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://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-putting-american-taxpayer-and-economy-first,PEARCE: PUTTING THE AMERICAN TAXPAYER AND ECONOMY FIRST,2017-12-29,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (December 29,2017)Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced its decision to rescind their hydraulic fracturing rule in an effort to reduce burdensome federal regulations that hinder energy development and economic growth: I applaud the BLM today for putting the American economy and taxpayer first by rescinding this unnecessary regulation. Many of these Obama-era environmental rules were duplicative in nature and made in order solely to cripple energy production on federal lands. This doesnt better preserve our environment, but cuts off sources of revenues for states like New Mexico who rely on the production and development of resources to support our teachers, infrastructure, and more. From the very beginning, federal courts declared that the BLM did not have the proper authority to regulate hydraulic fracturing on public lands. By rescinding the rule altogether, the BLM upholds the rule of law and moves the nation closer towards becoming less reliant on foreign energy production. With that, New Mexico can once again have the opportunity to become a leader in energy development. Background On June 21, 2016, the U.S. District Court of Wyoming issued a final rule blocking the hydraulic fracturing rule from being implemented, stating the BLM doesnt have proper authority to do so without congressional action. This decision by the BLM to publish a final rule rescinding the hydraulic fracturing rule follows Executive Order 13771 that requires agencies to reduce regulatory compliance costs. To view the announcement by BLM on the final rule, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/icymi-pearce-daca-bill-picks-local-support,ICYMI: PEARCE DACA BILL PICKS UP LOCAL SUPPORT,2017-12-28,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (December 11, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce introduced legislation earlier this month to provide certainty to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients. Rep. Pearces proposal has gained traction throughout local news outlets in New Mexico. Pearce DACA bill good faith compromise Las Cruces Sun News December 8, 2017 having a bill ready to go that was introduced by a Republican member may be the best hope to ensure that those who signed up for this program in good faith dont suddenly have the information they provided to the government used against them. We credit U.S. Rep. Steve Pearce for taking the initiative in introducing compromise legislation to deal with one of this areas most pressing legislative issue Click here to read the full article. Pearce proposes compromise on DACA recipients Albuquerque Journal December 1, 2017 Rep. Steve Pearce, a Republican who represents New Mexicos border with Mexico, filed legislation late Thursday that would allow the children of parents who came to the U.S. illegally a chance to remain in the country lawfully... The move represents a proposed compromise between Democrats and President Donald Trumps administration, which has announced it would end the Obama-era DACA program... An estimated 800,000 young peoples legal status is in limbo. Click here to read the full article. Editorial: Pearces Dreamers bill offers interim solution Albuquerque Journal December 8, 2017 Its a reasonable alternative to President Donald Trumps mandate that DACA expire on March 6. his proposal takes the pressure off those immigrants facing Trumps March 6 deadline. It also gives Congress time to craft solutions to the nations unmanageable immigration system As an interim solution to the numerous and vexing problems of immigration, Pearces bill has merit. Pearces bill has merit. But the real work lies ahead. Click here to read the full editorial. Pearce bill would protect DREAMers from deportation Las Cruces Sun News December 1, 2017 U.S. Rep. Steve Pearce has introduced legislation to provide protection from deportation for young immigrants who qualify under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program Pearce sent a letter to Speaker of the House Paul Ryan in September urging Congress to find a permanent solution for DACA recipients. The bills introduction Thursday leaves a little more than three months before the March 5 deadline when DACA is set to expire. Pearce's bill was introduced with the hope that his bill will be seen as a compromise between those who want to grant Dreamers full legal status, and those who just want to see the program ended. Click here to read the full article. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-trump-signing-historic-tax-plan-law,PEARCE STATEMENT ON TRUMP SIGNING HISTORIC TAX PLAN INTO LAW,2017-12-22,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 22, 2017)Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after President Trump signed the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act into law: For the first time in 31 years, our nations tax code is going to see a complete overhaul, putting more money back in the pockets of hard-working taxpayers. The nations complex and antiquated tax code has made it harder for families, when it should be working to help them. For a business, taxes can be the difference between keeping the doors open or closing up shop. By signing this bill into law today, we will see a more fair and simple tax code that creates jobs, raises wages, and reduces taxes across the board. This means you get to decide what to do with more of your heard-earned money. Background Major companies announced new investments moments after the tax reform bill was sent to the Presidents desk. AT&T said they plan on investing $1 billion in the U.S. next year, and a bonus of $1,000 to over 200,000 employees. Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg also praised the passing of the tax bill by Congress, announcing the company would take action to encourage innovation and growth by making a $300 million employee-related and charitable investment. The final version of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act includes: Lowers individual tax rates to 0%, 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37% Nearly doubles the standard deduction from $6,500 and $13,000 under current law to $12,000 and $24,000 for individuals and married couples, respectively Allows people to write off state and local taxes up to $10,000 Expands the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $2,000 Preserves the mortgage interest deduction up to $750,000 for first and second homes Lowers corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% to create a more competitive environment Expands medical expense deduction Maintains Earned Income Tax Credit Retains retirement savings options Maintains tax exempt status of graduate student tuition waivers Maintains tax exempt status of Private Activity Bonds for low-income housing Repeals Obamacare's individual mandate penalty tax Permits the responsible energy production on the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/icymi-companies-announce-new-investments-after-tax-reform-bill-passes-congress,ICYMI: COMPANIES ANNOUNCE NEW INVESTMENTS AFTER TAX REFORM BILL PASSES CONGRESS,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 20, 2017)Not long after the U.S. House of Representatives voted to send the tax reform bill onto the Presidents desk, AT&T announced they will invest $1 billion more in the United States in 2018, and will pay a special bonus of $1,000 to over 200,000 of their U.S. employees. AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson said in a statement: This tax reform will drive economic growth and create good-paying jobs. In fact, we will increase our U.S. investment and pay a special bonus to our U.S. employees."" Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg also praised the passing of the tax bill by Congress, announcing the company would take action to encourage innovation and growth by making a $300 million employee-related and charitable investment: ""For Boeing, the reforms enable us to better compete on the world stage and give us a stronger foundation for the investment in innovation, facilities and skills that will support our long-term growth. This is proof that tax reform will put confidence back into the nations economy. It will also drive growth that we havent seen in decades. With economic success comes more good-paying jobs for not only New Mexicans, but people across the nation. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/new-mexico-delegation-announces-disaster-declaration-help-pueblo-acoma-recover-october,New Mexico Delegation Announces Disaster Declaration To Help Pueblo Of Acoma Recover From October Storms,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 21, 2017) U.S. Representatives Steve Pearce, Ben Ray Lujn, and Michelle Lujan Grisham and Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced a major disaster declaration has been issued for the Pueblo of Acoma to provide federal aid for the severe storm and flooding that occurred between October 4 and October 6, 2017. The lawmakers sent a letter to the President earlier this month asking for prompt action on the Pueblo of Acomas request for help with hazard mitigation and to repair public infrastructure damaged by severe weather and flooding. The storm caused extreme damage to tribal infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and sewer lines. The piled-up debris and wreckage created treacherous driving conditions along 10 miles of roads and bridges, isolating parts of the Pueblo lands from the rest of the territory. This funding will provide relief for the Pueblo of Acoma as they recover from severe storms and flooding, which damaged crucial infrastructure like roads, bridges, and sewer lines, Udall said. I appreciate that the administration responded swiftly to the New Mexico delegations request for this urgently needed assistance. Ill keep working to ensure that the federal government honors its obligations to Tribes and works to protect the land, resources and livelihoods of Native communities like the Pueblo of Acoma."" The October storm had a severe impact on the everyday lives of the Acoma community. Im pleased our call for federal assistance was promptly answered to help the Pueblo recover and rebuild, Heinrich said. When disaster strikes in New Mexico, it requires this kind of full and coordinated approach to provide affected communities the support they need. In October, severe weather and flooding caused devastating damage to the Pueblo of Acoma. The government has a responsibility to assist in these recovery efforts for the future success of the Pueblo, Pearce said. I thank my colleagues in the New Mexico Delegation and the Administration for guaranteeing federal disaster assistance will go to these communities in need of help. The livelihoods of Native American communities in New Mexico, and across the nation, relies on continued access to resources, land, and infrastructure. This funding will enable the Pueblo of Acoma to begin the recovery process from the severe storms that impacted the community in October, Lujn said. I am pleased that our call for federal aid has been successful and grateful for the continued work of my colleagues to ensure Native American communities in New Mexico have the resources they need. I am encouraged to see the federal government uphold their responsibilities to assist the Pueblo of Acoma recover from the damage caused by severe floods and storms last fall, Lujan Grisham said. Close collaboration with tribal leadership and local stakeholders will be necessary to ensure that affected communities can quickly repair damaged roads, bridges and other infrastructure. The disaster declaration provides federal funding to the Pueblo of Acoma and to certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms and flooding. According to Pueblo of Acoma Governor Kurt Rileys letter requesting the declaration, damages resulting from the storm has currently been assessed at $2 million. ### Contacts: Whitney Potter (Heinrich) 202.228.1578 /Jennifer Talhelm (Udall) 202.228.6870 /Keeley Christensen (Pearce) 202.225.2365 / Joe Shoemaker (Lujn) 202.225.6190 / Nathan Schelble (Lujan Grisham) 202.225.6316",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-we-cannot-lose-sight-bigger-picture,PEARCE: WE CANNOT LOSE SIGHT OF THE BIGGER PICTURE,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 21, 2017)Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after voting to pass the continuing resolution to fund the government through January 19, 2018: We have a responsibility in Congress to fund the government, and I could not stand by while Washington votes to shut down operations just one day after passing historic legislation that will revitalize our nations economy. I am disappointed that as a government, we failed to complete a core responsibility. It is reckless to continue to pass short-term, patchwork spending bills that do little to provide certainty for our government agencies, nations defense, and businesses. This bill, however, contained important funding for vital programs that affect the day-to-day lives many people in New Mexico, and across the nation. By passing this extension today, Congress waives the pay-as-you-go law to prevent a sequester from taking place, ensuring the economy-boosting tax plan will be able to benefit families and businesses across the nation. We are already seeing major support for this tax plan come in from companies announcing new investments in the coming year along with pay raises for U.S. employees. This tax plan, once signed into law, has the ability and strength to significantly benefit New Mexican families, help grow and expand small business, and revitalize our nations manufacturing industries. Overall, we cannot lose sight of the bigger picture people, families, and local job creators in New Mexico will see greater opportunities to keep their hard-earned money once the tax reform gets signed into law. For the first time in 31 years, Congress has delivered necessary tax relief to middle-income people and families who are tired of working hard and seeing little in return. This funding bill, while far from perfect, will ensure that programs like the Childrens Health Insurance Program will continue to receive the crucial funding they need for people throughout the nation. In the coming weeks, I will continue to work hard with my colleagues to push for the priorities that I was sent here to support for the people of New Mexico. Background The U.S. House of Representatives adopted the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1370 - Further Continuing Resolution. This provides funding of the government through January 19, 2018. It also reauthorizes vital programs like the Children Health Insurance Program (CHIP) through March 31, 2018, along with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) and the Flood Insurance Program through January 19, 2018. This legislation also includes $2.1 billion to the VA CHOICE Program. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-congratulates-joel-carson-new-mexico-nomination-us-court-appeals,PEARCE CONGRATULATES JOEL CARSON OF NEW MEXICO ON NOMINATION TO U.S. COURT OF APPEALS,2017-12-20,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"PEARCE CONGRATULATES JOEL CARSON OF NEW MEXICO ON NOMINATION TO U.S. COURT OF APPEALS Dec 20, 2017 Washington, D.C. (December 20, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after President Trump nominated Joel M. Carson III of New Mexico to serve as Circuit Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit: I congratulate Joel Carson of New Mexico on being nominated to serve as a Circuit Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. I am confident that Joel will serve in this highly respected position with honor and integrity. I appreciate my colleagues, Senator Heinrich and Senate Udall, working with me to identify and recommend qualified candidates with knowledge of New Mexico for this Presidentially appointed position. I encourage my colleagues in the Senate to swiftly work to confirm Joel. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-pass-historic-tax-reform,PEARCE VOTES TO PASS HISTORIC TAX REFORM,2017-12-20,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 19, 2017)The U.S. House of Representatives today voted to pass the House and Senate Conference Committee final report on the compromised version of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act: Today, the House passed historic legislation to completely overhaul our nations tax code for the first time in 30 years. Passage of this bill moves us one step closer to helping lower- and middle-class families in New Mexico keep more money in their pockets. This will allow New Mexicans to move closer to their goals of saving for retirement, going to school, or simply having enough money to afford emergencies. Additionally, this tax overhaul will reduce taxes on corporate and small businesses, which will encourage more job creation and put confidence back in our economy, stated Rep. Pearce. Raising wages, reducing taxes, and creating a more fair and simple tax code this is what will help Americans succeed. I look forward to seeing this final version of the tax plan be swiftly passed by the Senate and signed into law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-native-american-housing-bill-passes-committee,PEARCE NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING BILL PASSES COMMITTEE,2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 13, 2017) The House Committee on Financial Services held a legislative markup that debated and passed H.R. 3864, the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA), sponsored by Congressman Steve Pearce: “This legislation provides Native American tribes greater autonomy and authority over their federal affordable housing funds, which is a driving force for increased access to safe and affordable housing on tribal lands. From increased access to quality housing, to lease-to-own programs aimed at providing rural tribes with the resources and flexibility to develop modern communities, NAHASDA empowers tribes to meet the unique housing challenges of each community. Prosperity and opportunity have eluded Native American families on tribal lands for too long. The reforms I’ve laid out in this legislation will reduce inefficiencies within government spending, and ultimately, support some of the most vulnerable communities throughout New Mexico and our country. I’m pleased to see this legislation pass through Committee today, moving one step closer to providing greater prosperity and opportunity for Native American families on tribal lands.” Watch Rep. Pearce open debate on H.R. 3864 in Financial Services Committee here. Background In September 2017, Rep. Pearce introduced H.R. 3864, the reauthorization of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA), to increase access to safe and affordable housing for Native Americans across the nation. This 5-year reauthorization bill is a model in how the federal government can, by increasing stakeholder participation, assist millions in creating better living conditions and housing opportunities for low-income families. NAHASDA was first signed into law in 1996 to make housing assistance directly available to tribes through the Indian Housing Block Grant program. The program works to increase and strengthen the tribal authority and autonomy in housing development, construction, and management. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/national-defense-authorization-act-signed-law,NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT SIGNED INTO LAW,2017-12-12,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 12, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after President Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2018 into law: “The NDAA focuses on modernizing our military forces so our nation is ready to take on tomorrow’s threats.  To do so, it prioritizes vital missions ongoing at New Mexico’s labs and bases, like White Sands Missile Range that tests next-generation missile defense systems required to combat the growing threats around the world.  By authorizing equipment, training, and resources our nation’s military relies upon to complete its mission, we are reaffirming the nation’s commitment to ensuring our troops will not face the enemy unprepared.  Along with these significant reforms and rebuilding of our military, the NDAA includes a military pay raise, which is the largest raise the military has seen in eight years. America’s service members, veterans, and their families have sacrificed greatly to defend our freedoms and preserve democracy.  We must never revert to a place where we do not stand up and show our thanks for the sacrifices service members make so that we can live free and safe.  With this bill, our military will have resources to combat the threats of today, while preparing for what the future holds.  I’m pleased to see this legislation signed into law, and will continue being steadfast in my commitment to stand by the brave men and women who answer the call of duty.” Background In November 2017, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 2810, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018, sending the bill to the President’s desk. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-calls-fbi-release-details-expand-preventative-efforts,"PEARCE CALLS ON FBI TO RELEASE DETAILS, EXPAND PREVENTATIVE EFFORTS",2017-12-11,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"PEARCE CALLS ON FBI TO RELEASE DETAILS, EXPAND PREVENTATIVE EFFORTS Dec 11, 2017 Washington, D.C. (December 8, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after learning some details about the shooter in yesterdays of the tragic event that took place at Aztec High School in Aztec, New Mexico: “My heart hurts immensely for not only the families of the students who were taken too early from this earth, but for all students and community members affected by yesterday’s senseless and tragic shooting. Many have asked, what can be done to stop situations like this. Now, news reports state the shooter had been previously noticed by the FBI. We need to know what can be done in situations like this, so if it’s not the FBI’s responsibility then some other authority is tasked with trying to help. Many have discussed that mental health is often a factor in these crimes. Let’s put credible and helpful policies in place to deal with this. Therefore, I call on the FBI to release all details on the shooter as soon as possible understanding there is an active investigation going on, so we can examine further what changes need to be made so individuals in need of help can be identified and assisted.” According to press reports, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) stated they opened an investigation into Atchison back in 2016 for comments he made online. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-commends-doj-action-review-criminal-referrals,PEARCE COMMENDS DOJ ACTION TO REVIEW CRIMINAL REFERRALS,2017-12-11,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (December 11, 2017) The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed that the Criminal Investigative Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) will review the two criminal referrals sent to the New Mexico Attorney General by the U.S. House Select Investigative Panel on Infant Lives regarding violations made by the University of New Mexico (UNM) and the Southwestern Women’s Options (SWWO). “I’ve worked tirelessly with New Mexico officials and Members in Congress to ensure the rights and liberties of women and the unborn are protected. After violations were unearthed between the University of New Mexico Health Center and the Southwestern Women’s Options, the New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas took no action to hold those accountable. The state of New Mexico must stand for the rule of law. I applaud the action taken by the U.S. DOJ to take up not only the criminal referrals that were sent to New Mexico, but all fifteen criminal referrals that were sent out but not acted upon at the conclusion of the Select Panel’s investigation. These infant lives are precious, and it is completely disgraceful and negligent to sit back while the rights of unborn lives are disregarded,” stated Rep. Steve Pearce. ""We are thankful that the findings from our work with the Select Panel on Infant Lives are now being investigated by the Department of Justice [before the statute of limitations runs out],"" stated Elisa Martinez, Executive Director of New Mexico Alliance for Life. ""These are serious violations of the [federal and state] law where baby body parts were treated like commodities, women were deceived for years and nobody has held the abortion industry accountable, including Attorney General Hector Balderas. It's time for women, babies, and taxpayers to receive some justice and anyone found in violation of the law to be held accountable, whether they are abortionists, researchers or university officials, no one is above the law."" “I thank Congressman Pearce along with the Select Panel on Infant Lives for uncovering violations against unborn infants and mothers, and tirelessly fighting to hold those responsible for the wrongdoings accountable. This action is long-overdue; however, I’m pleased to see the U.S. Attorney General take action against these heinous acts. We must protect the unborn children of New Mexico,” stated Pastor Brian Alarid, Co-Chairman, New Mexico Prays. “I applaud Attorney General Sessions and the Department of Justice for taking the atrocious practices between Southwestern Women’s Organization and University of New Mexico Health Center seriously. The House of Representative’s Select Panel on Infant Lives made two criminal referrals for New Mexico Attorney General (AG) Hector Balderas to pursue. It is reprehensible that New Mexico AG Balderas has sat back and watched over 100 cases’ statute of limitation expire. We must stand united and safeguard the well-being of the women and children of New Mexico,” stated State Representative Rod Montoya, New Mexico State House Republican Whip.      “I cannot thank Congressman Pearce enough for bringing the attention of the DOJ to all the issues surrounding the extreme preborn child killing in New Mexico. It has been proven that SWWO has been doing tax payer funded abortions well into the 3rd trimester and has been conspiring with the University of New Mexico in numerous illegal activities. Hopefully this will be the end of the decade long conspiracy of silence and complicity in NM that has caused our state to be known as the late term abortion capital of the U.S.,” stated Father Stephen Imbarrato, Priests for Life. ""Abortion Free New Mexico would like to thank Congressman Steve Pearce for bringing this important matter to the attention of the U.S. Attorney General's office. We are pleased that the Department of Justice is taking this matter seriously and referring it to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It has been over two years since we filed an initial complaint with the New Mexico Attorney General's office and during this time at least one woman has died from abortion related complications sustained at Southwestern Women's Options late term abortion facility in Albuquerque, NM. It is our hope that the FBI will investigate in a timely manner and that their investigation leads to a Department of Justice Federal prosecution,” stated Tara Shaver, Spokeswoman for Abortion Free New Mexico. Background On April 19, 2017, Congressman Steve Pearce (NM-02) attended a press conference with Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn (TN-07), Chairwoman of the House Select Investigative Panel on Infant Lives, New Mexico State Legislators and pro-life leaders in New Mexico on the House Select Panel’s findings of ethical and legal violations at UNM and SWWO.  Of the 15 criminal referrals filed by the Select Panel, 2 were sent to the New Mexico Attorney General's Office. The final report released by the House Select Investigative Panel on Infant Lives can be found here. On April 20, 2017, New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas stated his office was taking further action to consider the legal violations uncovered at the University of New Mexico, yet no action was taken. On September 7, 2017, Rep. Pearce sent a letter to the United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions to request an investigation into the wrongdoings between the University of New Mexico Health Service Center (UNMHSC) and Southwestern Women’s Options (SWWO). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-congratulates-congressional-app-challenge-winner,PEARCE CONGRATULATES CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE WINNER,2017-12-08,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 8, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today announced that Jenna McClellan of Centennial High School in Las Cruces, New Mexico is the winner of the 2017 Congressional App Challenge for the Second Congressional District of New Mexico: “I congratulate Jenna on being our winner of this year’s Congressional App Challenge. This competition is a wonderful way to empower the youth in our communities to engage in STEM education. New Mexico is home to some of the nation’s premier STEM research and development facilities. As a State, we must continue to do all we can to assist and encourage the next generation to continue to lead in these fields.” Background Jenna McClellan created a mobile app called ‘The Allergen Cookbook.’ The Allergen Cookbook is designed to simplify the cooking process of those inflicted with food allergies by allowing them to store and search recipes by allergen. Nearly thirteen million Americans are hindered by a food allergy, and this app seeks to make food allergies more manageable for individuals. Learn more about Jenna’s app here. The 2017 Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition to encourage students to get involved in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activities. Students will compete by creating and exhibiting a software application, or “app,” for mobile, tablet or computer devices. All students K-12 in New Mexico's Second Congressional District are encouraged to participate, even if they've never coded before. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-udall-heinrich-announce-alamogordo-veterans-may-access-specialized-care-el-paso,"Pearce, Udall, Heinrich Announce Alamogordo Veterans May Access Specialized Care at El Paso VA Medical Center",2017-12-08,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representative Steve Pearce, and Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced the Department of Veterans Affairs will make specialized medical care more accessible for veterans in Alamogordo by giving them the option to seek care either at the El Paso VA Medical Center or the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center in Albuquerque for advanced care. Until now, veterans in Alamogordo needing specialized care have been referred to the Albuquerque VA hospital, which is three and a half hours away, rather than the El Paso VA Medical Center, which is just an hour and a half drive. Udall, Heinrich, and Pearce urged VA Secretary Shulkin to make the administrative changes after hearing from a number of veterans who said they were delaying or going without specialized care because the drive to Albuquerque was too difficult. Several members of the N.M. legislature followed up with another letter this month supporting the delegation’s request. This week, Shulkin responded that the VA would work to honor the veterans’ preferences.  ""This is welcome news that will give veterans in Alamogordo the option to receive care much closer to home. Our veterans risk their lives to defend our freedom, and they deserve the absolute best care we can provide when they return home, but for many of our veterans in Alamogordo, their specialized care was just too far away,"" Udall said. ""This is a small change that will provide big relief for our veteran community in Alamogordo. We made a solemn promise to our veterans to ensure they get the best care possible, and I will continue working with the VA to ensure that New Mexico's veterans are getting the care and benefits they have earned."" “This is welcome news that will ensure veterans in southern New Mexico have the flexibility and choice they need to access health care closer to home instead of having to drive all the way to the VA in Albuquerque,” said Heinrich. “Our ability to maintain the strongest and most dedicated military in the world depends on our nation's ability to keep its promises to provide our veterans the best care, benefits, and opportunities they have earned. I will continue fighting to increase timely access to health care services for our veterans in each and every New Mexico community.” “Veterans in rural communities throughout New Mexico face many unique challenges to receiving the quality and timely care they deserve. Often, they travel an entire day just to learn their appointments were either cancelled or rescheduled,"" said Pearce. ""I made a commitment to honor our veterans in all aspects of their service and care. I was pleased to join my colleagues in the Senate to ensure veterans across New Mexico have access to VA Medical Centers that are at a more convenient location. I appreciate the VA working with us in Congress to break down the barriers that impede rural veterans from receiving the care they need after stepping up to serve our nation.” The Albuquerque VA Medical Center will assign a primary point of contact to work alongside a similar contact at the El Paso VA Medical Center to coordinate care referrals. Additionally, the Albuquerque VA Medical Center will provide training to the Alamogordo VA clinic to ensure local staff and veterans are aware of the inter-facility specialty care referrals and care coordination process between Albuquerque and El Paso with the goal of meeting each veteran’s needs and preferences. ### Contacts: Jennifer Talhelm (Udall) 202.228.6870 / Whitney Potter (Heinrich) 202.228.1578 / Keeley Christensen (Pearce) 202.329.2862",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-we-must-stand-israel,PEARCE: WE MUST STAND WITH ISRAEL,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 6, 2017) The U.S. House of Representatives last night passed H.R. 1164, the Taylor Force Act, to withhold nearly all economic aid to the West Bank and Gaza that directly benefits the Palestinian Authority. Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement as a cosponsor of the bill: “We must hold Palestinian Authority (PA) accountable for their deliberate support of violence and terror in Israel and around the region. Just last year, PA spent over $300 million supporting terrorist activity. Through my time as Chairman of the Terrorism and Illicit Finance Subcommittee, I have become all too aware the impact money has on terrorist and criminal enterprise’s ability to perpetuate violence. The United States in no way should be contributing or supporting these actions. As a nation, we must not reward those that support violence against Israel and the United States.” H.R. 1164 passed the night before President Trump recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and announced the State Department will begin a process of moving the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. “Israel is a steadfast ally of the United States,” stated Rep Pearce. “As a nation, we must continue to do what we can to support our ally. Recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital reinforces the bond between our nation’s. A stable middle-east is a stable America, and we must continue to support our allies in the region to prevent further risks to global security.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/nm-delegation-writes-air-force-support-restoring-nm-air-national-guard-tacos%E2%80%99-flying,NM Delegation Writes to Air Force in Support of Restoring NM Air National Guard Tacos Flying Mission,2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Steve Pearce, Michelle Lujan Grisham, and Ben Ray Luján and U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced that they are urging the Air Force to transfer legacy HH-60G PAVE Hawk combat search-and-rescue helicopters to the N.M. Air National Guard when the Air Force fields the new HH-60W Combat Rescue Helicopter at Kirtland Air Force Base. The leadership of the 58th Special Operations Wing (SOW) at Kirtland has told the delegation that they anticipate that the transition from the PAVE Hawk to the Combat Rescue Helicopter will cause a shortage of flight instructors. And, because the wing may soon train in up to four different helicopters at once, it could face challenges finding enough hangar space and classrooms in which to train combat rescue airmen.   In a letter to Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson, the lawmakers wrote that moving the PAVE Hawk helicopters to the 150th Special Operations Wing – under the N.M. National Guard “Tacos” –  would help the 58th SOW address the shortage of manpower and hangar and training space, while also providing the Tacos with aircraft of its own to operate. The Tacos have operated in association with the 58th SOW for several years but have not had a flying mission of their own since 2010. The lawmakers reminded Wilson that, during a hearing of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, she agreed that she would like to see the Tacos back in a flying mission. Additionally, the lawmakers wrote, the transfer would satisfy one of the Air National Guard’s goals of ensuring that each state has a fully equipped flying squadron. “We are fully confident that the New Mexico Air National Guard can provide quality, timely, and cost-effective solutions with its available personnel and infrastructure,” the lawmakers wrote. “As you look at the feasibility of this transfer, you will find the 150th SOW has the infrastructure to support the HH-60G and, with a minimal increase in authorized personnel, can support training and maintenance independent of the airframe. As you know, the New Mexico Air National Guard has a long legacy of service to our nation…. Transferring the HH-60G mission to the NMANG will serve as a force multiplier and continue the important mission of training combat rescue airman. We strongly urge you to consider assigning the HH-60G mission to the NMANG.” A copy of the letter can be found here. The text is below: November 28th, 2017 The Honorable Dr. Heather A. Wilson Secretary of the Air Force Office of the Secretary of the Air Force 1670 Air Force Pentagon Washington, D.C.  20330 Dear Secretary Wilson, We write to express our strong support for the New Mexico Air National Guard to receive Legacy HH-60G aircraft that the Air Force is planning to divest, as it fields the Combat Rescue Helicopter (CRH).  The 58th Special Operations Wing (SOW) at Kirtland Air Force Base is currently scheduled to receive the first CRH in Fiscal Year 2020 and is expected to deliver the legacy HH-60Gs to the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG) at Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ.  The 58th SOW has presented two challenges to our offices regarding the transition to the CRH - manpower and hangar and training space.  We are fully confident that the New Mexico Air National Guard can provide quality, timely, and cost-effective solutions with its available personnel and infrastructure. -Manpower.  The 58th SOW anticipates a shortage of manpower as initial instructors are transitioned to the CRH while their mission requirements remain to produce aircrew in the legacy HH-60G PAVE Hawk.  They have indicated it will require attention and a coordinated effort across the Air Force and they will work with the Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve and Air Combat Command to ensure there is adequate manpower in place not only to train in legacy systems but also to spin up the CRH. -Hangar and Training Space.  The squadron tasked with providing graduate level helicopter training will be heavily tasked as they may train in up to four different helicopters (CRH, legacy training for the HH-60G, UH-1N training and potentially its replacement, the UH-X program).  The 58th SOW has also identified the hangar and associated building where the CRH training will take place is not of adequate size to accomplish this future growth and will not be adequate to support the new requirements.  Furthermore, office and classroom space on the flight line where the new aircrew members will be trained is undersized and will need renovations and additions to ensure a successful and seamless transition for the 58th SOW. Transferring HH-60Gs to the 150th SOW will satisfy one of Air National Guard’s Capstone Principles of ensuring each state’s Air National Guard has a unit equipped wing and flying squadron. It will also guarantee there is not a disruption in pilot production, which is critical given the Air Force’s pilot shortage while also alleviating the stress on the 58th SOW to train in both the legacy and new helicopter airframes.  The President’s FY18 Basing Plan indicates the CRH conversion will take approximately 10 years with the Air National Guard being the last to receive the CRH.  As you look at the feasibility of this transfer, you will find the 150th SOW has the infrastructure to support the HH-60G and, with a minimal increase in authorized personnel, can support training and maintenance of the airframe.  As you know, the New Mexico Air National Guard has a long legacy of service to our nation, and you have previously agreed during testimony before the U.S. Senate that you would also like to see the Tacos in a flying mission again. Transferring the HH-60G mission to the NMANG will serve as a force multiplier and continue the important mission of training combat rescue airman.  We strongly urge you to consider assigning the HH-60G mission to the NMANG. Thank you for your consideration and service. Sincerely, ### Contacts: Jennifer Talhelm (Udall) 202.228.6870 / Whitney Potter (Heinrich) 202.228.1578 / Keeley Christensen (Pearce) 202.329.2862 / Joe Shoemaker (Luján) 202.225.6190 / Gilbert Gallegos (Lujan Grisham) 505.967-5612",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/tax-reform-moves-one-step-closer,TAX REFORM MOVES ONE STEP CLOSER,2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 4, 2017) The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Motion to Go to Conference on H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, moving the bill another step forward. “This is the legislative process at work,” stated Rep. Pearce. “As a nation, we have not come this close to passing a major overhaul to our tax system in over 30 years. This plan will help middle-income New Mexican families by allowing them to keep more hard-earned money in their pocket. It will help ease the burden on small businesses so they can hire more employees and expand. And it will help the United States become a manufacturing hub for the world again – bringing good-paying jobs with it. I look forward to getting this bill passed the finish line.” On November 2, 2017, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and passed in the U.S. Senate on December 2, 2017. The Tax Foundation released a report highlighting the differences between the House and Senate versions of the tax reform bill, and how the legislative process will work to get a final bill agreed upon in both chambers.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-manufactured-housing-reform,HOUSE PASSES MANUFACTURED HOUSING REFORM,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 1, 2017) The U.S. House of Representatives today passed H.R. 1699, the Preserving Access to Manufactured Housing Act, to preserves consumer protections, and allows for additional flexibility in lending to ensure consumers have access to the credit they need.  “Nearly half of the families in New Mexico live in manufactured housing and depend on having access to manufactured housing loans. The burdensome Dodd-Frank Act has crippled manufactured housing lenders’ ability to provide mortgage for these people who rely on manufactured homes as their primary housing option. These homes provide a safe and affordable housing option for New Mexicans as well as communities across the country,” stated Rep. Pearce. “Contrary to many of my colleagues in Congress, my first house was manufactured. I have a firsthand understanding of the importance of having access to both manufactured housing and the credit needed to purchase it. This bill today provides a crucial fix for those rural families in New Mexico, and across the nation, that have few housing options already and would simply like to purchase a manufactured home.” Watch Rep. Pearce speak on the House Floor in support of H.R. 1699 by clicking on the image below or here. H.R. 1699 includes technical corrections to allow for additional flexibility in lending while preserving important consumer protections including Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Housing and Urban Development (HUD) oversight. Due to restrictive changes required by the Dodd-Frank Act, many manufactured housing lenders have stopped making loans under $20,000 and others have stopped lending entirely. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-introduces-legislation-provide-certainty-daca-recipients,PEARCE INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO PROVIDE CERTAINTY TO DACA RECIPIENTS,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (December 1, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce introduced H.R. 4488, the Preserving Opportunity for Childhood Arrivals Act, which will provide certainty to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients. “Working diligently through school to get into college, working nights and weekends to pay your way through college to earn a degree, and getting a good-paying job to help provide for yourself and your family – that’s the American dream. It reminds me of a brilliant young man in New Mexico who was brought to the United States and raised here since the age of two – this country is his home. He worked nights and weekends to pay his way through law school. He has dedicated his career to helping others navigate their way through the immigration system. While he qualified for the DACA program, he didn’t sign up fearing its temporary nature and privacy concerns. Even though it does not benefit him, he supports this bill, and understands the profoundly positive impact it will have on the lives of DACA recipients,” stated Rep. Pearce. On September 5, 2017, U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, more commonly known as DACA, would end on March 5, 2018. Instantly, nearly 800,000 young immigrants brought to the United States who were benefitting from this administrative action had their worlds flipped upside down. “After learning the DACA program would come to an end in just six months, I immediately went to work to develop a solution. One that will provide young immigrants around the nation with even greater certainty so they can continue to work, go to school, and provide for their families with no strings attached. The bill I introduced does just that. We in New Mexico know firsthand the harmful impacts of our nation’s outdated and broken immigration system. DACA recipients have only known the U.S. as their home. That is why, my bill ensures those who were brought to the country by no fault of their own can live and thrive in the U.S. without the fear of deportation. While there’s more to be done, I’m confident my bill provides long-term certainty these young, hardworking immigrants need to achieve the American dream. DACA recipients – also known as our friends, neighbors, and coworkers – deserve meaningful change, rather than patchwork solutions that previous Administrations put into place without truly understanding the long-term effects. While not a large fix, it is one that will profoundly change the lives of hundreds of thousands of young immigrants. I am proud to offer this commonsense, middle ground solution for this time sensitive issue that affects thousands of young immigrants,” Rep. Pearce continued.  Background In September, Rep. Pearce sent a letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan urging Congress to work in a bipartisan manner to establish a permanent solution for people protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program.  Congressman Pearce’s office has been working with individuals and groups in New Mexico and around the nation to create a solution that will assist all DACA recipients impacted. This bill is a solution that is rooted in justice and fairness. At the same time, this legislation honors the millions of immigrants who applied, waited, and arrived in the United States legally by ensuring no beneficiary of this program can jump the line for a Green Card or citizenship. H.R. 4488 creates a “conditional protected status,” or CPS, for current DACA recipients so they can live and work in the U.S. without the constant fear that they might be deported. CPS will be active for 10 years and can be continually renewed at the end of each 10-year segment. It does not require any work, education, or military requirement to qualify. Additionally, recipients will be able to apply for green cards through the regular process as any other immigrant looking to come to the United States. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-introduces-protecting-wounded-warriors-right-serve-act-0,PEARCE INTRODUCES THE PROTECTING WOUNDED WARRIORS RIGHT TO SERVE ACT,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 28, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce introduced H.R. 4453, the Protecting Wounded Warriors Right to Serve Act, which enables Wounded Warriors to continue serving in the emerging field of Remotely Piloted Aircrafts (RPA), regardless of their military branch. “Today’s service men and women face dangers in an ever-evolving battlefield, including IEDs, suicide bombers, and a host of brutal tactics that have left countless soldiers permanently injured. Many times, these men and women want to continue serving their country, but are unable to due to their combat or service related injuries. Wounded Warriors have sacrificed greatly for our nation. The least we can do is provide them with the ability to continue to serve our nation, and my bill provides the opportunity to do just that. Passage of H.R. 4453 will result in the creation of a program for Wounded Warriors to continue their service in the emerging field of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) as both pilots and operators. RPA’s have changed the way our nation is able to support and assist our troops in harm’s way. They play a critical role in the global reach of the Air Force by providing unique airstrike capabilities, over watch, target development, disaster relief, close air support, and play various other roles for the nation’s deployed forces. The demand for troops in this field is ever expanding,” stated Rep. Pearce. Background H.R. 4453 streamlines the process for transferring Wounded Warriors to the Air Force and creates a process to pipeline them into the RPA field to serve as pilots and sensor operators. There is an RPA pilot shortage for Officers, as well as, a sensor operators’ shortage for Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO)s and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs). RPA pilot and sensor operator manning levels have dwindled due to the constant deployment posture, nature of the mission, and the dual emergence of the private RPA/UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) sector. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-leads-joint-subcommittee-hearing-modifying-bank-secrecy-act,PEARCE LEADS JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE HEARING ON MODIFYING BANK SECRECY ACT,2017-11-29,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 29, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today led the Terrorism and Illicit Finance Subcommittee and the Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit Subcommittee joint hearing on countering terrorism financing. This joint hearing examined H.R. 2219, the End Banking for Human Traffickers Act of 2017, and the Counter Terrorism and Illicit Finance Act to modernize the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), which is sponsored by Rep. Pearce. “From the Treasury Department, down to local law enforcement, many moving parts are involved in thwarting the funding of terrorist activities and criminal schemes. As the threat of terrorism evolves, so should the regulations that are used to detect and disrupt the illicit financing within our nation’s financial system,” stated Rep. Pearce. “I appreciate the dedication and work of my colleagues as we work to modernize the Bank Secrecy Act and improve our nation’s framework to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. The Bank Secrecy Act provides agencies within the Treasury Department the vital ability to safeguard our financial system from money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit uses. It is imperative to national security that they have the resources needed to detect and disrupt the funding of criminal activity and terroristic acts.” Watch Rep. Pearce give his opening statement at today’s hearing by clicking on the image below or here. Background H.R. 2219 would add the Secretary of the Treasury to the President’s Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking. This task force is required to submit recommendations to Congress on revisions to anti-money laundering programs to target money laundering as it relates to human trafficking. This bill also reforms training and procedures of anti-money laundering programs in efforts to eliminate human trafficking by eradicating the illicit financing. Rep. Pearce’s discussion draft titled Counter Terrorism and Illicit Finance Act would modernize the Bank Secrecy Act. This bill will reform the BSA to ensure financial institutions and law enforcement are better able to detect and combat the illicit movement of money by criminals and terrorists. The discussion draft of this bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-final-mexican-wolf-recovery-program-plan,PEARCE STATEMENT ON FINAL MEXICAN WOLF RECOVERY PROGRAM PLAN,2017-11-29,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 29, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) released their final Mexican Wolf Recovery Program’s plan: “I appreciate the Fish and Wildlife Service’s attempt at greater collaboration with local governments and communities as they finalized this plan, unfortunately the plan itself continues to fall short. It once again places the burden of recovery on the backs of New Mexicans and disregards the serious concerns of ranchers and farmers whose livelihoods are affected by the program. Additionally, the updated recovery plan ignores the fact that the vast majority of traditional habitat lies in Mexico. Any recovery plan must include responsibility and cost on the Mexican government. I am disappointed in Fish and Wildlife Service’s actions, and remain committed to the creation of recovery plan that is both productive for the species and protective of the New Mexican way of life.” Background On March 10, 2017, Rep. Pearce sent a letter to Secretary Zinke of the Department of the Interior calling for a 90-day extension to the comment period for the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Mexican Wolf Recovery Program’s Release and Translocation Proposal so they can provide local communities and governments directly affected by the program suitable time to provide their input. On September 6, 2017, Rep. Pearce sent a letter to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding the Draft Mexican Wolf Recovery Play, First Revision in efforts to update the current plan which was developed in 1982. According to FWS’s 1982 Recovery Plan, the Mexican Wolf’s historic habitat is largely located in Mexico. This plan calls for 320 Mexican Wolves in the U.S. for four consecutive years to down list and eight consecutive years for delisting. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-introduces-protecting-wounded-warriors-right-serve-act,PEARCE INTRODUCES THE PROTECTING WOUNDED WARRIORS RIGHT TO SERVE ACT,2017-11-28,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 28, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce introduced H.R. 4453, the Protecting Wounded Warriors Right to Serve Act, which enables Wounded Warriors to continue serving in the emerging field of Remotely Piloted Aircrafts (RPA), regardless of their military branch. “Today’s service men and women face dangers in an ever-evolving battlefield, including IEDs, suicide bombers, and a host of brutal tactics that have left countless soldiers permanently injured. Many times, these men and women want to continue serving their country, but are unable to due to their combat or service related injuries. Wounded Warriors have sacrificed greatly for our nation. The least we can do is provide them with the ability to continue to serve our nation, and my bill provides the opportunity to do just that. Passage of H.R. 4453 will result in the creation of a program for Wounded Warriors to continue their service in the emerging field of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) as both pilots and operators. RPA’s have changed the way our nation is able to support and assist our troops in harm’s way. They play a critical role in the global reach of the Air Force by providing unique airstrike capabilities, over watch, target development, disaster relief, close air support, and play various other roles for the nation’s deployed forces. The demand for troops in this field is ever expanding,” stated Rep. Pearce. Background H.R. 4453 streamlines the process for transferring Wounded Warriors to the Air Force and creates a process to pipeline them into the RPA field to serve as pilots and sensor operators. There is an RPA pilot shortage for Officers, as well as, a sensor operators’ shortage for Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO)s and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs). RPA pilot and sensor operator manning levels have dwindled due to the constant deployment posture, nature of the mission, and the dual emergence of the private RPA/UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) sector. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-tax-reform-bill,HOUSE PASSES TAX REFORM BILL,2017-11-16,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 16, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act: “The current 70,000-page tax code is outdated and too complicated. It simply doesn’t work for New Mexican and American families. Passage of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act provides relief for lower- and middle-income families and creates more, better paying jobs. Study after study has shown this bill will help the economy grow and raise wages for the average household in America. By consolidating the seven tax brackets to four, and doubling the standard deduction, the New Mexican families around the State will be able to keep more of their own paycheck. More hard-earned money in the pockets of families means, a greater ability to save for children’s education, to save more for retirement, or to save for emergency expenses. Small businesses remain the backbone of our communities. To support them, this bill reduces their taxes so that they can invest where it matters most – their business. With this change we will see greater expansion of our New Mexico companies, more job opportunities, and better wages.   I agree with you – the tax code is currently weighted against hard-working people and families. The House acted to end this imbalance today. With this bill, we’ll see more New Mexican businesses thrive, more jobs become available, and, ultimately, a more prosperous future for our children and grandchildren.” Background According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act will create an additional 5,600 jobs in New Mexico. This bill is also expected to raise the after-tax income for middle-class families in New Mexico by nearly $2,100. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce also expects that nearly 50,000 taxpayers in New Mexico’s Second Congressional District will benefit from the increase in the child tax credit provided in this bill, and will provide relief for 36,900 small business owners. To read the full U.S. Chamber of Commerce fact sheet, click here. The Tax Foundation reported the impact that tax changes will have on jobs and incomes around the country, and confirmed the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act will raise wages and create jobs. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/new-mexico-delegation-calls-new-army-secretary-bring-active-duty-mission-wsmr,New Mexico Delegation Calls On New Army Secretary To Bring Active Duty Mission To WSMR,2017-11-16,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 16, 2017) – In a letter to incoming Secretary of the Army Mark Esper, U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Steve Pearce (R-N.M.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-N.M.) urged him to consider White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) as a garrison host for a Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB), which could bring close to 500 Army officers to WSMR. Secretary Esper was confirmed by the Senate on Wednesday afternoon. The delegation delivered the letter on Secretary Esper’s first day on the job. The delegation outlined that there is an immediate availability of $170 million worth of modern, battalion sized facilities that are vacant at WSMR, citing more than 130,000 square feet of brand new facilities from headquarters, to maintenance bays, a new dining facility and a 134,000-acre maneuver training area with close proximity to the personnel of the 1st Armored Division and Brigade Modernization Command at Ft. Bliss, TX. “We appreciate Army’s decision to accelerate the establishment and selection of the remaining five SFAB’s. WSMR has a long history of hosting active-duty units, and the state of New Mexico would provide a warm welcome to the Army should it decide to station an SFAB at White Sands. In basing roughly 500 officers and senior noncommissioned officers at WSMR, the Army can take full advantage of the exceptional training capabilities offered at the post while making the best use of taxpayer dollars,” wrote the members. Members of the delegation met with Dr. Mark Esper this year and provided documentation citing the unique terrain, zero-to-infinity airspace, and expertise at WSMR that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the country. During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Dr. Esper committed to give full consideration to WSMR and its modern facilities for the SFAB mission. The letter is available here and below. November 16, 2017  Hon. Mark Esper Secretary of the Army101 Army Pentagon Washington, D.C. 20310 General Mark A. Milley  Chief of Staff of the Army200 Army PentagonWashington, D.C. 20310 Dear Secretary Esper and General Milley: First, as members of New Mexico’s congressional delegation, we write to congratulate you on your confirmation as our nation’s 23rd Secretary of the Army. The United States faces a number of global challenges, and your immediate leadership will be needed to ensure our military remains the most capable military in the world. Specifically, we write to urge you to consider White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) as a garrison host for a Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB). As you know, Congress has provided a significant amount of resources toward training foreign security forces in recent years, so we welcome the Army’s announcement to establish brigades who will specialize in this mission, while demonstrating the best use of taxpayer dollars. There is an immediate availability of $170 million worth of modern, battalion sized facilities that are vacant at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR). We are fully confident that the facilities available at WSMR have the capacity and capability to support an SFAB mission. The available facilities include the features described below and pictured in Figure 1: One 17,715 sq. ft. headquarters building with 23 office spaces, five conference rooms, a secure room, vault and elevator. Six company headquarters in one 65,969 sq. ft. building. Each company area has a vault, a ready room with over 100 personal equipment lockers, communications and supply storage rooms; along with three shared conference rooms and locker room type latrines/showers. One 19,500 sq. ft. battalion level dining facility (DFAC) consisting of two offices, a drive-thru window, dry storage room, and public & crew latrines. One vehicle maintenance shop consisting of 34,925 sq. ft., with 14 offices, five bays, a 10T overhead crane, 24x14 ft. doors, one elevator, POL & parts storage, and six 5,775 sq. ft. organizational storage buildings. One parade field and a segregated parking lot.  Figure 1: Modern and vacant battalion facilities at WSMR From a training standpoint, WSMR is the largest overland military installation in the country, offering a 134,000 acre maneuver training area with close proximity to the personnel of the 1st Armored Division and Brigade Modernization Command at Ft. Bliss, TX. Stationing an SFAB at WSMR would also benefit from synergies with the Army Warfighter Assessment and Network Integration Exercise programs. WSMR is a tri-Service joint post supporting U.S. Army, U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force contingents along with a multitude of RDT&E organizations from defense industry and international partners. WSMR also frequently hosts allied and partner nation elements, offering one-of-a-kind opportunities for training and integrating joint forces. We appreciate Army’s decision to accelerate the establishment and selection of the remaining five SFAB’s. WSMR has a long history of hosting active-duty units, and the state of New Mexico would provide a warm welcome to the Army should it decide to station an SFAB at White Sands. In basing roughly 500 officers and senior noncommissioned officers at WSMR, the Army can take full advantage of the exceptional training capabilities offered at the post while making the best use of taxpayer dollars. We look forward to working with you on this issue, and New Mexico stands ready to support the U.S. Army on this critical mission. Sincerely, U.S. Senator Tom Udall U.S. Senator Martin HeinrichU.S. Representative Steve PearceU.S. Representative Ben Ray LujánU.S. Representative Michelle Lujan Grisham ### Contacts: Jennifer Talhelm (Udall) 202.228.6870 / Whitney Potter (Heinrich) 202.228.1578 / Keeley Christensen (Pearce) 202.225.2365 / Joe Shoemaker (Luján) 202.225.6190 / Gilbert Gallegos (Lujan Grisham) 505.967.5612",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-introduces-bill-%E2%80%9Cprohibit-back-pay-bergdahl%E2%80%9D,PEARCE INTRODUCES BILL TO PROHIBIT BACK PAY FOR BERGDAHL,2017-11-16,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 15, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today introduced a bill to prohibit the Army from providing Bowe Bergdahl with back pay and special compensation after deserting his post in 2009. “Bowe Bergdahl risked the lives and safety of countless troops by deserting his post in Afghanistan. Despite his actions and being dishonorably discharged, he will not face jail time. This was a mistake. However, the Army’s suggestion that Bergahl may receive back pay and special compensation accumulated during his desertion would be another massive mistake by the Army. Under no circumstances should a man found guilty of desertion – who endangered military personnel for five years looking for him -  be eligible to receive taxpayer dollars. For this reason, I’m proud to introduce this bill to ensure Bergdahl receives no special treatment or pay and ensure this is never even a question in the future,” stated Rep. Pearce. Bowe Bergdhal deserted his post in June of 2009. In May 2014, Bergdahl was released and recovered by U.S. Army Special Forces in exchange for five Guantanamo Bay detainees. The U.S. Army charged Bergdahl for desertion and misbehavior before the enemy in March 2015. Earlier this month, he plead guilty for both charges. This legislation will amend the Uniform Code of Military Justice to prohibit unpaid compensation and benefits from being given to Bowe Bergdahl and other service members who are found guilty of desertion. Additionally, this bill directs the Secretary of Defense to give deserters’ back pay to the families of service members whose were killed, injured, or wounded while on search and rescue missions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-director-cordray%E2%80%99s-resignation,PEARCE STATEMENT ON DIRECTOR CORDRAYS RESIGNATION,2017-11-15,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"PEARCE STATEMENT ON DIRECTOR CORDRAY’S RESIGNATION Nov 15, 2017 Washington, D.C. (November 15, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after Director Richard Cordray announced he will step down as head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) by the end of the month: “The CFPB has enacted countless rules that hurt rural communities in New Mexico more than any other. Rather than provide true protections, as originally intended to do, the CFPB has worked in its own interest without any accountability and transparency. It is beyond time for new leadership to take over this agency to prevent greater burdens from falling on the backs of American taxpayers. I will continue my work expanding access to financial products in rural New Mexico communities, and look forward to working with the next CFPB Director to put financial freedom and choice back in the hands of the consumers where it belongs.” In June 2017, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Financial Choice Act to repeal the Dodd-Frank Act, which created the CFPB. Rep. Pearce has supported multiple efforts in the House to provide financial relief to consumers in New Mexico, including the repeal of CFPB's Arbitration Rule that harmed small, rural banks. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-reforms-flood-insurance-program,HOUSE REFORMS FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM,2017-11-14,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"HOUSE REFORMS FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM Nov 14, 2017 Washington, D.C. (November 14, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 2874, the 21st Century Flood Reform Act, to reform the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): “The National Flood Insurance Program was created to better protect homeowners and businesses in high-risk flood zones because the private market simply wasn’t able to do it. Unfortunately, after 50 years, this program has become financially unstable and is in desperate need of reform. Most importantly, today’s bill reduces the cost of insurance for residents in low-risk areas like the ones in our New Mexico communities. To do so, this legislation modernizes aspects of the NFIP to more accurately map flood risk, requires FEMA to oversee the financial health of the program, and enables private insurance providers to offer coverage. The ultimate goal is to create a competitive marketplace so private insurance providers can offer consumers coverage at more affordable rates.” H.R. 2874 reauthorizes the National Flood Insurance Program for five years, provides access to a private market, and includes reforms to increase affordability for policyholders. To read more about the bill, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-applauds-second-facebook-expansion-los-lunas,PEARCE APPLAUDS SECOND FACEBOOK EXPANSION IN LOS LUNAS,2017-11-14,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 14, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after Facebook announced plans to expand the Los Lunas Data Center a second time: “New Mexico has long been a hub for technological advancement and development, but this billion-dollar plus investment will once again bring our state to the forefront. Since the first announcement was made in 2016 Facebook has twice decided to expand the size of their Data Center in Los Lunas. This is no mistake. Our State offers the environment, talent, and space needed for high-tech companies to succeed. The continued expansion will keep 1,000 construction jobs working until at least 2023. I believe this massive project will make tech companies nationwide take notice of our great state. As a State, we must be ready to promote, recruit, and innovate to continue the development of high-tech infrastructure throughout New Mexico. Thank you to Facebook for their commitment to New Mexico, and to the dedicated workforce that has made the decision to expand here an easy one.” In October 2016, Facebook broke ground on the Los Lunas Data Center. In July 2017, Facebook announced their plans to double the size of the data center. This provided 1,000 construction jobs while under development through 2020. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-increase-pay-troops-and-modernize-defense-department,PEARCE VOTES TO INCREASE PAY FOR TROOPS AND MODERNIZE DEFENSE DEPARTMENT,2017-11-14,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 14, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 2810, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018: “The NDAA is by far one of the most important pieces of legislation that comes before Congress each year. It authorizes crucial training, equipment, and resources our nation’s military relies upon to complete its mission. This year’s bill places a special focus on modernizing our military forces so our nation is ready to take on tomorrow’s threats. From military installments to combat resources, modernization must occur across the DOD. This bill commits more time and energy towards research, development, evaluation, and testing to ensure America’s service members have confidence in the tools they use in combat. This includes prioritizing vital missions ongoing at New Mexico’s labs and bases, like White Sands Missile Range that tests next-generation missile defense systems required to combat the growing threats around the world. The modernization also includes vital reforms to the DOD’s audit process, mandating a full budget review to ensure taxpayer money is spent efficiently and effectively, and with more transparency than ever before. The United States has been sending our nation’s troops into harm’s way in Afghanistan since 2001. As an ardent supporter of our service men and women, I believe we must form a comprehensive military strategy to achieve our continued missions and goals in the Middle East, and the NDAA will support efforts to do just that. This bill requires the DOD to produce a strategy and present it to Congress to ensure all moving parts are working together, in the right direction to be successful. Along with these significant reforms and rebuilding of our military, the NDAA also includes a much-needed military pay raise, which is the largest raise the military has seen in eight years. America’s service members, veterans, and their families have sacrificed greatly to defend our freedoms and preserve democracy. The very least we can do is uphold our commitment to honor their sacrifices and provide them the resources they need during and after service. Being a service member affects your life and your family forever. Service men and women deserve quality care and support for them and their families for sacrificing so much to defend our freedoms.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-veterans-day-address,PEARCE VETERANS DAY ADDRESS,2017-11-13,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 11, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following address in recognition of Veterans Day: “On this Veterans Day, we remember, and we say thank you. We come together to honor the sacrifice and service of the men and women who courageously fight for our freedoms. I made a commitment to ensure our service members have the resources they need to succeed, and what that means is if they’re in combat, they have the tools – they have the weapons – they have the body armor to protect them. After their service, we have to honor the promise we made to make sure they get the care they deserve. This week, honoring our veterans, we passed over a dozen bills to expand health care, improve benefits, and to ensure we always remember the ultimate sacrifices that were made for the liberties we enjoy today. I’ve also been working on legislation to improve opportunities and services for our veterans. Today’s service members face dangers in an ever-evolving battlefield, including IEDs, suicide bombers and a host brutal tactics that have left countless soldiers permanently injured. Many times, these members want to continue serving their country but are unable due to their combat or service related injury. To honor their valor, I’ll be introducing a bill to create a program for these wounded warriors to continue their service in the emerging field of Remotely Piloted Aircraft, sometimes referred to as RPA, as both pilots and operators. I’ve also introduced legislation to make vital changes to the Beneficiary Travel program and the Service Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance program. Our service members courageously went into harm’s way and for that we are grateful. Our service members courageously went into harm’s way and for that we are grateful. I’m thankful for those serving our country today at home and abroad. May God bless each of you and your families. Today, let’s keep our fallen heroes and our current service members in our thoughts and prayers. Because of the brave, we are free. Happy Veteran’s Day, and God bless you.” To watch Rep. Pearce’s address, click on the image below or here. Rep. Pearce’s upcoming legislation will allow wounded warriors to continue their military service in the Remotely Piloted Aircraft program as both pilots and operators. RPA’s provide airstrike capabilities, convey over watch, target development, disaster relief, close air support and a number of other roles for our deployed forces. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-congratulates-new-head-fincen,PEARCE CONGRATULATES NEW HEAD OF FINCEN,2017-11-09,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 9, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the U.S. Department of the Treasury named Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Blanco as the new head of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN): “As Chairman of the Terrorism and Illicit Finance Subcommittee, I understand the important work that Treasury’s FinCEN department plays in combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit financing activities. FinCEN needs a strong, forward looking leader that will continue to innovate and ensure the Bureau is achieving its mission. Kenneth Blanco has decades of experience, I look forward to working closely with him to provide FinCEN and Treasury with the tools they need to succeed in protecting our nation from illicit activity.” Background FinCEN was established by the U.S. Department of the Treasury in 1990 and was upgraded to official Bureau status in 2002 with the passage of the PATRIOT Act. The Bureau acts as the United States’ financial intelligence unit (FUI) and is the primary regulator of the Bank Secrecy Act - our nation’s first and most comprehensive federal anti-money laundering statute. FinCEN’s mission is to safeguard the financial system from illicit use, combat money laundering and promote national security through the collection, analysis, and dissemination of financial intelligence and strategic use of financial authorities. Rep. Pearce was named the Chairman of the new House Subcommittee on Terrorism and Illicit Finance, formally established as a part of the House Financial Services Committee in the 115th Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-amendment-passes-natural-resources-committee,PEARCE AMENDMENT PASSES NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE,2017-11-08,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 8, 2017) The House Committee on Natural Resources passed H.R. 4239, the Strengthening the Economy with Critical Untapped Resources to Expand American Energy Act (SECURE American Energy Act), with an amendment sponsored by Congressman Steve Pearce. This provision would codify Bureau of Land Management (BLM) policy and ensure that guidelines from the Mineral Leasing Act are followed. “Earlier this year, the BLM withheld New Mexico’s fair share of revenue from an oil and gas lease sale in southeastern New Mexico. Due to a protest by extreme environmental groups, nearly $70 million dollars was stalled from getting to the State for roughly 8 months. For state’s like New Mexico that face tough financial times, this made it extremely hard to balance our budget, which is required each year under New Mexico’s Constitution. The protest period must have a deadline so that this situation doesn’t happen again, which is exactly what my amendment will do,” stated Rep. Pearce. Background The Mineral Leasing Act mandates that leases paid for during oil and gas sales be issued 60 days after the sale. BLM policy states any protest should be completed before the lease is issued. In 2010, a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report stated 91% of protested leases were not issued within the 60-day window. In April 2017, the Rep. Pearce sent a letter to BLM’s New Mexico State Director requesting BLM complete the leasing process to ensure payment of $69.9 million is provided to the state of New Mexico. Watch Rep. Pearce speak on his amendment in the House Natural Resources Committee hearing here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-leads-hearing-safeguarding-us-financial-system,PEARCE LEADS HEARING ON SAFEGUARDING U.S. FINANCIAL SYSTEM,2017-11-08,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 8, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today led the Subcommittee on Terrorism and Illicit Finance entitled, “Financial Intelligence and Enforcement: Treasury’s Role in Safeguarding the American Financial System.” The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence (TFI) plays a vital role in combatting terrorist financing, money laundering, financial crimes, and other threats to our national security. “TFI, and the bureaus and agencies that comprise it, play a vital role in exposing the movement of illicit finance within our nation’s financial system. The threat of terrorism is ever-evolving and TFI must be able to adapt to the fluid environment of illicit finance. As Congress examines the issues surrounding the detection and disruption of bad actors in our financial system, Treasury’s collection and analysis of financial intelligence is pivotal to successfully interrupting terrorist plots and criminal schemes. Moving forward, modernizing the current system to reflect the capabilities of today’s institutions and ensure law enforcement receives a complete and detailed picture of criminal activity is paramount. TFI and Congress need to continually evaluate and improve our nation’s ability to detect and intercept the financial resources of terrorists and to prevent criminals from exploiting our financial system for personal gain. I thank the Treasury’s Office of TFI Under Secretary Sigal Mandelker for attending today’s hearing and working with Congress to improve efforts to combat terrorist financing,” stated Rep. Pearce. Background In 2004, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence (TFI) was established to marshal the Treasury’s policy, enforcement, regulatory, and intelligence functions to safeguard the financial system from illicit use that goes against national security interests. TFI is comprised of the Office of Terrorist Financing and Financial Crime (TFFC), the Office of Intelligence and Analysis (OIA), the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), and the Treasury Executive Office for Asset Forfeiture (TEOAF). On June 21, 2017, the U.S. Senate confirmed Sigal Mandelker as Under Secretary for the Treasury’s Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. Click here to watch the full Subcommittee hearing. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/local-leaders-voice-support-pearce-amendment,LOCAL LEADERS VOICE SUPPORT FOR PEARCE AMENDMENT,2017-11-07,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 7, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce sponsored an amendment that passed last week along with H.R. 2936, the Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2017. The bill works to prevent catastrophic wildfires and improve the health of forests. This year’s devastating wildfire season has already burned nearly 8,000 homes and cost upwards of $3 billion dollars in fire suppression efforts. H.R. 2936 streamlines the management of federal forests to reduce the risk of wildfires, and shortens the environmental review process and reduce bureaucratic regulations that increase time and costs of forest management. Rep. Pearce states, “the best way to revitalize our nation’s forests while preserving their ecosystems is through the creation of restoration projects that will return them to a healthy density. My amendment creates a pilot project in New Mexico to advance these projects forward in an efficient timeframe. The sooner these restorations efforts begin, the sooner we can begin avoiding catastrophic events that damage the safety and future of New Mexico families and businesses.” Support for H.R. 2936 and Rep. Pearce’s amendment is rolling in from local officials and leaders: “I acknowledge the long-standing support and hard work of Steve Pearce to better New Mexico. Historically Pearce has always looked after the resources found in our national forest by supporting forest management initiatives such as H.R. 2936 that will promote forest restoration, prevention of forest fires, and the creation of jobs. We can always count on Congressman Pearce to do what is right for New Mexico,” stated City of Grants Mayor Martin “Modey” Hicks. “What we hope to see in the future is increased forest management for forest health, forest resilience and wildfire mitigation but also give our members work and jobs and access to the raw materials we use to make products. NMFIA supports every opportunity for our members to actively increase watershed treatments on the national forest,” stated Brent Racher, President of the New Mexico Forest Industry Association. “As you all know, New Mexico has been subject to catastrophic wildfires. This amendment offered by Mr. Pearce will head us in the in the right direction in properly maintain our forests for future generation, benefit the watershed, benefit wildlife and preserve our historic sites. I as a citizen of New Mexico, Cibola County, and as the Point of Contact for the Cibola National Forest Landscape Team, as well as the Facilitator of the Mount Taylor/Zuni Mountain Forest Service Collaborative, I want to offer my support of such legislation,” stated Les Gaines, Assistant City Manager, Grants County. “Anyone that lives in Cibola County and loves the magnificent Mt. Taylor and the forests that surround it appreciates the tremendous effort that Rep. Stevan Pearce has made to protect the natural beauty and accessibility and enjoyment of this amazing area. It is because Rep. Pearce works with everyone, regardless of their Party affiliation. Rep. Pearce actually shows up to important meetings and uses his expertise and common sense to cut through the red tape and get things done.  This amendment proves his devotion to the land, and the needs of the people.  We support this amendment,” stated Robert S. Windhorst, Cibola County Commissioner, District 4. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-applauds-court%E2%80%99s-decision-uphold-water-rights,PEARCE APPLAUDS COURTS DECISION TO UPHOLD WATER RIGHTS,2017-11-07,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 7, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce has been working with the Goss Family Ranch SGA for over a decade to resolve a water rights battle between the Goss’s and the federal government. The Forest Service, following direction from the Federal Wildlife Service (FWS), took away the Goss’s right to property they owned, which included a stream that was crucial to the success of their business and ongoing operation. The federal government’s overreach in this case not only hindered the Constitutional rights of American citizens, but cut into rural jobs and the local economy in Otero County, NM.  The Goss family filed a lawsuit that ensued for over 20 years. Rep. Pearce’s office worked since 2003 with the Goss family, the Forest Service, and the FWS to ensure that the Goss’s were able to access the water to continue running their cattle through the area. The culmination of this work was an agreement facilitated through Rep. Pearce’s office last year, which is still currently in place this year.  Previous courts ruled the Forest Service did not have the right to the Goss’s property. Rather than upholding the Constitution, the Goss family was forced to fight for their rights in court, putting them in financial peril and hindering the full operation of their ranch. On Friday, November 3, 2017, Chief Judge Braden of the United States Court of Federal Claims issued a decision in the Goss’s favor, claiming the Forest Services’ actions constituted takings under U.S. law and violated the right to beneficial use of stock water sources under New Mexico law. The Constitution is meant to protect the small people from an oversized government. In this case, Judge Braden ruled the Federal Services’ actions violated the Fifth Amendment’s taking clause, which states “private property [shall not] be taken for public use without just compensation.” Rep. Pearce stated, “this decision has been a long time coming. I have been working on this issue since 2004, when Jimmy and Frances Goss were still with us leading the fight for their rights and their ranch. They wore their life out fighting the federal government. Now, I’m pleased to see that justice is served for the Goss family and ranch. As a rural state, we rely on the production and success of small, locally owned businesses. It is a shame that the federal government impeded on the operations of one of the largest ranching and cattle operations in Arizona and New Mexico. Rather than having the freedom to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the Goss family was tied up for over 20 years in court, paying out-of-pocket to afford the battle. Government employees need to remember that they must act within the law and with complete respect for our individual liberties. I thank the Goss family and entire ranching community for staying in this fight. I’ll continue standing up for the Constitution and working to ensure New Mexicans’ rights are preserved and upheld.” To read the full opinion by Judge Braden, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-extend-vital-healthcare-programs,PEARCE VOTES TO EXTEND VITAL HEALTHCARE PROGRAMS,2017-11-03,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 3, 2017) The U.S. House of Representatives today passed H.R. 3922, the CHAMPIONING HEALTHY KIDS Act, to fund the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), community health centers (CHC), and other important public health priorities including additional Medicaid Assistance funding. This bill also includes a two-year funding extension for the Indian Health Service’s Special Diabetes Program. “Passage of this bill today is a vital step to providing essential funding for communities throughout New Mexico. CHIP, CHC, and the Special Diabetes Programs, specifically, aid highly rural and low-income communities by providing sole points of service for crucial child healthcare programs along with access to medical care that otherwise would be next to impossible to offer. The health and safety of New Mexican communities is directly related to the funding and continuation of these programs. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to get this legislation quickly enacted into law,” stated Rep. Pearce. Background H.R. 3922 extends the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for five years to provide health care to lower-income children. In 2015, this program was relied upon by more than 8.4 million children as a primary source of health insurance. This bill extends CHIP funding through Fiscal Year 2022. This legislation also provides a two-year extension for community health centers that promote community-based, patient-centered healthcare to underserved communities. A two-year funding extension is also granted for the Indian Health Service’s Special Diabetes Program for Indians, the National Health Service Corps, Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education, Family-to-Family Health Information Centers, the Youth Empowerment Program, and the Personal Responsibility Education Program. Rep. Pearce has supported multiple efforts in Congress to reauthorize funding for CHIP including the continuation of funding for community health centers and Disproportionate Share Hospital payments. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-supports-tax-reform-stronger-new-mexico,PEARCE SUPPORTS TAX REFORM FOR A STRONGER NEW MEXICO,2017-11-02,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 2, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the House Committee on Ways and Means released the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which reforms the nation’s tax code to create better opportunities for individuals, families, and businesses to thrive: “For months, the House has been working on legislation to reform our nation’s tax code to provide relief for small businesses, empower the middle-class, and create more jobs for hard-working Americans – Today’s bill does just that. This plan lowers the individual tax rate for lower- and middle-class families, and reduces the tax rate for small businesses so more money is spent on expanding operations and hiring and paying workers. By lowering the corporate tax rate, manufacturing can once again return to the United States, bringing with it good-paying jobs for people across the nation. It is time New Mexicans have a simple, fair, and modernized tax code, and I’ll continue working to ensure the tax code prioritizes the needs and priorities of New Mexicans.” On October 26, 2017, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an important measure to move tax reform forward so that individuals, families, and businesses across the nation could benefit from tax relief. Rep. Pearce recently joined KFOX to discuss the importance of getting tax reform passed for businesses and families in New Mexico. To read a summary of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-forest-management-bill-pearce-amendment,HOUSE PASSES FOREST MANAGEMENT BILL WITH PEARCE AMENDMENT,2017-11-01,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (November 1, 2017) The U.S. House of Representatives today passed H.R. 2936, the Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2017, with an amendment sponsored by Congressman Steve Pearce. This provision would allow for expedited forest restoration projects in New Mexico which would protect the health and longevity of the environment and expand the economy. “Over time, thinning and logging activities in New Mexico and across the West have been drastically reduced. This reduction of thinning and logging activities has significantly aided the size and severity of wildfires in our state. The best way to restore our forests while preserving their ecosystems is the creation of restoration projects that will return them a healthy density. My amendment creates a pilot project in New Mexico to advance these projects forward in an efficient timeframe. The sooner these restorations efforts begin, the sooner we can begin avoiding catastrophic events that damage the safety and future of New Mexico families and businesses,” stated Rep. Pearce. Click on the photo above or here to watch Rep. Pearce speak on the House Floor. Overall, H.R. 2936 streamlines the management of federal forests to reduce the risk of wildfires. This bill will shorten the environmental review process and reduce bureaucratic regulations that increase time and costs of forest management. “We in New Mexico are all too familiar with the economic and environmental devastation created by catastrophic wildfires. The management of our federal forests is in desperate need of updating to ensure communities, watersheds, endangered species, local businesses, and firefighters are kept safe. We must increase and expedite forest thinning and other forest treatment projects to restore forest health across the country. Today’s common-sense bill will cut government red tape and simplify the approval processes for essential forest management projects to ensure our fire-prone, federal forests get the treatment they need,” stated Rep. Pearce. H.R. 2936 is supported by over 95 conservation, forestry, and industry groups, including the New Mexico Coalition of Conservation Districts and New Mexico Forest Industry Association. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-nomination-scott-garrett-head-export-import-bank,PEARCE STATEMENT ON NOMINATION OF SCOTT GARRETT TO HEAD EXPORT-IMPORT BANK,2017-11-01,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"PEARCE STATEMENT ON NOMINATION OF SCOTT GARRETT TO HEAD EXPORT-IMPORT BANK Nov 1, 2017 Washington, DC (May 2, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement on the President’s nomination of former U.S. Representative Scott Garrett as Chairman of the Export-Import Bank Board: “I applaud the President’s decision to nominate my former colleague, Scott Garrett, as the Export-Import Bank’s Chairman of the Board. The Export-Import Bank has an important role to play in the economy, helping US businesses compete globally. In recent years, the Bank has lost focus and run largely without accountability or reform. I look forward to working with Scott to reform the Export-Import Bank to best serve the American people, and the American economy.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-introduces-veterans%E2%80%99-life-insurance-bill,PEARCE INTRODUCES VETERANS LIFE INSURANCE BILL,2017-10-27,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 27, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today introduced H.R. 4146, the Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance Act of 2017, to provide needed improvements to the service-disabled veterans’ life insurance program (S-DVI). Disabled veterans have a challenging time receiving life insurance through the civilian sector due to their physical or mental injuries incurred during their time in service. This bill will update the nation’s current S-DVI premiums and disability provisions which are based on mortality and annuity tables from 1941. “Veterans injured in combat face many challenges as they return home and adjust back into civilian life. What makes it even more challenging for veterans and their families is having to accept an antiquated insurance system that does little to provide the quality care and services they deserve. For over 70 years, the S-DVI program has been basing their costs off the assumption that veterans only live to an average age of about 62 years old. The legislation I’m introducing will modernize this program to lower premium costs for veterans and provide increased funds to the families of deceased veterans. Our nation’s veterans sacrificed so much to defend our freedoms and liberties, and we must honor our commitments to them. This legislation reforms the S-DVI program to provide protection and certainty for service-disabled veterans and their families, breaking down the barriers that affects the livelihoods of veterans across the nation. It is beyond time to enhance the S-DVI program, and I will continue working with my colleagues and veterans in New Mexico to stand by my promise to the men and women who bravely stepped up to serve and protect our nation,” stated Rep. Pearce. H.R. 4146 amends Title 38 of the United States Code to adjust the S-DVI cap based on the 2017 inflation rate, increasing the current cap from $10,000 to $95,000, and will create a process for adjusting the cap based on inflation each year. This bill will increase the filling and enrollment limitation from 2 years to 10 years, and includes enrollment waiver options. Current premium rates charged for S-DVI coverage are based on Annuity and Mortality Tables from 1941. Under this new legislation, S-DVI premium rates will be determined using current industry standard tables, and will be updated every 5 years after that. The Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance Act of 2017 is supported by the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA), and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW): “DAV strongly supports Rep. Pearce's legislation to update and strengthen VA's Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance (S-DVI) program which will make a real difference for many disabled veterans, their families and survivors. The S-DVI program was designed to provide affordable life insurance coverage to disabled veterans unable to purchase private insurance due to their service connected disabilities, however its cost and benefits have been seriously eroded over the past 50 years. Rep. Pearce's legislation will modernize the S-DVI program by using current actuarial data to lower premiums as well as adjusting for inflation to significantly increase the benefit payout,” stated Garry Augustine, DAV Washington Executive Director. “The Fleet Reserve Association is in complete support of this bill and looks forward to seeing it passed in the House,” stated John Davis, FRA Director of Legislative Programs. “The Veterans of Foreign Wars strongly supports, H.R.4146, the Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance Act of 2017. This important piece of legislation would remedy many of the issues that currently exist with the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program, such as updating the antiquated mortality and annuity tables, increasing the maximum benefit cap, and extending the enrollment eligibility to 10 years,” stated John Towles, VFW Deputy Director. H.R. 4146 is also supported by the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA). ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-move-tax-reform-forward,PEARCE VOTES TO MOVE TAX REFORM FORWARD,2017-10-26,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 26, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today voted in support of the Senate Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Resolution which allows Congress to move forward with tax reform that will help families and create jobs. “The current tax code drives our entire way of life. Whether you’re working to save for retirement, send your kids to college, or expand your small business, all New Mexicans deserve a fairer tax code that works to let them achieve their goals, not hold them back. New Mexico is home to some of the nation’s poorest communities who need more and better jobs. The average New Mexican works hard to provide for themselves or their families. It’s that every day, hard-working person I want to see benefit from tax reform, and that’s exactly why I voted today to pass this budget. Passing this budget allows Congress to move forward on tax reform that can create greater opportunities for people and families in lower-income communities to be raised out of poverty. We’ll see more New Mexican small businesses thrive, more jobs become available, and, ultimately, a more prosperous future for our children and grandchildren. I will continue working with both parties to ensure tax reform provides meaningful tax relief for New Mexico families and local businesses,” stated Rep. Pearce. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/judge-rules-move-lawsuit-against-swwo-forward,JUDGE RULES TO MOVE LAWSUIT AGAINST SWWO FORWARD,2017-10-23,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Albuquerque, NM (October 20, 2017) Last week, Albuquerque District Judge Clay Campbell ruled against a motion filed by Curtis Boyd, owner of Southwestern Women’s Options (SWWO), to dismiss the lawsuit filed by Albuquerque woman, Jessica Duran, which includes the unauthorized harvesting of her infant’s body parts for research at the University of New Mexico (UNM). This ruling will move Duran’s lawsuit forward to a trial by jury. “New Mexico itself has been struggling to uphold the law since an investigation by the U.S. House of Representatives Select Panel on Infant Lives raised serious concerns of ethical and legal violations by the University of New Mexico and the Southwestern Women’s Options. The Panel sent two criminal referrals to the New Mexico Attorney General based on the findings of their investigation. Attorney General Hector Balderas refused to take action,” stated Rep. Pearce. “District Judge Campbell’s decision in this case allows for justice to prevail for the women and unborn children who were affected by these deceiving practices. Human life must be valued, and this decision takes a necessary step toward ensuring human life and the rights of those who cannot speak for themselves are protected.” Background The House Select Investigative Panel on Infant Lives was tasked with discovering information on the medical practices of abortion service providers and procurement practices of organizations who sell baby body part across the nation.  Of the 15 criminal referrals, 2 of them were sent to the New Mexico Attorney General's Office. The final report released by the House Select Investigative Panel on Infant Lives can be found here. On April 20, 2017, New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas stated his office was taking further action to consider the legal violations uncovered at the University of New Mexico, yet no action was taken. On September 5, 2017, Rep. Pearce sent a letter to the United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions to request an investigation into the wrongdoings between the University of New Mexico Health Service Center (UNMHSC) and Southwestern Women’s Options (SWWO). A PDF of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-iran-deal-strategy,PEARCE STATEMENT ON IRAN DEAL STRATEGY,2017-10-16,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 13, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after President Trump announced his new strategy on Iran: “From the beginning, the Iran Deal was a dangerous agreement that acted against the interest of American national security and the safety of our allies in the region. Rather than working to stabilize the region, the Obama Administration made it easier for the Iran regime to further support terrorism. By limiting the terms of the Iran deal to only the nuclear program and ignoring the funding of terrorism, human rights abuses, or Iran’s ballistic missiles program, the previous Administration sacrificed American principles for a temporary gain. Now, we have the opportunity to reverse the tide and negotiate the strongest possible terms with Tehran to not only prevent uranium and nuclear production and development, but stifle the rouge state’s ability to finance and support terror around the world. As Chairman of the Terrorism and Illicit Finance Subcommittee, I understand the important sanctions work the Department of Treasury has done and how it has brought Tehran to the negotiation table. We must capitalize on these great efforts by Treasury, any less would be a missed opportunity. I will continue my work with the Administration to ensure future negotiations take full advantage of the United States’ sanctions ability to curb state-funded terrorism, human rights abuses, and threats to global stability.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-nfip-bailout,PEARCE STATEMENT ON NFIP BAILOUT,2017-10-16,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 13, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after voting against a House Amendment to Senate Amendment to H.R. 2266, the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act. This amendment allows the federal government to borrow money to provide additional funds for emergency relief while bailing out the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): “Around the nation, individuals and families are working to recover and rebuild from disastrous hurricanes, and thousands more continue to be impacted by devastating wildfires in California. Congress has the responsibility to aid in the recovery by providing emergency disaster funding – no one can disagree with this charge or with the need. If the amendment simply ensured the communities hardest hit have the money needed to recover, I would have easily supported it, as I did a couple weeks ago for the last emergency aid funding bill. However, yesterday’s action was an attempt to play politics with emergency relief funds and ignore billions of dollars in federal debt. After each hurricane season, the NFIP continues to dive deeper into debt with no foreseeable avenue to solvency. Following both Katrina and Sandy, the federal government was forced to expand the NFIP’s borrowing authority by billions. Superstorm Sandy increased the authority by $9 billion alone. Reverting to debt forgiveness now is not the solution, fundamental changes to the program are the only option. Instead of doing our job and reforming the program to an effective system that actually supports the American families who use it, Congress opted to forgive $16 billion of the NFIP’s debt. Bailing out NFIP without asking for vital changes only does a disservice to those families who rely on it in the worst of circumstances. To truly support our friends, families, and neighbors impacted by natural disaster we should ensure the insurance programs we have in place will actually work for them. Not just bail the program out and turn a blind eye."" Background This Amendment provides the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with $18.7 billion, $577 million for wildfire relief, $16 billion to bailout NFIP, and $1.3 billion for Disaster Nutrition Assistance to Puerto Rico. On September 6, 2017, Rep. Pearce voted to pass emergency aid funding for the communities affected by Hurricane Harvey and, at the time, for the potential impacts of Hurricane Irma. On September 8, 2017, Rep. Pearce voted against the spending package that irresponsibly tacked on an extension of the debt limit and a Continuing Resolution to provide disaster relief funds for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-introduces-bill-support-veterans-choice-program,PEARCE INTRODUCES BILL TO SUPPORT VETERANS CHOICE PROGRAM,2017-10-12,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 12, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today introduced H.R. 4031, Beneficiary Travel Act of 2017, to bolster the Veterans Choice Program, which provides services to millions of veterans in rural communities across the nation. “As a veteran, I strongly support cutting government red tape that prevents our nation’s former service members from receiving the quality and timely care they deserve. Our veterans sacrificed so much in defense of our freedoms and liberties, and we must honor our commitments to them. I’ve personally experienced the unique challenges that veterans in rural communities face and how difficult it can be to receive the specific care needed,” stated Rep. Pearce. “We’ve made a promise to these veterans that cannot be broken. My legislation will continue to innovate veterans’ care by making improvements to the CHOICE program. This bill is a step in the right direction for deconstructing the barriers within the VA that affects rural veterans. I will continue to stand by my promise to the men and women in New Mexico, and across the nation, who bravely stepped up to serve and protect our nation.” Background Beneficiary Travel (BT) is a program that provides eligible veterans with reimbursements for travel between VA Health Care facilities or VA approved, non-VA Health Care facilities. In 2016, roughly $1 billion was spent on reimbursements according to the VA. As it stands, VA facilities are able to direct unused BT funds to other medical services without oversight. In 2014, Congress passed the Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act (VACAA) to improve wait times for veterans receiving medical services after the VA Office of Inspector General released a report that cited roughly 120,000 veterans were awaiting their appointments for more than 30 days. As a result, the Veterans Choice Program (VCP) was created, which provided better service and flexibility to veterans trying to receive medical care. Veterans are eligible to enroll if they reside more than 40 miles from a VA medical facility or if their closest traditional VA facilities’ wait-times exceed 30 days. Since its enactment in 2014, more than 3.22 million veterans have enrolled in VCP and that number is expected to increase with nearly 8 million veterans eligible. In August 2017, the House passed the VA Choice and Quality Employment Act to appropriate an additional $2.1 billion to the VCP, preventing the complete depletion of funds. H.R. 4031 will require the Secretary of the VA to submit an annual report to Congress on BT payments. Any BT funds not used based on this report will be reallocated into VCP. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-president-trump%E2%80%99s-healthcare-order,PEARCE STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMPS HEALTHCARE ORDER,2017-10-12,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 12, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after President Trump signed an Executive Order to promote healthcare choice and competition: “Obamacare is in the process of completely collapsing, with premiums at all-time highs and double-digit hikes expected for 2018 in New Mexico. Today’s Executive Order directs agencies to develop policies that allow members of trade associations and small businesses to join together to purchase insurance plans as a group. This administrative change will increase flexibility and choice while lowering the cost of insurance plans, allowing each group to find solutions that fit their needs.   People in New Mexico and across the nation are facing major decisions with their healthcare, with many are seeing reduced options and increased prices. Some individuals are even being forced to end their coverage, opting to pay a penalty, because costs are so high. A one-size-fits-all, federally driven system has failed to provide States and individual entities with the ability to choose. More than anything, I want New Mexico to have opportunities to thrive, and a part of rebuilding includes fixing the system so that choice, access, and freedom are once again the priority. I look forward to continuing my work to lower costs and increase options for New Mexicans.” Background Today’s Executive Order directs the Secretaries of the Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Treasury, and Labor to consider revising regulations to expand short-term limited duration insurance (STLDI), Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), and Association Health Plans respectively. Each Secretary has 180 days to evaluate and report back to the President on recommendations to expand choice and increase competition in healthcare markets. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-us-must-honor-commitments-veterans,PEARCE: U.S. MUST HONOR COMMITMENTS TO VETERANS,2017-10-11,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 11, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement on the Senate passed Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which includes a section that increases out-of-pocket costs for veterans on TRICARE by eliminating the grandfather clause currently in place: “America’s veterans and their families have sacrificed greatly to defend our freedoms and preserve democracy. The very least we can do is to uphold and honor our nation’s commitment to provide veterans with the benefits they have been promised. Any changes, including fee increases, must be made for the next generation of military personnel. Veterans and those currently serving should not be blindsided by new requirements and fees at the hand of government mismanagement. Not only does this ensure our military has the time and ability to plan for the future, but it ensures that as a nation, we remain committed to standing by the brave men and women who answer the call of duty. Supporting and honoring our military is not something our nation has always done. As a congressional body, and as a nation, we can never again revert to a place where we do not stand behind and show our thanks for all that our service members do so that we can live free and safe.” Background In December 2016, both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate passed the National Defense Authorizations Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2017, which only increased TRICARE benefits for retirees, service members, and their families that join the service after January 2018. Current service members and retirees were grandfathered into the old system, making them exempt from increased costs. In July 2017, House passed the National Defense Authorizations Act (NDAA) for FY2018 with Rep. Pearce’s support. This version did not include provisions that would affect the TRICARE grandfathering clause. In September 2017, the Senate passed the NDAA for FY2018 with the addition of Section 707, which eliminates the grandfather clause, no longer exempting current military retirees, current service members, and their families from increasing healthcare costs. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-it%E2%80%99s-job-congress-not-president,"PEARCE: ITS THE JOB OF CONGRESS, NOT THE PRESIDENT",2017-10-10,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 9, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement President Trump announced his immigration principles and priorities: “We in New Mexico know firsthand the challenges that come with a broken and outdated immigration system. Previous Administrations continuously sidestepped Congress by ordering harmful, temporary patchwork solutions without thinking about the long-term affects. It is the job of Congress, not the President, to make legal reforms to our immigration policies. I look forward to Congress working with the Administration to ensure the rule of law and Constitution are upheld as we come together to protect our nation’s security and economy from vulnerabilities and loopholes entwined in our immigration system. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure fairness, justice, and family unity prevail, and will fight for permanent changes so future generations do not face the same challenges and burdens.”   Background On October 8, 2017, the Trump Administration sent Congress immigration policy priorities outlining three immigration policy objectives: border security, interior enforcement, and merit-based immigration system. The overall objective by the Administration is to ensure safe and lawful admissions into the United States, defend safety and security of U.S. citizens, and protect American taxpayers. In September 2017, the Administration announced their plan to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program in March 2018, giving Congress six months to provide a long-term solution. Read Rep. Pearce’s full statement here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-supports-epa-decision-clean-power-plan,PEARCE SUPPORTS EPA DECISION ON CLEAN POWER PLAN,2017-10-10,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 10, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to repeal the Clean Power Plan (CPP).  “In New Mexico, and across the country, we’ve seen businesses close up shop and coal miners put out of work due to the crippling regulatory costs of this rule. With EPA’s action today, power will be given back to the states so that economies, like ours in New Mexico, can grow stronger and more competitive. This is real progress towards ending the War on Coal, which has crushed jobs and increased energy costs in our local communities,” stated Rep. Pearce. Rep. Pearce continued to state, “New Mexicans deserve reliable and affordable energy without job-killing restrictions that cripple economic opportunity in our state and across the nation. As a leader in the production and development of energy resources, New Mexico’s economic success relies on having the freedom and room to grow. Eliminating the Clean Power Plan cuts government red tape and eliminates unnecessary regulations so we can move closer to an ‘all the above’ energy plan that creates jobs and sustains low energy prices for all Americans.” Background In February 2016, the U.S. Supreme Court determined that the EPA, under the Obama Administration, exceeded its statutory authority by enacting the CPP in attempts to severely limit carbon emissions from U.S. power plants. In March 2017, President Trump signed the Energy Independence Executive Order to encourage greater domestic energy production and development. Today’s action to repeal the CPP will reduce unnecessary regulations and burdens that hindered the development of energy resources across the nation. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-greets-new-mexico-honor-flight,PEARCE GREETS NEW MEXICO HONOR FLIGHT,2017-10-06,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 6, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today greeted southern New Mexico veterans during their visit to the World War II Memorial in our nation’s capital. The veterans’ trip was sponsored by Honor Flight of Southern New Mexico, an organization that honors America’s war veterans and their sacrifices by taking them on a trip to Washington, D.C. to see their memorials. “New Mexico has a long, proud history of military service and I’m incredibly honored to have been able to welcome them to their monuments, shake their hands, thank them for their service, and listen to their stories. These memorials offer veterans an opportunity to pause and reflect on what their service really meant to our nation. It was a humbling experience to be surrounded by these incredible men and women who served and sacrificed to defend our country and the freedoms we’re lucky to have today. I also want to thank Honor Flight of Southern New Mexico and the volunteers for ensuring these veterans had the opportunity make this trip,” stated Rep. Pearce. Click here to view photos from today’s honor flight visit to the World War II Memorial. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-fy18-budget-pearce-support,HOUSE PASSES FY18 BUDGET WITH PEARCE SUPPORT,2017-10-05,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 4, 2017) The U.S. House of Representatives today voted and passed H. Con. Res. 71, the Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Resolution, to set overall discretionary spending levels for FY2018, balance the budget, and provide a pathway forward for tax reform. “Our nation’s budget has spiraled out of control and without significantly changing course, we are slated to leave an unsurmountable debt with our children and grandchildren. Just as families have to sit around the kitchen table and balance their budgets each year, so should the federal government. While not perfect, today’s plan aims to balance the nation’s budget by cutting irresponsible spending and government red tape to unleash our full potential. Passing this budget also moves us one step closer towards reforming our nation’s antiquated tax code to help people, families, and businesses in New Mexico succeed. I’ve been hearing from people in New Mexico – small business owners, senior citizens, mothers, fathers – who are tired of dealing with an overly burdensome and complicated tax code that takes their hard-earned money and puts undue stress on their shoulders. The reforms this budget helps move forward will level the playing field so that middle- and working-class folks become the priority, small businesses will again be able to strengthen our local economies, and more jobs and revenues will return to the United States, helping to fund our schools, hospitals, roads, and other critical funding projects. Today’s budget furthers Congress’ commitment to strengthening our nation’s military, ensuring the men and women who step up to serve have the proper training, resources, and overall ability to complete their missions. We cannot expect our nation’s military to defend against ever-evolving threats without the modernization of equipment and resources needed to achieve effective military operations. We can no longer expect our nation’s most vulnerable to carry the weight of our debt and spending on their backs. All New Mexicans deserve to have the resources to succeed, and I will continue working in Congress and with local communities for the future of our great state and nation,” stated Rep. Pearce. Background H. Con. Res. 71 sets FY18 overall discretionary spending at $1.132 trillion, with $621.5 billion for defense discretionary and $511 billion for non-defense discretionary. This legislation also provides guidance to the Ways and Means Committee for moving forward on tax reform. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-announces-2017-congressional-app-challenge,PEARCE ANNOUNCES 2017 CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE,2017-10-04,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 4, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce announces the 2017 Congressional App Challenge, a competition encouraging students to get involved in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activities. Students will compete by creating and exhibiting a software application, or “app,” for mobile, tablet or computer devices. All students K-12 in New Mexico's Second Congressional District are encouraged to participate, even if they've never coded before. “New Mexico is home to some of the nation’s premier STEM research and development facilities. As a State, we must be doing all we can to assist and encourage the next generation to continue to lead in these fields. For the future success of our State and our children, young New Mexicans must become more involved in STEM education. The Congressional App Challenge is a unique and engaging way to encourage STEM participation. I hope schools throughout the District take advantage of this opportunity. It is a wonderful way to empower the youth of our State to create and develop new technology,” stated Rep. Pearce. Students who wish to participate must sign up and submit their app with demonstration video by 12:00 PM ET on November 1, 2017. There is no minimum age, however, students must not have graduated from high school to participate. Students can compete individually or in teams of up to four. Read more about the rules, eligibility, and how to participate here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-protect-sanctity-life,PEARCE VOTES TO PROTECT THE SANCTITY OF LIFE,2017-10-03,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (October 3, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the House of Representatives voted and passed H.R. 36, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. This bill seeks to protect unborn children who are 20 weeks or older: “Today’s bill is something we as Americans can unite together around. We have scientific proof that an unborn child at 20 weeks into a pregnancy – the end of the 5th month – has the capability to feel pain. I cannot sit back and allow this brutal act to continue. This is about protecting the lives of children who have a heartbeat and can feel. This is about the right to life. As an elected official, it is my duty to protect the rights and liberties of all New Mexicans, and today, I feel I did just that. I’m proud to have co-sponsored this crucial piece of legislation, and will continue to stand up for the sanctity of life, New Mexican values, and the rights of those who cannot protect themselves,” stated Rep. Pearce. “Today’s legislation also comes at a time when New Mexico itself has been struggling to uphold the law since an investigation by the U.S. House of Representatives Select Panel on Infant Lives issued two criminal referrals to New Mexico’s Attorney General after uncovering multiple instances of criminal misconduct and violations occurred between University of New Mexico and Southwestern Women’s Options. New Mexico’s Attorney General has yet to act on either of the two criminal referrals,” stated Rep. Pearce. “Human life must be valued. This bill today takes a huge and necessary step toward avoiding future pain and suffering by mothers and children.” Background Medical evidence has proven that by week 20, the end of the 5th month, unborn children feel pain. H.R. 36 protects pain-capable unborn children while containing a life-of-the-mother exception that allows late-term abortions in the event that it would save the mother’s life. This bill also has exceptions for cases of rape and incest. In September 2017, Rep. Pearce sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to request an investigation into the wrongdoings between the University of New Mexico Health Service Center (UNMHSC) and Southwestern Women’s Options (SWWO), a late-term abortion clinic in New Mexico. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/icymi-pearce-re-introduces-bipartisan-native-american-housing-bill,ICYMI: PEARCE RE-INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING BILL,2017-09-29,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 29, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce yesterday introduced H.R. 3864, the reauthorization of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA), to increase access to safe and affordable housing for Native Americans across the nation. Original co-sponsors of this bipartisan legislation include U.S. Representatives Gwen Moore (D-WI), Don Young (R-AK), Rick Nolan (D-MN), Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), Colleen Hanabusa (D-HI), Denny Heck (D-WA), Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK), and Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN). NAHASDA was first signed into law in 1996 to make housing assistance directly available to tribes through the Indian Housing Block Grant program. The program works to increase and strengthen the tribal authority and autonomy in housing development, construction, and management. The following tribes and organizations in New Mexico and across the nation have come out in support of Rep. Pearce’s legislation to improve economic opportunities and quality of life for Native Americans: National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC_ Chairwoman Sami Jo Difuntorum: “The National American Indian Housing Council appreciates the work of Congressman Pearce, Senator Udall, and all the cosponsors of the companion NAHASDA bills. Since 1996 NAHASDA has allowed tribes to take control of housing development in their communities, and these bills include vital improvements to the program.  NAIHC stands ready to work with the sponsors and other members of Congress to move the bills through the House and Senate as quickly as possible.” Cherokee Nation Secretary of State Cuck Hoskin, Jr.: ""For the past 20 years NAHASDA funding has improved housing conditions for countless Cherokee Nation tribal citizens, allowing many to become first time homeowners and assisted college students and elders with affordable living so that all across Indian Country Cherokees have more equity and opportunity,” Secretary of State Chuck Hoskin Jr. said. “Housing Assistance for tribes through a reauthorization is a step in the right direction to continue this important legacy, and one that members from both sides of the aisle have traditionally supported.” Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation Executive Director Gary J. Cooper: ""NAHASDA has changed, in a positive way, the delivery system of housing within Indian Country by allowing tribes to determine the best way to deliver services to their people.  Today, the Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation assists more than 6,500 eligible Native American families with varying needs of housing assistance.  We fully use those dollars to provide decent, safe, sanitary and affordable housing.  We have a long way to go to meet all the housing needs within the Cherokee Nation, but reauthorizing NAHASDA helps us tremendously.  We stand ready to work in support of reauthorization of NAHASDA, and these bills which make significant improvements to the way we are able to deliver housing assistance.  I can tell you, the Housing Needs Assessment released earlier this year can quantify it, and any trip to Indian Country will prove evident the overall need of housing, and how vital NAHASDA dollars are to making an impact. The Cherokee Nation has been good stewards of NAHASDA spending and will continue in that tradition if reauthorized."" Pueblo of Santa Ana Governor Lawrence Montoya: ""We are thankful to Congressman Pearce for leading the effort to reauthorize the Native American Housing and Self-Determination Act.  NAHASDA is the primary means by which Indian tribes and the federal government work collectively towards addressing the critical housing need for Native American families.""  Governor Montoya added, ""a safe home is a primary need of all human beings to live a dignified life.  Pueblo housing, as is evident throughout New Mexico, for centuries has been at the core of Pueblo community experience.  NAHASDA provides the means by which Indian families can live in dignity. Congressman Pearce has spent a lot of time working with Native communities to develop this legislation, which will improve the quality of Indian housing in the coming years."" All Pueblo Council of Governors Chairman E. Paul Torres: “Access to affordable, safe housing is the foundation for strong families, communities, and economies.  Tribal governments have the responsibility to ensure that safe and affordable housing is available to our members and their families.  Many tribes depend on assistance provided through the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act, or NAHASDA, program to help address the critical housing needs that imperil our tribal communities. For years Native American communities in New Mexico and throughout the nation have been working to address problems associated with substandard housing and inadequate utility services, and we applaud Congressman Pearce for his strong support of the NAHASDA program. Reauthorization of NAHASDA will help provide tribes with the resources and flexibility to meet our unique housing challenges and improve our communities.  On behalf of the New Mexico’s Pueblos, I thank Congressman Pearce for his unwavering efforts on behalf of tribes.” Letters of support were also written by Native Village of Barrow Housing Director Samuel Okakok, Karuk Tribe Housing Authority Executive Director Sara Spence, and Pueblo of Acoma Housing Authority Executive Director Floyd Tortalita. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-re-introduces-native-american-housing-bill,PEARCE RE-INTRODUCES NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING BILL,2017-09-28,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 28, 2017) U.S. Representatives Steve Pearce (R-NM) along with U.S. Representatives Gwen Moore (D-WI), Don Young (R-AK), Rick Nolan (D-MN), Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), Colleen Hanabusa (D-HI), Denny Heck (D-WA), Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK), and Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN) introduced H.R. 3864, the reauthorization of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA), to increase access to safe and affordable housing for Native Americans across the nation. “Prosperity and opportunity have eluded Native American families on tribal lands for too long. From increased access to quality housing, to lease-to-own programs aimed at providing rural tribes with the resources and flexibility to develop modern communities, NAHASDA assists tribes in meeting the unique housing challenges of each community with independence and self-choice. These reforms provide faster approval of projects, allowing tribes to focus on economic development and innovation rather than administrative processes. The bill also reduces inefficiencies within government spending, and ultimately aids some of the most vulnerable communities in our country with real opportunity to improve. I thank my colleagues in the House and Senate who have worked with me in a truly bipartisan, bicameral effort to reduce the burden on tribes and expand opportunity in Native American housing. By working across the aisle and with tribal leaders nationwide, we are helping to lay the foundation for real, concrete reforms needed in tribal communities,” stated Rep. Pearce. “As a former welfare recipient, I know firsthand the critical role safe and affordable housing plays in breaking the cycle of poverty. With Native Americans representing some of the poorest and most remote communities in the United States, it is vital that Tribal governments have the autonomy to provide affordable housing to their constituents. The bipartisan reintroduction of NAHASDA – done in consultation with Tribal stakeholders – not only affirms this irrefutable concept, but also underscores the imperative to expand economic opportunities for Native Americans while recognizing and appreciating their Tribal sovereignty,” stated Rep. Moore. “NAHASDA is a fundamental component of upholding the federal trust responsibility to American Indians and Alaska Natives. The housing programs it supports have a proven track record of success, although tremendous needs still exist in Native communities across the country,” stated Rep. Young. “Today’s introduction reflects over six years of work with tribes and Native organizations to develop the best approach for reauthorizing NAHASDA and combating some of the worst housing conditions in the nation.  It’s about damn time that Indian country is able to benefit from these much needed and long overdue policy improvements, and I look forward to working with my fellow cosponsors to once again move this bill towards final passage.” ""This legislation marks an important step forward in addressing unsafe, overcrowded, substandard housing conditions across Indian Country,"" stated Rep. Nolan. ""Moreover, our measure recognizes and respects the importance of tribal sovereignty by empowering tribes to take the lead in removing barriers to safe and affordable housing and fostering healthy families and communities."" “Reauthorizing NAHASDA is critical to fulfill our nation’s trust responsibility to Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Safe, secure, and affordable housing is essential to the wellbeing of our country’s native people which leads to better health, education, and economic outcomes that strengthen native communities,” stated Rep. Gabbard. “In Hawaii, almost 30 percent of the homeless population is comprised of Native Hawaiians – a statistic that is far too high in the most prosperous country in the world. Reauthorizing NAHASDA provides needed financial support to native communities in Hawaii and across the country. We must continue to fight for the programs that will improve housing and wellness resources for Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians communities throughout the country.” “Congress must fulfill its responsibility to protect and improve the lives of all our Native populations, many of whom live in the poorest of conditions in this country.  The funding and reforms this bill provides will assist low-income Native individuals and families, including Native Hawaiians of my home state, Hawaii, construct and obtain adequate housing instrumental to an improved quality of life for this and future generations to come.  This legislation is the result of hard work by many, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on the passage of this critical bill,” stated Rep. Hanabusa. “Native tribes and communities work hard to ensure their members have access to housing, and it’s essential we do all we can to assist them in meeting their needs. Congress should uphold its commitments to Indian Country by reauthorizing NAHASDA. I’m proud to work alongside my colleagues who are focused on this issue that’s so important to Washington’s 29 tribal nations,” stated Rep. Heck. “I’d like to thank Congressman Pearce for bringing this legislation forward. He is one of the strongest advocates in the House for decent housing opportunities for Native Americans. Once again, Congressman Pearce has authored legislation which is good for Native Americans and good for the U.S. taxpayer. I look forward to working with him to pass this bill,” stated Rep. Cole. “Native communities face some of the worst housing conditions and greatest economic challenges in our nation. For more than 20 years, the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act has helped address this problem by allowing tribal nations to take the lead in developing their own housing for low-income Indian families,” stated Rep. McCollum. “This bipartisan bill to reauthorize NAHASDA will help us to better fulfill our federal treaty responsibility to support safe and affordable housing development throughout Indian Country.” In addition to the introduction today in the House, U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-NM), vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, introduced companion language in the Senate. ""NAHASDA has a long history of bipartisan support, and I am pleased we are making progress on bipartisan, bicameral legislation to reauthorize this critical law, which has been held up for too long,” stated Sen. Udall. “Safe, well-built housing is a fundamental necessity for building strong, healthy communities, and this legislation will help ensure Tribal communities have quality housing while also driving further investments into Indian Country. Given the housing crisis in all of Indian Country, we must do all we can to make sure NAHASDA is fully authorized for all Native communities. I look forward to working with Congressman Pearce and my House and Senate colleagues to see this bill passed and signed into law.” In 1996, NAHASDA was first signed into law to make housing assistance directly available to tribes through the Indian Housing Block Grant program. The program works to increase and strengthen the relationship between Indian tribes and the federal government. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-faa-extension-disaster-tax-provisions,"PEARCE VOTES FOR FAA EXTENSION, DISASTER TAX PROVISIONS",2017-09-28,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 28, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted and passed H.R. 3823, the Disaster Tax Relief and Airport and Airway Extension Act, to provide disaster relief funding through tax provisions for people and families affected by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, and to provide a 6-month extension for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): “As a pilot, I’ve time and again seen how the flaws entwined in the management and operations at the FAA have hindered efficiency and effectiveness. Congress has been working diligently to reform processes so that the FAA has the resources to improve infrastructure and the air traffic control system. Today’s bill extends the FAA’s funding for 6-months to provide the necessary time to accomplish the goal of cutting government red tape to bring the FAA into the 21st Century. I will continue working with my colleagues in Congress and the aviation industry to support air safety regulations and transportation opportunities that provide millions of jobs to people in New Mexico and across the nation,” stated Rep. Pearce. Rep. Pearce continued to state, “today’s bill also helps the recovery efforts for communities recently devastated by Hurricanes that left people and families without their homes, cars, and other personal possessions. Many people are having to turn to their retirement funds as their only source of available money to replace and rebuild what they’ve lost. Now is not the time for politics, but time for our nation to come together to help people and families get back on their feet as they go through this distressful time.” H.R. 3823 extends the authorization of the FAA through March 31, 2018. It also provides emergency funding for people affected by hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria through tax credits and deductions. Additionally, the 10% penalty for early distributions from retirement accounts is waived for people in these affected areas. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-tax-reform-plan-strengthens-new-mexico-businesses-families,"PEARCE: TAX REFORM PLAN STRENGTHENS NEW MEXICO BUSINESSES, FAMILIES",2017-09-27,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 27, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the Republicans introduced their plan to reform America’s tax code: “Small businesses are the cornerstone and families are the backbone of our state. For too long, our nation’s complex, antiquated, and one-sided tax code has caused stress, undue burden, and hard-earned money to ensure compliance. This is simply wrong, and must change not only for the success of our communities, but for the success of New Mexico and the nation. The tax framework released today has the potential to finally bring the relief that has long been needed. Done right, it will strengthen the middle-class and working-class, ease the burden and stress on families, make small businesses a priority, and put America back on the competitive global playing field. This framework simplifies the tax code for businesses, doubles the amount families and individuals are able to deduct, and has the potential to lower rate for individuals and families throughout the nation with a straightforward tax rate. These changes will allow everyday middle-class families to spend less on taxes and tax preparation allowing those hard-earned dollars to be saved and used where needed. Even more, this framework will help businesses expand, but also allow them to create jobs in communities with desperate for growth and services. New Mexicans have struggled long enough to find good-paying jobs and deserve to keep more of their hard-earned money. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the Administration to reform America’s tax code to make New Mexican businesses and families a priority.” Background To accomplish these tax goals for businesses, the plan restructures the maximum tax rate for small, family-owned businesses to 25% and reduces the corporate tax rate to 20%. It also contains additional business deductions and credits to incentivize domestic manufacturing and production, with a new marginal rate at the lowest we’ve seen it in nearly 80 years. Click here to view the full tax reform blueprint. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-support-families-low-income-communities-throughout-new-mexico,PEARCE VOTES TO SUPPORT FAMILIES IN LOW-INCOME COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT NEW MEXICO,2017-09-26,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 26, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today voted to pass H.R. 2824, the Increasing Opportunity and Success for Children and Parents through Evidence-Based Home Visiting Act, which extends the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Visiting (MIECHV) Program through 2022. This program provides grant funds to states, territories, and tribes for health, social, and child development services to families. “The MIECHV program offers vital services to families, parents, and tribes in some of the most vulnerable communities throughout New Mexico. Our state is home to many rural and low-income neighborhoods who rely on these early childhood development and parenting services, and often don’t have other options to turn to. I’m pleased to see this bill pass today in the House to guarantee underserved populations in New Mexico and across the nation can have continued access to these important family services,” stated Rep. Pearce. H.R. 2824 will continue the $400 million mandatory funding level for MIECHV and requires the States to provide additional funds to home visitation programs beginning in 2020. An amendment by Rep. Suzane DelBene (WA-01) passed the House Floor to eliminate the match requirement for Native American Tribes, as this would have large implications on their ability to utilize the program. H.R. 2824 passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a 214-209 vote. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-supports-bringing-back-new-mexico-jobs-manufacturing,"PEARCE SUPPORTS BRINGING BACK NEW MEXICO JOBS, MANUFACTURING",2017-09-22,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 22, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the International Trade Commission (ITC) determined that U.S. solar manufacturers are being harmed by imports:  “Today’s decision by the ITC confirms that foreign solar manufacturers are being put above American jobs and producers. For years, foreign solar dumping of low cost panels and products has put U.S. manufacturers out of business, eliminating good-paying jobs and revenues in New Mexico and across the country. New Mexico has great potential to become a major hub in the U.S. for solar manufacturers and producers, however, pressure put on manufacturers by low-cost imports has forced many companies to go out of business. Schott Solar, an Albuquerque based company was living proof of this. They were forced to close up shop because they couldn’t keep pace with the low market price for solar panels and products, laying off nearly 250 employees in Albuquerque. I’ve always supported an ‘all the above’ energy plan that unleashes America’s domestic energy production while developing greener sources of energy including wind, solar, and nuclear power. By implementing an import tariff on these companies, New Mexico could once again become a power player in the nation’s solar energy production, stimulating job growth and bringing in greater revenues that the state desperately needs.” Background In 2012, Schott Solar PV Inc. closed down their manufacturing plant in south Albuquerque, laying off 250 employees according to the Albuquerque Journal.     ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/new-mexico-delegation-encourages-boeing-conduct-phantom-express-development-contract,"NEW MEXICO DELEGATION ENCOURAGES BOEING TO CONDUCT PHANTOM EXPRESS DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT AT SPA, WSMR",2017-09-21,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 21, 2017) Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Steve Pearce, Ben Ray Luján, and Michelle Lujan Grisham, and U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich encouraged Boeing to conduct the Phantom Express development contract at Spaceport America (SPA) with support of White Sands Missile Range (WSMR). “New Mexico offers a number of strategic advantages for Boeing’s spaceplane contract, and I’m confident that a partnership with Spaceport America and White Sands Missile Range will lead to the successful completion of this program. These sites have the necessary infrastructure in place, including access to essential technologies, an able and ready workforce, incomparable access to airspace, and other testing capabilities to support operations and our nation’s security interests,” said Rep. Pearce. “New Mexico has unique geographic benefits that will allow it to continue to grow as an exemplary location for training and testing projects going forward. In addition, New Mexico has a long history in the space sector, including NASA’s White Sands division which has supported every U.S. manned space mission to date. As Boeing moves forward in their scoping phase, it is my hope that they will seriously consider New Mexico to home their new spaceplane project. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the New Mexico delegation, local governments, and necessary agencies to advance the commercial space sector.” “As we noted in our letter, there are a number of advantages that New Mexico offers as Boeing looks for the optimal site for this project – ideal flying weather, unhindered airspace, and proven long-term relationships with national labs and other national security initiatives in our state,” said Rep. Ben Ray Luján. “Boeing already has a significant presence and investment in New Mexico with its directed energy and space research,"" Rep. Michelle Lujan Grisham said. ""I encourage Boeing to build on those investments and make New Mexico a central part of its aerospace strategy. This is exactly the type of investment we need to help jump-start and create a sustainable economy.” “New Mexico’s restricted airspace, technical workforce, decades of experience working with NASA, and the inland location of the Spaceport make it the ideal location for Boeing to conduct the Phantom Express development contract,” Senator Udall said. “Boeing’s XS-1 is well prepared to take advantage of the first mile above sea level with a reusable launch proposal well suited for New Mexico’s spaceport. Our nation has a need to continue to develop strategic inland space launch capabilities, and a partnership between Boeing, White Sands Missile Range and Spaceport America would support both our national security and the growth and development of commercial space. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with the delegation, our federal agencies, the state and local governments on this project and other efforts to strengthen our national security and New Mexico’s vital federal installations.” “Our state has long been the frontier of space exploration. With assets such as Spaceport America, our national laboratories, and innovative research universities, New Mexico is uniquely positioned to help propel the commercial space industry forward,” said Senator Heinrich. “As Boeing continues the scoping process, I hope they will consider New Mexico as a partner and destination for its Phantom Express development contract.  I will continue to support efforts that strengthen commercial spaceflight industry in New Mexico, and create jobs and bolster our economy.” Boeing was awarded the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) XS-1 Spaceplane Contract that has been named the “Phantom Express.” This is a joint P3 with DARPA and Boeing with the purpose of developing a reusable space aircraft that can deploy medium payload for a cheaper cost. Currently, Boeing is in the scoping phase for deciding a primary site for the XS-1 program. A PDF of the letter can be found here. Text is below. Steven P. Johnston Director – Launch, Phantom Works The Boeing Company 5301 Bolsa Ave Huntington Beach, CA 92647 Dear Steven Johnston, Congratulations on being awarded the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) XS-1 spaceplane contract. We are confident that your aerospace experience combined with support from key agencies will lead to successful completion of this program, which will improve our National Security and the commercial space sector. We understand that you are in final deliberations for selecting a site to execute this contract. We strongly encourage you to consider developing a partnership with White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) and Spaceport America (SPA) to support this important venture for our Nation. The SPA facility in New Mexico has a number of strategic advantages, which include: Restricted airspace over WSMR/SPA, which is controlled by the Department of Defense (DOD), has 24/7 space access. This factor alone goes a long way towards achieving the strenuous ten flights in ten days stipulation in the contract. The restricted airspace coupled with an ideal flying environment (340+ days of clear skies) and high altitude at WSMR/SPA will minimize scheduling delays compared to any other location in the country. The technical workforce at WSMR has a tremendous legacy of supporting complex DARPA Research Development Testing and Evaluation (RDT&E) efforts for our military. Their positive attitude, range experience on developmental programs, along with SPA support will be a force multiplier that is uniquely suited to ensure your success. WSMR recently conducted an Expected Casualties and Probability of Casualty (Ec/Pc) assessment that is well within the required Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) parameters to successfully launch the thirteenth and final demonstration flight of an orbital payload to Low Earth Orbit. Their experience with long range, off range, and hypersonic corridors is ideal for continued programs after Phantom Express development is complete. Their studies include multiple corridors for most orbital inclinations including polar. WSMR has had a sixty plus year relationship with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), whom currently operates a 1,000 person team out of one of its testing facility. NASA’s satellite installation develops and tests space technologies for propulsion systems. The division also aids in industrial firms RDTE, giving organizations a cost efficient option for testing and developing space technologies. Strategically our nation is in need of an inland Spaceport for multiple reasons. There are security perspectives as we move forward in time that will require an inland location. Spaceport America’s location provides unique DOD connections for operationally responsive space initiatives and other critical missions important to our nation’s space capabilities and ultimately our operational success. From a resiliency perspective, we believe strongly that our nation needs to obtain strategic inland space launch capabilities and are confident that your organization would greatly benefit from this type of joint venture. We are committed to working with various federal agencies and the commercial sector to ensure that the billions of dollars that have been spent at WSMR, SPA, and the surrounding area are leveraged to support our National Security interests such as the XS-1 spaceplane and other commercial space enterprises. We understand that there will be a strong commercial application for the Phantom Express. There are many advantages to operating at a site with ideal flying weather that is a mile above sea level, and provides unhindered airspace access for your projected commercial tempo. We sincerely hope you decide to conduct the Phantom Express development contract at SPA with the support of WSMR. We believe this is the best strategic decision for your long-term space success. We look forward to hearing back from you and to assist you in any way possible as you come to a final decision.      Sincerely, U.S. Representative Steve Pearce U.S. Representative Ben Ray Lujan U.S. Representative Michelle Lujan Grisham U.S. Senator Tom Udall U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich   ### Contacts: Keeley Christensen (Pearce) 202.329.2862 / Joe Shoemaker (Luján) 202.225.6190 / Gilbert Gallegos (Lujan Grisham) 202.225.6316 / Jennifer Talhelm (Udall) 202.228.6870 / Whitney Potter (Heinrich) 202.228.1578",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/doe-announces-wipp-contract-extension,DOE ANNOUNCES WIPP CONTRACT EXTENSION,2017-09-19,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 15, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the Department of Energy (DOE)announced a three-year extension to the AECOM Management and Operations Contract for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in Carlsbad, NM: “WIPP is a major contributor to the Carlsbad economy and plays a critical role in our nation’s security. The site's success does not come from the company who manages, but rather the community that supports it, and the dedicated employees who work daily to make this one-of-a-kind facility successful. AECOM’s management has not come without its challenges, however, in recent years they have taken a number of steps to instill a management and operations style that has allowed WIPP to recover quickly and most importantly safely. With this extension, WIPP will be able to continue to move towards full operations, and work to complete the new exhaust shaft without the potential delays and uncertainty that comes with the contract bidding process. It is crucial to WIPP and our national security that these improvements are made without delay. I expect AECOM to continue to work on its communication and management with the site, the community, and elected officials. Now is not the time to become complacent or fall into old habits,"" stated Rep. Pearce.  On April 20, 2012, the Nuclear Waste Partnership LLC, an AECOM-led entity, was awarded the Management and Operations Contract. This contract is scheduled to expire ‪on September 30, 2017. The DOE has extended NWP’s contract ‪until September 30, 2020 with the option to extend another 2 years after that. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/interior-recommendation-falls-short,INTERIOR RECOMMENDATION FALLS SHORT,2017-09-19,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (September 18, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the White House made public Secretary Ryan Zinke’s national monument review, which included recommendations for both the Organ Mountains Desert Peak National Monument and the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument in New Mexico. ""Secretary Zinke's recommendation fails to provide the solutions New Mexico needs. Since 2008, I have been working with the local community to establish a compromise that protects the Organ Mountains Desert Peak National Monument (OMDP) while preserving the multiple uses that public lands provide. By designating this monument under the Antiquities Act, the Obama Administration ignored this work and created an overly burdensome and harmful footprint – roughly 500,000 acres extending roughly 59 miles from corner to corner. The size and complexity of the Organ Mountains raises serious economic, security, and access concerns that cannot be appropriately addressed without resizing the monument’s footprint. This decision blatantly ignores local businesses, Border Patrol agents, and outdoorsmen to protect sites that should not be protected under the Antiquities Act. The Secretary even mentioned the WWII bombing craters in his summary as one of the more egregious examples of an over-expansive monuments – yet he left these ranges in the Monument. Even as a former Air Force pilot, I fail to see any value protecting this land over supporting historical ranching and economic growth. The Antiquities Act makes it clear that protected sites must be of historic or scientific interest, yet the OMDP is home to hundreds of thousands of acres without legitimate purpose. Additionally, the Monument does not respect or protect private property rights. The current footprint surrounds thousands of acres of state and private lands, creating a number of access concerns that will significantly devalue these parcels. This will most likely lead to landowners being forced to sell off their properties to the federal government, something the previous Administration likely intended. Over the course of this debate, nearly 800 businesses and organizations in the community expressed serious concerns over regulations and limitations that come with a monument of this size. By simply unleashing nearly two-thirds of the land that are irresponsibly choked off, the same natural treasures would remain protected – thwarting any concerns raised by the tourism industry – while the economy and culture of ranching, recreation, and multiple use that enriches the western traditions of southern New Mexico would be restored. It’s greatly disappointing that Secretary Zinke ignored a large cross-section of the community. I urge the Trump Administration to roll back the damage done by the previous Administration, and resize of the Organ Mountains Desert-Peaks to preserve the natural beauty of New Mexico’s land, while supporting the rights of local ranchers, farmers, and outdoorsmen,"" stated Rep. Pearce. The following statements are from local New Mexicans who directly addressed their concerns to Secretary Zinke, but remain overlooked by this recommendation: Frank DuBois, former NM Secretary of Agriculture: “Changing the grazing language will help but does not answer all the concerns of the ranching community. For instance, the language in the Proclamation that prevents off-road travel, even by nonmotorized means, is a great hindrance to the day-to-day operations of a ranching family. How do they get fencing supplies to a fence line? How do they get a trailer to a sick cow or horse? How do they transport equipment needed for an existing range improvement? In addition, the language in the Proclamation limiting new right-of-ways will certainly put a stop to new range improvements like water pipelines, and in some instances prevent them from getting power to their property.” Jerry Schickedanz, Dean Emeritus, NMSU CAHE: “In order for the Antiquities Act to be accurately followed, the objects are to be named first and then land can be set aside to properly protect and preserve the named object.  Because this was not done in the proclamation for the OMDP National Monument, I firmly believe that the designation was done illegally. This proclamation drew the boundaries from old legislative proposals and then looked for objects to protect.  The monument designation fails the first two criteria to be reviewed by the E.O. signed by President Trump.  I am disappointed that the Secretary of the Interior did not follow the review criteria in his recommendation for downsizing to President Trump. I am disappointed that the monument was not reduced in size to the footprint of the Organ Mountains which would have maintained the iconic backdrop to Las Cruces that everyone cherishes.  It would still bring tourists to see the monument and any economic revenue can be still be accrued to the designation. Because the monument was not downsized, there will still be problems with rights of way to private and state trust land for development, access for border security, flood control, and watershed management.  There will be problems of trespass of monument visitors looking for objects that were named in the proclamation and reside on private and state trust land.  They were not part of the monument, but in the rush to get PresidentObama to sign the proclamation, they were illegally named as objects to be protected.” Stephen Wilmeth, Rancher “I have invested my livelihood in my ranch. While changing the grazing language may alleviate some of the burden, my future existence depends on the reduction of the monument. Without a reduction, the future operating plan will limit access and eventually eliminate my ranch and other ranches within the monument borders.” Carol Cooper, Rancher “The current boundary of the OMDP National Monument surrounds a number of ranches that have significant state or private lands. Without changing the footprint, private land and State Trust Lands will, inevitably, be controlled by the Federal government.  Reducing the footprint of the monument is the only way to protect individuals, businesses, and our community from the negative effects of the Monument designation.” Wesley Eaton, Rancher “Changing the grazing language will help stakeholders that have ties to these lands that span generations, but it will fail to protect the thousands of acres of private and state properties that are within the monument. Those who will be forced to operate on private and state land within the Monument will have significant difficulty in obtaining rights of way to do basic maintenance activities. The Antiquities Act specifically states that objects with historic or scientific interest should be protected. In no way was the OMDP National Monumentcreated with that in mind. These overly expansive designations must be remedied, but unfortunately, the necessary changes have not recommended.” John Keck, Rancher “Our family currently has 3 parcels of private deeded land within the monument boundaries as well as many, many acres of State of New Mexico grazing leases which together with the Federal BLM land make up our 90 section ranch. Failing to reduce the monument's footprint will create a ""taking"" of our private deeded lands and our State of New Mexico grazing leases, which will destroy our operation and diminish the tax base and income not only for us but for the two counties in which we are located and the State of New Mexico.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-announces-awards-aid-small-business-growth-and-development,PEARCE ANNOUNCES AWARDS THAT AID SMALL BUSINESS GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT,2017-09-19,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 19, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) awarded a total of $3,780,521 to a number of New Mexico institutions under the FY2017 Community Development Financial Institutions Program (CDFI Program) and Native American CDFI Assistance Program (NACA Program). “New Mexico is made up of many rural and native communities with individuals, families, and small businesses who rely on access to affordable financial services and products. Small businesses are the cornerstone of the nation’s economy. Today’s award will better assist financial institutions in serving and supporting economic development throughout our local communities,” stated Rep. Pearce. “New Mexico’s economy must continue to diversify to strengthen and grow. I will continue working with federal agencies and local governments to give small businesses every opportunity to start and grow.” The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s CDFI Fund awarded 303 Community Development Financial Institutions $208.7 million in awards. These funds will help fund economic development efforts of rural, urban, and native communities. Under the CDFI Program, ACCION received $1,006,905, First Financial Credit Union received $596,500, and Ventana Fund received $580,405. Under the NACA Program, Cha Piyeh received $149,878, Native Partnership for Housing received $781,333, and Tiwa Lending Services received $665,500. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-natural-resources-committee-passed-sportsmen%E2%80%99s-package,HOUSE NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE PASSED SPORTSMENS PACKAGE,2017-09-13,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 13, 2017) The House Natural Resources Subcommittee today passed H.R. 3668, the Sportsmen’s Heritage and Recreational Enhancement Act, or SHARE Act. “The tradition and culture of hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting is under attack all across the West. Here in New Mexico, we are all too familiar with the impacts of decreased access and overly burdensome regulations on federal lands. It is vital to protect the lifestyle and rights of sportsmen and women,” stated Rep. Pearce. “The rich culture and heritage of the West is something we are proud of in New Mexico, having access to lands is vital for the continuation of outdoor recreation as our ancestors had before us.”  The SHARE Act prevents federal agencies like the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management from restricting access to federal lands for hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting. This bill also simplifies regulations for hearing protection and noise mitigation equipment for firearms. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-passing-senator-pete-domenici,PEARCE STATEMENT ON PASSING OF SENATOR PETE DOMENICI,2017-09-13,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 13, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement on the passing of former New Mexico Senator Pete Domenici: “It is with a heavy heart today that we say goodbye to a man that single handedly transformed the state of New Mexico. Senator Domenici was a powerful voice for all New Mexicans and went above and beyond for the people and families who call the land of enchantment home. I had the great privilege of working closely with Senator Domenici over the years, and fostered a relationship with him as a friend, mentor, and leader. He didn’t hesitate to put every single New Mexican before himself and fought tirelessly to make sure opportunities for a better life were available to all. He was a titan – a fighter – and his work for the wellness and prosperity of New Mexico will forever be remembered. There are no words that can ease the pain we share today, but together we can make sure his legacy lives on.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-i-will-never-forget,PEARCE: I WILL NEVER FORGET,2017-09-11,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (September 11, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement in memory of the nearly 3,000 American lives lost on September 11, 2001: ""We can all remember where we were and what we were doing when our nation fell under attack. On this day sixteen years ago, our country united against the evil and hate that waged an attack against the liberties and values that define us as Americans. First responders and ordinary citizens jumped up, without hesitation, to help their fellow Americans. I will never forget those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and will continue to honor the brave men and women in uniform that continue to fight, protect, and defend our freedoms every day. God bless America."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-congress-should-not-play-politics-emergency-aid-funding,PEARCE: CONGRESS SHOULD NOT PLAY POLITICS WITH EMERGENCY AID FUNDING,2017-09-08,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (September 8, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after voting against a package that irresponsibly included an extension of the debt limit and a Continuing Resolution to disaster relief funds for Harvey and Irma: “First and foremost, I fully support funding the recovery and rebuilding efforts for the people and families impacted by Hurricane Harvey and Irma. However, this important aid package should not have been connected to a suspension of the debt-limit and a short term continuing resolution. Just as businesses and families should live within their means, so should the federal government. By suspending the debt limit for three months, Congress is irresponsibly allowing uncertainty into our nation’s financial market and economy. I could not in good conscience vote for a package that merely ignores our nation’s debt for another three months. The package also contains a three-month continuing resolution, which fails to provide certainty across the government. I have been working tirelessly to ensure New Mexicans have the opportunities to earn success, but we cannot expect businesses and our nation’s military to accomplish their missions under this sort of uncertainty. The Senate should follow the House’s lead by working to complete the appropriations process so we are not forced to survive on these reckless short-term measures. By playing politics with emergency aid funding, Congress is taking action without a thought-out plan. I will continue working with my colleagues and the Administration to find solutions that will encourage job growth and provide greater opportunities for our state and nation to thrive.” Background On September 6, 2017, Rep. Steve Pearce voted to pass emergency aid funding for the communities affected by Hurricane Harvey and potential effects of Hurricane Irma. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-asks-sessions-investigate-swwo,PEARCE ASKS SESSIONS TO INVESTIGATE SWWO,2017-09-07,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (September 7, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce this week sent a letter to the United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions to request an investigation into the wrongdoings between the University of New Mexico Health Service Center (UNMHSC) and Southwestern Women’s Options (SWWO). “I’ve worked tirelessly with New Mexico officials and Members in Congress to ensure the rights and liberties of women and the unborn are protected. In 2016, an investigation by the U.S. House of Representatives Select Panel on Infant Lives raised serious concerns of ethical and legal violations by the University of New Mexico (UNM) and the Southwestern Women’s Options (SWWO), all at the taxpayers’ expense. The violations unearthed lead to two separate criminal referrals to the New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas, yet to date no action has been taken allowing multiple cases’ statute of limitation to expire. The state of New Mexico must stand for the rule of law. I believe the Department of Justice has a legal responsibility to look into these violations if the New Mexico Attorney General refuses to take action,” stated Rep. Pearce. Background The House Select Investigative Panel on Infant Lives was tasked with discovering information on the medical practices of abortion service providers and procurement practices of organizations who sell baby body part across the nation.  Of the 15 criminal referrals, 2 of them were sent to the New Mexico Attorney General's Office. The first criminal referral was sent to the New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas in June of 2016 after finding the University of New Mexico violated the Spradling Act – prohibiting the exchange of fetal parts produced through an induced abortion.  In December 2016, the Panel sent a second criminal referral after discovering more evidence that the Southwestern Women’s Options did not acquire proper consent by women prior to using their unborn infant tissue for UNM research. On April 19, 2017, Congressman Steve Pearce (NM-02) attended a press conference with Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn (TN-07), Chairwoman of the House Select Investigative Panel on Infant Lives, New Mexico State Legislators and pro-life leaders in New Mexico on the House Select Panel’s findings of ethical and legal violations at UNM and SWWO.  The final report released by the House Select Investigative Panel on Infant Lives can be found here. On April 20, 2017, New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas stated his office was taking further action to consider the legal violations uncovered at the University of New Mexico, yet no action was taken. A PDF of the letter can be found here. The full text is below. September 5, 2017 The Honorable Jeff Sessions Secretary United States Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20530 Dear Secretary Sessions: On October 7, 2015, the United States House of Representatives passed H. Res. 461 in response to horrific videos that depicted the immoral procurement of fetal tissue by Planned Parenthood. The Resolution created the Select Panel on Infant Lives (Panel) chaired by Representative Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee. Charged with investigating the medical procedures related to abortions and the practices of institutions procuring fetal tissue, the Panel examined the relationship between the University of New Mexico Health Service Center (UNMHSC) and Southwestern Women’s Options (SWWO). On January 4, 2017, the Panel released their yearlong investigative report highlighting the illegal activity that occurred between UNMHSC and SWWO (attached). The evidence uncovered was enough for the Panel to make two criminal referrals to New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas. The criminal referrals are related to improper consent procedures as well as the violations of fetal procurement. It has come to our attention that the statute of limitation is expiring on many of the cases involved in the Panel’s report. While the New Mexico Attorney General’s office has stated that “there is an ongoing investigation” on the actions between UNMHSC and SWWO, we fear the investigation is being stalled intentionally to allow the potential violations by these two entities to reach the statute of limitation. On February 4, 2017, a woman tragically died at SWWO facilities after receiving a late-term abortion. This raises more questions about the reckless behavior of the SWWO. In 2016 alone, the National Abortion Federation reportedly referred more than 200 Texas patients to New Mexico for abortion related procedures. With hundreds of women flocking to New Mexico to receive these dangerous procedures, something must be done. We formally request your office conduct an investigation on UNMHSC and SWWO practices related to the Panel’s findings and the unfortunate tragedy mentioned above. We also ask that your office prosecutes, to the fullest extent of the law, any violations that are uncovered. It is entirely unacceptable for these institutions to continually violate 42 U.S. Code § 289g–2 as well as other state and federal laws, especially in-light of the interstate commerce that is generated from these abortions and the research that is conducted with the subsequent fetal tissue. Thank you in advance for your prompt response. Sincerely, Steve Pearce Member of Congress ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-urges-congress-act,PEARCE URGES CONGRESS TO ACT,2017-09-07,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (September 7, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce yesterday sent a letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan urging Congress to work in a bipartisan manner to establish a permanent solution for people protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program. “For decades, Congress sat idly by while the Executive Branch imposed temporary, patchwork immigration policies, sidestepping the Constitution. Congress, not the President, has the responsibility to enact the changes our nation needs and can no longer afford to allow the Executive Branch to usurp its power. No longer can our nation kick the can down the road with questionably legal short-term patches like DACA. We must work together, across party lines, to find viable, long-term solutions that provides fairness and justice for all,” stated Rep. Pearce. On September 5, 2017, the Trump Administration announced its plans to rescind the DACA Program on March 5, 2017. A PDF of the letter can be found here. The full text is below. September 6, 2017 The Honorable Paul Ryan Speaker of the House United States House of Representatives H-232 The Capitol Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Speaker Ryan: I write today to urge legislative action on a permanent solution for people protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Whether you agree with the decision by the Trump Administration or not, Congress has the power and the responsibility to provide long-term certainty for DREAMERS. It is Congress’ job to act - not whoever occupies the Oval Office. Since the creation of DACA in 2012, Congress has failed to act on behalf of those who benefit from the program by allowing a temporary solution to be all the certainty these young individuals receive: this is simply wrong. We must formulate a permanent solution. With only six months to act, Congress must work together in a bipartisan manner to craft legislation that is fair and just to DACA recipients. DACA recipients know no home other than the United States. While finding a solution to the DACA program may only be one piece to overall immigration reform, it is a necessary step that must be taken by Congress. It is time to end political grandstanding and do our job. I again urge action on a permanent solution to the DACA program so this problem will not continue for future generations. Sincerely, Steve Pearce Member of Congress ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-leads-hearing-lone-wolf-and-small-scale-terrorist-attacks,PEARCE LEADS HEARING ON LONE-WOLF AND SMALL-SCALE TERRORIST ATTACKS,2017-09-06,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (September 6, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today led a Subcommittee on Terrorism and Illicit Finance hearing entitled “Low Cost, High Impact: Combatting the Financing of Lone-Wolf and Small-Scale Terrorist Attacks” to examine funding mechanisms used to coordinate low-scale attacks. “Efforts to combat terrorist financing have traditionally focused on large scale funding sources; however, small-scale and lone-wolf style attacks have become more common and require significantly less funding. As foreign terrorist organizations suffer military defeats and become less capable of pulling off complex, largescale attacks, many have embraced providing support – financial and otherwise – to individuals and small terror cells.  These decentralized tactics allow acts of terrorism to be carried out with little coordination and limited financial assistance,” stated Rep. Pearce. “As we move forward, it is important to examine how lone wolves and small cells are financing their operations when considering effective counter-terrorist financing efforts. I thank the witnesses who joined us today to shed light on new, innovative tactics to defend our nation from this ever-evolving threat.” Watch today’s hearing here or by clicking below. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-fights-fairness-justice-and-family-unity,"PEARCE FIGHTS FOR FAIRNESS, JUSTICE, AND FAMILY UNITY",2017-09-05,2017,2017-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (September 5, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the Administration’s plan to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program: “We in New Mexico understand the harmful and damaging effects that temporary patchwork solutions to our nation’s immigration system can have on families. This kind of flawed reform fails to provide certainty and leaves millions with an illusion of hope. Since arriving in Congress, I have fought to make reforms to our nation’s immigration policies so that the system is fair and just for all. The truth is, the current DACA program is a short-term solution that does not achieve these goals. It is only a temporary fix for millions of young adults who have only ever known the United States as home. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress for fairness, justice, and family unity, and will fight for a permanent change for DREAMERS that ensures both current and future generations do not face the same challenges and burdens.” Background In June 2012, the Obama Administration established the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) to provide temporary lawful status for children brought unlawfully to the United States. As of September 2016, more than 750,000 DACA requests were accepted. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-trump%E2%80%99s-military-strategy-afghanistan,PEARCE STATEMENT ON TRUMPS MILITARY STRATEGY IN AFGHANISTAN,2017-08-22,2017,2017-08,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (August 21, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after President Trump outlined his military strategy in Afghanistan:    ""The United States has been sending our nation’s troops into harm’s way in Afghanistan since 2001. As a new Administration working to devise a strategy for winning the war in Afghanistan, it is imperative that President Trump seek the advice of his Generals and military leaders. We are fighting a generational war that requires this kind of collaboration for the success of our armed forces, strengthening the Afghan government, and stabilizing the region. Most importantly though, the United States cannot repeat the mistakes made in Iraq, which led to the rise of ISIS. It is clear tonight that President Trump took the time to confer with his military leaders to establish a pathway forward in Afghanistan, and understands the weight that these military decisions carry. The challenges and sacrifices made by men and women in the armed forces, as well as their children and spouses, are not to be taken lightly. When I served in Vietnam, the government lost faith in our mission, and forgot about us. By addressing the nation, the President is reiterating this is a mistake that must never be repeated. As I stated under both the Bush and Obama Administrations, the President as Commander-in-Chief has the responsibility to lay out an actionable path to success. In the coming days and weeks, I look forward to seeing greater detail from the Administration about how our military plans on completing its mission in Afghanistan. If we are to risk more American lives, the President must be steadfast in his resolve to complete the mission, and win."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/nm-delegation-says-rebid-opportunity-doe-strengthen-lanl%E2%80%99s-critical-role-northern-new,N.M. Delegation Says Rebid Is Opportunity For DOE To Strengthen LANLs Critical Role In Northern New Mexico,2017-08-11,2017,2017-08,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Paramount concern is assuring the safety and health of the employees, the public and protecting the environment while enabling the lab to continue to meet its crucial national security missions WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Steve Pearce (R-N.M.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-N.M.), and U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Energy Under Secretary for Nuclear Security General Frank G. Klotz regarding the forthcoming Request for Proposals (RFP) for the management and operation of Los Alamos National Laboratory. ""Our paramount concern for the new M&O contract is assuring the safety and health of the employees, the public and protecting the environment while enabling the lab to continue to meet its crucial national security missions.  In pursuit of this goal, we expect the Department to conduct an open and fair competitive bidding process,"" wrote the lawmakers. ""In addition, we recommend that NNSA take care to consider both past performance and current capabilities in the most accurate and relevant ways to ensure that the best candidate is ultimately selected."" The lawmakers emphasized that the business community provides critical support to the important work of the lab, and the local governments and schools help attract and support its diverse workforce.  In light of the critical nature of the partnership between LANL and northern New Mexico, they urged the Department of Energy to protect or strengthen the RFP in the following key areas: workforce recruitment and retention; partnership with the community; regional and small business purchasing; technology transfer; regional university partnerships; and STEM education and charitable giving. ""In addition to high-quality science and engineering work, Los Alamos National Laboratory and its employees play a central role in the community and are essential to the economy of New Mexico. We urge NNSA to ensure that LANL will continue to attract and retain the world-class talent and workforce necessary to fulfill its primary mission and responsibilities as the nation's premier national security science laboratory,"" the lawmakers continued. The full text of the letter is below and can be downloaded here. August 10, 2017 The Honorable Frank G. Klutz Under Secretary for Nuclear SecurityU.S. Department of Energy1000 Independence Avenue SWWashington, DC  20585Solicitation: DE-SOL-0011206 Dear General Klotz: We write regarding the forthcoming Request for Proposals (RFP) for the management and operation of Los Alamos National Laboratory. As one of the largest science and technology institutes in the world, LANL plays a critical role in our national security and we are deeply committed to its success.    Our paramount concern for the new M&O contract is assuring the safety and health of the employees, the public and protecting the environment while enabling the lab to continue to meet its crucial national security missions.  In pursuit of this goal, we expect the Department to conduct an open and fair competitive bidding process.  In addition, we recommend that NNSA take care to consider both past performance and current capabilities in the most accurate and relevant ways to ensure that the best candidate is ultimately selected. As the cornerstone of our nation's nuclear research, development, and production, New Mexico has long taken immense pride in our state's contributions to national security. That said, there has always been an understanding that DOE and its contractors will assure the highest standards of security and safety possible in operating its laboratories.  As such, we believe the RFP should include strong requirements that will ensure the contractor maintains safe and secure operations at LANL. Additionally, the NNSA should make clear it will hold the new M&O contractor fully accountable for any violations, including appropriate penalties for serious security and safety lapses. For over 70 years, LANL and its employees have been inextricably linked to northern New Mexico.  The business community provides critical support to the important work of the lab, and the local governments and schools help attract and support its diverse workforce.  In light of the critical nature of the partnership between LANL and northern New Mexico, we urge you to protect or strengthen the RFP in the following key areas. 1)     Workforce recruitment and retention: We believe it is critical that the contract protect the jobs of the existing workforce, including right of first refusal, hiring preference and protection of benefits and pensions.  We encourage NNSA to explicitly express these commitments as soon as possible to ensure continuity and retention of the current workforce. In addition, the contractor should have flexibility and incentives to establish competitive compensation and benefits packages that strengthen workforce recruitment and retention, especially for women and underrepresented minorities in critical areas that impact national security.  We strongly oppose any provisions permitting contractors to renege on obligations to current and former employees while we support provisions assuring all existing labor union agreements are honored. 2)    Partnership with the Community:  Given the regional economic dominance of the laboratory, we strongly believe the contractor should be required to be an engaged and a constructive partner to the communities in northern New Mexico, the eight northern pueblos, and the citizens of the State of New Mexico.  Because the geographic proximity of the community to the lab presents unique interdependence, the contractor should continue to support all existing contracts, agreements and MOUs with state and local governments. The establishment of the Manhattan Project National Historic Park represents an opportunity to promote regional economic development and the contract should reflect any necessary support needed to continue this ongoing collaboration between the Department of Energy and the National Park Service.  Reflecting the special relationship with the community required for the successful operation of the lab, we ask that NNSA include community engagement as an evaluation criterion in the final RFP. A failure to include an adequate Community Commitment Plan in the new M&O contract could cause unnecessary disruptions in local community relations with the laboratory. 3)    Regional and small business purchasing: LANL's existing Regional Purchasing Program has contributed to a strong ecosystem of small businesses that contribute to the success of the lab.  Last year, LANL procured over 40 percent of its subcontracted goods and services in New Mexico of which $260 million went to small businesses in the state.  Subcontracting with local companies improves efficiency, provides site-tailored, value-added goods and services while also building regional capacity that helps recruit new employees and their families.  We request that the RFP require the contractor to maximize procurement opportunities for northern New Mexico businesses and continue the existing 5 percent price preference for small businesses in the region. We also request that NNSA require the contractor to submit a plan as part of the RFP to increase small business contracting over the life of the contract. 4)    Technology transfer: The federal investment in research and development at LANL should be maximally leveraged to advance the nation's technological edge for innovation in the global economy. Technology transfer should be considered a substantive evaluation criterion for the performance period of the contract. Furthermore, performance evaluation should be based on economic impact criteria such as utilization of laboratory-generated technology by small businesses and regional job creation and retention.  The contractor should also be encouraged to support regional economic competitiveness through projects such as LANL's Feynman Center for Innovation, the Regional Development Corporation's Venture Acceleration Fund and ProjectY Cowork Los Alamos, a standalone nonprofit dedicated to collaboration, increasing business formations, and accelerating regional job creation.  NNSA should require the contractor to report annually the national and local economic impact of its tech transfer efforts and how they strengthen regional capacity in technologies that support the laboratory's missions. 5)    Regional university partnerships: Regional universities already provide an important workforce pipeline for LANL and are a key resource for strengthening local technical capacity. We support efforts to increase innovation-based economic development by the laboratory partnering with regional universities. We suggest that the RFP include incentives for inclusion of regional universities in the contractor leadership team and that contractors propose ways to strategically enhance partnerships with local academia and develop regional technology infrastructure. We also hope the existing New Mexico Consortium will be sustained and strengthened in the next contract. 6)    STEM education and charitable giving: A robust regional science and mathematics education program at the K-12 and university levels promotes the nation's competitiveness in the global market, contributes to developing a diverse, well-educated, and scientifically literate workforce, and helps maintain the nation's world technical leadership.  We deeply appreciate the ongoing contributions of LANL and its employees to local education and charitable giving.  The RFP should encourage the contractor to continue this important work in the community, especially in preparing and inspiring a diverse future generation of scientists and engineers. In particular, a minimum of three million dollars should be included as an allowable expense for the contractor's community commitment plan to address education, business support, and charitable giving. Finally, the state and local governments are concerned about the possible loss of significant tax revenue if the new M&O contractor is a nonprofit.  In the event the new contractor is not subject to the state's gross receipts tax, we ask you to work with the State of New Mexico and local jurisdictions and seriously consider other options to maintain support for the cost of local services the NNSA relies upon. We appreciate your careful consideration of each of these six key areas in the development of the final RFP.  We also urge you to seriously consider the formal comments submitted last month by representatives of the community and local and tribal governments.  When a site tour and proposal conference are scheduled, community leaders would welcome an opportunity to meet with the potential bidders to discuss the unique relationship between the lab and the region.  In addition to high-quality science and engineering work, Los Alamos National Laboratory and its employees play a central role in the community and are essential to the economy of New Mexico. We urge NNSA to ensure that LANL will continue to attract and retain the world-class talent and workforce necessary to fulfill its primary mission and responsibilities as the nation's premier national security science laboratory. Sincerely, ### Contacts: Keeley Christensen (Pearce) 202.225.2365 / Jennifer Talhelm (Udall) 202.228.6870 / Whitney Potter (Heinrich) 202.228.1578 / Joe Shoemaker (Luján) 202.225.6190 / Gilbert Gallegos (Lujan Grisham) 505.967.5612",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/new-mexico-delegation-urges-swift-appointment-new-mexico-rural-development-state,New Mexico Delegation Urges Swift Appointment of New Mexico Rural Development State Director,2017-08-10,2017,2017-08,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Lawmakers say position, currently vacant, is critical for managing USDA’s programs that provide hundreds of loans & grants each year in NM USDA RD provided more than $1.7 billion in New Mexico over the past 7 years WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representatives Steve Pearce, Ben Ray Luján, and Michelle Lujan Grisham and Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich urged U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue to appoint a Rural Development (RD) state director for New Mexico as soon as possible, to continue the critical mission of USDA RD to administer programs that provide hundreds of loans and grants each year for rural New Mexico, and to promote economic growth and improve quality of life in the state. Over the last seven years, USDA RD has provided New Mexico with more than $1.7 billion in “crucial support during a time of poor economic growth in our state, especially for many rural communities,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to Perdue.  President Trump has not appointed a New Mexico USDA RD director since taking office in January. “Given the diversity and unique characteristics of New Mexico, we believe that strong state director leadership is essential to providing robust and efficient levels of service for our struggling rural communities,” the delegation wrote. “New Mexico is a majority-minority state, with the highest proportion of Hispanic residents of any state and the second-highest proportion of Native Americans, and includes many unique and historic rural agricultural communities. Economic changes in the agriculture and other industries in all corners of our state are leading many communities to turn to USDA RD for assistance.” The delegation continued, “USDA RD’s mission is especially important in our state because New Mexico has one of the highest poverty rates in the nation at 20.4 percent. New Mexico is 50th in poverty among those who work full time year round and is one of six states where income inequality is greater for rural households than for urban households. In addition, New Mexico has one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation today. While the energy and tourism sectors are showing some recent strength, employment in the agriculture sector declined by 3.5 percent last year. These employment losses are projected to reach 5.7 percent by 2020. USDA RD programs have helped New Mexico’s rural communities remain resilient, however more work is urgently needed to bring economic growth up to the level enjoyed by rest of the country.” ""I can say from experience that having a state director in place with knowledge of the state helps improve program performance, increases the profile of the agency and grows investments in needed rural areas,” said Terry Brunner, former New Mexico state director for USDA RD. “This position was made available for presidential appointment because Congress recognized that the administration must have an on-the-ground presence in rural communities."" The delegation said that USDA RD has helped over 3,000 families in New Mexico participate in projects and create new opportunities to improve quality of life and spur economic growth in the state.  The full text of the letter is available below and here.  Dear Secretary Perdue: Thank you for your service as the Secretary of Agriculture. We write to respectfully request that a qualified New Mexico Rural Development State Director be named as soon as possible in order to continue the mission of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development (USDA RD) mission in our state. This position is critical to providing on-the-ground leadership for USDA to manage over 5,000 loans, grants, and assistance programs. USDA RD provided more than $1.7 billion in New Mexico over the past seven years, crucial support during a time of poor economic growth in our state, especially for many rural communities. This funding came primarily through affordable loans, which can create new jobs and fund rural infrastructure projects at a good value for taxpayers. In that time, USDA RD has helped communities and over 3,000 families do projects and create opportunities to make their lives better and spur economic growth.  Given the diversity and unique characteristics of New Mexico, we believe that strong state director leadership is essential to providing robust and efficient levels of service for our struggling rural communities. New Mexico is a majority minority state, with the highest proportion of Hispanic residents of any state and the second-highest proportion of Native Americans, and includes many unique and historic rural agricultural communities. Economic changes in the agriculture and other industries in all corners of our state are leading many communities to turn to USDA RD for assistance. USDA RD’s mission is especially important in our state because New Mexico has one of the highest poverty rates in the nation at 20.4 percent. New Mexico is 50th in poverty among those who work full time year round and is one of six states where income inequality is greater for rural households than for urban households. In addition New Mexico has one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation today. While the energy and tourism sectors are showing some recent strength, employment in the agriculture sector declined by 3.5 percent last year. These employment losses are projected to reach 5.7 percent by 2020. USDA RD programs have helped New Mexico’s rural communities remain resilient, however more work is urgently needed to bring economic growth up to the level enjoyed by rest of the country. To enable USDA to work effectively to face these challenges, New Mexico needs a state director who can understand the local context and ensure that USDA RD resources match the economic and social development needs of our diverse communities. Therefore, we respectfully urge you to appoint a State Director as soon as possible. Thank you for your attention to my/our request and we hope you will consider New Mexico’s needs on this and other important matters under your leadership at USDA. If we can be of any assistance in your work at the Department, please do not hesitate to contact us. Sincerely, ### Contacts: Keeley Christensen (Pearce) 202.329.2862 / Jennifer Talhelm (Udall) 202.228.6870 / Whitney Potter (Heinrich) 202.228.1578 / Joe Shoemaker (Luján) 202.225.6190 / Gilbert Gallegos (Lujan Grisham) 202.225.6316",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-applauds-repeal-onrr-valuation-rule,PEARCE APPLAUDS REPEAL OF ONRR VALUATION RULE,2017-08-07,2017,2017-08,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (August 5, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the Department of the Interior released a formal notice of their plans to repeal the Obama-era regulation on royalties for coal, natural gas, and oil extracted on federal lands. “The Office of Natural Resource Revenue (ONRR) valuation rule was a direct attack on state’s like New Mexico that rely on the production of energy resources. Without repealing this rule, taxpayers in New Mexico and across the nation would be cheated out of revenues they rightfully deserve. This is much-needed money to improve our schools, repair roads, and assist other essential services our local communities and economies rely on. I’m pleased to see the Department of the Interior follow through on their commitment to unleash domestic energy production from crippling regulations so that New Mexico can continue producing affordable and reliable energy. Not only will this lower energy costs for New Mexicans, but it will keep good-paying jobs here in our state where they belong.” On April 3, 2017, the DOI announced their plans to repeal the Consolidated Federal Oil & Gas and Federal & Indian Coal Valuation Reform Rule. Rep. Pearce led a letter with other House Members to the House Committee on Appropriations, urging the Department of the Interior to prohibit the implementation of the Federal Oil & Gas and Federal & Indian Coal Valuation Reform Rule. Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-sponsored-fort-wingate-land-transfer-moves-forward,PEARCE SPONSORED FORT WINGATE LAND TRANSFER MOVES FORWARD,2017-08-07,2017,2017-08,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (August 4, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the U.S. Army notified the Department of the Interior (DOI) that it is transferring administrative jurisdiction of nine parcels of the former Fort Wingate Army Depot to the Navajo Nation and Zuni Pueblo in New Mexico: “This land transfer is a huge step forward in a multi-decade fight that I became involved with when I first arrived in Congress. For too long the Army delayed this transfer of land to the tribes. After 12 years of dedicated work, I got legislation passed requiring the Army give the land back to the tribes. Today's action is a major milestone– but this is still only the beginning. It’s vital to the strength and future of the tribes that this land gets put back in their rightful hands as it will allow them to have greater control, access, and economic benefits from the use of it. I remain committed to transferring the remaining parcels as quickly as possible.” Background On August 3rd, administrative jurisdiction of nine parcels of land, totaling 2,496 acres, was officially transferred from the Army to the Department of the Interior. This is the first property transfer under the Return of Certain Lands At Fort Wingate to The Original Inhabitants Act,which was included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2017. The transfer will include all of the property for which the Army has remediated.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-mnuchin-talk-combatting-terrorist-financing,"PEARCE, MNUCHIN TALK COMBATING TERRORIST FINANCING",2017-07-28,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (July 28, 2017) The House Financial Services Committee yesterday held a hearing on the state of the International Financial System with testimony from Department of the Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.  “The free flow of credit is what fuels the American dream. Yet, this opens the door for terrorist and other illegal actors to take advantage of our financial system to do harm against the world. It is no longer enough to simply combat the threats we see today.  It isn’t enough to just move forward with the threat, but we must get ahead of it. Today, I spoke with Secretary Mnuchin about our nation’s effort to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. I greatly appreciate his attention to this serious threat and look forward to working with him through the Terrorism and Illicit Finance Subcommittee to modernize and update our standards to cut off terrorist funding,” stated Rep. Pearce. Click on the image below to watch Rep. Pearce’s questioning of Secretary Mnuchin. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-promote-transparency-border-wall-funding,PEARCE VOTES TO PROMOTE TRANSPARENCY IN BORDER WALL FUNDING,2017-07-27,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (July 27, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today voted against a procedural motion in the House of Representatives that adds full funding for the construction of a physical border wall to the national security appropriations bill without debate or a vote. Votes such as this one are procedural motions that establish how bills will be debated on the floor. Including the funding for the border wall in today’s procedural motion is a unique and rarely used maneuver. “I fully support securing the border – it is imperative for the safety and security of New Mexico and our nation. The solution must utilize modern technology and update the strategy our nation uses to patrol the border. Today’s vote for the procedural motion automatically included funding for the construction of a physical wall along the border, without the ability for Members to debate and consider the addition of technology and other modernization reforms to our nation’s strategy, especially as it affects the protections of Border Patrol agents who are in harm’s way on a daily basis. Votes on procedural motions are typically straight forward, however, the complexity of this one with funding for a border wall, without normal debate, were the key factors in my decision.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-support-our-armed-forces-and-national-security,PEARCE VOTES TO SUPPORT OUR ARMED FORCES AND NATIONAL SECURITY,2017-07-27,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (July 27, 2017) The House of Representatives voted today to fund critical national defense programs through H.R. 3219, Make America Secure Appropriations Act, 2018. This appropriations package, also known as a “minibus,” included the Department of Defense, Military Construction – Department of Veteran’s Affairs, Energy and Water Development, and Legislative Branch funding bills. “I remain committed to providing our armed forces with the tools and resources they need to complete their critical missions and protect the security of our nation. We cannot expect our nation’s military to defend against ever evolving threats without the ability to train, maintain equipment, and invest in new technologies. The only way to accomplish these goals is to modernize and reform the way our military operates. Today’s national security package tackles the readiness crisis of our military head on, while honoring the commitment we’ve made to our service members and their families,” stated Rep. Pearce. Rep. Pearce continued to state, “National security also lies within energy advancement and development. New Mexico plays a vital role in the research, development, production, and disposal of nuclear resources that are fundamental to our nation’s security strategy. With strong funding to support these operations, New Mexico will continue to be a national leader in protecting the United States. The funding package included a non-debatable provision that provides $1.6 billion to fund the construction of a physical barrier along the southern border. Rep. Pearce voted against this procedural motion earlier today. “Today’s legislation was not perfect. The construction of a physical wall on the southern border will never be the solution. The only way to secure the border is through the use of modern technology and a comprehensive strategy for patrolling the border. I will continue to educate and work with my colleagues to make critical border security decisions that our nation needs, however, this bill does too much for those that protect our freedoms on a daily basis to vote against.” Background - July 2017 “Minibus” includes funding for: Energy & Water Development $37.6 billion total funding Strengthens national security Moves U.S. toward energy independence by investing in Department of Energy programs that reduce reliance on foreign oil Keeps energy costs down Increases funding for Department of Energy’s nuclear weapons programs Includes measures to improve public safety Creates jobs Strengthens national economy Provides $6.16 billion funding for Army Corps of Engineers Prioritizes research projects and studies for flood and storm damage reduction Expedites the Trump Administration’s commitment to repealing “Waters of the United States” Defense Total budget is $658.1 billion Promotes readiness and focuses on rebuilding our military Includes $73.9 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations funding Ensures troops have the training and equipment to maintain global military superiority Provides 2.4% pay raise – largest military pay increase in 8 years Does not provide funding for BRAC Provides for MQ-9, F-16, and C-130 mods Ensures military is on cutting edge of defense technology Invests $84.3 billion in research and development Invests $149.9 billion in equipment and weapons procurement Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (MilCon & VA) Total budget is $88.8 billion Increases investment in rural airfields for Guard and Reserve use Ft. Bliss hospital installment for $251 million Increases Energy Grid security Supports medical care for 7 million VA patients Increases funding for construction of critical military infrastructure by 25% Supports all NDAA projects for NM Creates the Office of Accountability to review claims and oversee whistleblower issues Inter-state controlled substance monitoring program continuation Legislative Branch Puts security of Congressional Members, their staff, and people they serve first Boosts funding for Capitol Police Maintains functions of the House of Representatives ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/editorial/albuquerque-journal-downsizing-organ-mountains-national-monument-would-still-save-land,Albuquerque Journal: Downsizing Organ Mountains National Monument would still save land but boost economy,2017-07-26,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Congressman Steve Pearce Whenever I’m traveling through Doña Ana County, I can look up at the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks and feel proud to come from a state that is home to some of our nation’s most beautiful treasures. I share this feeling with my fellow New Mexicans, and there’s a desire within us all to make sure the Organs stay preserved for generations to come. Back in 2013, before President Obama created the current footprint, I introduced a bill to establish the Organs as a national monument. My bill would have made the Organs, and surrounding natural treasures, a national monument forever protected in the National Landscape Conservation System. The roughly 60,000-acre footprint I suggested was a balance between conserving the Organs without compromising New Mexico’s economy and the culture of ranching, recreation and multiple uses. Economies surrounding the monument are supported by local businesses, the Convention Center, a top-rated farmers market, annual festivals, sporting tournaments, and diverse museums – all of which draw people to visit the area. To attempt to calculate or establish a range of economic impact the monument alone contributes to the community is misleading. In fact, there is no metric that allows for an accurate or even broad accounting of revenue created by the monument. Recent attempts to define the increased economic benefit were only able to place it anywhere between $4 million and $11 million. These numbers come from an analysis by the Las Cruces Sun-News, which used visitation numbers from the Bureau of Land Management for three sites within the monument – Dripping Springs Natural Area, Aguirre Spring Campground and the Soledad Canyon Area. Increased visitation to these sites, along with the estimated tourism dollars, have been used time and again as a way to fight for the current 500,000-acre footprint... Read the full op-ed in the Albuquerque Journal here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-secretary-zinke%E2%80%99s-visit-new-mexico,PEARCE STATEMENT ON SECRETARY ZINKES VISIT TO NEW MEXICO,2017-07-26,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (July 26, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the follow statement after the Department of the Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke announced his plans to travel to New Mexico to look at two of the state’s national monuments: “I appreciate Secretary Zinke acting on my request to personally visit the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks Monument. During his trip to New Mexico, he will be able to experience firsthand the beauty of the Organ Mountains and gain a greater understanding of our joint desire to protect them for generations to come. At the same time, he will be able to meet with the businesses, ranchers, border security personnel, and outdoorsmen who are negatively impacted by the current size and complexity of the monument. I look forward to continuing my work with the Department of the Interior and the Secretary to ensure priorities of New Mexico are upheld.” On April 26, 2017, President Trump signed the “Executive Order for a Review of Designations under the Antiquities Act,” which allows for the Department of the Interior to review expansive national monuments around the country. Rep. Pearce has worked with the local community and governments to establish a compromise that protects the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks and other natural treasures, while ensuring the surrounding farmers, ranchers, outdoorsmen, and all New Mexicans can benefit from multiple uses of the land. For Rep. Pearce’s op-ed on the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks, click here. Check out a previous article on Rep. Pearce’s push to establish the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument prior to President Obama’s declaration, click here via Albuquerque Journal. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-cfpb-arbitration-rule,PEARCE STATEMENT ON CFPB ARBITRATION RULE,2017-07-25,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (July 25, 2017) The House of Representatives today voted to pass House Joint Resolution 111 to disapprove of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) final rule that prohibits financial service providers from using arbitration. “The CFPB enacts rules that hurt rural communities, like ours in New Mexico, more than any other. Rather than provide true protections, as originally intended to do, the CFPB works in its own interest without any accountability or transparency. This anti-arbitration rule especially hurts small, rural banks, much like what we have throughout New Mexico, by favoring trial-lawyers at the expense of consumers. I stand up against this rule today so New Mexicans, and people across America, maintain their right to due process as guaranteed under the Constitution,” stated Rep. Pearce. The CFPB’s “Arbitration Agreement” rule would prohibit financial service providers from including the private arbitration clause in credit card and bank account contracts. The CFPB released their own study showing that consumers benefit more from arbitration versus those who hire trial lawyers for a class-action lawsuit. Under the Congressional Review Act, Congress has the ability to overturn recently created federal regulations with a joint resolution passed by both chambers and signed by the President. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-prioritizes-veterans-across-america,HOUSE PRIORITIZES VETERANS ACROSS AMERICA,2017-07-24,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (July 24, 2017) The House of Representatives today voted on legislation to improve the quality of life for our nation’s veterans. Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after voting to pass these bills: “American veterans and their families have sacrificed so much to defend our freedoms and preserve democracy. It is important that we honor our commitments. Unfortunately, for too long our nation has taken advantage of our veterans and failed to provide them with the service they need and deserve. Congress must be working together to correct the egregious violations and service within the VA that has come to light in recent years. Men and women who have served, and especially those serving now, need to know that when they come home, there is a system that is going to be there for them. I stand by my commitment to be there for our veterans, and will continue fighting so that they have the opportunities they deserve after sacrificing so much for the future of our nation.” Background H.R. 3218, the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017, extends GI Bill benefits granted to veterans, dependents and surviving spouses. This bill expands veterans’ access to education and workforce programs, by ending the 15-year “use it or lose it” restriction. It allows eligible recipients to use their GI Bill benefits throughout their entire lives. Other legislation on the House Floor today focused on restoring the culture at the VA through greater oversight and accountability, increasing opportunities for veterans who own small business, and expanding physicians ability to provide greater care through a pilot program. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/seven-years-dodd-frank,SEVEN YEARS OF DODD-FRANK,2017-07-21,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Albuquerque, NM (July 21, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement on the signing of the Dodd-Frank Act seven years ago: “Today marks the 7th anniversary of the Dodd-Frank Act, creator of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Out of all the impacts of Dodd-Frank, it is the damaging effects that the CFPB had on small and rural communities that stands out the most. What was supposed to serve as a consumer watchdog, quickly evolved into a machine that over-regulated our local banks out of existence. I have spent the last 20 years fighting for New Mexican families’ way of life, yet CFPB has continually made it harder for people to buy a home and help their family grow. Community banks in rural areas all across America did not create the crisis we faced in 2008, yet they are the ones being held responsible. The bottom line is, Wall Street is not going to come to our communities to lend for manufactured housing, to help our local businesses grow, and make our communities prosper. I have and will always support our local communities and will continue working so they have access to the services they need; so when I talked about making changes to Dodd-Frank Act, I talk about protecting and improving our communities in New Mexico. I couldn’t stand by while New Mexicans watch opportunities to own their first home or afford home repairs disappear. That is why I have fought for the Financial CHOICE Act, to do away with Dodd-Frank and reform our financial system so that hard-working people and families come first. I’ll continue to fight to fix the real root problems in our financial system.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-advance-energy-infrastructure,PEARCE VOTES TO ADVANCE ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE,2017-07-19,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (July 19, 2017) The U.S. House of Representatives today passed two key bills to modernize U.S. energy infrastructure. “New Mexico is a national leader in resource production and a key player in the transportation of energy resources across the southern border. By simplifying regulations on energy infrastructure projects and putting sound provisions in place that promote efficiency and transparency, our communities will have greater opportunities for economic expansion,” stated Rep. Pearce. “Southeastern New Mexico has seen huge growth in oil and gas production, creating more jobs and increasing revenues to the state. However, modern infrastructure needed to support this production is being delayed due to the lengthy bureaucratic processes, resulting in increased flaring activity. The House actions today provide essential reforms that bring greater certainty to companies that are tasked with improving our energy infrastructure. With these actions today, our nation is closer to an ‘all of the above’ energy plan that stimulates job growth and reinvests in New Mexico’s resource production.” H.R. 2883, the Promoting Cross-Border Energy Infrastructure Act, establishes guidelines for the construction, connection, operation, and maintenance of international border-crossing facilities. H.R. 2910, the Promoting Interagency Coordination for Review of Natural Gas Pipelines Act, reduces the bureaucracy within the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to promote timeliness and efficient reviews of infrastructure projects. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-holds-hearing-illicit-money-transfers,PEARCE HOLDS HEARING ON ILLICIT MONEY TRANSFERS,2017-07-18,2017,2017-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (July 18, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce led the Subcommittee on Terrorism and Illicit Finance hearing on “Managing Terrorism Financing Risk in Remittances and Money Transfers,” to examine the risks that are inherent in the use of money service businesses (MSBs), remittance payments, and other value-transfer systems.   “The size and complexity of the financial system in the United States and continuous innovation means our financial entities have a greater chance of being exploited for money laundering or terrorist financing.  It is important that safe, legitimate, and affordable options for transferring money through regulated and transparent methods exist in these communities,” stated Rep. Pearce. “The threat from terrorist financing is constantly evolving and requires law enforcement, financial regulators, intelligence agencies, policymakers, and the financial sector to quickly adapt.  In today’s hearing, we explored the various channels of money transferring to better understand and combat vulnerabilities that can have a great effect on our nation’s security.” Watch today’s hearing by clicking on the image below or here. Background Any financial institution or business, payment system, or medium of exchange has the potential to be exploited for money laundering or terrorist financing. Terrorist groups and transnational criminal organizations will exploit all forms of asset transfer, whether through formal banking channels, money services businesses (MSBs), or other legitimate remittance networks, or through informal and unregulated value-transfer systems. When remittances and other payment methods are exploited in particular geographic regions or among certain groups of people, so-called “de-risking” can push customers into less regulated, underground systems. Efforts to strengthen formal financial networks should also ensure these less-transparent, informal financial systems do not provide a safe, opaque alternative for terrorists and criminals to transfer money. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-takes-part-hearing-blm-permitting-process,PEARCE TAKES PART IN HEARING ON BLM PERMITTING PROCESS,2017-06-30,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 30, 2017) The House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources yesterday held a hearing to determine how the permitting process for energy production on federal land can be made more efficient. “Funds from the production of oil and gas make up roughly one third of New Mexico general fund revenues. With a greater focus on unleashing our nation’s energy production abilities, New Mexico has the opportunity to become a stronger leader nationally and globally. To do this, however, we must unwind the burdensome regulations that have piled on the natural resources production industry over the years, and clear the backlog of permit applications that take roughly 300 days to complete in New Mexico. We look over into Texas and see the oil rigs running, producing revenues for their economies, but also good-paying jobs for people who need them most – New Mexico can benefit from this production just as much as Texas. By cutting inefficiencies, we can start the process of pulling New Mexico out of the mud, while ensuring our state receives the hard-earned revenues it deserves for a more prosperous future.” In Fiscal Year 2016, the oil and gas industry contributed $1.6 billion to the New Mexico general fund. These funds are used for New Mexico schools, teacher salaries, law enforcement and other essential services. Permitting delays in the Carlsbad Bureau of Land Management (BLM) office have reached roughly 300 days in some cases, which has pushed investment to Texas. Some predictions claim that these administrative problems cost New Mexico $800,000 a day in state severance. New Mexico Oil and Gas Association Executive Director, Ryan Flynn, was a panelist at yesterday’s hearing and cited that roughly 50-100 jobs could come with the operation of each oil rig. He also discussed a number of these issues and expressed thoughts and ideas on how to fix these problems. Watch a clip from today’s hearing here, or by clicking on the image below. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-backs-bills-safer-communities-calls-better-immigration-system,"PEARCE BACKS BILLS FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES, CALLS FOR BETTER IMMIGRATION SYSTEM",2017-06-29,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 29, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3003, No Sanctuary for Criminals Act, and H.R. 3004, Kate’s Law, to combat sanctuary cities and enhance public safety. H.R. 3003 will work to prevent sanctuary cities by withholding certain federal grants from cities that refuse to comply with our nation’s immigration laws.  “We in New Mexico know firsthand the challenges that come with a broken and outdated immigration system. However, failures and flaws intertwined in our system are no excuse for cities to willfully ignore the laws of this nation. All levels of government should be responsible to follow and enforce the laws of our nation. It is the responsibility of Congress to work with the Administration to do all we can to secure our border, reform immigration policies to ensure easy, fair, and timely visas can be obtained, and provide respect and certainty to every individual living in our nation.” On July 1st, 2015, Kate Steinle was murdered on a San Francisco pier by an individual who had seven prior felony convictions and was deported on five separate occasions. H.R. 3004, Kate’s Law, will increase penalties for individuals who reenter the United Sates after being convicted of a felony and deported. “Congress must do all it can to keep our communities safe. Kate’s Law does this by increasing the penalties associated with repeated illegal entry into the United States. This act, along with the No Sanctuary for Criminals Act, cannot occur in a vacuum without Congress taking necessary steps forward to address the larger issue at hand – our nation’s vulnerable immigration system. More must be done to create a visa program that provides individuals and families around the world looking for a better life with safer, faster, and a more just system.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-introduces-bill-honor-bataan-veterans,PEARCE INTRODUCES BILL TO HONOR BATAAN VETERANS,2017-06-28,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 28, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce yesterday introduced legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the troops and nurses who fought in the defense of Bataan, Corregidor, Guam, Wake Island and the Philippine Archipelago during World War II. “This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the Bataan Death March. The events associated with the March, and the March itself, hold tremendous historical significance for New Mexico. Nearly 2,000 of the men involved were members of New Mexico National Guard units. The Battle in the Philippines, especially the Bataan Death March, and ensuing internment, forced so many to face unspeakable horrors in the name of freedom. Our nation must never forget the heroism and courage of all those involved. The actions of these incredible men and women embody the qualities we have come to use when defining the Greatest Generation. I am truly honored to be able to introduce this bill with my colleagues to ensure our nation rightly recognizes the service and sacrifices of the troops and nurses involved in Bataan and all associated Battles in the Philippines. ” Background On December 8, 1941, one day after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the 200th Coast Artillery Regiment began taking fire from enemy troops, as did many other units in the region. Under General Douglas McArthur’s command, the U.S. Armed Forces in coordination with Filipino soldiers admirably held the Japanese forces at bay for months, changing the momentum of the war in the Pacific. With their main fighting force cut off from supplies and facing starvation, many of troops defending the Pacific region were forced to surrender into enemy hands. Over the following week, these service members endured a 65 mile march with no food, water, or medical supplies resulting in thousands of deaths, known today as the “Bataan Death March”. The prisoner camps, where the survivors of the march were detained, were just as horrific with abysmal conditions; leading to an estimated 400 deaths per day. Fewer than 50 survivors are alive today. Receiving a Congressional Gold Medal is the highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions that Congress can give. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-proposed-rule-rolling-back-wotus,PEARCE STATEMENT ON PROPOSED RULE ROLLING BACK WOTUS,2017-06-28,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 27, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers proposed a rule to rollback the “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) Rule:                                “This is great news for stronger job growth throughout New Mexico. Under the WOTUS Rule, Washington bureaucrats were given complete authority to regulate small streams along with natural and manmade ditches on lands owned by farmers, ranchers, and small businesses. This unlawful expansion of power proposed by the Obama Administration would drive up costs for landowners and cost thousands of jobs. I’m pleased to see the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers recommit to strengthening rural economies.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-o%E2%80%99rourke-reintroduce-border-accountability-bill,"PEARCE, OROURKE REINTRODUCE BORDER ACCOUNTABILITY BILL",2017-06-22,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 22, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce (NM-02) along with Congressman Beto O’Rourke (TX-16) reintroduced the Border Enforcement Accountability, Oversight, and Community Engagement Act. “It is Congress’s responsibility to ensure the communities along the border region, and the Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) agents assigned to protect it, have the resources they need to be safe and secure where they live and work. For those who live on the border, a certain level of oversight, as with all areas of the government, is important for the day-to-day interaction CBP has with surrounding communities. For CBP agents, this means providing them with the training and tools to achieve their security mission,” stated Rep. Pearce. “I am proud to join Congressman O’Rourke again this Congress to push needed reform for the safety and security of our border regions. Together, we can leave party lines behind to move towards real solutions that better protect our communities, CBP agents, and nation from vulnerabilities along the border.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-voices-priorities-new-mexico-resources-and-lands,PEARCE VOICES PRIORITIES OF NEW MEXICO RESOURCES AND LANDS,2017-06-22,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 22, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today voiced New Mexico land and resource priorities at the House Committee on Natural Resources hearing with Department of the Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke. “New Mexico is rich with natural wonders and abundant resources. From natural resource production, to the management and maintenance of federal lands, New Mexican’s are greatly affected by decisions that come out of the Department of the Interior. Today, I was able to highlight a number of issues that affect New Mexico jobs, our economy, and the overall well-being of folks in rural communities with Secretary Zinke. I look forward to continuing my work in Congress and with the Department of the Interior to create more opportunities for success in New Mexico.” Watch Rep. Pearce at today’s House Committee on Natural Resources Hearing here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-introduces-bill-increase-public-access-federal-lands,PEARCE INTRODUCES BILL TO INCREASE PUBLIC ACCESS TO FEDERAL LANDS,2017-06-20,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 20, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today introduced a bill to increase access to public lands for hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting. The Make Public Lands Public Act will amend the Land and Water Conservation Fund to increase public access to federal lands by maintaining and restoring existing roads, trails, and rights of way. “In New Mexico and across the west, private, state, and federal lands are intermingled, resulting in a checkerboard issue that diminishes access to public lands for hunting, fishing, and shooting sports,” stated Rep. Pearce. “These lands belong to the people, and we must ensure that sportsmen and women have the ability to participate in outdoor recreation as their parents and grandparents did before them. This bill will not only bring greater recreational enjoyment and economic growth to New Mexico, but will increase conservation efforts that are funded by these activities.” Rep. Pearce’s bill is supported by the Boone and Crockett Club, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), and the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF). ""The Boone and Crockett Club applauds Congressman Steve Pearce’s efforts to improve public access to more public lands for hunting, fishing, and shooting sports,” stated Club President Ben Hollingsworth. “Increasing access to our public lands for sportsmen and women will foster economic growth and increase jobs, while improving conservation through the fees paid by hunters and fishermen. This bill will ensure that outdoor enthusiasts will be able to enjoy public lands for generations to come.” “The National Shooting Sports Foundation strongly supports Congressman Pearce’s legislation that would provide sportsmen and women, hunters and recreational shooters greater access to the lands they invest in to continue their traditions,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF’s senior vice president and general counsel.  “This legislation, along with the initiatives of Secretaries Ryan Zinke and Sonny Purdue, demonstrate the commitment Americans can expect from their government in supporting their outdoor and shooting sports heritage and preserving the ability to access public lands for future generations.  We look forward to this legislation moving forward and eventually becoming law.” “Research tells us that a lack of access to public land is one of the primary barriers to participation in hunting. Federal lands that are technically ‘open’ but inaccessible to the public, often due to the fact that the Federal lands are ‘landlocked’ by private property, contribute to this problem. We applaud Congressman Pearce for his efforts to address this issue by securing public hunting, fishing and recreational shooting access for current and future generations, and thereby truly ‘Making Public Lands Public,’” stated Jeff Crane, CSF President. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-holds-subcommittee-hearing-virtual-currency,PEARCE HOLDS SUBCOMMITTEE HEARING ON VIRTUAL CURRENCY,2017-06-12,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 8, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today led a House Financial Services Subcommittee on Terrorism and Illicit Finance hearing entitled “Virtual Currency: Financial Innovation and National Security Implications”: “Innovation revolutionizes and simplifies our lives on a daily basis. In the last 30 years, we have seen the emergence of the internet as an open source and accessible tool. Part of this revolution has been the emergence of digital financial innovation from small business lending to virtual wallets. The benefits are clear – families in underserved areas are finding more choice and options than ever before. People can pay for their goods in-store without the need for cards or cash,” stated Rep. Pearce. “The implication, of course, of this greater development and exploration into the digital age is the inability of government and regulatory bodies to keep up with the pace of advancement. Technology in the financial space is no exception. Today’s hearing served as one of many conversations I will lead on examining how virtual currencies can pose a risk to our national currencies and the measures we can take to keep our nation safe.” Watch today’s hearing here.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-pass-financial-choice-act-protect-rural-communities-local-banks,"PEARCE VOTES TO PASS THE FINANCIAL CHOICE ACT, PROTECT RURAL COMMUNITIES, LOCAL BANKS",2017-06-08,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 8, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 10, the Financial CHOICE Act: “Some of the hardest hit areas of Dodd-Frank’s overly burdensome regulatory structure are the poor, rural areas like many of our communities in New Mexico. Dodd-Frank - with the help of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau - made it almost impossible for banks to lend to anyone who was just trying to buy their first home, pay for medical bills, or do some emergency repairs. Rather than fix the real root cause of the financial crisis, Dodd-Frank put some of the heaviest burdens on the backs of community banks and hardworking taxpayers. I’m pleased to see the House pass the Financial CHOICE Act today to put an end to this crippling regulatory regime. It is my goal to see that even the most economically fragile in New Mexico have access to opportunities and resources to help them earn their way to success.” Rep. Pearce spoke on the House Floor today in support of the Financial CHOICE Act. Watch here or click on the image below. Transcript “Thank you Mr. Speaker. Thank you gentlemen from Texas. Credit is one of the most powerful devices of our financial system. It was designed over time by modern societies. In some countries, credit is simply not available to those who need it the most - people at the bottom of the income ladder. In the United States, we’ve got a well-developed system where is credit is available no matter how bad your credit rating might be. That is, it was available until the Dodd-Frank regulation created the CFPB. In the second district of New Mexico, 50% of the homes are mobile homes - manufactured housing. The Dodd-Frank [Act] immediately began to show that they had no clue about how rural societies worked, and put into place regulations that choked off the access - of most of our homeowners - to manufactured housing. That wasn’t enough for the CFPB, they began to then set forward qualified mortgages which then choked off traditional mortgages to many people in the second district of New Mexico. Many people in New Mexico will buy their first mobile home and they’ll live in that, then over a good life, they’ll buy eight or ten more. Then they sell those one at a time. Usually the people who can’t get credit any other way. CFPB simply shut that down. So now seniors living in their senior years with less income, but people who need the loans the most having one more source of credit dried up to them. The rules that affect the rural mortgages small businesses were so punitive that the economy in New Mexico has never yet come back. It’s not just that ‘The Choice Act’ is the right choice in the rural areas, in our areas, it’s the only choice. I would support H.R. 10 and ask my colleagues to vote ‘yes’ on the bill. Yield back the balance of my time.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/editorial/washington-examiner-how-cfpb-ignores-rural-families,WASHINGTON EXAMINER: How the CFPB ignores rural families,2017-06-05,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Congressman Steve Pearce (NM-02) Credit is one of the most powerful devices of the financial system designed over time by modern societies. It gives people the freedom to spend money now – whether to cover a medical expense, an emergency repair, buy a home, or send their child to school – and pay it off later. While it accelerated the speed of innovation around the world, it also changed people’s spending habits, however, not always for the best. In some countries, credit is simply not available to those who need it most, the people at the bottom of the income ladder. In the United States, we’ve developed a highly sophisticated system with opportunity available to all. While some people abuse this power and act carelessly in repaying their loans - resulting in bad credit scores and higher interest rates that they have to pay – credit is still available to almost everyone in this country. That is, until the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), or Bureau, was created in the Dodd-Frank legislation passed when Nancy Pelosi controlled the House of Representatives, Harry Reid controlled the Senate, and President Obama was firmly installed in his first term. This Bureau created by the Dodd-Frank Act was tasked with protecting consumers - a laudable goal. Very quickly though the Bureau began to show it had no idea how or why many elements of the credit markets were established. As they began to regulate those elements out of existence, credit to the poor began to dry up. People in New Mexico soon began to see their opportunities disappear because their sources of credit were diminishing before their eyes. Half of the homes in the 2nd congressional district of New Mexico are manufactured housing. The Bureau took several actions that resulted in all but one or two banks to quit lending for those. It took a mother in Las Cruces several years to refinance her family’s mobile home, simply because no one in town was offering the specific line of credit she needed under her financial circumstances. These harmful regulations even made their way over to traditional housing loans. With a tool called Qualified Mortgage, the Bureau dried up many of these loans or made the loans hard and complex to apply for... Read Rep. Pearce's full op-ed in the Washington Examiner here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-kicks-meetings-mexican-officials-seeking-strengthen-border-commerce,PEARCE KICKS OFF MEETINGS WITH MEXICAN OFFICIALS SEEKING TO STRENGTHEN BORDER COMMERCE RELATIONSHIP,2017-06-05,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 5, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce along with colleagues from the United States House of Representatives are meeting today with representatives of the Mexican legislature and government as part of the U.S. – Mexico Inter-Parliamentary Group (IPG). The IPG today will focus on the U.S. economic standpoint with Mexico as well as trade relations, border security enhancements, immigration, and other issues pertaining to the relationship between the US and Mexico.  “It’s great to be here with my colleagues leading discussions to preserve and strengthen the strong bilateral relationship our nation has with Mexico. Representing roughly 180 miles of the border with Mexico, I understand the importance of our partnership with Mexico, especially as it affects the local economy and safety of communities here in New Mexico. I look forward to meeting with my Mexican counterparts today to look for actions that can be taken to strengthen economic opportunity for New Mexico.” Speaker Paul Ryan appointed Rep. Pearce to serve on the U.S.-Mexico Inter-Parliamentary Group in the 115th Congress. The group was established in 1961 to encourage a comprehensive discussion between the United States and Mexico on issues that affect border trade, security, and international crime. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-withdrawal-paris-climate-deal,PEARCE STATEMENT ON WITHDRAWAL FROM PARIS CLIMATE DEAL,2017-06-01,2017,2017-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 1, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after President Trump made the decision to withdrawal from the Paris Climate Deal: “Any agreement the United States enters into regarding climate or emissions must ensure affordable and reliable energy is available to every New Mexican family. We all agree that we want clean air and clean water, but the United States cannot saddle the global burden of change on the backs of the American people. Under both President Bush and President Obama, the United States made enormous strides in reducing emissions and developing cleaner energy generation, but we cannot control nor guarantee the actions of other countries in this effort.  Since day one, the Paris Climate agreement has been unattainable for New Mexico and our nation. The Agreement will force American energy producers to dramatically change their business or shut down, ultimately limiting options for families across New Mexico, while allowing some of the worst global actors to take action as they see fit. This has never been a fair deal for Americans.” In 2016, President Obama unilaterally bypassed the Constitution by signing the Paris Climate Deal without proper authorization of the U.S. Senate. Read Rep. Pearce’s statement on the original Paris Climate Deal here.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-updated-cbo-score-ahca,PEARCE STATEMENT ON UPDATED CBO SCORE OF AHCA,2017-05-31,2017,2017-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 24, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement after the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released the updated score of the American Health Care Act (AHCA): “Our nation’s health care system is in complete collapse, and Congress was left with two options – fix it, or allow hardworking Americans to shoulder the cost. Millions of Americans, in New Mexico and around the nation, are facing skyrocketing premiums, increasing deductibles, and diminishing access to care. The American Health Care Act is the first step of many to correct the root problems that are intertwined in our health care system. Today’s CBO score confirms our efforts in Congress will work towards lowering premiums, reducing our nation’s deficit, and lifting the financial burden off the backs of taxpayers. Only then can we empower middle-income and working-class folks by delivering real solutions instead of empty promises.” Read Rep. Pearce's statement on the AHCA here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z