url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-after-minnesota-dnr-issues-permit-for-permanent-flood-protection-in-red-river-valley,Hoeven Statement After Minnesota DNR Issues Permit for Permanent Flood Protection in Red River Valley,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.27.18 Hoeven Statement After Minnesota DNR Issues Permit for Permanent Flood Protection in Red River Valley Hoeven: The Red River Valley Needs Permanent Flood Protection WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven released the following statement today after the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued a permit for comprehensive flood protection in the Red River Valley. The permit advances Route B, which incorporates the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton. Residents and businesses in the Fargo-Moorhead region need the certainty and security that comes with permanent flood protection,said Hoeven. Today's permit from the Minnesota DNR is an important step that will enable this vital project to advance and is necessary to address the injunction on the project. Getting this permit is necessary as we work to secure additional federal funding for this infrastructure project. As a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven is working to maintain strong support for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' construction account and secure project funding in the coming years. This follows the increased funding Hoeven secured in Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 for the Corps' construction efforts, which helped ensure the Corps included $35 million for construction of flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region in its FY2019 work plan. Hoeven secured provisions in this year's WRDA legislation and the FY2019 Energy and Water funding bill, both of which were signed into law this fall, to move forward with flood protection projects in North Dakota and throughout the country. WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT Resolves easement issue to enable Route B: Hoeven includedhis provision to resolve easements on land purchased with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding. The senator's provision grants the authority needed to implement Route B, the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton. FISCAL YEAR 2019 ENERGY AND WATER FUNDING BILL Increases the Corps' construction accountby $150 million to ensure priorities like flood protection in the Red River Valley continue to receive funding. Implements the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Programto provide states and local governments with low-cost, flexible funding sources when building water infrastructure. The legislation directs the Corps to complete a detailed plan for implementing WIFIA and provides up to $6 million tosupport WIFIA program implementation. This aligns with Hoeven's legislationto extend the WIFIA program. Ensures fair treatment of P3projectsand others that use alternative financing methods during the Corps' cost-benefit analysis, including flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region. The bill requires the Corps to develop a policy on how it will evaluate P3s and incorporate them into its budget. Hoeven also helped advance a provision in the Senate-passed Financial Services and General Government funding bill ensuring the Corps can fund P3s. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-joins-president-as-farm-bill-signed-into-law,Hoeven Joins President as Farm Bill Signed into Law,2018-12-20,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.20.18 Hoeven Joins President as Farm Bill Signed into Law WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today joined President Donald Trump as he signed the 2018 Farm Bill into law. Hoeven served as a member of the farm bill conference committee and successfully secured his provisions in the final farm bill, including: A version of Hoeven's Capital for Farmers and Ranchers Act to ensure producers, including beginning farmers, have access to the credit necessary to start or grow their operations. The bill increases: Farm Service Agency's (FSA) Guaranteed Operation and Ownership Loans from $1.399 million to $1.75 million Direct Operating Loans from $300,000 to $400,000 Direct Ownership Loans from $300,000 to $600,000. Improvements to ARC and PLC: The conference agreement includes Hoeven's proposal to reduce ARC disparities from county to county. It also includes an increase to the plug yield in ARC and uses trend adjusted yields under ARC. The bill updates the PLC program to allow reference prices to increase if commodity prices rise significantly over the years and permits nationwide yield updates. Additionally, farmers will be allowed to make a new election between ARC and PLC in 2019, again in 2021 and annually in the following years. Congress passed the farm bill with broad, bipartisan support because good farm policy benefits every American, every day, said Hoeven. We are pleased that the President has signed this legislation into law. With the many challenges facing farm country, this long-term farm bill will provide our producers with the tools they need to maintain and grow their operations. As a member of the farm bill conference committee, the Senate Agriculture Committee, and chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven also secured the following priorities in the final farm bill: Maintaining Crop Insurance:The farm bill maintains strong crop insurance policy. Sugar Policy:The farm bill maintains strong sugar policy. Increases for Marketing Assistance Loans (MAL): The bill increases MAL, a marketing tool that provides producers interim financing at harvest time to meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are typically at harvest-time lows. Improvements to CRP and Wetland Exemptions:Both Senate and House farm bills make changes to the Conservation Reserve Program. Maintains Private Property Rights: At Hoeven's urging, a proposal to authorize permanent easements was rejected by the conferees in defense of private property rights of farmers and ranchers. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Site Visit: Improves the quality of the wetland appeals process by requiring NRCS to conduct a site visit with the participant after an appeal has been filed. Report on Small Wetlands: Directs the NRCS to report the number of wetland acres in North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa that have been delineated and are less than one acre. Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP): Maintains EQIP and the full suite of other conservation programs. Supports Agricultural Trade: Supports agricultural trade by consolidating and providing strong funding for the Market Access, Foreign Market Development, Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops and the Emerging Market Programs. Ag Research:The final bill maintains strong land-grant formula research funding and includes increased funding for other U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) research programs included in the Senate version. For example, the authorization for the U.S. Wheat and Barley Scab Initiative is increased from $10 million to $15 million, which benefits research conducted at North Dakota State University. Maintains the Water Bank Program. Honey Bee Storage: Includes a Hoeven provision that would allow beekeepers to apply for the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program, which enables successful applicants to obtain low-interest loans for construction of farm storage facilities. The storage of beehives is not currently in the acceptable uses of the program, however the Hoeven language would make temporary refrigerated beehive storage facility eligible for the program. Opioid Grant Funding for Rural Communities: Includes legislation Hoeven sponsored to help rural communities combat the opioid abuse epidemic. The legislation directs the USDA Rural Health and Safety Education Competitive Grants Program to give priority to applicants in rural communities that would use the grants for substance abuse education, treatment and prevention efforts. FARMERS FIRST Act: Includes Hoeven-cosponsored provisions to assist states with establishing helplines, training and support groups as well as reestablish the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) and a new Farm and Ranch Stress Assessment Committee. CROPS for Indian Country Act: Hoeven secured key provisions from his bipartisan CROPS for Indian Country Act that will promote agribusiness in Indian Country and strengthen Tribal self-governance for USDA programs, including expanded support for Tribal Colleges and Universities, as well as continuation of the USDA Tribal Advisory Committee to provide technical assistance to the Secretary of Agriculture. The bill also includes a technical fix for names of Tribal Colleges and Universities including Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College in New Town, ND. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-creating-good-jobs-is-essential-to-growing-our-state-and-communities,Hoeven: Creating Good Jobs Is Essential to Growing Our State and Communities,2018-12-19,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.18 Hoeven: Creating Good Jobs Is Essential to Growing Our State and Communities WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the U.S. Census Bureau released estimates showing that North Dakota has reached a record-high population. As of July, North Dakota had an estimated population of 760,077 residents, an increase of nearly 5,000 over the previous year. North Dakota continues to demonstrate how essential a strong economy is to growing our state and its communities, Hoeven said. That's why job creation has been job number one throughout my time as governor and now in the U.S. Senate. This focus has helped make our state one of the fastest growing since 2010 as well as one of the youngest states in the nation. Americans are looking for better opportunities for themselves and their families, and the policies we've advanced to create the right climate for job growth have helped bring folks from across the country to North Dakota and kept them here. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-helps-pass-bipartisan-legislation-to-reform-federal-criminal-justice-system-reauthorize-second-chance-act,"Hoeven Helps Pass Bipartisan Legislation to Reform Federal Criminal Justice System, Reauthorize Second Chance Act",2018-12-18,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.18.18 Hoeven Helps Pass Bipartisan Legislation to Reform Federal Criminal Justice System, Reauthorize Second Chance Act Senator Pushed to Include Changes to Better Ensure Public Safety, Prevent Release of High Risk Offenders WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today helped pass the First Step Act, bipartisan legislation that reforms the federal criminal justice system and reauthorizes the Second Chance Act. The Second Chance Act provides support to state and local governments in reducing prison costs and improving public safety by preventing repeat offenses and violent crime. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven has worked to support programs under this legislation, which have benefitted criminal justice and rehabilitation efforts in North Dakota. Hoeven supported the legislation after a previous version was modified to address many of the concerns from the National Sheriffs' Association, including preventing supervised release for certain offenders such as those who are at a high risk for recidivism, committed violent or sexual crimes or were convicted of trafficking fentanyl. We advanced this legislation to better focus our criminal justice system on rehabilitation and preventing repeat offenses and to help address the costs of the growing federal prison population, said Hoeven. We appreciate Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley for working with the nation's law enforcement stakeholders to ensure the bill accomplishes these goals without risking public safety. Further, we welcome the reauthorization of the Second Chance Act, which has provided important tools to North Dakota in helping previous offenders become productive members of their communities as they are released from the justice system. The First Step Act creates a risk and needs assessment system under the Federal Bureau of Prisons, wherein minimum and low risk offenders can earn time credits toward supervised release for participating in recidivism reduction programs and other activities, including mental health treatment, education and job training. Priority is given to prisoners who are within two years of release, and the bill provides for reassessment of those within five years of release to determine appropriate programming for reducing recidivism. The legislation also reforms federal guidelines for mandatory minimum sentences and provides judges with tools to reduce sentences for those with little to no criminal history. Specifically, the bill limits qualifying prior convictions, as they apply to mandatory minimums, to serious drug felonies that occurred within 15 years and, at the same time, expands qualified convictions to include serious violent felonies. Due to these reforms, not only does the bill focus on sentence reduction for those with just minor offenses, such as misdemeanors or nonviolent drug possession, it also empowers prosecutors to target high-risk, repeat offenders by including violent felonies as a qualifying prior conviction for sentence enhancements. This gives prosecutors an additional tool to protect the public from violent offenders. The legislation is supported by President Trump, the American Correctional Association, Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, Fraternal Order of Police, International Association of Chiefs of Police, National District Attorney's Association, National Governors Association and the International Union of Police Associations. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-texas-judges-obamacare-ruling,Hoeven Statement on Texas Judges Obamacare Ruling,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.18 Hoeven Statement on Texas Judge's Obamacare Ruling WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement regarding a ruling on Obamacare by a federal judge in Texas: As part of tax relief legislation, Congress removed the Obamacare individual mandate penalty. The Texas Court ruled that without the individual mandate, the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional. This is the first step in what will be a lengthy legal process that could go all the way to the Supreme Court. As such, the law is not changed until the Supreme Court rules. Costs have more than doubled under Obamacare, with families facing increased premiums and higher deductibles, as well as limited health insurance options in many regions of the country, including North Dakota. We need to replace Obamacare with patient-centered health care that provides greater choice and competition to lower costs. At the same time, we need to maintain coverage for those with pre-existing conditions. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-welcomes-second-round-of-trade-assistance-for-agriculture-producers-impacted-by-ongoing-trade-negotiations,Hoeven Welcomes Second Round of Trade Assistance for Agriculture Producers Impacted by Ongoing Trade Negotiations,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.18 Hoeven Welcomes Second Round of Trade Assistance for Agriculture Producers Impacted by Ongoing Trade Negotiations Senator Urged President, OMB, USDA to Release Payments in Timely Fashion, Ensure Assistance Best Meet the Needs of North Dakota's Farmers WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) launched the second round of trade assistance for agriculture producers impacted by ongoing trade negotiations. Hoeven has been urging USDA officials, including Secretary Sonny Perdue and Deputy Secretary Stephen Censky, as well as Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney to move the payments forward in a timely manner and ensure the assistance best meets the needs of North Dakota's farmers. We appreciate USDA and the administration for working with us and heeding our call to provide this assistance to farmers and ranchers, Hoeven said. Although we have made recent progress, including the soybean purchase from China and securing a new free agreement with Canada and Mexico, times are tough in farm country. Trade assistance and the recently-passed farm bill provide much-needed certainty for our agriculture producers as these negotiations continue. The senator spoke with Mulvaney on this issue just last week and has been working with Perdue and Censky since before the first round of assistance was released in August. Hoeven also followed up on these efforts by sending a bipartisan letter with Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.) to the President, pressing for the release of the second half of trade assistance. -###- 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/president-signs-hoevens-legislation-enabling-homeowners-around-patterson-lake-and-jamestown-reservoir-to-purchase-lots,President Signs Hoevens Legislation Enabling Homeowners Around Patterson Lake & Jamestown Reservoir to Purchase Lots,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.18 President Signs Hoeven's Legislation Enabling Homeowners Around Patterson Lake & Jamestown Reservoir to Purchase Lots WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven announced that the President has signed into law S. 440 and S. 2074, legislation that Hoeven authored to enable homeowners around Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir to purchase their lots. Congress passed Hoeven's amended legislation last month. Now that our legislation has been signed into law, the land around Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir will be transferred to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department and the Stutsman County Park Board respectively, Hoeven said. Individuals with homes at Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir will be able to purchase their lots, which is an important opportunity for them to secure the property that they have developed. We appreciate all who worked with us to advance our legislation including the local homeowner associations and state, local and federal officials. Patterson Lake Legislation Hoeven introduced S.440, legislation to transfer lots at Patterson Lake in February 2017. Specifically, the legislation: Transfers 41 cabin lots, and additional recreation and wildlife management lands, to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department. It also transfers a parcel of land, currently being leased, to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. Jamestown Reservoir Legislation After working with homeowners and local officials in Jamestown, Hoeven introduced S. 2074 in the Senate in November 2017. The Jamestown Reservoir legislation: Permanently transfers federal lands around Jamestown Reservoir including 71 permitted exclusive use cabin lots, two campgrounds, a park and unpurchased lots to the Stutsman County Park Board and the North Dakota Game and Fish at no cost. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The BOR would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. The bills are cosponsored by Senator Heidi Heitkamp and Congressman Kevin Cramer introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-farm-bill-passage-an-important-step-in-providing-certainty-for-farmers-and-ranchers,Hoeven: Farm Bill Passage an Important Step in Providing Certainty for Farmers and Ranchers,2018-12-15,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.18 Hoeven: Farm Bill Passage an Important Step in Providing Certainty for Farmers and Ranchers At ND Farmers Union State Convention, Senator Outlines Provisions He Secured in Farm Bill, Efforts to Advance Second Half of Trade Assistance BISMARCK, N.D. At the North Dakota Farmers Union state convention today, Senator John Hoeven outlined his efforts to provide certainty for farmers and ranchers. This includes passing a strong farm bill, which the Senate and House approved this week. As a member of the farm bill conference committee and the Senate Agriculture Committee, as well as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, the senator secured important provisions in the farm bill, including expanded access to credit for producers and his proposal to reduce disparities under the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) program. The legislation passed the Senate by a vote of 87 to 13, and it is now headed to the President to be signed into law. Hoeven also highlighted his work to advance the second half of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) trade assistance to help producers impacted by ongoing trade negotiations. The senator spoke this week with Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney to help move this assistance forward. Hoeven has also been urging USDA officials, including Secretary Sonny Perdue and Deputy Secretary Stephen Censky, to ensure the second round of assistance best meets the needs of North Dakota's farmers and to release the payments in a timely manner. Our farmers and ranchers are facing real challenges, between trade uncertainty, bad weather and low commodity prices, said Hoeven. Our agriculture producers work hard to provide our nation with the highest quality, lowest cost food supply in the world, and they deserve our support. The passage of the farm bill is a vital part of this effort and gives producers certainty through strong risk management tools, like crop insurance as well as ARC and PLC, and also provides better access to capital to help them maintain their operations. At the same time, we are working to help weather trade negotiations. The recent soybean order from China is a good step, but farmers still need support. That's why we are urging OMB and USDA to advance the second round of trade assistance. Hoeven worked to include the following priorities in the final farm bill: Maintaining Crop Insurance:The farm bill maintains strong crop insurance policy. Increased Access to Capital: The bill includes a version of Hoeven's Capital for Farmers and Ranchers Act to provide producers, including beginning farmers, with greater access to the capital necessary to start or grow their operations. The bill increases the Farm Service Agency's (FSA) Guaranteed Operation and Ownership Loans from $1.399 million to $1.75 million, Direct Operating Loans from $300,000 to $400,000 and Direct Ownership Loans from $300,000 to $600,000. Improvements to ARC and Price Loss Coverage (PLC): Hoeven worked to build on strengths in the commodity title from both the Senate and House bills. The conference agreement includes Hoeven's proposal to reduce ARC disparities from county to county. It also includes an increase to the plug yield in ARC and uses trend adjusted yields under ARC. The bill updates the PLC program to allow reference prices to increase. Additionally, farmers will be allowed to make a new election between ARC and PLC in 2019, again in 2021 and annually in the following years. Sugar Policy:The farm bill maintains strong sugar policy. Increases for Marketing Assistance Loans (MAL): The bill increases MAL, a marketing tool that helps producers meet cash flow needs at harvest time without having to sell their commodities during the typical harvest-time low prices. Improvements to CRP and Wetland Exemptions:Both Senate and House farm bills make changes to the Conservation Reserve Program. Maintains Private Property Rights: At Hoeven's urging, a proposal to authorize permanent easements was rejected by the conferees in defense of the private property rights of farmers and ranchers. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Site Visit: Improves the quality of the wetland appeals process by requiring NRCS to conduct a site visit with the participant after an appeal has been filed. Report on Small Wetlands: Directs the NRCS to report the number of wetland acres in North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa that have been delineated and are less than one acre. Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP): Maintains EQIP and the full suite of other conservation programs. Supports Agricultural Trade: Supports agricultural trade by consolidating and providing strong funding for the Market Access, Foreign Market Development, Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops and the Emerging Market Programs. Ag Research:The final bill maintains strong land-grant formula research funding. It also includes increased funding from the Senate version for other USDA research programs, including the U.S. Wheat and Barley Scab Initiative, which benefits research conducted at North Dakota State University. Maintains the Water Bank Program. Honey Bee Storage: Includes a Hoeven provision that make beekeepers eligible to apply to the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program for low-interest loans to support the construction of temporary refrigerated beehive storage facilities. Opioid Grant Funding for Rural Communities: Includes legislation Hoeven sponsored to help rural communities combat the opioid abuse epidemic through the USDA Rural Health and Safety Education Competitive Grants Program. FARMERS FIRST Act: Includes Hoeven-cosponsored provisions to assist states with establishing helplines, training and support groups as well as reestablish the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) and a new Farm and Ranch Stress Assessment Committee. CROPS for Indian Country Act: Hoeven secured key provisions from his bipartisan CROPS for Indian Country Act that will promote agribusiness in Indian Country and strengthen Tribal self-governance for USDA programs. -###- 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-and-udall-introduce-legislation-to-improve-hiring-process-for-bureau-of-indian-affairs-law-enforcement,Hoeven and Udall Introduce Legislation to Improve Hiring Process for Bureau of Indian Affairs Law Enforcement,2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.18 Hoeven and Udall Introduce Legislation to Improve Hiring Process for Bureau of Indian Affairs Law Enforcement Bill Would Help Address Background Check Backlog, Increase Number of Qualified BIA Law Enforcement Officials WASHINGTON Senators John Hoeven (R-ND), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and Tom Udall (D-NM), Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs introduced legislation this week to help improve the hiring process for Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) law enforcement positions. The legislation would put in place a demonstration program enabling the BIA to conduct background checks for the agency's law enforcement positions. Currently, the BIA runs their background checks through the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), which often takes as long as 12 to 18 months to complete the investigation. This legislation would establish a demonstration program within the BIA to help address the backlog of background checks for those seeking to become BIA law enforcement officers. BIA law enforcement positions often go unfilled due to a lengthy background check process. It is critical that we fill those vacancies with qualified individuals and give BIA law enforcement the support they need, Hoeven said. This legislation will give BIA the authority to conduct their own background checks and fill those positions in a timely manner. As I pointed out in the Indian Affairs Committee's hearing on missing and murdered Indigenous women, one of the biggest public safety issues facing Indian Country is the need for more law enforcement personnel. When qualified candidates apply for Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement positions, they often face a needlessly cumbersome and lengthy hiring process which sometimes stretches out for a year or more. This discourages applicants and worsens the officer shortage in tribal communities. That is totally unacceptable, said Udall. I'm glad Senator Hoeven and I were able to work together on this bipartisan legislation. It is an important step in the right direction that would cut red tape and improve the background check process so that we can put more officers on the ground in Native communities to help keep Indian Country safe. The bill: Gives the Secretary of the Interior authority to conduct background investigations for law enforcement positions within the BIA for the duration of the demonstration program. Directs the Secretary to consider prior background checks in the process of their investigation. Gives the Secretary the authority to enter into memorandums of agreement with State, Local, and Tribal governments to expedite the process. Sets forth reporting requirements for BIA, and requires GAO to review the program to ensure the program's integrity. -###- 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-leads-bipartisan-bicameral-group-in-pressing-to-modernize-tax-credit-to-help-advance-the-use-of-ccs-technology,"Hoeven Leads Bipartisan, Bicameral Group in Pressing to Modernize Tax Credit to Help Advance the Use of CCS Technology",2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.18 Hoeven Leads Bipartisan, Bicameral Group in Pressing to Modernize Tax Credit to Help Advance the Use of CCS Technology Senator Worked with Energy Stakeholders to Craft Solution, Ensure Standards Are Technically & Economically Feasible for CCS Retrofit Projects WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven this week led a bipartisan group of Senators and Congressmen in urging the leaders of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee to include a provision in upcoming legislation supporting the use of carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technology. Our energy industry is constantly innovating and developing the technologies that will ensure America's energy security while also improving environmental stewardship, said Hoeven. We need to make sure that the standards we put in place actually accomplish the goal of reducing emissions. The Section 48A tax credit currently imposes requirements that don't reflect the technical and commercial realities of using CCS technology. We've worked to craft a legislative solution and are pressing for its inclusion in end-of-the-year tax legislation. Doing so will support the adoption of this technology and enable us to realize its full potential. Basin Electric appreciates Senator Hoeven's leadership in supporting improvements to the 48A tax credit for advanced coal projects. This incentive is important to help the utility industry continue implementing solutions to reduce emissions from coal-based power plants and explore future options to keep coal in the generation mix as a reliable and affordable fuel source, said Paul Sukut, CEO and General Manager of Basin Electric. The 300 members of the Lignite Energy Council appreciate the support demonstrated by North Dakota's Congressional Delegation to both modify and extend an important tax incentive that will help boost clean coal technology. We are deeply committed to advanced generation technologies, in terms of dollars, time and resources. The 48A tax credit is one more arrow in our quiver as we bridge from traditional generation systems to advanced systems that are more efficient and increasingly clean. said Jason Bohrer, President and CEO of the Lignite Energy Council. Thank you to Senator Hoeven for his efforts on putting together this notable letter, it's both bi-partisan with key policymakers as signatories.Making small changes to section 48A can really have a big impact to spur the development of carbon capture retrofit projects across the country, including Project Tundra.Thank you to Senator Hoeven and each of the co-signers for their leadership on this issue, said Mac McLennan, President and CEO of Minnkota Power. Hoeven has been working with energy stakeholders to address the efficiency and performance standards under the Section 48A tax credit, which incentivizes investment in clean coal facilities. The tax credit was first established in 2005, and CO2 capture projects were made eligible in 2008. However, the eligibility standards for the credit are not technically or economically feasible for CCS retrofit projects, like Project Tundra. Accordingly, Hoeven and his colleagues are pressing for reforms to the standards that reflect the capabilities of existing technology, which will help promote the adoption of CCS technology and reduce emissions. In addition to Hoeven, the letter was signed by Senators Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), as well as Congressmen Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), David McKinley (R-W.Va.) and Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.). The full text of the group's letter can be found here. Today's effort dovetails with Hoeven's CO2 Regulatory Certainty Act, which would ensure developers of CCS projects can use the Section 45Q tax credit, as well as his legislation to extend the Section 45 refined coal tax credit. Further, it builds on his efforts as a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee. Through this role, Hoeven secured the following priorities in the Fiscal Year 2019 funding legislation that was recently signed into law: $30 million to support the development of commercial-scale carbon capture technology to be retrofitted on an existing power plant, funding for which the next phase ofProject Tundrawould be eligible. $25 million to develop supercritical CO2technologies for coal and natural gas plants like theAllam Cycle. Increased funding for the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) carbon capture and storage research programs. A provision supporting DOE's cooperative agreements with institutions like the Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) at the University of 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-presses-for-trade-assistance-to-continue-helping-producers-impacted-by-trade-negotiations,Hoeven Presses for Trade Assistance to Continue Helping Producers Impacted by Trade Negotiations,2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.18 Hoeven Presses for Trade Assistance to Continue Helping Producers Impacted by Trade Negotiations WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, spoke this week with Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney to outline the importance of providing the second half of trade assistance to help producers impacted by trade negotiations. I'm encouraged that China is starting to buy soybeans from U.S. producers. At the same time, I called OMB Director Mulvaney and emphasized that it is very important that the USDA continue with the trade assistance payment for our farmers, said Hoeven. We want to see both that assistance, as well as China coming back into the market to buy our agriculture products. In August, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) rolled out the first half of its trade assistance to aid producers while the Administration works to negotiate better trade deals for the nation. Hoeven is encouraging both OMB and USDA to provide the second half of support for farmers. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-urges-president-to-advance-keystone-xl-pipeline-project-in-bicameral-letter,Hoeven Urges President to Advance Keystone XL Pipeline Project in Bicameral Letter,2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.14.18 Hoeven Urges President to Advance Keystone XL Pipeline Project in Bicameral Letter In 114th Congress, Senator Introduced Legislation Passed by Congress to Approve Pipeline Project WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven and Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.) today led a bicameral letter with of 42 Senators and Representatives urging the President to take immediate action to advance construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline. The Keystone XL Pipeline is all about upgrading important energy infrastructure to support our economy and create jobs, Hoeven said. In addition to creating thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in capital investment, the project will also reduce our dependence on Middle Eastern oil while helping to transport oil more quickly and safely. That's why I urge the President to take any appropriate action to ensure construction on this important project resumes as soon as possible. In addition to Hoeven and Daines, the letter was signed by Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), James Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Thune (R-S.D.) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), as well as twenty-seven members of the House of Representatives including Congressman Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.). The full text of the group's letter can be found here. In the 114th Congress, Hoeven introduced S.1, legislation to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline on constitutional grounds. The bill passed with bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House, but was then vetoed by President Obama, who had delayed the project for more than seven years. Last March, the Trump Administration approved the permit to build the pipeline, but construction on the project was recently halted by a federal court decision in Montana. -###- Print Email Tweet 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-290000-grant-to-expand-all-nations-veterans-cemetery-in-fort-yates,"Hoeven Announces More Than $290,000 Grant to Expand All Nations Veterans Cemetery in Fort Yates",2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.18 Hoeven Announces More Than $290,000 Grant to Expand All Nations Veterans Cemetery in Fort Yates WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has awarded a $291,060 grant to the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. The funds will be used to expand the All Nations Veterans Cemetery in Fort Yates, developing approximately eight acres. Last year, the VA provided a $4.9 million grant to build the cemetery. Native Americans serve in the military at a higher rate per capita than any other ethnic group, said Hoeven. We are committed to honoring our veterans and today's funding will ensure that the families of veterans from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and surrounding region have a proper place to remember their loved ones. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-congress-sends-farm-bill-to-the-president,Hoeven: Congress Sends Farm Bill to the President,2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.18 Hoeven: Congress Sends Farm Bill to the President Senator Outlines Provisions He Secured to Support ND Producers, including Increased Access to Capital and ARC Improvements WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) today released the following statement after Congress passed the 2018 Farm Bill, sending it to the President to be signed into law. The Senate approved the measure yesterday by a vote of 87 to 13 and the House approved the bill today. Hoeven outlined the importance of good farm policy for the nation's farmers and ranchers, as well as important provisions he secured for North Dakota producers, including: Increased Access to Capital: The bill includes a version of Hoeven's Capital for Farmers and Ranchers Act to provide producers, including beginning farmers, with greater access to the capital necessary to start or grow their operations. The bill increases Farm Service Agency's (FSA) Guaranteed Operation and Ownership Loans from $1.399 million to $1.75 million, Direct Operating Loans from $300,000 to $400,000 and Direct Ownership Loans from $300,000 to $600,000. Improvements to ARC and PLC: Hoeven worked to build on strengths in the commodity title from both the Senate and House bills. The conference agreement includes Hoeven's proposal to reduce ARC disparities from county to county. It also includes an increase to the plug yield in ARC and uses trend adjusted yields under ARC. The bill updates the PLC program to allow reference prices to increase if commodity prices rise significantly over the years and permits nationwide yield updates. Additionally, farmers will be allowed to make a new election between ARC and PLC in 2019, again in 2021 and annually in the following years. We passed the farm bill with broad, bipartisan support and by building on the strengths of both the Senate and House versions, said Hoeven. We look forward to the President signing the bill into law. This long-term farm bill is important, not just for our farmers and ranchers, but for every American. That is because all of us benefit from the highest quality, lowest cost food supply every day. As a member of the farm bill conference committee and the Senate Agriculture Committee, as well as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven also worked to include the following priorities in the final farm bill: Maintaining Crop Insurance:The farm bill maintains strong crop insurance policy. Sugar Policy:The farm bill maintains strong sugar policy. Increases for Marketing Assistance Loans (MAL): The bill increases MAL, a marketing tool that provides producers interim financing at harvest time to meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are typically at harvest-time lows. Improvements to CRP and Wetland Exemptions:Both Senate and House farm bills make changes to the Conservation Reserve Program. Maintains Private Property Rights: At Hoeven's urging, a proposal to authorize permanent easements was rejected by the conferees in defense of private property rights of farmers and ranchers. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Site Visit: Improves the quality of the wetland appeals process by requiring NRCS to conduct a site visit with the participant after an appeal has been filed. Report on Small Wetlands: Directs the NRCS to report the number of wetland acres in North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa that have been delineated and are less than one acre. Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP): Maintains EQIP and the full suite of other conservation programs. Supports Agricultural Trade: Supports agricultural trade by consolidating and providing strong funding for the Market Access, Foreign Market Development, Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops and the Emerging Market Programs. Ag Research:The final bill maintains strong land-grant formula research funding and includes increased funding for other U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) research programs included in the Senate version. For example, the authorization for the U.S. Wheat and Barley Scab Initiative is increased from $10 million to $15 million, which benefits research conducted at North Dakota State University. Maintains the Water Bank Program. Honey Bee Storage: Includes a Hoeven provision that would allow beekeepers to apply for the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program, which enables successful applicants to obtain low-interest loans for construction of farm storage facilities. The storage of beehives is not currently in the acceptable uses of the program, however the Hoeven language would make temporary refrigerated beehive storage facility eligible for the program. Opioid Grant Funding for Rural Communities: Includes legislation Hoeven sponsored to help rural communities combat the opioid abuse epidemic. The legislation directs the USDA Rural Health and Safety Education Competitive Grants Program to give priority to applicants in rural communities that would use the grants for substance abuse education, treatment and prevention efforts. FARMERS FIRST Act: Includes Hoeven-cosponsored provisions to assist states with establishing helplines, training and support groups as well as reestablish the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) and a new Farm and Ranch Stress Assessment Committee. CROPS for Indian Country Act: Hoeven secured key provisions from his bipartisan CROPS for Indian Country Act that will promote agribusiness in Indian Country and strengthen Tribal self-governance for USDA programs, including expanded support for Tribal Colleges and Universities, as well as continuation of the USDA Tribal Advisory Committee to provide technical assistance to the Secretary of Agriculture. The bill also includes a technical fix for names of Tribal Colleges and Universities including Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College in New Town, ND. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-joins-epa-and-army-corps-in-announcing-regulatory-relief-under-waters-of-the-us-rule,Hoeven Joins EPA and Army Corps in Announcing Regulatory Relief Under Waters of the U.S. Rule,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.18 Hoeven Joins EPA and Army Corps in Announcing Regulatory Relief Under Waters of the U.S. Rule Senator Worked to Defund WOTUS Implementation in 2016 & 2017, Provide Certainty & Alleviate Burdens on Agriculture Producers, Impacted Industries WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today joined administration officials, including Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke and Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works R.D. James, as well as leaders from the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Association of Home Builders and the National Association of Manufacturers in announcing new regulatory relief under the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule. The proposed changes recognize the primary role of states and tribes in managing water resources within their borders and will help ensure the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers do not exceed the authority granted by Congress under the Clean Water Act. This is the second of two steps established by the executive order the President signed last year to rescind or revise the Obama-era regulation, which was finalized in 2015. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven authored and secured provisions to defund the rule in 2016 and 2017, in an effort to prevent its implementation. This revised WOTUS rule helps restore the regulatory primacy of states and tribes and provides certainty throughout our economy, including for our farmers and ranchers, said Hoeven. This is especially important in North Dakota and the rest of the prairie pothole region, where the previous administration's rule would have imposed significant burdens on a majority of landowners, just due to the presence of temporary and seasonal standing water. That's why we worked hard to provide this regulatory relief, and we appreciate Acting Administrator Wheeler, Assistant Secretary James, Secretary Zinke and all of our partners in working with us to advance this priority. Once finalized, the revised WOTUS rule would apply nationwide and replace the patchwork of regulations that came as a result of litigation against the 2015 rule. Specifically, the proposal announced today: Covers only those waters that are physically and meaningfully connected to traditional navigable waters. Does not apply to short-lived water features that result from rainfall or to wetlands physically separated from navigable waters by, for example, a berm, levee or upland. Would not include most farm and roadside ditches. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-senate-passage-of-farm-bill-conference-committee-report,Hoeven Statement on Senate Passage of Farm Bill Conference Committee Report,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.11.18 Hoeven Statement on Senate Passage of Farm Bill Conference Committee Report WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) today released the following statement after the Senate passed the conference committee's report to the 2018 Farm Bill by a vote of 87 to 13. The bill now goes to the House for final passage. We were able to get agreement in the Senate, moved our vote up to today and approved the final farm bill with strong bipartisan support, said Hoeven. This is good news for our farmers and ranchers who produce the highest quality, lowest cost food in the world because our five-year farm bill will help them navigate tough times. Good farm policy benefits every American, every day, and our conference committee report incorporates strong provisions to provide our ag producers with the tools they need to succeed. As a member of the farm bill conference committee and the Senate Agriculture Committee, as well as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven worked to include the following priorities in the final farm bill: Maintaining Crop Insurance:The farm bill maintains strong crop insurance policy. Improving Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) & Price Loss Coverage (PLC):Hoeven worked to build on strengths in the commodity title from both the Senate and House bills. The conference agreement includes Hoeven's proposal to reduce ARC disparities from county to county. It also includes an increase to the plug yield in ARC and uses trend adjusted yields under ARC. The bill updates the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program to allow reference prices to increase if commodity prices rise significantly over the years and permits nationwide yield updates. Additionally, farmers will be allowed to make a new election between ARC and PLC in 2019, again in 2021 and annually in the following years. Sugar Policy:The farm bill maintains strong sugar policy. Increases for Marketing Assistance Loans (MAL): The bill increases MAL, a marketing tool that provides producers interim financing at harvest time to meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are typically at harvest-time lows. FSA Guaranteed and Direct Loans:The senator worked to maintain FSA loan increases he included in the Senate bill during conference. It increases Farm Service Agency's (FSA) Guaranteed Operation and Ownership Loans from $1.399 million to $1.75 million, Direct Operating Loans from $300,000 to $400,000 and Direct Ownership Loans from $300,000 to $600,000. Improvements to CRP and Wetland Exemptions:Both Senate and House farm bills make changes to the Conservation Reserve Program. Maintains Private Property Rights: At Hoeven's urging, a proposal to authorize permanent easements was rejected by the conferees in defense of private property rights of farmers and ranchers. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Site Visit: Improves the quality of the wetland appeals process by requiring NRCS to conduct a site visit with the participant after an appeal has been filed. Report on Small Wetlands: Directs the NRCS to report the number of wetland acres in North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa that have been delineated and are less than one acre. Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP): Maintains EQIP and the full suite of other conservation programs. Supports Agricultural Trade: Supports agricultural trade by consolidating and providing strong funding for the Market Access, Foreign Market Development, Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops and the Emerging Market Programs. Ag Research:The final bill maintains strong land-grant formula research funding and includes increased funding for other USDA research programs included in the Senate version. For example, the authorization for the U.S. Wheat and Barley Scab Initiative is increased from $10 million to $15 million, which benefits research conducted at North Dakota State University. Maintains the Water Bank Program. Honey Bee Storage: Includes a Hoeven provision that would allow beekeepers to apply for the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program, which enables successful applicants to obtain low-interest loans for construction of farm storage facilities. The storage of beehives is not currently in the acceptable uses of the program, however the Hoeven language would make temporary refrigerated beehive storage facility eligible for the program. Opioid Grant Funding for Rural Communities: Includes legislation Hoeven sponsored to help rural communities combat the opioid abuse epidemic. The legislation directs the USDA Rural Health and Safety Education Competitive Grants Program to give priority to applicants in rural communities that would use the grants for substance abuse education, treatment and prevention efforts. FARMERS FIRST Act: Includes Hoeven-cosponsored provisions to assist states with establishing helplines, training and support groups as well as reestablish the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) and a new Farm and Ranch Stress Assessment Committee. CROPS for Indian Country Act: Hoeven secured key provisions from his bipartisan CROPS for Indian Country Act that will promote agribusiness in Indian Country and strengthen Tribal self-governance for USDA programs, including expanded support for Tribal Colleges and Universities, as well as continuation of the USDA Tribal Advisory Committee to provide technical assistance to the Secretary of Agriculture. The bill also includes a technical fix for names of Tribal Colleges and Universities including Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College in New Town, ND. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-farm-bill-conference-committee-agreement,Hoeven Statement on Farm Bill Conference Committee Agreement,2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.10.18 Hoeven Statement on Farm Bill Conference Committee Agreement WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) today released the following statement after signing the 2018 Farm Bill conference report, which strengthens the farm safety net and provides important tools to help see North Dakota farmers and ranchers through hard times. Hoeven is a member of the conference committee, the fourth highest ranking majority member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and the chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee. Our producers need the certainty that comes with the passage of a five-year farm bill, Hoeven said. Good farm policy benefits every American, every day, and that's why we we're working to pass the final farm bill before the end of the year. We worked hard with our fellow conferees to find agreement and now we need to pass this legislation as soon as possible. This long-term farm bill provides producers with the tools they need to succeed now and in the coming years. Hoeven outlined priorities he worked to include in the final farm bill, including: Maintaining Crop Insurance:The farm bill maintains strong crop insurance policy. Improving Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) & Price Loss Coverage (PLC):Hoeven worked to build on strengths in the commodity title from both the Senate and House bills. The conference agreement includes Hoeven's proposal to reduce ARC disparities from county to county. It also includes an increase to the plug yield in ARC and uses trend adjusted yields under ARC. The bill updates the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program to allow reference prices to increase if commodity prices rise significantly over the years and permits nationwide yield updates. Additionally, farmers will be allowed to make a new election between ARC and PLC in 2019, again in 2021 and annually in the following years. Sugar Policy:The farm bill maintains strong sugar policy. Increases for Marketing Assistance Loans (MAL): The bill increases MAL, a marketing tool that provides producers interim financing at harvest time to meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are typically at harvest-time lows. FSA Guaranteed and Direct Loans:The senator worked to maintain FSA loan increases he included in the Senate bill during conference. It increases Farm Service Agency's (FSA) Guaranteed Operation and Ownership Loans from $1.399 million to $1.75 million, Direct Operating Loans from $300,000 to $400,000 and Direct Ownership Loans from $300,000 to $600,000. Improvements to CRP and Wetland Exemptions:Both Senate and House farm bills make changes to the Conservation Reserve Program. Maintains Private Property Rights: At Hoeven's urging, a proposal to authorize permanent easements was rejected by the conferees in defense of private property rights of farmers and ranchers. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Site Visit: Improves the quality of the wetland appeals process by requiring NRCS to conduct a site visit with the participant after an appeal has been filed. Report on Small Wetlands: Directs the NRCS to report the number of wetland acres in North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa that have been delineated and are less than one acre. Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP): Maintains EQIP and the full suite of other conservation programs. Supports Agricultural Trade: Supports agricultural trade by consolidating and providing strong funding for the Market Access, Foreign Market Development, Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops and the Emerging Market Programs. Ag Research:The final bill maintains strong land-grant formula research funding and includes increased funding for other USDA research programs included in the Senate version. For example, the authorization for the U.S. Wheat and Barley Scab Initiative is increased from $10 million to $15 million, which benefits research conducted at North Dakota State University. Maintains the Water Bank Program. Honey Bee Storage: Includes a Hoeven provision that would allow beekeepers to apply for the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program, which enables successful applicants to obtain low-interest loans for construction of farm storage facilities. The storage of beehives is not currently in the acceptable uses of the program, however the Hoeven language would make temporary refrigerated beehive storage facility eligible for the program. Opioid Grant Funding for Rural Communities: Includes legislation Hoeven sponsored to help rural communities combat the opioid abuse epidemic. The legislation directs the USDA Rural Health and Safety Education Competitive Grants Program to give priority to applicants in rural communities that would use the grants for substance abuse education, treatment and prevention efforts. FARMERS FIRST Act: Includes Hoeven-cosponsored provisions to assist states with establishing helplines, training and support groups as well as reestablish the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) and a new Farm and Ranch Stress Assessment Committee. CROPS for Indian Country Act: Hoeven secured key provisions from his bipartisan CROPS for Indian Country Act that will promote agribusiness in Indian Country and strengthen Tribal self-governance for USDA programs, including expanded support for Tribal Colleges and Universities, as well as continuation of the USDA Tribal Advisory Committee to provide technical assistance to the Secretary of Agriculture. The bill also includes a technical fix for names of Tribal Colleges and Universities including Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College in New Town, ND. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/chairman-hoeven-announces-senate-passage-of-savannas-act,Chairman Hoeven Announces Senate Passage of Savannas Act,2018-12-07,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.18 Chairman Hoeven Announces Senate Passage of Savanna's Act WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven (R-ND), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, announced Senate passage of S. 1942, Savanna's Act. The bill will now move to the House of Representatives. S. 1942 is named for Savanna LaFontaine-Greywind from North Dakota, who was tragically murdered in 2017.The bill: Improves tribal access to federal databases that track missing and unidentified persons, specifically American Indians and Alaska Natives. Requires the Department of Justice to consult with Indian tribes while developing national law enforcement and justice guidelines when responding to cases involving missing and murdered Indians. Incentivizes federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to incorporate these guidelines into existing processes. Provides Indian tribes and law enforcement agencies with training and technical assistance relating to the implementation of the guidelines developed under this Act. Mandates annual reporting to Congress on known statistics relating to missing and murdered Indians in the United States. Savanna's Act will provide Indian tribes with better access to databases that track missing and unidentified persons across the country, said Hoeven. This will help bring greater awareness regarding tragic cases of missing and murdered Indians in the United States. S. 1942 was introduced by Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) on October 5, 2017. The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs held a Legislative Hearing to receive testimony on the bill on October 25, 2017. On November 14, 2018, the Committee held a Business Meeting on the bill and ordered it to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. It will now go to the House for consideration. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-usda-finalizes-regulatory-relief-under-school-meal-program,Hoeven: USDA Finalizes Regulatory Relief Under School Meal Program,2018-12-07,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.18 Hoeven: USDA Finalizes Regulatory Relief Under School Meal Program Senator Secured Commitment from Secretary Perdue to Work with Schools, Nutrition Professionals to Ease Regulations WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) finalized a rule providing regulatory relief under the federal Child Nutrition Programs. The rule was initially published last year, after Hoeven secured a commitment from Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to work with him, school nutrition professionals and school districts to ease the regulations. Prior to this, Hoeven secured a provision in annual funding legislation passed last year that granted schools greater flexibility in meeting USDA's whole grains and sodium requirements. Our school nutrition professionals do a tremendous job in providing healthy and nutritious meals that kids will actually eat, said Hoeven. The previous requirements for the federal child nutrition programs set unrealistic, one-size fits-all standards. That's why we worked with Secretary Perdue to advance this flexibility under the final rule, which will empower schools to provide quality meals while still making their budget. Specifically, the rule finalized today would address requirements for: WHOLE GRAINS:Under the previous regulations, all grains offered with school meals were required to be whole grain rich down to the croutons on the fresh salad bar. While schools were able to apply for waivers, Hoeven worked to address concerns with the waiver application and provide longer-term flexibility. This rule allows for half of all grains offered to be whole-grain rich, ending the need for the exemption process. SODIUM: Schools have made great strides in reducing sodium to meet Target 1 sodium levels. However, school nutrition professionals have warned that lower sodium targets will push many healthy options, like low-fat deli sandwiches, soups and salads off the menu, due in part to naturally occurring sodium in foods. In recognition of this, the rule allows schools to remain at Target 1 sodium levels through the 2023-2024 school year, giving schools additional time to meet the Target 2 requirements and adjust to sodium reduction efforts. The final sodium target is eliminated under this rule. MILK: The rule gives schools the option to serve flavored low-fat milk, in addition to the currently allowed unflavored non-fat and low-fat milk and flavored non-fat milk. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-passes-bipartisan-bill-hoeven-cosponsored-to-improve-broadband-availability-for-precision-agriculture,Senate Passes Bipartisan Bill Hoeven Cosponsored to Improve Broadband Availability for Precision Agriculture,2018-12-07,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.07.18 Senate Passes Bipartisan Bill Hoeven Cosponsored to Improve Broadband Availability for Precision Agriculture Legislation Builds on Hoeven's Efforts as Ag Appropriations Chairman to Support Investment in Rural Broadband Infrastructure WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a member of Senate Agriculture Committee, today announced that the Senate has passed bipartisan legislation he cosponsored to improve broadband availability for precision agriculture. Precision agriculture reduces input cost and improves yields, said Hoeven. Farmers and ranchers need dependable access to broadband in order to take full advantage of the wide range of these agriculture technology products. Our legislation will help identify gaps in coverage and ensure we enact solutions to address problem areas. The Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act (S. 2343) requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a task force comprised of public and private sector members to accomplish the following: Identify service gaps for broadband internet access on agricultural land; Create a comprehensive guide of programs and resources working to expand coverage; Develop and recommend policies and programs to address the gaps and achieve 95 percent coverage of croplands and ranchlands by 2025. The bill is sponsored by Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and, in addition to Hoeven, is cosponsored by the following senators: Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Angus King (I-Maine). The legislation is also supported by the Agricultural Broadband Coalition whose members include AGCO, Agricultural Retailers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, Association of Equipment Manufacturers, CNH Industrial, CoBank, John Deere, Lindsay Corporation, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, National Corn Growers, Power and Communication Contractors Association and Trimble. Additionally, the legislation builds on Hoeven's efforts as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, through which he helped secure $600 million in Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 and $425 million in FY2019 to spur investment in broadband for rural and hard-to-serve areas. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-dot-awards-15-million-to-turtle-mountain-for-jack-rabbit-road-reconstruction-project,Hoeven: DOT Awards $15 Million to Turtle Mountain for Jack Rabbit Road Reconstruction Project,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.18 Hoeven: DOT Awards $15 Million to Turtle Mountain for Jack Rabbit Road Reconstruction Project WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Committee, today spoke with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Elaine Chao who told him that DOT has awarded a $15 million BUILD Grant to the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. The funds will be used for the second phase of the Jack Rabbit Road reconstruction project. BUILD Grants have helped advance important infrastructure projects across North Dakota, including those in Minot, Devils Lake, Fort Berthold and the Turtle Mountain Reservation, Hoeven said. Today's investment by DOT will help the tribe rehabilitate the Jack Rabbit Road corridor and make this road safer for those that use it. Infrastructure supports our businesses and economy, and the BUILD Grant program is an important tool for supporting construction and rehabilitation projects. That is why we are committed to working in the Senate Appropriations Committee to ensure robust support for the BUILD Grant program. The BUILD Grant program, formerly known as the TIGER Grant program, supports infrastructure projects of national or regional significance. DOT awarded $6 million to the Jack Rabbit Road project in March. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-rma-provides-crop-insurance-flexibility-for-farmers-facing-delayed-harvest,Hoeven: RMA Provides Crop Insurance Flexibility for Farmers Facing Delayed Harvest,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.18 Hoeven: RMA Provides Crop Insurance Flexibility for Farmers Facing Delayed Harvest Senator Urged Agriculture Secretary Perdue & RMA to Issue Guidance to Farmers, Insurance Companies & Loss Adjustors Prior to December 10th Deadline WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) is providing flexibility for farmers who have been unable to complete harvest prior to December 10, the end date for insurance policies covering most spring-planted crops, including corn and soybeans. This action comes after Hoeven spoke with Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and wrote to the RMA, urging them to issue guidance to farmers, insurance companies and loss adjustors on properly processing delayed crops and filing claims as harvest continues past the deadline. The full text of Hoeven's letter to the RMA can be found here. Our farmers need to know that their insurance policies will cover them when facing long delays in harvest, said Hoeven. We appreciate Secretary Perdue, Under Secretary Northey and RMA Administrator Barbre for working with us to issue this guidance prior to the December 10th deadline. Doing so provides much-needed certainty for our agriculture producers as they work through bad weather and difficult conditions to bring this year's crop out of the field. I appreciate Chairman Hoeven's focus on the needs of our farmers and his efforts to get this guidance to them so they can continue to farm even after bad weather hurts their operations, said USDA Farm Production and Conservation Under Secretary Bill Northey. Due to excessive moisture and snowy conditions, which have continuously delayed this year's harvest, North Dakota had approximately one million acres of corn and 500,000 acres of soybeans still out for harvest at the end of November, much of which will likely remain in the field when the deadline passes. Farmers should contact their insurance agent to discuss extending the time period for attempting harvest and settling any losses based on harvested production. Under RMA's guidance, approved insurance providers may allow additional time to harvest when the following conditions are met: Farmers give timely notice of loss to their crop insurance agent; The approved insurance provider determines and documents that the delay in harvest was due to an insured cause of loss; Farmers demonstrate that harvest was not possible due to insured causes; and The delay in harvest was not due to a lack of sufficient equipment or manpower to harvest the crop by the end of the insurance period. More information on requesting assistance due to delayed harvest can be found on the RMA's website. -###- 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-revised-epa-standards-for-new-coal-generating-power-plants,Hoeven Statement on Revised EPA Standards for New Coal-Generating Power Plants,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.06.18 Hoeven Statement on Revised EPA Standards for New Coal-Generating Power Plants WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today issued the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a proposal to replace regulations from the previous administration governing emissions from new, modified and reconstructed coal-fired power plants. This proposal builds upon our record of providing regulatory relief and certainty, said Hoeven. The previous administration's rule attempted to force standards that were neither technically nor commercially viable. Under these changes, energy producers will be able to continue relying on all of our nation's energy resources and provide affordable and reliable electricity. At the same time, we continue to advance new technologies that will actually empower us to reduce emissions without undermining our nation's energy security. Hoeven continues to support the development of new technologies to reduce emissions from both traditional and renewable energy sources. To this end, Hoeven worked as a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee to secure the following priorities in the Fiscal Year 2019 funding legislation that was recently signed into law: $30 million to support the development of commercial-scale carbon capture technology to be retrofitted on an existing power plant, funding for which the next phase ofProject Tundrawould be eligible. $25 million to develop supercritical CO2technologies for coal and natural gas plants like theAllam Cycle. Increased funding for the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) carbon capture and storage research programs. A provision supporting DOE's cooperative agreements with institutions like the Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) at the University of North Dakota. The senator also continues working to advance hisCO2 Regulatory Certainty Act,which would ensure developers of CCS projects can use the Section 45Q tax credit, as well as an extension of the Section 45refined coal tax credit. -###- Print Email Tweet 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-195-million-in-funding-for-water-infrastructure-projects-in-five-north-dakota-cities,Hoeven Announces More Than $19.5 Million in Funding for Water Infrastructure Projects in Five North Dakota Cities,2018-12-04,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.04.18 Hoeven Announces More Than $19.5 Million in Funding for Water Infrastructure Projects in Five North Dakota Cities WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has awarded a total of $9,426,307 million in grants and $10,136,000 in loans to five North Dakota cities. The funds are awarded through Rural Development's Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants program. Details of the funding are as follows: City of New Rockford $4.526 million grant, $4.734 million loan The funds will be used to replace water mains, paint the water tower and improve the water treatment plant and storm water infrastructure. City of Langdon $2.169 million grant, $2.731 million loan The funds will be used to update and build new water and sanitary sewer main infrastructure, helping to reduce operating costs. City of New Salem $1.613 million grant, $2.084 million loan The funds will be used to replace water and sewer pipes as well as re-surface roads once the pipe replacement is complete. City of Dodge $896,507 grant, $300,000 loan The funds will be used to support efforts to stabilize and improve the wastewater ponds originally constructed over 60 years ago, making currently inoperable parts of the system functional. City of Mercer $221,800 grant, $287,000 loan The funds will be used to construct a new lift station and repair sewer lines, helping to address a health and sanitary issue identified by the North Dakota Department of Health. Every community, regardless of size, needs quality water and waste infrastructure to support its residents and businesses, said Hoeven. Today's water infrastructure investments upgrade many systems that have continued to operate beyond their expected life cycles. These improvements will improve residents' health and make the water and waste infrastructure in Dodge, New Salem, Mercer, New Rockford and Langdon more efficient. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-working-to-increase-federal-funding-for-comprehensive-flood-protection-in-the-red-river-valley,Hoeven Working to Increase Federal Funding for Comprehensive Flood Protection in the Red River Valley,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.03.18 Hoeven Working to Increase Federal Funding for Comprehensive Flood Protection in the Red River Valley FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today outlined his work to increase funding for comprehensive flood protection in the Red River Valley. This will address the increased costs due to Route B, the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton. The new route and associated delays have added $600 million to the cost of the project, in addition to higher financing costs. A new funding plan has been requested by the Diversion Authority where the State of North Dakota and the federal government will each bear $300 million of the new costs. Hoeven has been working with administration officials, including Army Corps Chief Lt. Gen. Todd Semonite, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works R.D. James, Army Corps Deputy Commanding General Scott Spellmon, Army Corps Mississippi Valley Division Commander Maj. Gen. Richard Kaiser and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney, to ensure the Army Corps has the authority it needs to provide the increased funding without passing additional legislation. The Corps has verified to Hoeven that additional Congressional authorization is not required due to the authorization the senator originally secured in the 2014 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), but the public-private partnership (P3) will need to be renegotiated. Accordingly, Hoeven has secured agreement from the Corps to renegotiate its Project Partnership Agreement (PPA) with the local sponsor for the additional funding. Despite the funding requirements of the new route, the fact remains that the residents of the Fargo-Moorhead region need the certainty and security of comprehensive flood protection, Hoeven said. That's why we've worked hard to secure continued support from the Army Corps to provide increased funding over the coming years. The steps we've taken will help keep this project moving forward and deliver this much-needed flood protection infrastructure for the region. As a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven is working to maintain strong support for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construction account and secure project funding in the coming years. This follows the increased funding Hoeven secured in Fiscal Year 2019 for the Corps' construction efforts, which helped ensure the Corps included $35 million for construction of flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region in its Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 work plan. In addition, Hoeven secured provisions in this year's WRDA legislation and the FY2019 Energy and Water funding bill, both of which were signed into law this fall, to move forward with flood protection projects. WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT Resolves easement issue to enable Route B: Hoeven includedhis provision to resolve easements on land purchased with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding. The senator's provision grants the authority needed to implement Route B, the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton. FISCAL YEAR 2019 ENERGY AND WATER FUNDING BILL Increases the Corps' construction accountby $150 million to ensure priorities like flood protection in the Red River Valley continue to receive funding. Implements the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Programto provide states and local governments with low-cost, flexible funding sources when building water infrastructure. The legislation directs the Corps to complete a detailed plan for implementing WIFIA and provides up to $6 million tosupport WIFIA program implementation. This aligns with Hoeven's legislationto extend the WIFIA program. Ensures fair treatment of P3projectsand others that use alternative financing methods during the Corps' cost-benefit analysis, including flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region. The bill requires the Corps to develop a policy on how it will evaluate P3s and incorporate them into its budget. Hoeven also helped advance a provision in the Senate-passed Financial Services and General Government funding bill ensuring the Corps can fund P3s. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-passing-of-former-president-george-hw-bush,Hoeven Statement on Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush,2018-12-01,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.01.18 Hoeven Statement on Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the passing of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush: We are all saddened to hear of the passing of George H.W. Bush. As a veteran of World War II, Congressman, Ambassador, CIA Director, Vice President and President, President Bush was a dedicated public servant and American patriot. Mikey and I extend our deepest condolences and pray for the Bush family as they mourn and honor his remarkable life and legacy. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-holds-roundtable-with-uspto-director-local-researchers-and-business-leaders-to-discuss-securing-intellectual-property-opportunities-in-tech-development,"Hoeven Holds Roundtable with USPTO Director, Local Researchers & Business Leaders to Discuss Securing Intellectual Property, Opportunities in Tech Development",2018-11-30,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.18 Hoeven Holds Roundtable with USPTO Director, Local Researchers & Business Leaders to Discuss Securing Intellectual Property, Opportunities in Tech Development Senator Joins Director Iancu in Presenting Patent to NDSU Researcher Dr. Dean Webster FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today hosted a roundtable with Andrei Iancu, Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), and local researchers and business leaders. The senator organized the meeting to give Iancu firsthand knowledge about the needs of North Dakota's entrepreneurs and businesses in protecting their intellectual property. The group also discussed opportunities for public and private entities, such as university researchers, startups and established companies, to work together to develop and commercialize technology. In addition, Hoeven outlined bipartisan legislation that he helped pass and was signed into law last month, the Small Business Innovation Protection Act. The bill directs the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the USPTO to develop training for small businesses on the best methods for protecting intellectual property, both domestically and internationally. The training must be accessible through digital means, such as online webinars, as well as through local Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) and USPTO regional offices. North Dakota has a brilliant and growing technology sector that regularly produces new innovations to tackle a wide range of challenges, Hoeven said. Our innovators deserve credit for their hard work. Further, patents enable them to recoup the costs of their labor and help preserve the incentive for continued advancement. As we continue expanding as a hub of tech entrepreneurship, we must ensure local businesses have access to the knowledge and skills they need to secure their intellectual property and bring their products to market. This is a key part of our future economic growth, and I appreciate Director Iancu for taking the time to discuss these important issues with local industry leaders and researchers. Following the roundtable, Hoeven joined Iancu in presenting a patent to Dr. Dean Webster, a researcher from North Dakota State University (NDSU). The patent covers a bio-based polymer developed by Webster's research group to use as a cost-effective and safe resin, coating and adhesive. Hoeven also hosted Iancu at his annual State of Technology Conference earlier today. Each year, the senator holds the conference with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce to highlight breakthrough technologies and the local innovators creating them. The conference has served as a catalyst for new innovation and investment in the state and is part of the senator's work to position North Dakota as a hub of technology entrepreneurship, the third wave in the state's economic growth. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-marks-retirement-of-cass-county-sheriff-paul-d-laney,Hoeven Marks Retirement of Cass County Sheriff Paul D. Laney,2018-11-30,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.18 Hoeven Marks Retirement of Cass County Sheriff Paul D. Laney Senator Also Highlights Work to Combat Opioid Abuse & Empower Law Enforcement FARGO, N.D. At a retirement celebration today, Senator John Hoeven helped recognize the career of Cass County Sheriff Paul D. Laney and thanked him for his service to the community. The senator also highlighted his own work in the Senate to support law enforcement through comprehensive efforts to combat the opioid abuse crisis by supporting law enforcement, increasing access to treatment and preventing the sale and shipment of illicit synthetic drugs. Whether through his work in the U.S. Marine Corps, with the Fargo Police Department or as Sheriff of Cass County, Sheriff Laney's career is marked by excellence in service and a devotion to his country and community, Hoeven said. We appreciate his many years of dedicated service, especially as his department serves on the front lines of the opioid abuse epidemic. We worked hard to pass comprehensive legislation to support our law enforcement and combat opioid abuse. We thank Sheriff Laney for his many years of service and wish him the best in all his future endeavors. Last month, the president signed comprehensive legislation to combat the opioid abuse crisis including provisions Hoeven cosponsored to prevent the sale and shipment of illicit synthetic drugs like fentanyl. The legislation also helps empower law enforcement and expands access to substance abuse treatment and recovery support services. Sheriff Laney was first elected sheriff of Cass County in 2006 and has since been re-elected twice more. He has received numerous accolades for his work including being named National Sheriff of the Year by the National Sheriff Association and Government Leader of the Year by E911 Institutes. Sheriff Laney also serves on the board of directors for numerous national and state law enforcement and community organizations. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-outlines-latest-developments-towards-growing-north-dakotas-tech-sector,Hoeven Outlines Latest Developments Towards Growing North Dakotas Tech Sector,2018-11-30,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.18 Hoeven Outlines Latest Developments Towards Growing North Dakota's Tech Sector Senator Hosts 2018 State of Technology Conference, Highlights His Priorities to Empower Innovation across Industries FARGO, N.D. At his 2018 State of Technology Conference today, Senator John Hoeven outlined the latest developments related to the growth of the technology sector in North Dakota and across the nation. This annual conference, which Hoeven hosts with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce, is an important part of his efforts to establish the state as a hub of tech entrepreneurship, the third wave in North Dakota's economic growth. This year's event included keynote addresses from Linda McMahon, Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA), and Andrei Iancu, Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The focus on empowering entrepreneurship is a nationwide movement, but we do it best here in North Dakota, Hoeven said. Between private investment, the state's pro-growth business climate and our federal efforts, we are positioned to build on the strong trend of growth in our state's tech sector. We are getting there by advancing priorities like tax and regulatory relief, broadband infrastructure and STEM education. Making these investments will drive future innovation, whether it's in our primary industries of agriculture and energy or in new fields like UAS. During his remarks, the senator highlighted initiatives from both the public and private sector that will empower new innovations across industries. Hoeven's priorities include: TAX & REGULATORY RELIEF Hoeven helped pass comprehensive tax relief for businesses and hardworking families and individuals. Further, he has worked to roll back burdensome regulations. These efforts are empowering companies to invest in their operations, while also putting more money in workers' pockets, through both higher wages and lower tax rates. UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEMS In order to bolster North Dakota's UAS industry, Hoeven has recently: Secured a five-year extension of the UAS test sites in the FAA reauthorization bill. Secured the state's role in the FAA's UAS integration pilot program. Helped introduce andpassthePreventing Emerging Threats Act of 2018. Advanced the first beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) flight of a UAS without a chase plane by securing a new certificate of authorization for the state's test site as well as the DASR-11 radar system. Advocated for the administration to utilize Grand Sky and the Northern Plains UAS test site while hosting Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson and Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen in North Dakota. COMBINING TECH WITH AG & ENERGY As a member of the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven secured the following funds for Fiscal Year (FY) 2019: $30 million for a carbon capture retrofit project at an existing power plant, for which the second phase of Project Tundra is eligible. $25 million to develop supercritical CO2 technologies for coal and natural gas plants like the Allam Cycle. Hoeven has also cosponsored the Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act. This bipartisan bill will help ensure there is adequate broadband connectivity in rural areas to support the adoption of precision agriculture, which will reduce costs and improve yields. BROADBAND INFRASTRUCTURE Through his role as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven helped secure $600 million in FY2018 and $425 million in FY2019 for a new loan and grant program to spur investment in broadband for rural and hard-to-serve areas. Hoeven has also reintroduced his Move America Act, in addition to introducing a bipartisan bill to coordinate all federal efforts to improve and sustain broadband services in rural areas and maximize the impact of federal funding. STEM EDUCATION Hoeven helped secure the following in FY2019 funding legislation: $1.2 billion for Student Support and Academic Enrichment grants, which can be used by all school districts to support STEM education. Dedicated STEM funding within the Education Innovation and Research program. CERTAINTY FOR ENTREPRENEURS Hoeven is cosponsoring the Portable Benefits for Independent Workers Pilot Program Act. This bill would make portable benefits more accessible for entrepreneurs and provide greater certainty for them and their families. The senator also joined the recently-formed Entrepreneurship Caucus, which works to address the issues facing the nation's entrepreneurs and small businesses, bolster the creation of startups and increase the capital investment flowing into 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-statement-on-president-signing-usmca,Hoeven Statement on President Signing USMCA,2018-11-30,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.30.18 Hoeven Statement on President Signing USMCA WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven released the following statement today after the President signed the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Free and fair trade strongly benefits our economy, while also providing much-needed certainty for our agriculture producers and other exporters, said Hoeven. We appreciate the president's work to secure better trade deals for our producers and industries, and look forward to congressional consideration of the USMCA as soon as possible. Throughout the negotiations with Canada and Mexico, Hoeven met with the President and administration officials to press for better trade deals for the nation, particularly farmers and ranchers, as soon as possible. Specifically, Hoeven worked to ensure that the agreement: Eliminates Canada's automatic downgrade of imported U.S. wheat to feed grade and ensuring grading standards and services are non-discriminatory. Additionally, the agreement: Expands access to the Canadian market for U.S. poultry, eggs and dairy and eliminating Canada's Class 6 and 7 dairy program. Requires 75 percent of auto content to be produced in North America in order to be exempt from tariffs, up from 62.5 percent. Makes needed modernizations on intellectual property, digital trade and financial services. -###- 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-293-million-in-rural-development-loans-for-north-dakota-entities,Hoeven Announces More Than $29.3 Million in Rural Development Loans for North Dakota Entities,2018-11-29,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.29.18 Hoeven Announces More Than $29.3 Million in Rural Development Loans for North Dakota Entities WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has awarded more than $29.3 million in loans for North Dakota entities. Details of the funding are as follows: Jamestown College Foundation Inc. $18 million The funds will be used by the foundation to purchase four buildings from the University of Jamestown. City of Williston $8.5 million The funds will be used to build a fire station and facility support building for the city's new airport. Jamestown Rural Fire District (JRFD) $2.8 million The funds will be used to renovate and add to JRFD's fire hall. The ability to respond quickly and fight fires is vital for our communities, and today's Rural Development loans will help ensure crews in the Jamestown and Williston areas have the training and support services they need to help protect their communities, Hoeven said. The loans will also help the University of Jamestown continue to provide a quality education to its students. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-supports-review-of-new-start-treaty-and-sets-priorities-in-letter-to-president,Hoeven Supports Review of New START Treaty and Sets Priorities in Letter to President,2018-11-29,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.29.18 Hoeven Supports Review of New START Treaty and Sets Priorities in Letter to President WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today joined Senator Jon Kyl (R-AZ) and 23 additional senators in sending a letter to President Donald Trump outlining top priorities for the administration's review of the viability of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START). The senators wrote to the President that the Treaty's value depends upon a sustained and vigorous U.S. nuclear weapons modernization program, strict compliance by Russia with its arms control obligations and a true balance of nuclear capabilities between the parties to the Treaty. We remain committed to funding the necessary resources for the U.S. nuclear weapons modernization program and we support the rigorous review of continued viability of the New START the Administration is undertaking. We know you agree that arms control is not an end to itself; it is but a single tool that may be used to advance U.S. national security when carefully considered, the senators wrote. In addition to Senators Hoeven and Kyl, the letter is cosigned by 23 U.S. senators: Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Roy Blunt (R-MO), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Ron Johnson (R-WI), John Kennedy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Pat Roberts (R-KS), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Pat Toomey (R-PA) and Roger Wicker (R-MS). The full text of the letter is below. The Honorable Donald J. TrumpPresidentThe White House1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear President Trump: As you review the future of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START), we respectfully request that you consider the key factors that underpin its viability: The value of the Treaty depends on a sustained and vigorous U.S. nuclear weapons modernization program, strict compliance by Russia with its arms control obligations, and a true balance of nuclear capabilities between the parties to the Treaty. As to the first point, the Senate declared in the New START Resolution of Ratification, the United States is committed to proceeding with a robust stockpile stewardship program, and to maintaining and modernizing the nuclear weapons production capabilities and capacities that will ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of the United States nuclear arsenal at the New START Treaty levels. Regrettably, the infrastructure and weapons capabilities that were pledged at the time the Senate gave its consent to the Treaty have been significantly delayed or reduced in scope. This risks further worsening of asymmetry between the Russian and U.S. nuclear weapon infrastructure capabilities. We believe that continued funding of the U.S. strategic modernization program, including for low-yield warhead options, as proposed in your Nuclear Posture Review (NPR), is critical in the face of dangerous international security developments since the New START was ratified. As to the second point, the Russian Federation is in material breach of its arms control commitments, including the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty by developing, producing, and deploying a ground-launched cruise missile and launcher. As your NPR highlights, Russia has been adopting military strategies and capabilities that rely on nuclear escalation for their success. Third, in the New START Resolution of Ratification, the Senate called upon the President to pursue an agreement with the Russian Federation that would address the disparity between the tactical nuclear weapons stockpiles of the Russian Federation and of the United Statesin a verifiable manner. We note with regret that despite the best efforts of successive presidential administrations, the Russian Federation has not been amenable to such an agreement. In fact, Russia has increased the role of nuclear forces and their types and variety since 2010. Russia has even adopted an escalate to deescalate or escalate to win strategy for nuclear employment. The Russian Federation has unveiled new nuclear weapons that are not subject to limitations set forth by the New START, including a new nuclear-armed, nuclear-powered undersea autonomous torpedo. In addition to an extensive nuclear weapons modernization program including all legs of its nuclear triad, the Russian Federation possesses significant advantages in its nuclear weapons production capacity, as your NPR points out. The New START does not expire until 2021. We urge you to consider the following as a part of the review of the national security interest of the United States and its allies to extend or replace the Treaty: The status of the modernization of U.S. nuclear weapons and associated infrastructure and the risk of instability created by Russia's modernization programs; The imbalance posed by Russia's nuclear weapons capabilities that are limited by arms control with Russia and those that are not, including so-called non-strategic nuclear weapons (where Russia holds at least a ten-to-one advantage over the United States) and the systems Russian President Vladimir Putin unveiled in March of this year; Russia's systemic abuse of arms control and international norms; and The possibility of having to deal with more than one peer competitor at a time, which calls into question the limits on U.S. warheads. We remain committed to funding the necessary resources for the U.S. nuclear weapons modernization program and we support the rigorous review of continued viability of the New START the Administration is undertaking. We know you agree that arms control is not an end to itself; it is but a single tool that may be used to advance U.S. national security when carefully considered. We look forward to continuing to work with you throughout the review process. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-legislation-enabling-homeowners-around-patterson-lake-and-jamestown-reservoir-to-purchase-lots-headed-to-the-president-to-be-signed-into-law,Hoeven Legislation Enabling Homeowners Around Patterson Lake & Jamestown Reservoir to Purchase Lots Headed to the President to be Signed Into Law,2018-11-28,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.28.18 Hoeven Legislation Enabling Homeowners Around Patterson Lake & Jamestown Reservoir to Purchase Lots Headed to the President to be Signed Into Law WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that his legislation enabling homeowners around Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir to purchase their lots has been approved by Congress and will now go to the President to be signed into law. The Senate today approved both S.440 and S. 2074 as amended, legislation to transfer lots at Patterson Lake to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department and land around the Jamestown Reservoir to the Stutsman County Park Board. Homeowners will then have the opportunity to purchase their land from these local entities. Homeowners at Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir have made investments in their homes and lots, and they deserve the security of owning the land they live on, said Hoeven. This legislation is the result of a collaborative effort by the homeowner associations as well as local, state and federal officials in Dickinson and Jamestown. We look forward to the President signing these bills into law. The Senate originally passed the legislation in October, however the House of Representatives amended the bills before passing them earlier this month, sending them back to the Senate for final approval. The Senate approved the legislation today, sending it to the President to be signed into law. Patterson Lake Legislation Hoeven introduced S.440, legislation to transfer lots at Patterson Lake in February 2017. Specifically, the legislation: Transfers 41 cabin lots, and additional recreation and wildlife management lands, to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department. It also transfers a parcel of land, currently being leased, to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. Jamestown Reservoir Legislation After working with homeowners and local officials in Jamestown, Hoeven introduced S. 2074 in the Senate in November 2017. The Jamestown Reservoir legislation: Permanently transfers federal lands around Jamestown Reservoir including 71 permitted exclusive use cabin lots, two campgrounds, a park and unpurchased lots to the Stutsman County Park Board and the North Dakota Game and Fish at no cost. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The BOR would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. The bills are cosponsored by Senator Heidi Heitkamp and Congressman Kevin Cramer introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-and-udall-laud-senate-passage-of-native-american-heritage-month-resolution,Hoeven and Udall Laud Senate Passage of Native American Heritage Month Resolution,2018-11-27,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.27.18 Hoeven and Udall Laud Senate Passage of Native American Heritage Month Resolution WASHINGTON Senators John Hoeven (R-ND), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and Tom Udall (D-NM), Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, welcomed Senate passage of S. Res 702, a resolution marking November as Native American Heritage Month. S. Res 702 recognizes November as National Native American Heritage Month and celebrates the heritages and cultures of Native Americans and the contributions of Native Americans to the United States. Today the Senate took action to recognize the remarkable legacies and accomplishments of Native Americans, Hoeven said. This resolution designates November as Native American Heritage Month, however it is important that we honor and respect the contributions of Tribes throughout the year. I am glad to see the Senate pass our resolution to commemorate Native American Heritage Month to recognize and celebrate the indelible mark that Native American arts, languages, cultures, and peoples have left on New Mexico and the United States, Udall said. Native communities have shaped the American experience for hundreds of years, helping to write every chapter of our nation's history. And, in New Mexico, which is home to 23 Tribes and Pueblos, the bedrock of who we are as a state and a people is rooted in the contributions of Native leaders, languages, and traditions. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-agenda-for-2018-state-of-technology-conference,Hoeven Announces Agenda for 2018 State of Technology Conference,2018-11-27,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.27.18 Hoeven Announces Agenda for 2018 State of Technology Conference Senator Hosting SBA Administrator Linda McMahon, U.S. Patent & Trade Office Director Andrei Iancu FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today announced the agenda for his 2018 State of Technology Conference, which will be held at the Delta Hotel in Fargo on Friday, November 30. The senator holds his annual conference with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce to highlight breakthrough technologies and the local innovators creating them. The conference has served as a catalyst for new innovation and investment in the state and is part of the senator's work to position North Dakota as a hub of technology entrepreneurship, the third wave in the state's economic growth. We've got a great lineup of speakers for this year's State of Technology Conference, including keynotes from SBA Administrator Linda McMahon and USPTO Director Andrei Iancu, Hoeven said. These two federal agencies provide vital services and support for small businesses across our state, which is especially important as we continue to see growth in our tech sector. We look forward to their insights and to hearing the latest from local startups and established companies on exciting developments in their industries. This year's conference will feature a keynote address from Linda McMahon, head of the Small Business Administration (SBA). McMahon is joining Hoeven in North Dakota so she can learn firsthand about the broad range of innovative technology developments occurring in the state, which have impacts across industry sectors and around the globe. Further, McMahon's visit will serve as an opportunity for local businesses to benefit from learning directly about the work SBA is undertaking to assist and promote small business growth across the country. Hoeven is also hosting Andrei Iancu, Director of the U.S. Patent and Trade Office (USPTO), at the conference to highlight the importance of securing intellectual property and outline opportunities to bring new technologies to market through partnerships between universities and the private sector. The event will be emceed by Eric Piela, the Brand and Buzz Manager at CoSchedule, and will spotlight innovations in medicine, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and energy. A media availability will be held with Hoeven, McMahon, Iancu and the conference speakers at the conclusion of the event. For more information on the 2018 State of Technology Conference, please visit the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber website or call (218) 233-1100. The full schedule is as follows: 7:30 a.m. Registration 8:00 a.m. Welcome Craig Whitney, CEO, The Chamber Eric Piela, Brand & Buzz Manager, CoSchedule Event Emcee Seth Arndorfer, CEO, Dakota Carrier Network Presenting Sponsor 8:15 a.m. Yossi Saadon, Project and Implementation Lead, Tytocare Dr. Jennifer Raum, Medical Director for Clinic Services & Service Chair for Internal Medicine, Sanford Health Core Faculty, UND Internal Medicine Residency Program 8:40 a.m. Andrei Iancu Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property Director, USPTO 9:30 a.m.Anthony Molzahn CEO & Co-Founder, Project Phoenix 9:40 a.m. Zoe Bundy Young Entrepreneurs Academy Winner Founder, Brainy Ladies 9:50 a.m. Chris Clark President, Xcel Energy MN, SD, ND 10:00 a.m. Governor Doug Burgum 10:45 a.m. TECHND Award Presentation 11:00 a.m. U.S. Senator John Hoeven 11:20 a.m. SBA Administrator Linda McMahon 11: 40 a.m. Media Availability -###- Print Email Tweet 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-6-million-in-health-and-education-funding-for-north-dakota,Hoeven Announces More Than $6 Million in Health and Education Funding for North Dakota,2018-11-27,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.27.18 Hoeven Announces More Than $6 Million in Health and Education Funding for North Dakota WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that more than $6 million in funding for health care and education programs and initiatives has been awarded to entities in North Dakota. Details of the funding are as follows: Head Start Grants The funds are awarded by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF). Head Start helps children prepare for learning by providing access to education, health and wellness services for low-income children and families. Southeastern North Dakota Community Action Agency $3,222,821 The funds will be used to support Head Start programs in Cass, Ransom, Richland, Sargent, Steele and Traill counties. TGU School District $2,267,436 The funds will be used to support Head Start programs in the TGU School District which serves Towner and Granville. Maternal and Child Health Services The funds are awarded by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). North Dakota Department of Health $434,936 Medical Research The funds are awarded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). University of North Dakota (UND) $107,960 The funds will be used to support clinical research at UND to treat neurological disorders. Today's funding will help families and children better access quality health care and support important medical research at UND, Hoeven said. The funds will also help communities in northern and southeastern North Dakota continue to offer Head Start programs to help children and families live healthier lives. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senator-hoeven-thanksgiving-day-statement-2019,Senator Hoeven Thanksgiving Day Statement 2019,2018-11-22,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.22.18 Senator Hoeven Thanksgiving Day Statement 2019 BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement to wish North Dakotans a happy Thanksgiving: America is a truly blessed nation, and as we remember the pursuit of our ancestors to make a more perfect nation, we look on today with thanks and to the future with optimism. North Dakotans work hard and sacrifice throughout the year to provide for themselves, their families and for future generations. Thanksgiving Day allows us the opportunity to gather with loved ones to enjoy our many blessings. From Mikey, me and our entire family, we wish all North Dakotans a happy Thanksgiving. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-army-corps-fy2019-work-plan-provides-35-million-in-construction-funding-for-permanent-flood-protection-in-fargo-moorhead-region,Hoeven: Army Corps FY2019 Work Plan Provides $35 Million in Construction Funding for Permanent Flood Protection In Fargo-Moorhead Region,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.21.18 Hoeven: Army Corps FY2019 Work Plan Provides $35 Million in Construction Funding for Permanent Flood Protection In Fargo-Moorhead Region WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 work plan includes $35 million for construction of flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Energy and Water Development, Hoeven provided increased funding for the Corps' construction account enabling the project to be funded in the Corps' work plan. Additionally, the Corps' work plan includes $4.2 million for small water projects in Kindred and Center, North Dakota. This funding comes at a critical time and will help ensure the project's procurement process and construction can move forward, Hoeven said. We worked hard to support the Corps' construction account to ensure the flood protection project in the Red River Valley would receive funding. This funding, along with previous federal appropriations and local contributions will allow the Corp to complete work scheduled for this fiscal year. This includes the inlet structure south of Horace, the control structure on the Wild Rice River as well as additional design work. We'll continue working to move the project forward to provide comprehensive protection for the region. Additionally, Hoeven secured provisions in the Water Resources Development Act and the Fiscal Year 2019 Energy and Water funding bill, both of which were signed into law this fall, to move forward with flood protection projects. WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT Resolves easement issue to enable Route B: Hoeven includedhis provision to resolve easements on land purchased with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding. The senator's provision grants the authority needed to implement Route B, the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton. FISCAL YEAR 2019 ENERGY AND WATER FUNDING BILL As a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven secured the following priorities in the bill: Increases the Corps' construction accountby $150 million to ensure priorities like flood protection in the Red River Valley continue to receive funding. Implements the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Programto provide states and local governments with low-cost, flexible funding sources when building water infrastructure. The legislation directs the Corps to complete a detailed plan for implementing WIFIA and provides up to $6 million tosupport WIFIA program implementation. This aligns with Hoeven's legislationto extend the WIFIA program. Ensures fair treatment of public-private partnership (P3)projectsand others that use alternative financing methods during the Corps' cost-benefit analysis, including flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region. The bill requires the Corps to develop a policy on how it will evaluate P3s and incorporate them into its budget. Hoeven also helped advance a provision in the Senate-passed Financial Services and General Government funding bill ensuring the Corps can fund P3s. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-celebrates-designation-of-central-valley-school-in-buxton-as-a-national-blue-ribbon-school,Hoeven Celebrates Designation of Central Valley School in Buxton as a National Blue Ribbon School,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.21.18 Hoeven Celebrates Designation of Central Valley School in Buxton as a National Blue Ribbon School Three North Dakota Schools Honored This Year for Excellence in Academic Achievement BUXTON, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today joined state and local officials in congratulating the administrators, teachers and students of Central Valley School on being designated as a 2018 National Blue Ribbon School. The designation was received in recognition of the school's exemplary high performance. This award is a testament to the dedication of the school staff, the hard work of the students and the support of the parents and surrounding community, said Hoeven. Our educators are an essential part of shaping our state and nation's future by empowering youth to pursue their passions and lead fulfilling and productive lives. We thank them for all that they do, and we give our best wishes to the students as they continue in their education. Freedom Elementary in West Fargo and Richland Elementary in Abercrombie were also honored as National Blue Ribbon Schools this year. This is the second year in a row that three North Dakota schools have won the award. The National Blue Ribbon Program was established in 1982 to recognize the work of the nation's top schools.Since the program's founding, 40 North Dakota schools have been designated as blue ribbon schools, with some being designated more than once. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-nominates-four-students-to-military-academies,Hoeven Nominates Four Students to Military Academies,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.21.18 Hoeven Nominates Four Students to Military Academies WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that he has nominated four North Dakota students for appointments to the nation's military academies. Hoeven nominated Seth Benson of Sheyenne High School in West Fargo to West Point (USMA); Logan Brown of Century High School in Bismarck to the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA); Jeffrey Corcoran of Red River High School in Grand Forks to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA); and Luke Noah of Shanley High School in Fargo to the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA). Seth, Logan, Jeffrey and Luke have distinguished themselves in their studies, extracurricular activities and community service and involvement, said Hoeven. We are impressed that they have chosen to pursue a place at our nation's service academies to cultivate excellence in academics and leadership. It is a privilege to nominate them, and we are confident that they will do an excellent job representing North Dakota during their time at the Air Force, Merchant Marine, Naval and Military academies and in serving our country during their appointments. Service academies, as part of the application process, 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 2019-2020 should submit an application by October 2019. Additional information on service academy nominations is available on Senator Hoeven's website. Information on the students Hoeven nominated for academy appointments follows: Seth Benson, Fargo U.S. Military Academy (West Point) Seth is a senior at Sheyenne High School in West Fargo where he holds a 4.22 GPA and was a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist. He is a decorated saxophone band player and is active in sports including cross country, swimming and track. He is an Eagle Scout and is active in his church's youth group. His father is a Lt. Col. in the Minnesota National Guard. Click here for a photo. Logan Brown, Bismarck U.S. Air Force Academy Logan is a senior at Century High School in Bismarck where he holds a 4.16 GPA and is a member of National Honor Society. He participates in band, Science Olympiad and is an all-state soccer player and captain. He volunteers with the Wounded Warrior Project, Special Olympics and United Way. Click here for a photo. Jeffrey Corcoran, Grand Forks U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Jeffrey is a senior at Grand Forks' Red River High School where he is active on the cross country and track teams. He is a Boy Scout and active in his church. His father is a Lt. Col. in the Army Reserves and his mother is a graduate of West Point. Click here for a photo. Luke Noah, Fargo U.S. Naval Academy Luke is a senior at Shanley High School where he has a 4.03 GPA and is a member of the North Dakota chapter of the National Honor Society. He is an all-state soccer player and is also a member of the swim team. Click here for a photo. -###- 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-tax-and-regulatory-relief-are-helping-spur-economic-development-,Hoeven: Tax & Regulatory Relief Are Helping Spur Economic Development,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.21.18 Hoeven: Tax & Regulatory Relief Are Helping Spur Economic Development Senator Also Highlights How Tech Entrepreneurship is the Third Wave of Growth in North Dakota's Economy FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today joined Fargo area business and community leaders at the fourth annual 1 Million Cups (1MC) Reunion Fargo to outline how tax and regulatory relief are helping to create a pro-growth business environment to bolster North Dakota's economic growth. Hoeven stressed that these benefits reach across industries, including North Dakota's technology sector, and further drives tech entrepreneurship as the third wave of growth for the state's economy. We've been working hard to roll back burdensome and growth-hampering regulations and to provide tax relief to help spur our economy and empower entrepreneurs and businesses to grow and create jobs, said Hoeven. We are already seeing the results of our efforts as our economy has posted strong growth, wages have risen and unemployment levels are at record lows. This economic growth is especially reflected in North Dakota's tech economy as our tech entrepreneurs continue to drive this third wave of growth for our state's economy. As part of his continued efforts to establish the state as a hub of tech entrepreneurship, Hoeven will host Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Linda McMahon at his State of Technology Conference later this month. The annual event, which the senator hosts with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce, highlights breakthrough technologies and the local innovators creating them. This year's conference will be held on Friday, November 30 at the Delta Hotel in Fargo. In addition, to further establish a business climate to help entrepreneurs and businesses succeed, Hoeven is cosponsoring the bipartisan Portable Benefits for Independent Workers Pilot Program Act. The legislation would direct the Secretary of Labor to fund and evaluate innovative models for providing benefits to independent workers, including self-employed entrepreneurs, which can move with a worker from job to job. Hoeven has worked since his time as governor to position North Dakota's technology sector for growth, naming it as one of the state's five targeted industries. Hoeven continues working through his role on the Senate Appropriations Committee to build a pro-growth business climate for the state's industries, as well as to work and advocate for the support of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. 1MC Fargo is a local chapter of a national series of events to promote small business and entrepreneurship. Approximately 150 individuals and entrepreneurs from the Fargo community participate in 1MC Fargo each week. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-working-to-secure-north-dakotas-role-in-developing-key-uas-technologies-and-applications,Hoeven Working to Secure North Dakota's Role in Developing Key UAS Technologies and Applications,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.21.18 Hoeven Working to Secure North Dakota's Role in Developing Key UAS Technologies and Applications Senator Outlines Recent Efforts & Legislative Accomplishments in Advancing UAS Industry at Monthly Drone Focus Meetup FARGO, N.D. At the monthly Drone Focus meetup today, Senator John Hoeven outlined his recent efforts to help advance North Dakota's role as a leader of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) research, development, training and operations. This includes: Advocating for the administration to utilize the state's UAS expertise. Safely integrating unmanned aircraft into the national airspace (NAS). Advancing the development of counter-UAS technology. Supporting North Dakota's UAS missions. We are putting together all of the pieces to advance North Dakota's UAS industry, Hoeven said. We continue to push the cutting-edge, which we demonstrated with General Atomics' beyond visual line of sight flight earlier this year. We're building on that success by extending the authorization for our test site and securing the state's role in the FAA's integration pilot program. We are also well-positioned to advance the development of counter-UAS technology. We've passed legislation and funding to support these efforts at the DHS, and we continue to urge the department's leadership to make use of Grand Sky and North Dakota's UAS industry in developing this technology. Combining all of these factors with our state's ever-growing UAS missions, we remain a true leader in this dynamic industry. ADVOCATING FOR NORTH DAKOTA Earlier this year, Hoeven hostedU.S. Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson in the state for the first flight of an unmanned aircraft to go both beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) of the operator and without a chase plane. Hoeven brought Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen to Grand Sky to see the state's UAS industry firsthand. The senator continues working through his role on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC) to ensure the DHS relies on Grand Sky when expanding its UAS border security operations. UAS INTEGRATION Hoeven secured an extension through 2023 of the UAS test sites, including the Northern Plains test site in North Dakota, in the recently-passed Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill. The senator also joined Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao to announce that North Dakota wasselectedas one of ten sites to participate in the FAA's UAS integration pilot program. General Atomics first BVLOS flight was possible due to two key items Hoeven secured in recent years, including an updated certificate of authorization for the test site from the FAA and upgrades to the DASR-11 radar system at the Grand Forks Air Force Base and a similar system in Fargo. Through his role on the Defense Appropriations Committee, Hoeven provided $4 million for the Department of Defense in Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 to support the development of unmanned traffic management (UTM), in cooperation with NASA. NASA previously relied on North Dakota to test and evaluate UTM technology. COUNTER-UAS DEVELOPMENT Hoeven helped introduce and pass the Preventing Emerging Threats Act of 2018, bipartisan legislation that protects important facilities from security risks posed by unmanned aircraft. Further, it directs the DHS to conduct research and test technology to address emerging threats stemming from the potential misuse of UAS. The senator secured $13 million for counter-UAS in FY2019 funding legislation, while also directing the DHS to report on its funding needs in this area for the next five years. NORTH DAKOTA'S MISSIONS Hoeven is advancing measures allowing both the National Guard and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) touse private contractors, like those at Grand Sky, to train their UAS pilots. Hoeven's National Guard measure wassigned into lawlast year, and his CBP provision is included in the Senate's FY2019 funding legislation. The senator secured $100 million in the FY2019 funding legislation to provide for the purchase of an additional Global Hawk aircraft to carry the Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) payload in Grand Forks. -###- 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-continuing-efforts-to-expand-rural-broadband-support-growth-of-north-dakotas-tech-sector,"Hoeven Continuing Efforts to Expand Rural Broadband, Support Growth of North Dakotas Tech Sector",2018-11-20,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.20.18 Hoeven Continuing Efforts to Expand Rural Broadband, Support Growth of North Dakota's Tech Sector Senator Marks Grand Opening of Midco Data Center in Fargo FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today helped celebrate the grand opening of Midco's Tier III data center. The $12 million facility will provide secure data storage for a wide variety of businesses, including the growing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) industry in the Red River Valley. Further, the center will serve as an important piece of infrastructure to help attract companies to North Dakota from around the country. North Dakota has seen tremendous growth in its tech sector, and supporting technology entrepreneurship remains a top priority, said Hoeven. We need IT infrastructure, like this data center, in order to meet the demands of modern industry. For instance, conducting inspections with UAS, whether it's for crops, electrical lines or wind towers, produces a large amount of data. We need to have the capacity to move that data through local networks, regardless of where the operations are taking place. That's why we've worked hard to expand our investments in rural broadband. These efforts will help ensure our state can continue compete with anyone, anywhere in the world. The new data center dovetails with Hoeven's efforts to promote robust investment in information technology infrastructure in North Dakota. To this end, the senator has worked to advance the following priorities: Expanding USDA Rural Broadband Programs Through his role as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven helped secure $600 million in Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 for a new loan and grant program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to spur investment in broadband for rural and hard-to-serve areas. Further, he worked to ensure the Senate's FY2019 Agriculture-FDA funding legislation, which the chamber recently passed, continues strong support for this and other rural broadband programs. Providing Flexible Funding Sources for Infrastructure Hoeven has also reintroduced his Move America Act, bipartisan legislation that would provide tax credits and tax-exempt bonds to help grow and repair the country's infrastructure. Qualified projects include roads, bridges, transit, ports, rail, airports, water and sewer facilities and rural broadband. Coordinating Federal Rural Broadband Efforts In addition, Hoeven has introduced a bipartisan bill to create an Office of Rural Broadband at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ensure that all federal agencies with jurisdiction over rural broadband work together. This will help coordinate efforts to improve and sustain broadband services in rural areas and maximize the impact of federal funding. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-outlines-efforts-to-make-farm-bill-conservation-title-more-farmer-friendly-support-voluntary-conservation-programs,"Hoeven Outlines Efforts to Make Farm Bill Conservation Title More Farmer-Friendly, Support Voluntary Conservation Programs",2018-11-20,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.20.18 Hoeven Outlines Efforts to Make Farm Bill Conservation Title More Farmer-Friendly, Support Voluntary Conservation Programs BISMARCK, N.D. At the North Dakota Association of Soil Conservation Districts annual meeting today, Senator John Hoeven outlined his efforts to make the farm bill conservation programs more farmer-friendly. This includes improving programs at the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Farm Service Agency (FSA). Hoeven is advancing this goal both as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and as a member of the Senate-House farm bill conference committee, where he is working to pass a strong farm bill into law as soon as possible. Our farmers and ranchers have the greatest interest in maintaining their land, which they continue to demonstrate through their good stewardship, said Hoeven. The conservation programs under the farm bill should give our agriculture producers the tools they need to succeed, rather than impose unworkable mandates. That's why we're working to enhance voluntary programs like CRP, EQIP and CSP and, at the same time, provide relief from NRCS's wetlands regulations. These efforts will help ensure soil and water quality for generations to come, while also helping farmers to maintain and grow their operations. Among other things, Hoeven is working to ensure the final version the farm bill: Provides Relief from NRCS Wetlands Regulations Both the Senate and House farm bills contain language related to defining minimal effects exemptions and mitigation banking. Hoeven hosted the NRCS Acting Chief and Under Secretary Bill Northey, who oversees NRCS, in North Dakota to help advance these priorities. Maintains the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) EQIP and CSP are voluntary programs under NRCS that provide financial and technical assistance to help farmers and ranchers implement conservation practices on their land. Expands Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Acreage CRP, which is administered by the FSA, allows farmers to set aside environmentally sensitive land and encourage plant species that improve soil health in exchange for yearly rental payments. Supports Agriculture Research Both the Senate and House farm bills maintain strong land-grant formula research funding. This supports the work of institutions like North Dakota State University and the North Dakota Extension Service, which conduct research on innovative conservation practices for preserving and reclaiming land and water. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senator-hoeven-statement-on-air-ambulance-crash,Senator Hoeven Statement on Air Ambulance Crash,2018-11-19,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.19.18 Senator Hoeven Statement on Air Ambulance Crash BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after a plane operated by Metro Area Ambulance crashed northwest of Mandan on Sunday evening, killing the three individuals on board: Mikey and I are deeply saddened to hear of the air ambulance crash last night near Mandan. Those on board were committed to serving others and providing life-saving medical care. We extend our condolences to their families and loved ones. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-nps-director-nominee-commits-to-help-advance-theodore-roosevelt-presidential-library,Hoeven: NPS Director Nominee Commits to Help Advance Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library,2018-11-16,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.16.18 Hoeven: NPS Director Nominee Commits to Help Advance Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Senator Also Outlined the Restore Our Parks Act, Urged Nominee to Address Park Maintenance Backlog WASHINGTON At a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee this week, Senator John Hoeven secured a commitment from Grand Teton National Park Superintendent David Vela, the nominee to serve as Director of the National Park Service (NPS), to help advance the development of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation is currently planning the construction of the library and museum, to be located in the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The facility will include more than 50,000 digitized documents and other archives from the Theodore Roosevelt Center at Dickinson State University (DSU). This week's hearing follows a commitment Hoeven secured from National Park Foundation President Will Shafroth to work on moving the effort forward. Further, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke expressed support for the project during his visit to the state earlier this year. The Theodore Roosevelt Center has done a tremendous job in preserving President Roosevelt's documents and making them available online, said Hoeven. By establishing a presidential library and museum, we can further capture the legacy of this president as well as the impact western North Dakota had on his life. Doing so would benefit residents and visitors, and I appreciate Mr. Vela's commitment to support the project. I look forward to continuing to work with all of our local stakeholders and federal partners in moving forward on building this facility. In addition, Hoeven urged Vela to resolve the NPS's maintenance backlog. The senator outlined legislation he cosponsored, the Restore Our Parks Act, to help address this priority, which includes an estimated $52 million for deferred maintenance in North Dakota. This bipartisan legislation would use 50 percent of the excess revenues from energy development on federal lands to establish a NPS Legacy Restoration Fund. These revenues are already owed to the federal government, would require no new taxes and would not impact revenues that go to the states for mineral and energy development on federal lands. Further, the bill would authorize the NPS Director and Interior Secretary to accept cash or in-kind donations to the restoration fund to encourage relevant public-private partnerships. An expected $6.5 billion would accrue to the fund over a five-year period. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-presses-air-guard-to-provide-tuition-assistance-benefits,Hoeven Presses Air Guard to Provide Tuition Assistance Benefits,2018-11-16,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.16.18 Hoeven Presses Air Guard to Provide Tuition Assistance Benefits WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today pressed the Air National Guard to provide federal tuition assistance similar to benefits provided by the Army Guard. This is part of the senator's efforts to ensure that Guard members have access to educational benefits to meet their needs after cost increases forced the North Dakota National Guard to modify its tuition assistance program. Currently, National Guard forces that deploy become eligible for Post-9/11 GI Bill educational benefits. While the Army National Guard provides a tuition assistance benefit separate from the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Air National Guard does not provide comparable tuition assistance. Guard members often use post-9/11 GI bill benefits to pay for their education, and members of the Army National Guard also have access to Federal Tuition Assistance to pay for school. Unfortunately, to date, the Air National Guard does not provide a similar tuition benefit for its airmen. North Dakota seeks to cover costs not covered by federal benefits, but the disparity between the Army and Air Guard education benefits creates a strain on the state's tuition assistance program, Hoeven wrote in a letter to Lieutenant General L. Scott Rice, Director of the Air National Guard. The full text of the letter is below: Dear Lieutenant General Rice: The North Dakota Air National Guard performs critical national missions and also plays an important role in communities around the state. We want the best individuals to serve in the National Guard and, as you know, educational benefits are one of the best ways to attract and develop an outstanding Air Guard team. The state of North Dakota is discussing how it can best support the educational needs of our Guard members, and I want to make sure federal programs are aligned to match this effort. Guard members often use post-9/11 GI bill benefits to pay for their education, and members of the Army National Guard also have access to Federal Tuition Assistance to pay for school. Unfortunately, to date, the Air National Guard does not provide a similar tuition benefit for its airmen. North Dakota seeks to cover costs not covered by federal benefits, but the disparity between the Army and Air Guard education benefits creates a strain on the state's tuition assistance program. I understand that the Air National Guard is currently reviewing its policies on federal tuition assistance. I want to encourage completion of that review as soon as possible. I also request that you provide a briefing to my staff when the review is complete so that I can understand the costs involved in matching the Army National Guard's federal tuition assistance program as well as any statutory impediments to providing this educational benefit. I hope that we can combine efforts at the state level with updated policies at the federal level to provide robust educational benefits to members of the Air National Guard. I stand ready to assist you in this effort. As always, thank you for your service to the nation and your commitment to our airmen and their families. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-convenes-legislative-hearing-to-receive-testimony-on-three-bills,Hoeven Convenes Legislative Hearing to Receive Testimony on Three Bills,2018-11-14,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.14.18 Hoeven Convenes Legislative Hearing to Receive Testimony on Three Bills WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven (R-ND), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, today convened a legislative hearing to receive testimony on the following three pieces of legislation: S. 2788, A bill to repeal the Act entitled An Act to confer jurisdiction on the State of North Dakota over offenses committed by or against Indians on the Devils Lake Indian Reservation, H.R. 2606, the Stigler Act Amendments of 2018, and H.R. 4032, the Gila River Indian Community Federal Rights-of-Way, Easements and Boundary Clarification Act. Today the committee received testimony from Administration and Tribal officials on three Tribal jurisdiction and lands bills, said Hoeven. The testimony provided today indicated how each of these bills will assist the individual Tribes affected. S. 2788 repeals an outdated federal statute that authorizes the State of North Dakota to prosecute certain crimes committed on the Spirit Lake Reservation. H.R. 2606 repeals certain provisions in Federal law regarding the restricted lands of members of the Five Civilized Tribes of Oklahoma. H.R. 4032 confirms undocumented Federal rights-of-way or easements on the Gila River Indian Reservation, clarifies the northern boundary of the Gila River Indian Community's Reservation, and takes certain land located in Maricopa County and Pinal County, Arizona, into trust for the benefit of the Gila River Indian Community. The committee received testimony from: MR. DARRYL LACOUNTE, Acting Director, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, DC THE HONORABLE JAMES FLOYD, Principal Chief, Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma, Okmulgee, OK THE HONORABLE DOUGLAS YANKTON, SR., Vice Chairman, Spirit Lake Tribe, Fort Totten, ND THE HONORABLE BARNEY ENOS, JR., Councilman, Gila River Indian Community, Sacaton, AZ For witness testimony and video of the hearing click here. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-cramer-house-passes-legislation-to-enable-homeowners-around-patterson-lake-and-jamestown-reservoir-to-purchase-lots,"Hoeven, Cramer: House Passes Legislation to Enable Homeowners Around Patterson Lake & Jamestown Reservoir to Purchase Lots",2018-11-14,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.14.18 Hoeven, Cramer: House Passes Legislation to Enable Homeowners Around Patterson Lake & Jamestown Reservoir to Purchase Lots WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer today announced that the U.S. House of Representatives has approved S.440 and S. 2074, legislation Senator Hoeven introduced to enable homeowners around Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir to purchase their lots. The Senate passed the legislation in October, however the House of Representatives amended the legislation so it will now go back to the Senate for additional consideration. Congressman Cramer introduced companion bills in the House of Representatives. Specifically, the bills transfer lots at Patterson Lake to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department and land around the Jamestown Reservoir to the Stutsman County Park Board. Homeowners will then have the opportunity to purchase their land from these local entities. We've worked with the homeowner associations as well as local, state and federal officials in Dickinson and Jamestown to advance legislation that provides homeowners at Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir with the ability to purchase the land that they have developed and made their homes, said Hoeven. The House has now passed the bills for both Jamestown and Dickinson, but because they amended the bills, the legislation will need to come back to the Senate for further consideration and we'll need to pass them again. This is another step in the process, but there's more work to do. I am pleased to work with Senator Hoeven, the Patterson Lake Homeowners Association, and the Jamestown Reservoir Cabin Owners Association to put this land into the hands of local owners where it belongs, said Cramer. I appreciate the House Natural Resources Committee favorably reporting my companion bills early this year and I look forward to these bills reaching the President this Congress to be enacted into law. Patterson Lake Legislation Hoeven introduced S.440, legislation to transfer lots at Patterson Lake in February 2017. Specifically, the legislation: Transfers 41 cabin lots, and additional recreation and wildlife management lands, to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department. It also transfers a parcel of land, currently being leased, to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. Jamestown Reservoir Legislation After working with homeowners and local officials in Jamestown, Hoeven introduced S. 2074 in the Senate in November 2017. The Jamestown Reservoir legislation: Permanently transfers federal lands around Jamestown Reservoir including 71 permitted exclusive use cabin lots, two campgrounds, a park and unpurchased lots to the Stutsman County Park Board and the North Dakota Game and Fish at no cost. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The BOR would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-hoeven-house-passes-legislation-to-enable-homeowners-around,"CRAMER, HOEVEN: HOUSE PASSES LEGISLATION TO ENABLE HOMEOWNERS AROUND PATTERSON LAKE & JAMESTOWN RESERVOIR TO PURCHASE LOTS",2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Contacts: Kami Capener (Hoeven) (202) 224-2551 Dana Stancavage (Cramer) (202) 225-2611 ***Click here for Hoeven video. Click here for Hoeven audio.*** *** Click here for Cramer audio.*** CRAMER, HOEVEN: HOUSE PASSES LEGISLATION TO ENABLE HOMEOWNERS AROUND PATTERSON LAKE & JAMESTOWN RESERVOIR TO PURCHASE LOTS WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer today announced that the U.S. House of Representatives has approved S.440 and S. 2074, legislation Senator Hoeven introduced to enable homeowners around Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir to purchase their lots. The Senate passed the legislation in October, however the House of Representatives amended the legislation so it will now go back to the Senate for additional consideration. Congressman Cramer introduced companion bills in the House of Representatives. Specifically, the bills transfer lots at Patterson Lake to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department and land around the Jamestown Reservoir to the Stutsman County Park Board. Homeowners will then have the opportunity to purchase their land from these local entities. We've worked with the homeowner associations as well as local, state and federal officials in Dickinson and Jamestown to advance legislation that provides homeowners at Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir with the ability to purchase the land that they have developed and made their homes, said Hoeven. The House has now passed the bills for both Jamestown and Dickinson, but because they amended the bills, the legislation will need to come back to the Senate for further consideration and we'll need to pass them again. This is another step in the process, but there's more work to do. I am pleased to work with Senator Hoeven, the Patterson Lake Homeowners Association, and the Jamestown Reservoir Cabin Owners Association to put this land into the hands of local owners where it belongs, said Cramer. I appreciate the House Natural Resources Committee favorably reporting my companion bills early this year and I look forward to these bills reaching the President this Congress to be enacted into law. Patterson Lake Legislation Hoeven introduced S.440, legislation to transfer lots at Patterson Lake in February 2017. Specifically, the legislation: Transfers 41 cabin lots, and additional recreation and wildlife management lands, to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department. It also transfers a parcel of land, currently being leased, to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. Jamestown Reservoir Legislation After working with homeowners and local officials in Jamestown, Hoeven introduced S. 2074 in the Senate in November 2017. The Jamestown Reservoir legislation: Permanently transfers federal lands around Jamestown Reservoir including 71 permitted exclusive use cabin lots, two campgrounds, a park and unpurchased lots to the Stutsman County Park Board and the North Dakota Game and Fish at no cost. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The BOR would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-more-than-28-million-usda-grant-for-fiber-optic-infrastructure-in-morton-county,Hoeven Announces More Than $2.8 Million USDA Grant for Fiber Optic Infrastructure in Morton County,2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.13.18 Hoeven Announces More Than $2.8 Million USDA Grant for Fiber Optic Infrastructure in Morton County WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has awarded a $2,828,547 grant to BEK Communications Cooperative (BEK). The funds, provided through USDA's Community Connect Grants program, will be used to install new fiber optic infrastructure to provide businesses and residents with high quality broadband services. Earlier this year, the senator sent a letter to USDA in support of BEK's application. BEK has already constructed over 250 miles of fiber optics in Morton County, and today's investment will build on the cooperative's efforts to provide high quality broadband services to residents and businesses in Morton County, said Hoeven. This fiber optic infrastructure can bring access to additional economic and educational opportunities, improved health care, public safety assistance and more. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-2018-veterans-day-statement,CRAMER 2018 VETERANS DAY STATEMENT,2018-11-11,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer issued the following statement in commemoration of Veterans Day. Cramer will also speak at a Veterans Day event in Bismarck on Sunday. Today, Americans reflect on the freedom won by the brave men and women who have stood for it and those who still fight to protect it. I speak on behalf of many when I say thank you to our veterans and their families who are true patriots, sacrificing time apart for our great nation. Our appreciation cannot be shown enough for the courage and commitment to serve displayed by our military. As Members of Congress, it is our job to make sure our vets are taken care of when they come home and have the resources they need. I encourage you to show your support and appreciation for veterans today, and every day, and thank them for their service. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senator-hoeven-statement-marking-100th-anniversary-of-signing-of-armistice-ending-world-war-i-and-honoring-veterans,Senator Hoeven Statement Marking 100th Anniversary of Signing of Armistice Ending World War I and Honoring Veterans,2018-11-11,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.11.18 Senator Hoeven Statement Marking 100th Anniversary of Signing of Armistice Ending World War I and Honoring Veterans WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, today issued the following statement to mark the 100th anniversary of the signing of the armistice ending World War I and in observance of Veterans Day. Our nation would not be free were it not for our courageous veterans who have risked their lives to preserve our liberty and way of life. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the armistice ending World War I, reminding us of the origins of Veterans Day and how men and women have for generations answered the call to serve our country. Today, we commemorate our veterans and honor their legacies. The gratitude we owe our veterans extends beyond Veterans Day celebrations. This summer, I joined the president as he signed the VA MISSION Act, which improves on the Veterans Choice Program and gives veterans more options near their home communities when seeking health care. We cannot show enough gratitude to our veterans, but in this and other ways, we can honor their bravery and service. Our veterans are the greatest in the world, and it is because of their efforts that America is the greatest nation the world has ever known. Senator Hoeven continues to work to advance legislation and initiatives to help veterans in North Dakota and throughout the country. Some of those efforts include: VA MISSION Act The senator joined the president earlier this year as he signed the VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks (MISSION) Act. The bill improves on the Veterans Choice Program and includes key provisions from Hoeven legislation to increase veterans' access to long-term care options in their home communities. Veterans Choice Program and Veterans Care Coordination Initiative In 2016, Senator Hoeven worked to implement the Veterans Care Coordination initiative at the Fargo VA Health Center, which has helped to significantly reduce wait times for North Dakota veterans in coordinating their health care services through the Veterans Choice Program. Hoeven recently urged TriWest, the nationwide third party administrator for the Veterans Choice Program, to maintain the Veterans Care Coordination initiative at the Fargo VA. Strong Funding to Support Veterans and Increase Health Care Options Closer to Home In the Fiscal Year 2019 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill, Senator Hoeven worked to include funding to support veterans and provide quality health care options closer to home. Expanded Flight-Training Programs for Veterans Senator Hoeven introduced the American Aviator Act, bipartisan legislation to support flight-training services to assist veterans who want to become commercial airline pilots. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-announces-public-schedule-23,CRAMER ANNOUNCES PUBLIC SCHEDULE,2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Contact: Dana.Stancavage@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer announced his public schedule for Nov. 10 11. All times are local. Saturday, November 10 North Dakota Farm Bureau State Annual Meeting *Open Press 5:50 9:00 PM Ramkota Inn Bismarck Sunday, November 11 Annual Veterans Day observance at the North Dakota Heritage Center *Open Press 9:45 11:00 AM Russell Reid Auditorium 612 E Boulevard Ave Bismarck ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-nearly-874-million-in-funding-for-north-dakota-energy-cooperatives,Hoeven Announces Nearly $87.4 Million in Funding for North Dakota Energy Cooperatives,2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.08.18 Hoeven Announces Nearly $87.4 Million in Funding for North Dakota Energy Cooperatives WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has approved two loans totaling nearly $87.4 million for Minnkota Power Cooperative and Grand Electric Cooperative. Details of the funding are as follows: Minnkota Power Cooperative $67,396,000 The funding will be used to make generation and transmission improvements. Grand Electric Cooperative $20,000,000 The funding will be used to build 24 new miles and improve 156 miles of distribution and transmission line, and make other system improvements, including $70,000 in smart gird technologies. Electric cooperatives provide residents throughout our state, especially in our rural areas, with reliable and affordable electricity, said Hoeven. Today's investments will help ensure North Dakotans will continue to have access to the electricity they need to power and heat their homes and businesses. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-to-serve-as-honorary-member-of-national-native-american-veterans-memorial-committee,Hoeven to Serve as Honorary Member of National Native American Veterans Memorial Committee,2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.08.18 Hoeven to Serve as Honorary Member of National Native American Veterans Memorial Committee WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven (R-ND), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, today announced that he will serve as an Honorary Member of the National Native American Veterans Memorial Committee. I am honored that the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) has offered me the opportunity to serve as an Honorary Member of the National Native American Veterans Memorial Committee, Hoeven said. Native Americans enlist in the armed services at a higher rate per capita than any other ethnic group and have bravely served our country for nearly two and a half centuries. I am proud to be a part of recognizing their sacrifice, especially those tribal veterans from my home state of North Dakota. The Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian is building a National Native American Veterans Memorial to honor the long and distinguished service of Native Americans in every branch of the United States Armed Forces. In June , the final Memorial design was selected. The selected design was submitted by Harvey Pratt, a Marine Corps veteran and member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. The NMAI looks to break ground on the Memorial in September of 2019 and hold a Memorial Dedication on Veterans Day 2020. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-administration-reimposing-all-sanctions-on-iran,Hoeven Statement on Administration Reimposing All Sanctions on Iran,2018-11-03,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.03.18 Hoeven Statement on Administration Reimposing All Sanctions on Iran WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the administration announced that it would reinstate all sanctions on Iran that were lifted as part of the nuclear deal, which the president decertified earlier this year. This includes sanctions on Iran's core industries, such as its energy, financial and transportation sectors. Iran has long been a force of destabilization, violence and terrorism in the region, and the previous administration's nuclear deal only emboldened these efforts. All the while, the deal would not have prevented Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, as it lacked sufficient means to ensure compliance. Halting Iran's nuclear ambitions is vital to our national security and that of our allies. These sanctions will help pressure the regime to abandon its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs and limit its ability sponsor terrorism. ""In addition to reinstituting these sanctions, I urge the administration to limit the use of any sanctions waivers for countries that seek to purchase Iranian oil. The administration should also consider further limits on Iran's ability to access the international financial system, including suspending its ability to use international financial messaging services that connect its banks with the global banking system."" -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-statement-on-reinstating-sanctions-on-iran,CRAMER STATEMENT ON REINSTATING SANCTIONS ON IRAN,2018-11-02,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer issued the following statement on the Trump Administration's announcement today to reimpose sanctions on Iran that were lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal: Today's announcement is the latest effort by the Trump Administration to correct one of the worst policies implemented by the Obama Administration and Senate Democrats, and reaffirms the United States' commitment to stand up to aggressive regimes who knowingly support acts of terrorism. I am pleased the Trump Administration will reinforce sanctions on Iranian oil, a decision which will promote greater U.S. exports. These sanctions will put pressure on Iran's economy, which was only emboldened by the disastrous nuclear agreement under President Obama. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-introduces-resolution-designating-november-3rd-as-national-bison-day,Hoeven Introduces Resolution Designating November 3rd as National Bison Day,2018-11-02,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"11.02.18 Hoeven Introduces Resolution Designating November 3rd as National Bison Day Senator Led Efforts to Designate Bison as National Mammal WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that he has introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate November 3rd as National Bison Day. The resolution celebrates America's national mammal, the North American bison, and its significance in United States' history. We worked hard to designate the bison as our national mammal to commemorate its unique and incredible place in American history and culture, said Senator Hoeven. Bison are strong, proud and free, and an important spiritual symbol for many Native Americans. They are a true American icon with an incredible story. The bison was once nearly wiped out, but through our nation's first great conservation effort, they flourish today throughout the United States and North America. This resolution designates November 3 as National Bison Day and commemorates all that the bison means to our nation. Hoeven introduced the bipartisan National Bison Legacy Act which was signed into law in 2016. The legislation designated the bison as the United States' national mammal and recognized its significance in American history. The resolution is cosponsored by the following Senators: Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas). Read the full resolution here. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-statement-on-epa-proposed-rule-to-exempt-livestock-producers-from,CRAMER STATEMENT ON EPA PROPOSED RULE TO EXEMPT LIVESTOCK PRODUCERS FROM EMERGENCY EMISSIONS REPORTING,2018-10-31,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer issued the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed rule to exempt livestock producers from reporting animal waste emissions under Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) and Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) report requirements: I am pleased by the commonsense action taken by EPA under President Trump to lift the burden off many of our agriculture producers in North Dakota. By cutting the red tape of regulations, livestock producers don't have to worry about another regulation irrelevant to them. And, we restore the focus of the reporting requirements on the emergency situations for which they were intended. Cramer was an original co-sponsor of H.R. 5275 to provide a statutory exemption from certain CERCLA notice requirements and penalties for releases of hazardous substances from animal waste at farms. He also signed a letter urging language in the FY2018 omnibus appropriations bill to reaffirm the intent of CERCLA, which was adopted in the final bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-epas-proposed-rule-to-protect-farmers-and-ranchers-from-livestock-emissions-reporting,Hoeven Statement on EPAs Proposed Rule to Protect Farmers and Ranchers from Livestock Emissions Reporting,2018-10-30,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.30.18 Hoeven Statement on EPA's Proposed Rule to Protect Farmers and Ranchers from Livestock Emissions Reporting Senator Urged EPA Administrator to Provide Permanent Solution for Reporting Requirements, Cosponsored Legislation to Exempt Ag Producers WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a proposed rule to exempt agricultural producers from burdensome reporting requirements for animal waste emissions. Hoeven has been pressing the EPA to find a permanent solution to provide certainty and prevent the agency's rule from negatively impacting farmers and ranchers. The senator also helped introduce the Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act, bipartisan legislation authored by Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) that would protect farmers, ranchers and livestock markets from burdensome EPA reporting requirements for livestock emissions. Imposing reporting requirements for livestock emissions from animals in a pasture doesn't make sense and only leads to higher costs for both producers and consumers. That is why we've been pressing EPA to find a solution to provide certainty and to help ensure that farmers and ranchers are able to maintain their operations, said Hoeven. This proposed rule will help provide much needed certainty for producers and is common sense. Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) and Emergency Response and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), the release of hazardous substances into the air over certain thresholds must comply with requirements. These requirements were not intended to affect animal agriculture and instead were meant to address industrial pollution, chemical plant explosions and the release of hazardous materials into the environment. The EPA previously provided exemptions to these rules for agriculture producers, except for confined animal feeding operations, as there is no accepted method for accurately measuring the release of substances like hydrogen sulfide and ammonia from animal waste in a pasture. However, the courts ruled last year that the agency did not have the authority to grant the exemption and agriculture producers must begin reporting emissions. Farmers are already exempted from CERCLA reporting as a result of the August 1, 2018 final rule. Today's proposed rule amends EPCRA reporting requirements to exempt farmers from reporting requirements for animal waste. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-passing-of-former-north-dakota-legislator-rae-ann-kelsch,Hoeven Statement on Passing of Former North Dakota Legislator Rae Ann Kelsch,2018-10-30,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.30.18 Hoeven Statement on Passing of Former North Dakota Legislator Rae Ann Kelsch WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the passing of former state Representative Rae Ann Kelsch, who served in the North Dakota House of Representatives from 1991 to 2012. Mikey and I are truly saddened to hear of Rae Ann's passing. She was not only a friend and colleague, but a true leader on education issues in the state of North Dakota. As governor, I worked with Rae Ann as she led education efforts in the North Dakota House of Representatives and served as a champion for North Dakota's teachers, students and schools. She will be deeply missed. Mikey and I pray for Rae Ann and her family, and send our sincerest condolences to them. -###- Print Email Tweet 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-grants-to-support-education-and-extension-work-at-nd-tribal-land-grant-colleges,Hoeven Announces More Than $1 Million in Grants to Support Education and Extension Work at ND Tribal Land-Grant Colleges,2018-10-25,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.25.18 Hoeven Announces More Than $1 Million in Grants to Support Education and Extension Work at ND Tribal Land-Grant Colleges WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, today announced that the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has provided more than $1 million in grant funding to support extension and education services at North Dakota tribal land-grant colleges. The funding is awarded through the Tribal College Extension Program (TCEP) and Tribal College Extension-Special Emphasis Program (TCEP-SE) These USDA grants provide tribal colleges with resources to provide education and outreach programs to meet needs in their communities. That includes initiatives like community gardens and farmers markets as well as extension programs that teach nutrition, food safety and life skills, said Hoeven. Cankdeska Cikana Community College: $125,000 Fort Berthold Community College: $200,000 Fort Berthold Community College: $125,000 Sitting Bull College: $125,000 Sitting Bull College: $200,000 Turtle Mountain Community College: $125,000 United Tribes Technical College: $125,000 -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-recognizes-former-ag-secretary-ed-schafer-at-ceremony-renaming,CRAMER RECOGNIZES FORMER AG SECRETARY ED SCHAFER AT CEREMONY RENAMING USDA-ARS RESEARCH CENTER IN HIS HONOR,2018-10-24,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"USDA ARS Administrator and Acting Deputy Under Secretary REE Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, Secretary Ed Schafer, Congressman Kevin Cramer FARGO, N.D. Congressman Kevin Cramer joined other state and federal officials in honoring former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and North Dakota Governor Ed Schafer in a ceremony renaming the Red River Valley Agricultural Research Center at North Dakota State University the Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Research Center. Cramer introduced H.R. 2154, authorizing the name change, which was passed by the House of Representatives on May 17, 2017 and the Senate on March 14, 2017. It was signed into law by President Trump on March 27. Schafer was U.S. Agriculture Secretary from 2008 to 2009 and NorthDakota Governor from 1992 to 2000. Cramer praised him for his contributions to agriculture in North Dakota and the state, and for appreciating how public policy impacts people. There is no one more deserving of recognition for his work and commitment to our state and agriculture than Ed, said Cramer. He is a role model to me, and many others, living his life as example for how we all should serve. I look forward to all the work the Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Research Center will continue to do to advance agriculture. Also speaking at the ceremony was USDA Agricultural Research Service Administrator and Acting Deputy Under Secretary Research, Education, and Economics (REE) Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, who said, The Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Research Center will serve as a permanent reminder that, as citizens and as stewards of the public trust, we have a shared responsibility to improve the health and welfare of everyone in this country. In his remarks, Schafer spoke about the importance of North Dakotans taking leadership roles in agriculture and rural America. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-president-signs-into-law-comprehensive-legislation-to-combat-opioid-abuse-with-provisions-hoeven-advanced-to-prevent-sale-and-shipment-of-illicit-synthetic-drugs,Hoeven: President Signs into Law Comprehensive Legislation to Combat Opioid Abuse with Provisions Hoeven Advanced to Prevent Sale & Shipment of Illicit Synthetic Drugs,2018-10-24,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.24.18 Hoeven: President Signs into Law Comprehensive Legislation to Combat Opioid Abuse with Provisions Hoeven Advanced to Prevent Sale & Shipment of Illicit Synthetic Drugs WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed into law comprehensive legislation to combat the opioid abuse crisis that includes provisions the senator cosponsored to prevent the sale and shipment of illicit synthetic drugs like fentanyl. We appreciate the President signing into law this legislation to help combat opioid abuse and provide additional tools to help families and communities impacted by addiction. This legislation is comprehensive and supports prevention, treatment, recovery and law enforcement efforts. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions we worked to advance to prevent the sale and shipment of dangerous drugs like fentanyl. Hoeven worked to include language in the legislation that aligns with the goals of his Illegal Synthetic Drug Safety Act, which closes a loophole that enables bad actors to circumvent the law to sell and distribute illicit synthetic variations of drugs, like the powerful drug fentanyl, by labeling the products as not for human consumption. The language derives from the Synthetic Abuse and Labeling of Toxic Substances (SALTS) Act, of which Hoeven is a cosponsor, and which was included in the bill signed into law today. The senator also cosponsored the Synthetic Trafficking and Overdose Prevention (STOP) Act, which is included in this legislation. This provision requires shipments from foreign countries sent through the U.S. Postal Service to provide electronic data. This will empower Customs and Border Protection to better target potential illegal substances like fentanyl and prevent it from being shipped into the country. Additionally, the legislation signed into law today: Reauthorizes state grants authorized in the 21st Century Cures Act, with a five percent set-aside for tribes. Reauthorizes the following programs through 2023: the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Program, the Department of Justice Drug Court Program and the Drug Free Communities Program. Funds training for staff at Community Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics on dispensing medications for treatment of an opioid use disorder. Increases flexibility for the National Institutes of Health to research non-addictive pain medication. Provides treatment and recovery support services for individuals with a substance use disorder. Allows for 6-year loan repayment agreements with substance use disorder treatment professionals that work in mental health professional shortage areas or counties that have been hardest hit by drug overdose. Increases access to medication-assisted treatment. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-president-trump-signs-infrastructure-bill-advancing-safe-water,CRAMER: PRESIDENT TRUMP SIGNS INFRASTRUCTURE BILL ADVANCING SAFE WATER ACT AND CORPS REFORM,2018-10-23,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"FARGO, N.D. Congressman Kevin Cramer praised President Trump for signing S. 3021, the America's Infrastructure Act of 2018 today, which incorporates H.R. 8, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018. S. 3021, passed by a bipartisan and bicameral Congress in September, includes the WRDA's authorization of Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) activities and builds on previous Corps reform efforts enacted in past two sessions of Congress. This bipartisan legislation continues efforts I've worked on to support investments in our nation's water infrastructure, from flood control to helping communities improve their water systems and improving regulatory reviews, said Cramer. The bill incorporates H.R. 3387, the first reauthorization of the Safe Drinking Water Act since 1996, which was handled by the House Energy and Commerce Committee, on which Cramer is a member. It authorizes almost $4.4 billion over three years for the state drinking water revolving loan fund program, aid to states and utilities with compliance and asset management, updates to antiterrorism and resilience measures at public water systems, and improves transparency for consumers about the quality of their drinking water. Also included is an Indian reservation drinking water program directing 10 projects in the Upper Missouri River Basin to improve water quality, pressure, or services at Indian reservations in North Dakota. It reauthorizes the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan program with some improvements for state loan funds, removes some Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) land use restrictions for the Fargo-Moorhead Diversion Project, and institutes easement review timelines for accessing Missouri River water at Lake Sakakawea and Oahe. The new law requires a study on the Corps' economic and budgetary analyses that determine where project funding is directed. Cramer said this study is important for advancing public-private partnerships, such as the Fargo-Moorhead Diversion Project. It also includes a provision to relieve FEMA open space deed restrictions for the purposes of constructing the Diversion Project. The law includes policy to help access Missouri River water through Corps property by establishing a process and timelines for water intake easements. This includes 120 days for the Corps to make a determination on a complete easement application. Cramer helped institute the prohibition on water storage fees at Garrison and Oahe reservoirs in the 2014 WRDA, and this law extends it for an additional two years. It also includes a study of the future of the Corps, including transferring functions to other federal agencies. The America's Infrastructure Act streamlines the burdensome regulatory approval process for hydropower, including bills previously passed in the House: H.R. 2880, the Promoting Closed-Loop Pumped Storage Hydropower Act; H.R. 2872, the Promoting Hydropower Development at Existing Nonpowered Dams Act; H.R. 2786, to Amend the Federal Power Act with Respect to the Criteria and Process to Qualify as a Qualifying Conduit Hydropower Facility; as well as key provisions from H.R. 3043, the Hydropower Policy Modernization Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-provisions-to-resolve-easements-in-red-river-valley-and-prohibit-surplus-water-fees-on-missouri-river-signed-into-law,Hoeven Provisions to Resolve Easements in Red River Valley & Prohibit Surplus Water Fees on Missouri River Signed Into Law,2018-10-23,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.23.18 Hoeven Provisions to Resolve Easements in Red River Valley & Prohibit Surplus Water Fees on Missouri River Signed Into Law Senator Working to Secure Construction Funding for Fargo-Moorhead Flood Protection in Corps' FY2019 Work Plan WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the president signed into law the America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, also referred to as the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). The legislation includes a Hoeven-sponsored provision to resolve easements on land purchased with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding in the Red River Valley and allow construction of comprehensive flood protection for the region. The senator's provision grants the authority needed to implement Route B, the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton. In addition, the bill includes a two-year extension of a provision Hoeven secured in the 2014 WRDA bill prohibiting the Army Corps from charging storage fees for water drawn from the Missouri River. Hoeven initially introduced his legislation as a standalone bill, the States' Water Rights Act, prior to its inclusion in WRDA. With this extension, Hoeven's provision prevents the Corps from charging fees for using water from the Missouri River reservoirs through 2026. These easements in the Red River Valley threatened to stall our flood protection efforts and impose unnecessary costs on the project's construction, Hoeven said. We worked hard to include this fix in WRDA and pass it into law, allowing construction along the new route to move forward. With this priority complete, we will continue working with the Corps to secure funding in the next work plan and advance flexible financial tools, like WIFIA, to help reduce local costs. Earlier this month, Hoeven outlined his easement provision, as well as measures he secured in the recently-passed Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 Energy and Water funding bill, for leaders from the Fargo-Moorhead region and MG Scott Spellmon, Deputy Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This comes as part of Hoeven's efforts to secure funding for the construction of the region's flood protection project in the Corps' FY2019 work plan. To this end, Hoeven worked as a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee to ensure the funding legislation: Increases the Corps' construction accountby $150 million to ensure priorities like flood protection in the Red River Valley continue to receive funding. Implements the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Programto provide states and local governments with low-cost, flexible funding sources when building water infrastructure. The legislation directs the Corps to complete a detailed plan for implementing WIFIA and provides up to $6 million tosupport WIFIA program implementation. This aligns with Hoeven's legislationto extend the WIFIA program. Ensures fair treatment of public-private partnership (P3)projectsand others that use alternative financing methods during the Corps' cost-benefit analysis, including flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region. The bill requires the Corps to develop a policy on how it will evaluate P3s and incorporate them into its budget. Hoeven also helped advance a provision in the Senate-passed Financial Services and General Government funding bill ensuring the Corps can fund P3s. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-urges-third-party-administrator-triwest-to-continue-veterans-care-coordination-initiative-at-fargo-va,Hoeven Urges Third Party Administrator TriWest to Continue Veterans Care Coordination Initiative at Fargo VA,2018-10-23,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.23.18 Hoeven Urges Third Party Administrator TriWest to Continue Veterans Care Coordination Initiative at Fargo VA Senator Worked with VA to Create Initiative to Reduce Wait Times under Veterans Choice Program WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (VA), today urged David McIntyre, the President and CEO of TriWest Healthcare Alliance, to maintain the Veterans Care Coordination initiative at the Fargo VA Health Care System. Hoeven worked to establish the initiative in 2016 to address long wait times for veterans seeking appointments under the Veterans Choice Program by allowing them to coordinate all of their health care through the Fargo VA, rather than Health Net, the administrator for the program at that time. The initiative also placed a Health Net representative at the Fargo VA to improve provider reimbursements and reduce denial of veterans' claims. Due to its success, the initiative was extended to additional VA facilities around the nation. The VA recently announced that TriWest was selected to serve as the nationwide third party administrator for the Veterans Choice Program. Accordingly, Hoeven is pressing TriWest to continue the Veterans Care Coordination initiative and further expand it to areas of the country where veterans are still facing unacceptable wait times for appointments with community providers. The full text of Hoeven's letter to McIntyre can be found here. Our veterans deserve access to timely health care appointments, whether through the VA or with community providers, said Hoeven. That's why we need to continue the success of our Veterans Care Coordination initiative, which is exactly what we're urging TriWest to do. This will help provide certainty for our veterans who rely on local medical services and cannot afford or risk travelling long distances to reach a VA facility. Moreover, maintaining our initiative in Fargo will help provide a smooth transition for veterans as the implementation of the VA MISSION Act progresses and we move to the next phase of the Veterans Choice Program. Today's letter comes as part of Hoeven's continued efforts to ensure the smooth implementation of the VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks (MISSION) Act. To this end, the senator is working with local stakeholders and veterans in North Dakota as well as administration officials, including VA Secretary Robert Wilkie, Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma, to ensure the law achieves the intent of Congress and provides veterans with better access to health care closer to home. This includes the provisions Hoeven secured in the VA MISSION Act that allow the VA to enter into provider agreements with qualified long-term care facilities. Hoeven's measure will provide relief from expensive federal contracting requirements and enable more long-term care providers to accept veteran patients. Further, Hoeven secured a provision in the Fiscal Year 2019 funding legislation that stresses the importance ofprompt payment and ensuring timely reimbursementfor non-VA providers. The measure also directs the VA to facilitate the completion of any outstanding claims for payment. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-announces-public-schedule-22,CRAMER ANNOUNCES PUBLIC SCHEDULE,2018-10-18,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Contact: Dana.Stancavage@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer announced his public schedule for Oct. 22 - 25. All times are local. Monday, October 22 Minot Joint Service Club Meeting *Open Press 12:00 PM 1:00 PM Grand Hotel Minot Tuesday, October 23 USDA Agricultural Research Service Renaming Ceremony Honoring Former Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer *Open Press 10:00 AM 11:30 AM Red River Valley Agricultural Research Center 1605 Albrecht Blvd N Fargo Microsoft Campus Visit and Employee Townhall *Open Press 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 4550 42nd St S Fargo North Dakota Petroleum Marketers Association Meeting *Open Press 4:00 PM 5:00 PM Marriott Delta Fargo Wednesday, October 24 Talk Radio Town Hall with Scott Hennen 550 KFYR AM 1100 WZFG AM 1090 KTGO AM 1460 KLTC AM 9:05 AM Listen Link Talk Radio Town Hall with Rob Port 970 WDAY AM 1:30 PM Listen Link Thursday, October 25 Talk Radio Town Hall with Jarrod Thomas 1310 KNOX AM 10:05 AM Listen Link Talk Radio Town Hall with Rick Jensen KHND 1470 AM 10:40 AM Listen Link North Dakota School Boards Association Annual Convention *Open Press 4:00 PM 4:10 PM Ramkota Hotel 800 S 3rd St Bismarck ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-outlines-his-recently-passed-measures-to-resolve-easement-issues-support-p3s-and-provide-flexible-funding-for-construction-of-fargo-moorhead-region-flood-protection-project,"Hoeven Outlines His Recently-Passed Measures to Resolve Easement Issues, Support P3s & Provide Flexible Funding for Construction of Fargo-Moorhead Region Flood Protection Project",2018-10-17,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.17.18 Hoeven Outlines His Recently-Passed Measures to Resolve Easement Issues, Support P3s & Provide Flexible Funding for Construction of Fargo-Moorhead Region Flood Protection Project FARGO, N.D. In a meeting with MG Scott Spellmon, Deputy Commanding General for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and leaders from the Fargo-Moorhead region today, Senator John Hoeven outlined provisions he secured in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) and the Fiscal Year 2019 Energy and Water funding bill to help resolve the easement issue and provide funding to move forward construction of comprehensive flood protection in the Red River Valley. Both the WRDA and Energy and Water funding bill were recently approved by Congress and sent to the president to be signed into law. WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT Resolves easement issue to Enable Route B: Hoeven included his provision to resolve easements on land purchased with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding. The senator's provision grants the authority needed to implement Route B, the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton. Accordingly, Hoeven urged MG Spellmon to help ensure funding is included for the project's construction in the Corps' Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 work plan. FISCAL YEAR 2019 ENERGY AND WATER FUNDING BILL As a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven secured the following priorities in the bill: Increases the Corps' construction accountby $150 million to ensure priorities like flood protection in the Red River Valley continue to receive funding. Implements the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Programto provide states and local governments with low-cost, flexible funding sources when building water infrastructure. The legislation directs the Corps to complete a detailed plan for implementing WIFIA and provides up to $6 million tosupport WIFIA program implementation. This aligns with Hoeven's legislationto extend the WIFIA program. Ensures fair treatment of public-private partnership (P3)projectsand others that use alternative financing methods during the Corps' cost-benefit analysis, including flood protection in the Fargo-Moorhead region. The bill requires the Corps to develop a policy on how it will evaluate P3s and incorporate them into its budget. Hoeven also helped advance a provision in the Senate-passed Financial Services and General Government funding bill ensuring the Corps can fund P3s. We've worked hard to clear the way for the construction of Fargo-Moorhead's comprehensive flood protection, Hoeven said. Our provision in WRDA resolves the easements that would've prevented the project from being realigned. That's a big win for the region. Now, we are going to continue our efforts to secure funding, through the Corps and programs like WIFIA. The funding bill we passed earlier this year advances these priorities by increasing the Corps' construction account and provides funding to implement the Corps' WIFIA program. Coupled with our measures in support of P3 projects, this project is well-positioned to receive funding in next year's work plan. That is exactly what we are urging MG Spellmon and other Corps officials to do, and we appreciate him taking the time to visit the region and learn more about this critical effort. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-sba-administrator-linda-mcmahon-to-keynote-2018-state-of-technology-conference,Hoeven: SBA Administrator Linda McMahon to Keynote 2018 State of Technology Conference,2018-10-16,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.16.18 Hoeven: SBA Administrator Linda McMahon to Keynote 2018 State of Technology Conference Annual Conference Will Highlight Local Innovators, Serves as Catalyst for Tech Development & Investment FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today announced that the head of the Small Business Administration (SBA), Linda McMahon, will keynote his State of Technology Conference this year. The conference, which the senator hosts with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce each year, will be held on the morning of Friday, November 30, at the Delta Hotel in Fargo. McMahon will join Hoeven in North Dakota so she can learn firsthand about the broad range of innovative technology developments occurring in the state, which have impacts across industry sectors and around the globe. Further, McMahon's visit will serve as an opportunity for local businesses to benefit from learning directly about the work SBA is undertaking to assist and promote small business growth across the country. We've built the kind of business climate in North Dakota that empowers innovators and entrepreneurs to succeed, Hoeven said. That's why we continue to expand our leadership in a wide variety of technology developments, including unmanned aircraft, mobile technologies and biotech. The SBA is an important partner in these efforts, providing financial and technical assistance that helps small businesses start and grow their operations. We're very excited to host Administrator McMahon at this year's State of Technology Conference. This will provide a great opportunity to identify how we can better leverage SBA's resources to take advantage of the unique convergences between established industries and tech startups in our state. Hoeven hosts the State of Technology Conference to highlight breakthrough technologies and the local innovators creating them. The conference has served as a catalyst for new innovation and investment in the state and is part of the senator's work to position North Dakota as a hub of technology entrepreneurship, the third wave in the state's economic growth. His efforts have helped realize new opportunities for the state's core industries, including agriculture and energy, while also bringing high-tech startups and multinational corporations to communities across the state. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-commends-jay-myers-appointment-to-united-soybean-board,CRAMER COMMENDS JAY MYERS APPOINTMENT TO UNITED SOYBEAN BOARD,2018-10-15,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer congratulated Jay Myers, a Colfax, N.D., farmer, for his three-year appointment by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to the United Soybean Board: Jay Myers is an excellent choice for this prestigious appointment. His experience and expertise will add real value to the important work of the board. I look forward to working with him and Secretary Perdue to increase uses and markets for soybeans. More information can be found at unitedsoybean.org. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-greater-fargo-moorhead-edc-local-consortium-submit-bid-to-host-new-nifa-and-ers-locations,"Hoeven: Greater Fargo-Moorhead EDC, Local Consortium Submit Bid to Host New NIFA & ERS Locations",2018-10-15,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.15.18 Hoeven: Greater Fargo-Moorhead EDC, Local Consortium Submit Bid to Host New NIFA & ERS Locations Senator Formed Working Group Following USDA Reorganization Announcement FARGO, N.D. Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today announced that the Greater Fargo-Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (GFMEDC) has submitted its proposal to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for North Dakota to host the new locations for the Economic Research Service (ERS) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The proposal comes as the result of a working group Hoeven organized, which consists of the GFMEDC, North Dakota Department of Commerce, Bank of North Dakota, North Dakota State University (NDSU), the City of Fargo, the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce and the congressional delegation. Following our first meeting in August, the consortium has been hard at work to pull this bid together, said Hoeven. We appreciate all of our local partners, including the Greater Fargo-Moorhead EDC who led this effort, for their contributions to building this strong proposal. Fargo is a vibrant community with a world-class agriculture research and land-grant institution, thriving tech industry and a low cost of living. We will continue to move this effort forward with USDA's officials and look forward to their review of the proposal. Hoeven began forming the working group immediately following the USDA's announced reorganzation. The goal is to enhance the USDA's efficiency, effectiveness and customer service, ensuring the department works well for farmers and ranchers. Accordingly, proposals will be evaluated based on four criteria: logistics, workforce, community/quality of life and capital costs. Fargo-Moorhead is well-positioned to help accomplish these goals. The proposal makes this case by highlighting the region's high graduation rate and large student population, NDSU's status as a globally-recognized land-grant institution, low business and living costs and access to robust transportation and telecommunications infrastructure, including high-speed fiber internet services, among other things. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-urges-secretary-nielsen-to-utilize-grand-sky-in-expanding-uas-border-operations-and-implementing-counter-uas-legislation,Hoeven Urges Secretary Nielsen to Utilize Grand Sky in Expanding UAS Border Operations & Implementing Counter-UAS Legislation,2018-10-12,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.12.18 Hoeven Urges Secretary Nielsen to Utilize Grand Sky in Expanding UAS Border Operations & Implementing Counter-UAS Legislation Senator Follows up on DHS Secretary's Visit to North Dakota, Continues Advancing Capabilities to Protect Against UAS Misuse & Strengthen Border Security WASHINGTON At a hearing of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC) this week, Senator John Hoeven urged Kirstjen Nielsen, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to make use of Grand Sky, North Dakota's unmanned aerial systems (UAS) research and development park, as the agency works to grow its UAS border security operations. U.S. Customs and Border Protection currently flies Predator unmanned aircraft out of Grand Forks to help secure 900 miles of border. Secretary Nielsen committed to work with Hoeven as the agency looks to expand this mission. Further, the senator stressed the role Grand Sky can play in implementing the Preventing Emerging Threats Act of 2018. This bipartisan legislation, which Hoeven helped introduce and Congress passed last week, protects important facilities from security risks posed by unmanned aircraft and directs the DHS to conduct research and test technology to address emerging threats posed by the potential misuse of UAS. This week's hearing builds on Secretary Nielsen's recent visit to North Dakota, which the senator arranged to demonstrate how the state is uniquely positioned to develop counter-UAS capabilities and strengthen border security through expanded unmanned aircraft operations. North Dakota is at the forefront of the UAS industry, which Secretary Nielsen got to see firsthand during her visit in August, Hoeven said. The administration is already a strong partner in our UAS efforts, and it only makes sense that federal agencies continue to rely on our local expertise and facilities, like Grand Sky, as they work to address the latest issues and opportunities in the UAS sector. We're urging Secretary Nielsen to do just that as DHS looks to increase the use of UAS in securing our borders and as it implements our Preventing Emerging Threats Act. We will continue to monitor these priorities, both to secure North Dakota's role and to provide any future authority or funding that is needed to move these efforts forward. Hoeven remains committed to advancing the development and implementation of these much-needed security capabilities, while also advocating for the administration to utilize North Dakota's UAS industry in such efforts. To this end, the senator has worked to promote the following priorities: Advancing the safe integration of unmanned aircraft into the NAS. Hoeven worked to ensure the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill passed last week extends authorization through 2023 for the UAS test sites, including the Northern Plains UAS Test Site in North Dakota. Further, Hoeven: Joined Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao to announce that North Dakota wasselectedas one of ten sites to participate in the FAA's UAS integration pilot program. Hosted U.S. Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson in the state for the first flight of an unmanned aircraft that goes both beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) of the operator and without a chase plane.This achievement was possible due to two key items Hoeven secured in recent years, including an updated certificate of authorization for the test site from the FAA and upgrades to the DASR-11 radar system at the Grand Forks Air Force Base and a similar system in Fargo. Developing counter-UAS technologies. Hoeven has included $13 million for counter-UAS technologies in Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 funding legislation, while also directing DHS to report on its funding needs in this area for the next five years. Allowing both the National Guard and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) touse private contractors, like those at Grand Sky, to train their UAS pilots. Hoeven's National Guard measure wassigned into lawlast year, and his CBP provision is included in FY2019 funding legislation. Maintaining the Global Hawk UAS mission. As a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, the senator secured $100 million in the FY2019 funding legislation to provide for the purchase of an additional Global Hawk aircraft to carry the Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) payload in Grand Forks. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-welcomes-fall-interns-to-his-offices-in-washington-dc-and-fargo,"Hoeven Welcomes Fall Interns to His Offices in Washington, D.C. & Fargo",2018-10-12,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.12.18 Hoeven Welcomes Fall Interns to His Offices in Washington, D.C. & Fargo WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that Christian Miller and Claire Welch are interning in his Washington, D.C. office this fall and Austin Stolpestad is interning in his Fargo office. Senator Hoeven's internship program provides college students and recent graduates with the opportunity to work with the senator and his staff on legislative, communications and administrative projects. We welcome Claire and Christian to our D.C. office and Austin to our Fargo office, Hoeven said. Over the course of this semester, they have committed to helping my office and serving the people of North Dakota. We hope their experiences are enriching, and we thank them for their work. Christian Miller Christian Miller grew up in Chicago. He is a senior at George Washington University (GWU) where he is majoring in Political Science and minoring in International Affairs and History. He is a member of the College Republicans and works on the GWU Strategic Crisis Simulations which prepares military academy cadets to address diplomatic situations and foreign affairs crises. He plans to pursue a career in public service. Austin Stolpestad Austin Stolpestad grew up in Monticello, Minn. He is a senior at Minnesota State University-Moorhead majoring in Political Science and minoring in Aerospace Studies. He plans to pursue a commission in the U.S. Air Force through North Dakota State University's Air Force ROTC program. Claire Welch Claire Welch is the daughter of Wes and Sandi Welch and grew up in Park River, N.D. She is a senior at the University of Minnesota where she is studying Political Science and Italian. She has served as president of Kappa Kappa Gamma and is involved with several other student organizations. More Information about Senator Hoeven's Internship Program Senator Hoeven offers internship opportunities in his Washington, D.C. and state offices. North Dakota students interested in applying for the program should submit an application online. The deadline for applications for fall internships, which run from January through May, is November 1st. Questions can be directed to (202) 224-2551. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-congratulates-burton-pfliger-on-usda-appointment,CRAMER CONGRATULATES BURTON PFLIGER ON USDA APPOINTMENT,2018-10-11,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer released the following statement on the appointment of Burton Pfliger of Bismarck, N.D., as the Expert in Finance and Management of the National Sheep Industry Improvement Center Board of Directors. The announcement was made yesterday by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, detailing the three year term Pfliger will serve. Sonny Perdue made a great pick. Not only does Burt have a perfect background and qualifications for this appointment, but he is a patriotic North Dakotan who will represent his industry and his state with great distinction. Click here to read more. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-usda-rural-development-funding-for-ndarec-and-city-of-new-salem,Hoeven Announces USDA Rural Development Funding for NDAREC & City of New Salem,2018-10-11,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.11.18 Hoeven Announces USDA Rural Development Funding for NDAREC & City of New Salem WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has awarded a $200,000 grant to the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC) and provided a more than $1.2 million loan to the City of New Salem. Details of the funds are as follows: North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives $200,000 grant The funds will be used for several projects including working with the Center for Rural Health at the University of North Dakota to identify opportunities for rural home care cooperatives, supporting a meat processing plant in Pettibone and developing food purchasing cooperatives in rural areas. City of New Salem $1,253,000 loan The funds will be used to replace streets in conjunction with other work to replace the city's water and sewage infrastructure, for which New Salem has received additional Rural Development grant and loan funding. Today's funding will help empower rural residents and businesses by leveraging cooperative strength to secure improved health care and nutritional opportunities, Hoeven said. The funding for New Salem will enable the replacement of the city's streets as work is done to replace 80 to 90 year old water infrastructure. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-dallas-carlson-confirmed-as-us-marshal-for-district-of-north-dakota,Hoeven: Dallas Carlson Confirmed as U.S. Marshal for District of North Dakota,2018-10-11,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.11.18 Hoeven: Dallas Carlson Confirmed as U.S. Marshal for District of North Dakota WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Senate has confirmed Dallas Carlson to serve as the U.S. Marshal for the District of North Dakota. Carlson has served as the director of the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (NDBCI) since 2011. The Senate has now confirmed Dallas Carlson to serve as the U.S. Marshal for North Dakota. Dallas has worked in various law enforcement capacities for more than 35 years, most recently serving as the head of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, said Hoeven. Dallas has the right background and expertise, and will continue to serve the people of North Dakota well in this new role. Carlson began his 29 year career at NDBCI as a special agent before being promoted to chief agent and finally director of NDBCI. Prior to his time at NDBCI, he worked for the Devils Lake and Mandan police departments and the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office. Carlson has a bachelor's degree from Dickinson State University and has trained at the North Dakota Law Enforcement Training Academy, as well as the FBI National Academy. Duties of the U.S. Marshal include protecting the federal judiciary, apprehending federal fugitives, managing seized assets, housing and transporting federal prisoners and operating the Witness Security Program. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/congress-passes-legislation-with-hoeven-sponsored-provision-to-address-easements-in-red-river-valley-advance-comprehensive-flood-protection,"Congress Passes Legislation with Hoeven-Sponsored Provision to Address Easements in Red River Valley, Advance Comprehensive Flood Protection",2018-10-10,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.10.18 Congress Passes Legislation with Hoeven-Sponsored Provision to Address Easements in Red River Valley, Advance Comprehensive Flood Protection Legislation Also Extends Senator's Prohibition on Corps Water Storage Fees, Follows Funding Measures to Support Army Corps Construction & WIFIA Implementation WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today joined the Senate in passing the America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, also referred to as the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). The legislation includes a Hoeven-sponsored provision to resolve easements on land purchased with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding in the Red River Valley and allow construction of comprehensive flood protection for the region. The senator's provision grants the authority needed to implement Route B, the changes recommended by the joint task force convened by Governors Doug Burgum and Mark Dayton. The legislation has passed both chambers of Congress and now goes to the president to be signed into law. The inclusion of our easement legislation in the final WRDA bill is an essential step for advancing comprehensive flood protection in the Red River Valley, Hoeven said. Combined with the Army Corps funding we recently secured, this will help construction move forward, bringing us ever closer to providing communities in the region with security and certainty. In addition, the bill includes a two-year extension through 2026 of a provision Hoeven secured in the 2014 WRDA bill prohibiting the Army Corps from charging storage fees for water drawn from the Missouri River. Hoeven initially introduced his legislation as a standalone bill, the States' Water Rights Act, prior to its inclusion in WRDA. With this extension, Hoeven's provision prevents the Corps from charging fees for using water from the Missouri River reservoirs through 2026. Hoeven said this provision remains critically important for communities in North Dakota, especially those along the Missouri River, which have a right to use the surplus water in the reservoir system. The legislation passed today dovetails with measures Hoeven included in the Fiscal Year 2019 Energy and Water funding bill, which was recently signed into law. As a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven worked to ensure the bill provided the funding the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers needs to deliver flood protection to North Dakota's communities, while also advancing the implementation of the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA), which provides states and local governments with flexible funding sources when building water infrastructure. Specifically, the funding legislation: Includes a $150 million increase forArmy Corps construction projects. Directs the Corps to complete a detailed plan for implementing WIFIA and provides up to $6 million tosupport WIFIA program implementation. This will provide low-cost loans and loan guarantees for water infrastructure and aligns with Hoeven's legislationto extend the WIFIA program. -###- Print Email Tweet 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-182000-grant-for-canola-research-at-ndsu,"Hoeven Announces More Than $182,000 Grant For Canola Research at NDSU",2018-10-10,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.10.18 Hoeven Announces More Than $182,000 Grant For Canola Research at NDSU WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded a $182,200 grant to North Dakota State University (NDSU). The funds will be used to conduct agriculture research to optimize canola production in North Dakota and the surrounding region. North Dakota is the top producer of canola in the country, Hoeven said. Today's funding will help decrease input costs and increase yields, which will help empower farmers and further diversify our state's agriculture economy. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-statement-on-president-trump-s-e-15-decision,CRAMER STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMPS E-15 DECISION,2018-10-09,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer released the following statement after President Trump announced his rulemaking decision on ethanol blends up to 15 percent: I welcome President Trump's announcement directing the EPA to provide a Reid vapor pressure waiver for ethanol blends up to 15 percent to be sold year round, allowing additional ethanol consumption if the consumer demands it.This is good news for North Dakota's corn and ethanol producers. I have always been an advocate for reducing regulation that prohibits market demand if there's no sound basis for doing so.I'm also pleased to see the President call for greater transparency improvements to the RFS credit market, building off the improvements acting Administrator Wheeler announced last month to help prevent market manipulation. I look forward to reviewing the proposed rules from the administration and working with North Dakota stakeholders throughout this process to get the best outcome possible for our producers, industry and consumers. Cramer has been a longtime supporter of the action taken by the President, including an original co-sponsor of H.R. 1311, the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which would extend the Reid vapor pressure waiver for gasoline blended with more than 10 percent ethanol.The maximum allowable Reid vapor pressure regulation for summertime gasoline blends set by the EPA is established to reduce emissions of pollutants that form ground level ozone.Research has shown, from a vapor pressure perspective, there is no reason to treat higher blends of ethanol differently from E10. The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), which requires minimum volumes of renewable fuel in U.S. transportation fuel, is monitored for compliance using tradable credits called renewable identification numbers (RINs). President Trump has called for limiting RIN purchases only to those required to comply with the RFS, refiners and importers, otherwise known as obligated parties. He also called for public disclosure of certain large holders of RINs and limiting the length of time a non-obligated party can hold RINs, among other reforms for consideration.Last month, the EPA released new public information and committed to greater transparency of the RFS program. Cramer is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on the Environment which has jurisdiction over the Clean Air Act and the RFS.He was also selected to serve on a bipartisan RFS working group with five other members of the Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-outlines-growing-need-for-modern-nuclear-deterrent-efforts-to-advance-mafb-priorities-at-task-force-21-conference,"Hoeven Outlines Growing Need For Modern Nuclear Deterrent, Efforts To Advance MAFB Priorities At Task Force 21 Conference",2018-10-09,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.09.18 Hoeven Outlines Growing Need For Modern Nuclear Deterrent, Efforts To Advance Mafb Priorities At Task Force 21 Conference Through Appropriations Committee, Senator Secured Strong FY 2019 Funding for Minot Missions, Including New B-52 Engines, Missile Replacements & Helicopter Facility WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today outlined the growing importance of a modern nuclear deterrent and his efforts to secure critical funding for upgrades to the nation's forces, including the dual-nuclear mission at the Minot Air Force Base. Hoeven delivered the remarks at the 2018 Triad Conference, an annual event hosted by Task Force 21. Earlier this year, the senator joined members of the task force at the Pentagon to advance the priorities of the Minot base with Air Force officials, including Matt Donovan, Under Secretary of the Air Force, and Lt. Gen. Jack Weinstein, Deputy Chief of Staff of Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration. As we continue to face rogue regimes and instability around the world, the efforts of the men and women at the Minot Air Force Base become ever more important, Hoeven said. That's why we've worked hard to revitalize our nation's nuclear forces. This is a goal toward which we continue to make tremendous progress, having secured strong funding this year for new B-52 engines, the missile replacement programs, warhead refurbishment and improved helicopter security for our missile fields. We appreciate the persistence and determination of all of our partners, both from local organizations like Task Force 21 and in the administration, in moving these priorities forward. But there is still more to do, and I will continue my efforts to ensure our nuclear deterrent has the capabilities needed to protect our nation against threats for years to come. Hoeven serves as a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, as well as the committees overseeing appropriations for energy development and military construction. Through these roles, the senator successfully included the following priorities in the Fiscal Year 2019 funding bills, which were recently passed by Congress and signed into law: Nearly $665 million for theLong Range Stand Off(LRSO) missile to replace the aging Air Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM) carried on the B-52. This is $50 million above the administration's request and allows the program to continue moving ahead of schedule. $655 million to extend the life of the W80 warhead, which flies on the ALCM at Minot Air Force Base and will transfer to the LRSO replacement missile. Nearly $540 million to sustain the existing fleet ofintercontinental ballistic missiles(ICBMs). $414 million for theGround-Based Strategic Deterrent(GBSD) program to replace the Minuteman III. $400 million forupgrades to the B-52,including the procurement ofnew engines. $258 million toreplace the UH-1N Huey helicoptersused to secure the ICBM silos. $66 million for a new helicopter facility at the Minot Air Force Base. The existing facilities are aging and will not accommodate new helicopters that will replace the Hueys. $53 million to refurbish the W78 warheads that fly on the Minuteman III and will transfer to the replacement missile following the GBSD program. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-administrations-announcement-on-year-round-e15,Hoeven Statement on Administrations Announcement on Year-Round E15,2018-10-09,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.09.18 Hoeven Statement on Administration's Announcement on Year-Round E15 WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the president directed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to extend the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver to include 15% ethanol blended gasoline (E15) and stabilize the Renewable Identification Number (RIN) market. The president has now directed both the EPA and the USDA to address the RVP issue, which will enable E15 to be sold year-round. This is a helpful for farmers who will have increased market for their products as well as consumers who will have more options at the fuel pump. At the same time, EPA needs to address the small refinery exemption to increase transparency and ensure that it works for both traditional and renewable energy producers. We look forward to reviewing EPA's proposed rule to ensure that it works for bothtraditional and renewable energy producers. Hoeven has spoken with both U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue and EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler to encourage them to address the RVP issue and to improve transparency in the small refinery exemption to ensure that the renewable fuel standard is fair to both renewable and traditional industries. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-technology-state-led-regulation-and-infrastructure-investment-are-central-to-americas-energy-future,"Hoeven: Technology, State-Led Regulation & Infrastructure Investment Are Central to Americas Energy Future",2018-10-08,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.08.18 Hoeven: Technology, State-Led Regulation & Infrastructure Investment Are Central to America's Energy Future BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today kicked off the 2018 Great Plains and Empower ND Conference as part of a roundtable with the congressional delegation and Lt. Governor Brent Sanford on efforts to advance an all-of-the-above approach to energy production at the state and national level. Hoeven stressed the importance of developing cutting-edge new technologies, such as carbon capture and sequestration (CCS), in helping produce more energy with better environmental stewardship. Further, the senator outlined his work to provide regulatory relief to empower states to make the best use of all of their energy resources, while also supporting infrastructure investment to bring energy to market affordably, reliably and safely. Families and businesses rely on access to affordable and reliable energy every day, all across America, Hoeven said. This is essential to our quality of life, and we continue to move new technologies forward that will allow us achieve the dual goals of strong energy production and reducing emissions. Innovation will deliver these results, not burdensome and duplicative federal rules. That's why we are working to alleviate the regulatory burden and make states the primary authority over energy development. Our infrastructure is also in need of repair and modernization to meet the demands of our economy and growing energy production. Accordingly, we are advancing measures to spur investment that will address this critical need. Advancing CCS Technology As a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven worked to include the following priorities in the Fiscal Year 2019 funding legislation that was passed by Congress and signed into law last month: $30 million to support the development of commercial-scale carbon capture technology to be retrofitted on an existing power plant, funding for which the next phase ofProject Tundrawould be eligible. $25 million to develop supercritical CO2 technologies for coal and natural gas plants like theAllam Cycle. Increased funding for the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) carbon capture and storage research programs. A provision supporting DOE's cooperative agreements with institutions like the Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) at the University of North Dakota. The senator also continues working to advance hisCO2 Regulatory Certainty Act,which would ensure developers of CCS projects can use the Section 45Q tax credit, as well as an extension of the Section 45refined coal tax credit. Providing Regulatory Relief Stopping the Waters of the U.S. RuleHoeven worked through the Appropriations Committee to defund the regulation in 2016 and 2017. Last year, the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issueda proposal to roll back the rule and restore the regulations that were in place prior to WOTUS. Repealing Burdensome Energy Regulations Hoeven has joined Congress and the administration in rolling back regulations that hamper domestic energy production, including: The EPA's costly rules for coal-generating power plants. The Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) hydraulic fracturing rule. The moratorium on federal coal leasing. The Stream Buffer Rule. Cosponsoring and voting for a resolution to repeal the BLM methane rule. Preventing Permit Delays for Oil & Gas Wells Hoeven'sBureau of Land Management (BLM) Mineral Spacing Actwould direct BLM to establish a pilot program to waive the requirement for a federal permit when less than 50 percent of subsurface minerals are owned or held in trust by the federal government and there is no federal surface land. Supporting Infrastructure Investment Streamlining Approval of Cross-Border Infrastructure Hoeven recently reintroduced hisNorth American Energy Infrastructure Act, which wouldpreventunnecessary delays for important energy infrastructure projects, like pipelines and electrical transmission lines, that cross the national boundaries between the U.S. and Canada or Mexico. Expediting Gas-Gathering Infrastructure Hoeven has worked toreducenatural gas flaring by addressing the BLM's backlog of permit applications for gas-gathering infrastructure and pressing for workable, state-led regulations. The senator helped introduce the bipartisanNatural Gas Gathering Enhancement Actlast Congress, which sets deadlines for and expedites the permitting of natural gas gathering lines on federal and Indian land. Advancing the Use of Public-Private Partnerships (P3) Hoeven reintroduced his Move America Act this Congress, which would provide tax credits and tax-exempt bonds to help fund P3s to grow and improve the country's infrastructure. Qualified projects include roads, bridges, transit, ports, rail, airports, water and sewer facilities and broadband. The senator is advocating the use of P3s, which provide greater flexibility to local governments, to help address the nation's backlog of infrastructure projects, including those under the Army Corps. Hoeven's efforts dovetail with an executive orderissuedby the president last year to streamline the review and permitting process for major infrastructure projects. The order implemented a single, streamlined policy for federal decisions, with all relevant agencies working under a lead agency and signing a joint Record of Decision. The order also set a two-year goal to process all environmental documents for all major infrastructure projects. -###- 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-confirmation-of-justice-kavanaugh,Hoeven Statement on Confirmation of Justice Kavanaugh,2018-10-06,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.06.18 Hoeven Statement on Confirmation of Justice Kavanaugh WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after voting to confirm Judge Brett Kavanaugh to serve as an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States: I voted to confirm Judge Kavanaugh because he is well-qualified to serve on the United States Supreme Court. As a judge for 12 years on the D.C. Circuit Court, he has shown a strong commitment to upholding the rule of law, rather than legislating from the bench. His judicial record shows him to be a fair and impartial jurist with deep respect for the Constitution. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-announces-public-schedule-21,CRAMER ANNOUNCES PUBLIC SCHEDULE,2018-10-05,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer announced his public schedule for Oct. 8 Oct. 12. All times are local. Monday, October 8 Great Plains & EmPower ND Energy Conference State and National Energy Policy Roundtable *Open Press 8:15 AM Bismarck State College Bavendick Stateroom at the NECE Bismarck, ND Great Plains & EmPower ND Energy Conference *Press Conference 9:30 AM Bismarck State College Bavendick Stateroom at the NECE Bismarck, ND Wednesday, October 10 Talk Radio Town Hall with Scott Hennen 550 KFYR AM 1100 WZFG AM 1090 KTGO AM 1460 KLTC AM 9:05 AM Listen Link Talk Radio Town Hall with Rob Port 970 WDAY AM 1:30 PM Listen Link Thursday, October 11 Talk Radio Town Hall with Jarrod Thomas 1310 KNOX AM 10:05 AM Listen Link Talk Radio Town Hall with Rick Jensen KHND 1470 AM 10:40 AM Listen Link Friday, October 12 Meeting on Border Security w/ Senator Joni Ernst *Open Press 2:30 PM Location TBD Ethanol Roundtable and Tour *Open Press 4:30 PM Tharaldson Ethanol 3549 153rd Ave SE Casselton, ND ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-usda-issues-disaster-county-declarations-for-north-dakota-0,CRAMER: USDA ISSUES DISASTER COUNTY DECLARATIONS FOR NORTH DAKOTA,2018-10-05,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released a disaster declaration list for additional counties in North Dakota. In two letters from the USDA, disaster designations were identified for the following counties in North Dakota. The U.S. drought monitor shows 76 percent of the state experiencing drought conditions ranging from D0 D4. For more information, visit cramer.house.gov/drought. The counties on the disaster declaration list are: USDA New Disaster Counties Designated Contiguous Counties 05/25/18 Billings, Bowman, Burleigh, Dunn, Emmons, Adams, Burke, Dickey, Golden Valley, Grant, Hettinger, McIntosh,Divide, Kidder, LaMoure, McKenzie, McLean, Mercer, Morton, Mountrail, Logan, McHenry, Pierce, Oliver, Sheridan, Sioux, Slope, Stark, Ward, WilliamsRenville, Wells 09/26/18 Renville, Ward Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, McLean, Mountrail 10/05/18 Eddy, Foster, Nelson, Wells Benson, Griggs, Pierce, Sheridan, Stutsman, Grand Forks, Kidder, Ramsey, Steele, Walsh ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-vote-to-move-forward-with-confirmation-of-judge-kavanaugh,Hoeven Statement on Vote to Move Forward with Confirmation of Judge Kavanaugh,2018-10-05,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.05.18 Hoeven Statement on Vote to Move Forward with Confirmation of Judge Kavanaugh WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after voting to advance the confirmation of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to serve as an associate justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. The Senate is expected to hold a final vote on the nomination tomorrow: I voted to move forward with Judge Kavanaugh's confirmation based on his strong record of upholding the law and strictly interpreting the Constitution. During the confirmation process, Judge Kavanaugh testified for more than 30 hours before the Senate Judiciary Committee and answered more than 1,300 written questions. During his 25 years of public service Judge Kavanaugh has undergone seven FBI investigations, and yesterday's report is consistent with the previous six. The new FBI report found no evidence of misconduct by Judge Kavanaugh nor did the FBI find any evidence to corroborate the allegations. Judge Kavanaugh has served for 12 years on the D.C. Circuit Court, the second highest court in the nation, and has a shown himself to be an impartial and fair jurist. He is well-qualified to serve on the United States Supreme Court. -###- 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-passes-hoeven-legislation-enabling-homeowners-around-patterson-lake-and-jamestown-reservoir-to-purchase-lots,Senate Passes Hoeven Legislation Enabling Homeowners Around Patterson Lake & Jamestown Reservoir to Purchase Lots,2018-10-05,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.05.18 Senate Passes Hoeven Legislation Enabling Homeowners Around Patterson Lake & Jamestown Reservoir to Purchase Lots WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee, today announced that the U.S. Senate has passed his legislation to enable homeowners around Patterson Lake and the Jamestown Reservoir to purchase their lots. The ENR committee approved the legislation earlier this year. Specifically, the bills transfer lots at Patterson Lake (S. 440) to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department and land around the Jamestown Reservoir (S. 2074) to the Stutsman County Park Board. Homeowners will then have the opportunity to purchase their land from these local entities. Homeowners at Patterson Lake and around the Jamestown Reservoir should have the ability to purchase the land and lots they have invested in and developed, Hoeven said. We appreciate the assistance of the homeowner associations and local, state and federal officials in Dickinson and Jamestown for working with us to help write and advance this legislation. We are committed to working with our colleagues in the House to pass these bills so they can be signed into law as soon as possible and provide homeowners with the much-deserved security of owning the properties they live on. Patterson Lake Legislation Hoeven's Patterson Lake legislation: Transfers 41 cabin lots, and additional recreation and wildlife management lands, to the Dickinson Parks and Recreation Department. It also transfers a parcel of land, currently being leased, to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. Jamestown Reservoir Legislation Hoeven's Jamestown Reservoir legislation: Permanently transfers federal lands around Jamestown Reservoir including 71 permitted exclusive use cabin lots, two campgrounds, a park and unpurchased lots to the Stutsman County Park Board and the North Dakota Game and Fish at no cost. Directs that proceeds exceeding the costs of preparing residential lots for sale be used for administrative costs and deferred maintenance of the dam. The BOR would continue to maintain responsibility over the reservoir and dam. Hoeven's Patterson Lake and Jamestown Reservoir bills follow his successful efforts to limit permit fee increasesfor permittees on Patterson Lake, the Jamestown Reservoir and Lake Tschida. The BOR had proposed to more than double the cost of fees and the senator's legislation limited the total fee increase to no more than 33 percent over 5 years. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-tells-lignite-energy-conference-the-war-on-coal-is-over,CRAMER TELLS LIGNITE ENERGY CONFERENCE THE WAR ON COAL IS OVER,2018-10-04,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"BISMARCK, N.D. Congressman Kevin Cramer told national energy leaders the war on coal is over in remarks at yesterday's Lignite Energy Council Fall Conference in Bismarck. Rolling out a 24-foot long list of anti-coal regulations imposed on the industry in the eight years of the Obama Administration, Cramer said, It is clear President Obama wanted to put you out of business. Fortunately, on January 2017 the war on coal finally ended. During those years, Cramer praised the work of those in the coal industry and the coalitions and alliances they built with other like-minded lawmakers. We fought back because we understood the value of low rates, good-paying jobs and the global competitiveness of low-cost electricity. He cited the Stream Protection Rule as an example of an overreaching regulation he fought against in Congress. In February 2017, the House and Senate passed its repeal using the Congressional Review Act, which President Trump signed. Cramer said President Trump has fulfilled his campaign promise by rolling back 22 existing regulations for every new one issued. In Congress we continue to work on other important legislation to the energy industry. This includes fixing the 45Q tax credit to work for enhanced oil and gas recovery, extending the refined coal tax credit and shaping a resiliency plan that recognizes the value of having electricity 24 hours-a-day seven days a week. He spoke about the importance of the Senate confirming Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.Those who oppose him include the radical left who know of his opinions on the overreach of environmental regulations, Cramer said. Every environmental opinion Judge Kavanaugh has issued in the federal court system has been on our side, supporting the energy industry. His environmental opinions have been so good they have been used in rulings issued by the Supreme Court. And because of this support for the energy industry, I am confident he will receive two votes for confirmation by North Dakota's senators. Members of the Lignite Energy Council, which is based in Bismarck, include mining companies, major users that use lignite to generate electricity, synthetic natural gas and other valuable byproducts, and businesses that provide goods and services to the lignite industry. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-announces-public-schedule-20,CRAMER ANNOUNCES PUBLIC SCHEDULE,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer announced his public schedule for Sept. 29 Oct. 4. All times are local. Saturday, September 29 Speak at ND Department of Transportation and Northern Plains UAS Test Site UAS Integrated Pilot Program Event *Open Press 11:00 AM Fargo Air Museum 1609 19th Ave N Fargo, ND Tuesday, October 2 American Farm Bureau Federation Friend of Farm Bureau Award Presentation *Open Press 10:00 AM North Dakota Farm Bureau 4900 Ottawa St Bismarck, ND Speak at Morton County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting *Open Press 6:00 PM Moose Lodge 111 11th Ave NE Mandan, ND Wednesday, October 3 Talk Radio Town Hall with Scott Hennen 550 KFYR AM 1100 WZFG AM 1090 KTGO AM 1460 KLTC AM 9:05 AM Listen Link Speak at Lignite Energy Council Fall Conference *Open Press 12:00 PM Bismarck Event Center 315 S 5th St Bismarck, ND Talk Radio Town Hall with Rob Port 970 WDAY AM 1:30 PM Listen Link Thursday, October 4 Talk Radio Town Hall with Jarrod Thomas 1310 KNOX AM 10:05 AM Listen Link Talk Radio Town Hall with Rick Jensen KHND 1470 AM 10:40 AM Listen Link ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-receives-friend-of-farm-bureau-award,CRAMER RECEIVES FRIEND OF FARM BUREAU AWARD,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"BISMARCK, N.D. Congressman Kevin Cramer was presented the North Dakota American Farm Bureau (NDFB) Friend of the Farm Bureau award yesterday in Bismarck. The award is given to members of Congress who have supported Farm Bureau's positions on key policy issues. The Farm Bureau has been an excellent friend and advisor to me in Congress, said Cramer. I appreciate the opportunity I have to represent North Dakota's rich agriculture industry in Washington. I will continue to support policies that work for our farmers and ranchers and make North Dakota's voice heard. NDFB President Daryl Lies said of the award, Congressman Cramer has proven to be the leader on regulatory reform and agency accountability; allowing farmers and ranchers to pursue freedom, opportunity and self-reliance on their farms and ranches. NDFB values Congressman Cramer's dedication to providing producers with the opportunity to do what they do best take care of the land, their animals and provide nutritious and sustainable food. Cramer continues to be a voice for North Dakota's priorities as a member of the Farm Bill Conference. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/congress-passes-comprehensive-opioid-abuse-legislation-with-provisions-hoeven-advanced-to-prevent-sale-and-shipment-of-illicit-synthetic-drugs,Congress Passes Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Legislation with Provisions Hoeven Advanced to Prevent Sale & Shipment of Illicit Synthetic Drugs,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.03.18 Congress Passes Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Legislation with Provisions Hoeven Advanced to Prevent Sale & Shipment of Illicit Synthetic Drugs Legislation Complements Senator's Efforts in Appropriations Committee to Support Prevention, Treatment, Recovery and Law Enforcement Efforts WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today joined the Senate in passing bipartisan, comprehensive legislation to address all aspects of the opioid abuse crisis. The bill, which was previously passed under the title the Opioid Crisis Response Act, includes provisions the senator cosponsored to prevent the sale and shipment of illicit synthetic drugs like fentanyl. The legislation has now been approved by both chambers of Congress and will go to the president to be signed into law. This legislation will bolster efforts across the board to combat opioid abuse, said Hoeven. Passing this legislation will empower health care providers, first responders and law enforcement, providing them with additional tools to fend off the opioid abuse epidemic, which is impacting families and communities across our nation. This bill, which contains legislation I supported and helped include to prevent the sale and shipment of dangerous drugs like fentanyl, as well as the funding we've secured through the Appropriations Committee, will advance important prevention, treatment, recovery and law enforcement efforts. Hoeven worked to include language in this legislation that aligns with the goals of his Illegal Synthetic Drug Safety Act, which closes a loophole that enables bad actors to circumvent the law to sell and distribute illicit synthetic variations of drugs, like the powerful drug fentanyl, by labeling the products as not for human consumption. The language derives from the Synthetic Abuse and Labeling of Toxic Substances (SALTS) Act, of which Hoeven is a cosponsor, and which was included in the bill passed today. The senator has also cosponsored the Synthetic Trafficking and Overdose Prevention (STOP) Act, which is included in this legislation. This provision requires shipments from foreign countries sent through the U.S. Postal Service to provide electronic data. This will empower Customs and Border Protection to better target potential illegal substances like fentanyl and prevent it from being shipped into the country. Additional highlights of the legislation include: Reauthorizing state grants authorized in the 21st Century Cures Act, with a five percent set-aside for tribes. Reauthorizing the following programs through 2023: the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Program, the Department of Justice Drug Court Program and the Drug Free Communities Program. Funding training for staff at Community Health Center and Rural Health Clinic on dispensing medications for treatment of an opioid use disorder. Increasing flexibility for the National Institutes of Health to research non-addictive pain medication. Providing treatment and recovery support services for individuals with a substance use disorder. Allowing for 6-year loan repayment agreements with substance use disorder treatment professionals that work in mental health professional shortage areas or counties that have been hardest hit by drug overdose. Increasing access to medication-assisted treatment. Today's legislation builds on Hoeven's work as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee to provide strong funding to support opioid abuse prevention, treatment and recovery programs at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Further, the fiscal year 2019 funding legislation directs the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to prioritize efforts to combat opioid abuse in rural communities. This is similar to a provision Hoeven sponsored and included in the Senate's farm bill for the Rural Health and Safety Education Competitive Grant program. Additionally, as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, the senator secured a provision in the recently-passed Agriculture-FDA funding bill to interdict illicit substances, such as fentanyl, at international mailing facilities and support rural telemedicine grants to help address opioid abuse. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-congress-passes-faa-reauthorization-invests-in-nations-airports-and-extends-uas-test-sites-for-five-years,"Hoeven: Congress Passes FAA Reauthorization, Invests in Nations Airports & Extends UAS Test Sites for Five Years",2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.03.18 Hoeven: Congress Passes FAA Reauthorization, Invests in Nation's Airports & Extends UAS Test Sites for Five Years Legislation Includes Measures Hoeven Advanced to Address Potential UAS Threats & Spectrum Use, Develop Aircraft Maintenance Workforce WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today joined the Senate in passing a conferenced reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The legislation supports important investments in the nation's aviation infrastructure, such as the relocation of Williston's airport and other airport updates throughout the state. Further, Hoeven worked to ensure the legislation addresses issues that are critical to the safe integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into the national airspace (NAS), including: UAS Test Site Extension extending authorization through 2023 for the UAS test sites, including the Northern Plains UAS Test Site in North Dakota. The test sites were originally authorized by Hoeven-sponsored legislation signed into law in 2012. UAS Spectrum Use a Hoeven-authored measure directing the FAA, the National Telecommunication and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to identify the spectrum frequencies that would best enhance the safe integration of UAS into the national airspace (NAS). Preventing Emerging Threats Act of 2018 legislation that Hoeven helped introduce to protect important facilities from security risks posed by unmanned aircraft, while also directing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct research and test technology to address emerging threats and the potential misuse of UAS. We worked hard to ensure this legislation provides certainty for North Dakota's UAS industry by extending our test site's authorization for five years and helping clarify the spectrum UAS may use, Hoeven said. Further, the bill includes our legislation to bolster the development of counter-UAS capabilities, which is a major step in safely integrating unmanned aircraft into the NAS. We've continued to stress to administration officials, including during the recent visits of the Homeland Security and Air Force secretaries, that North Dakota is uniquely positioned to develop this technology. We will continue to advance this and other priorities to build our leadership in this dynamic and growing sector. Bolstering North Dakota's UAS Leadership The legislation passed today complements Hoeven's ongoing work to advance North Dakota's leadership in the UAS sector. Last month, the senatorhosted U.S. Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson in the state for the first flight of an unmanned aircraft that goes both beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) of the operator and without a chase plane. Further, Hoeven brought DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen to Grand Sky to see the state's UAS industry firsthand. Hoeven arranged the visits to advocate for the use of the state's UAS expertise to improve national security and promote the following priorities: Advancing the safe integration of unmanned aircraft into the NAS. Earlier this year, Hoeven joined Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao to announce that North Dakota wasselectedas one of ten sites to participate in the FAA's UAS integration pilot program. Developing counter-UAS technologies. In addition to the legislation passed today, Hoeven has included $13 million for counter-UAS technologies in Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 funding legislation, while also directing DHS to report on its funding needs in this area for the next five years. Allowing both the National Guard and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) touse private contractors, like those at Grand Sky, to train their UAS pilots. Hoeven's National Guard measure wassigned into lawlast year, and his CBP provision is included in FY2019 funding legislation. Maintaining the Global Hawk UAS mission. As a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, the senator secured $100 million in the FY2019 funding legislation to provide for the purchase of an additional Global Hawk aircraft to carry the Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) payload in Grand Forks. Investing in North Dakota's Airports Hoeven also worked to ensure the FAA reauthorization bill includes strong support for airports and aviation operations in North Dakota. The senator said that maintaining safe and reliable airport infrastructure is an essential part of supporting the state's continued economic growth. Accordingly, the legislation: Authorizes stable funding for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which supports planning and development for airports of all sizes. Directs the FAA to prioritize cold weather states when reviewing and provisioning funding for construction projects. Reauthorizes the Essential Air Service (EAS) and Small Community Air Service Development programs. Supports workforce development initiatives for aircraft maintenance workers, language which Hoeven cosponsored. Improves airline passenger protections. Directs FAA to set minimum leg room, width and length requirements for passenger seats in commercial flights. Prohibits involuntary bumping of passengers who have already boarded, and requires clarification of regulations regarding compensation for bumped passengers. Sets new requirements for airlines to promptly return fees for services, such as seat assignments or early boarding, purchased but not received. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-helps-advance-legislation-he-cosponsored-to-address-national-park-service-maintenance-backlog,Hoeven Helps Advance Legislation He Cosponsored to Address National Park Service Maintenance Backlog,2018-10-03,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.03.18 Hoeven Helps Advance Legislation He Cosponsored to Address National Park Service Maintenance Backlog Bill Would Help Resolve Estimated $52 Million in Deferred Maintenance at NPS Facilities in North Dakota WASHINGTON At a meeting of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee this week, Senator John Hoeven helped advance the Restore Our Parks Act, bipartisan legislation he cosponsored to address the maintenance backlog at the National Park Service (NPS). This includes an estimated $52 million for deferred maintenance in North Dakota. Our state's parks help visitors to, and residents of, North Dakota experience our tremendous landscapes and rich heritage of outdoor recreation, said Hoeven. Our legislation uses existing federal revenues to help ensure NPS facilities can continue to deliver quality services and educate the public about the history of our state and lands. The legislation would use 50 percent of the excess revenues from energy development on federal lands to establish a NPS Legacy Restoration Fund. These revenues are already owed to the federal government, would require no new taxes and would not impact revenues that go to the states for mineral and energy development on federal lands. Further, the bill would authorize the NPS Director and Interior Secretary to accept cash or in-kind donations to the restoration fund to encourage relevant public-private partnerships. An expected $6.5 billion would accrue to the fund over a five-year period. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-congratulates-schools-in-buxton-west-fargo-and-abercrombie-on-being-designated-national-blue-ribbon-schools,"Hoeven Congratulates Schools In Buxton, West Fargo & Abercrombie On Being Designated National Blue Ribbon Schools",2018-10-02,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.02.18 Hoeven Congratulates Schools In Buxton, West Fargo & Abercrombie On Being Designated National Blue Ribbon Schools WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today congratulated three North Dakota schools designated by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) as 2018 National Blue Ribbon Schools: Central Valley School in Buxton, Freedom Elementary in West Fargo and Richland Elementary in Abercrombie. Schools receive the designation for making significant improvements toward closing achievement gaps or for overall academic excellence, with the North Dakota schools being recognized as exemplary high performing schools. To be designated a National Blue Ribbon School is an extraordinary accomplishment and highlights the hard work and dedication of teachers and school administrators to provide students a superior education and learning experience, said Hoeven. We congratulate Central Valley School, Freedom Elementary and Richland Elementary for being recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools. The National Blue Ribbon Program was established in 1982 to recognize the work of the nation's top schools.Since the program's founding, 40 North Dakota schools have been designated as blue ribbon schools, with some being designated more than once. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-va-selects-triwest-as-third-party-administrator-for-veterans-choice-program-must-continue-success-of-veterans-care-coordination-initiative,"Hoeven: VA Selects TriWest as Third Party Administrator for Veterans Choice Program, Must Continue Success of Veterans Care Coordination Initiative",2018-10-02,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.02.18 Hoeven: VA Selects TriWest as Third Party Administrator for Veterans Choice Program, Must Continue Success of Veterans Care Coordination Initiative Senator Working to Ensure Smooth Implementation of VA MISSION Act, Next Phase of Veterans Choice Program WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, today issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) reached an agreement with TriWest to serve as the nationwide third party administrator for the Veterans Choice Program. Earlier this year, Hoeven announced that the VA would end its contract with Health Net and was soliciting a new administrator for the program. As we work to combine the VA's community care programs and implement the next phase of the Veterans Choice Program, it is vital that we continue the success of our Veterans Care Coordination initiative, ensure veterans receive the best service possible and provide a smooth transition, said Hoeven. We welcome the VA's new contract with TriWest and hope they will prevent unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles for our veterans as they seek health care through their local providers. We will continue our efforts to ensure the VA MISSION Act is implemented in an effective and timely manner to help deliver the best possible health care and long-term care services closer to their homes and loved ones. Today's announcement dovetails with Hoeven's continued efforts to ensure the smooth implementation of the VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks (MISSION) Act. To this end, the senator is working with local stakeholders and veterans in North Dakota as well as administration officials, including recently-confirmed VA Secretary Robert Wilkie, Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma, to ensure the law achieves the intent of Congress and provides veterans with better access to health care closer to home. This includes the provisions Hoeven secured in the VA MISSION Act that allow the VA to enter into provider agreements with qualified long-term care facilities. Hoeven's measure will provide relief from expensive federal contracting requirements and enable more long-term care providers to accept veteran patients. This follows Hoeven's work to establish the Veterans Care Coordination initiative at the Fargo VA Health Center in 2016. The initiative allowed veterans seeking community care to coordinate all of their health care through the Fargo VA rather than Health Net. The initiative also placed a Health Net representative at the Fargo VA to improve provider reimbursements and reduce denial of veterans' claims. Further, Hoeven secured a provision in the Fiscal Year 2019 funding legislation that stresses the importance ofprompt payment and ensuring timely reimbursementfor non-VA providers. The measure also directs the VA to facilitate the completion of any outstanding claims for payment. -###- Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cramer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cramer-statement-on-finalization-of-nafta-agreement,CRAMER STATEMENT ON FINALIZATION OF NAFTA AGREEMENT,2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,cramer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Date: September 30, 2018 Download:Audio WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Kevin Cramer released the following statement after agreement was reached between the United States, Canada and Mexico on a new North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). I congratulate President Trump, Ambassador Lightizer and the entire negotiating team on this major victory for our country. This is a good day for the U.S. and a special day for North Dakota. Living next door to two Canadian Provinces, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, North Dakota feels a special bond to our neighbor and we are grateful to our President and to Canada's leaders for coming to this deal to mutually benefit our people. We owe a special debt of gratitude to our Mexican partners in this endeavor for joining us in building the foundation for this trilateral trade deal. I look forward to reviewing the text of the agreement in the near future and working with my colleagues to ensure its passage by Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-agenda-for-2018-great-plains-and-empower-nd-energy-conference,Hoeven Announces Agenda for 2018 Great Plains & EmPower ND Energy Conference,2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.01.18 Hoeven Announces Agenda for 2018 Great Plains & EmPower ND Energy Conference Keynote Speakers Include Deputy Energy Secretary and Chief Economist for American Petroleum Institute BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today announced the agenda for this year's Great Plains and EmPower ND Energy Conference, which is taking place on Monday, October 8, at the National Energy Center of Excellence at Bismarck State College. The conference is hosted by North Dakota's congressional delegation and governor, Bismarck State College, Great Plains Energy Corridor, KLJ and the North Dakota Department of Commerce. North Dakota is an energy powerhouse and is playing an ever-increasing role in our nation's energy security, Hoeven said. As the number two oil-producing state, we have helped secure our country's position as the top crude oil producer in the world. That's due to the hard work and innovation of our energy industry as well as our efforts to create a pro-growth business climate. That's what our annual Empower ND Conference is all about outlining the latest technology and practices in the energy sector and advancing the legal, tax and regulatory reforms that support an all-of-the-above approach to energy development. The congressional delegation and Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford will kick off the event with a roundtable on efforts to encourage innovation and strengthen the development of all of the state and nation's energy resources. Immediately following, they will hold a press conference with the keynote speakers, including Deputy Secretary Dan Brouillette from the U.S. Department of Energy and Dean Foreman, the Chief Economist for the American Petroleum Institute. The full agenda below is subject to change: 7:45 am Registration and Continental Breakfast 8:05 am Welcoming Remarks Dr. Larry C. Skogen, President, Bismarck State College 8:10 am All of the Above: The Big Picture in State and National Energy Policy U.S. Senator John Hoeven U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp U.S. Congressman Kevin Cramer North Dakota Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford Moderator: Jason Bohrer, President and CEO, Lignite Energy Council The energy industry is facing challenges, but North Dakota leads the way in demonstrating what is needed to create a strong, affordable and diverse energy mix. Hear from the state's leaders on what they see as a critical need in shaping the state's energy future and get the chance to text in your questions during this live Q&A discussion. 9:30 am Networking Break 9:40 am Press Conference National Energy Center of Excellence Room #432 Congressional Delegation & Lt. Governor Keynote Speakers from Department of Energy & American Petroleum Institute 9:50 am Perspectives from U.S. Department of Energy Dan Brouillette, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy Introduced by Josh DeMorrett, Director of Stakeholder Relations, Great Plains Business Unit, ConocoPhillips Hear from a top official of the U.S. Department of Energy on what key drivers will be shaping national energy policy over the next few years. 10:10 am Discussion on National Energy Policy Led by Dave Thompson, Prairie Public How has national energy policy influenced planning for energy expansion and development? What impacts will the reversal of the Clean Power Plan have on generation in North Dakota? Listen to a fireside chat with the Deputy Energy Secretary to continue this discussion. 10:45 am Networking Break 11:00 am Global Markets, Advanced Technology and Energy Pricing for U.S. Oil Dean Foreman, Ph.D., Chief Economist, American Petroleum Institute Introduced by Ron Day, Government & Public Affairs Manager, Andeavor As U.S. oil markets surge, what sort of future should North Dakota be prepared for in petroleum? Learn how new technology innovations and the global energy market are impacting the state. 12:00 pm Lunch 1:00 pm Growth and Development of Renewable Generation John DiDonato, Vice President, NextEra Energy Resources State and federal policies are important drivers for growth in wind power and other sources of renewable generation. North Dakota has been called the Saudi Arabia of wind, with the capacity to produce more than one billion kilowatt hours of electrical energy. What factors influence demand for wind energy? Is the state poised to take advantage of growth in the renewable sector? 1:20 pm All of the Above Generation Infrastructure Stacey Dahl, Sr. Manager of External Affairs & Communications, Minnkota Power Betsy Engelking, Vice President Strategy, Geronimo Energy Moderator: Julie Fedorchak, Commissioner, N.D. Public Service Commission Regional experts weigh in on the biggest impacts to their industry now and potentially in the future by answering specific generation questions: 1. How is national policy affecting your ability to provide baseload power? 2. What state policy would you like to see changed to address needs? 3. What does the marketplace look like for your industry over the next 20 years? And 4. What policy changes would have the biggest impact on your existing operations? 2:30 pm Networking Break 2:45 pm Unique Opportunities of the Energy Industry Gary Zuroff, Public Works Director, City of Dickinson Dan Inman, V.P. & Chief Information Security Officer, Minnkota Power Ross Manson, Chief Innovation Officer, EideBailly Moderator: Shawn Kessel, Deputy Commissioner, N.D. Department of Commerce New technologies and innovations mean constant change in the energy industry. Which technologies or changes could most impact your utility? What are the biggest areas of opportunities in the future? Hear from a panel representing several of the biggest disruptors in traditional energy operations about what is on the horizon. 4:00 pm Wrap-up North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-us-reaching-deal-on-nafta-renegotiation,Hoeven Statement on U.S. Reaching Deal on NAFTA Renegotiation,2018-10-01,2018,2018-10,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"10.01.18 Hoeven Statement on U.S. Reaching Deal on NAFTA Renegotiation WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven released the following statement after the administration announced that it has reached a deal with Canada and Mexico on the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Throughout the negotiations, Hoeven met with the President and administration officials to press for better trade deals for the nation, particularly farmers and ranchers, as soon as possible. At meetings with the president this summer, the senator outlined the importance of the agreement with Mexico in bringing Canada to the table and getting the agreement by early fall. Free and fair trade will strongly benefit our economy, while also providing much-needed certainty for our agriculture producers and other exporters, said Hoeven. Throughout the negotiations, we've pressed the President and the administration to come to an agreement with both Mexico and Canada as soon as possible. We are pleased that the agreement eliminates the automatic downgrading of U.S wheat, an issue that we pressed repeatedly with the President and administration officials. We appreciate the administration's resolve in securing a better deal for American industry and welcome Canada's decision to join this agreement. Specifically, Hoeven worked to ensure that the agreement: Eliminates Canada's automatic downgrade of imported U.S. wheat to feed grade and ensures grading standards and services are non-discriminatory. Additionally, the agreement: Expands access to the Canadian market for U.S. poultry, eggs and dairy and eliminates Canada's Class 6 and 7 dairy program. Requires 75 percent of auto content to be produced in North America in order to be exempt from tariffs, up from 62.5 percent. Makes needed modernizations on intellectual property, digital trade and financial services. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z