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://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-sec-jewells-opolitical-attacks-disrespect-west-attempt-shift-sage-hen-habitat,"Amodei: Sec. Jewell's Ôpolitical attacks' disrespect West, attempt to shift Sage Hen habitat responsibility",2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

CARSON CITY, NEV. – Today, Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) responded to Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell’s statement regarding a rider in the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015 delaying for one year the potential Endangered Species Act (ESA) listing of the Sage Hen. He released the following statement:

“After nearly two years on the job, I am pleased Secretary Jewell is now ready to engage on the issue of the Sage Hen. I want to welcome her to the discussion. Back in March, in explaining why Interior had once again failed to submit a meaningful budget request for habitat conservation, Secretary Jewell testified to the Interior Appropriations Committee that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) needed time to finalize its 98 resource management plans (RMPs) across 11 Western states encompassing more than 186 million acres of habitat. At the time, she indicated no appreciation for the fact that the vast majority of those RMPs would not be completed until after the decision to list the Sage Hen was made. Nine months later, I find it perplexing she has become incredibly comfortable criticizing Republicans and Democrats in Congress for providing precisely what she said was needed: one last chance for her to show some leadership and request funding to fulfill Interior’s habitat responsibilities as the majority land owner in the West.

“I find Secretary Jewell’s criticism all the more interesting since her boss signed the appropriations bill in record time. I am still looking for her indignant opposition to the one-year delay when the provision was transparently and fully discussed before the House Appropriations Committee months ago. The resort to shallow political attacks does not hide the fact Ms. Jewell’s department chose, through budgetary inaction, not to make any attempt to avoid an endangered species listing. This is all the more insidious, since the habitat owner, BLM, and the Endangered Species Act Administrator, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, both work under Secretary Jewell’s supervision. So, in effect, on this issue, the Secretary would apparently like to simultaneously perform the roles of judge, jury and prosecutor and shame on the U.S. Congress and the President for passing a bill, which does not allow her to do that.

“I look forward to an in depth discussion on the issue to start the 114th Congress, instead of CYA news releases issued when nobody is in town. I hope, after further consideration, Secretary Jewell does not believe this sort of incendiary communication strategy is the way to work on the habitat loss and fragmentation issues. There are a lot of great people working very hard on the Sage Hen issue in the West and Interior needs to show some respect to them instead of defaulting to tired political agendas.

“If the Sage Hen listing is all about habitat and habitat health, then an on the ground, well-founded funding commitment by Interior would seem to be a necessity and that is where the focus should be. Unless they would prefer an ESA listing to hide behind in an attempt to further erode multiple use in the West.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=e88cc185-22d3-46e1-ba95-0f5adfffb61c,Heller Brings Tax Relief to Nevadans,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the Senate voted to pass H.R. 5771, the Tax Increase Prevention Act:
“As our state economy continues to improve the last thing Nevadans need are tax increases.  I’m proud that through my hard efforts, Congress has extended the state and local sales tax deduction and the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act to cover the 2014 tax year.
“These critical tax relief measures ensures lower and middle class Nevadans will be able to keep more of their hard earned money in their pockets which will help grow our local economy,” said Dean Heller.
Nevada is one the several states that have elected to use sales taxes rather than income taxes to finance government services. The state and local sales tax deduction helps level an uneven play field by ensuring that Nevada is afforded the same treatment in the federal tax code as states with an income tax.
The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act assures homeowners owing more on their mortgages than their homes are now worth will not be hit with additional income taxes if part of their mortgage loan is forgiven, such as through a “short sale.”
Heller previously wrote to Congressional leaders requesting the extension of the state and local sales tax deduction and Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act.
Heller also previously introduced legislation to extend the state and local sales tax deduction and Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act. 
As a member of the Senate Finance Committee in the 114th Congress, which has jurisdiction over these issues, Senator Heller will work to bring tax relief to more lower and middle class Nevadans. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=e35e0317-b18c-4b41-a72b-a7efff3c1d62,Heller Announces Committee Assignments for Next Congress,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) released this statement after being named to the following United States Senate Committees: Finance; Commerce, Science, & Transportation; Banking, Housing, & Urban Affairs; Veterans’ Affairs; and the Special Committee on Aging for the 114th Congress.
“I am pleased with these committee assignments as we begin a new Congress in January. All of these assignments allow me to achieve my primary goal: serving the people of Nevada. Having a seat on both the Senate Finance Committee and the Special Committee on Aging allows me to strengthen and protect important programs to Nevadans like Medicare and Social Security. As the Senate seeks to pass transportation legislation in the new Congress, my seat on the Commerce, Science, & Transportation Committee ensures top priorities for Nevada such as Interstate 11 do not go unnoticed. As Nevadans recover from one of the worst housing markets in history, I will continue to protect their interests as a member of the Banking, Housing, & Urban Affairs Committee. With nearly 300,000 veterans living in the state, I will continue to fight for the rights of veterans to receive proper medical care and treatment while serving on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee. 
“Each of these committees provides an avenue for me to best serve the people of Nevada. I’m excited for this new Congress and look forward to being Nevada’s voice on these top committees.”  
The Senate Finance Committee is one of the oldest and most powerful committees in the United States Senate. Jurisdiction for the committee is vast as it covers tax, trade, commerce, health, national security, labor, Social Security, and monetary issues. Membership assignments for the committee are coveted by Senators and only reserved for senior members of the Senate. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-one-year-sage-hen-delay-necessary-and-warranted,Amodei: One-year sage hen delay is necessary and warranted,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, language introduced by Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) to delay for one year any potential Endangered Species Act (ESA) listing of the sage hen was included in H.R. 83, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015, which passed the House 219 to 206. Amodei released the following statement:

“I would like to thank my House and Senate colleagues for acknowledging the following facts: As the largest land owner in the West, Federal government action regarding land use has a profound impact on the resources and economy of the West. Consequently, those actions ought to be well and objectively thought out and funded by the federal government.

“Our advocacy for a one-year delay in the sage hen listing is necessitated not by political agenda, but by the simple fact that over the course of 10 years, the Department of Interior has made essentially no funding requests for sage hen habitat protection or restoration. The delay is even more appropriate in view of the dual revelation by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) that they believe 1) multiple use of federal land in the West should end and 2) that fuels management to minimize wildland fire impact on habitat and habitat restoration are not effective solutions for habitat loss due to catastrophic wildland fire.

“Coming so late in the process, these revelations only give strength to the claims of those who from the beginning feared this is really about ending multiple use in the West. For example, in a state like Nevada where, during the last 25 years, 6.5 to seven million acres have burned, while we have permitted during the same time approximately 150,000 acres for mining. Multiple use is not the threat to sage hen habitat. The credibility factor of Interior agencies is further eroded by their laser-like focus on the range cattle industry while ignoring the presence of wild horses in sage hen habitat.

“For years, many of us have worked transparently in earnest to address the condition of sage hen habitat in the West and can put this delay to good use in doing the right thing for all habitat resources. However, I am unaware of the fact-based foundation for Interior’s drawing lines on maps and focusing on human activity when in our part of the country the threats are wildland fire and invasive species. If it is really about the habitat, the preoccupation with 15 percent of the threat while ignoring the other 85 percent is yet another example of forwarding political agendas ahead of dealing with environmental facts and solving the resource problem.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/house-passes-government-funding-bill,House passes government funding bill,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today voted for and the House passed H.R. 83, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015, 219 to 206. The bill would fully fund 11 of 12 regular appropriations bills through September 30, 2015 and would fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under a Continuing Resolution (CR) until February 27, 2015.

The move to place DHS under a CR until March would prevent a government shutdown and enable new Republican majorities in the House and the Senate to take up policy solutions to end the President’s executive order on immigration. The CR would also prevent the Administration from enacting new policies within DHS during that time.

“As always, federal spending is a series of value judgments. Given the composition of this Congress, which is coming to a close, I think Nevadans can claim a number of victories in terms of the funding priorities, spending reductions and reforms contained in this bill,” said Amodei. “We did our jobs and now we can move ahead to the next Congress with a new Republican Majority in the Senate where frankly we will be in a much better position to continue to reduce spending and to check the overreach of the executive branch.”

Highlights of H.R. 83:

Spending– Abides by the terms set in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013. Since 2011, House Republicans reduced discretionary by $176 billion. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), “the federal budget deficit for fiscal year (FY) 2014 will amount to $506 billion, CBO estimates, roughly $170 billion lower than the shortfall recorded in 2013. At 2.9 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), this year's deficit will be much smaller than those of recent years, which reached almost 10 percent of GDP in 2009.”

Sage Hen – Prohibits listing the sage hen as an endangered for one year. The bill also includes $15 million for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for sage hen habitat conservation efforts.

Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT)– Includes $372 million for PILT funds to local governments to help offset losses in property taxes due to nontaxable federal lands within their jurisdictions. When combined with the PILT funding authorized in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the total for PILT in the next year is the full amount of $442 million.

Other Interior provisions– Provides $3.5 billion for wildfire fighting and prevention programs at the full 10-year average and $526 million for hazardous fuels reduction, which is $21 million above the President’s budget request. Funds the BLM at $1.1 billion – $14 million above the FY 2014 enacted level. Protects ranchers from regulations that increase costs and harm livelihoods by prohibiting new grazing fees on BLM and Forest Service lands. Provides additional funding for range management to reduce the backlog of grazing permit applications. Exempts livestock producers from onerous greenhouse gas regulations.

Dodd Frank -- Relieves farmers and other rural producers from burdensome regulations requiring excessive collateral to obtain loans.

IRS-- Provides $10.9 billion for the IRS – a reduction of $345.6 million below FY 2014 and $1.5 billion below the President’s request. This level brings the IRS below its FY 2008 total. The bill does not provide any additional funds for the IRS to implement the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and prohibits the IRS from targeting organizations based on political beliefs or for exercising their First Amendment rights.

Defense-- Fully funds military pay raises authorized in the NDAA and prohibits the transfer or release of Guantanamo detainees into the U.S.

Affordable Care Act-- Cuts the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) by $10 million.

EPA-- Cuts $60 million, which marks the fifth straight year of cuts amounting to a 21 percent reduction in the EPA budget since FY 2010 and a decrease of 2,000 positions, returning the agency to 1989 levels. Does not include a White House proposal to spend $66 million on new or expanded EPA regulatory programs.

Army Corps of Engineers-- Prohibits the Army Corps of Engineers from changing the definition of “fill material” and from requiring permits for normal farming practices.

Veterans Administration-- Provides $2.5 billion for processing VA disability claims to end the backlog and rescinds $41 million in performance bonuses at the VA.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/success-northern-nevada-lands-bills-pass-senate-set-become-law,"Success: Northern Nevada lands bills pass Senate, set to become law",2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, in a big moment for Northern Nevada, a historic package of lands bills – six introduced by Rep. Mark Amodei (NV-2) and one by Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4) –passed the Senate as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Also included in the defense spending bill was Rep. Horsford’s Tule Springs legislation for Southern Nevada. The bills now move on to the President to be signed into law.

“I want to congratulate Humboldt County Commission Chairman Jim French, Humboldt County Manager Bill Deist, Yerington Mayor George Dini, Lyon County Manager Jeff Page, Storey County Commissioner Marshall McBride, Storey County Manager Pat Whitten, former Carlin Mayor and present Elko County Commissioner Cliff Eklund, NAS Fallon Commanding Officer CAPT Leif Steinbaugh, NAS Fallon Community Plans & Liaison Officer John Dirickson, former Fernley Mayor LeRoy Goodman, former Fernley City Manager Chris Good, Elko County Commissioners Glen Guttry and Charlie Myers, Assistant Elko County Manager Randy Brown, Te-Moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Chairman Davis Gonzales and Te-Moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Elko Band Council Chairman Gerald Temoke,” said Amodei. “I want to thank the people of Northern Nevada for their patience and hope they will benefit from these measures. And I want to applaud the Senate for getting that base hit with runners in scoring position.”

“I also want to extend my thanks to former House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, who, just before he left Congress, promised me he would bring these bills to the House floor for a vote. He was a man of his word and Nevada owes him a debt of gratitude,” said Amodei.

The Nevada lands bills poised to become law are:

H.R. 433, the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act, would designate approximately 26,000 acres within the Blue Lakes and Alder Creek Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) as the Pine Forest Range Wilderness Area and release approximately 1,000 acres of the existing WSA lands. The bill would also direct the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to exchange federal lands surrounding nearby ranches for private parcels within the existing WSAs to allow for management of public lands and ensure the economic viability of privately owned ranches.

H.R. 696, the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act, would enable the City of Yerington to partner with Nevada Copper to purchase, at fair market value, and develop approximately 10,000 acres of BLM land surrounding the Pumpkin Hollow project site for industrial, recreational, and infrastructure purposes. The bill would also designate approximately 48,000 acres in Lyon County as the Wovoka Wilderness Area.

H.R. 1167, the Restoring Storey County Act, would transfer the surface rights to approximately 1,745 acres of BLM land in Virginia City to Storey County to resolve conflicting ownership and title claims.

H.R. 1168, the Carlin Economic Self-Determination Act, would convey to the City of Carlin approximately 1,400 acres of BLM land surrounding the city for the purpose of multi-use development.

H.R. 1169, the Naval Air Station Fallon Housing and Safety Development Act, would transfer an approximately 400 acre BLM parcel within the confines of the Fallon Naval Air Station to the Secretary of the Navy. This land would be used for housing Navy families and would provide needed flexibility to grow the base.

H.R. 1170, the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act, would convey to the City of Fernley approximately 9,114 acres of BLM and Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) lands within the city boundaries for the purpose of multi-use development.

H.R. 2015, the Las Vegas Valley Public Land and Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument Act, would establish Nevada’s first national monument and convey BLM land suitable for economic development in Clark and Nye Counties, additions to the Great Basin College in Pahrump, College of Southern Nevada and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas (UNLV) campuses, the creation of the Nellis Dunes OHV park and an expansion of Nellis Air Force Base.

H.R. 2455, the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act, would convey to Elko County and the Te-moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians of Nevada approximately 275 acres of BLM land to be used as a motocross, bicycle, off-highway vehicle, or stock car racing area.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1aa48073-4aa5-4b38-a442-c4e04e36fb61,Heller Applauds Passage of NDAA Legislation,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the United States Senate passed important Nevada public lands priorities as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) earlier today:
“The Passage of FY 2015 NDAA legislation is yet another milestone towards positive change for both the country and the state of Nevada. It will not only spur economic growth across the United States but will also greatly impact the state. Through this legislation, we free up thousands of acres of land suitable for commercial development, mining, energy generation, ranching, and timber work, while conserving some of our state’s most beautiful areas so future generations can camp, hike, hunt, and fish. This legislation will benefit Nevada. I look forward to it reaching the President’s desk and being signed into law.” 
Senator Heller spoke on the Senate floor about the importance of this legislation. His speech and its context can be found here. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=39b84a51-7c02-4184-acdc-ba524832d723,RECOGNIZING THE NATIONAL FINALS RODEO,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"RECOGNIZING THE NATIONAL FINALS RODEO 
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
December 11,2014
Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize the annual National Finals Rodeo, which takes place at the Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The National Finals Rodeo has been held in Las Vegas for the past 30 years of the event’s 55 year history.  Often noted as the foremost championship rodeo event in the United States, I, along with my fellow Nevadans, am proud that it has called the Silver State home for so many years.
The National Finals Rodeo was established in 1958 by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association in order to determine the world champions in various events from bull riding to tie-down roping. First held in Dallas in 1959, the National Finals Rodeo was held in many different cities until 1984, when Las Vegas became its permanent home. An integral part of the Las Vegas community for 30 years, the National Finals Rodeo has brought more than 170,000 fans annually to see some of our nation’s toughest cowboys and cowgirls compete in ten days of competition. This event has become a yearly tradition not only for Nevadans, but for people across the nation and the world. As rodeo lovers and horse enthusiasts, my wife Lynne and I were thrilled to attend this year’s event.
The National Finals Rodeo offers Nevadans and rodeo goers nationwide a place to truly experience the gritty, energetic entertainment the Wild West is best known for. In one of the hardest hit regions during the recession, this event plays an integral role in Nevada’s tourism economy. Tourism continues to be a prominent economic driver within the Silver State, and I am thrilled to learn this event will be a part of the Las Vegas community through 2024.
I ask my colleagues to join me and all Nevadans in recognizing the National Finals Rodeo, a special event that has proudly called Las Vegas home for the past 30 years, and I would like to offer the best of luck to all who are participating in this year’s events.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=575cad1f-2205-4b56-9f63-0cc96da0f2de,CONGRATULATING LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR BRIAN KROLICKI,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRATULATING LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR BRIAN KROLICKI
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
December 11, 2014 
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Lieutenant Governor Brian Krolicki, of Stateline, for his decades of service to the State of Nevada.  After most recently serving as Nevada’s Lieutenant Governor for eight years, he will be retiring on January 5, 2015. It gives me great pleasure to congratulate my friend and colleague on his 24 years of hard work and dedication to the Silver State.
While serving as Nevada’s Secretary of State, I came to know Lieutenant Governor Krolicki not only as a trusted colleague, but also as a dear friend. While attending Stanford University, Lieutenant Governor Krolicki fell in love with Lake Tahoe, Nevada. After earning a bachelor’s degree in political science, he moved to Nevada. While maintaining his Silver State residence, he went on to become an investment banker in New York City and San Francisco. Lieutenant Governor Krolicki’s public service career began in 1990 when he was tapped to serve as Chief Deputy Treasurer to then State Treasurer Bob Seale. His many years of financial experience made him an ideal candidate for State Treasurer after the retirement of Treasurer Seale. Upon being sworn in as Treasurer in 1999, he began to tirelessly devote his efforts to the people of Nevada. His created the Nevada College Savings Plans, and was responsible for the successful roll-out and administration of the Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship. Under his leadership, Nevada saw its first upgrade in credit ratings in nearly 30 years.
After serving eight years as Treasurer, he sought the Lieutenant Governorship in 2006 and won by a sizeable margin. During Lieutenant Governor Krolicki’s two terms of service, he has ably focused on advancing the Silver State’s tourism industry all over the nation and around the globe. Lieutenant Governor Krolicki has served as Chairman of the Reno Tahoe Winter Games Coalition since 2006, and is actively fighting for Northern Nevada to host the 2026 Olympic Games.  This year, my wife Lynne and I were honored to participate in Nevada’s 150th Anniversary celebrations. As Chairman of the Nevada Sesquicentennial Commission that successfully carried out over 500 events, Lieutenant Governor Krolicki has once more shown his dedication to the State of Nevada.
As a devoted husband and proud father to three girls, Lieutenant Governor Krolicki stands as a shining example of someone who has dedicated his life to serving his community. I am grateful for his dedication and commitment to the people of the State of Nevada.  He exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and community service and should be proud of his long and meaningful career.  Today, I ask that all of my colleagues join me in thanking Lieutenant Governor Krolicki for his service to the Silver State and I offer my deepest appreciation for all that he has done to make Nevada an even better place.  I offer my best wishes for many successful and fulfilling years to come.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1e2801c2-af8a-4171-8f76-076284b21a71,Heller Reaction to Revised NFL Conduct Policy,2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) released the following statement after National Football League (NFL) owners approved a revised personal conduct policy introduced by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell: 
“I acknowledge the League’s efforts are a good first step toward addressing these issues. I look forward to reviewing the details of this new personal conduct policy in its entirety. If domestic violence and abuse are to be addressed appropriately in professional sports, players unions, like the NFL Players Association, must also rise to the occasion. Stopping domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse is more important than donning a team’s uniform on any given Sunday. 
“I know the Senate Commerce Committee will revisit this issue early next year and hope to be in touch with these professional leagues and their members as we approach that date.”  
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=7f0c6761-51e9-4dcd-90fa-68770aa74e1b,Heller Urges Support of Lands Provisions for Nevada,2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – Today, United States Senator Dean Heller spoke on the Senate Floor about his support of this year’s National Defense Authorization Act, specifically his support of some public lands provisions. The lands provisions include several Nevada public lands priorities that will grow the Nevada’s economy with mine expansion and development of public land.
REMARKS AS PREPARED:
I rise today to speak in support of some of the public lands provisions that were included in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act. 
Before I do so, I would first like to recognize the work Senators Levin and Inhofe have put into this bill and their dedication to reaching an agreement with the House so that this bill can move forward on time as it has for over 50 years.
As a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I hear every day about the sacrifices service members make to protect our country. 
Passing the authorization bill that helps ensure they have the equipment they need and the resources required to meet the mission they are tasked with is important.
While I am pleased the Senate will be moving forward on this bill, I would like to note that the bill’s reduction in service members’ benefits concerns me. I believe Members should have had the chance to debate and amend this, and I hope the Senate will have that opportunity in the future.
This year, the final defense bill includes several Nevada public lands priorities that will spur economic development and job creation in our state while enhancing U.S. national security.  I have been working on many of these proposals since I was first elected to Congress in 2006. 
I want to thank incoming Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chair Lisa Murkowksi for her leadership and work on this public lands package. 
We have been working together for years on many of the bills included in the package, and I’m glad to see them get across the finish line.
Let me first clarify that just because some of these bills are related to public lands does not mean that they do not have a direct relationship to defense and protecting our national security.  My Nevada Copper bill will increase domestic production of copper, the second most used mineral at the Department of the Defense as well as directly benefitting two bases located in the State of Nevada.
Mr. President, as you may know, roughly 85 percent of the land in Nevada is controlled by the federal government.  This presents our local and state governments with many unique challenges. Our communities’ economies are directly tied to the way the federal government manages those lands.
They often work closely with me to develop legislative solutions to their problems.  Whereas out east, local government can acquire land on their own to build public works projects; out west we unfortunately have to get Congress’ permission. 
That is why reducing the federal estate and increasing access to our public lands has been one of my top priorities in Congress, and this package goes a long way towards accomplishing these goals.
It resolves over sixty of these types of issues throughout the west.  In total, over 110,000 acres of land will be removed from federal ownership and utilized for mineral production, timber production, infrastructure projects and other community development. In addition, it releases approximately 26,000 acres of current wilderness study areas, which unlocks lands to be used for multiple-use.
It is important to discuss the eight Nevada provisions today, to show my colleagues here the many hoops our western communities have to go through to take the same steps that many eastern communities can accomplish in a day’s time. 
The Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act is a jobs bill that I first introduced while in the House but has been held up by Senate gridlock for years. 
This bill allows the City of Yerington to partner with Nevada Copper to develop roughly 12,500 acres of land surrounding the Nevada Copper Pumpkin Hollow project site to be used for mining activities, industrial and renewable energy development, and recreation. 
Senate passage is the final hurdle to more than 1,000 new jobs at an average wage of over $85,000 per year.  The mine will contribute nearly $25 million in property and net proceeds taxes per year that would be distributed to the State, Lyon County, their Schools, the hospital district, and the Mason Valley Fire Protection District.
In addition, Nevada Copper plans to invest $80 million in infrastructure for the mine and processing facilities that can be utilized to support other land uses and economic development.  This bill will transform the local economy of the one of the counties in our nation that is struggling most due to the recent economic downturn. 
As I said before, Copper is the second most used mineral at the Department of the Defense, and is considered an essential mineral for weapons production. 
Copper is also the primary mineral from which other strategic and critical metals like Rhenium are derived.  A domestic supply of this important resource greatly benefits our national security. 
Second – there is a provision in this package that will allow Naval Air Station Fallon to acquire over 400 acres of BLM land for a safety arc for an explosive ordinance handling facility and to construct the much needed family housing at the station. Both of these plans will greatly benefit mission operations and the quality of life for our brave service members serving there.  The station first asked for these lands over twenty years ago.  I am glad their wait will finally end.
Third – the package includes the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act, a proposal that has been in the works in Humboldt County for nearly a decade.  Just north of the Black Rock Desert, the Pine Forest offers a diverse landscape of sagebrush, aspen and rock formations. Scenic lakes and reservoirs offer world-class trout fisheries.
From the ranchers who make their livelihood on grazing allotments to conservationists’ intent on preserving a rugged landscape, anyone familiar with the place agrees it’s special. 
In addition to conserving these areas the bill releases areas from wilderness that needs watershed restoration and treatment due to a high wildfire threat.  It also provides for the construction of additional campsites and accommodations for motorized camping.
The initial work on the Pine Forest bill was grassroots driven, transparent, and ultimately supported unanimously by all stakeholders and local governments in this county. 
Fourth – the package includes the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act, another bill I first introduced in the 111th Congress as a member of the House.  This common-sense bill conveys 275 acres of BLM lands to Elko County for a public motocross park. Additionally, it provides 373 acres to the Elko Band of the Te-Moak Tribe for housing and tribal economic development.   
Outdoor recreation and tourism are such important parts of life in Nevada. Opening up this land will benefit the residents of Northern Nevada for years to come.
Fifth - this lands package includes the Las Vegas Valley Public Land and Tule Spring Fossil Beds National Monument Act, which is the culmination of several years of effort to conserve the ancient Tule Springs Fossil Beds while providing job creation opportunities and critical civilian and military infrastructure that will be necessary to meet the needs of the Las Vegas Valley. 
After working with stakeholders at every level, I am pleased that we can navigate a path forward for southern Nevada.
While serving in the House, I also introduced legislation in both the 110th and 111th Congresses to convey parcels of BLM land to the Nellis Air Force Base, to create an off-highway vehicle park in the Nellis Dunes, and to convey land to the Nevada System of Higher Education to expand educational opportunities for Southern Nevadans. 
Those smaller bills were ultimately included in S.973 this Congress, so I am pleased that over six years of work on this Tule Springs legislation will finally become a reality.  
The final three Nevada bills included in the lands package are newer proposals, but achieve long-term economic development objectives that the affected communities have long-pursued. 
The Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act provides Fernley the opportunity to purchase up to 9,114 acres of federal land within the city boundaries for the purpose of economic development. 
Fernley was incorporated in 2001. Since incorporation, the City has been working with private business partners and state and federal regional agencies to develop a long-term economic development plan.  These parcels have significant potential for commercial and industrial development, agriculture activities, and the expansion of community events. 
Similarly, the Carlin Economic Self-Determination Act allows Carlin to purchase up to 1,329 acres of BLM lands.  This city, located in Elko County, is completely landlocked by federal land.  Without this legislation, it would be impossible for their leaders to meet the demand for expansion their growing population needs. 
Finally, the Storey County provision conveys over 1,700 acres of BLM lands to Virginia City.  These properties have been occupied for decades by individuals who purchased them or acquired them legally, yet their continued residency is trespass according to the federal government. 
It is a very burdensome oversight by the federal government that must be resolved for the sake of my constituents.  They have struggled for years haunted by this error that is the result of no fault of their own.
As you can see, these small public lands proposals are going to make a MAJOR impact on Nevada’s economy.  They have all been developed at the local level and signed off on by the local communities
I understand my colleagues concerns that would have liked the opportunity to debate and vote on more amendments to this bill.  I too, had filed a number of amendments that I would have liked to see considered and will continue pushing those priorities next year.
Right now, Congress has the rare opportunity to pass this public lands package that enables important mining, energy development, ranching, and timber work to go forward generating economic and employment opportunities for my and other states and local residents.  Let’s get the government off these Nevadans’ backs and allow them to do what they do best – creating jobs. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=503dbe04-1a11-4fe1-bcc0-d917581db417,Heller Calls for VA Sec to Name Permanent Leadership for Reno VARO,2014-12-05,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after recently requesting for Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald to name a permanent director to the Reno Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office (VARO):
“This issue requires immediate attention and the Reno VARO needs a new permanent director to be assigned now. Poor management was the central cause of Nevada’s veterans being forced to wait so long for their disability benefits. It’s time for the VA to address the state’s VA claims backlog by naming a new director committed to fixing these issues at the Reno VARO. Delivering a high quality of care to America’s veterans remains a top priority of mine, and I will continue striving to make the VA the very best it can be.”
Attached is a copy of the letter Senator Heller sent to the Reno VARO. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/house-passes-nevada-lands-bills-again-part-defense-spending-bill,"House passes Nevada lands bills, again, as part of defense spending bill",2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, a historic package of Northern Nevada lands bills – six introduced by Rep. Mark Amodei (NV-2) and one by Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4) – passed the House again, 300 to 119, this time as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), in a move intended to help the Senate finally bring the legislation up for a vote in the waning days of the 113th Congress. Also included in the defense spending bill was Rep. Horsford’s Tule Springs legislation for Southern Nevada.

“In the House, I’m confident that we’ve exhausted regular order for these Nevada bills, with each of the provisions, in one form or another, passing out of committee and the full House two or more times,” said Amodei. “While their inclusion in the NDAA is not my preference, I am pleased that the Senate has found time to take up these worthy bills in the second to last week of Congress, which is more than can be said for hundreds of bills passed by the House. Although there is some opposition in the Senate to the inclusion of the legislation in the NDAA, I am hopeful the support exists for final passage when the Senate is expected to vote next week.”

The following measures important to Nevada were included in the NDAA and passed by the House:

H.R. 433, the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act, would designate approximately 26,000 acres within the Blue Lakes and Alder Creek Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) as the Pine Forest Range Wilderness Area and release approximately 1,000 acres of the existing WSA lands. The bill would also direct the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to exchange federal lands surrounding nearby ranches for private parcels within the existing WSAs to allow for management of public lands and ensure the economic viability of privately owned ranches.

H.R. 696, the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act, would enable the City of Yerington to partner with Nevada Copper to purchase, at fair market value, and develop approximately 10,000 acres of BLM land surrounding the Pumpkin Hollow project site for industrial, recreational, and infrastructure purposes. The bill would also designate approximately 48,000 acres in Lyon County as the Wovoka Wilderness Area.

H.R. 1167, the Restoring Storey County Act, would transfer the surface rights to approximately 1,745 acres of BLM land in Virginia City to Storey County to resolve conflicting ownership and title claims.

H.R. 1168, the Carlin Economic Self-Determination Act, would convey to the City of Carlin approximately 1,400 acres of BLM land surrounding the city for the purpose of multi-use development.

H.R. 1169, the Naval Air Station Fallon Housing and Safety Development Act, would transfer an approximately 400 acre BLM parcel within the confines of the Fallon Naval Air Station to the Secretary of the Navy. This land would be used for housing Navy families and would provide needed flexibility to grow the base.

H.R. 1170, the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act, would convey to the City of Fernley approximately 9,114 acres of BLM and Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) lands within the city boundaries at fair market value for the purpose of multi-use development.

H.R. 2015, the Las Vegas Valley Public Land and Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument Act, would establish Nevada’s first national monument and convey BLM land suitable for economic development in Clark and Nye Counties, additions to the Great Basin College in Pahrump, College of Southern Nevada and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas (UNLV) campuses, the creation of the Nellis Dunes OHV park and an expansion of Nellis Air Force Base.

H.R. 2455, the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act, would convey to Elko County and the Te-moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians of Nevada approximately 275 acres of BLM land to be used as a motocross, bicycle, off-highway vehicle, or stock car racing area.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=825263bb-5958-4f9f-acd8-bb919e1d47a0,CONGRATULATING MAYOR BOB CASHELL,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRATULATING MAYOR BOB CASHELL
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
December 4, 2014 
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Mayor Bob Cashell, of Reno, on his retirement.  After serving as the mayor of Reno for 12 years, Mayor Cashell presided over his last city council meeting on November 12th, 2014.  It gives me great pleasure to congratulate him, not only as a colleague, but also as a friend, on his retirement after more than 35 years of hard work and dedication to the Silver State.
 A devoted husband and proud father of four, Mayor Cashell stands as a shining example of someone who has dedicated his life to serving his community. Upon graduating from the Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, with a bachelor’s degree in business, Mayor Cashell moved to Reno to work as a truck driver and salesman for a small refining company in 1961.  Several years after moving to Nevada, Mayor Cashell and his colleagues were able to purchase a small casino-restaurant in 1967, which would later become known as Boomtown Casino and Hotel.  His impressive business expertise has allowed him to continue on to manage and own several large properties across Nevada and the United States.  Serving as the Chairman of the Board for his business, Cashell Enterprises, a hotel casino and management company, he quickly became a business leader within the local gaming community. After a long and distinguished career in gaming, Mayor Cashell decided that he also wanted to pursue a new endeavor and give back to his community.
Mayor Cashell’s public career began in 1979 when he ran for the University of Nevada System Board of Regents and was subsequently elected chairman by his peers.  After his tenure as a respected member of the Board, Mayor Cashell was then elected Lieutenant Governor for the State of Nevada in 1982.  In his role as Lieutenant Governor, he was instrumental in the founding of the Nevada Commission on Economic Development and the Nevada Commission on Tourism – both of  which he served on as Chairman. Upon being sworn in as mayor on November 13, 2002, Mayor Cashell worked diligently to ensure the city continues to thrive and to make Reno the renowned place for gaming that it is today. His roles in establishing the Truckee River Whitewater Park, opening the Community Assistance Center for the homeless, helping to extend the Reno Bowler’s Convention contract, and founding the YMCA Youth Soccer League are just a few of the accomplishments that exemplify the legacy that Mayor Cashell will leave behind upon his retirement.
His service to the Reno community goes far beyond the many positions he has held in the Silver State over the years.  Mayor Cashell also served his country in the United States Air Force.  I extend my deepest gratitude to Mayor Cashell for his courageous contributions to the United States of America and to freedom-loving nations around the world. His service to his country, and his bravery and dedication to his family and community earn him a place among the outstanding men and women who have valiantly defended our nation.  As a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I recognize that Congress has a responsibility not only to honor these brave individuals who serve America, but also to ensure they are cared for when they return home.
I am grateful for his dedication and commitment to the people of Reno and to the State of Nevada.  He personifies the highest standards of leadership and community service, and should be proud of his long and meaningful career.  Today, I ask that all of my colleagues join me in congratulating Mayor Cashell on his retirement, and I offer my deepest appreciation for all that he has done to make Nevada an even better place. I offer my best wishes to Mayor Cashell and his wife, Nancy, for many successful and fulfilling years to come.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=ba25d3ce-a9f2-4d49-b43e-73bc6a915f0e,Heller Stands for Nevada and Against Yucca Mountain,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the Senate voted to confirm Joseph S. Hezir of Virginia to be the Chief Financial Officer of the Department of Energy. Senator Heller was one of only three senators to vote against the nomination in the 89-3 vote.
“Today, I am standing up for Nevada. No state should be forced against its will to house a threat to public safety like Yucca Mountain. While this may seem like a small position, the people of Nevada will suffer the most if Mr. Hezir becomes the CFO of the Department of Energy. Our delegation has fought for years to defund studies and processes leading to the approval of Yucca Mountain. Now we have someone who specifically lobbied the Administration and Congress in favor of Yucca Mountain, as recently as two years ago, to oversee finances and implement Department-wide programs. This position has the inherent power and ability to revive Yucca-related work our delegation has fought against for a long time.”
Here is a lobbying disclosure form showing Mr. Hezir specifically lobbying the Administration and Congress on Yucca Mountain. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=eb0a3f69-c9bc-4f45-859b-3f4d1572827c,Heller Welcomes House Approval of NDAA,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the United States House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) earlier today:
“We are one step closer toward job creation, economic development, and enhanced national security with this House vote. Under the tireless efforts of Congressman Mark Amodei, the House passed this important bill. The public lands priorities for Nevada included in the FY 2015 NDAA legislation will benefit our entire state. I’m looking forward to the Senate vote next week.” 
The Nevada public lands priorities included in the package are:
1)      Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act – allows the City of Yerington to work with Nevada Copper to expand its mining operation and create over 1000+ jobs while also providing the City with new infrastructure, job creation, and recreational opportunities.
2)      Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act - conveys nearly 300 acres of BLM land to Elko County for a public motocross park while providing land to the Elko Band of the Te-Moak Tribe for housing and community development.
3)      Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act – provides the City of Fernley over 9,000 acres of federal land within its boundaries suitable for l commercial and industrial development, agriculture, and the expansion of community and cultural events
4)      Las Vegas Valley Public Land and Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument Act – establishes Nevada’s first national monument while conveys BLM land suitable for economic development in Clark and Nye Counties for county and city growth and commercial development, additions to the Great Basin College in Pahrump, College of Southern Nevada, and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas (UNLV) campuses, establishment the Nellis Dunes OHV park, and an expansion of Nellis Air Force Base. 
5)      Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act – establishes the Pine Forest Range Wilderness Area while directing land exchanges between the BLM and local ranchers to ensure the economic viability of privately owned ranches
6)      Carlin Economic Self-Determination Act – provides the City of Carlin over 1,000 acres of federal land surrounding the City to be used for economic development.  
7)      Naval Air Station Fallon Housing and Safety Development Act – conveys nearly 400 acres of BLM land to the NAS Fallon for housing and continued use by the base. 
8)      Storey County Lands Fix – resolves a long-standing mining townsite issue that have put private property rights in question. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=02f599de-45b1-4308-9555-c49e88358281,Heller Saving Commissary Funding from Chopping Block,2014-12-03,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after an amendment he filed was included in the final FY2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) protecting funding for military commissaries across the globe. The amendment requires the Department of Defense to issue an impact report detailing what a reduction in the commissary benefit will have on eligible beneficiaries:
“Commissaries, like the ones at Fallon Naval Air Station and Nellis Air Force Base, offer significant savings that our nation’s military families rely on during these difficult economic times. I find the Department of Defense’s proposal to slash funding for commissaries to be wrong and unfair. The Pentagon should not balance its budget on the back of our military community. As a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I am pleased to see this amendment included in the FY2015 NDAA. No matter where these brave men and women are serving, they should never have to worry their earned benefits will be cut.” 
Attached is a copy of the amendment in PDF format. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=7070f24d-3b9b-480f-bf90-0f8829184033,Heller Grills Nominee Rosekind on Future of NHTSA,2014-12-03,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – Today, United States Senator Dean Heller spoke at the Commerce Committee hearing addressing the nomination of Mark Rosekind to be administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, along with two other nominations. More specifically, Heller emphasized the importance of Americans knowing they are safe in their vehicles and of employees of NHTSA having proper knowledge of technological features in these cars to ensure safety for consumers.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=a378fe74-481a-4592-83b2-0c6fab2e4344,Heller Announces Deal on Long-Standing Nevada Public Lands Priorities,2014-12-02,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) announced the House and Senate have agreed upon a package of long-standing public lands bills, which will contain eight Nevada public lands priorities, including the Heller sponsored jobs bills the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act (S.159), the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act (S.1176), and the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act (S.1983).
“This is great news for the entire state of Nevada. I’ve worked tirelessly from my first days in the House of Representatives to take the lead and ensure these lands bills were top priorities. I’ve been committed from the very beginning and am glad to see the fruits of this labor. I’m grateful my colleagues from the delegation, specifically Senator Reid and Congressman Amodei, collaborated in making these bills important action items this Congress. It was not an easy lift but the needs of Nevada were addressed, and I’m happy to achieve this goal. As this legislation becomes law, it will not only spur economic development in our state but enhance national security as well. Those are things we should all be proud to accomplish,” stated Heller.
Senator Heller, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, worked behind the scenes for months to attach these Nevada priorities, spurring economic development and enhancing national security, to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).  The package of lands bills will be part of the final FY2015 NDAA, which will be considered by both the Senate and the House before the end of the 113th Congress.  
The eight Nevada public lands priorities included in the package are: 
1)      Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act – allows the City of Yerington to work with Nevada Copper to expand its mining operation and create over 1000+ jobs while also providing the City with new infrastructure, job creation, and recreational opportunities.
2)      Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act - conveys nearly 300 acres of BLM land to Elko County for a public motocross park while providing land to the Elko Band of the Te-Moak Tribe for housing and community development.
3)      Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act – provides the City of Fernley over 9,000 acres of federal land within its boundaries suitable for l commercial and industrial development, agriculture, and the expansion of community and cultural events
4)      Las Vegas Valley Public Land and Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument Act – establishes Nevada’s first national monument while conveys BLM land suitable for economic development in Clark and Nye Counties for county and city growth and commercial development, additions to the Great Basin College in Pahrump, College of Southern Nevada, and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas (UNLV) campuses, establishment the Nellis Dunes OHV park, and an expansion of Nellis Air Force Base.  
5)      Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act – establishes the Pine Forest Range Wilderness Area while directing land exchanges between the BLM and local ranchers to ensure the economic viability of privately owned ranches
6)      Carlin Economic Self-Determination Act – provides the City of Carlin over 1,000 acres of federal land surrounding the City to be used for economic development.   
7)      Naval Air Station Fallon Housing and Safety Development Act – conveys nearly 400 acres of BLM land to the NAS Fallon for housing and continued use by the base. 
8)      Storey County Lands Fix – resolves a long-standing mining townsite issue that have put private property rights in question.  
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=813db302-484f-4c47-99a9-eb757dc45263,Heller Cites Domestic Violence in Professional Sports as Problem,2014-12-02,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – Today, United States Senator Dean Heller spoke at the Commerce Committee hearing, “Addressing Domestic Violence in Professional Sports,” about the necessity to hold professional sports leagues and players accountable for their actions in domestic violence disputes.
REMARKS AS PREPARED:
Thank you Mr. Chairman, and I appreciate the committee’s attention to this important issue.
I know there are some that may question why Congress is involved in this issue. Let me explain why. Every minute in the United States, 20 people will experience domestic violence.
Last night, more than 20,000 phone calls were made to domestic violence hotlines. One in three women will experience physical violence from a partner in their lifetime. And children exposed to domestic violence are more likely commit domestic violence later in life. As a husband, and as a father of two wonderful daughters, this is simply unacceptable and something that must be changed.
These numbers aren’t just statistics – they’re people. They are wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends. The witnesses before us today represent the most popular and commercially successful sports leagues in the world. Their star players are household names and role models for fans and aspiring young athletes.
In the past few years, we’ve witnessed some truly shocking acts from some of these public figures. But just as concerning is how the leagues handled these situations and how the unions protected these players.
It’s very clear to me that getting these players back on the field was more important than addressing incidents of sexual assault, domestic violence, even child abuse. The leagues and the unions simply brushed these problems aside and left it to the courts.
Only when a video surfaced of the brutal punch an NFL player landed on his wife did the collective conscience of America demand these leagues and unions change their approach.
I can only imagine what survivors feel like today.  As I wrote in a letter earlier this year to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, by waiting until the video of a shocking act of domestic violence by one of their players became public, they effectively condoned the action of this player. 
I believe the same holds true for the players association and in fact don’t think you even understand the full scope of the problem.
When the Ray Rice decision was overturned the NFL Players Association said:
“This decision is a victory for a disciplinary process that is fair and transparent, this union will always stand up and fight for the due process rights of our players.”
This is not about due process.  This is not about the collective bargaining agreement you do not like anymore and want to change. This is not about any type of labor issues you may have with the league. 
This is about helping to stop a terrible problem in society.  Wives, mothers, sisters, daughters and friends are being beaten.  When you are worrying more about getting back on the field instead of stopping abuse, your priorities are out of order.
Instead of addressing the problem, inadequate or nonexistent league policies and codes of conduct mean that aggressors have not been dealt with appropriately, and the survivors of domestic violence have been left behind.
There is no place in any society for these horrifying acts of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Our nation’s professional sports leagues have a unique ability to make a difference.
The American people need you to step up and this committee wants to know what you’re going to do to take a stand.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/house-passes-amodei-nevada-native-nations-lands-act,House Passes Amodei Nevada Native Nations Lands Act,2014-12-01,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, by suspension vote, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Mark Amodei's (NV-2) H.R. 2455, the Nevada Native Nations Lands Act, which includes six tribal lands measures, as well as a smaller conveyance to the City of Elko. The bill was amended to match the Senate version, which was reported out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee on August 26, 2014.

“These are all cases where local control and economic self-determination are preferable to Washington-centric management by a federal agency,” said Amodei. “These lands will enable the tribes to chart brighter futures for their communities and to better preserve their cultural heritage.”

Te-Moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians: Would transfer approximately 373 acres of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in Elko County to be held in trust for residential development, recreation and conservation.

Fort McDermitt Paiute Shoshone Tribe: Would transfer approximately 19,095 acres of BLM land in Humboldt County to be held in trust to resolve checkerboard lands issues. This would help to address law enforcement and emergency personnel jurisdictional questions, as well as enable the tribe to plan for housing development. In 1971, U.S. Senators Bible and Cannon from Nevada introduced a similar bill, but the legislation was never re-introduced.

Shoshone Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation: Would transfer approximately 82 acres of U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land in Elko County to be held in trust for housing and infrastructure to address the reservation housing shortage and to recruit doctors, nurses, law enforcement, conservation officers and first responders.

Summit Lake Paiute Tribe: Would transfer approximately 880 acres of BLM land in Humboldt County to be held in trust for protection and management of Summit Lake’s natural resources and fish population and to unify the reservation around Summit Lake.

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony: Would transfer approximately 11,180 acres of BLM land in Washoe County to be held in trust for the creation of a safety buffer around the Hungry Valley community. The housing is surrounded by BLM lands to the north, west and east where multiple activities routinely occur, some permitted by the BLM and others prohibited, that illicit safety and quality of life concerns from residents. Such activities include off-roading, target shooting, illegal dumping and unauthorized motorcycle racing. The lands also hold cultural significance and several of the landscape features are used for traditional religious practices and a source of medicinal plants.

Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe: Would transfer approximately 11,719 acres of BLM land in Washoe County to be held in trust to expand the reservation boundary to fully incorporate the watershed of Pyramid Lake. Other sections near the lake would be used for potential economic development and management efficiency.

Elko County: Would transfer approximately 275 acres of BLM land to Elko County to establish a motocross, bicycle, off-roading or stock car racing area. The county would pay all costs associated with surveys and administrative costs for the preparation and completion of the transfer.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=52bb97b8-985a-4ecc-82b1-3ac513ebd701,Heller Statement on Nevada Native Nations Lands Act Passage in House,2014-12-01,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2455, the Nevada Native Nations Lands Act, earlier tonight. The legislation, guided through the House of Representatives by Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-02), spurs economic development for six northern Nevada tribes:
“The transfer of this land puts power back into the hands of local tribes and their communities. They are the ones best suited to make decisions on economic development and job creation. Much of the land will be used for residential housing, commercial growth, outdoor recreation, and cultural activities. These are all very important purposes benefitting the residents of Nevada. I would like to thank Congressman Amodei for his leadership with this legislation in the House. I will continue to work with my colleagues in the Senate to send this proposal to the President for signature before the end of the 113th Congress.” 
After it was amended on the House floor today, Congressman Amodei’s H.R.2455 mirrors the Senate companion worked on by Senators Heller and Reid.  S.2480 passed the Senate Indian Affairs Committee by a voice vote on June 26, 2014, and awaits consideration by the full Senate.  
The six tribes affected by this legislation are the Te-Moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians, the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, the Shoshone Paiute Tribes of Duck Valley, the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, the Summit Lake Paiute, and the Ft. McDermitt Paiute and Shoshone Tribe. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141124040706/http://heck.house.gov:80/press-release/heck-statement-president-obamas-executive-action-immigration,Heck Statement on President Obama's Executive Action on Immigration,2014-11-21,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"LAS VEGAS - Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today released the following statement in response to President Obama’s executive action on immigration.
""It's disappointing that the President has chosen Las Vegas as his venue to ignore both the American people and the legislative authority of Congress. It is increasingly disappointing when you consider that the President himself has repeatedly stated he does not have the authority to do what he is announcing today.
""I am deeply concerned about the precedent this executive action sets for future Presidents. This executive order will make enforcing current immigration law more difficult and act as an added incentive for individuals to come here illegally. Our immigration system is broken but as I have said all along, immigration reform should be debated and voted on by the elected representatives of the American people. I look forward to that debate with my colleagues in the House and stand ready and willing to work with our local leaders on immigration reform if they can put politics aside and focus on policy.""  
###
Congressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141206070838/http://heck.house.gov/press-release/heck-continues-push-recognition-compensation-filipino-american-veterans-world-war-ii,"Heck Continues Push for Recognition, Compensation for Filipino-American Veterans of World War II",2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Participates in Veterans Affairs subcommittee hearing on compensation fund eligibility verification
WASHINGTON - Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today continued his push for recognition and compensation for the denied Filipino-American veterans of World War II by participating in hearing held by the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.  
The hearing, which was held at Rep. Heck's urging, examined the process for verifying eligibility claims under the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation (FVEC) Fund.
""The denied Filipino-American veterans have been denied long enough,"" Rep. Joe Heck. ""These brave men deserve the compensation they earned through their service. But more importantly, they deserve to be officially recognized for that service. For them, living out their years knowing that U.S. government recognizes their military service and appreciates their sacrifices would be the greatest honor of their lives. It's time for Congress to take action and get this done.""   
Rep. Heck questioned witnesses about whether it would be reasonable for the AGO-23 form, if submitted directly by a Filipino veteran, to be used as a proof of service to pay a claim. Acceptance of this form would be a breakthrough because many of the Denied Filipino-American Veterans have such a form. A video of the exchange can be seen below.
Background:
On February 18, 1946, President Harry S. Truman signed the Rescission Act of 1946 into law. This law denied Filipino World War II veterans, who served before July 1, 1946, the benefits promised to them five years prior by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.  These veterans fought under the direction of U.S. commanders for several years as the conflict against Imperial Japan ensued in the Pacific theater, only to be eventually denied compensation. In 2009, Congress finally acknowledged the dedicated service of these veterans when it established the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund. However, since that time, thousands of Filipino-American veterans have had their claims denied on the grounds that they did not possess proper documentation.
###
Congressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=c8ee7935-3b8e-4593-bc43-fce8034affac,CONGRATULATING BILL DEIST,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRATULATING BILL DEIST
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
November 20, 2014 
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Bill Deist, of Winnemucca, Nevada, on his retirement.  After serving the community of Humboldt County for over 15 years, Bill will be retiring in December 2014.  It gives me great pleasure to congratulate him on his retirement after many years of hard work and dedication to Humboldt County and the Silver State.
Bill stands as a shining example of someone who has devoted their life to the betterment of their community. He started serving the Silver State in 1997 when he moved to Carlin, Nevada.  His experience of over 19 years as the City Manager in John Day, Oregon, made him an extremely qualified candidate to become the Carlin City Manager – a position that he held for two years.  After his years as the City Manager, Bill became the Humboldt County Administrator, a position that he has held with integrity for the past 15 years.
Upon becoming the Humboldt County Administrator, Bill became a person known for getting things done. He always worked well with all city, county, and state governments throughout his career.  His consistent priority was to create initiatives geared towards the betterment and improvement of the lives of the Humboldt County citizens. Among his many accomplishments, Bill has been credited with the creation of a strong county budget and upon his retirement, he will be leaving the county debt free and fiscally strong.
While representing Humboldt County for four years in the U.S. House of Representatives, and now as its  United States Senator, I have had the distinct pleasure of working closely with Bill important northern Nevada priorities. Bill was an integral part of the Pine Forest review and assessment working group that worked for years to develop recommendations that were ultimately included in the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act, legislation I have fought to enact as a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. This bill, which would greatly benefit Humboldt County once enacted, has near unanimous support among residents because of the in-depth work done prior to introduction.  In fact, it is frequently looked to in Congress as a national model for how public lands bills should be developed at the grassroots level.  Public input and local support is critical to all my public lands work in the Energy and Natural Resources Committee on behalf of the state, and Bill’s input has been vital in nearly every effort I have been involved in benefiting the county.
Bill exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and community service and should be proud of his long and meaningful career.  I am grateful for his dedication and commitment to the people of Humboldt County and to the State of Nevada.  Today, I ask that all of my colleagues join me in congratulating Bill on his retirement, and I offer my deepest appreciation for all that he has done to make the Silver State an even better place.  I offer my best wishes for many successful and fulfilling years to come.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=3d84747f-73f9-47e1-bc1c-bf544fe2509c,Heller Introduces Legislation Ensuring Vets Receive Proper Burial,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after introducing the Veterans Dignified Burial Act, earlier today. This legislation calls for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to follow up with morgues on pending burials 30 day after a body has been identified as a veteran. Congressman Ed Royce (R-CA) introduced similar legislation in the United States House of Representatives earlier this year:
“This legislation will keep the VA accountable for ensuring every veteran receives a proper burial in a timely manner.  After all they have sacrificed in service to our nation, the least we can do is make certain they are afforded a dignified burial honoring their commitment to America. I’d like to thank Congressman Royce for taking the lead in the House and hope to see this legislation pass both chambers very soon,” stated Heller.
Congressman Royce continued, “Stories of unburied veterans’ bodies are deeply unsettling and these travesties are the result of burial procedure loopholes at the VA. This bill ensures the VA follows up on pending burials 30 days after the deceased has been confirmed as a veteran, so that we know he or she is treated with both dignity and respect,"" said Rep. Royce. ""While the quality of the healthcare that veterans receive has been in the news lately, our veterans deserve the same attention when it comes to their burials.”
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=80e9d69a-1465-40a0-a13d-ac0176adb14b,Heller Reaction to POTUS Statement on Immigration,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement in reaction to President Barack Obama’s recent remarks on immigration:
“The Senate passed comprehensive, bipartisan legislation providing a long-term solution back in 2013, and I supported it and continue to do so. What I don’t agree with is the use of the executive order nor do I agree with the Administration bypassing Congress. In utilizing an executive order, the President is being short-sighted and is merely offering a band aid for a much larger issue. This is not leadership. We need true comprehensive reform to fix our nation’s broken immigration system. The Senate already came up with a viable proposal. Now is the time for the President to work with Speaker Boehner to offer a realistic plan.” 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=c5e3684c-7970-43dc-a54e-d02d68e64d01,Heller Leaves Auto Execs Scrambling with Line of Questioning,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – Today, United States Senator Dean Heller questioned auto executives during a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing examining airbag defects and the vehicle recall process.
Senator Heller first asked a Takata Corporation executive if his company took responsibility for its actions.
Senator Heller then asked a Honda executive if members of his own family were safe driving Honda vehicles.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=d9d74133-b550-4932-a4aa-793c88595e9e,Heller Statement on NHTSA Nomination,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV), ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance issued the following statement on the nomination of Dr. Mark R. Rosekind to serve as the administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
“While it took the Administration almost a year to select a nominee, I’m relieved to see NHTSA will no longer be without a director. Protecting consumers by overseeing motor vehicle safety laws continues to be a responsibility that must not be ignored. I’m looking forward to meeting with Dr. Rosekind to discuss how he plans to make consumer safety a top priority at NHTSA.”
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=95ca4b17-d671-42fe-a118-fe5a652a3639,Heller Demands Improvement of Backlog to Address Poor Mental Health of Veterans,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – Today, United States Senator Dean Heller spoke at the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, “Mental Health and Suicide Among Veterans,” about the importance of addressing the VA’s disability claims backlog in order to speed up services for mental health treatment and lower suicide rates for veterans.
REMARKS AS PREPARED:
First, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge two witnesses here today, Mrs. Selke and Mrs. Pallotta.  I cannot begin to imagine your loss and I truly admire your bravery coming here today to talk about your sons. They served our country with valor and we must honor that by making sure every veteran from here on out is cared for when they return home.
Chairman Sanders and Ranking Member Burr—I also want to thank you for bringing this issue before the Committee, especially because of the impact it has on veterans in my state.
To put it in perspective—between 2008 and 2012, 593 veterans from Nevada were lost to suicide.
Six months ago, I would have looked at that number and asked why is it so high? What is missing within the VA or VA benefits that so many of Nevada’s veterans resort to this?
I think we now know that a big part of the problem is veterans’ access to care at VA facilities. This is such a critical thing to get right at the VA because of the ripple effect it has on a veteran’s well-being.
Whether it is medical care, mental health treatment, or support during transition to civilian life, veterans being forced to wait for care from the VA can be detrimental.
That is why I have asked the Las Vegas VA Director to send me reports about wait times for primary care, specialty care, and mental health treatment for Southern Nevada’s Veterans. 
Every two weeks, for both Las Vegas and Reno, I track these numbers for improvements. 
In the most recent data, patients already receiving mental health care from VA facilities in Nevada wait a week or less for an appointment. 
Unfortunately, the average wait time for new patients seeking mental health treatment is 23 days in Reno and 46 days in Las Vegas. 
Even worse, a clinic in Northwest Las Vegas has an average wait time of 64 days for new patients. 
Veterans in need of mental health treatment absolutely cannot be waiting more than 2 months to be seen. 
I have been pushing every one of these facilities to improve these wait times in the coming months and want to hear from the VA today about what resources it will be devoting to mental health treatment.
We must also remember that scheduling an appointment is not the only barrier to receiving care. Veterans must also qualify for this care.
One of the best ways to ensure veterans qualify for mental health services is by reducing the VA’s disability claims backlog.
Veterans with post-traumatic stress who have a PTS-related claim approved will be able to access VA’s mental health services and treatment.
This claims backlog is an issue I have brought up during every Committee hearing because I believe it should be a top priority of the VA and of this Committee.
That is why I sent a letter to the Chairman requesting that he re-schedule a legislative hearing to consider my bipartisan bill to address the VA claims process.
Nevada Veterans have one of the longest waits in the nation at 248 days on average to complete a claim, and 240,000 veterans nationwide are still waiting longer than the VA’s 125-day deadline.
Until this backlog is eliminated, veterans will continue to face delays to accessing the mental health treatment they need.
With 22 veteran suicides a day and nearly 600 veteran suicides in Nevada over the past five years, it is clear that something must be done to improve the current state of mental health services at the VA.
The VA facilities in my state know that I will use my oversight role on this Committee to continue holding them accountable for performance, timeliness and the quality of care they provide to Nevada’s veterans.
I look forward to hearing from the witnesses today about what VA is doing to address this crisis and how Congress can help in this effort.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=76129154-3bb9-44b4-8c14-48615c20a607,CONGRATULATING MIKE CARRIGAN,2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRATULATING MIKE CARRIGAN
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
November 18, 2014 
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Councilman Mike Carrigan, of Sparks, on his retirement.  After serving as a member of the Sparks City Council for 15 years, Councilman Carrigan retired on November 10th, 2014.  It gives me great pleasure to congratulate him on his retirement after many years of hard work and dedication to the City of Sparks and the Silver State.
Councilman Carrigan stands as a shining example of someone who has devoted their life to serving their county and community. Graduating from the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, he went on to serve in the United States Navy for 20 years as a naval aviator around the world.  I extend my deepest gratitude to Councilman Carrigan for his courageous contributions to the United States of America and to freedom-loving nations around the world. His service to his country and his bravery and dedication earn him a place among the outstanding men and women who have valiantly defended our nation.  I am both humbled and honored by Councilman Carrigan’s service to the community and am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan. 
After his many years of service, Councilman Carrigan moved to Nevada in the early 1990s with his wife, Cora, and their two daughters, Ashley and Molly.  He attended the University of Nevada, Reno and earned his Master’s Degree in Journalism and soon began work as a newspaperman in Fallon.  With his experience and expertise, Councilman Carrigan began teaching part-time in the Reynolds School of Journalism at his alma mater, where he taught  journalism courses for several years. His desire to make positive changes in his community soon led to his first run and subsequent win in office on Sparks’ City Council.
Upon being elected to the Sparks City Council in 1999, he has worked on numerous projects for the City of Sparks and has always strived to ensure that Sparks stayed family-oriented.  Councilman Carrigan has remained committed to being a voice for the people of Sparks and has been a constant advocate for initiatives that meet the needs of Sparks’ families. Among his many accomplishments, one of his proudest was the construction of Golden Eagle Regional Park in his ward, which was built without the use of taxpayer funds.
I am grateful for his dedication and commitment to the people of Sparks and to the State of Nevada.  He exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and community service and should be proud of his long and meaningful career.  Today, I ask that all of my colleagues join me in congratulating Councilman Carrigan on his retirement, and I offer my deepest appreciation for all that he has done to make Nevada an even better place.  I offer my best wishes for many successful and fulfilling years to come.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=65f58178-c98c-46a1-8efe-af441d9f99b4,CONGRATULATING LEROY GOODMAN,2014-11-17,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRATULATING LEROY GOODMAN
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
November 12, 2014
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Mayor LeRoy Goodman, of Fernley, on his retirement.  After serving as the mayor of Fernley for several years, Mayor Goodman will be retiring on November 19th, 2014.  It gives me great pleasure to congratulate him on his retirement after 42 years of hard work and dedication to the Silver State.
Upon graduating from the University of Nevada, Reno with a bachelor’s degree in business, Mayor Goodman went on to earn his master’s degree in education and became a basketball coach and teacher at Fernley High School in 1965.  Aside from dedicating his time educating the youth in Fernley, he has devoted much of his time and efforts to the betterment of his community through his roles as a board member of the Northern Nevada Development Authority, a member of the Fernley Town Board, sitting on the Board of Directors for a multitude of Nevada organizations, and as Lyon County Commissioner.  His many years of experience made him an ideal candidate for Fernley Mayor after the resignation of former Mayor Todd Cutler.  Upon being sworn in as mayor on August 5, 2009, he immediately began working on improving the functioning of the council and city operations.  His main focus remained his constituency and ensuring their needs and priorities were met.
I have been fortunate during my time in Congress to be able to work closely with Mayor Goodman on federal legislation – the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act (S.1983) – which will provide the City of Fernley the option to purchase federal lands within the City’s boundaries that are currently landlocked by checkerboard parcels of federal land.  Working alongside private business partners and state and federal regional agencies, we are seeking to develop a long-term sustainable economic development plan that will enable all parties to benefit from the use of private land within the city.  This bill will greatly help the city and will clear the way for thousands of high-paying, private sector jobs. The progress we have made in Congress on this initiative would not be possible without the Mayor’s strong leadership. 
His service to the Fernley community extends far beyond the many positions he has held in the Silver State over the years.  Mayor Goodman also served his country as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force.  I extend my deepest gratitude to Mayor Goodman for his courageous contributions to the United States of America and to freedom-loving nations around the world. His service to his country and his bravery and dedication earn him a place among the outstanding men and women who have valiantly defended our nation.  As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I recognize that Congress has a responsibility not only to honor these brave individuals who serve America, but also to ensure they are cared for when they return home.  I remain committed to upholding this promise for our veterans and service members in Nevada and throughout the nation.
I am grateful for his dedication and commitment to the people of Fernley and to the State of Nevada.  He exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and community service and should be proud of his long and meaningful career.  Today, I ask that all of my colleagues join me in congratulating Mayor Goodman on his retirement, and I offer my deepest appreciation for all that he has done to make Nevada an even better place.  I offer my best wishes for many successful and fulfilling years to come.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141114200855/http://heck.house.gov/press-release/heck-elected-steering-committee-third-straight-term,Heck Elected to Steering Committee for Third Straight Term,2014-11-14,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Chosen by peers to represent Western region
WASHINGTON - Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today released the following statement after being elected as the Region 1 representative to the Republican Steering Committee by members of the House Republican Conference. Region 1 is one of 12 regional representatives, and the position represents members from Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.
""I am honored to again be elected by my peers to serve on the Steering Committee. This post will allow me to ensure that committee chairs as well as House Republican leaders understand key issues that affect Western states. Congressional Republicans have a great opportunity to govern responsibly, demonstrate effective leadership, and provide meaningful solutions to the challenges facing the nation during the 114th Congress and I look forward to contributing to that work as a member of the Steering Committee.""
In the 112th Congress (2011-12) Rep. Heck served as one of three representatives to the Steering Committee from the class of 2010. In the 113th Congress (2013-14) he was the only representative to the Steering Committee from the class of 2010. The Steering Committee has jurisdiction over assigning standing committee chairmanships as well as committee assignments for all members.  The regional representatives work in conjunction with House Leadership, several key committee chairs, and two class representatives.
###
Congressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=61e3ae22-b0bc-4585-8033-a41cacb0e335,RECOGNIZING HORSES4HEROES,2014-11-13,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"RECOGNIZING HORSES4HEROES
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
November 13, 2014
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, today I wish to recognize a national non-profit organization within Las Vegas known as Horses4Heroes for being awarded the American Horse Council Time to Ride 100-Day Horse Challenge by introducing the most newcomers to horses in just 100 days.  This unique program works to improve the lives of more than six million Americans who serve in the military, National Guard, as First Responders and their families, by making horseback riding more affordable and accessible. As a long-time horse owner and horse enthusiast myself, I recognize the importance horses play as both companion animals and to our nation’s economy.
The brave men and women who have served the United States and fought to protect our freedom have often come home suffering from the effects of post-traumatic stress (PTS). Veterans faced dangerous situations in order to protect Americans from harm, and we owe them a debt of gratitude.  Horses4Heroes is a shining example of the kind of initiatives that will help to re-integrate our veterans into civilian life, combat the effects of PTS, and help reduce the rates of suicide, while also providing comfort to grieving families.
There is no way to adequately thank the men and women that lay down their lives for our freedoms, but the founders and volunteers at Horses4Heroes are working to assist our nation’s veterans by giving them the opportunity to use horses to help reconnect and get reacquainted with their families. The organization was founded by Sydney Knott in 2006 operating out of her backyard and has now grown to incorporate affordable recreational, instructional, and morale-boosting health & wellness programs at more than 200 and therapeutic equestrian centers across the country. This organization’s continued dedication to serving veterans in the Silver State and the country is commendable.
As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I know the struggles that our veterans face after returning home from the battlefield. Congress has a responsibility not only to honor these brave individuals, but to ensure they receive the quality care they have earned and deserve.  I remain committed to upholding this promise for our veterans and service members in Nevada and throughout the nation.  I am very pleased that veterans’ service organizations like Horses4Heroes are committed to ensuring that the needs of our veterans are being met.
Today, I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in recognizing Horses4Heroes, an organization whose mission is both noble and charitable. I am both humbled and honored to recognize Horses4Heroes and I wish them the best of luck in all of their future endeavors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=3cc7b245-cd24-44b1-bede-08606de715b3,Heller Statement on Recent Net Neutrality Statement by POTUS,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV), ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation’s subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance, issued the following statement today after the president called for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to use Title II of the Communications Act of 1934 to craft additional net neutrality regulations:
“As I have said before, the world has changed drastically since 1996, the last time the Telecommunications Act was updated. By calling for Title II classification for internet service providers, the President is doubling down on the ‘regulate first’ mentality that inhibits innovation and growth in the tech industry. The President’s approach takes dynamic technology and turns it into another utility like electricity and water. And just like power and water, today’s internet would become stagnant instead of remaining vibrant.
“This approach fails to recognize the world has changed for the better, not because of regulation but in spite of it. We need a new telecommunications law empowering consumers by promoting robust competition in the broad internet sphere. We need to encourage new participants, not limit them. The free market rewards innovation and drives more investment to create jobs and economic growth. Most importantly, we need to ensure consumers are adequately protected from demonstrated market failures and not hypothetical ones.”    
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-passing-elko-county-commissioner-grant-gerber,Amodei statement on the passing of Elko County Commissioner Grant Gerber,2014-10-27,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

ELKO, NEV. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today released the following statement on the passing of Elko County Commissioner Grant Gerber:

“My sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to Grant’s wife Lenore, his family and friends. A fourth generation Nevadan, Elko County native, Army Captain, Vietnam veteran, Bronze Star recipient, husband, father of six, public servant, Grant lived his life as a passionate Westerner and was a strong voice for the community on multiple use and resource management. May you rest in peace.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:40Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141028100900/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=448,Amodei statement on the passing of Elko County Commissioner Grant Gerber,2014-10-27,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155  ELKO, NEV. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today released the following statement on the passing of Elko County Commissioner Grant Gerber:  “My sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to Grant’s wife Lenore, his family and friends. A fourth generation Nevadan, Elko County native, Army Captain, Vietnam veteran, Bronze Star recipient, husband, father of six, public servant, Grant lived his life as a passionate Westerner and was a strong voice for the community on multiple use and resource management. May you rest in peace.”   # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-passing-nevada-assemblyman-pete-livemore,Amodei statement on the passing of Nevada Assemblyman Pete Livemore,2014-10-20,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"I was saddened today to learn of the sudden passing of my friend Pete Livemore. My sincere condolences go out to Laurie and his family.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

CARSON CITY, NEV. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) released the following statement today on the passing of Pete Livemore:

""I was saddened today to learn of the sudden passing of my friend Pete Livemore. My sincere condolences go out to Laurie and his family.

""Born in the Pelican State, Pete joined the Marines and made his way West, falling in love with and marrying a Carson City girl. He played a big role in the lives of generations of young people in town, either through his A&W franchise, which was the place to be, or as the president of the Carson Youth Sports Association.

""As a legislator, Pete's first thoughts were for the people in his district. He was most influenced by his constituents and did not play party politics. He always felt he was elected to represent all the people in his district. Pete loved Carson City and was proud to represent the Capital City. Rest in peace, Marine.""

# # #

2014-10-21 09:28:00 2014-10-21 09:28:00 2014-10-20 09:26:00 False False",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:40Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141024132426/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=447,Amodei statement on the passing of Nevada Assemblyman Pete Livemore,2014-10-20,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155     CARSON CITY, NEV. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) released the following statement today on the passing of Pete Livemore:  ""I was saddened today to learn of the sudden passing of my friend Pete Livemore. My sincere condolences go out to Laurie and his family.  ""Born in the Pelican State, Pete joined the Marines and made his way West, falling in love with and marrying a Carson City girl. He played a big role in the lives of generations of young people in town, either through his A&W franchise, which was the place to be, or as the president of the Carson Youth Sports Association.  ""As a legislator, Pete's first thoughts were for the people in his district. He was most influenced by his constituents and did not play party politics. He always felt he was elected to represent all the people in his district. Pete loved Carson City and was proud to represent the Capital City. Rest in peace, Marine.""  # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=ef365f4f-d63b-42d2-8531-ef61b2105191,Heller Promises to Fight Efforts of Outsiders to Dump Nuclear Waste in Nevada,2014-10-16,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the Nuclear Regulatory Commission released its latest report pertaining to Yucca Mountain, the Yucca Mountain Safety Evaluation Report, Volume 3: Repository Safety After Permanent Closure:
“Wasting more taxpayer dollars on additional studies to conclude ‎what Nevadans already know: storing our country's nuclear waste at the Yucca Mountain site is wrong and fiscally irresponsible. 
“This Administration has rejected the Yucca Mountain project while Congress has defunded it. The only path forward for long-term waste storage is a multi-site consent based approach. I will continue to fight efforts of outsiders to squander America’s tax dollars to dump nuclear waste in our state against our will.”    
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141017011818/http://heck.house.gov/press-release/heck-receives-american-college-osteopathic-emergency-physicians-lifetime-achievement,Heck Receives American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physicians  Lifetime Achievement Award,2014-10-14,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Award recognizes contributions to emergency medicine through actions, dedication, deeds
HENDERSON - Last night Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) received the American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physician's (ACOEP) Bruce D. Horton Lifetime Achievement Award. The award, presented during the kick-off of the ACOEP's 2014 Scientific Assembly, recognizes an osteopathic emergency physician who ""made contributions to the College and/or emergency medicine through his or her actions, dedication and deeds over his or her career.""
Congressman Heck received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree (D.O.) from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1988, and completed a residency in Emergency Medicine at the Albert Einstein Medical Center in 1992. Following his residency, Heck worked in the emergency medicine departments of Sunrise Hospital and University Medical Center, both in Las Vegas.
""I'm humbled and honored to receive the Bruce D. Horton Lifetime Achievement Award,"" Rep. Heck said. ""This award is a great testament to the many exceptional physicians I have learned from and worked with over the course of my career in emergency medicine. As emergency medicine physicians we pride ourselves on providing care to all who come into our department regardless of chief complaint or ability to pay and I am proud to have been recognized for my service to the profession of emergency medicine and the College.""
In addition to his work in the emergency department, Rep. Heck has worked in emergency medicine as an ambulance attendant and EMT, search and rescue team member, and tactical physician with local and federal law enforcement. He has had academic work published on the topic of emergency preparedness and response.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-fish-wildlifes-sage-hen-conclusions-ounbelievable-incredible-and-without,"Amodei: Fish & Wildlife's sage hen conclusions Ôunbelievable, incredible and without anything resembling documentary or scientific support'",2014-10-10,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. – After obtaining a letter sent by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) Pacific Southwest Regional Director Ren Lohoefener to the Nevada Sagebrush Ecosystem Council, which was filled with factual errors and conclusions he found to be “unbelievable, incredible and without anything resembling documentary or scientific support,” Congressman Mark Amodei sent the following letter to Lohoefener to express his serious concerns:

October 9, 2014

Mr. Ren Lohoefener

Regional Director, Pacific Southwest

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

2800 Cottage Way, Suite W-2606

Sacramento, CA 95825

Dear Ren,

Reference is made to your recent correspondence, dated October 1, 2014, to the Chairman of Nevada's Sagebrush Ecosystem Council, Dr. J.J. Goicoechea. Initially, I must admit to a high level of frustration with your continuing apparent aversion to copying me on correspondence regarding the Sage Hen in Nevada.

After several years of absolute robust communication and transparency on my part, I no longer have an appetite for hoping you will extend to me the same courtesy. Please consider this correspondence as a formal request to be copied on all your correspondence to Nevada local, state and federal officials related directly or indirectly to 2014 Nevada Greater Sage-Grouse (Hen) Conservation Plan.

Additionally, I note that the subject correspondence, although signed by you, refers to you in a third party context at the top of page two. Are you in fact the author of the subject correspondence? If not, please identify who is, or whom at the Service assisted in your authorship.

With respect to the subject of “your” letter, it would appear the Service has already applied several disturbing conclusions and practices in administering its duty with respect to the Sage Hen in Nevada.

Your approach continues to ignore the federal habitat ownership reality in Nevada. While I appreciate the Service's vast historical experience with the Endangered Species Act on state and private lands, Nevada is unique in that your sister Interior agencies own and administer 86 percent of the state. Your steadfast refusal to recognize this fact undermines the credibility needed to fashion a responsible habitat solution. You have indicated to me previously that the Service would hold the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service to the same questions posed to the State of Nevada. Please provide copies of any correspondence from yourself to BLM and FS demonstrating you followed through with that action. To date, it appears your focus has ignored the habitat responsibility of federal land management agencies.

I see that there is a recent focus on what is referred to as “key non-federal habitats.” I am aware of the Natural Resources Conservation Service report that USFWS Nevada State Supervisor Ted Koch mischaracterized to conclude that such a resource exists. I'd like to know if the Service believes that key “federal” habitat exists in Nevada. Given the small percentage of private land ownership, the claim that the most important habitat acreage lies in 14 percent of Nevada while there is none in the federal 86 percent of the state is frankly incredible.

Additionally, in conversation in my Reno and D.C. offices with Mr. Koch and Nevada Department of Wildlife Director Tony Wasley, it was routinely acknowledged that the concept of wet meadow key habitat was, like all habitats, in need of quantification and mapping so as to identify, among other salient facts, who owns such areas.

The Service’s conclusion, as adopted in your letter, represents an individual interpretation of one report. Is this how the Service makes an administrative record? Eighty-six percent federal ownership of Nevada, but the wet meadows are all in the private, state and municipal 14 percent? Simply put, this is unbelievable, incredible and without anything resembling documentary or scientific support. Please forward a copy of the Service’s map establishing location and ownership of key non-federal wet meadows in Nevada.

Might I suggest, when supplying the requested data on federal land ownership in Nevada along with land ownership held privately in the name of the State or in the name of municipalities, that you not use the same data that was provided in the Service’s Capitol Hill briefing on October 6 to Congressional staff. Apparently, the Service is over-representing state and privately-owned land in Nevada by six million acres. The amount of acreage composing the 14 percent of the state that is not federally owned is approximately 13 million acres, not 19 million. I am not encouraged by the factual foundation, attention to detail or scientific basis of the Capitol Hill briefing when we are nearly a decade down the road with the Service keeping an eye on Sage Hen habitat. If credibility plays any role in statements, letters and briefings and in your ultimate decision; unilateral un-substantiated conclusions, conflicting analysis, advice and outright ignorance of basic facts have got to end.

I am absolutely astounded at the conclusion in your correspondence regarding habitat. Specific reference is made on page two of the October 1 letter, paragraph three:

“Given the uncertainty of being able to create sagebrush habitat and, if habitat can be created, the added uncertainty of use by sage grouse, the loss of good occupied sagebrush habitat has to be considered a serious consequence with low likelihood of mitigation success. Creating sage grouse habitat is not mitigation for loss of occupied sage grouse habitat.”

Ren, I had no idea, based on conversations from USFWS Director Dan Ashe on down through Sacramento, Denver and in Nevada, that the Service had come to the conclusion that sagebrush habitat could not be “created”! I am further surprised to learn that the Service concluded the Sage Hen will not use restored habitat. Please provide the supporting data that you and your Service consultants are relying on to support these conclusions. I am intrigued to hear why $32 million from NRCS and other agencies for habitat work for the Bi-State subspecies is a good thing; and the Service has recently put forth cost estimates for habitat work for the Greater Sage Hen across the West for $1 billion and yet, as of October 1, you indicate to Nevada that habitat creation is not looked upon favorably by the Service. Wow!

Please share with me your thoughts on what we have all been doing in the West for the past decade with respect to habitat loss and fragmentation if the Service’s position is that habitat cannot be restored or, if restored, utilized by the Greater Sage Hen. If this is in fact the Service’s position, the phrases “self-fulfilling prophecy” and “subterfuge to end multiple-use in the West” certainly take on a focused credibility.

Finally, I'm not sure what it takes for the Service to acknowledge that the overwhelming threat to Nevada Sage Hen habitat is and, for the past three decades, has been catastrophic wildland fire. Cheatgrass does not precede fire in Nevada’s sagebrush steppe ecosystem. In Nevada, BLM alone has burned more than 6.8 million acres in the past 20 years. Compare this to the fact that at the same time BLM and FS district managers and district rangers have permitted about 150,000 acres for mining operations. Additionally, the number of cattle grazing on federal allotments is down 20 percent. The sheep grazing on federal allotments is down 80 percent. If it is really about habitat, Ren, the inescapable conclusion is that we are losing habitat to fire, not decisions made by federal land managers in Nevada. There can be no clearer illustration of this fact than the reality that mining permits, for example, represent approximately two percent of total acreage lost to fire in Nevada in the last 20 years.

Yet the Service remains focused on every threat, but wildland fire. Specifically, what is the Service’s position on wildfire management in Sage Hen habitat in Nevada? Also, why is the Service not advising the BLM to be more proactive on addressing wild horse and burro populations as is the case in the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge in Northwestern Nevada? The Service clearly states on its website (www.fws.gov/sheldonhartmtn/sheldon/horseburro.html):

“The horse and burro populations on Sheldon are causing negative impacts to native wildlife and their habitats. Conflicts over scarce water in this desert environment include trampling of vegetation along stream banks and at springheads, physical exclusion of other species by dominant stud horses and burros, and contamination from feces and urine. Horses and burros also cause habitat degradation by trampling and destroying vegetation in the upland areas. Together, these areas provide important habitat for native species such as sage-grouse… especially during the brooding seasons.”

What is the Service's position with respect to wild horses and Sage Hen habitat in the rest of Nevada? Is the Service attempting to restore Sage Hen habitat on the Sheldon? Does the Service have Sage Hen lek and population numbers and historical trends on the Sheldon pursuant to the Service’s habitat management operations? If so, please forward that data. I would like to see how the Sheldon management compares with your present Nevada plan suggestions.

As you can tell, I am of the opinion that the subject correspondence represents a major departure from your offer to “put the goal posts in granite” as stated the last time you and USFWS Mountain-Prairie Regional Director Noreen Walsh were in my D.C. office. I am not fond of letters, much less long ones. I regret that the most recent positions put forth under your leadership cannot be dealt with informally. Frankly, I am wondering if I was wasting everyone’s time the past three years in discussing habitat loss and fragmentation in the context of fire.

Kindly advise as to your response regarding the questions contained above. Reference made to your “spirit of assistance” in the attached letter. Should your response not be forthcoming within 30 days, I will advise my colleagues of your desire to communicate in the formal hearing context and begin work on scheduling appropriate field and Capitol Hill hearings.

Cordially,

Mark E. Amodei

Member of Congress

CC:

Representative Doc Hastings

Representative Rob Bishop

Representative Ken Calvert

Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval

Nevada Sagebrush Ecosystem Council

Interior Secretary Sally Jewell

USFWS Director Dan Ashe

BLM Director Neil Kornze

BLM Nevada State Director Amy Lueders

USFWS Nevada State Supervisor Ted Koch

USFS Forest Supervisor, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Bill Dunkelberger

USFWS Mountain-Prairie Regional Director Noreen Walsh

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:40Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141011093201/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=446,"Amodei: Fish & Wildlife's sage hen conclusions 'unbelievable, incredible and without anything resembling documentary or scientific support'",2014-10-10,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155  WASHINGTON, D.C. – After obtaining a letter sent by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) Pacific Southwest Regional Director Ren Lohoefener to the Nevada Sagebrush Ecosystem Council, which was filled with factual errors and conclusions he found to be “unbelievable, incredible and without anything resembling documentary or scientific support,” Congressman Mark Amodei sent the following letter to Lohoefener to express his serious concerns:  October 9, 2014  Mr. Ren Lohoefener  Regional Director, Pacific Southwest  U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service  2800 Cottage Way, Suite W-2606  Sacramento, CA 95825     Dear Ren,  Reference is made to your recent correspondence, dated October 1, 2014, to the Chairman of Nevada's Sagebrush Ecosystem Council, Dr. J.J. Goicoechea. Initially, I must admit to a high level of frustration with your continuing apparent aversion to copying me on correspondence regarding the Sage Hen in Nevada.   After several years of absolute robust communication and transparency on my part, I no longer have an appetite for hoping you will extend to me the same courtesy. Please consider this correspondence as a formal request to be copied on all your correspondence to Nevada local, state and federal officials related directly or indirectly to 2014 Nevada Greater Sage-Grouse (Hen) Conservation Plan.  Additionally, I note that the subject correspondence, although signed by you, refers to you in a third party context at the top of page two. Are you in fact the author of the subject correspondence? If not, please identify who is, or whom at the Service assisted in your authorship.  With respect to the subject of “your” letter, it would appear the Service has already applied several disturbing conclusions and practices in administering its duty with respect to the Sage Hen in Nevada.  Your approach continues to ignore the federal habitat ownership reality in Nevada. While I appreciate the Service's vast historical experience with the Endangered Species Act on state and private lands, Nevada is unique in that your sister Interior agencies own and administer 86 percent of the state. Your steadfast refusal to recognize this fact undermines the credibility needed to fashion a responsible habitat solution. You have indicated to me previously that the Service would hold the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service to the same questions posed to the State of Nevada. Please provide copies of any correspondence from yourself to BLM and FS demonstrating you followed through with that action. To date, it appears your focus has ignored the habitat responsibility of federal land management agencies.   I see that there is a recent focus on what is referred to as “key non-federal habitats.” I am aware of the Natural Resources Conservation Service report that USFWS Nevada State Supervisor Ted Koch mischaracterized to conclude that such a resource exists. I'd like to know if the Service believes that key “federal” habitat exists in Nevada. Given the small percentage of private land ownership, the claim that the most important habitat acreage lies in 14 percent of Nevada while there is none in the federal 86 percent of the state is frankly incredible.    Additionally, in conversation in my Reno and D.C. offices with Mr. Koch and Nevada Department of Wildlife Director Tony Wasley, it was routinely acknowledged that the concept of wet meadow key habitat was, like all habitats, in need of quantification and mapping so as to identify, among other salient facts, who owns such areas.  The Service’s conclusion, as adopted in your letter, represents an individual interpretation of one report. Is this how the Service makes an administrative record? Eighty-six percent federal ownership of Nevada, but the wet meadows are all in the private, state and municipal 14 percent? Simply put, this is unbelievable, incredible and without anything resembling documentary or scientific support. Please forward a copy of the Service’s map establishing location and ownership of key non-federal wet meadows in Nevada.  Might I suggest, when supplying the requested data on federal land ownership in Nevada along with land ownership held privately in the name of the State or in the name of municipalities, that you not use the same data that was provided in the Service’s Capitol Hill briefing on October 6 to Congressional staff. Apparently, the Service is over-representing state and privately-owned land in Nevada by six million acres. The amount of acreage composing the 14 percent of the state that is not federally owned is approximately 13 million acres, not 19 million. I am not encouraged by the factual foundation, attention to detail or scientific basis of the Capitol Hill briefing when we are nearly a decade down the road with the Service keeping an eye on Sage Hen habitat. If credibility plays any role in statements, letters and briefings and in your ultimate decision; unilateral un-substantiated conclusions, conflicting analysis, advice and outright ignorance of basic facts have got to end.   I am absolutely astounded at the conclusion in your correspondence regarding habitat. Specific reference is made on page two of the October 1 letter, paragraph three:  “Given the uncertainty of being able to create sagebrush habitat and, if habitat can be created, the added uncertainty of use by sage grouse, the loss of good occupied sagebrush habitat has to be considered a serious consequence with low likelihood of mitigation success.  Creating sage grouse habitat is not mitigation for loss of occupied sage grouse habitat.”  Ren, I had no idea, based on conversations from USFWS Director Dan Ashe on down through Sacramento, Denver and in Nevada, that the Service had come to the conclusion that sagebrush habitat could not be “created”! I am further surprised to learn that the Service concluded the Sage Hen will not use restored habitat. Please provide the supporting data that you and your Service consultants are relying on to support these conclusions. I am intrigued to hear why $32 million from NRCS and other agencies for habitat work for the Bi-State subspecies is a good thing; and the Service has recently put forth cost estimates for habitat work for the Greater Sage Hen across the West for $1 billion and yet, as of October 1, you indicate to Nevada that habitat creation is not looked upon favorably by the Service. Wow!   Please share with me your thoughts on what we have all been doing in the West for the past decade with respect to habitat loss and fragmentation if the Service’s position is that habitat cannot be restored or, if restored, utilized by the Greater Sage Hen. If this is in fact the Service’s position, the phrases “self-fulfilling prophecy” and “subterfuge to end multiple-use in the West” certainly take on a focused credibility.   Finally, I'm not sure what it takes for the Service to acknowledge that the overwhelming threat to Nevada Sage Hen habitat is and, for the past three decades, has been catastrophic wildland fire.  Cheatgrass does not precede fire in Nevada’s sagebrush steppe ecosystem. In Nevada, BLM alone has burned more than 6.8 million acres in the past 20 years. Compare this to the fact that at the same time BLM and FS district managers and district rangers have permitted about 150,000 acres for mining operations. Additionally, the number of cattle grazing on federal allotments is down 20 percent. The sheep grazing on federal allotments is down 80 percent. If it is really about habitat, Ren, the inescapable conclusion is that we are losing habitat to fire, not decisions made by federal land managers in Nevada. There can be no clearer illustration of this fact than the reality that mining permits, for example, represent approximately two percent of total acreage lost to fire in Nevada in the last 20 years.  Yet the Service remains focused on every threat, but wildland fire. Specifically, what is the Service’s position on wildfire management in Sage Hen habitat in Nevada?  Also, why is the Service not advising the BLM to be more proactive on addressing wild horse and burro populations as is the case in the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge in Northwestern Nevada? The Service clearly states on its website (www.fws.gov/sheldonhartmtn/sheldon/horseburro.html):   “The horse and burro populations on Sheldon are causing negative impacts to native wildlife and their habitats. Conflicts over scarce water in this desert environment include trampling of vegetation along stream banks and at springheads, physical exclusion of other species by dominant stud horses and burros, and contamination from feces and urine. Horses and burros also cause habitat degradation by trampling and destroying vegetation in the upland areas. Together, these areas provide important habitat for native species such as sage-grouse… especially during the brooding seasons.”  What is the Service's position with respect to wild horses and Sage Hen habitat in the rest of Nevada? Is the Service attempting to restore Sage Hen habitat on the Sheldon? Does the Service have Sage Hen lek and population numbers and historical trends on the Sheldon pursuant to the Service’s habitat management operations? If so, please forward that data. I would like to see how the Sheldon management compares with your present Nevada plan suggestions.  As you can tell, I am of the opinion that the subject correspondence represents a major departure from your offer to “put the goal posts in granite” as stated the last time you and USFWS Mountain-Prairie Regional Director Noreen Walsh were in my D.C. office. I am not fond of letters, much less long ones. I regret that the most recent positions put forth under your leadership cannot be dealt with informally. Frankly, I am wondering if I was wasting everyone’s time the past three years in discussing habitat loss and fragmentation in the context of fire.  Kindly advise as to your response regarding the questions contained above. Reference made to your “spirit of assistance” in the attached letter. Should your response not be forthcoming within 30 days, I will advise my colleagues of your desire to communicate in the formal hearing context and begin work on scheduling appropriate field and Capitol Hill hearings.                                                                                                                   Cordially,  Mark E. Amodei  Member of Congress     CC:   Representative Doc Hastings  Representative Rob Bishop  Representative Ken Calvert  Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval  Nevada Sagebrush Ecosystem Council  Interior Secretary Sally Jewell  USFWS Director Dan Ashe  BLM Director Neil Kornze  BLM Nevada State Director Amy Lueders  USFWS Nevada State Supervisor Ted Koch  USFS Forest Supervisor, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Bill Dunkelberger  USFWS Mountain-Prairie Regional Director Noreen Walsh     # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140228083024/http://heck.house.gov/event/job-fair-and-career-skills-workshop,Job Fair and Career Skills Workshop,2014-10-01,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Congressman Joe Heck will host a job fair and interview skills workshop on Monday, March 17 at the Silverton Hotel and Casino on Blue Diamond Road. The fair will be held in the Veil Pavilion from 10am - 2pm and will feature more than 40 employers LOOKING TO HIRE, as well as a resume workshop and interview skills seminar.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-pyramid-lake-bill-signed-law,Amodei Pyramid Lake bill signed into law,2014-09-26,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

RENO, NEV. – Today, President Obama signed into law Congressman Mark Amodei's (NV-2) Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe – Fish Springs Ranch Settlement Act.

""This is good news for water users in the Truckee Meadows and suggests some hope that the process in Legislative and the Executive branches still works,” said Amodei.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140927102450/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=445,Amodei Pyramid Lake bill signed into law,2014-09-26,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155  RENO, NEV. – Today, President Obama signed into law Congressman Mark Amodei's (NV-2) Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe – Fish Springs Ranch Settlement Act.  ""This is good news for water users in the Truckee Meadows and suggests some hope that the process in Legislative and the Executive branches still works,” said Amodei.   The bill ratifies an agreement between the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe and Fish Springs Ranch to resolve a dispute over water rights. For more information, see: http://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/house-passes-amodei-pyramid-lake-bill/ # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=d82a326b-0897-4e13-919a-f032e0e75a08,"Heller, Tester, Huizenga, and Meeks Join to Keep Insurance Regulation Process Transparent",2014-09-26,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Jon Tester (D-MT) along with Congressmen Bill Huizenga (R-MI)  and Gregory Meeks (D-NY) issued the following statement after joining to introduce a bipartisan and bicameral resolution in both the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate to promote an open and transparent process with regard to the recent proposal introduced by the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) to prohibit public observers from their meetings:  
“The IAIS must have an open and transparent process for the public to view. Holding working groups and other meetings in secrecy only discredit the decisions made by IAIS. It is critical for IAIS to have an open process to ensure input from policymakers and participants around the globe,” said Senator Heller.    
“Transparency is key to good, responsible government,” Tester said. “Whether in Montana, the U.S. Congress, or internationally, transparency holds folks accountable to those they serve. This resolution sends a clear message that the Association’s recent efforts to reduce transparency and public participation should be abandoned to ensure that an open process is maintained.”
“Openness and transparency are vital to ensuring that regulators take into account the impact of their decisions on consumers. The International Association of Insurance Supervisors’ (IAIS) suggestion to close its meetings to consumers and impacted industries is a very large step in the wrong direction. I am glad to see bipartisan and bicameral support in rejecting the idea of another group of bureaucrats attempting to shut the American people out of the regulatory process,” said Congressman Huizenga.
“International collaboration is essential in reaching cross border standards to safeguard against systemic risks in our global insurance markets. I therefore welcome IAIS continued efforts in seeking harmonized global standards, which should be adopted with the greatest level of transparency. The process should be inclusive and open to key stakeholders, including industry groups to ensure that adopted standards have been fully deliberated and understood by all parties,” added Congressman Meeks.
Attached are the Senate and House resolutions.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-resignation-us-attorney-general-eric-holder,Amodei statement on resignation of U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder,2014-09-25,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

RENO, Nev. – After learning that U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder will resign, Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) released the following statement:

“Thank you.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140926133158/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=444,Amodei statement on resignation of U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder,2014-09-25,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155  RENO, Nev. – After learning that U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder will resign, Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) released the following statement:  “Thank you.”  # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=bc093d52-0f7f-4919-b310-35243f247983,Heller Questions Treasurys Decision to Reward Bad Behavior at GM,2014-09-25,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) sent the following letter to United States Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew seeking answers as to the Treasury Department’s past decision to relax executive pay limits for General Motors’ (GM) top 25 employees despite documented problems at the company with faulty vehicles:  

September 25, 2014
The Honorable Jacob Lew
Secretary, United States Department of the Treasury
1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20220
 
Dear Secretary Lew:
I am writing to you regarding the U.S Treasury Department’s past decision to relax executive pay limits and allow excessive pay for Top 25 employees at General Motors (GM).  As the
Ranking Member of the Consumer Protection, Product Safety and Insurance Subcommittee of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, I have been actively investigating GM’s past failures to recall millions of vehicles due to safety concerns.
I am extremely concerned to learn that while GM officials were being allowed to receive excessive pay raises, they were producing defective vehicles that had faulty ignition switches that could slip from “Run” to “Accessory” with just subtle contact or by simply going over a bump.  At a time when GM’s negligence resulted in millions of defective cars being left on road, this past decision by your agency enhances the notion that the federal government was more interested in rewarding a select number of company officials instead of maintaining proper oversight over GM.
Given the fact taxpayer bailed out GM is currently being examined by government agencies for its past mistakes further demonstrates to me that, of the companies operating today, GM is by far the one company whose executives should have had their pay cut, and not inflated by the federal government.  I respectfully request that you provide me with a detailed response to the following questions.
1)      How did the U.S. Treasury Department justify rewarding a company with authorized pay raises that failed to understand how their own products were built and put the lives of millions of Americans at risk?
2)      What was the merit the U.S. Treasury Department used in deciding to reward high-ranking officials at GM that caused multi-billion dollar losses to U.S. taxpayers that bailed them out? 
This is yet again another sad example of how out of touch officials in Washington, DC are with the American public.  I look forward to your response by Thursday, October 9th.
Sincerely,
DEAN HELLER
U.S. Senator
 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=15097033-961d-4ca7-812e-33d61e4efc44,CONGRATULATING  COMMANDER DAVID SOUSA,2014-09-23,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRATULATING
COMMANDER DAVID SOUSA
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
September 17th, 2014 
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate David Sousa on his being elected the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Nevada Department Commander for 2015.   I am proud to honor a Nevadan who has dedicated his life to serving our country and is committed to ensuring that our nation’s heroes receive the care that they deserve.
Commander Sousa has had a long and decorated military career in the United States Army for over 25 years.  During his service, he has served missions in Kenya and Somolia and went on to serve in “Operation Iraqi Freedom” in Abu Ghraib, Iraq, as a member of the 72nd Military Police Company.  He also went on to serve in “Operation Enduring Freedom” in Kandahar, Afghanistan, as a member of the 422nd Expeditionary Signal Battalion. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Commander Sousa for his courageous contributions to the United States of America and to freedom-loving nations around the world. His service to his country and his bravery and dedication earn him a place among the outstanding men and women who have valiantly defended our nation.
As a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I recognize the important role the Veterans of Foreign Wars plays for combat veterans and military service members from the active, Guard, and Reserve forces. This distinguished national group of veterans has been a constant influence, furthering the voice of all of our nation’s heroes. On July 22, 2014, at the 115th National Convention, David Sousa was elected Nevada Department Commander.  Commander Sousa has served and held many roles within the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization for the past ten years and has previously been named the VFW Outstanding Veteran for 2006.  His work for the VFW is exemplary, and I expect great things from him as he assumes his role as Nevada’s Department Commander.
Commander Sousa’s focus of his work for this year is suicide prevention and awareness for veterans, as well as working towards a safer community for veterans.  I commend Commander Sousa on this important goal and look forward to working with him to achieve this.  As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I recognize that Congress has a responsibility not only to honor these brave individuals who serve our nation but also to ensure they are cared for when they return home.  I am concerned about the needs of Nevada’s veterans, especially those suffering one of the most common injuries from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars—post-traumatic stress. I believe Congress has a responsibility to enact policies that will help veterans overcome these difficulties and ensure that the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs have the resources necessary to meet the growing needs of Nevada and our nation’s veteran communities.  I remain committed to upholding this promise for our veterans and service members in Nevada and throughout the nation.
I am both humbled and honored by Commander Sousa’s service and am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan.  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Commander Sousa for all of his accomplishments and wish him well in all of his future endeavors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=666f2168-326d-4d1c-ac45-6ee4255eeb7c,RECOGNIZING WASHOE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS  AIR NATIONAL GUARD,2014-09-23,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"RECOGNIZING WASHOE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT’S
AIR NATIONAL GUARD
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
September 17, 2014
Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize and congratulate the Washoe County School District’s Air National Guard for receiving the Secretary of Defense Freedom Award. 
Former Secretary of Defense, William Perry, developed the Secretary of Defense Freedom Award under the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve office in 1996.   Each year, up to 15 awards are presented to employers in three categories: large business, small business, and the public sector.  The award honors employers who have shown exceptional support to their Guard and Reserve employees and have gone above and beyond what is federally mandated to ensure that their military employees are well taken care of.  This esteemed award is the highest in a series of Department of Defense employer awards, and I congratulate Washoe County School District’s Air National Guard on being selected as one of only 190 employers to receive this award.
Washoe County School District’s Air National Guard’s extraordinary level of support they provide to their service members is admirable, and I am both humbled and honored to acknowledge Washoe County School District’s Air National Guard here today.  During deployment, the school district takes the time to send emails and care packages to the brave men and women.  Its support services also extend to the members’ families.  Washoe County teachers volunteer their own time to help children and spouses who are in need of assistance by babysitting, housecleaning, and running errands. The school district has also been commended for the support it showed after a fellow Guardsman and teacher, Michael Landsberry, was killed defending students during a shooting at Sparks Middle School last year. 
Each and every day, our troops are serving the United States to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.  They dedicate their lives to serve this great nation and constantly make grave sacrifices to ensure the safety of our country. Our service members and their families deserve our gratitude and thanks, and as a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I am committed to keeping our nation’s promise to care for them.  There is no way to adequately thank the men and women that lay down their lives for our freedoms, but Washoe County School District’s Air National Guard has shown an unwavering dedication and commitment to ensuring that our service members and their families are getting the support that they deserve.
I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in congratulating Washoe County School District’s Air National Guard and know that they serve as an example for the rest of the Silver State.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=bd7dbc9f-b6ff-4505-b45b-cc68570970e9,RECOGNIZING VETERANS VILLAGE,2014-09-23,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"RECOGNIZING VETERAN'S VILLAGE
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
September 17, 2014
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, today I wish to recognize Veteran’s Village in Las Vegas, Nevada, for its commitment and dedication to providing our veterans with transitional and permanent housing.  Veteran’s Village is the only 24 hour, 7 day a week social service facility for veterans in Las Vegas.
The brave men and women who served the United States and fought to protect our freedom have often come home to a struggling economy.  A number of veterans are unable to find a job or afford to buy or rent a home.  As the demographics of our Armed Forces have changed throughout the years, so too have the needs of homeless veterans. As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, this is an issue I have been personally involved with and have introduced legislation to address.  Organizations like the Veteran’s Village serve to help those in need in an environment of respect and dignity within the Las Vegas community. This organization is a shining example of the kind of initiatives that will help get our veterans back on their feet.
There is no way to adequately thank the men and women that lay down their lives for our freedoms, but the founders and volunteers at the Veteran’s Village are working to assist our nation’s veterans by giving them shelter while they try to rebuild their lives.  The organization was founded by Dr. Arnold Stalk, who envisioned turning the old Econo Lodge into a facility to house our homeless veterans.  With the help of public and private collaborative partnerships, Veteran’s Village has created a home environment for our nation’s heroes who need a helping hand.  This organization’s continued dedication to serving veterans through providing skills training, nutrition, employment training and referrals, continuing education and degree programs, medical services, mental health counseling and much more is commendable, and I am proud to honor this organization here today.
As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I know the struggles that our veterans face after returning home from the battlefield. Congress has a responsibility not only to honor these brave individuals, but to ensure they receive the quality care they have earned and deserve.  I remain committed to upholding this promise for our veterans and service members in Nevada and throughout the nation.  I am very pleased that veterans’ service organizations like the Veteran’s Village are committed to ensuring that the needs of our veterans are being met.
Today, I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in recognizing the Veteran’s Village, an organization whose mission is both noble and charitable. I am both humbled and honored to acknowledge the Veteran’s Village and its work to end homelessness for veterans throughout the United States, and I wish it the best of luck in all of its future endeavors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-pyramid-lake-bill-passes-senate-set-become-law,"Amodei Pyramid Lake bill passes Senate, set to become law",2014-09-19,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a hopeful sign for the Northern Nevada lands bills awaiting a vote in the Senate, Congressman Mark Amodei's (NV-2) Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe – Fish Springs Ranch Settlement Act last night passed the Senate and is now headed to the President for signature.

""I want to thank Senators Reid and Heller for their work to pass this bill, as well as Senator Flake for releasing his hold,"" said Amodei. ""This is good news for water users in the Truckee Meadows.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140926133359/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=443,"Amodei Pyramid Lake bill passes Senate, set to become law",2014-09-19,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155  WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a hopeful sign for the Northern Nevada lands bills awaiting a vote in the Senate, Congressman Mark Amodei's (NV-2) Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe – Fish Springs Ranch Settlement Act last night passed the Senate and is now headed to the President for signature.  ""I want to thank Senators Reid and Heller for their work to pass this bill, as well as Senator Flake for releasing his hold,"" said Amodei. ""This is good news for water users in the Truckee Meadows.""  The bill ratifies an agreement between the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe and Fish Springs Ranch to resolve a dispute over water rights. For more information, see: http://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/house-passes-amodei-pyramid-lake-bill/ # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=64ca400c-1538-4fb3-ac86-5f49c7ee783d,Heller Applauds Fish Springs Ranch Water Settlement Legislation,2014-09-19,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after legislation passed the United States Senate last night bringing a resolution to the Fish Springs Ranch water settlement in Northern Nevada. Since 2005, the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe and the Fish Springs Ranch, LLC, have been involved in litigation over a proposed Fish Springs Ranch water project which could impact Pyramid Lake.
The Tribe and Vidler have negotiated and finalized a settlement agreement which would allow the water project to move forward in return for $3.6 million and the transfer of several hundred acres of land to the Tribe. The Tribe will waive its claims to any existing and claimed water rights. This legislation would approve the settlement agreement and would have no cost to taxpayers.
“With water being such a precious resource in Nevada, I’m proud this bipartisan proposal moved to the final phase of a resolution: the President’s desk. This dispute has been settled in a mutually beneficial manner for all parties involved. Best of all, this agreement is a key piece of future resource planning in the Truckee Meadows and will allow for long-term planning to progress in the region. This has been a long-standing issue, and I’m pleased to see this was resolved before the end of the year.” stated Senator Heller.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=b97addd7-dab0-4de8-bc8e-437846729ae7,"Senators Heller, Hatch, and Coons Introduce Legislation to Protect Americans Electronic Data Stored Abroad",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(WASHINGTON, DC) – U.S. Senators Dean Heller, Orrin Hatch (R-UT), current member and former Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Chris Coons (D-DE), member of the Judiciary Committee, introduced legislation today to amend the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) by addressing the conflict of laws for cloud services providers in order to safeguard Americans’ electronic data stored abroad. The Law Enforcement Access to Data Stored Abroad (LEADS) Act ensures that law enforcement has the tools necessary to execute search warrants where necessary, so long as they comply with the laws of the foreign country where the electronic data is stored.
“I am proud to work with Senator Hatch and Senator Coons on the LEADS Act,” Heller said.  “Broadband internet extends beyond borders and our laws need to balance the privacy rights law-abiding citizens are guaranteed under the 4th Amendment with the ability for law enforcement to do its job. This legislation is a step in the right direction providing the necessary clarity with our laws, and I am pleased to join in this effort.” 
“The way electronic data is used and stored globally has changed considerably since Congress enacted ECPA nearly 30 years ago,” Hatch said. “This presents unique challenges for a number of industries, who are often faced with the question of whose laws they must follow – American law or the laws where the electronic data is stored. Senators Coons and Heller understand the uncertainty created by this conflict of laws and that we should address this serious and growing problem as Congress undertakes ECPA reforms.”
""Law enforcement agencies wishing to access Americans' data in the cloud ought to get a warrant,” Coons said, “and just like warrants for physical evidence, warrants for content under ECPA shouldn’t authorize seizure of communications that are located in a foreign country.  The government’s position that ECPA warrants do apply abroad puts U.S. cloud providers in the position of having to break the privacy laws of foreign countries in which they do business in order to comply with U.S. law.  This not only hurts our businesses’ competitiveness and costs American jobs, but it also invites reciprocal treatment by our international trading partners.""
Click here for a section-by-section summary of the Hatch-Coons-Heller LEADS Act. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-authorization-train-and-equip-syrian-rebels,Amodei statement on authorization to train and equip Syrian rebels,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today voted against an amendment to authorize training and equipping “appropriately vetted elements of the Syrian opposition.” He released the following statement:

“Earlier in the conflict, before the influx of foreign fighters to Syria and the rise of ISIS, it may have been possible to identify reliable, non-Islamist elements of the Syrian rebels who could be counted on to hasten the downfall of the Iranian-backed, Russian-backed Assad regime. That opportunity appears to have been missed and we do not know who the people are that we would train and provide equipment. Or, more importantly, at whom that equipment would be pointed.

“There is an old saying of, ‘do something, even if it’s wrong.’ Well this represents nothing and it is wrong.

“We need real leadership to undo the damage of the administration’s failure to secure a status of forces agreement in Iraq and its misapplication of ‘red lines’ in Syria, both of which created a predictable vacuum filled by ISIS. Sadly, the same administration that previously characterized this legitimate national security threat as the ‘jayvee team’ now wants us to trust its hasty strategy to address the growing problem. Because of the administration’s inability to articulate a coherent vision or even to describe what victory would look like, I cannot support this authorization.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140919105344/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=442,Amodei statement on authorization to train and equip Syrian rebels,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155  WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today voted against an amendment to authorize training and equipping “appropriately vetted elements of the Syrian opposition.” He released the following statement:  “Earlier in the conflict, before the influx of foreign fighters to Syria and the rise of ISIS, it may have been possible to identify reliable, non-Islamist elements of the Syrian rebels who could be counted on to hasten the downfall of the Iranian-backed, Russian-backed Assad regime. That opportunity appears to have been missed and we do not know who the people are that we would train and provide equipment. Or, more importantly, at whom that equipment would be pointed.  “There is an old saying of, ‘do something, even if it’s wrong.’ Well this represents nothing and it is wrong.  “We need real leadership to undo the damage of the administration’s failure to secure a status of forces agreement in Iraq and its misapplication of ‘red lines’ in Syria, both of which created a predictable vacuum filled by ISIS. Sadly, the same administration that previously characterized this legitimate national security threat as the ‘jayvee team’ now wants us to trust its hasty strategy to address the growing problem. Because of the administration’s inability to articulate a coherent vision or even to describe what victory would look like, I cannot support this authorization.”         # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=131dd967-3d32-45b6-b6f9-81306ea309b4,Heller Statement on Heck Promotion to Brigadier General,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the United States Senate voted in favor of the promotion of Congressman Joe Heck (R-NV), currently a colonel in the United States Army Reserve, to Brigadier General. Heck must still be officially sworn into his new position: 
""I couldn’t be more proud of the nomination of Joe Heck to Brigadier General. Joe has many titles: doctor, Congressman, and now General. However, my favorite one is friend. He has served our country in the United States Army Reserve Medical Corps since 1991 and has been called to active duty three times, including a deployment to Iraq in 2008 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. That’s why I respect Joe so much. He’s a brave veteran who understands what so many of our nation’s soldiers experience both here at home and on the battlefield. Not to mention, Joe and I served together in the United States House of Representatives. He’s an active member and brought his expertise on military matters to Capitol Hill. Many people lean on him for advice in order to gain a better understanding of issues affecting the military. I am honored to serve with him in the Nevada delegation and am even more excited for his success."" 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=7ec78e17-c838-4352-a030-8f3c69acba6b,Heller Makes Road Safety in Nevada a Priority by Calling for Flexibility in Safe-Driving Legislation,2014-09-16,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – Today, United States Senator Dean Heller spoke at the Senate Commerce Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance Subcommittee hearing, “Oversight of and Policy Considerations for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,” about the importance of states individually deciding what legislation is necessary to improve safety on the roads. Specifically in Nevada, Heller cited growth within the state on I-11 is a priority in keeping the roads safe with the opening of the Tesla Gigafactory.
REMARKS AS PREPARED:
Good afternoon, thank you Chairman McCaskill for calling this hearing today.  I appreciate our witnesses being here and I look forward to this important discussion on NHTSA and its progress in implementing various requirements under MAP-21.
NHTSA plays a vital role in ensuring the highest standards in motor vehicles and highway safety so that we are continually working toward preventing crashes and keeping motorists safe.
I think it goes without saying both the Chairman and I have been very interested in the process at NHTSA, especially in light of the General Motors recall.  As it relates to NHTSA, we have paid close attention to what information NHTSA was able to obtain from the car company, what it did with it, and what its role was in the delay to get these cars recalled.
After multiple hearings, I have come to the conclusion that General Motors bears the majority of the blame. NHTSA cannot be effective when auto manufacturers withhold information.  
General Motors has admitted that they did not fully understand how their vehicles were built which led to a decade long delay to understand the root cause of the air bag non-deployment was an ignition switch that slipped from run to accessory too easily. 
However, NHTSA could have performed better.  Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans released a staff report this morning that finds among other things, that NHTSA is struggling to keep pace with the industry it oversees. 
This is not a new problem.  As some of you may know, in 2009, NHTSA was forced to enlist the help of NASA to supplement its understanding of computer-controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference, and software integrity as they relate to unintended acceleration. 
I hope we can use today’s hearing to identify areas for improvement at NHTSA, including its internal process for identifying issues and connecting the dots. 
I am also concerned the President has not filled the vacancy for the position of Administrator at NHTSA.  The task of addressing any shortcomings at the agency and implementing any necessary improvements may be challenging for a deputy Administrator without the endorsement of the President’s nomination and the Senate’s confirmation.    
This is all very important for highway safety across America, but NHTSA  is also becoming more important for the for the state of Nevada.
Madame Chairman, you may have heard TESLA has selected Nevada for its Gigafactory.
I was proud to help bring TESLA to Nevada. The jobs it will create coupled with the economic boom it will cause in the state are both welcomed benefits of this massive investment.
This factory will bring over 6500 direct, high-paying jobs and billions of dollars in economic impact. This project will increase the employment in the region by more than 20%.
The facility will be one of the largest in the world with five million square feet of the factory devoted to battery manufacturing. This makes Nevada the epicenter of clean vehicle technology.
All of this means Nevada is growing.  With that growth, we will need the necessary infrastructure to move people around safely and efficiently.
That is why I am also working on extending Interstate 11 beyond Las Vegas to the northwest part of the state. 
And, it is also why I have such an interest in the programs NHTSA administers.
Nevada is going to need flexibility to address the specific state needs and challenges, and I look forward to hearing from our witnesses – in particular, from the Governors State Highway Safety Association – on how best to allocate federal funds to maximize state flexibility without compromising national safety priorities.
Nevada was one of the leading states to develop a Strategic Highway Safety Plan even before it was required by law because Nevada’s highway safety goal is simple: zero fatalities.
Nevada has emphasized five critical areas for reduction of fatal and serious injury crashes that center on:
1)      Lane departures – the majority of rural roadway fatalities in Nevada are from lane departures.
2)      Pedestrians
3)      Impaired Drivers
4)      Occupant Protection
5)      Intersections
My point in explaining this is that other states may have critical areas and that states may want to allocate funding differently than Nevada.
As we work toward a reauthorization of NHTSA, I want the record to note how different each state is. Therefore, we need a plan flexible enough so each state can come up with a strategy best suited for each individual state to achieve its goal of zero fatalities on the road.
Thank you Chairman McCaskill.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=9aaa222a-4578-4bfd-801a-dffb63bfe6d8,Heller Welcomes Passage of Northern Nevada Lands Bill in U.S. House,2014-09-15,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) – United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) welcomed passage of the Northern Nevada Land Conservation and Economic Development Act (H.R. 5205) by the House of Representatives earlier tonight. Introduced by Congressman Mark Amodei (R-NV), this legislation contains highly valued measures for the state of Nevada, including job-creating measures such as the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act.
“From Day One, Mark worked extremely hard to negotiate a compromise with the Nevada House delegation and the Republican and Democrat House leadership. Public lands bills bring the Nevada delegation together, and Mark’s efforts to usher this legislation through the United States House of Representatives should be applauded.  
“I support this legislation and will work with Senator Reid and the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee to ensure this proposal appears on the President’s desk for signature prior to the end of the 113th Congress,” said Senator Heller. 
Two of the largest components of H.R.5205 are the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act and the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act, two long-standing proposals that would spur economic development, enhance U.S. national security, and conserve areas where thousands of Nevadans hunt, fish, camp, and hike every year.  Both of these proposals were jointly introduced by Senator Heller and Senator Reid, and cleared the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in 2013. 
Senator Heller, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, has also worked on counterparts to the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act, the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act and legislation to fix Storey County’s land issue, the Nevada Mining Townsite Conveyance Act. He supports all seven titles of Northern Nevada Public Lands package and will work to see them enacted before the end of this Congress.   
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/northern-nevada-lands-bills-scheduled-final-passage-house,Northern Nevada lands bills scheduled for final passage by House,2014-09-12,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact:

Brian Baluta (Amodei) 202-225-6155

Tim Hogan (Horsford) 202-225-9894

WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy today announced that ahistoric package of Northern Nevada lands bills – six introduced by Rep. Mark Amodei (NV-2) and one by Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4) – is scheduled for final passage in the House as a bipartisan suspension bill on Monday, September 15.

“I want to thank Eric Cantor and Kevin McCarthy and their staffs for their support and assistance in moving these measures to the House floor in two consecutive Congresses,” said Amodei. “After expected passage by the House, for the second time, on Monday evening, I will sit by my phone waiting for the call from Senators Reid and Heller inviting me to the White House to see the President sign this consensus and long overdue Nevada legislation.”

“After years of hard work, this bill is scheduled and ready to go,” said Horsford. “Yerington desperately needs an economic jolt, and this job-creating legislation will put Nevadans back to work. The Yerington Jobs Bill is an example of what we can get done in Washington when we put petty partisan differences aside and come together for the good of our constituents. For Nevadans this is long overdue, but with hard work and determination we got this done.”

H.R. 5205, the Northern Nevada Land Conservation and Economic Development Act includes the following measures:

H.R. 433, the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act, would designate approximately 26,000 acres within the Blue Lakes and Alder Creek Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) as the Pine Forest Range Wilderness Area and release approximately 1,000 acres of the existing WSA lands. The bill would also direct the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to exchange federal lands surrounding nearby ranches for private parcels within the existing WSAs to allow for management of public lands and ensure the economic viability of privately owned ranches.

H.R. 696, the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act, would enable the City of Yerington to partner with Nevada Copper to purchase, at fair market value, and develop approximately 10,000 acres of BLM land surrounding the Pumpkin Hollow project site for industrial, recreational, and infrastructure purposes. The bill would also designate approximately 48,000 acres in Lyon County as the Wovoka Wilderness Area.

H.R. 1167, the Restoring Storey County Act, would transfer the surface rights to approximately 1,745 acres of BLM land in Virginia City to Storey County to resolve conflicting ownership and title claims.

H.R. 1168, the Carlin Economic Self-Determination Act, would give the City of Carlin the opportunity to purchase, at fair market value, approximately 1,400 acres of BLM land surrounding the city for the purpose of multi-use development.

H.R. 1169, the Naval Air Station Fallon Housing and Safety Development Act, would transfer an approximately 400 acre BLM parcel within the confines of the Fallon Naval Air Station to the Secretary of the Navy. This land would be used for housing Navy families and would provide needed flexibility to grow the base.

H.R. 1170, the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act, would give the City of Fernley the opportunity to purchase, at fair market value, up to approximately 9,114 acres of BLM and Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) lands within the city boundaries at fair market value for the purpose of multi-use development.

H.R. 2455, the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act, would give Elko County and the Te-moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians of Nevada the opportunity to purchase, at fair market value, approximately 275 acres of BLM land to be used as a motocross, bicycle, off-highway vehicle, or stock car racing area.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140913104205/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=441,Northern Nevada lands bills scheduled for final passage by House,2014-09-12,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE            Contact:                Brian Baluta (Amodei) 202-225-6155  Tim Hogan (Horsford) 202-225-9894  WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy today announced that ahistoric package of Northern Nevada lands bills – six introduced by Rep. Mark Amodei (NV-2) and one by Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4) – is scheduled for final passage in the House as a bipartisan suspension bill on Monday, September 15.  “I want to thank Eric Cantor and Kevin McCarthy and their staffs for their support and assistance in moving these measures to the House floor in two consecutive Congresses,” said Amodei. “After expected passage by the House, for the second time, on Monday evening, I will sit by my phone waiting for the call from Senators Reid and Heller inviting me to the White House to see the President sign this consensus and long overdue Nevada legislation.”  “After years of hard work, this bill is scheduled and ready to go,” said Horsford. “Yerington desperately needs an economic jolt, and this job-creating legislation will put Nevadans back to work. The Yerington Jobs Bill is an example of what we can get done in Washington when we put petty partisan differences aside and come together for the good of our constituents. For Nevadans this is long overdue, but with hard work and determination we got this done.”  H.R. 5205, the Northern Nevada Land Conservation and Economic Development Act includes the following measures:  H.R. 433, the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act, would designate approximately 26,000 acres within the Blue Lakes and Alder Creek Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) as the Pine Forest Range Wilderness Area and release approximately 1,000 acres of the existing WSA lands. The bill would also direct the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to exchange federal lands surrounding nearby ranches for private parcels within the existing WSAs to allow for management of public lands and ensure the economic viability of privately owned ranches.  H.R. 696, the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act, would enable the City of Yerington to partner with Nevada Copper to purchase, at fair market value, and develop approximately 10,000 acres of BLM land surrounding the Pumpkin Hollow project site for industrial, recreational, and infrastructure purposes. The bill would also designate approximately 48,000 acres in Lyon County as the Wovoka Wilderness Area.  H.R. 1167, the Restoring Storey County Act, would transfer the surface rights to approximately 1,745 acres of BLM land in Virginia City to Storey County to resolve conflicting ownership and title claims.  H.R. 1168, the Carlin Economic Self-Determination Act, would give the City of Carlin the opportunity to purchase, at fair market value, approximately 1,400 acres of BLM land surrounding the city for the purpose of multi-use development.  H.R. 1169, the Naval Air Station Fallon Housing and Safety Development Act, would transfer an approximately 400 acre BLM parcel within the confines of the Fallon Naval Air Station to the Secretary of the Navy. This land would be used for housing Navy families and would provide needed flexibility to grow the base.  H.R. 1170, the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act, would give the City of Fernley the opportunity to purchase, at fair market value, up to approximately 9,114 acres of BLM and Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) lands within the city boundaries at fair market value for the purpose of multi-use development.  H.R. 2455, the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act, would give Elko County and the Te-moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians of Nevada the opportunity to purchase, at fair market value, approximately 275 acres of BLM land to be used as a motocross, bicycle, off-highway vehicle, or stock car racing area.  # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-911-anniversary,Amodei statement on 9/11 anniversary,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today released the following statement on the 13th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks:

“There is a commemorative license plate in Nevada featuring the words ‘United We Stand’ and ‘We Will Never Forget.’ On this 13th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, my thoughts and prayers continue to go out to the 2,977 victims whose lives were mindlessly taken by evil men in the name of radical Islam.

“It is appropriate for us all to not forget the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the ‘Let’s roll’ heroes of Flight 93. It is also appropriate to not forget the victims of more than three decades of such attacks targeting Americans, including:

Bombing of U.S. Embassy, Beirut, Lebanon, April 18, 1983.

Bombing of U.S. Marine barracks, Beirut, Lebanon, October 23, 1983.

Bombing of U.S. Embassy, Kuwait, December 12, 1983.

Bombing of restaurant near U.S. Air Force base in Torrejon, Spain, April 12, 1984.

Hijacking of Kuwait Airlines Flight 221, December 3, 1984.

Hijacking of TWA Flight 847, June 14, 1985.

Hijacking of cruise ship Achille Lauro, October 7, 1985.

Bombing of Vienna and Rome airports, December 27, 1985.

Bombing of La Belle disco, Berlin, April 5, 1986.

Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, December 21, 1988.

First bombing of World Trade Center, February 26, 1993.

Bombing of U.S. military headquarters, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 13, 1995.

Bombing Khobar Towers, U.S. military personnel housing, Khobar, Saudi Arabia, June 25, 1996.

Bombing U.S. Nairobi Embassy, Kenya, August 7, 1998.

Bombing U.S. Dar es Salaam Embassy, Tanzania, August 7, 1998.

Bombing U.S.S. Cole in the port of Aden, Yemen, October 12, 2000.

Fort Hood shooting, Killeen, Texas, November 5, 2009.

Attack of U.S. diplomatic compound, Benghazi, Libya, September 11, 2012.

“It is an uncomfortable, but undeniable fact that those who advocate and practice violent jihad must be dealt with decisively and effectively on a long-term and aggressive basis. To do less is disrespectful to our fellow Americans who have lost their lives. Rest in peace. And to the families of the deceased, I promise I will not forget.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:16Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912012528/http://heck.house.gov/press-release/heck-responds-presidents-speech-isil,Heck Responds to President's Speech on ISIL,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON -- Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) tonight released the following statement in response to the President's speech on ISIL.
""Tonight the President made clear that he now believes ISIL is no longer the ""JV team"" and represents a grave threat to our allies in the Middle East, our own national security, and all of those who stand between them and their radical ideology.""
""I support the President's decision to expand air strikes against ISIL so that ground forces in Iraq can go on the offensive and agree that we must attack this enemy wherever they pose a threat to the United States. The President also laid out a multifaceted strategy to use intelligence, disrupting the flow of foreign fighters and funding, and support for fighters on the ground that, if properly executed, can have a decisive impact on the ability of ISIS to wage jihad.""
""I will continue working with my colleagues on the Armed Services and Intelligence Committees to carefully review the details of these proposals and the authorities for taking action.""
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912134823/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=440,Amodei statement on 9/11 anniversary,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155  WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today released the following statement on the 13th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks:  “There is a commemorative license plate in Nevada featuring the words ‘United We Stand’ and ‘We Will Never Forget.’ On this 13th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, my thoughts and prayers continue to go out to the 2,977 victims whose lives were mindlessly taken by evil men in the name of radical Islam.  “It is appropriate for us all to not forget the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the ‘Let’s roll’ heroes of Flight 93. It is also appropriate to not forget the victims of more than three decades of such attacks targeting Americans, including:  Bombing of U.S. Embassy, Beirut, Lebanon, April 18, 1983.  Bombing of U.S. Marine barracks, Beirut, Lebanon, October 23, 1983.  Bombing of U.S. Embassy, Kuwait, December 12, 1983.  Bombing of restaurant near U.S. Air Force base in Torrejon, Spain, April 12, 1984.  Hijacking of Kuwait Airlines Flight 221, December 3, 1984.  Hijacking of TWA Flight 847, June 14, 1985.  Hijacking of cruise ship Achille Lauro, October 7, 1985.  Bombing of Vienna and Rome airports, December 27, 1985.  Bombing of La Belle disco, Berlin, April 5, 1986.  Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, December 21, 1988.  First bombing of World Trade Center, February 26, 1993.  Bombing of U.S. military headquarters, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 13, 1995.  Bombing Khobar Towers, U.S. military personnel housing, Khobar, Saudi Arabia, June 25, 1996.  Bombing U.S. Nairobi Embassy, Kenya, August 7, 1998.  Bombing U.S. Dar es Salaam Embassy, Tanzania, August 7, 1998.  Bombing U.S.S. Cole in the port of Aden, Yemen, October 12, 2000.  Fort Hood shooting, Killeen, Texas, November 5, 2009.  Attack of U.S. diplomatic compound, Benghazi, Libya, September 11, 2012.  “It is an uncomfortable, but undeniable fact that those who advocate and practice violent jihad must be dealt with decisively and effectively on a long-term and aggressive basis. To do less is disrespectful to our fellow Americans who have lost their lives. Rest in peace. And to the families of the deceased, I promise I will not forget.”  # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=e239c3d9-04c8-4822-9725-0f1f21fcad46,CONGRATULATING ELVIRA CENOZ,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRATULATING ELVIRA CENOZ
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
September 11, 2014    
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Elvira Cenoz on her retirement from the Overland Hotel in Gardnerville, Nevada.  Despite the name, the Overland is not actually a hotel, but one of the finest places for a traditional Basque meal in Nevada.
Since its construction in 1908, the Overland Hotel has been a stopping point for many travelers making their way through Nevada.  Conveniently situated on America’s First Transcontinental Highway, the Lincoln Highway, the Overland Hotel has a long history of welcoming local ranchers, politicians, civic leaders, and weary travelers. The Overland Hotel has since become a place for the Basque culture to be celebrated in Gardnerville. Nevada has a proud Basque history, and the Overland Hotel and Saloon embodies that long and rich tradition.  The Basque people originally settled in Nevada due to our proud ranching traditions. Their hearty cooking and family-centric meals quickly became a staple of Nevada’s local cuisine. 
The Overland Hotel is known throughout the state and to all of its patrons for its authentic Basque Cuisine and charm, which is greatly attributed to Elvira and her late husband Eusebio Cenoz. Eusebio bought the Overland Hotel in 1972 after many years as a sheep herder.  He and Elvira were married in 1980, and she joined her husband to run the restaurant. She soon worked her way back to the kitchen, where she has remained until her retirement this year. Her love of cooking is exemplified in the menu of the Overland Hotel, which changes daily.  The Overland Hotel is not just known for its great food, but also for its friendly service, further embodying the spirit of the Silver State. Patrons are often pleasantly surprised when Elvira herself greets them warmly at their table takes their orders. 
Throughout her years owning and operating the Overland Hotel, Elvira has demonstrated a commitment to preserving and sharing the Basque tradition.  I am both humbled and honored by her many years of hard work and am proud to call her a fellow Nevadan.  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mrs. Cenoz on her much deserved retirement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=f66925aa-8c76-40bc-813d-d35b98d3058a,CONGRATULATING JUAN GUZMAN,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRATULATING JUAN GUZMAN
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
September 11, 2014 
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Juan Guzman on his retirement from his career as Carson City’s Open Space manager.  As a longtime resident of Carson City, I have had the pleasure of getting to know and work with Juan and have seen the impact his contributions have made within the Carson community.  It gives me great pleasure to congratulate him on his retirement after 14 years of hard work and dedication to the Silver State.
Juan, a native of Puerto Rico, earned his degree in geography from the University of Puerto Rico and then went on to complete his graduate studies in the Geography Department with an emphasis on urban studies at the University of California.  Upon the completion of his studies, Juan began his career as a planner in California.  After a trip to the Sierra Nevadas, Juan decided to make the move to Nevada, where he became an Associate Planner in the Community Development Department.  He worked in Douglas County for five years before eventually settling in Carson City, where he began work in a similar capacity.  His diligent work and commitment to the betterment of the Carson community did not go without public recognition, and when the position of Open Space manager was created in 2000, he transitioned from the Community Development’s planning division to Open Space within the Parks and Recreation Department.
During his tenure, Juan is credited with opening up 14 areas for recreational purposes and for natural preservation as well as acquiring several land transfers from the Federal government.  I had the privilege of working closely with Juan on the Carson City Community Vital Act, public lands legislation I introduced while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives that enhanced open space opportunities, strengthened flood control measures, and ensured easy public access to Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service lands surrounding Carson City.  That bill, which became law in 2009, still serves as an example in Congress on how an intensive collaborative process between the public and officials at the local and federal levels can yield positive results for an entire region.  Without Juan, this legislation would have never come together, let alone become law.
While we will all miss Juan, his impact in the Carson City Community will live on. He exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and community service and should be proud of his long and meaningful career. Today, I ask that all of my colleagues join me in congratulating Juan on his retirement, and I offer my deepest appreciation for all that Juan has done to make the great State of Nevada an even better place. I offer my best wishes for many successful and fulfilling years to come.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=2402f3c3-9ca3-4449-a3c0-ae062529ac52,Heller Statement on 13th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement marking the 13th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks:
“Thirteen years ago today, our nation awoke to a tragedy that will never be forgotten, creating unity in the midst of terrible sadness. On this day, many innocent Americans lost their lives in a vicious act committed by violent extremists. Today, we stand together as a nation to commemorate those who lost their lives, those families affected, and the courageous first responders who risked their own lives to save others. 
“But years later, we continue to face great adversity with enemies of freedom. The conflict with extremist organizations has caused unrest across the country and around the world. It is of grave importance to stand together and support our men and women in uniform who continue to serve to keep us safe.” 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912012639/http://heck.house.gov/press-release/southern-nevada-road-closure-information,Southern Nevada Road Closure Information,2014-09-10,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Below is information on road closures in southern Nevada due to recent flooding via the Nevada Department of Transportation. NVDOT can be reached by calling 775-888-7000.  
NDOT Opens Multiple Roads Following Flooding  
	                                                                                       
	Las Vegas – The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) has opened multiple roads overnight following flash flooding Monday afternoon:  
	   
	I-15 closed from mile marker 64 to 112 (Glendale to Mesquite)  
	State Route 168 between Coyote Springs and Moapa    Open as of approximately 1:45 a.m.  
	US 93 at mile markers 78-80 – south of Coyote Springs  Open as of approximately 10 p.m.  
	US 93 at mile markers 54-60 – north of the Glendale junction   Open as of approximately 10 p.m.  
	US 95 at mile marker 1 – Laughlin junction (traffic being diverted through Bullhead City, Arizona)   Open as of approximately 3:30 a.m.  
	   
	Interstate 15 remains closed from mile marker 64 to 112 (Glendale to Mesquite) due to road erosion caused by rushing flood waters. NDOT will make repairs as immediately as possible.
	NDOT officials ask that drivers avoid flooded areas if at all possible. Motorists should plan ahead, expect delays and use alternate routes. Drivers are asked to avoid driving through water because the depth is hard to gauge. Nevada maps for potential detour routes are available by selecting “Travel Info” on www.nevadadot.com.  
	   
	For the latest up-to-the minute road conditions, please visit www.nvroads.com or dial 511 or 1-877-NV-ROADS before driving.
For the very latest on the local traffic situation, follow the Nevada Highway Patrol, Southern Command on Twitter at @NHPSouthernComm
###
More information via the National Park Service:
LAKE MEAD NATIONAL RECREATION AREA News Release
	For Immediate Release: September 9, 2014  
	Release No.: 2014-70  
	Contact: 702-293-8712
	LAKE MEAD TEMPORARILY WAIVES ENTRANCE FEES TO ACCOMMODATE I-15 CLOSURE
	BOULDER CITY, Nevada –The Nevada Department of Transportation has reported that Interstate 15 is closed in both directions from mile marker 64 to 112 north of Las Vegas between Glendale and Mesquite in Clark County Nevada due to flooding.
	To help alleviate traffic congestion and allow drivers to reach their intended destinations, the entrance fee at Lake Mead National Recreation Area is temporarily waived at Northshore, Lake Mead Boulevard, Lake Mead Parkway and Boulder Beach entrance stations, until further notice.
###
Valley of Fire State Park has also waived entrance fees so that drivers can avoid the I-15 closure.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=0ed91157-eb4b-43a7-9e08-3fb3db57d813,Heller Stands Up to NFL to Protect Survivors of Domestic Abuse,2014-09-10,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV), ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance, sent the following letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell prompted by recent events surrounding the NFL’s actions in response to the acts of domestic violence conducted by members of the NFL:
“As a father of two daughters, ending domestic violence has always been a top priority of mine. I’ve supported legislation against domestic abuse, held roundtables combating sexual assault on college campuses, and served as a staunch supporter in protecting women from violent acts by their loved ones. Addressing these issues transcends politics and is the main reason I’ve worked in a bipartisan manner to combat them. The prevalence of domestic abuse must not be tolerated in our society. 
“As one of the most watched enterprises in the world, the actions of the NFL and its members touch the lives of many people around the world. Because of this, I believe the NFL has a duty to serve as a steward in combating domestic violence. Furthermore, the head of the NFL, Commissioner Goodell must understand the scope and severity of domestic abuse acts. Judging from his actions, it’s time for the NFL to step its game up on this important matter.”   
A copy of the letter may be found below: 
September 10, 2014
Mr. Roger Goodell
Commissioner
National Football League
280 Park Avenue, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10017

Dear Commissioner Goodell:
As Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety and Insurance with jurisdiction over the National Football League (NFL), I write to you today in regard to the NFL’s actions in response to the acts of domestic violence conducted by former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice.
As a father of two daughters, protecting women from domestic violence has been, and will always be, one of my top priorities in Congress. The prevalence of abuse of women, whether physical, sexual, or psychological, is something that simply cannot be tolerated in our society. It is why I was proud to cosponsor and support the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, which was signed into law in 2013 to provide critical support and services for survivors of domestic violence and to hold abusers accountable. It is also why I have worked with members on both sides of the aisle to introduce the Campus Accountability and Safety Act to address the problem of sexual assaults on our nation’s college campuses.
According to the Department of Justice, it is estimated that there are 960,000 reported cases of domestic violence each year. Eighty-five percent of the victims are female and twenty-five percent of women experience domestic violence during their life.  It is a social epidemic that lives in the worst corners of society and public leaders in positions such as yours as Commissioner of the NFL must be vigilant when situations arise within your organization to be a leader to stop crimes against women.
After viewing both the shocking video and your interview on broadcast television, I am extremely concerned given the resources of the NFL that not one person within your organization knew anything about the existence of the elevator video before it surfaced on September 8th.  The security of the NFL is first rate and your qualified security professionals hold those positions due in part to their ability to obtain facts quickly and accurately through their expansive network.  
I fear the failure of the NFL to understand the scope and severity of this act of domestic violence has already led to significant damage for vulnerable members of society.  Moreover, I am highly disappointed the NFL’s reaction was only heightened once the public witnessed the elevator video.  By waiting to act until it was made public you effectively condoned the action of the perpetrator himself.  I cannot and will not tolerate that position by anybody let alone the National Football League.
This incident of domestic violence is not limited to just Ray Rice, rather I believe it is indicative of a larger pattern within the NFL. Currently, Greg Hardy, a defensive end for the Carolina Panthers is eligible to play for the team while his appeal on the conviction for assaulting his former girlfriend and threatening to kill her is pending.
In addition, according to press reports, since 2000, 85 of the 713 arrest of NFL players have been domestic violence accounts.  Until last month, the punishments typically were a suspension for one or two games, lacking consistency for the violation committed.  While the NFL did adopt new standards of punishment for domestic assault, I am now uncertain whether your role as the sole decider on punishment by the League provides the necessary transparency to properly hold those associated with the NFL accountable for acts of domestic violence.
That is why I am requesting that you provide a detailed response to the following:
1)      Please provide me a detailed explanation regarding your actions in response to the acts of domestic violence conducted by former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice.
2)      Please provide all information regarding whether anyone in the NFL knew about the elevator video, if so, when did they know, who did they tell and why did it not get to you. 
3)      Please provide your process for determining whether a player has violated NFL rules and is subject to suspension when arrested for domestic violence.
4)      Please outline your plans to address the harm your league has inflicted on survivors of domestic violence going forward.
The answers to these questions will be of great assistance as I continue to follow the actions of the NFL and your stewardship to hold your league to a standard that the American public expects.
Thank you and I appreciate your prompt attention to this matter. 
Sincerely,
                                                DEAN HELLER
  U.S. Senator
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=c4eb400a-fc47-447b-8bb1-76c266106c65,Heller Hosts Roundtable with Veterans to Discuss Legislation Addressing VA Disability Claims Backlog,2014-09-09,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after hosting a bipartisan roundtable with Co-Chair U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA)—attended by Veterans Service Organizations and Working Group members Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Pat Toomey (R-KS), and Joe Walsh (D-MT)—to discuss solutions needed to address reducing the backlog associated with VA disability claims:
“The need to reduce the VA’s disability claims backlog is more pressing than ever.  Just last week, I spent time with veterans in Pahrump, Nevada, to talk about the issues they face when dealing with the VA, and it came as no surprise to me that the VA backlog of disability claims remains a concern in Nevada, which has the worst VA Regional Office in the nation.”  
Heller continued, “Today, I met with Veterans Service Organizations to discuss ways in which the Working Group may provide solutions to the plight of America’s veterans who are facing delays in receiving their earned benefits. That’s why I introduced the 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act. As a Co-Chair of the bipartisan VA Backlog Working Group and as a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I am committed to reducing wait times, making the claims process more efficient, and ensuring no veteran is forced to wait months or years to be compensated for their injuries of war.”      
In March, the Working Group released the VA Backlog Working Group March 2014 Report in which the VA Backlog Working Group analyzes the many factors that contribute to the claims backlog. 
To accompany this report, the Working Group also introduced the 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act (S. 2091) aimed at providing a comprehensive solution. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=0c23ad48-c13b-412f-83a1-aec2d39396af,Heller: I remain committed to addressing the VAs disability claims backlog.,2014-09-09,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, United States Senator Dean Heller reaffirmed his commitment to address the VA’s disability claims backlog at a Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing held to assess the state of VA Health Care.
Remarks as prepared:
Thank you Chairman Sanders and Ranking Member Burr for holding this hearing.  Oversight by this Committee is critical at a time when the VA is in transition, and Nevada’s Veterans expect accountability. I know I, along with many Veterans in Nevada, have been pleased so far with Secretary McDonald.   In the many times we have met in my office, in this Committee, and in Reno just a few weeks ago, Secretary McDonald has shown he is committed to bringing new vision and reforms to the VA to better serve Nevada and our nation’s Veterans.
But the task ahead will be VA’s most difficult challenge after having failed our veterans in delivering quality health care and timely benefits.  The gross mismanagement, poor treatment of veterans, and long delays revealed in Phoenix and elsewhere has shocked Congress and our nation, and is a significant crisis to overcome.  
My hope is that the Secretary’s goals will not get lost in bureaucracy, and I expect consistent communication and honesty about what the VA needs from Congress to restore faith in the VA and achieve the best care possible for veterans.  
Just last week, I had the privilege to meet with Veterans from Pahrump, Nevada.   In the past 15 years, Pahrump has grown from a small town outside Las Vegas to a community of 36,000.  In Pahrump and all of Nye County, there are about 9,000 Veterans, which is why the community has fought for a larger VA clinic as more veterans flock to Pahrump. When visiting, I told them about the promise I made to you, Secretary, when we first met.  
Every time I see you, I will always bring up several key issues to Nevada Veterans: building the VA clinic in Pahrump, improving the Las Vegas VA hospital, and eliminating the disability claims backlog at the Reno VARO. Bob deserves credit here for quickly approving the Pahrump clinic as soon as he was confirmed, and I also appreciate that Director Duff and Associate Director Caron worked closely with my office to keep me informed. But there is still a lot of work to be done on this clinic--a contract must be awarded, the clinic must be constructed, and then it must be fully staffed.  
I'll be looking closely at each of these steps to determine if there are unnecessary bureaucratic barriers that delay projects like this and will hold the VA accountable. I also hope to see improvements at the Las Vegas VA hospital. There has been discussion about how to do this and I’d like to share a few key improvements that need to be made.
First, members of the Disabled American Veterans in Nevada want to improve transportation of rural veterans to the hospital. 
Right now, DAV has a volunteer transportation program, but they are not allowed to take veterans confined to a wheelchair or utilizing an oxygen tank.
There needs to be a greater partnership and coordination with the VA to expand the VA’s own transportation service for these disabled veterans in rural areas.
Secondly, appointment wait times at the Vegas hospital must be improved.  New patients in Vegas waited 25 days on average for specialty care appointments, and 16 days on average for mental health appointments. 
Director Duff has assured me her team is working to improve these wait times, and part of this improvement will be an enhanced scheduling system the VA is currently seeking. 
Every VA hospital needs modern processes and technology that will give directors the information they need to determine where resources are missing. Lastly, a point that the Secretary has brought up to me is the differences in regions and management structure among the three VA administrations: health care, benefits, and cemeteries.  
I look forward to working with him to improve the current structure and believe that reorganizing these administrations could be a positive step forward to enhance coordination and improve care at the VA. Finally, I remain committed to addressing the VA’s disability claims backlog.  For over a year now, Nevada is still the worst in the nation with claims being completed in 334 days on average.
As Co-Chair of the VA Backlog Working Group, I will be hosting a Roundtable later today along with Senator Casey to discuss the need to overhaul the outdated claims processing system.
I believe there is no better time to reform the claims process as the VA transforms under Secretary McDonald’s leadership, and the Working Group’s legislation is a strong platform for some of the changes that need to be made.
I look forward to hearing more about the changes and progress with improving care and benefits at the VA, and thank the Secretary and Inspector General Griffin for being here.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=db4f4ffa-0046-4a4d-8c68-d2106ac9b15f,Heller Statement on Tesla Motors,2014-09-04,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement today after the recent announcement Tesla Motors will be investing up to $5 billion in Nevada for a “gigafactory” projected to employ as many as 6,500 workers by 2020.
“This is wonderful news for Nevada. Our state has struggled to come out of the great recession for some time, but under the leadership of Governor Sandoval, there is light at the end of the tunnel. 
“This announcement shows Governor Sandoval’s policy of creating a low-tax environment to attract cutting-edge industry leaders, like Tesla, is working for our state. 
“I applaud his leadership and look forward to working with the Governor to create more jobs for families in the Battle Born state.”said Senator Dean Heller.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140830010036/https://heck.house.gov/press-release/va-embraces-heck-proposal-part-new-national-medical-professional-recruitment-effort,VA Embraces Heck Proposal as Part of New National Medical Professional Recruitment Effort,2014-08-29,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"HENDERSON -- As part of ongoing efforts to improve care and customer service at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), new VA Secretary Robert McDonald today announced the start of a national recruitment effort to bring ""the best and brightest health professionals to the Department of Veterans Affairs."" One of the policies included in this effort is based on legislation introduced by Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03). 
According to the VA's press release, one step in the new national recruitment effort is ""Improving the credentialing process for VA and DoD health care providers which will involve sharing credentials to speed up the process.""
Rep. Heck's legislation, entitled the VA Credentialing and Privileging Improvement Act, would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to accept the credentials of Department of Defense physicians and expedite the granting of clinical privileges. It was introduced in conjunction with passage of H.R. 3230, the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014, legislation that makes major reforms to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Upon hearing of the adoption of this policy, Rep. Heck said, “I’m pleased Secretary McDonald has included reforms to the credentialing process in this new recruitment effort. It demonstrates the solutions-based approach he is bringing to the VA. This policy will bridge the access to care gap for our veterans while maintaining the high quality of care they deserve.”
Rep. Heck mentioned his pending legislation to Secretary McDonald during his recent trip to Las Vegas.  
The VA's press release on the new national recruitment effort is pasted below.
###
Secretary McDonald Announces the Start of a National Recruitment Effort to Bring Needed Medical Professionals to VA
Recruitment of Additional Medical Providers Will Increase Access to Care 
WASHINGTON – Speaking to a crowd of medical students, residents and faculty at Duke University’s School of Medicine, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert A. McDonald today launched a recruiting initiative aimed at bringing the best and brightest health professionals to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) which will ultimately expand access to care for Veterans.
“At VA, we have the most inspiring mission and the greatest clients of any healthcare system in the world. That’s exactly the message I’m going to share as I speak with health care professionals and students about the value of serving at VA,” said Secretary McDonald. “We have taken action to get Veterans off of wait lists and into clinics in the short-term, but in the long-term, in order to provide timely access to care, we need to build capacity by hiring more clinicians. We need the best doctors and nurses serving Veterans, and that is why I will be out recruiting, leveraging the existing relationships and affiliations VA has with many academic institutions, and talking directly to medical professionals about joining us to fulfill our exceptional mission of caring for those who ‘shall have borne the battle.’”
VA is taking multiple steps to expand capacity at our facilities, to provide Veterans the timely care they have earned and deserve.  In addition to Secretary McDonald’s direct messages to clinicians and clinicians-in-training, these steps include:
* Collaborating on a new nursing academic partnership (VA Nursing Academic Partnerships or VANAP) focused on psychiatric and mental health care to build stronger, mutually beneficial relationships between nursing schools and VA facilities.
* Partnering with the Department of Defense Health Affairs, Army, Navy, and Air Force to improve recruitment of recently or soon to be discharged health care professionals. VHA is already taking advantage of known separations of military health care workers.
Expanding of a pilot program to bring combat medics and corpsmen in to VA facilities as clinicians
* Improving the credentialing process for VA and DoD health care providers which will involve sharing credentials to speed up the process.
* Expanding of the loan repayment program, as included in the recently passed Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act
Considering options to revise pay tables to offer more competitive salaries for VA providers, in comparison to their academic and private practice colleagues. 
These actions build on existing recruitment tools, including partnerships between local facilities and academic institutions, loan repayment programs, and scholarship programs.
“In order to recruit and retain the highest quality medical professionals, VA needs to be competitive with other healthcare systems, and ultimately that is how we provide the best care to our Veteran patients,” said Interim Under Secretary for Health Carolyn M. Clancy.
To learn more about how to work in VA health care and serve our Nation’s Veterans, please visit: www.vacareers.va.gov.
#   #   #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=b0ef7778-4c68-493f-8153-c6b34c24ba12,Heller Announces New Staff Change in Washington Office,2014-08-27,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington D.C.) --  U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement on the promotion of Neal Patel after the departure of Communications Director, Chandler Smith. Smith served in a communications role for Heller since his first days in the Senate. 
“Over the past three years, Chandler has served the people of Nevada with great respect, determination, and loyalty. I relied on her knowledge both in Nevada and Washington and her ability to accomplish many goals we set forth to achieve together. She was an asset to my office and will be missed tremendously. I wish her success in the future and know she will always remain a valued member of Team Heller,” said Senator Heller.  
Heller continued, “I would like to welcome Neal Patel as my new Communications Director and Counsel. Neal joined the office earlier this summer and has worked on Capitol Hill for several years and understands the demands inherent in this role. Neal’s addition brings experience and value to our team.”   
Previously, Neal served in the same capacity for Congressman Charles Boustany (R-LA), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Oversight Subcommittee. In this role, Neal shaped and contributed toward Congressman Boustany’s stances on key issues affecting the energy industry, trade policy, and tax reform. 
Neal is a native of Nichols, South Carolina. He graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill with a degree in Business Administration. He attained his law degree from the Charleston School of Law and practiced law for two years before working on Capitol Hill.
 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140822012030/http://heck.house.gov/event/first-annual-congressional-college-fair,First Annual Congressional College Fair,2014-08-19,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Clack County School District (CCSD) is the fifth largest school district in the United States serving over three hundred thousand of Nevada’s future leaders. With such a large and diverse student population, it is imperative that community and government leaders recognize the critical importance of providing students and their families with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed after high school graduation.
That is why I am joining with CCSD Superintendent Pat Skorkowsky to host the First Annual Congressional College Fair.  With assistance from local universities, colleges, technical institutions and student groups, it is our goal to provide an all-encompassing look at what southern Nevada’s high school students and their families can expect and achieve from a post-secondary education.
Below you will find a list of schools attending this year's event. If you have any questions, please contact Andrew Turcaz in my Nevada office at 702-387-4941.
Schools
	University of Nevada, Las Vegas  
	University of Nevada, Reno  
	College of Southern Nevada  
	Nevada State College  
	Touro University  
	Le Cordon Bleu  
	Roseman University  
	ITT Tech  
	The Art Institutes  
	Euphoria Institute of Beauty Arts & Sciences  
	William S. Boyd School of Law  
	Southern Utah University  
	National University  
	Sierra Nevada college

	Service Academies
	West Point  
	Annapolis  
	Air Force  
	Coast Guard

	Student Organizations
	CSUN (UNLV student Gvt)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=ed200184-5bb4-4685-9bf7-538c373ddb8c,Heller Welcomes VA Approval for Veterans Clinic in Pahrump,2014-08-05,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington D.C.) -- U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) today received confirmation that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has approved a proposal to construct a veterans’ clinic in Pahrump. The Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) will help address concerns about the capacity of existing facilities in the area and the growing demand among the veteran population in Pahrump.
“I am thrilled to report that the Department of Veterans Affairs has approved a clinic in Pahrump after veterans in the area have been waiting for more than two years. Pahrump veterans have fought for too long for this clinic to be built, and with this good news, veterans will soon have better access to the care they deserve. I will continue to press the VA for this project to move forward swiftly,” said Senator Dean Heller.
Senator Heller’s office was notified of the clinic’s approval this afternoon. Most recently, Senator Heller asked then-Acting Secretary of Veterans Affairs Sloan Gibson for a specific timeline regarding approval of this clinic.  You can watch that video here. Heller also raised this issue in a one-on-one meeting with Secretary McDonald prior to his confirmation. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140808011717/http://heck.house.gov/press-release/heck-issues-statements-house-border-votes,Heck Issues Statements on House Border Votes,2014-08-03,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) tonight released the following statements after House votes to address the crisis at the southern border.
On H.R. 5230, making supplemental appropriations to address the crisis at the southern border:
“This bill provides the funding and policy changes necessary to humanely address the crisis at our southern border.” – Congressman Joe Heck
 
On H.R. 5272, to prohibit certain actions with respect to deferred action for aliens not lawfully present in the United States:
“While I do not agree with the President going around Congress to implement DACA, I cannot in good conscience vote to close the door on those individuals who have been given the opportunity to make a life for themselves in the only country they have ever known.” – Congressman Joe Heck 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-host-veterans-town-hall-lovelock,Amodei to host veterans' town hall in Lovelock,2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

RENO, Nev.– Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today announced he will hold a veterans' town hall meeting in Lovelock on Wednesday, August 13, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, at the Pershing County Community Center, 820 6th Street.

""This veterans’ town hall in Lovelock continues our efforts across Northern Nevada to meet with and listen to veterans regarding the issues and challenges they face,"" said Amodei. ""In addition to thanking them for their service, this is an opportunity to connect them with the assistance my office can provide.""

“I also want to thank Steve Smith and the American Legion Post 6 Lovelock for their help to make this event possible and for getting the word out,” said Amodei.

Representatives from federal agencies serving veterans will also participate. Please contact Tracy Soliday at (775) 686-5760 with any questions.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:06Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-supplemental-funding-bill-southwest-border,Amodei statement on supplemental funding bill for Southwest border,2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following his vote in favor of the supplemental funding bill for Southwest border security, Congressman Mark Amodei released the following statement:

“This vote is about showing compassion to juveniles and helping victimized children. This is about enabling state governors with international borders to secure the sovereignty of their states. And this is about doing what is best for America from immigration and fiscal policy standpoints.

“I do not expect it to make any difference in terms of the Senate Majority engaging Republicans in either chamber. And I do not expect that the White House will break tradition to show any interest in what is contained in this bill.

“At a time when the super majority of Americans are indignant with the administration and Congress’ inability to discuss and solve the legitimate federal issues of the day, the House has gone through the challenging process of attempting to find consensus to move legislation to the Senate.

“I look forward to further discussing with all Nevadans in the coming four weeks what is in the bill and what is not in the bill, as well as the history of border security and immigration policy.

“Regrettably, both parties have achieved a major failure during this administration to deal with immigration and the border in a meaningful way. I will continue to be open and transparent regarding solutions and my thoughts on the issue.

“I’m afraid that until both sides can get over the playground dramatics of screaming amnesty on one hand and xenophobia on the other, that I will need to continue to apologize to all Nevadans for the inability to move this debate from partisan shouting match to thoughtful discussion in Washington, D.C.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:43:06Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140802070831/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=438,Amodei to host veterans' town hall in Lovelock,2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                            Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155  RENO, Nev.– Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today announced he will hold a veterans' town hall meeting in Lovelock on Wednesday, August 13, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, at the Pershing County Community Center, 820 6th Street.  ""This veterans’ town hall in Lovelock continues our efforts across Northern Nevada to meet with and listen to veterans regarding the issues and challenges they face,"" said Amodei. ""In addition to thanking them for their service, this is an opportunity to connect them with the assistance my office can provide.""  “I also want to thank Steve Smith and the American Legion Post 6 Lovelock for their help to make this event possible and for getting the word out,” said Amodei.  Representatives from federal agencies serving veterans will also participate. Please contact Tracy Soliday at (775) 686-5760 with any questions.  # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140808115317/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=439,Amodei statement on supplemental funding bill for Southwest border,2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE              Contact:        Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155  WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following his vote in favor of the supplemental funding bill for Southwest border security, Congressman Mark Amodei released the following statement:  “This vote is about showing compassion to juveniles and helping victimized children. This is about enabling state governors with international borders to secure the sovereignty of their states. And this is about doing what is best for America from immigration and fiscal policy standpoints.  “I do not expect it to make any difference in terms of the Senate Majority engaging Republicans in either chamber. And I do not expect that the White House will break tradition to show any interest in what is contained in this bill.  “At a time when the super majority of Americans are indignant with the administration and Congress’ inability to discuss and solve the legitimate federal issues of the day, the House has gone through the challenging process of attempting to find consensus to move legislation to the Senate.  “I look forward to further discussing with all Nevadans in the coming four weeks what is in the bill and what is not in the bill, as well as the history of border security and immigration policy.  “Regrettably, both parties have achieved a major failure during this administration to deal with immigration and the border in a meaningful way. I will continue to be open and transparent regarding solutions and my thoughts on the issue.  “I’m afraid that until both sides can get over the playground dramatics of screaming amnesty on one hand and xenophobia on the other, that I will need to continue to apologize to all Nevadans for the inability to move this debate from partisan shouting match to thoughtful discussion in Washington, D.C.”  # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=80e23da6-b85e-430a-a0c5-63b01a6a5ed0,Heller Introduces Legislation Saving Public Lands from Wildfires,2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington D.C.) --  U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) recently introduced the Emergency Fuel Reduction Act of 2014, S. 2768, with the support of Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Jeff Flake (R-AZ), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), and James Risch (R-ID). The legislation expedites the review process for wildfire prevention projects when risks on public lands pose a threat to critical infrastructure, private land holders, and endangered species habitats.
 “Over the past five years, the entire West has suffered from record wildfire damage. This legislation expedites the review process for wildfire prevention projects when wildfire risks pose a threat to the millions of acres of lands in the west under management by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service. Expediting the review process will protect local water resources, address a major habitat threat to the greater sage-grouse, and spur grazing and timber related economic development. Restoring active management to our public lands remains a top priority of mine,” said Senator Heller.
 Attached is a copy of Senator Heller’s legislation.
 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1070408a-ab7b-4f94-952f-f7b8e96b9aee,Senate Passes VA Conference Bill to Help Get VA Back on Track,2014-07-31,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington D.C.) -- Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) voted in favor of H.R. 3230, the Veterans Conference Report.  This legislation includes reforms that will allow the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to improve its healthcare services. 
Following the vote, Senator Heller said, “This bill is a good start to address problems with appointment wait times and VA scheduling practices, and to improve accountability and overall quality of care provided at VA’s medical facilities. However, our work is not done.  Congress must not stop pressing the VA for better care nor can this body turn a blind eye to the veterans who are still waiting for their disability benefits claims to be processed.  
“Thank you to my colleagues, Senators Sanders, McCain, and Burr, for their work on the Conference Report, as well as House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Miller and the rest of the Conference members for reaching an agreement. I’m also grateful to Senator Booker for his partnership to extend a program for veterans suffering from traumatic brain injuries, and to Senator Merkley for his work on our provision to help Gold Star spouses access education benefits.” 
Two bipartisan provisions co-authored by Senator Heller were included in the VA conference legislation: 
 
The Spouses of Heroes Education Act. This legislation provides education benefits to spouses of service members who died in the line of duty. Senators Heller and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced this measure on May 23, 2013. For more information about that bill, please click here.
The Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (AL-TBI) Extension Act. This legislation authorizes the continuation of a Veterans Affairs program that provides intensive care and rehabilitation to veterans with severe brain injuries. Senators Heller and Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced this legislation on July 16, 2014. For more information about that bill, please click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=4f67119e-f10e-4c76-9ee8-d367ec290f60,Heller Ensures TBI Program for Vets Included in Conference Committee Legislation,2014-07-31,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, United States Senator Dean Heller spoke on the Senate floor about a very critical provision in the Conference Committee’s legislation that he, along with Senator Cory Booker, took a lead on addressing: extension of the Assisted Living Program for Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury. This program operates in two locations in Nevada and serves wounded warriors who are trying to restore their quality of life.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/unanimous-vote-sets-northern-nevada-lands-bills-path-final-house-passage,Unanimous vote sets Northern Nevada lands bills on path to final House passage,2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Mark E. Amodei,A000369,amodei.house.gov,amodei,https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta (Amodei) 202-225-6155

WASHINGTON, D.C. –A historic package of Northern Nevada lands bills – six introduced by Rep. Mark Amodei (NV-2) and one by Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4) -- today passed the House Natural Resources Committee by unanimous consent. The bipartisan support clears the way for the legislation to be brought to the House floor in September as a non-controversial suspension bill.

The compromise agreement was made possible after adjustments to the legislation were made to a version passed in January.

“These are community-driven lands measures that will create jobs without cost to the federal taxpayer,” said Amodei. “For the second time in two years, the eyes of Northern Nevada turn to the Senate.”

“Working to create jobs and strengthen the middle class has been my number one priority in Congress,” said Horsford. “Today, Democrats and Republicans unanimously moved a legislative package forward that will grow Nevada’s economy. Thanks to Congressman Mark Amodei and others, we have been able to find common sense bipartisan solutions that bridge the partisan divide. When we work together and put Nevada first, political posturing fades into the background, and our constituents benefit.”

The Northern Nevada Land Conservation and Economic Development Act includes the following measures:

H.R. 433, the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act

H.R. 696, the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act

H.R. 1167, the Restoring Storey County Act

H.R. 1168, the Carlin Economic Self-Determination Act

H.R. 1169, the Naval Air Station Fallon Housing and Safety Development Act

H.R. 1170, the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act

H.R. 2455, the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:42:41Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140801022724/http://heck.house.gov/press-release/heck-backs-va-reform-legislation,Heck Backs VA Reform Legislation,2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Announces introduction of bill to speed VA privileging of DoD doctors
WASHINGTON - Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today supported House passage of H.R. 3230, the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014, legislation that makes major reforms to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The bill provides $17 billion in funding to improve access and quality of care for veterans, expand the VA's capacity to provide care to veterans, bring needed accountability to the VA, and improve education benefits for veterans and their dependents. The bill passed the House by a vote of 420 to 5.
""This bill is an important first step towards bringing needed accountability to the VA and improving access to care for our veterans,"" Rep. Heck said. ""I'm glad House and Senate leaders were able to agree to this compromise and put the needs of our veterans first, but our work is far from done. I will continue working with local veterans, veterans service organizations, and VA officials, as well as my colleagues in Congress, to make sure that the House of Representatives and the VA are both responsive to the needs of those men and women who have made great sacrifices for our country.”
In addition, Rep. Heck will introduce legislation tomorrow that would improve access to care for veterans by requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to accept the credentials of Department of Defense physicians and expedite the granting of clinical privileges. In some cases, DoD-credentialed doctors wishing to treat patients at a VA facility have to wait months to be granted the proper clinical privileges needed to practice. The VA Credentialing and Privileging Improvement Act would streamline this process and allow more doctors to practice within the VA, thus improving access to care for veterans.
""The policies in the VA reform bill will take some time to implement,"" Rep. Heck said. ""My bill would help bridge the access to care gap at VA facilities by immediately allowing DoD physicians to practice within the VA system. More doctors will shorten wait times for our veterans while maintaining the quality of care they deserve."" 
Related: Las Vegas Review-Journal editorial says Rep. Heck's proposal to streamline privileging process ""would be extremely helpful for Las Vegas veterans."" Read more here. 
###
Congressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140801124915/http://amodei.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=437,Unanimous vote sets Northern Nevada lands bills on path to final House passage,2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Mark Amodei,A000369,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE     Contact:               Brian Baluta (Amodei) 202-225-6155  WASHINGTON, D.C. –A historic package of Northern Nevada lands bills – six introduced by Rep. Mark Amodei (NV-2) and one by Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4) -- today passed the House Natural Resources Committee by unanimous consent. The bipartisan support clears the way for the legislation to be brought to the House floor in September as a non-controversial suspension bill.  The compromise agreement was made possible after adjustments to the legislation were made to a version passed in January.     “These are community-driven lands measures that will create jobs without cost to the federal taxpayer,” said Amodei. “For the second time in two years, the eyes of Northern Nevada turn to the Senate.”    “Working to create jobs and strengthen the middle class has been my number one priority in Congress,” said Horsford. “Today, Democrats and Republicans unanimously moved a legislative package forward that will grow Nevada’s economy. Thanks to Congressman Mark Amodei and others, we have been able to find common sense bipartisan solutions that bridge the partisan divide. When we work together and put Nevada first, political posturing fades into the background, and our constituents benefit.”  The Northern Nevada Land Conservation and Economic Development Act includes the following measures:  H.R. 433, the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement Act  H.R. 696, the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act  H.R. 1167, the Restoring Storey County Act  H.R. 1168, the Carlin Economic Self-Determination Act  H.R. 1169, the Naval Air Station Fallon Housing and Safety Development Act  H.R. 1170, the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act  H.R. 2455, the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act  # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=88c7a94c-f20e-4717-9e66-09676f318e9b,Heller Welcomes House Committee Passage of Nevada Lands Bills,2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington D.C.) -- Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) welcomed passage of the Northern Nevada Land Conservation and Economic Development Act by the House Committee on Natural Resources. This legislation, which was championed by Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2), contains a number of measures that are important to Nevada, including job-creating measures such as the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act.
“I would like to commend my friend Congressman Amodei for his hard work in negotiating a compromise between the Nevada House delegation and the Republican and Democrat Natural Resources Committee leadership.  In the Nevada delegation, we have a strong tradition of working cooperatively and in a bipartisan manner on public lands bills, and Congressman Amodei’s work should be recognized. 
“Today’s unanimous vote in the House Natural Resources Committee is an important step in the process, building bipartisan momentum for this proposal.  I will continue to work diligently with Senator Reid and the leadership of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee to send this proposal to the President for signature before the end of the 113thCongress,” said Senator Dean Heller.  
Senator Heller, along with Senator Reid, introduced the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act in the Senate. That legislation passed the Energy and Natural Resources Committee on September 10, 2013.  On June 23, 2014, the Pine Forest Range Recreation Enhancement also passed out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.
Senator Heller, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, has also introduced counterparts to the Fernley Economic Self-Determination Act, the Elko Motocross and Tribal Conveyance Act and legislation to fix Storey County’s land issue, the Nevada Mining Townsite Conveyance Act.
Senator Heller supports all seven titles of Northern Nevada Public Lands package and will work hard to see them enacted before the end of this Congress.   
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=b7bd2522-9e82-4c3a-ae94-a0a146bfb155,Heller Pushes Forward Two Land Initiatives in Committee,2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke at the Senate Public Lands, Forests, and Mining Subcommittee hearing in favor of two pieces of legislation seeking to address two difficult public lands issues arising in Nevada: the Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act (S. 1049) and the Pinyon-Juniper Related Projects Implementation Act (S. 1640).
Remarks as prepared:
 Thank you Chairman Manchin and Ranking Member Barrasso for holding this important hearing today, and for including two of my bills that seek to address two difficult public lands issues that have come up in Nevada. 
The first of the two bills, the Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act would solve a long-standing public safety issue in our National Parks, Forests and Public Lands.  My friend and colleague in the House, Congressman Joe Heck, and I introduced this legislation in response to the tragic stories of Mr. Keith Goldberg and Air Force Staff Sargent Antonio Tucker. 
Both of these individuals were missing for over a year before volunteer, Good Samaritan rescue teams received government authorization to begin searching.  This bipartisan common-sense legislation would allow for expedited access to public lands for Good Samaritan search and recovery organizations so that they may conduct searches for missing persons.
I would personally like to thank Keith Goldberg’s Sister Jodi and her husband Paul Thompson and Keith’s brother Jeff Goldberg who have joined us here today and support for their tireless work and advocacy on behalf of this legislation. This family’s courage and resilience is truly inspiring, I am grateful for the sacrifices they have made to advance our bill.
Their brother Keith disappeared on January 31, 2012. He was believed to be the victim of murder, but the police, operating on thin resources, were unable to continue the search for his body in the Las Vegas desert. His family went without closure for far too long.
When new evidence pointed towards the Lake Mead recreational area, Mr. Goldberg’s sister, Jodi, reached out to a private search and rescue team to look for her brother. All that prevented the rescue team from discovering Mr. Goldberg’s body was the bureaucratic red tape of the National Park Service, which refused to allow them to search the area without a permit and a $1 million insurance policy.
After the family spent six months finding an insurer and raising the money to buy the policy, the search team found Keith Goldberg in two hours.
Staff Sergeant Antonio Tucker’s family suffered a similarly frustrating ordeal. Staff Sergeant Tucker was stationed at Creech Air Force Base, when he went missing on June 23, 2012. He was believed drowned. A Good Samaritan search team offered to look for Staff Sergeant Tucker but was blocked by the Park Service, which required insurance and a special search permit. These hurdles were finally overcome about a year later. The team, possessing superior equipment to government divers, found the body within two days.
No family should have to go through what the Goldberg and Tucker families have had to endure by waiting a year to recover a loved one. Our legislation will prevent such needless red tape from interfering in the search and recovery of lost persons. It will provide qualified and trained search and rescue groups with expedited access to park service land if they sign a liability waiver. It requires the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a process to expedite access to Federal lands for Good Samaritan search-and-recovery operations. And it will give the Secretary the authority to develop long-term partnerships with search and recovery organizations to help facilitate and expedite such Good Samaritan missions for missing persons.
The Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act has the ability to conserve government resources, to provide families closure, and even to save lives. The House version of this bill passed the House of Representatives unanimously last year.  I would also like to thank Senators Warner, Tester, Hatch, and Chambliss for cosponsoring my bill.  I am confident it can garner similar overwhelming support in the Senate if given the opportunity.
My second bill before this committee, the Pinyon-Juniper Related Projects Implementation Act is a bipartisan bill, requested by local government officials from Lincoln County, Nevada. 
The bill will amend existing law to provide local officials more flexibility to carry out conservation and land-use goals, such as infrastructure development, wildlife conservation, and wildfire prevention. 
Because nearly 85 percent of the land in Nevada is administered by the federal government, it presents our local and state governments with many unique challenges.  In order to accommodate the needs to of Lincoln County, Congress passed the Lincoln County Land Act in 2000 and the Lincoln County Conservation, Recreation and Development Act in 2004.  
It has become apparent that the current authorities of those existing laws do not serve to effectively facilitate the successful implementation of these important environmental protections and land use initiatives. To address these limitations, I introduced this bill to makes minor improvements to those laws, by improving the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM’s) administration of watersheds and wildlife habitat, and to enhance economic development in Lincoln County.   Nevada Congressmen Mark Amodei and Steve Horsford introduced nearly identical bipartisan legislation in the House as well. 
Given that this bill will spur economic growth and create much needed jobs, in a county faced with an unemployment rate of 10 percent, I look forward to working with the members of this committee to move this important legislation forward.
Once again, I would like to express my appreciation to the Committee of holding this important hearing today.  I encourage our full Committee Chair to move both of these important bills forward in our next business meeting.
 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=4be0a4dd-beec-4244-8caa-0cc12d039c1c,U.S. Sens. Heller and Bookers Legislation to Extend Care for Vets with Traumatic Brain Injuries Included in VA Bill,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Dean Heller (R-NV) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued a statement today commending the bi-partisan package of landmark reforms to the Dept. of Veterans Affairs hospital facilities schedule to be voted on this week. 
The compromise includes legislation sponsored by the senators to prevent veterans suffering from severe traumatic brain injuries from being kicked out of rehabilitative centers treating them.
“This program allows veterans suffering from traumatic brain injuries to receive therapy for movement, memory, and speech loss, so that ultimately these men and women can reintegrate into society,” Sen. Heller said. “These injuries are an all-too-common result of modern warfare, and this program is already helping Nevada veterans. I am so glad that this bipartisan package reauthorizes this pilot program for three additional years so that veterans can continue to access these important services.”
“Losing access to this program would be a devastating and unjust setback to veterans with severe brain injuries,” Sen. Booker said. “I’m encouraged this crucial proposal will get a full floor vote and urge my colleagues to not leave Washington without making sure these veterans are taken care of.”
Since 2001, more than 265,000 U.S. troops suffered traumatic brain injuries, according to the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center. The Assisted Living Pilot Program for Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (AL-TBI) Extension Act authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs to extend a program that provides intensive care and rehabilitation to veterans with severe brain injuries.
AL-TBI began as a five-year pilot program in 2008, but will expire this year if Congress does not act. This model of care allows veterans facing similar challenges to live together while receiving around the clock care. The results so far have been impressive, helping to rehabilitate veterans from severe injuries that are notoriously difficult to treat.
However, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has stopped placing any new veterans into the program. If the program is allowed to expire, the VA will have to discharge veterans in the program, including several veterans housed in several New Jersey facilities.
Since Sens. Booker and Heller introduced the legislation, Sens. Landrieu (D-LA), McCain (R-AZ), Pryor (D-AK), and Baldwin (D-Wis) have joined as co-sponsors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=8f32ed11-80c1-4725-9eba-0db822864280,Senate Confirms McDonald as VA Secretary,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – After the United States Senate voted to confirm Robert McDonald as Secretary for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement:
""I am pleased that the Senate moved quickly to confirm Robert McDonald so he can begin to tackle the many challenges facing the VA. I had an opportunity to meet with Mr. McDonald and question him in Committee, and during those conversations, Mr. McDonald committed to improving veterans’ access to care as well as improving the disability benefits claims backlog system. As a member of the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I look forward to working with Mr. McDonald and holding him accountable to those promises so that Nevada veterans receive the benefits they earned and deserve.”
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=dde88153-ba98-457e-acf3-6c9c7841d811,Sens. Heller and Frankens Measures to Strengthen Surveillance Transparency Included in NSA Reform Bill,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Today, U.S. Sens. Dean Heller (R-NV) and Al Franken (D-MN) announced their measures to increase transparency over government surveillance programs were included in the USA FREEDOM Act, a key NSA reform bill introduced today in the Senate by Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT). 
Because of Sens. Heller’s and Franken’s efforts, the USA FREEDOM Act will help give the American people the information they need to make up their own minds about the nation’s surveillance programs.
The Senators’ transparency provisions force the government to release the number of people who have had their communications information collected under these surveillance programs, and the number of those people who were likely Americans. And they would also give American companies greater flexibility to tell their customers approximately how many of them were caught up in government surveillance requests. Combined, these provisions will give Americans a way to verify for themselves that bulk collection is in fact over. 
Said Sen. Heller, “The government has grossly overreached with its surveillance practices, and as a result, Americans’ distrust of their own government continues to grow. Congress can take immediate steps to fix that by increasing transparency and improving reporting practices.  I’m extremely pleased that my colleagues have been willing to work with me and Senator Franken to include our provisions in the latest draft. More must be done, and the USA Freedom Act is a comprehensive approach that would end bulk data collection practices and help restore privacy rights to our nation’s citizens. I hope that the Senate can move swiftly to vote on this bill.” 
“Americans understand that we need to give due weight to privacy, on the one hand, and national security, on the other,” said Sen. Franken. “But when they lack even a rough sense of the scope of the government’s surveillance programs, they have no way to know if the government is getting that balance right. There needs to be more transparency. Our provisions will let the American people get the information they need to hold their government accountable.” 
Sens. Heller and Franken introduced the Surveillance Transparency Act in 2013 to expand and improve ongoing government reporting about programs under the PATRIOT Act and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act that have been the subject of controversy. You can read more about it here. 
While both the House and Senate versions of the USA FREEDOM Act included transparency provisions modeled after Surveillance Transparency Act, many of these provisions were dropped in the run-up to the House’s passage of the bill. The Senators successfully fought to get them back into the final Senate bill.
Sen. Heller is an original cosponsor of the USA FREEDOM Act. He also testified at a hearing of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law on behalf of the Surveillance Transparency Act of 2013.
Sen. Franken, Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law, is a strong advocate of increased transparency in government surveillance programs. In 2011 and 2012, he cosponsored legislation to ensure greater oversight and transparency around federal surveillance programs. When these measures did not pass, Sen. Franken voted against reauthorizing key NSA surveillance programs created under the PATRIOT Act and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Amendments Act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=e53c0912-2842-44cc-b0ab-f4bc5a0a3b0e,Heller: Data Collection Practices Are Massive Intrusion of Privacy,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) – Recently, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke on the Senate floor in support of legislation amending the USA Freedom Act. Reflecting bipartisan and bicameral changes, the legislation ends bulk data collection practices currently used by the government. The legislation goes one step further by clearly outlining to America’s intelligence officials specific rules to follow so that they can keep the operational capabilities necessary to protect the United States from a terror attack without infringing upon the Fourth Amendment rights of American citizens.
Remarks as prepared: 
Mr. President,
Today, my colleague, Senator Leahy, the Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, introduced legislation that would amend the USA FREEDOM ACT.  This new legislation reflects a bicameral and bipartisan compromise that ends the bulk data collection practices currently used. It also gives our intelligence officials specific rules to follow so that they can keep the operational capabilities necessary to protect the United States from a terror attack without compromising the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution.
I would like to thank Senator Leahy for his work, and am grateful for his partnership. This important step is necessary for restoring Americans’ privacy rights, which were taken by a well-intended, but overreaching federal government, in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. 
Mr. President, the expanded authority given to the National Security Agency through executive action and the PATRIOT ACT was intended to prevent another attack on America. While I was not a member of Congress on 9/11, I shared the horror all Nevadans felt watching the murder of thousands of innocent Americans, and the profound sadness as buildings in New York City and Washington D.C. sat smoldering.
I understand as well as anyone here the reasoning behind the actions our nation’s leaders took to ensure that another attack on America never materialized, and why our leaders felt that no limits should be imposed, no matter what the cost. Americans had to be protected against another attack.  
Viewing the situation from that lens, it is easy to understand how the Fourth Amendment was brushed aside as the United States Senate expanded law enforcement surveillance capabilities with just one dissenting vote.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation then used Section 215 of the PATRIOT ACT to expand the scope of surveillance far beyond even what some of the authors believed they were authorizing.
The FBI argued that Section 215 provided authority to collect phone data of law-abiding citizens without their knowledge.  Specifically, they could use the “business records” provision to force phone companies to turn over millions of telephone calls when there is reasonable ground or relevance to believe that the information sought is relevant to an authorized investigation of international terrorism.
As a result we now have a bulk collection program in existence where telephone companies hand over millions of records to the NSA as part of a massive pre-collection database.
As someone who voted against the PATRIOT Act multiple times, I believe such data collection practices are a massive intrusion of privacy, which is why I partnered with the senior Senator from Vermont to end these programs.  Our legislation tightens the definition of “specific selection term” for Section 215 of the PATRIOT ACT and FISA pen register trap and trace devices so that the information requested is limited to specifically identifying a person, account, address, or personal device. 
With this legislation, bulk collection will be eliminated and the records will stay with the telephone companies.  The massive information grabs from the federal government based on geography or email service will no longer be permissible. And of the information that is collected, the legislation imposes new restrictions on the use and retention of it. 
These reforms will help shift the balance of privacy away from the federal government and back to American citizens.
I am proud that this bill also includes the Franken Heller Surveillance Transparency Act of 2013.  I was pleased to join Senator Franken on this legislation because, at the very least, Americans deserve to know the number of people whose information is housed by the NSA. For the first time in American history, the government is forced to disclose to the American people roughly how many of them have had their communications collected.
Our provisions call for reports by the Director of National Intelligence detailing the requests for information authorized under the PATRIOT ACT and the FISA Amendments Act.
The reports would specify the total number of people whose information has been collected under these programs and how many people living in the United States (or “likely Americans”) have had their information collected. They also would permit the Intelligence Community to report on how many Americans actually had their information looked at by the NSA or any other intelligence agencies.
Furthermore, these provisions would allow telephone and Internet companies to tell consumers basic information regarding the FISA Court orders they receive and the number of users whose information is turned over.
The principles outlined in this bill to increase transparency for Americans and private companies would clear up a tremendous amount of confusion that exists with these programs.
And our private companies need the added disclosure. The Information Technology & Innovation Foundation estimates that American cloud computing companies could lose 22 to 35 billion dollars in the next three years because of concerns about their involvement with surveillance programs. The analytics firm Forrester puts potential losses much higher, at $180 billion.
I want to be clear; I share the concerns of all Americans that we must protect ourselves against threats to the homeland.  I believe that terrorism is very real and the United States is the target of those looking to undermine the freedoms we hold as the core of our national identity.
And if the bulk collection programs in existence were bearing so much information to protect the Homeland, it would change my opinion on the need for the USA FREEDOM ACT.
However, the bulk collection program has simply not provided the tangible results that justify a privacy intrusion of this level. We know this because on October 2, 2013, the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Senator Leahy, asked NSA Director Keith Alexander the following question, and I quote:
At our last hearing, the deputy director, Mr. Ingliss stated that there’s only really one example of a case where, but for the use of Section 215, both phone records collection, terrorist activity was stopped. Was Mr. Ingliss’ right?
To which Director Alexander responded:
He’s right. I believe he said two, Chairman.
Mr. President, Congress has authorized the collection of millions of law abiding citizens’ telephone metadata for years and it has only solved two ongoing FBI investigations.
Of those two investigations, the NSA has publicly identified one. And in fact, that case could have easily been handled by obtaining a warrant and going to the telephone company.
It is the case of an individual in San Diego who was convicted of sending $8,500 to Somalia in support of Al Shabab, the terror organization claiming responsibility for the Kenyan mall attack.  The American phone records allowed the NSA to determine that a U.S. phone was used to contact an individual associated with this terror organization.
I am appreciative that the NSA was able to apprehend this individual, but it does not provide overwhelming evidence that this program is necessary. Mr. President, the Obama Administration has come to the same conclusion. So has the Intelligence community.
The operational capabilities the Intelligence community relies on to conduct their mission to keep us safe will not be impacted by the USA FREEDOM Act.  If it were, the Intelligence Community and the Administration would not have brokered this compromise legislation. Ending the bulk collection programs and giving Americans more transparency so they can determine for themselves whether they believe these programs should exists is obligation we have to our constituents.
We have a bill introduced today that would give our law enforcement authorities the tools they need to keep us safe while also staying true to the Fourth Amendment. I encourage my colleagues to support these important reforms and hope that it can quickly be considered by this Chamber.
Mr. President, I yield the floor.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140726034522/https://heck.house.gov/press-release/heck-applauds-three-kids-mine-bill-being-signed-law,Heck Applauds Three Kids Mine Bill Being Signed into Law,2014-07-25,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON - Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today released the following statement upon learning that President Barack Obama signed H.R. 697, the Three Kids Mine Remediation and Reclamation Act, into law.
The bill provides an innovative public-private partnership solution to finally clean up the abandoned Three Kids Mine site in Henderson at no cost to federal taxpayers. It is estimated that the clean up and development of the Three Kids Mine site could create as many as 3,000 jobs over the life of the project.
""This new law will help get southern Nevada back to work,"" Rep. Heck said. ""If Nevada's economy is going to continue improving, it will need room to grow. That is the long-term economic development opportunity this law provides the city of Henderson.""
Rep. Heck continued, “Today is a perfect example of how the Nevada delegation can come together and advance issues important to our local communities. I look forward to working with Henderson Mayor Andy Hafen, the Henderson City Council, and all of the stakeholders to get the Three Kids Mine redevelopment project off the ground as soon as possible.""
“I would like to congratulate Congressman Heck for creating an innovative solution for the cleanup of the Three Kids Mine Site,” said Western Caucus Chairman Steve Pearce. “The law calls for a public-private partnership to clean up a mine that the federal government neglected for so many years.  This new law will not cost taxpayers a dime, will help the environment, and will create thousands of direct jobs while allowing for future economic development on the property.”
THREE KIDS MINE TIMELINE:
February 14, 2013 - Rep. Heck Introduces Bill to Clean Up Three Kids Mine Site
July 22, 2013 - Three Kids Mine Bill Passes House
July 10, 2014 - Senate Passage of Three Kids Mine Bill
July 25, 2014 - President Obama signs H.R. 697 into law
BACKGROUND:
* The Three Kids Mine site is a 1,260 acre abandoned manganese mine and mill site located along the south side of Lake Mead Drive, across the highway from Lake Las Vegas, in Henderson.
* The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey the Federal lands at the project site – approximately 948 acres – at fair market value taking into account the costs of investigating and remediating the entire site, which includes an additional 314 acres of now-private lands that were used historically in mine operations.
* In return for conveying the land at fair market value, the Federal Government will also receive a release of liability for cleanup of both the Federal and private lands.
* Before the Federal lands are conveyed, the State must enter into a binding consent agreement under which the cleanup of the entire project site will occur.
* This agreement must include financial assurances to ensure the completion of the remediation and reclamation of the site.
* The cleanup will be financed with private capital and Nevada tax increment financing at no cost to the Federal government.
* H.R. 697 is the result of more than five years of work among the City of Henderson Redevelopment Agency, the Department of the Interior, the State of Nevada, and private entities.
###
Congressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140725020248/http://heck.house.gov/press-release/hecks-youth-trafficking-victim-support-bill-passes-house,Heck's Youth Trafficking Victim Support Bill Passes House,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Joe Heck,H001055,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Legislation builds off input from May panel discussion, previous House action to combat trafficking
WASHINGTON – The House passed bipartisan legislation today introduced by Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) to provide additional support to runaway and homeless youth who are victims of severe trafficking.  Severe trafficking includes youth forced to perform manual labor or commercial sex acts.  The bill passed the House unanimously.  
	H.R. 5076, the Enhancing Services for Runaway and Homeless Victims of Youth Trafficking Act, was introduced following an anti-human trafficking panel Rep. Heck hosted in Henderson in May. One area of agreement on the panel discussion was that more resources were needed for victims’ advocacy and support, especially for at-risk youth. This bill, developed from information provided by constituents at home, helps address that issue.
""Our nation’s runaway and homeless youth deserve access to services that will help them escape a life of crime, abuse, and neglect. By passing this simple fix to the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act we can ensure that those suffering from the trauma of these deplorable acts will have access to the care and support they need."" - Rep. Joe Heck
Background:
	The Enhancing Services for Runaway and Homeless Victims of Youth Trafficking Act:
	* Enables the Secretary of Health and Human Services to apply existing grant resources to train relevant staff on the effects of human trafficking in runaway and homeless youth victims, and for developing state-wide strategies to serve such youth.
	  * Allows the secretary to utilize the Street Outreach Program to provide street-based services for runaway and homeless youth who are victims of trafficking.
	Rep. Heck's Enhancing Services for Runaway and Homeless Victims of Youth Trafficking Act was included as part of a second round of anti-human trafficking legislation advanced by the House aimed at achieving the dual goals of ending the human trafficking epidemic and assisting the victims.
	The transient nature of the Las Vegas population and the city's status as a major national and international travel destination make it a target for individuals who engage in human trafficking. In fact, according to the Attorney General's website, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has recovered 2,229 victims of sex trafficking since 1994 and the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline has received 496 calls from around Nevada since 2009.
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Congressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=ab48ab57-50ea-4cc3-99e5-9417c66ddc52,CONGRATULATING REBECCA ESPINOZA,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CONGRATULATING REBECCA ESPINOZA
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
July 24, 2014
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate one of Nevada’s brightest students – Rebecca Espinoza – for being chosen to participate in the United Health Foundation’s Diverse Scholars Forum in Washington, D.C.   
The United Health Foundation named scholars from 28 states throughout the nation this year, and I am proud that Rebecca Espinoza, who attends the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, is among them.  The Diverse Scholars Initiative serves to improve our nation’s health care system by increasing the number of health care professionals from multicultural backgrounds.  Rebecca’s academic achievements thus far and her continued commitment to serving her community have made her a qualified candidate for the forum. 
In an effort to continue her dedication and service to her community, Rebecca is currently majoring in social work at UNLV and hopes to one day become a clinical social worker operating a non-profit to help disadvantaged youth in the community.  I commend Rebecca for her mission and recognize that professional social workers provide valuable mental health therapy, caregiver and family counseling, health education, program coordination, and case management services.  They also seek to ensure full participation of all members of society by working with millions of individuals, their families, and communities to combat a range of social problems so that we may improve our nation’s health and potential.  Rebecca has been presented with the opportunity to pursue her career as a health care professional, and I am confident that great things will come from her in all of her future endeavors.
On behalf of the residents of the Silver State, I am proud to recognize Rebecca for her accomplishments and contributions to our state.  She undoubtedly represents Nevada’s best and brightest.  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating this exceptional young Nevadan.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=ac18f0fe-9c62-431e-8f49-ccc47fd1b889,RECOGNIZING VETERANS SUPPORT NETWORK,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NV,Dean Heller,H001041,www.heller.senate.gov,,,legacy,"RECOGNIZING VETERAN'S SUPPORT NETWORK
HON. DEAN HELLER
OF NEVADA
IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE
    July 24, 2014      
Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, today I wish to recognize a veterans education program within Las Vegas known as Veteran’s Support Network for its continued dedication to helping its fellow service members gain training and certifications that will assist them in becoming self-sufficient.  This unique program works to improve the lives of disabled, visually impaired, and homeless veterans by providing educational classes and trainings, funding for on-the-job training, as well as professional talking books and Braille books to assist those with disabilities.
The brave men and women who served the United States and fought to protect our freedom have often come home to a struggling economy.  A number of veterans are unable to find a job or afford to buy or rent a home.  As the demographics of our Armed Forces have changed throughout the years, so too have the needs of homeless veterans. As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Committee, this is an issue I have been personally involved with and have introduced legislation to address.  Organizations like the Veteran’s Support Network serve to help those in need in the Las Vegas community. This organization is a shining example of the kind of initiatives that will help to get our veterans off of the streets.
There is no way to adequately thank the men and women that lay down their lives for our freedoms, but the founders and volunteers at the Veteran’s Support Network are working to assist our nation’s veterans by giving them the opportunity to start a new career. The organization was founded by Ed Manley, a brave veteran who has selflessly been working toward the betterment of the homeless veteran community by teaching certification classes and working tirelessly to find funds to assist the homeless and wounded veterans within the community. This organization’s continued dedication to serving veterans needing to learn new skills, build resume experience and earn wages through work assistance programs is commendable.
As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I know the struggles that our veterans face after returning home from the battlefield. Congress has a responsibility not only to honor these brave individuals, but to ensure they receive the quality care they have earned and deserve.  I remain committed to upholding this promise for our veterans and service members in Nevada and throughout the nation.  I am very pleased that veterans’ service organizations like the Veteran’s Support Network are committed to ensuring that the needs of our veterans are being met.
Today, I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in recognizing the Veteran’s Support Network, an organization whose mission is both noble and charitable. I am both humbled and honored to recognize the Veteran’s Support Network’s mission of providing veterans with the skills that will allow them the opportunity to change their circumstances.  This organization’s commitment to helping struggling veterans get back on their feet is admirable, and I wish them the best of luck in all of their future endeavors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z