief in in support of petitions for review filed by 31 states and 57 municipal and industry petitioners seeking to overturn the WOTUS Rule. An amicus brief, or friend of the court brief, can be filed in order to address concerns and advise the Court on a matter of law that directly affects the case at hand. The bicameral amicus brief recently filed states, in part: 'As Senators and Representatives duly elected to serve in the Congress of the United States in which all legislative Powers' granted by the Constitution are vested, the members state that: 'With this new rulemaking, the Agencies are encroaching on traditional state authorities over land use and water quantity (as opposed to water quality). Congress, not federal agencies, has the sole and exclusive right to make law. The Executive Branch, for its part, must take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed.' U.S. Const. art. II, sec. 3 (emphasis added). The Agencies have failed to carry out that responsibility. Accordingly, this Court should reject the Agencies' attempt to alter the federal-state framework of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and vacate the WOTUS rule.' -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-announces-mobile-office-hours-in-langdon-and-pembina-nov-17,Cramer Announces Mobile Office Hours in Langdon and Pembina Nov. 17,2016-11-10,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Kevin Cramer has scheduled Mobile Office Hours in Langdon and Pembina on Thursday, Nov. 17. Mobile Office Hours allow constituents to receive assistance with casework from the Congressman’s staff. “Many issues are raised at the Coffee with Cramer town halls I hold around the state. Having my staff in Langdon and Pembina will allow more time for those with concerns to meet with my staff,” said Cramer. “I realize it's not always easy or even possible for people to get to my district offices. Mobile Office Hours brings these services closer to constituents.” Individuals from the Langdon and Pembina areas are encouraged to stop by the Mobile Office for help with veteran and Social Security benefits, Medicare billing problems, immigration issues, military records or medals, or for assistance with any other federal agency. Mobile Office Hours—Thursday, November 17 Cavalier County Library 10:30 a.m. to Noon 600 5th Ave. Langdon, ND 58249   Larry Wilwant Community Center 1:30 to 3 p.m. 172 N. Fifth St., Pembina, ND 58271 Contact Emily Custer, Cramer’s Constituent Services Representative, with any questions.  Her email is emily.custer@mail.house.gov and her phone 701-738-4880.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-interns-joyce-and-morsching-serve-constituents-gain-valuable,"CRAMER: Interns Joyce and Morsching Serve Constituents, Gain Valuable Experience",2016-11-10,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Kevin Cramer announced two interns are serving in his district Congressional offices this fall. “It is a privilege to have these young people in my offices serving the people of North Dakota,” Cramer said. ”We are putting their talents to work on a wide variety of tasks, and the experience they gain in a Congressional office will benefit their education and future careers.” North Dakota District Office Interns: Ryan Joyce is working at the Bismarck district office. A Tioga, N.D., native, he is a junior at the University of Mary majoring in public policy with minors in economics and biology.  In addition to his classes, he is involved in college economic book club studies, pre-law club, and numerous intramural sports. Following graduation, he is interested in attending law school to pursue a career in environmental law. Cody Morsching is working at the Grand Forks district office.  A Fairbault, Minn., native, he is a senior at the University of North Dakota majoring in business economics. At UND, he is involved in Advertising Club, Accounting Club, Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and the Student Managed Investment Fund.  Following graduation, he intends to work for a government agency for a couple years before returning to school to further his education. Applications are now being accepted for the spring and summer internship terms in Washington, D.C., and the district offices.  The application deadlines are Dec. 9 for the spring term and April 7 for the summer.  Interested students can find more information on Congressman Cramer’s official website, or by calling his Washington, D.C., office at 202-225-2611.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-thanks-veterans-and-their-families-and-honors-their-service-on-veterans-day,Hoeven Thanks Veterans and Their Families and Honors Their Service on Veterans Day,2016-11-10,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.10.16 Hoeven Thanks Veterans and Their Families and Honors Their Service on Veterans Day BISMARCK, N.D. In anticipation of Veterans Day, Hoeven issued the following statement to honor veterans throughout North Dakota and the nation. Today and every day, we honor the brave men and women who have courageously risked their lives to protect our freedoms. There is no greater risk than what our veterans have made, nor no greater honor than what they deserve. Many times, our way of life has been assaulted, and in every instance, our veterans have answered the call to protect our nation. The United States is today the freest and most successful nation the world has ever known because of their selfless service ad sacrifice. Hoeven continues to work to help veterans access health care in a timely manner and closer to home. Last month, Hoeven announced the Veterans Care Coordination initiative, a new pilot program to help veterans seeking care through the Veterans Choice Program in North Dakota and western Minnesota coordinate their health care needs directly with the Fargo Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center, rather than Health Net, a third party contractor headquartered in California. The initiative, which resulted from veterans listening sessions and roundtables Hoeven held around the state, will allow veterans to access health care in their local communities when VA facilities are not available or timely. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, Hoeven works to secure strong funding to provide the nation's veterans with the care they have earned. In September, he helped pass the Fiscal Year 2017 Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill, which included record funding for veterans. Further, the Senate Veteran Affairs Committee passed legislation which included provisions from two Hoeven bills to allow veterans greater access to long-term care facilities (LTC) in their home communities. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-names-lee-north-dakota-state-director,Hoeven Names Lee North Dakota State Director,2016-11-09,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.09.16 Hoeven Names Lee North Dakota State Director Lee Replaces Current Chief of Staff, State Director Don Larson FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today announced that he has appointed his current regional director for southwestern North Dakota, Jessica Lee, to be his new state director. As his state director, she will oversee the operations of the senator's five regional offices and coordinate between them and his Washington, D.C. office to serve constituents across the state. Lee replaces Don Larson, who currently serves as the senator's chief of staff and state director. As our Fargo regional director, Jessica has served our office and the people of North Dakota with energy and a real knowledge of the concerns and priorities of our state, Hoeven said. Between that service and her prior work with businesses, organizations and community leaders throughout the state and region, she knows the issues and aspirations of our people and will serve North Dakota well in her new role as state director. Prior to being appointed as Hoeven's regional director for southeast North Dakota in January 2015, Lee served as the Government Affairs and Advocacy Manager for nearly four years at the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce. There, she helped to develop and manage public policy priorities and initiatives at the local, state and federal level relative to transportation, education, energy, regulatory, health care and environmental issues. She also previously worked as the Health Insurance Outreach Manager for the Dakota Medical Foundation and as the Health Policy Specialist for MeritCare Health System. Lee received her Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and Government from North Dakota State University in 2002. She will be working from Hoeven's office at 1802 32nd Ave South in Fargo and can be reached at 701-239-5389 or jessica_lee@hoeven.senate.gov. Don Larson, who has worked as a senior advisor to Hoeven since 2003, will be leaving Hoeven's office to pursue opportunities in the private sector. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-outlines-efforts-opportunities-to-advance-north-dakotas-energy-industry,"Hoeven Outlines Efforts, Opportunities to Advance North Dakota's Energy Industry",2016-11-09,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.09.16 Hoeven Outlines Efforts, Opportunities to Advance North Dakota's Energy Industry Senator Working to Support Development of CCS Technology, Provide Regulatory Certainty BISMARCK, N.D. At the Basin Electric Power Cooperative's annual meeting today, Senator John Hoeven stressed the important role coal and other traditional energy resources play in supporting the nation's economy and outlined opportunities to ensure the future growth of North Dakota's energy industry. Our ability to provide low-cost, reliable energy drives the country's economy and impacts families and businesses from coast to coast, Hoeven said. North Dakota is leading the way in developing some truly innovative technology, such as the Allam Cycle, Project Tundra and other clean coal projects, which will help our energy industry to produce more energy with better environmental stewardship and less emissions. We are working to ensure that the federal government has the programs and policies in place that industry needs to advance these projects and make this technology commercially-viable. As a member of the Senate Energy Committee and Energy Appropriations committee, Hoeven works in the following areas to support the state's energy priorities: DEVELOP NEW TECHNOLOGY TO SUPPORT TRADITIONAL ENERGY Clean Coal Projects - Hoeven arranged a meeting between Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz and North Dakota energy leaders to secure funding for clean coal projects in the state, including a pilot and demonstration project for the Allam Cycle. Basin Electric and Allete Inc. are working together on the project, which uses supercritical CO2 to drive turbines and generate electricity. The process can greatly increase efficiency, reduce emissions in coal and natural gas plants and allows for the CO2 to be sequestered or used for enhanced oil recovery. The senator later helped to formalize a partnership between Minnkota Power Cooperative, Allete Clean Energy, BNI Energy and the University of North Dakota's (UND) Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) for Project Tundra, a project to retrofit existing plants for carbon capture and sequestration (CCS). CCS Research - Earlier this year, Hoeven successfully secured $30 million in the Senate's Fiscal Year (FY) 2017 energy funding legislation to support the development of commercially-viable CCS technology. Further, the senator helped to pass the Energy Policy Modernization Act. The Senate bill would authorize $610 million annually for a new Coal Technology Program to advance large-scale CCS demonstration projects and is currently in conference committee. Regulatory Primacy - Hoeven urged Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy to approve North Dakota's application for regulatory primacy over Class VI injection wells, which are used for the geologic storage of carbon. Tax Certainty - Hoeven recently introduced the CO2 Regulatory Certainty Act of 2016 with Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.), legislation that will ensure project developers are better able to claim the 45Q tax credit for CO2 sequestration projects. ENSURE COST-EFFECTIVE REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) Hoeven included language in the Senate's FY2017 Interior and Environment funding bill to prevent the implementation of the WOTUS rule. EPA's Rules for New and Existing Power Plants Hoeven cosponsored and the Senate passed two resolutions to repeal the EPA's costly power plan rules for existing plants and new coal generating plants, which President Obama subsequently vetoed. Separately, the senator helped introduce the Affordable Reliable Energy Now Act, which would protect against the regulations. He also organized a meeting with the EPA, state officials and industry leaders, where the agency agreed to work with the state and provide more time to address its concerns. Coal Ash Recycling The Senate recently passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which includes legislation based on the Improving Coal Combustion Residuals Regulation Act of 2016, a bill introduced by Hoeven and Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.). The Hoeven-Manchin measure prevents costly litigation and, for the first time, creates an enforceable state permit program for the disposal of coal ash, which also helps industry to continue to safely recycle it into useful, less-expensive construction materials. Stream Buffer Rule Earlier this year, Hoeven brought Janice Schneider, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management at the Interior Department, to North Dakota to show her firsthand the impact of the agency's proposed Stream Buffer rule, which threatens thousands of jobs in 22 states, and to press for a states-first approach to the rule. Water Heater Efficiency Congress passed Hoeven's Water Heater Efficiency legislation in 2015, which enables rural electric power cooperatives and their members to continue using large, energy-efficient water heaters in demand response conservation programs. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-bobby-vee-s-north-dakota-legacy-lives-on-in-his-music,CRAMER: Bobby Vees North Dakota Legacy Lives on in His Music,2016-11-02,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"BISMARCK, N.D. – Congressman Kevin Cramer issued the following statement on the legacy of pop singer and Fargo native Bobby Vee.  Cramer represented North Dakota at his funeral today at St. John’s Abbey Church in Collegeville, Minn.  Vee died Oct. 24 of complications of Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 73.  He was 15 years old when his band, The Shadows, was asked to fill in at a show in Moorhead, Minn., for Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper, who had died in a plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa, Feb. 3, 1959, enroute to the show.  In his singing career, Vee had 38 singles in the Billboard Hot 100 from 1959 to 1970, including “Take Good Care of My Baby,” “The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” and “Rubber Ball.” “Bobby Vee will always be remembered as a legendary North Dakotan. I was one of many fans from around the world who loved his music. In the 1980s, I nominated him for North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt Roughrider Award, which he received in 1999.  God granted Bobby many gifts which he shared with the world.  He was a good man whose North Dakota legacy lives on in his music.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-joined-by-stockmens-association-head-to-press-for-resolution-to-dakota-access-pipeline-project,Hoeven Joined by Stockmen's Association Head to Press for Resolution to Dakota Access Pipeline Project,2016-11-02,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.02.16 Hoeven Joined by Stockmen's Association Head to Press for Resolution to Dakota Access Pipeline Project Senator, Stockmen's Association Vice President Meet with Interior Secretary and Top Corps Officials WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today was joined by Julie Schaff Ellingson, the executive vice president of North Dakota Stockmen's Association, in calling on the Obama Administration and the Corps to issue an easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline and put an end to the unrest affecting the ranching community. Ellingson and her husband are fourth and fifth generation ranchers and farmers in the area of the protests. The senator arranged meetings in his Washington office with administration officials so that they could hear firsthand from someone who could speak on behalf of residents directly impacted by some of the lawless protest activity. The senator and Ellingson met with Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell; Assistant Secretary Lowry Crook for the Corps of Engineers; and Major General Donald Jackson, Deputy Commanding General for Civil and Emergency Operations with the Army Corps of Engineers. Ellingson described instances of trespassing, vandalism, theft and fire on privately owned ranchland. She also emphasized the challenges caused by roads being blocked or closed either by protest activity or law enforcement's response to it to ensure safety at a time when farmers and ranchers are busy harvesting, hauling hay, shipping calves and moving their herds from summer pasture. In addition, Ellingson said law enforcement has also seen several cases of butchered, mutilated, injured and missing cattle, horses and bison over recent weeks in areas adjacent to sites occupied by protesters. To date, six bison, six cows and two horses have been found dead, two cows have been shot and injured and more than 30 cows and calves have been reported missing. The cases are still under investigation, but illustrate the safety risk that may exist for landowners, livestock and others occupying the area. Everyone's first priority must be public safety, Hoeven said. Farmers, ranchers and all who live and work in the area must not be intimidated and threatened by violent protesters, most of whom have come from out of state. Law enforcement officers have done a remarkable job of showing restraint, even when they have been assaulted in the course of asking the protesters to leave private property. They need help, but more importantly, they need to see this issue resolved so that life can get back to normal. We will continue to press the administration and the Corps, as we did today, to make a determination approving the easement. Over the past couple months, this farming and ranching community has been turned on its head and private property rights have been under siege, Ellingson said. We're hopeful the federal agencies acknowledge the severity of the situation and that their inaction leaves farmers, ranchers and their property in a compromised and sometimes dangerous position. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-issues-statement-in-support-of-emergency-commission-action-approving-an-additional-4-million-for-law-enforcement,Hoeven Issues Statement in Support of Emergency Commission Action Approving an Additional $4 Million for Law Enforcement,2016-11-01,2016,2016-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.01.16 Hoeven Issues Statement in Support of Emergency Commission Action Approving an Additional $4 Million for Law Enforcement WASHINGTON -- Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement in response to the North Dakota Emergency Commission's approval of another $4 million loan to support law enforcement efforts to keep the peace during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests: In light of recent violent protest activity, we support the Emergency Commission's request for additional funding to help law enforcement keep the peace during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests. The well-being and property of ranchers, farmers and everyone else living in the region should not be threatened by protesters who are willing to commit violence to achieve their ends. In the meantime, we will continue working to secure reimbursement for the state's expenses from the federal government and call on the Corps and the Obama administration to approve the easement and resolve the issue. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-weatherization-assistance-program-a-successful-state-and-federal,CRAMER: Weatherization Assistance Program a Successful State and Federal Partnership,2016-10-31,2016,2016-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Congressman Kevin Cramer joined federal, state and local partners that administer weatherization programs across North Dakota to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the federal Weatherization Assistance Program.  Today’s event was hosted by the Red River Valley Community Action Program in Grand Forks. “North Dakota's program is an example of a successful federal, state and local partnership,” said Cramer. “This is a model of how to provide a safety net to the citizens of our communities.” Cramer said Congress must continue policy discussions on how to model the program so it has both compassion and common sense.  “We also need to continue to innovate so this program can unleash better practices at the local and state levels.” The Weatherization Assistance Program was developed in response to the 1973 oil crisis and signed into law by President Gerald Ford as part of the Energy Conservation and Production Act of 1976 (P.L. 94-385). The program’s purpose is “to increase the energy efficiency of dwellings owned or occupied by low-income persons, reduce their total residential energy expenditures, and improve their health and safety, especially low-income persons who are particularly vulnerable such as the elderly, the handicapped, and children.” Cramer is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. The Weatherization Assistance Program is administered by the Department of Energy, and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services to help pay energy bills for low-income households, which can include weatherization projects.  North Dakota’s program is coordinated by the state Department of Commerce Division of Community Service.  Director Bruce Hagen said between 500 and 600 homes are weatherized in North Dakota each year. Ray Judy, the energy services director for the National Association for State Services Programs, said 7.4 million homes have been weatherized in the 40 years since the Weatherization Assistance Program began. “The average savings to these homes is $250 to $450 a year.” “This program has come very far from the early days of putting caulk and plastic over windows,” said Dave Rinebolt, director of the Weatherization Assistance Program at the U.S. Department of Energy. “This program spawned the field of building science research, where new and innovative techniques have been developed and continuously improved.”  David Bradley, director of the National Community Action Foundation, said it is important the Weatherization Assistance Program remain a priority in Congress. “We must also continue to encourage national industry partnerships to advance research and efficiencies in the program.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-report-shows-true-motive-behind-administration-s-handling-of,CRAMER: Report Shows True Motive Behind Administrations Handling of WOTUS Rule,2016-10-28,2016,2016-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio Here WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer issued the following statement about a report issued Thursday critical of the Obama Administration’s handling of the Waters of the US (WOTUS) rule. The report from House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Republicans described the process as being rife with legal shortcuts, predetermined conclusions, and politically-driven timelines. “This oversight report is further evidence the Waters of the U.S. rule, which imposes onerous regulations on farmers, homebuilders and energy producers, was politically driven. This rule must be repealed.  If a more specific definition of Waters of the United States is required, then a legal process with appropriate opportunity for public comment and proper interagency consultation must be followed. I intend to introduce legislation next year defining WOTUS in code since politically motivated bureaucrats seem incapable. You would think after being overturned by the Supreme Court twice they’d learn their lesson.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-veterans-concerns-well-served-by-state-advisory-board,CRAMER: Veterans Concerns Well-Served by State Advisory Board,2016-10-28,2016,2016-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Kevin Cramer reviewed accomplishments by the 114th Congress that affect veterans and the military during a meeting of his Veterans Advisory Board today in Bismarck.  The 114th Congress began in January 2015 and concludes at the end of the year. Cramer’s Veterans Advisory Board consists of a diverse cross section of North Dakota’s veteran population.  The group receives legislative updates and offers advice and feedback on issues that affect veterans and their families.  Cramer said these meetings help him serve all North Dakota veterans, and the success of this board has received “best practices” recognition in Congress as a model for statewide veteran outreach.  “I value the time these state veterans give to attend these board meetings and for the ongoing feedback they provide on all issues related to veterans and the military,” said Cramer.  “Because of their input and involvement, they help me serve North Dakota veterans better in Congress.” At today’s meeting Cramer reported on the Military Construction and Veterans Administration appropriations bill that passed Congress in late September.  It addressed several concerns about services for veterans, including providing additional funding for shortening the processing backlog for disability applications and improving digital technology to scan agency records. Another bill that recently passed Congress and signed by the President last month is the Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2016. This bill extends several expiring programs at the Veterans Administration (VA) for another year.  These programs provide services in the areas of health care, veterans' benefits and homeless veterans. The new law includes programs that collect co-payments for hospital and nursing home care, provide support services for caregivers, recover third party cost of care for non-service connected disabilities, and offer child care for veterans receiving health care, transportation grants for rural veterans, counseling retreats for women veterans and use of community-based organizations to ensure veterans are receiving care and benefits. Cramer said he worked with the VA to establish a Veterans Cemetery in North Dakota and was pleased when the announcement was made in July that one would be built north of Fargo on Cass County Road 20. “This is a victory for the veterans in our region to have a final resting place close to their home,” he said. Current casework his staff is handling for state veterans includes appointment scheduling through the Veterans Choice program, the backlog at the VA for processing appeals, and means testing for veterans to qualify for medical services.  The Veterans Choice Program allows eligible veterans to receive health care in their communities, rather than waiting for a VA appointment or traveling to a VA facility. Cramer said the VA is addressing the scheduling problems by taking more control of scheduling appointments, and looking into new contractors for scheduling in the future.  Lack of parking for patients at the Fargo VA Hospital has been a concern during a construction project there. Cramer said administrators are working to find more parking accommodations and are considering constructing a parking ramp.  Members  of the Veterans Advisory Board are Clinton Romesha, Medal of Honor Recipient and North Dakota Entrepreneur;  Lt. Colonel Davina French, Government Affairs Officer for the North Dakota National Guard;  John Hanson, State Commander for the North Dakota Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW);   Rusty Ouart, Purple Heart recipient;  Warren Tobin, Department Adjutant of the Disabled American Veterans; Lonnie Wangen, Commissioner of Veterans Affairs for the State of North Dakota;  Uma Hoffman of Steffes Corp.;  Tyler Okerlund of the UND Center for Innovation; Eric Marts of WDAY Heroes’ of the Heartland;  Chris Zanon of Fortis Energy, and Marlys Morgenstern of Job Service North Dakota.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-outlines-efforts-to-make-long-term-private-care-more-available-to-veterans-in-their-home-communities,"Hoeven Outlines Efforts to Make Long-Term, Private Care More Available to Veterans in Their Home Communities",2016-10-28,2016,2016-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.28.16 Hoeven Outlines Efforts to Make Long-Term, Private Care More Available to Veterans in Their Home Communities Senator Discusses Veterans Care Coordination Initiative and Continued Work to Improve Vet Access to Health Services at Napoleon Care Center NAPOLEON, N.D. During a visit to the Napoleon Care Center today, Senator John Hoeven outlined his efforts to make more health care services available for veterans in both rural and urban communities. Health care is a cornerstone of the promises we make to our veterans, and they should be able to access the care they need without long road trips or complicated bureaucracy, Hoeven said. Our long-term care measure in the Veterans First Act as well as our new Veterans Care Coordination initiative at the Fargo VA are part of our ongoing work to remove obstacles and allow veterans to access more convenient, quality care closer to home. Improving Veterans' Access to Long-Term Care Hoeven's Veterans Access to Long Term Care and Health Services Act, which was approved by the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee in December, would allow the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to enter into provider agreements with qualified hospital, medical and extended care providers. This would enable providers, such as skilled nursing homes and in-home care services, to accept veteran patients without having to comply with burdensome and oftentimes expensive federal contracting requirements. Hoeven secured a similar provision in the Veterans First Act, which he continues working to pass. This bipartisan legislation will strengthen the Veterans Choice Program, increase accountability at the VA and improve veterans' health care services and benefits. Convenient Health Care for Veterans in their Communities Hoeven worked to secure and implement a new pilot program, the Veterans Care Coordination initiative, which allows veterans seeking care through the Veterans Choice Program to coordinate all of their health care needs through the Fargo VA Medical Center rather than Health Net, a third party contractor headquartered in California. This will help veterans in North Dakota and western Minnesota access care from a private health care provider in the community if they have experienced unacceptable waiting times or a VA medical center is inaccessible. In addition, the new pilot program arranges to have a Health Net staff member at the Fargo VA so providers can work with the Fargo VA to improve provider reimbursements and reduce denials of veterans' claims. At the same time, Health Net's new electronic billing system should also reduce errors and payment denials. The Veterans Care Coordination initiative grew out of a series of veterans' listening sessions and roundtables Hoeven held around the state. Beginning nearly a year ago in Williston, he heard about a range of problems veterans were experiencing when working with Health Net to schedule and access health care. Problems included dropped appointments, long wait times, denied payments to eligible local providers and other obstacles to getting care. The senator met with veterans in large cities like Fargo, Bismarck and Dickinson, as well as small communities like Bottineau and Steele, all encountering similar problems. The senator then secured a commitment from VA Secretary Bob McDonald to launch the pilot program to address the issue. Hoeven worked closely with Lavonne Liversage, Fargo VA Health Care System Director; Cheryl Andersen, Clinical Care Resource Manager; Dr. Breton Weintraub, Chief of Staff at the VA Medical Center; and Gene Migliaccio, Dr.P.H., Deputy Chief Business Officer for Purchased Care for the VA. Hoeven also worked to gather input from state and local officials, including Lonnie Wangen, Commissioner N.D. Veteran's Affairs; Grant Carns, Williams County Veterans Service Officer; and Dan Thorstad, Cass County VSO, who attended Hoeven's announcement of the new pilot program in Fargo. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-hhs-to-provide-nearly-23-million-for-home-heating-assistance-in-north-dakota,Hoeven: HHS to Provide Nearly $23 Million for Home Heating Assistance in North Dakota,2016-10-26,2016,2016-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.26.16 Hoeven: HHS to Provide Nearly $23 Million for Home Heating Assistance in North Dakota WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will distribute nearly $23 million to help low-income North Dakotans heat their homes. The funds are made available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and include nearly $5.5 million for tribes in the state. Today's funding will ease the strain that winter can bring on families' budgets and help them to stay safe and warm throughout the season, Hoeven said. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-honors-deployed-service-members-on-day-of-the-deployed,Hoeven Honors Deployed Service Members on 'Day of the Deployed',2016-10-26,2016,2016-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.26.16 Hoeven Honors Deployed Service Members on 'Day of the Deployed' Senator Introduced Resolution to Honor America's Armed Forces Deployed Abroad WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today honored the men and women of the United States' armed forces who are deployed. In September, Hoeven introduced and the Senate unanimously passed a resolution designating October 26th as the Day of the Deployed. Today we honor the selfless service of many thousands of brave men and women deployed on missions to protect our country and secure our freedom, Hoeven said. We extend our deepest thanks for your sacrifice. At the same time, we honor the families and loved ones who demonstrate their commitment to our nation in their support for our servicemen and women. More than 2 million individuals currently serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, including those in the active duty, Guard and Reserve components. Several hundred thousand members are deployed each year to 150 countries around the world. As Governor of North Dakota, Hoeven launched the first Day of the Deployed on October 26, 2006. Hoeven has continued to spearhead the effort in the U.S. Senate, and in 2011 he sponsored the first Senate resolution calling for a national Day of the Deployed. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-more-than-1-million-in-funding-for-north-dakota-schools,Hoeven Announces More than $1 Million in Funding for North Dakota Schools,2016-10-25,2016,2016-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.25.16 Hoeven Announces More than $1 Million in Funding for North Dakota Schools WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Education (ED) has awarded $1,039,904 to the state of North Dakota to improve schools. The funding is made available through ED's School Improvement Grant (SIG) program which awards states funds, which they can then allocate to schools in greatest need of additional funding to enhance student achievement. The successful future of our state and nation begins with our ability to provide a good education for our children, Hoeven said. Today's funds will help students by improving our schools' ability to provide a strong education. As a member of the Appropriation Committee, Hoeven works to ensure funding is available to support state efforts to improve education. Hoeven also supported the passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act, legislation that restores state and local control over education standards and included a provision based on legislation offered by Hoeven and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to bolster Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-dot-awards-contract-for-united-to-continue-air-service-at-dickinson-airport,Hoeven: DOT Awards Contract for United to Continue Air Service at Dickinson Airport,2016-10-25,2016,2016-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.25.16 Hoeven: DOT Awards Contract for United to Continue Air Service at Dickinson Airport WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded an Essential Air Service contract for United Airlines to continue to provide service at Dickinson Airport. Hoeven has been pressing DOT to expedite the award to prevent any disruptions and ensure reliable air service to the region. We are pleased that DOT has selected United Airlines to continue serving the Dickinson community, said Hoeven. Dependable air travel is necessary to ensure the vitality of the local economy and is important to maintaining the high quality of life people in this community expect. Under the new contract, United Airlines will provide 12 weekly flights to Denver, Colorado on a 50 seat regional jet (ERJ-145) through September 30, 2018. The Dickinson Municipal Airport and the City of Dickinson both supported United's proposal. Following United Airlines announcement that it planned to discontinue air service to Dickinson, Hoeven requested that DOT Secretary Anthony Foxx expedite the agency's essential air service review process and award a new contract as soon as possible for air service at Dickinson Airport. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-today-s-dakota-access-site-tour-increases-understanding-of,CRAMER: Todays Dakota Access Site Tour Increases Understanding of Pipeline Controversy,2016-10-20,2016,2016-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Listen to Audio 1    Listen to Audio 2   Listen to Audio 3 Congressman Kevin Cramer issued the following statement after spending today at the construction site of the Dakota Access Pipeline in Morton County near Lake Oahe. Hosted by Dakota Access Pipeline officials, Cramer joined a group including Standing Rock Sioux Chairman David Archambault, U.S. Corps of Engineers Omaha District Commander Col. John Henderson, Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Historic Preservation Officer John Eagle, North Dakota State Historic Preservation Officer Paul Picha, Cheyenne River Sioux archaeologists and other tribal cultural and historical specialists. “I found today’s construction site examination an invaluable relationship-building experience that helped us better understand North Dakota’s cultural landscape.  I believe those of us on all sides of the Dakota Access Pipeline issue benefited from walking together and sharing our expertise, experiences and expectations. I hope this can help us establish a better understanding going forward.  And, I am certain that after today the Corps of Engineers will feel confident it has the adequate affirmation to issue the final easement to complete the pipeline construction across the Missouri River at Lake Oahe.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z