url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398382,Ninth District Traveling Staff Office Hours for January,2014-12-29,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Griffith’s Ninth District STAFF will be available at the following locations during the month of January.  In the event of inclement weather (heavy snow, sleet, icy rain, etc.), traveling office hours may be rescheduled to avoid putting constituents at risk.  Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions or to confirm that traveling hours are still in effect. January 6, 2015 Tazewell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Richlands Town Hall 200 Washington Square Richlands, VA Buchanan County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Grundy Town Hall 1185 Plaza Drive Grundy, VA Pulaski County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Dublin Town Hall Route 100, 1 mile North of I-81 Dublin, VA January 7, 2015 Smyth County:     10:00 am – 12:00 pm Town Council Chambers 138 West Main Street Marion, VA Covington:     10:00 am – 12:00 pm Covington City Hall City Hall Conference Room 333 W. Locust Street Covington, VA Craig County:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Craig County Administration Building 108 Court Street New Castle, VA Bristol:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bristol VA Public Library Upstairs Conference Room 701 Goode Street Bristol, VA January 8, 2015 Grayson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Grayson County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room – Suite 206 129 Davis Street Independence, VA Russell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Southwest Virginia Technology Development Center 141 Highland Drive Lebanon, VA Tazewell County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bluefield Town Hall – Council Chambers 112 Huffard Drive Bluefield, VA Galax:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Galax Municipal Building Conference Room 111 E. Main Street Galax, VA January 13, 2015 Giles County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Pearisburg Town Hall 112 Tazewell Street Pearisburg, VA Dickenson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Dickenson Center for Education & Research 818 Happy Valley Drive Clintwood, VA Salem:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Salem Library 28 East Main Street Salem, VA Wise County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Big Stone Gap Federal Courthouse 3rd Floor Room 303 322 Wood Avenue E Big Stone Gap, VA January 14, 2015 Radford:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Radford Public Library Meeting Room 30 West Main Street Radford, VA Pulaski County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Pulaski County Library Meeting Room 60 3rd Street NW Pulaski, VA January 15, 2015 Alleghany County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Clifton Forge Library Conference Room 535 Church Street Clifton Forge, VA Scott County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Community Services Building Community Room 190 Beech Street Gate City, VA Roanoke County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Roanoke Library Hollins Branch 6624 Peters Creek Road Roanoke, VA Wise County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Big Stone Gap Federal Courthouse 3rd Floor Room 303 322 Wood Avenue E Big Stone Gap, VA January 20, 2015 Carroll County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Carroll County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room 605 – 1 Pine Street Hillsville, VA Floyd County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Floyd County Library 321 W. Main Street Floyd, VA January 21, 2015 Henry County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bassett Historical Society 3964 Fairystone Parkway Bassett, VA Bland County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bland County Courthouse Admin. Office Room 200 612 Main Street Bland, VA Wythe County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Wythe County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room 245 South 4th Street Wytheville, VA Patrick County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Patrick County Administration Building Conference Room 106 Rucker Street Stuart, VA  ** Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398383,Congressman Griffiths 2015 Congressional Issues Survey,2014-12-29,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"As your Congressman, I am committed to making sure that your views and positions are heard when key issues are debated in Washington.  Please share with me your perspective about some the issues and proposals that may come before the Congress in 2015.  To take the 2015 Congressional Issues Survey, please click here or visit http://morgangriffith.house.gov/2015issuessurvey/ . With concerns, comments, or to request a physical copy of the 2015 Congressional Issues Survey, you can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671.  To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398381,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.22.14,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"God Bless Us, Every One! 171 years ago in 1843, well-loved English writer Charles Dickens published A Christmas Carol.  Even if they don’t know of Charles Dickens by name, many Americans are familiar with the story of bitter, curmudgeonly old Ebenezer Scrooge and the redemptive journey that ultimately transforms him into a warmer, gentler, and more generous human being. A Christmas Carol is a timeless tale that remains popular to this day – particularly this time of year – whether in print or adapted to stage, film, or other types of media.   Far lesser known is Dickens’ first novel, The Pickwick Papers, published in 1837.  In The Pickwick Papers, Dickens wrote a chapter similar in nature to the plot of A Christmas Carol, evidently developing what would in a few years become the classic. Among other stories in The Pickwick Papers is ‘The Goblin and the Sexton,’ in which Dickens tells of the morose, melancholy and lonely Gabriel Grub (who was a gravedigger and ‘sexton,’ or one who looks over a church).  On Christmas Eve, as he was finishing digging a grave, Gabriel was met by a goblin sitting on a tombstone.   “Who makes graves at a time when all other men are merry, and takes a pleasure in it?,"" the goblin asked.  The goblin soon continued, “We know the man with the sulky face and grim scowl, that came down the street to-night, throwing his evil looks at the children, and grasping his burying-spade the tighter.  We know the man who struck the boy in the envious malice of his heart, because the boy could be merry, and he could not.  We know him, we know him."" Soon after, a number of goblins poured into the graveyard, which also filled with the lively music of an organ.  The goblins proceed to take Gabriel Grubb away and show him the past and the future, much like in A Christmas Carol. As the story goes, “Above all, [Gabriel] saw that men like himself, who snarled at the mirth and cheerfulness of others, were the foulest weeds on the fair surface of the earth; and setting all the good of the world against the evil, he came to the conclusion that it was a very decent and respectable sort of world after all.”  Soon after this realization the goblins faded from view, and Gabriel Grubb fell asleep in the empty graveyard.   When he awoke, “…he was an altered man, and he could not bear the thought of returning to a place where his repentance would be scoffed at, and his reformation disbelieved.  He hesitated for a few moments; and then turned away to wander where he might, and seek his bread elsewhere.”  The whereabouts of Gabriel Grubb were unknown for some ten years, until he returned a ragged, though content, old man.   Even though Dickens was a great, master storyteller, the role of The Pickwick Papers in developing the message of A Christmas Carol is clear.  His story of holiday human redemption was a work in progress for a number of years before he saw it fit to publish A Christmas Carol. Not only do storylines and plots develop and progress with time, but we as people do so as well and, ideally, we improve with each passing year.  The moral of Dickens’ stories is that there is redemption.  Like Gabriel Grubb and Ebenezer Scrooge, we all can become better.  Doing so often requires patience and resolve, should our initial attempt be flawed or unsuccessful.  However, I hope that neither you nor I require visits from goblins or the ghosts of Christmas to recognize we can improve. Returning to Dickens’ famous A Christmas Carol, we recall the beloved Tiny Tim and his famous line, “God bless us, every one!”  As we celebrate this holiday season and the birth of Christ, many celebrate with the giving of gifts, among other traditions.  Particularly for Christians such as myself, we celebrate the gift that Jesus brought us with his birth, life, crucifixion, and resurrection. This holiday season, I wish for you and your loved ones progress, success, health, and serenity.  Best wishes for a safe and merry Christmas.   And so I echo the words of Tiny Tim: God bless us, every one! As always, if you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398379,Griffith to McAuliffe: Do Not Carry On the War on Coal,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) today issued the following statement regarding reports that Governor Terry McAuliffe (D-VA) will soon be proposing to limit State tax credits and deductions that assist coal producers with coalfield jobs and electricity generation:  “Coal-producing regions such as the Ninth District of Virginia are already reeling from job losses resulting from federal regulations and the Obama Administration’s ongoing war on coal.  Sadly, now it seems our State Executive will soon be declaring his own war on coal as well.” “Governor McAuliffe claims to want jobs, economic growth, and to ‘put Virginia first.’  But one may question the motive behind his reported policies.” “As I have said repeatedly, the war on coal, while targeting the coal industry, affects us all.  Those working in the coalfields suffer as a result of these policies, but also harmed are the industries that rely on coal mines.  When coal jobs are cut, the people who supply materials to the coal mines, those operating the trains carrying the coal, and the people working in the ports that ship the coal are all impacted.  And when the work stops below the ground in coal-producing communities, life above ground is impacted as well, hurting the livelihoods of many in the surrounding communities.” “Under the Constitution of Virginia, the State has an obligation to make sure educational opportunities are equal throughout the State.  The continued war on coal makes it even harder on coal-producing localities to fund K-12 education.  To make up for the dollars these localities are losing by virtue of the actions of the Obama Administration in Washington and now his Administration in Richmond, Governor McAuliffe should also be increasing the amount of money from the State Treasury going to these communities.  Absent significant new expenditures for education in coal-producing parts of Southwest Virginia, I fear the Governor’s proposals are short-sighted.” “I have one message for those waging the war on coal: end the war on coal so that the people in coal-producing regions of Southwest Virginia can better support their own local governments, schools, and their own families.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398378,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.15.14,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"More on Ending the Modern Filibuster Rule On many occasions, I have taken issue with the modern interpretation of the Senate filibuster rule.  When I last wrote on this topic in a newsletter, it was just before this year’s elections.  Control of the Senate had not yet been determined. As I have said previously, this is not a partisan issue.  On running the government efficiently, it might not matter which party wins the majority if the Senate rules are not changed. Whether or not you agree with Republican policies, come January 6, the Republican party will be in control of both the House and the Senate.  I strongly believe that in November, the American people voted for change. I also strongly believe that the modern filibuster – which requires a super majority in order to make a decision on any issue of significance – violates the spirit of the Founding Fathers’ intent to have a majority rule Republic based on Democratic principles.  They never intended for a significant portion of the Senate’s business to be blocked by a minority. The historical rule – as depicted in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington when Jimmy Stewart holds the floor with an impassioned filibuster that slowly changes the minds of his fellow senators – is a good process.  But starting in the 1970’s, a senator can filibuster by merely making a request.  This is generally called a “hold.”  Adding insult to injury, the senator’s identity doesn’t even have to be made public. I had been hopeful that a Senate Republican majority might see that this modern filibuster rule is a threat to the long-term stability of the Republic, and revert to the historical rule.  Instead, unfortunately, some in the Senate seem unwilling to return to the historical filibuster rule, and are already making apologies.  By apologies, I mean they are telling us in the House and their constituents that they can’t get everything done the voters want because they still don’t have 60 votes.  But as I quipped to one new Senator-elect recently, “It’s only a 60 vote requirement because you allow it to be that way in the rules.”  Clearly it would break with a 40-year tradition, but the Founding Fathers believed in majority rule.  There are many problems in Washington, and there are some rules in the House which need to be tweaked.  Further, it would be helpful if the House actually followed its rules.  But I believe that the modern filibuster rule is one of the biggest procedural problems in Washington, D.C. The American people are deserving of a government that works.  I have no problem with a Senator taking to the floor for a traditional filibuster should they object to a bill under consideration.  Nor do I take issue with the fact that the filibuster reform I am supporting would likely result in bills coming to the House from the Senate that may be difficult votes for me and my colleagues.  This would be especially true should the Democrats regain control of the Senate. But by reverting to the historical rule, I believe more bills will be voted on, more compromises will be reached, and more progress can be made when it comes to growing jobs and our economy, fixing our health care system, securing our energy future, and more.  This is the how the process is designed to work.  It is essential to begin building the consensus and compromise.  This is what our country expects from its elected leaders. After reading my November 3, 2014 message calling for the end of the modern filibuster rule, several people said something to the effect of, “Oh, yes, of course Griffith wants to change this rule now that the Republican party gains control of the Senate,” or, “I don’t remember Griffith calling for this change before, when the Republicans used this rule to block the President’s agenda.”  To these folks, I would respectfully note that I wrote regarding my thoughts about the need for filibuster reform as early as November 16, 2012 – soon after the 2012 elections, in which President Obama won reelection and the Senate was firmly in Democrat hands with a combined total (53 Democrats and two Independents who caucused with the Democrats) of 55 seats.  As always, if you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398376,Griffith Statement on Government Spending Bill,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement today after voting against the nine-month government spending bill: “As with all compromises, this bill includes a number of both good and bad items, which I often refer to as ‘candy apples’ and ‘toads,’ respectively.  I understand that action must be taken, and I appreciate the hard work that has gone into this bill.  However, I feel there are myriad reasons to oppose this particular compromise.” “I strongly believe that in November, the American people voted for change.  Among the more than 400 House-passed bills currently sitting stalled in the Senate are a number of appropriations bills, which authorize funding for certain government activities such as national defense, homeland security, education, and others.  In the normal course of business, there are supposed to be 12 appropriations bills, and these bills require regular (usually annual) authorization.  The House of Representatives passed and sent 7 of these bills to the Senate this year, but Senate Democrats wouldn’t pass any of them, stiff-arming us and impeding regular order.  Leadership in the House of Representatives decided not to have us vote on the remaining 5 because the Senate would not act.” “Compromise is part of the legislating process, and unfortunately Senate Democrats after the election are coming to the table with unclean hands because of their prior unwillingness to work with us.  Therefore, following the November election, I repeatedly stated my belief that we ought to pass a short-term spending bill.  Doing so would honor the will of the voters that we work out longer-term spending priorities with the newly elected Senate.” “Further, the process in bringing this bill forward in the House was flawed.  This more than 1,600 page bill was released at approximately 8:15pm on Tuesday with a vote expected Thursday afternoon.  For me, this is too short of a time frame in which to read, investigate, and maturely consider this lengthy spending legislation.  I do not feel I was able to complete the work I normally do before making a decision on a significant piece of legislation.  I wish leadership had given us more time to fully understand a bill of this complexity and enormity.” “If I do not feel I can adequately explain most aspects of a bill, it is my general policy to vote no.  To reiterate, there are some good ‘candy apples’ in this bill.  But while I know some of the legislation’s ‘candy apples’ and some of its ‘toads,’ there is much that I am unable to comfortably explain at this time.” “For the reasons enumerated above, I opposed this bill.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=558,Wittman to Again Chair Readiness Subcommittee in 114th Congress,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today after House Armed Services Committee Chairman-elect Mac Thornberry (TX-13) renamed him Chairman of the Subcommittee on Readiness for the upcoming 114th Congress: It has been an honor serving as Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee during the 113th Congress, and I look forward to building on our previous and ongoing efforts in the 114th. I am truly humbled that Chairman-elect Thornberry has selected me to continue in this exciting role that brings with it tremendous responsibilities. The challenges facing our military's readiness continue to grow under sequestration, just as threats multiply around the world, and I remain committed to restoring that readiness and making our services' capabilities whole. The men and women of our armed forces are the best in the world. I am eager to work with Chairman-elect Thornberry and my colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee to ensure that our servicemen and women have the full support of their government behind them as they selflessly serve. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=559,Wittman: Return to Regular Order,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today after opposing the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015: In August I demanded that Congress remain in Washington until its work was done. Unfortunately, Congress still adjourned, and we now find ourselves at a familiar juncture: passing a bill to fund the government at the eleventh hour. While I am pleased that the critical functions of government are not shutting down, and that programs serving our military and veterans are still being properly resourced, I am frustrated at the process by which we have reached this point. I opposed this bill tonight because Congress has had months to properly fund our government with better legislation that doesn't include so many provisions that are disagreeable to folks on both sides of the aisle, such as the section that would add to the gross imbalance in government by allowing more outside money to flow into politics. We should be fixing campaign finance laws, not making things worse. I also believe that this bill did not go far enough to reign in the President's unilateral action on immigration. As the 114th Congress takes office in January, I am adamant that Congress return to regular order in which we pass timely budget resolutions and consistent appropriations bills. The uncertainty caused by Washington's political games has a significant impact on our small businesses and communities and also threatens the readiness of our military. I am hopeful that the new year will find Congress and the White House prepared to pursue long-term, responsible solutions that can end the uncertainty in Washington and help to strengthen and preserve this great nation. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=557,"Wittman, Warner Chesapeake Bay Legislation Passes House, Cleared for President's Signature",2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014, sponsored by Representative Rob Wittman (R-VA-01) and Senator Mark R. Warner (D-VA), by a vote of 416-0. The legislation will increase coordination and transparency within Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts, in addition to reducing duplication of federal and state efforts. The bill passed the U.S. Senate on December 2, 2014, and is now cleared for the President's signature. The Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014 requires the development of a cross-cut budget to detail the activities of all federal agencies that are involved in Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts. Additionally, the legislation would create a Chesapeake Bay Program Independent Evaluator to review and report to Congress on restoration activates in the watershed. The Chesapeake Bay partnership includes 10 federal agencies, six states and the District of Columbia, over one thousand localities and multiple non-governmental organizations. To date, the complexity of the participants has resulted in a muddled effort. The Chesapeake Bay is one of our nation's prized historic resources, Rep. Wittman said. While many entities share a commitment to restoring the health of this economic driver for communities and industries across the Commonwealth, we must ensure that federal, state, and local efforts are not working at cross purposes, and that the restoration effort as a whole is coordinated and efficient. With today's action, we are one step closer to ensuring that the Chesapeake Bay remains the economic foundation of our region and a national treasure that will be enjoyed for generations to come. Rep. Wittman first introduced the Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act in the House of Representatives in 2008. Versions of the bill have passed the House alone or as part of broader packages in each of the last three sessions of Congress. Sen. Warner first sponsored the bill in 2011. Restoring the Chesapeake Bay will not only preserve a national treasure, but will reap huge economic and environmental benefits to the Commonwealth and the millions of people who live within the Bay's watershed. This legislation allows us to better manage and coordinate the activities of dozens of state and federal stakeholders to increase accountability and make sure that every dollar spent is making progress towards cleaning up the Bay. I want to thank Congressman Wittman for his tireless efforts over several years to enact this legislation, and I was very pleased to help get it across the finish line, Senator Warner said. In drafting this legislation, Rep. Wittman drew heavily on his 23 years of experience as a shellfish specialist monitoring water quality and environmental health issues in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. In addition to generating billions of dollars in economic activity, the Bay provides tens of thousands of jobs in the commercial seafood and recreational fishing industries. Since coming to Congress, the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay has been one of Rep. Wittman's top priorities. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398373,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.8.14,2014-12-08,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The ABLE Act Much talk about Congress focuses on partisan conflict.  But it is important to keep in mind that, though discord gets more attention, Democrats and Republicans can and do work together to get things done.  Among my efforts are the bipartisan Drug Quality and Security Act (H.R. 3089) to clarify oversight of the compounding drug manufacturing system (which was signed into law) and the Patient Choice Act (H.R. 2090), bipartisan legislation to speed up Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of drugs and give certain patients the option to buy new, innovative, experimental drugs and therapies at their own expense. More recently, I was proud to cosponsor and vote in favor of the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act (H.R. 647), which passed the House of Representatives on December 3 with very strong bipartisan support.  The ABLE Act enables those with disabilities to set up tax-free savings accounts, and will allow those on Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to work, earn money, and save while continuing to receive those benefits.   Much like 529 college savings accounts, these 529A (or ABLE) accounts would be administered by the States on a voluntary basis.  The range of investment options would be determined by the States. In voicing their support for the ABLE Act, Americans for Tax Reform said on December 2, “Put simply, an ABLE account is to a child with a disability what a 529 plan is to a child who has college in his future.  Not only is an ABLE account a good way to increase tax-free savings for families (always a good thing), it's a compassionate way for families with special needs children to save for the needs of the most vulnerable.” The ABLE accounts will assist those with disabilities and their caretakers with managing expenses, helping to provide stability, security, and the knowledge they can save and cover the costs of medical care, housing, transportation, education, etc. into the future. “This is why we’re here: to advance solutions that make people’s lives better,” said Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), whose seven-year old son Cole has Down syndrome.  “Solutions that empower all Americans – no matter where they come from, how much money they make, or what challenges they face.” I urge the Senate to pass the ABLE Act, so we can send this common-sense bill to the President to be signed into law. Defeating ISIS and Defending Congress’ Power In previous columns I have noted my belief that the President does not have the authority to wage an extended war on the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) without Congressional approval.  Like Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), I believe Congress must debate and decide whether or not the United States goes to war or, alternatively, consider an authorization for the use of military force. As described by the New York Times, Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) “…used a routine meeting over an unrelated issue — clean water — to force his colleagues to schedule a vote on authorizing force against the Islamic State.” The President is Commander in Chief, but it is the constitutional duty of Congress to declare war.  I am pleased the Senate will be taking action on this important matter, and strongly believe the House should also debate and vote on this issue as well. Protecting Civil Liberties Each year, Congress considers the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which primarily specifies budgeting for the Department of Defense.  However, although the NDAA does include some good provisions, I am of the belief that it fails to adequately protect our civil liberties. The law says if you give assistance to a terrorist, you can be held indefinitely by the military against your constitutional rights.  Note it doesn’t stipulate that you know that person is a terrorist. In theory, under the current system, you could be held indefinitely for having a new neighbor over for dinner or for assisting them with changing a tire, even if you are unaware of that person’s alleged involvement with or connection to al-Qaeda and associated forces.  While not specifically defined, those probably include groups on the U.S. State Department’s Foreign Terrorist Organizations List. Of course, people push back on this, saying, “Well, they wouldn’t actually detain you for something like this.”  But if that’s so, why not provide clarity in the law so it requires someone to knowingly give assistance to a terrorist or terrorist organization? If I am to err, I will err on the side of liberty.  Because it lacks language that clearly protects our freedom, as in past years, I opposed this bill. As always, if you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671.  To reach my office by email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=554,Wittman Statement on NDAA Provisions Adjusting Military Compensation and Allowances,2014-12-05,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1), Chairman of the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee, released the following statement today concerning provisions in the House-passed National Defense Authorization Act for 2014 (H.R. 3979) which adjusted military compensation and allowances: The passage of today's bill was absolutely necessary for protecting our national security and ensuring our military is resourced to accomplish its missions. However, I am adamantly opposed to provisions which increase pharmacy copays and reduce the basic housing allowance. While the provisions were a better option than what was requested by the Senate and DoD, both of which supported a higher increase in copays and a more significant reduction in the basic housing allowance, I believe it is premature to adjust the benefits of service members or their families without comprehensive review and recommendations from the ongoing Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization Commission. I will continue to fight to ensure this nation honors its promise to our service members, veterans and military families. Wittman Statement in Congressional Record Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=556,Wittman Statement on Ash Carter Nomination as Secretary of Defense,2014-12-05,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Wittman Statement on Ash Carter Nomination as Secretary of Defense f t # e Washington, D.C., December 5, 2014 Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1), Chairman of the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee, released the following statement today after President Barack Obama announced that he would nominate Ashton Carter to be the next Secretary of Defense: Ash Carter is a dedicated public servant who possesses a thorough understanding of the budget crisis the Department of Defense is experiencing. I look forward to working with him if he is confirmed by the Senate."" The challenges facing the Department of Defense are far-reaching, and I am committed to working with the Pentagon to ensure our men and women in uniform are fully trained, equipped, and resourced to accomplish their missions successfully and return home safely. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # # f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398372,Griffith Statement on the NDAA,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement today following his vote against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2015: “Though it does include some good provisions, I remain of the belief that the National Defense Authorization Act fails to adequately protect our civil liberties.  Put simply, we cannot leave our liberty to inference.  Among what makes America so great are our freedoms and liberties.  Without language that clearly protects our freedom, if I am to err, I will err on the side of liberty.  For that reason, as in past years, I could not vote for this bill.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=553,Wittman Applauds House Passage of National Defense Authorization Act of 2015,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1), Chairman of the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee, applauded the House passage of H.R. 3979, the Carl Levin and Howard P. Buck McKeon National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2015, which follows original House passage in May. Passage of this bill highlights Congress' strong commitment to our military, Wittman said. The military's resources have been continually undermined by senseless, unbalanced budget cuts in recent years, and it is critical that we ensure our servicemen and women have the training and equipment to accomplish their missions and return home. The threats facing our nation grow every day, and our defense budget must be governed by strategy, not numbers. The NDAA authorizes $521.3 billion in base discretionary spending for national defense. The bill includes a number of initiatives championed by Wittman, including provisions to: Prohibit DOD from conducting another base realignment and closure round at a time when our national security strategy is in flux, our requirements uncertain, and the future unclear; Fund critical operation and maintenance activities, such as depot maintenance, ship and aircraft sustainment, and basic and advanced training for troops; Ensure a ready and robust Navy that is prepared to support global Combatant Commander requirements by including incremental funding for the construction of a 12th San Antonio class amphibious ship (LPD-28); Restore funding for the refueling and overhaul of USS George Washington (CVN-73). This bill strengthens many of our most critical defense programs, Wittman added. However, our work is not done, as there is a continued need to make our readiness whole. The overall strength and preparedness of our military continues to be threatened by the combination of unnecessary budget cuts and the impending sequester. We absolutely must restore readiness and maintain it going forward so that our nation's military remains the greatest the world has ever known. Finally, Wittman said, I'd like to thank Buck McKeon for his service to our nation both as Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee and representative for California's 25th congressional district. His commitment to our troops is unparalleled and he has served the American people well. I wish him the best as he moves on to the next chapter of his life. Watch: Rep. Rob Wittman Speaks during Floor Debate of FY15 NDAA Read: Summary of FY15 NDAA Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=555,Wittman Supports Legislation Rolling Back Immigration Executive Order,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement after supporting H.R. 5759, the Preventing Executive Overreach on Immigration Act, which rolls back the President's recent executive order to change immigration policy: Before the President announced his executive action, I urged him to remember what he'd said in 2013, when he acknowledged that the path to get immigration reform done is through Congress. Despite the concerns of many Americans, the President still chose to circumvent the legislative process and the Constitution. Today's legislation reinforces the reality that the President simply cannot unilaterally make policy. Our founders established our system of government with a purpose, and the President must work with Congress. To fix our broken immigration system, we must first secure the border, enforce existing laws, and reform our visa program. I remain adamantly opposed to amnesty in any shape or form. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398371,Griffith Statement on Tax Increase Prevention Act,2014-12-03,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the Tax Increase Prevention Act (H.R. 5771): “This legislation, as is often the case, is far from perfect.  It includes tax credits for the wind power industry, tax credits I oppose.  However, it also contains provisions supportive of our farmers, teachers, and small businesses.  As is the case with all compromises, I try to determine whether the good outweighs the bad.” “In this bill, I believe the good narrowly outweighs the bad.  For example, I have heard from a number of farmers from the Ninth District of Virginia in support of this tax extender package and the benefits it will provide them.  In voicing their support, the American Farm Bureau Federation said, ‘…the extension of tax provisions contained in this legislation are critically important to farm and ranch businesses as they engage in year-end business planning and file their 2014 taxes.’  One such provision is the Section 179 small business expensing limit, which makes it easier to purchase equipment.” “Another provision extends the ability for our K-12 school teachers to take an above-the-line deduction for some of the supplies they buy for projects in their classrooms.” “There are numerous other provisions which will be beneficial for small businesses and job creators.” “Accordingly, while admittedly having some negatives, I ultimately concluded it was in the overall best interest of the United States and the Ninth District to vote in favor of the bill.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=552,Senate Unanimously passes Warner-Wittman Chesapeake Bay Accountability Act,2014-12-02,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. The U.S. Senate today passed the bipartisan Chesapeake Bay Accountability Act of 2014, sponsored by U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA-01), by unanimous consent. The legislation will bring increased accountability measures and a more collaborative management approach to Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts and spending. The 2013 legislation now returns to the House of Representatives for approval. The Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014 requires the U.S. Office of Management and Budget to prepare a crosscut budget to better track the progress of Bay restoration efforts, comparing costs and the performance of restoration activities by the various federal agencies involved in the Bay preservation effort. The multi-state, multi-year initiative to restore the health of the Chesapeake Bay involves at least 10 federal agencies, Virginia and five other states, the District of Columbia, and more than 1,000 local governments. The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure and a centerpiece of the culture and economy of many coastal communities in Virginia, and neighboring states. I commend the collaborative efforts of federal, state, and local partners across the watershed who are working tirelessly to preserve and restore the Bay, Senator Warner said. In order to improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay during a time of limited federal funding, we must make sure that every dollar spent on restoration activities produces real results. I will continue to focus on ways to be a good steward of both the taxpayer's dollar and the Commonwealth's invaluable natural resources. Today's Senate passage of this Chesapeake Bay legislation is a tremendous step forward, Wittman said. After seeing my Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act pass the House with overwhelming bipartisan support numerous times, I am thrilled to see progress in the Senate. I appreciate Senator Warner's steady cooperation and leadership in getting the bill passed through the Senate in its current form. Moving forward, I will push for swift House passage of this bill so that we can get it to the President's desk. Sen. Warner first sponsored the Chesapeake Bay Accountability Act along with then-U.S. Sen. Jim Webb (D-VA) in 2011. The 2013 Act was cosponsored by U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA). Rep. Wittman first introduced the bill in the House of Representatives in 2008. Versions of the bill have passed the House of Representatives alone or as part of broader packages in each of the last three sessions of Congress. This bill will display on one sheet which agencies are investing in Chesapeake Bay restoration and on what activities and where, said Senator Kaine. Having chaired the Chesapeake Executive Council as Governor of Virginia, I understand the importance of tracking restoration work among many stakeholders in a tangible, quantifiable way. This legislation is a good government measure that bolsters our efforts to clean up the Bay while improving the transparency of government spending, and I salute Senator Warner and Congressman Wittman for their bipartisan leadership on it. As Governor of Virginia from 2002-2006, Sen. Warner increased spending on natural resources by 34% and took a leadership role in protecting the Bay, including adoption of the most comprehensive nutrient reduction standards in the nation. Governor Warner's final budget included $243 million for clean drinking water programs, and the Warner Administration funded the largest single investment in water quality in state history. A PDF of the legislation is available here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398370,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 12.1.14,2014-12-01,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Immigration – An Update It has been more than a week since President Obama announced his executive actions regarding immigration.  I have serious concerns about his actions and their legality.  My concerns include whether the President can broadly and unilaterally grant illegal immigrants permission to work. Further, among the red flags being raised about the President’s immigration announcement is a recent report by the Washington Times indicating that, under this plan, “…businesses will have a $3,000-per-employee incentive to hire illegal immigrants over native-born workers because of a quirk of Obamacare.” The President’s plan, though it declares as many as 5 million illegal immigrants to be eligible for work permits, deems them ineligible for public benefits such as Obamacare.  As the Washington Times notes, “…that means businesses who hire them won’t have to pay a penalty for not providing them health coverage — making them $3,000 more attractive than a similar native-born worker, whom the business by law would have to cover.”  According to this same Washington Times report, an anonymous official at the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that these immigrants will be unable to access Obamacare, creating this Obamacare employer mandate loophole. I can’t help but wonder if the President or his team noticed this conflict ahead of time, or if they failed – as usual – to notice yet another Obamacare problem in advance. My office has heard from a number of you concerned about the President’s executive announcement regarding immigration.  The overwhelming majority feel that: the President is acting outside of his authority with this executive action; this action is unfair to those who have legally immigrated to the United States; Congress should look into stripping funding for implementation of the executive action, etc. But in fairness, I should note that approximately 3% of those contacting us about this have done so to voice their support for the President’s action. Discussions regarding President Obama’s immigration plans and how to most appropriately respond are ongoing.  Please know I will be reviewing our options closely, keeping in mind the laws already on the books as well as my responsibility to support and defend the Constitution. “The Most Expensive Regulation Ever” When this Administration or others have controversial and/or bad news to share, they often release it on Friday afternoons or before holidays in an effort to minimize negative attention.  This is what is known as a ‘news dump.’  As an example, you may remember that shortly before Independence Day last year the Obama Administration announced it would be delaying for one year the controversial ‘employer mandate’ built into Obamacare. More recently, the day before this last Thanksgiving – November 26, 2014 – President Obama’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced proposed changes to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ground-level ozone.  Yes, this is another line of attack on fossil fuels, particularly coal.  This is in addition to new regulations that do not take effect until this summer as well as proposed new regulations currently in the comment period that will impact fossil fuels. According to POLITICO, these changes “… would lower the amount of ground-level ozone pollution that is considered healthy to breathe, which in turn could lead to costly new requirements for air pollution permits in much of the country.” National Association of Manufacturers President and Chief Executive Officer Jay Timmons (who served as a Chief of Staff to Governor and then Senator George Allen) said in response to the EPA’s announcement: “This new standard comes at the same time dozens of other new EPA regulations are being imposed that collectively place increased costs, burdens and delays on manufacturers, threaten our international competitiveness and make it nearly impossible to grow jobs.  Before the Obama Administration moves the goalposts with yet another set of requirements that will make it more difficult for manufacturers across the country, they need to allow existing ozone standards to be implemented and give time to American businesses to meet those already stringent and onerous requirements.”  He also said: “This new ozone regulation threatens to be the most expensive ever imposed on industry in America.” Interestingly, the White House in 2011 (before the 2012 Presidential elections) directed the EPA to withdraw a nearly final version of this rule.  The President at the time said he was taking this action in order to “underscore the importance of reducing regulatory burdens and regulatory uncertainty.” Seems to me these concerns are no less valid today than they were in 2011. This is another example of overreaching Obama EPA actions that must be stopped. As always, if you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671.  To reach my office by email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205201904/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/617,GOODLATTE & HENSARLING TO AG: WHY DOES JUSTICE DEPT. REQUIRE BANKS TO DONATE TO ACTIVIST GROUPS?,2014-11-25,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE & HENSARLING TO AG: WHY DOES JUSTICE DEPT. REQUIRE BANKS TO DONATE TO ACTIVIST GROUPS? WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and House Financial Services Chairman Jeb Hensarling (R-Tex.) wrote a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder requesting information about two questionable terms in the Justice Department’s recent mortgage-lending settlement agreements with two major banks. The Department’s most recent settlements with Bank of America and Citigroup required millions of dollars in minimum donations to activist groups from an approved list, which includes La Raza and NeighborWorks, which has been described as “fund(ing) a national network of left-wing community organizers operating in the mold of Acorn.” In addition, as an incentive for donations above the minimum to these groups, settling banks earn two dollars’ worth of credit against their Department-mandated consumer relief commitment for every one dollar donated. As stated in the letter, “[T]hese startling terms in the Justice Department’s two latest settlements make them look less like consumer relief and more like bank ‘shakedowns’ to benefit special interest groups.” Read more about the unprecedented terms of the Justice Department’s mortgage-lending settlements in the text of the letter to Attorney General Holder below: Dear Attorney General Holder:  We request information about the Justice Department’s mortgage-lending lawsuits and whether they actually deliver redress to consumers genuinely harmed. Relief for these consumers is long overdue, yet the Justice Department’s record settlements have left homeowners disappointed. It seems that the alleged victims are not the primary beneficiaries of these multi-billion dollar settlements.  Instead, the terms in the Justice Department’s two latest settlements look less like consumer relief and more like a scheme to funnel money to politically favored special interest groups. First, the settling banks must donate a minimum of $150 million to activist groups like La Raza and NeighborWorks, which funds a national network of community organizers.  Second, for each dollar donated above the minimum, banks earn two dollars’ worth of credit against their overall consumer relief commitment.  By contrast, direct forms of consumer relief, such as loan modifications, earn only dollar-for-dollar credit.  This makes donations to activist groups far more attractive to banks than providing direct relief to injured consumers.  As a result, the settlements appear to serve as a vehicle for funding activist groups rather than as a means of securing relief for consumers actually harmed. On July 14, 2014, the Justice Department announced a $7 billion mortgage-lending settlement with Citigroup that included $2.5 billion in “consumer relief.”  In its press release touting the settlement, the Department described the relief as “innovative” and as going beyond the “principal reductions and loan modifications . . . built into previous resolutions.” The details of this relief were contained in Annex 2 of the agreement.  Menu item 4F of the annex requires a minimum $10 million in donations to HUD-approved “housing counseling agencies,” which include La Raza and NeighborWorks.  Menu items 4D and 4E require an additional minimum $40 million in donations for housing-related organizations, including “legal aid” and community development “non-profits.” For every dollar donated above the $50 million minimum, Citigroup will earn two dollars’ worth of credit against its $2.5 billion consumer relief commitment.  By contrast, for direct forms of consumer relief, like principal forgiveness, the base credit is merely dollar-for-dollar. Nearly identical terms appear in the Department’s August 21, 2014 settlement with Bank of America (BoA).  This settlement, which the Department has described as “historic,” demands a minimum of $100 million in donations to housing-related organizations, including counseling agencies, “legal aid” organizations and community development “non-profits.”  For every dollar donated above the minimum, BoA’s credit against its overall $7 billion consumer relief obligation is two-for-one.  Again, the base credit for direct forms of consumer relief is just dollar-for-dollar. These terms appear unprecedented.  The Department’s November 2013 mortgage-lending settlement with J.P. Morgan Chase, for example, included only direct forms of consumer relief.  Certain previous agreements, including during the George W. Bush Administration, provided that any funds remaining after all consumer injury had been redressed could go to third-party groups.  But that is far different from earmarking mandatory minimum donations to activist groups as central provisions of settlements, and giving banks twice the incentive to funnel settlement funds to third-party groups instead of to harmed consumers. In light of these concerns, we request that the Department conduct a briefing for the Judiciary and Financial Services Committees as soon as possible on the foregoing settlement terms and ask that you provide the following answers and information before the briefing and no later than December 9, 2014: Identify the individuals who were involved in making the decision to depart from the J.P. Morgan Chase settlement format and add the mandatory donations and two-for-one credit terms to the Citigroup and BoA settlements, and in the subsequent implementation of those settlement terms. Were non-profits that stood to gain involved in any manner in that decision?  If so, which ones and to what extent? Were any White House officials involved in the decision?  If so, who and to what extent? Did Citigroup or BoA ever receive any formal or informal guidance from the Department or the White House regarding which particular groups should receive donations? Please provide all communications relating to what became the “Community Reinvestment and Neighborhood Stabilization” provisions in the Citigroup and BoA settlements.  Please also provide any communications discussing similar terms as part of the J.P. Morgan Chase settlement discussions. Thank you for your prompt attention to this request.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398368,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 11.24.14,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Giving Thanks, Attitudes are Contagious While there are many important national issues deserving discussion, this week is a time of Thanksgiving. We all have things for which we should be grateful.  But if you are like most, you or a loved one have likely experienced some trials and tribulations during the last year as well. I was recently reminded of this when my colleague, Congressman Alan Nunnelee (R-MS), returned to the House of Representatives.  While in Washington in early May, Congressman Nunnelee began experiencing nausea and fatigue.  Following consultation with a doctor, Congressman Nunnelee went to a hospital and underwent an MRI scan.  As a result of this scan, doctors found a small abnormality on the right side of his brain, which doctors ultimately confirmed was a small intracranial mass, a brain tumor. Congressman Nunnelee underwent surgery on June 9, and his doctors were able to successfully remove the mass.  However, as a result of a stroke he suffered during the surgery, Congressman Nunnelee experienced some complications including difficulty with his speech and mobility on his left side.  Congressman Nunnelee spent this summer recovering and undergoing regular therapy in order to improve both his speech and mobility.  Statements released by his office at the time indicate that his doctors were pleased with his progress, but confirmed that his follow-up treatment would require radiation and chemotherapy.  Following his treatment, he has returned to work in our nation’s capital. According to a June 20 statement from his office, Congressman Nunnelee communicated to his family and staff: “Attitudes are contagious, so you better make sure yours is worth catching.” What a positive, inspiring perspective. Congressman Nunnelee recently gave the opening prayer at one of the House Republicans’ regular meetings, quoting I Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I couldn’t help but reflect on this choice and on Congressman Nunnelee’s message that morning.  “I am glad the scripture in Thessalonians does not say to give thanks for all circumstances,” Congressman Nunnelee says, “because I would have a difficult time being thankful for a tumor or a stroke, much less both.  I have learned the way to approach the difficulty of stroke rehabilitation is to give thanks in all circumstances.” Though we may not be thankful for hardships such as tumors, strokes, etc., we ought to be thankful in all situations for our blessings and that with which we have been provided in order to deal with health scares and other tribulations. As Thanksgiving draws near, I am reminded of the many things for which I am grateful, including my wife, my children, and my health.  I am thankful to have the opportunity to serve our community, first in the state legislature and now in the halls of Congress.  I am deeply thankful in the Lord for these blessings and others bestowed upon me and my family, and for the blessings on this nation, where a man or woman can determine their fate by the sweat of their brow and their ingenuity.  This is true no matter what family you are born into or whom you are fortunate enough to know. In preparing this column, I looked into some of my books for additional guidance on Thanksgiving messages.  While doing so, I found the “Old 100th” as a hymn listed under ‘Thanksgiving’ in my 1952 Book of Common Prayer/Hymnal: Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. How very meaningful, the familiar words of the “Old 100th.” Like Congressman Nunnelee, many in the Ninth District have experienced losses that we are not thankful for, but we remain thankful in the Lord for the blessings that have been bestowed upon us.  To again borrow from Congressman Nunnelee, “I am thankful in this circumstance and pray you find yourself doing the same.” May God bless each and every one of you, and may God bless these United States.  Best wishes to you, your family, and your friends for a safe and happy Thanksgiving.   As always, if you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671.  To reach my office by email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398369,Ninth District Traveling Staff Office Hours for December,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Griffith’s Ninth District STAFF will be available at the following locations during the month of December.  In the event of inclement weather (heavy snow, sleet, icy rain, etc.), traveling office hours may be rescheduled to avoid putting constituents at risk.  Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions or to confirm that traveling hours are still in effect. December 3, 2014 Smyth County:     9:00 am – 11:00 am Town Council Chambers 138 West Main Street Marion, VA Covington:     10:00 am – 12:00 pm Covington City Hall City Hall Conference Room 333 W. Locust Street Covington, VA Craig County:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Craig County Administration Building 108 Court Street New Castle, VA Bristol:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bristol VA Public Library Upstairs Conference Room 701 Goode Street Bristol, VA December 5, 2014 Martinsville:   11:00 am – 1:00 pm NCI Room 106 – Classroom Building 30 Franklin Street Martinsville, VA Lee County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Lee County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room – Suite U101 33640 Main Street Jonesville, VA Norton:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Norton City Council Chambers 618 Virginia Avenue NW Norton, VA December 9, 2014 Giles County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Pearisburg Town Hall 112 Tazewell Street Pearisburg, VA Salem:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Salem Library 28 East Main Street Salem, VA December 10, 2014 Radford:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Radford Public Library Meeting Room 30 West Main Street Radford, VA Pulaski County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Pulaski County Library Meeting Room 60 3rd Street NW Pulaski, VA December 11, 2014 Grayson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Grayson County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room – Suite 206 129 Davis Street Independence, VA Russell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Southwest Virginia Technology Development Center 141 Highland Drive Lebanon, VA Tazewell County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bluefield Town Hall – Council Chambers 112 Huffard Drive Bluefield, VA Galax:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Galax Municipal Building Conference Room 111 E. Main Street Galax, VA December 12, 2014 Alleghany County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Clifton Forge Library Conference Room 535 Church Street Clifton Forge, VA Roanoke County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Roanoke Library Hollins Branch 6624 Peters Creek Road Roanoke, VA December 16, 2014 Tazewell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Richlands Town Hall 200 Washington Square Richlands, VA Buchanan County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Grundy Town Hall 1185 Plaza Drive Grundy, VA December 17, 2014 Henry County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bassett Historical Society 964 Fairystone Parkway Bassett, VA Bland County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bland County Courthouse Admin. Office Room 200 612 Main Street Bland, VA Wythe County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Wythe County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room 245 South 4th Street Wytheville, VA Patrick County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Patrick County Administration Building Conference Room 106 Rucker Street Stuart, VA December 18, 2014 Scott County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Community Services Building Community Room 190 Beech Street Gate City, VA December 19, 2014 Carroll County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Carroll County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room 605 – 1 Pine Street Hillsville, VA Dickenson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Dickenson Center for Education & Research 818 Happy Valley Drive Clintwood, VA Wise County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Big Stone Gap Federal Courthouse 3rd Floor Room 303 322 Wood Avenue E Big Stone Gap, VA Floyd County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Floyd County Library 321 W. Main Street Floyd, VA ** Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205201906/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/616,GOODLATTE: ROANOKE'S POFF BUILDING A 'HALLMARK IN WASTE',2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE: ROANOKE'S POFF BUILDING A 'HALLMARK IN WASTE' WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) today issued a Committee report outlining the findings of the Judiciary Committee’s thorough investigation into the mismanagement of taxpayer funds during the renovation of the Richard H. Poff Federal Building located in Roanoke, Virginia.  The Poff Federal Building houses several critical federal entities, including the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, the U.S. Marshals Service district headquarters, and the Department of Veterans Affairs Roanoke Regional Office. Chairman Goodlatte has aggressively sought answers from GSA regarding the cost and scope of this wasteful project. The House Judiciary Committee’s report documents the U.S. General Services Administration’s (GSA) mishandling of the Poff Building renovation from its failure to follow fundamental procedures designed to prevent government waste to its failure to properly plan and to anticipate and manage the project. The report also highlights GSA’s efforts to dodge concerns from the local community and from Congress.    Below are statements from Chairman Goodlatte and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-Pa.), the Committee with jurisdiction over the GSA. Chairman Goodlatte: “One simple phrase can sum up the renovation of the Poff Federal Building in Roanoke – it’s a hallmark in waste. In 2009, it was announced that nearly $51 million of taxpayer money would be spent to make the Poff Federal Building more energy efficient. However, the project has instead resulted in ballooning costs and an overall lack of transparency, unresponsiveness, and dismissal of the public’s concerns.  “As the Committee recently learned, problems with GSA’s responsiveness and management of facilities are not isolated. Issues at the Poff Federal Building in Roanoke are symptomatic of widespread deficiencies in GSA’s service and wasteful spending decisions throughout the nation.   “The report issued today clearly outlines the major issues with the project, including the ever increasing costs of the renovation, the lack of a thorough cost benefit analysis of the project, the process that GSA used to award contracts for the project, and the failure of GSA to meet the needs of the tenants. The Poff Federal Building is a prime example of the kind of wasteful spending in Washington that must be eliminated. It is critical that we continue to ensure that taxpayer money is spent wisely and that GSA is held accountable for this boondoggle.”  Chairman Shuster: “The Administration wasted millions of stimulus dollars in its rush to ‘green’ federal buildings without congressional input.  Chairman Goodlatte’s report chronicles the misguided spending and costly mistakes of the Administration’s stimulus program at a single courthouse in Virginia.  The General Services Administration can and should do better.” Key Findings of the House Judiciary Committee Report: GSA failed to properly plan and squandered millions of taxpayer dollars. GSA violated federal contracting law & undermined public confidence by foolishly offering to pay a maximum sum for the Poff project.   GSA’s misfeasance prevented the implementation of important security, building code, and life safety improvements. The Poff project repeatedly impacted the ability of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia to administer justice and negatively impacted the ability of the Roanoke Veterans Affairs Regional Office to serve veterans.  GSA attempted to avoid accountability by refusing to fully address questions from the Roanoke community, the press, and Virginia’s representatives in Washington, D.C. Additional Information: Click here to download a PDF copy of the report, “A Hallmark in Taxpayer Waste: The U.S. General Services Administration’s Mismanagement of Taxpayer Funds at Roanoke’s Poff Federal Building.”  In June, the Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet Subcommittee held a hearing on “GSA’s Failure to Meet the Needs of the Judiciary: A Case Study of Bureaucratic Negligence and Waste.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=549,Wittman Statement on the Resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Wittman Statement on the Resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel f t # e Washington, D.C., November 24, 2014 Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) today issued the following statement on the resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel: I thank Secretary Hagel for his many years of service to the nation and for his efforts on behalf of our men and women in uniform. While this is a time of transition at the helm of the Department of Defense, it is critical that we remain resolute in our efforts to stop the sequester from going into effect. We must have a responsible defense budget in place that is governed by strategy and maintains an unwavering commitment to our military's readiness to ensure our ability to respond to current and future threats. I urge the President to act swiftly to nominate a successor. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # # f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=550,CODEL Wittman Meets With King Abdullah of Jordan,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Representative Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today following the Congressional delegation meeting with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan: There is no question that ISIS must be destroyed and it is critical that the coalition of NATO partners and nations in the Middle East such as Jordan continue to work together to that end, Wittman said. Jordan plays a key role in the region by leading the effort among Sunni Arab nations to combat ISIS. Today's meeting with King Abdullah was very enlightening and will be useful in developing an understanding within Congress to use in establishing defense policy to defeat ISIS. I look forward to continued dialogue with King Abdullah during his future travel to the United States. In connection with a CODEL focused on oversight of operations against ISIS in the Middle East, Representative Rob Wittman led a Congressional delegation including Representative Madeleine Bordallo of Guam, Representative Dave Loebsack of Iowa, Representative Mike Coffman of Colorado, Representative Bill Flores of Texas, and Representative Reid Ribble of Wisconsin to Qatar, Afghanistan and Jordan. The Congressional delegation met with King Abdullah of Jordan to discuss regional security efforts and traveled to the Syrian border to gain a firsthand understanding of the Syrian refugee crisis and Jordanian efforts to combat ISIS. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=551,Wittman-Led Congressional Delegation Meets With Afghan Leadership,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Representative Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today regarding Congressional delegation meetings with newly-elected Afghan leadership: In connection with a CODEL focused on oversight of operations against ISIS in the Middle East, Representative Rob Wittman led a Congressional delegation including Representative Madeleine Bordallo of Guam, Representative Dave Loebsack of Iowa, Representative Mike Coffman of Colorado, Representative Bill Flores of Texas, and Representative Reid Ribble of Wisconsin to Qatar, Afghanistan and Jordan. In Afghanistan, the delegation met with President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Abdullah Abdullah to discuss the Bilateral Security Agreement which passed the lower house of the Afghan parliament during the meeting and was proudly announced to the delegation by President Ghani. The Status of Forces Agreement with NATO was also endorsed by the lower house of parliament. This was the first Congressional delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives to meet with Afghanistan's new leadership and congratulate them on the establishment of Afghanistan's first ever unity government and peaceful transition of government power, Wittman said. It is critical that dialogue between the leaders of our two countries continues to ensure thesafe and responsible withdrawal of our troops from Afghanistan and to meet the goals of strengthening Afghan forces, countering the threat of terrorism and improving security in the region. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205201909/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/614,GOODLATTE: PRESIDENT OBAMA ALL-IN AGAINST THE CONSTITUTION,2014-11-21,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE: PRESIDENT OBAMA ALL-IN AGAINST THE CONSTITUTION The House Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing on the President’s power grab when Congress returns WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) issued the statement below in advance of President Obama’s speech today on his unconstitutional immigration actions in Las Vegas, Nevada. When Congress returns after the Thanksgiving break, the House Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing on President Obama’s unconstitutional power grab on Tuesday, December 2, 2014. The time and witness list will be announced later. Chairman Goodlatte: “Last night, President Obama went all-in against the Constitution and today he is doubling-down on his lawlessness in Las Vegas of all places. Unfortunately for the American people, the President has ignored their opinions and forged ahead with his plan, creating a constitutional crisis and an untold number of consequences for the American people and legal immigrants. “When Congress returns in early December, the House Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing on the unconstitutionality of President Obama’s power grab. The stakes of inaction are high and Congress will use the best tools available to stop President Obama from implementing his unconstitutional plan.” Chairman Goodlatte issued a statement last night on President Obama’s unconstitutional, unilateral actions. Earlier this week, Chairman Goodlatte joined House Homeland Security Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) in sending a letter to President Obama demanding that he abandon his plan to change our immigration laws on his own. Additionally, Chairman Goodlatte’s op-ed on this subject was published in the Wall Street Journal this week.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205201912/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/615,EPA MUST ACT NOW TO REDUCE RFS,2014-11-21,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"EPA MUST ACT NOW TO REDUCE RFS WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following the Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement that the 2014 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) will not be finalized this year, Reps. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA), Jim Costa (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Steve Womack (R-AR) released the following statement: “These delays by the EPA are completely unacceptable. After nearly a year with no action on the proposed RFS for 2014, the EPA has decided to throw in the towel and punt the final decision until next year. It’s extremely disappointing that this decision on renewable fuel obligations for 2014 has taken so long and will not be resolved by the end of the year. How can the industry comply with a mandate that is released after they are already supposed to be in compliance? The longer stakeholders are forced to wait, the more uncertainty it creates in the marketplace. The EPA’s proposal for 2014, which included a reduction in the amount of ethanol blended into the fuel supply, was a positive step forward and acknowledged that the mandate is unworkable, detrimental to the environment, and price distorting to feedstock industries throughout the country. Action is needed now to reduce the ethanol mandate and provide much-needed relief. This issue needs to be addressed immediately, not several months into 2015.  Today’s action once again proves that the RFS is unworkable and that Congress must reform the RFS.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398367,Griffith Statement on Obama's Executive Action Announcement,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"In advance of President Obama’s remarks this evening regarding his plans to move on immigration via executive order, Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) today issued the following statement: “Reports indicate the foundation of President Obama’s legal theory behind his plans on immigration is the criminal law doctrine of prosecutorial discretion.  If these reports are true, the President through his executive actions is refusing, in a blanket form, to prosecute violators of the United States’ immigration laws.” “I question the authority to make a blanket decision regarding the prosecution of criminal laws, as opposed to making decisions in a specific individual’s case.  Further, prosecutorial discretion does not give authority to grant unprosecuted violators with privileges or benefits such as work permits.  Such benefits granted to unprosecuted violators may be in violation of the law.” “Additionally, if the President’s theory is in fact prosecutorial discretion, it does not mean that the violations the President is choosing to leave un-enforced are no longer crimes.  A subsequent Administration could choose to prosecute any or all of the people previously not prosecuted.  The President granting benefits to unprosecuted individuals will unintentionally create a registry of unprosecuted individuals which may be used by a subsequent Administration for prosecution.”  “There are a number of actions that the President could and should take regarding illegal immigration.  Among the actions outlined by U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) in a recent National Review Online article that the President has the authority to undertake but isn’t undertaking: completing and strengthening the southern border fence; tracking foreign visa holders via an exit-entry system; canceling visas to nations that will not take back its own citizens; stopping the issuance of child tax credits to illegal immigrants; targeting those cities that defy immigration law.” “The President should be defending America’s borders and enforcing our laws.  If he is serious about resolving the illegal immigration issue, why has he not taken the actions above for which he has the authority?” “President Obama should first work with Congress to stop the unfettered flow of illegal immigrants from around the world into our nation.  Then, working with Congress, we can find a long-term solution.  An unwillingness to deal with the problems at our borders and entry points indicates his current actions have more to do with politics than with seeking real solutions.” “I am very concerned by reports that later this evening President Obama will announce executive actions on immigration.  Over the next several weeks, I will be closely examining his actions and their legality.  I strongly encourage President Obama and his Administration to respect the Constitution, follow his oath of office, and fulfill his obligation to faithfully execute the laws of our country.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205212903/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/613,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA'S UNILATERAL, UNCONSTITUTIONAL IMMIGRATION ACTIONS",2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA'S UNILATERAL, UNCONSTITUTIONAL IMMIGRATION ACTIONS WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) issued the statement below following the announcement that President Obama will act unilaterally to change our immigration laws and shield five million unlawful immigrants from immigration enforcement.  Chairman Goodlatte: “It’s both perplexing and alarming that President Obama has decided to move forward with executive actions that he once said he didn’t have the constitutional power to take. The President’s decision to recklessly forge ahead with a plan to unilaterally change our immigration laws ignores the will of the American people and flouts the Constitution. The American people are deeply concerned about the direction of our country and went to the polls earlier this month to overwhelmingly reject the Obama Administration’s policies. Rather than listen to the American people and change course, President Obama is going rogue, doubling-down, and driving full speed towards a constitutional crisis. By assuming legislative power and ignoring the limitations placed on his authority, President Obama threatens to unravel our government’s system of checks and balances and imperils individual liberty.  “Additionally, the President’s shortsighted actions further set back any chance of enacting immigration reform. The debate in Congress over the past two years has shown that there is a willingness and need to reform our nation’s immigration system. While there are varying opinions on how to amend our immigration laws, one thing is clear: the President does not have the authority to change our immigration laws by executive decree. It’s disappointing that President Obama has refused to work with the new men and women Americans elected to represent them in Congress.  Since the President has acted outside the confines of his authority, I will work with my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to stop the President’s unconstitutional actions from being implemented.” Chairman Goodlatte joined House Homeland Security Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) yesterday in sending a letter to President Obama demanding that he abandon his unconstitutional plan to act unilaterally on immigration. Additionally, Chairman Goodlatte’s op-ed on this subject was published in yesterday’s Wall Street Journal.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141123073736/http://goodlatte.house.gov:80/press_releases/612,"GOODLATTE, MCCAUL DEMAND PRESIDENT OBAMA RESPECT THE CONSTITUTION, ABANDON UNILATERAL PLAN TO MOVE ON IMMIGRATION",2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE, MCCAUL DEMAND PRESIDENT OBAMA RESPECT THE CONSTITUTION, ABANDON UNILATERAL PLAN TO MOVE ON IMMIGRATION WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Bob Goodlatte, R-Virginia, chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary, and Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, demand President Barack Obama abandon his plan to bypass Congressional authority and move on immigration via executive order. “Instead of proceeding with ill-advised executive action, we implore you to work with Congress to enact legislation to address our broken immigration system,” the Chairmen said in a letter to President Obama. “We strongly urge you to respect the Constitution and abandon any unconstitutional, unilateral executive actions on immigration. Let’s secure the border, enforce our immigration laws in the interior of the United States, and build a broad consensus for immigration reform. Otherwise, as the chairmen of the committees with oversight over border security and our nation’s immigration laws, we will be forced to use the tools afforded to Congress by the Constitution to stop your administration from successfully carrying out your plan.” The signed letter to President Barack Obama is available HERE. The text of the letter to President Barack Obama follows: President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President, We join our fellow members of Congress in expressing our disappointment in your continued efforts to bypass Congressional authority. The latest indications that you will take executive action on immigration later this week are a slap in the face to the American people and the Constitution. Earlier this month, the American people rejected your policies you said were on the ballot and voted to change the way Washington operates.  According to several recent polls, the American people want you to refrain from acting on your own to change our immigration laws. They want you to abide by the Constitution and work with the newly elected Congress to address our nation’s greatest challenges, both domestically and internationally. The Constitution is clear that it is Congress’ duty to write our laws and, once they are enacted, it is the president’s responsibility to enforce them. Something as important as changing our immigration laws cannot be forced by unilateral action by the president. That’s not the way our system of government works. In the past, we have seen the surge in illegal immigration that comes when amnesty is promised and the enforcement of our immigration laws is ignored. With more than 11 million unlawful immigrants already in the United States, the answer to our immigration crisis is not to invite more illegal immigration. The answer is to secure the border and enforce our immigration laws. Executive action will simply perpetuate and exacerbate a cycle of unlawful entry into the United States. This was true under the 1986 amnesty, it has been true under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, and it has been true under your administration’s policy to not follow the immigration laws already on the books. Instead of proceeding with ill-advised executive action, we implore you to work with Congress to enact legislation to address our broken immigration system. We strongly urge you to respect the Constitution and abandon any unconstitutional, unilateral executive actions on immigration. Let’s secure the border, enforce our immigration laws in the interior of the United States, and build a broad consensus for immigration reform. Otherwise, as the chairmen of the committees with oversight over border security and our nation’s immigration laws, we will be forced to use the tools afforded to Congress by the Constitution to stop your administration from successfully carrying out your plan. Sincerely, Michael McCaul Chairman House Homeland Security Committee Bob Goodlatte          Chairman House Judiciary Committee",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205212906/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/611,GOODLATTE ELECTED HOUSE JUDICIARY CHAIRMAN,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE ELECTED HOUSE JUDICIARY CHAIRMAN WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) issued the following statement after the House Republican Conference voted to confirm the GOP Steering Committee’s recommendation that he continue to serve as Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee in the 114th Congress. Chairman Goodlatte: “I am honored to have been chosen to continue my service as Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.  The Judiciary Committee has jurisdiction over some of the most important issues facing our nation, including Constitutional freedoms and civil liberties, legal and regulatory reform, competition and antitrust laws, terrorism and crime, immigration reform, and intellectual property protections.   “Over the last two years the House Judiciary Committee has examined many of these issues while advancing an agenda focused on restoring economic prosperity to America.  I am proud of the numerous legislative accomplishments we had in the 113th Congress, including the House passage of the bipartisan USA Freedom Act, ending bulk collection of data by the government and reforming our nation’s intelligence-gathering programs, the bipartisan Innovation Act, which combats the problem of abusive patent litigation, numerous bills aimed at reducing burdensome regulations that are stifling economic growth and legislation to require mandatory sanctions for attorneys who file frivolous lawsuits. “In the 114th Congress, we intend to build on these successes and will continue to pursue a pro-growth agenda that is focused on creating jobs and making America more competitive and free.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=548,Wittman Urges Against Executive Action on Immigration,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Representative Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today regarding reports of the President's rumored plans to issue an executive order on immigration: Executive Branch overreach is one of the main concerns I hear from folks in the First District. I am alarmed by reports that the President plans to act unilaterally and attempt to change immigration law through executive action."" Our founders established our system of checks and balances for a reason, and in 2013 the President himself acknowledged that he is not the emperor of the United States.' In a discussion about immigration policy during the same year, the President said that there is a path to get this done and that is through Congress.' The President signaled recently that he was ready to work with Congress on passing responsible fixes to our failing immigration system. This must include securing the border, enforcing existing law, and fixing the broken visa system before we can effectively address undocumented immigrants or pursue any other immigration reform efforts. I do not support amnesty in any shape or form. I urge the President to honor his word and not circumvent the legislative process. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205224940/http://wolf.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wolf-testamony-at-pto-telework-hearing,Wolf Testimony At PTO Telework Hearing,2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Frank Wolf,W000672,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  – Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA), chairman of the House Appropriations subcommittee that funds the Department of Commerce and one of the leading advocates in Congress for telework, gave the following testimony today at a joint hearing on the Patent and Trademark Office’s telework program:      “Good afternoon.  Thank you for allowing me to testify today.  “I am pleased to say I am a huge advocate of telework.  Time and again I have said there is nothing magical about strapping yourself into a metal box and driving to an office.   If you have a job that is conducive to teleworking, then you should be given that opportunity.  Many members of my staff regularly telework.  Studies show telework increases worker productivity, reduces traffic and helps the environment.  It’s also a quality of life issue.  Less time sitting in traffic – particularly in this region – means more time doing what you want to do, from coaching Little League to volunteering at your church to just spending more time with your family. “The series of articles in The Washington Post over the last several months detailing problems with the Patent and Trademark Office’s telework program are alarming.  Secretary Pritzker is well aware of my displeasure.  She and I have talked on the phone about the issue and I also have been in written communication with her.  “I want to enter my August 11, 2014 letter to her into the hearing record.  It clearly states my unhappiness with PTO and ends with this sentence:  ‘I encourage you to take immediate action to hold these fraudulent employees accountable and send a clear message that this abuse will no longer be tolerated.’ “I also want to submit to the hearing record my September 15, 2014 letter to the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia urging him to open a criminal investigation into possible fraudulent activities at PTO with regard to time and attendance.  “To say I am extremely disappointed that PTO failed to manage its telework program and, in general, to provide adequate managerial oversight throughout the organization would be an understatement.  Compounding this are attempts, I believe, to minimize the problems. “While I am confident the vast majority of people working at PTO are honest, hardworking federal employees, there are some, unfortunately, who are abusing the telework program.  They need to be fired.  In all honesty, they should already have been dismissed.   “I firmly believe if PTO and the Commerce Department fails to terminate employees who abused the system, other telework programs across the federal government could very well be in jeopardy.  It is imperative that PTO identify any misconduct and management lapses, and work to put in place systems to ensure that this does not happen in the future.  “I understand that some mid-level managers at PTO feel like their hands are tied, but there are certain things that can be done to ensure that staff are actually working their 80 hours a pay period.  I also understand that PTO has the capability to know if their employees are in the building or are working on their computers, but that these tools are not used.  “I also would like to point out that these abuses weren’t just perpetrated by telework employees, but that other employees who report every day to the PTO headquarters building in Alexandria have also been gaming time and attendance through the system.  “I understand PTO has brought in the National Academy of Public Administration to review its telework program.  This is a positive first step but it needs to be required to report back to these two committees. “NAPA, as you know, was chartered by Congress to assist federal, state, and local governments in improving their effectiveness, efficiency and accountability.  I have enlisted NAPA on multiple occasions during my tenure as chairman of the Commerce-Justice-Science Appropriations subcommittee.  NAPA played a huge role in the transformation of the FBI following the 9/11 attacks.  I asked NAPA to work with the Department of Commerce to study the effects of offshoring on the U.S. workforce.  In 2013, NAPA worked with NASA to review its security practices.  “NAPA does good work.  It is independent and non-partisan.  It would bring a fresh set of eyes to the problem and provide a thorough review of PTO’s telework program and make recommendations to return it to the model program it once was.   “Again, I appreciate the opportunity to testify today.  This is an important issue and Congress has a clear role in providing oversight.  Moreover, I think telework has an important role to play in improving morale, improving productivity, cutting rent and other overhead costs and alleviating traffic congestion.  But only if those who participate in these programs follow appropriate – and effective – management guidelines.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398366,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 11.17.14,2014-11-17,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Keystone XL Pipeline – Solutions On Friday, November 14, the House of Representatives again passed legislation (H.R. 5682) to approve the application for the Keystone XL pipeline, which has been slow-walked by President Obama and the State Department for more than six years.  This is despite other pipeline projects requiring a Presidential Permit having taken 18 to 24 months to review and approve. The House has now voted nine times to advance this landmark jobs and energy project.  31 House Democrats voted in favor of this bill, and the Senate is now expecting to consider a similar measure. At a recent press conference in Myanmar, President Obama is reported as having said that his position hasn’t changed on the Keystone pipeline.  As far as I am aware, however, he has not taken an opinion publicly, only saying that the proposed pipeline should be studied more.  According to the New York Times, the President said in a major speech on the environment in the summer of 2013 that “…he would approve the pipeline only if it would not ‘significantly exacerbate’ the problem of carbon pollution.  He said the pipeline’s net effects on the climate would be ‘absolutely critical’ to his decision.” Of course, the State Department in late January found – again – that the proposed Keystone XL pipeline would not significantly worsen carbon pollution.  And yet the President has not made a decision. The pipeline has been studied, and the facts are in.  It is time to build Keystone XL pipeline, creating jobs and a more energy-independent North America. The House knows a solution to create jobs and energy is to work with our friends in Canada, and we have voted repeatedly to do so.  Because there is a runoff election in Louisiana, the Senate may finally join the House in agreeing to this solution for jobs and energy.  Then we’ll see what the real opinion of the President is when he gets his chance to use his pen and veto this pro-jobs bill. Obama Makes “Wimpy” Deal with China Remember “Wimpy” from Popeye, who would gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today? “In a surprise announcement Wednesday in Beijing, Mr. Obama and President Xi Jinping of China, the biggest emitter of carbon dioxide, released their targets for cutting greenhouse-gas emissions more than a decade down the road,” reports the Wall Street Journal.  “Under the proposals, Chinese emissions of carbon dioxide would peak by around 2030, while the U.S. would cut emissions by more than a quarter between 2005 and 2025.” In other words, China is saying it will gladly cut the increase in its carbon footprint in a couple of decades in exchange for the United States enacting policies today that will continue damaging our economy. And in 2030, new Chinese leadership may well decide this non-binding agreement is not to their liking. Soon-to-be Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said of the proposals, “…as I read the agreement, [it] requires the Chinese to do nothing at all for 16 years while these carbon regulations are creating havoc in my state and other states around the country.” I agree with him and others saying that this agreement is just the opening up of a new front on the Obama Administration’s war on affordable, reliable energy.  The President’s policies are already hurting jobs and the American people.  Mr. President, do you really need to add insult to injury by pretending the Chinese will curb the increase in their carbon output? I will continue fighting these policies, and will fight to rein in the Environmental Protection Agency.  I will support legislation that will help American businesses create jobs. Obamacare – An Update According to The Hill, health insurance premium data provided to the Administration by June 30 was finally released on Friday, November 14.  That’s right – they had it for four months and let the public see it less than 12 hours before Obamacare open enrollment began.  Not much time to review before trying to buy Obamacare insurance, is it? Further, data shows premiums are going up for most Virginians. In other words, if you like your Obamacare plan and wish to keep it, you may have to pay more in order to do so. President Obama said last month that his policies were on the ballot in the November midterm elections.  Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) said earlier this year about Obamacare, “I believe it’s a winner.” However, many Americans – myself included – strongly disagree. As always, if you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141115200338/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/610,GOODLATTE: NEW OBAMA ADMINISTRATION POLICY IS A GOVERNMENT-SANCTIONED BORDER SURGE,2014-11-14,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE: NEW OBAMA ADMINISTRATION POLICY IS A GOVERNMENT-SANCTIONED BORDER SURGE WASHINGTON, D.C. – The State Department and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced that certain aliens – lawful permanent residents and those with temporary protected status, parole, withholding of removal, deferred action, and deferred enforced departure – will be able to petition for their unmarried children under the age of 21 and their current spouse (if they live with the child) to be considered for in-country refugee processing. If they do not meet the refugee requirements under the law, they can then be considered for parole into the United States, a tool that is, even according to the Administration itself, meant to be used sparingly on a case-by-case basis. To qualify, the alien’s family must be in Honduras, Guatemala, or El Salvador. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) issued the statement below criticizing the Obama Administration’s new policy.  Chairman Goodlatte: “The policy announced by the Obama Administration today is simply a government-sanctioned border surge. Under this abusive new policy, unlawful immigrants in the United States, once they are granted executive amnesty by the President, can now rely on the Obama Administration to bring their child, and possibly their spouse, who are in Central America to our country. Rather than take the steps necessary to end the crisis at the border, the Obama Administration perpetuates it by abusing a legal tool meant to be used sparingly to bring people to the United States and instead applying it to the masses in Central America.  “President Obama continues to take actions that reward people for breaking our laws, which only encourage more to do the same. If President Obama moves forward with granting even more unlawful immigrants legal status, as he is expected to do as soon as next week, the policy announced today could open Pandora’s box, allowing potentially even more people to come to the United States. This is bad policy and undermines the integrity of our immigration system.”  According to the USCIS website, “humanitarian parole is used sparingly to bring someone who is otherwise inadmissible into the United States for a temporary period of time due to a compelling emergency.” Additionally, “USCIS may grant parole temporarily to anyone applying for admission into the United States based on urgent humanitarian reasons or if there is a significant public benefit” and “for a period of time that corresponds with the length of the emergency or humanitarian situation.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141115200341/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/609,GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY'S SECRET SERVICE REVIEW,2014-11-13,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY'S SECRET SERVICE REVIEW WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) issued the statement below following the release of an internal Department of Homeland Security review on the events of September 19, 2014, when Omar Gonzalez scaled the north fence and ran through the unlocked doors of the White House. Chairman Goodlatte: “The Department of Homeland Security’s review of the mid-September security breach at the White House reads as a comedy of errors by the U.S. Secret Service and confirms that fundamental reform is needed to improve both the security of the White House grounds and staff training.  This report makes clear that everything that could have gone wrong that evening did.  Inadequate training, poor communication, and lax physical security at the White House led to this breach. We must ensure that the Secret Service has all of the tools, training, and resources necessary to protect the President, White House personnel, and the historic grounds.   “The Department’s review underscores the need for a thorough review of the agency’s protective mission and makes next week’s House Judiciary Committee oversight hearing on the Secret Service even more critical. I and the other members of the House Judiciary Committee are anxious to get to the bottom of these problems at the agency so that we prevent such security lapses from happening again in the future.”  On Wednesday, November 19th at 10:00 a.m., the House Judiciary Committee, which has primary jurisdiction over the United States Secret Service, will hold a public oversight hearing on the agency and will then close a portion of it to the public to discuss classified matters. Acting Director Joseph Clancy will testify before the Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=546,Wittman Statement Following Hearing on ISIL Strategy,2014-11-13,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. -Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1), House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee Chairman, released the following statement after Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and General Martin Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, testified before the House Armed Services Committee about the strategy of the United States in dealing with the terrorist group ISIL: The testimony by Secretary Hagel and General Dempsey illustrated the significant dangers posed by ISIL and also highlighted the challenges associated with that effort in terms of U.S. involvement. I continue to believe that Congress has a role to play in providing authorization of an extended military effort against ISIL, and that the President must also present to Congress his broader strategy for combatting extremism around the world. There is no question that these perpetrators of such barbarism must be destroyed. At the same time, the hearing reinforced the need for Congress to avert the impending defense budget cuts known as sequestration. I asked General Dempsey for his assessment on where our military will be if sequestration and reduced OCO funding are allowed to take effect, and he answered, We will be less ready than at any time in my forty-year career.' General Dempsey also indicated that he estimates the current state of security affairs will continue for the next generation. In other words, the world is not getting any safer. This is why we must have a responsible defense budget that is governed by strategy. I believe that an unwavering commitment to our military's readiness today is absolutely critical for ensuring our ability to respond to threats tomorrow, and to maintain our ability to project power around the world. The sequester has got to be eliminated. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398364,Griffith Statement Honoring America's Veterans,2014-11-11,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) today issued the following statement honoring America’s veterans for their sacrifice and dedication to our country: “I remain deeply grateful for America’s veterans and their efforts to keep our country the greatest nation, preserving and protecting the freedoms we hold so dear.   May God bless our veterans and these United States.” “Veterans Day is a time set aside for our country to honor America’s veterans, past and present, for their service and dedication.  Whether or not they saw combat, whether they served overseas or at home,  we can never fully repay the debt of gratitude we owe those who have worn the uniform of the United States for their willingness to sacrifice life or limb.” “Every November, I am reminded of the fact that Veterans Day was established following the end of World War I, which many hoped would be the last conflict of this nature.  Unfortunately, as we know, they were wrong about that.” “As I reflect on Veterans Day and on World War I, I think about my great-Uncle Jim.  When I was a boy, I would sit, fascinated, listening to stories told by Uncle Jim and others.  Uncle Jim was one of those brave Americans drafted into the United States Armed Forces during World War I.  However, before his ship docked in England, the First Armistice was signed, ending the fighting and marking a victory for the Allied forces.  He made the trip, but he didn’t see combat.” “It took months for Uncle Jim and his fellow troops to return to the United States. But upon his return, he couldn’t find his gold pocket watch.  He looked and looked, and just couldn’t locate it.  Eventually, Uncle Jim said, his family confessed to him that they had melted his pocket watch down and made it into jewelry, having resigned themselves to thinking that he wouldn’t return from the war alive.” ""Not all who serve in our Armed Forces face direct fire from our enemies.  Others, while willing to face fire, are needed either in support roles or, like Uncle Jim, their 'boat' arrives too late.  But all make sacrifices.  Some give their lives.  All give up time with friends and family.  And others give up things that don't seem quite as important but which are significant to them, such as a gold pocket watch.  And to all who have made those sacrifices, I say thank you."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398363,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 11.10.14,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"25 Years Without the “Iron Curtain” As a student of history, I feel it important to note the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, described by former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill as an “Iron Curtain” dividing Europe.  Much of the population doesn’t remember this – they were either too young or not yet born.  But for roughly 30 years, I was a part of a generation that had lived with the threat of the Soviet Union and nuclear war. I went to college with a student whose father had escaped from Hungary during the Hungarian Revolution of 1956.  As a boy, I witnessed the Czechoslovakian Uprising of 1968. Why did they fight?  Why did they want to be free, whether in Hungary, Czechoslovakia, or East Germany?  Because they wanted the liberty and the freedom that we have here in these United States.  They wanted the prosperity that a generally capitalistic society could give them, as opposed to what resulted from communism or strict socialism. Let us not forget: no matter how appealing the goals of those two economic systems may be, those systems never function as they are intended to. How are we in the United States able to maintain our society and our freedoms in the face of so many threats from around the world – the threats posed by Soviet Union in my younger days, the threats today posed by others?  It is through the continued desire of our people to be free, and the ability of our military to keep outside forces from dominating our country.  I thank everyone who speaks up for American freedom and our God-given liberties and rights.  And particularly during this week where we celebrate Veterans Day, I thank each and every veteran who served in order to defend those rights. To watch the Berlin Wall come down, knowing that an imprisoned people were now free, was a joyous occasion.  “The fall of the Wall has shown us that dreams can come true,” German Chancellor Angela Merkel said at a November 9 event commemorating the fall of the Berlin Wall.  “Nothing has to stay the way it is, however big the hurdles are.” The Supreme Court and Obamacare As you remember, I called on the Obama Administration to release 2015 health insurance rates by Tuesday, October 28 – a week before the recent elections – to increase transparency and ensure that the American people were not kept in the dark for political reasons.  Unfortunately, the Administration did not do this. Instead, on Sunday, November 9, they announced that people could begin viewing and comparing rates on the Obamacare website starting Monday, November 10.  For those who opt in or are forced onto Obamacare, open enrollment begins five days later on November 15.  Not much time to study the options.  Of course, in many parts of rural Virginia, there aren’t many choices. Jonathan Gruber, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology who has been referred to as Obamacare’s “chief architect,” said last year, “Lack of transparency is a huge political advantage.”  Apparently, the Obama Administration hasn’t changed their feelings about transparency or they would have given us the insurance rates before now.  Gruber went on to say, “And basically, call it the stupidity of the American voter or whatever, but basically that was really, really critical for the thing to pass.” Many people are of the view that Obamacare’s legality is settled.  However, given several unresolved challenges, this is not necessarily the case. On Friday, November 7, it was announced that the Supreme Court has agreed to hear King v. Burwell, a case the interpretation of the health care law as it relates to Obamacare subsidies.   As summarized by the Washington Post, “The question in this challenge is whether the subsidies should be available to all Americans who qualify or only to those who purchase insurance through exchanges ‘established by the state,’” with challengers arguing that the Administration is violating the text of the law by providing subsidies in federally run exchanges in states that have chosen not to set up their own exchanges. In fact, Jonathan Gruber referenced above said in 2012, “If you’re a state and you don’t set up an exchange, that means your citizens don’t get their tax credits.” Of course, Gruber has since said that phrase was “a mistake.”  Will the Supreme Court agree with his original statement and rule against the Obama Administration?  A decision should come next spring. As always, if you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141115200448/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/608,GOODLATTE: POTUS' REGULATORY APPROACH WOULD LEAVE CONSUMERS WITH FEWER CHOICES & HIGHER PRICES,2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE: POTUS' REGULATORY APPROACH WOULD LEAVE CONSUMERS WITH FEWER CHOICES & HIGHER PRICES Goodlatte: “President Obama’s Regulatory Approach Would Leave Consumers with Fewer Choices and Higher Prices, the Antithesis of Net Neutrality” WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) sent a letter today to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on the issue of net neutrality. In the letter, Chairman Goodlatte challenges the notion that regulating the Internet is the most effective way to achieve net neutrality and protect consumers from discriminatory conduct. The letter explains why vigorous enforcement of our nation’s antitrust laws is a superior approach to promoting an open and free Internet, including the fact than an antitrust approach allows maximum flexibility and innovation in the marketplace rather than a one-size-fits-all government mandate. In addition, Chairman Goodlatte issued the following comment in response to statements released today by President Obama and FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler on net neutrality: Chairman Goodlatte: “Today, President Obama called on the FCC to impose a decades-old regulatory structure on one of the most dynamic and competitive marketplaces in history, the Internet. This approach is of questionable legality and would significantly diminish innovation on the Internet, investment in its infrastructure and the judgment of the free market would be replaced with the decisions of a government regulator. In short, President Obama’s regulatory approach would leave consumers with fewer choices and higher prices, the antithesis of net neutrality.  “Regulations designed for old, monopolistic long-distance telephone lines would have disastrous results on the Internet. A better way to address issues of net neutrality is to turn to our nation’s time-tested antitrust laws. These laws have consistently demonstrated their ability to prevent discriminatory and anti-competitive conduct.  “I urge Chairman Wheeler to examine the history of the Internet and how the free market has enhanced its rapid growth, the record from the Judiciary Committee’s recent hearing on whether antitrust law or regulation is more effective at protecting consumers and innovation on the Internet, and reports from the Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission—the two antitrust enforcement agencies—that vigorous enforcement of antitrust laws are the most efficient way to achieve an open and competitive Internet.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141115200449/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/607,GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA'S NOMINEE FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL,2014-11-07,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA'S NOMINEE FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) released the following statement on President Obama’s intent to nominate Loretta Lynch as the next United States Attorney General.  Chairman Goodlatte:  “Tomorrow President Obama intends to announce the nomination of Loretta Lynch, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, as the next United States Attorney General. If the Senate approves her appointment, Ms. Lynch would assume the role of the nation’s top law enforcement officer, a responsibility that requires the highest levels of integrity, a commitment to enforcing our nation’s laws, and a dedication to protecting the American people from emerging national security threats. The current Attorney General, Eric Holder, has repeatedly demonstrated a lack of commitment to enforcing the laws, but more fundamentally, a lack of respect for the constitutional separation of powers. Should my colleagues in the Senate decide to confirm Ms. Lynch as the next Attorney General, I look forward to working collaboratively with her to fully enforce our laws and safeguard our national security.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=547,"Scott, Forbes, Wittman, & Rigell Commend Navy Decision to Consolidate Military Sealift Command at Norfolk",2014-11-06,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Scott, Forbes, Wittman, & Rigell Commend Navy Decision to Consolidate Military Sealift Command at Norfolk f t # e Washington, D.C., November 6, 2014 Washington, D.C. Representatives Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-3), Randy Forbes (VA-4), Rob Wittman (VA-1) and Scott Rigell (VA-2) issued the following joint statement on the announcement by the United States Navy that it intends to consolidate the headquarters of its Military Sealift Command from the Washington Navy Yard to Naval Station Norfolk by the end of Fiscal Year 2019: This announcement from the Navy is welcome news for Hampton Roads. It is estimated that more than 400 civilian personnel and 52 active duty personnel will relocate to our region. This action is also an important strategic decision by the Navy. For the last several years, the headquarters for the Military Sealift Command has been split between Washington, D.C. and Naval Station Norfolk. This consolidation will help our Navy streamline its processes while also saving taxpayers money from the reduced costs of operating a single headquarters location. We look forward to welcoming the men and women attached to this important command to Hampton Roads. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398361,Ninth District Traveling Staff Office Hours for November,2014-11-03,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Griffith’s Ninth District STAFF will be available at the following locations during the month of November.  In the event of inclement weather (heavy snow, sleet, icy rain, etc.), traveling office hours may be rescheduled to avoid putting constituents at risk.  Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions or to confirm that traveling hours are still in effect. November 5, 2014 Smyth County:     10:00 am – 12:00 pm Town Council Chambers 138 West Main Street Marion, VA Covington:     10:00 am – 12:00 pm Covington City Hall City Hall Conference Room 333 W. Locust Street Covington, VA Craig County:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Craig County Administration Building 108 Court Street New Castle, VA Bristol:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bristol VA Public Library Upstairs Conference Room 701 Goode Street Bristol, VA November 7, 2014 Martinsville:   11:00 am – 1:00 pm NCI Room 106 – Classroom Building 30 Franklin Street Martinsville, VA Lee County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Lee County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room – Suite U101 33640 Main Street Jonesville, VA Norton:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Norton City Council Chambers 618 Virginia Avenue NW Norton, VA November 12, 2014 Radford:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Radford Public Library Meeting Room 30 West Main Street Radford, VA Pulaski County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Pulaski County Library Meeting Room 60 3rd Street NW Pulaski, VA November 13, 2014 Grayson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Grayson County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room – Suite 206 129 Davis Street Independence, VA Russell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Southwest Virginia Technology Development Center 141 Highland Drive Lebanon, VA Tazewell County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bluefield Town Hall – Council Chambers 112 Huffard Drive Bluefield, VA Galax:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Galax Municipal Building Conference Room 111 E. Main Street Galax, VA November 14, 2014 Alleghany County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Clifton Forge Library Conference Room 535 Church Street Clifton Forge, VA Roanoke County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Roanoke Library Hollins Branch 6624 Peters Creek Road Roanoke, VA November 18, 2014 Giles County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Pearisburg Town Hall 112 Tazewell Street Pearisburg, VA Tazewell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm American Legion Building 226 Central Avenue Tazewell, VA Buchanan County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Grundy Town Hall 1185 Plaza Drive Grundy, VA Salem:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Salem Library 28 East Main Street Salem, VA November 19, 2014 Henry County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bassett Historical Society 3964 Fairystone Parkway Bassett, VA Bland County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bland County Courthouse Admin. Office Room 200 612 Main Street Bland, VA Wythe County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Wythe County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room 245 South 4th Street Wytheville, VA Patrick County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Patrick County Administration Building Conference Room 106 Rucker Street Stuart, VA  November 20, 2014 Scott County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Community Services Building Community Room 190 Beech Street Gate City, VA Wise County:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Big Stone Gap Federal Courthouse 3rd Floor Room 303 332 Wood Avenue E Big Stone Gap, VA  November 21, 2014 Carroll County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Carroll County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room 605 – 1 Pine Street Hillsville, VA Dickenson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Dickenson Center for Education & Research 818 Happy Valley Drive Clintwood, VA Wise County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Big Stone Gap Federal Courthouse 3rd Floor Room 303 322 Wood Avenue E Big Stone Gap, VA Floyd County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Floyd County Library 321 W. Main Street Floyd, VA November 25, 2014 Pulaski County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Dublin Town Hall Route 100, 1 mile North of I-81 Dublin, VA ** Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398362,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 11.3.14,2014-11-03,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Making Your Voice Heard As you know, tomorrow is 2014 midterm election day.  No matter what your political views are, if you believe in our Republic based on Democratic principles, it is your duty to vote.  Polling places will be open on election day from 6am to 7pm.  You may locate your polling place here on the Virginia Department of Elections’ voter information website. Save the Republic – End the Modern Filibuster Rule As I write this column, control of the Senate has not yet been determined.  On running the government efficiently, it might not matter which party wins the majority if the Senate rules are not changed.   The modern filibuster rule requires a super majority in order to make a decision on any issue of significance.  A Republic based on Democratic principles cannot long survive if the vast majority of issue legislation requires a super majority in order to advance. The historic filibuster rule required 60 votes to stop debate if a senator was standing in the well of the Senate debating the bill, as in the famous movie Mr. Smith Goes to Washington or as Senators Rand Paul (R-KY) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) did last year.  As I have written before, starting in the 1970’s, a senator can “filibuster” by merely making a request.  This is generally called a “hold.”  This means that almost every issue can be delayed or stopped from being acted on at the request of a single senator.  Once the “hold” by a senator has been placed on a bill, it then requires a super majority of 60 votes to end the debate. This is not a partisan issue.  Both Democrats and Republicans have used the modern filibuster rule to stall legislative policy that a majority might otherwise support.  I strongly believe that this modern filibuster rule is a threat to the long-term stability of the Republic.  The Founding Fathers never intended for a significant portion of the Senate’s business to be blocked by a minority.  I am reminded that this country long ago rejected South Carolina Senator John C. Calhoun’s theory of the tyranny of the majority.   Should the Senate remain in the hands of the Democrats, I fully realize that the filibuster reform I am advocating would result in more Democrat-passed bills coming to the House.  But that is the way a democratic-republican form of government is supposed to work. As laid out in Thomas Jefferson’s Manual of Parliamentary Practice, each legislative house ought to determine policy for itself, independent of the other branch.  If that were not the case, we might as well have one legislative chamber as opposed to two. Many Americans are frustrated with Congress – rightfully so.  A “Do-Nothing Congress,” some say.  But it is important to realize that the modern filibuster rule is a significant part of the problem.  There are 387 House-passed bills dealing with issues that are stalled in the Senate.  Many of these bills are bipartisan, but all deserve to be considered.  I have no problem with a Senator taking to the floor for a traditional filibuster should they object to a bill under consideration.  But I do have a problem with the current system, in essence, requiring a super majority.  This system undermines the noble principles upon which the nation was founded. The American people are deserving of a government that works.  I strongly believe that eliminating the modern filibuster rule will allow more bills to be voted on and, thus, more compromises would be reached.   In other words, if you don’t discuss a bill, you can never find the common ground that leads to resolution. This is an important issue, and I feel it is important that I make my case in writing prior to knowing who wins control of the Senate this year.  So that everyone knows, for me, this is not about party politics.  It is about making the system work as it was intended.   I strongly believe our democratic-republican form of government, though not perfect, is the best system yet devised by man.  If we are to preserve this system, we must end the modern filibuster rule, which is an aberration from the principles on which we were founded.  Continued adherence to this rule will mean a continued loss of the trust of the American people in their contract with Washington to govern. As always, if you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030154553/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/606,GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON INTERNAL STATE DEPARTMENT DOCUMENT OUTLINING PROPOSAL TO TRANSPORT EBOLA-INFECTED NON-CITIZENS TO THE U.S. FOR TREATMENT,2014-10-29,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON INTERNAL STATE DEPARTMENT DOCUMENT OUTLINING PROPOSAL TO TRANSPORT EBOLA-INFECTED NON-CITIZENS TO THE U.S. FOR TREATMENT WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) issued the statement below following the release of an internal State Department document outlining a proposal to transport non-U.S. citizens infected with Ebola to the United States for treatment. Chairman Goodlatte: “It’s alarming that senior Obama Administration officials so vehemently denied the existence of any plans to transport non-U.S. citizens infected with Ebola to the United States for treatment when a leaked State Department document shows that such a proposal indeed exists and was approved by Obama Administration officials. The internal memo shows that this proposal was approved by several people at the State Department, and possibly even by the official leading the Ebola Coordination Unit at the agency.  Unfortunately, this lack of transparency is just another example of the Obama Administration trying to hide its actions from the American people. “Secretaries Kerry and Johnson still have not responded to my letter inquiring about this proposal. The Obama Administration must be forthcoming with both Congress and the American people about its proposed plans to bring non-U.S. citizens infected with this deadly disease to the United States for medical care.” Last week, Chairman Goodlatte wrote a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson and Department of State Secretary John Kerry regarding recent press reports indicating that the Obama Administration plans to allow foreign nationals infected with Ebola to come to the United States for treatment. The House Judiciary Committee has not yet received a response.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398360,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 10.27.14,2014-10-27,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"21st Century Cures & Drill, Baby, Drill – It Works 21st Century Cures On Wednesday, October 22, I was joined by Congressman Phil Roe, M.D. (R-TN) and regional medical experts for a roundtable discussion on how to accelerate the pace of new promising cures and treatments for patients.  This roundtable was part of the bipartisan 21st Century Cures initiative launched in May by Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI), Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO), and the House Energy and Commerce Committee, on which I serve.   Through this initiative, which includes hearings and roundtables in Washington, D.C. and throughout the country as well, my colleagues and I on the Committee are seeking to improve the full innovation process.  This can mean discovering clues in basic science, streamlining the drug and device development process, unleashing the power of digital medicine and social media at the treatment phase, and more. As noted by Roanoke Times reporter Laurence Hammack, “The two-hour discussion … went beyond the FDA [Food and Drug Administration] approval process to cover a variety of topics: the need for health care providers to better share information about their patients; concerns about gaps in Medicare funding for telemedicine; problems with the patent process; and how to best balance the latest innovations with the more low-tech practice of encouraging patients to eat well, stop smoking and exercise more.”  Also discussed was the physician shortage problem, new technologies outpacing public policy, the importance of allowing health care providers to take advantage of methods recognizing the complexity of diseases and enabling them to bring these methods into the clinical process, the fact that the Congressional Budget Office is reluctant to score for preventive measures that show cost savings, and more. It was truly an informative and very fascinating discussion.  My sincere thanks to Dr. Roe and the others who took the time to share their thoughts and expertise. What comes next, you ask?  These ideas and others from similar hearings and roundtables will be used by me and my colleagues on the Committee to craft new laws to improve our health care system.  I encourage you to stay tuned to the 21st Century Cures initiative and other efforts to save more lives, keep the United States the leader in medical innovation, and accelerate the discovery, development, and delivery cycle of new cures and treatments for patients. Drill, Baby, Drill – It Works In a November 2013 story by the Canadian The Globe and Mail newspaper, Saudi Prince al-Waleed bin Talal discussed his belief that his country’s political elite had been “…recklessly ignoring economic threats posed by shale oil discoveries in the United States.” “New shale oil discoveries ‘are threats to any oil-producing country in the world,’ he says.”  And, “In less than two years, Prince al-Waleed says, the United States will be producing so much oil that it will be a competing exporter of crude.  Oil prices currently hovering a little below $100 (U.S.) a barrel could sink as low as $80 over the next few years and potentially fall even further if more shale oil discoveries emerge in the United States, Europe and Australia.” He continued, “Ninety-two percent of Saudi Arabia’s annual budget comes from oil.  Definitely it is a worry and a concern.” “It is a matter of survival,” he also said. President Obama mockingly describes Republicans’ energy strategy as:  “Step one is drill, and step two is drill, and then step three is keep drilling.”  But in reality, as regular readers of this column know, we believe in an all-of-the-above energy policy in which we dig, discover, deregulate, and – yes – drill in order to provide jobs, secure our energy future, and keep costs low. And guess what?  Oil prices continue to sink.  The price of Brent crude oil has dropped below $86 a barrel, and Goldman Sachs is estimating it will fall to $80 per barrel.  As Prince al-Waleed surely knows, the “drill, baby, drill!” aspect of our energy policy is working.   Lower oil prices may be a problem for Prince al-Waleed, but not for U.S. As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398359,Griffith Reiterates Call for Transparency in 2015 Health Insurance Premium Information,2014-10-24,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA), who on Tuesday, October 21 called on the Obama Administration to release 2015 health insurance rates by Tuesday, October 28, today issued this statement following a recent Forbes article indicating that non-group health insurance “…premiums rose in all but 6 states (including Washington DC)” and that, “In 2014, premiums in the non-group market grew by 24.4% compared to what they would have been without Obamacare.”  Griffith stated: “Despite repeated promises from the President and his allies, Obamacare will not save the average family anywhere near $2,500 per year.  Instead, by many indications, prices are going up.  In some states, they are going up a lot.  The American people need and deserve to know whether their health insurance premiums for next year will increase so they can plan their budgets accordingly.” “I strongly repeat my call for the President and Obamacare officials to do the right thing.  Be transparent, and release the new Obamacare insurance rates by Tuesday, October 28 – one week before the election – so the American people will know the facts before going to the polls.”   Now There Can Be No Doubt: Obamacare Has Increased Non-Group Premiums In Nearly All States October 23, 2014  By Chris Conover, Contributer Remember this categorical assurance from President Obama? “We’ll lower premiums by up to $2,500 for a typical family per year. . . . We’ll do it by the end of my first term as president of the United States” OK, it’s probably a little unfair to take some June 2008 campaign “puffery” literally–even though it was reiterated by candidate Obama’s economic policy advisor, Jason Furman in a sit-down with a New York Times reporter: “‘We think we could get to $2,500 in savings by the end of the first term, or be very close to it.” Moreover, President Obama subsequently doubled-down on his promise in July 2012, assuring small business owners “your premiums will go down.”  Fortunately, the Washington Post fact-checker, Glenn Kessler, honestly awarded the 2012 claim Three Pinocchios (“Significant factual error and/or obvious contradictions”). Unfortunately, this has never settled the debate. When the Society of Actuaries estimated spring 2013 that the ACA would result in increasing claims costs by an average of 32 percent nationally by 2017, such estimates could be dismissed as “projections” since at the time of this study, actual premiums in the Exchanges had not yet been announced.  A subsequent plethora of studies showed there had been double-digit increases in premiums (when comparing actual Exchange premiums to previously-prevailing premiums in the non-group market). However, virtually all of these studies focused only on Exchange premiums rather than premiums in the entire non-group market (only half of which consists of Exchange coverage). As a consequence, Obamacare proponents tended to dismiss these studies either as partisan attacks or methodologically limited, making what amounts to apples-to-oranges comparisons. However, a new study from the well-respected and non-partisan National Bureau of Economic Research (and published by Brookings Institution), overcomes the limitations of these prior studies by examining what happened to premiums in the entire non-group market. The bottom line? In 2014, premiums in the non-group market grew by 24.4% compared to what they would have been without Obamacare.  Of equal importance, this careful state-by-state assessment showed that premiums rose in all but 6 states (including Washington DC).  It’s worth unpacking this study a bit to understand the ramification of these findings. Non-Group Premiums Rose in 45 States Due to Obamacare The non-group market can only be accurately assessed on a state-by-state basis. Obamacare. The law creates a single risk pool in each state for non-group coverage. That is, health insurers can sell policies inside or outside the Exchanges but they all are part of the same risk pool.  Unlike virtually all other studies that have been conducted to date, this new study examined premium data from both Exchange and non-Exchange plans, i.e., providing a picture of the complete non-group market rather than one segment.  This is crucially important since in nearly one third of states (16), Exchange coverage constitutes 40% or less of the entire non-group market (Table 1). Of equal importance, unlike prior studies which simply compared pre-Obamacare premiums in 2013 to actual premiums offered on Exchanges in 2014, this new study isolates the causal impact of Obamacare statistically by using trend data in each state to figure out what non-group premiums in 2014 would have been in the absence of Obamacare. Thus, critics could dismiss many other so-called “pre-/post” studies by effectively saying “Well, premiums in the non-group have always gone up by a large amount, so what’s happening under Obamacare is no different.”  Such criticisms cannot be levied at this study. All of the percentage changes shown in the chart below represent the net change attributable to Obamacare after accounting for all the other factors that would have made premiums go up.[1]   Clearly, the adverse impact of Obamacare on non-group premiums varies sizably across states. The law is estimated to result in lower premiums in only 6 states. However, it should be noted that while the author presented premium estimates for California and New Jersey, the data for these two states is incomplete due to anomalous data reporting requirements. Thus, the large estimated premium decline of 37.5% in New Jersey likely would be different were full data available, but there is no way of telling by how much. What is disturbing is to see premium increases in excess of 35% in 9 states, including some of the nation’s largest states (Florida and Texas). Remember, these are increases above and beyond normal premium trends.  No one can credibly claim that these massive premium increases would have happened anyway since the study was specifically designed to isolate the law’s impacts from all the other factors that have driven up premiums in recent years. Taxpayers Will Pay About 24% More for Exchange Subsidies Due to Obamacare-induced Premium Increases Of course, Obamacare enthusiasts will argue that I’m ignoring all the subsidies provided to Exchange members. It’s certainly true that for those lucky enough to qualify for such subsidies, the typical size of a subsidy in any given state would have been sufficient to protect such individuals from the premium increases shown in the chart above.  But that ignores the fact that out of an estimated 13.2 million people covered in the non-group market in second quarter 2014 (Kowalski’s estimate), only about 7 million qualified for subsidies.[2]  Thus, there were 6.2 million in the non-group market who had to absorb these premium increases without the benefit of any help from Uncle Sam. Moreover, the fact that federal taxpayers were handed the privilege of having to offset such premium increases using their hard-earned tax dollars should in no way obscure the reality that Obamacare caused premiums to rise in the first place. Higher premiums are not what was promised when the law was enacted. Of equal importance, such subsidies represent a transfer that does not improve the welfare of the nation as a whole. A dollar given to an Exchange member to offset these higher premiums is simply a dollar taken out of the pocket of another American taxpayer. Indeed, had premiums not risen in the first place, the amount of subsidies required on the Exchanges could have been roughly 24% lower.[3]  Increasing the tab that taxpayers had to pay for such subsidies by roughly one fourth certainly in no way increased the nation’s welfare. In short, it is harder and harder for champions of Obamacare to ignore the plain truth that this misguided law has increased premiums in the non-group market, a burden borne by millions who have to buy coverage in that market without the benefit of taxpayer subsidies and by the taxpayers who must bankroll subsidies for those who qualify.  As I’ve demonstrated repeatedly, this law creates many more losers than winners. The many millions in the non-group market who are having to pay higher premiums due to Obamacare are just one slice of a much larger pool of losers. But until this increasingly incontestable reality are acknowledged by the law’s supporters there is no prospect of changing a law that continues (quite sensibly) to be opposed by the majority of Americans. Read the article online here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398356,Griffith Statement on Continued Lack of Obamacare Transparency,2014-10-21,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement on the failure of Obama Administration officials to release health insurance rates for 2015 until after the November midterm elections: “At a May Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations hearing, I asked representatives of some of the nation’s largest health insurance providers about their companies’ Obamacare rates for 2015.  The insurance executives would not commit to sharing their proposed rates with Congress, but did indicate that they would be submitting them to the Department of Health and Human Services and certain states by the end of June.” “I have made it clear in the past that I want the President and Obamacare officials to release data on the premium data for the 2015 plans in a reasonable timeframe, and not play political games with this important information.  I even introduced a bill that would require the Department of Health and Human Services to release the information to Congress within 30 days of receiving it from insurers.  At the time, I introduced this bill in an effort to increase transparency and ensure that the American people are not kept in the dark for political reasons.  Clearly my efforts to have this Administration keep its promise to be transparent and not play political games with the Obamacare rate increases have been unsuccessful.” “Instead of transparently sharing this information with the American people, the Administration has chosen to wait until after the midterm elections.  Why?  The answer is clear: prices are going up, and in some states they are going to go up a lot.  And the President is afraid to admit yet another failure of his Obamacare promises."" “Also notable is the fact that a former head* of Obama’s Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight (which is responsible for implementing Obamacare) has filed suit, arguing that HHS is improperly hiding the insurers’ requested rates for 2015 in violation of Obamacare itself.” “The Administration’s failure to release this important data is a sure sign that it is bad news for the American consumer.  As the old saying goes, ‘The proof is in the pudding.’  But when the Obamacare cooks refuse to bring their ‘pudding’ out of the kitchen while the customers wait impatiently, one has to believe it’s a bitter dish.  Otherwise, the President and his allies would most certainly want to give the American people a taste.” “I call on the President to do the right thing and release the new Obamacare insurance rates by Tuesday, October 28 – one week before the election – so the American people will know the facts before going to the polls.” Video of Griffith questioning insurance providers about health insurance premium rates and other issues with Obamacare can be found here. * http://www.findjustice.com/#!jay-angoff/cqkf BACKGROUND: On Friday, May 9, 2014, in an effort to increase transparency and ensure that the American people are not kept in the dark for political purposes, Griffith introduced the Insurance Rate Transparency Act (H.R. 4633).  This bill would require that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) submit specific health insurance premium increase information to Congress within 30 days of receiving it from insurance providers. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141027151109/http://goodlatte.house.gov:80/press_releases/605,GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON DHS POLICY FOR PEOPLE TRAVELLING FROM EBOLA-STRICKEN COUNTRIES,2014-10-21,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON DHS POLICY FOR PEOPLE TRAVELLING FROM EBOLA-STRICKEN COUNTRIES WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) issued the statement below following the Department of Homeland Security’s announcement that all foreign nationals traveling from Guinea, Liberia, or Sierra Leone to the United States will have to travel through one of five major U.S. airports where additional Ebola screening measures have been deployed. Chairman Goodlatte: “I’m glad that the Obama Administration is showing more concern about the possibility of people infected with Ebola entering the United States and spreading this deadly disease, but the Administration must do more to protect Americans. Obama Administration officials openly admit that these enhanced screening measures would have never detected the disease in Thomas Eric Duncan, a non-U.S. citizen, who later infected two American nurses in Dallas. “President Obama has a real solution at his disposal under current law and can use it at any time to temporarily ban foreign nationals from entering the United States from Ebola-ravaged countries. The vast majority of Americans strongly support such a travel moratorium and I urge the President to take every step possible to protect the American people from danger.” Recently, Chairman Goodlatte and Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.) wrote to President Barack Obama calling on him to use the authority granted to him by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act to temporarily ban foreign nationals who were recently in an Ebola-ravaged country from traveling to the United States. The House Judiciary Committee has jurisdiction over the Immigration and Nationality Act, which grants the President this authority. In addition, Chairman Goodlatte plans to introduce a resolution calling on the President to implement a temporary travel moratorium.  An October 14, 2014, ABC News/Washington Post poll shows that 67% of Americans surveyed said they would support “restricting entry to the United States by people who’ve been in affected countries.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030154749/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/604,GOODLATTE TO ADMINISTRATION: ARE THERE PLANS TO ADMIT EBOLA-INFECTED NON-CITIZENS INTO THE U.S. FOR TREATMENT?,2014-10-21,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE TO ADMINISTRATION: ARE THERE PLANS TO ADMIT EBOLA-INFECTED NON-CITIZENS INTO THE U.S. FOR TREATMENT? WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) today sent the following letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson and Department of State Secretary John Kerry regarding recent press reports indicating that the Obama Administration plans to allow foreign nationals infected with Ebola to come to the United States for treatment. “Dear Secretaries Johnson and Kerry,  “Press reports have indicated that the Administration is putting together a plan to allow non-U.S. citizens infected with Ebola, to enter the United States for treatment.  Please provide answers to the following questions by October 25, 2014: 1. Are either of your Departments formulating a plan to allow non-U.S. citizens infected with Ebola to enter the U.S. to receive medical treatment?  If so, what are the details of the plan? 2. Have employees of either of your Departments engaged in conversations regarding a plan to allow non-U.S. citizens infected with Ebola to enter the U.S. to receive medical treatment? 3. Please provide me any and all written memos or other documentation written by employees of your Departments regarding the formulation of a plan to allow non-U.S. citizens infected with Ebola to enter the U.S. to receive medical treatment. “Thank you in advance for your prompt response.” Chairman Goodlatte and Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.) recently wrote to President Obama calling on him to use the authority granted to him by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act to temporarily ban foreign nationals who were recently in an Ebola-ravaged country from traveling to the United States.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398329,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 10.20.14,2014-10-20,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"46 and 387 In an October 2 speech, President Obama asserted, “By every economic measure, we are better off now than we were when I took office.”  The President may think everything is okay, but I don’t.  And when I talk to constituents, they don’t think everything is okay either.  Too many are unemployed or underemployed, have only part-time jobs when they want full-time work, or have dropped out of the workplace entirely.  Too many people are seeing their income and wages reduced. 46 jobs bills (solutions) that would encourage more employment have passed the United States House and are stuck in Senator Harry Reid’s (D-NV) do-nothing Senate. When the President and others say Congress doesn’t do anything, I would remind them that the House has sent 46 pro-job bills to the do-nothing Senate. I am not only concerned about what is taking place with our economy, but also what is happening with our country’s energy sector, what is happening with our constitutionally protected rights, and what is happening with our health care system, among other issues.  Some ask the question: what are you doing about it?  Well, there are in fact, 387 House-passed bills (solutions) dealing with these and other issues that are gathering dust on Senator Reid’s desk.  The Senate isn’t acting on our proposed solutions.  Further, they aren’t making reasonable proposals of their own. In the words of an old Wendy’s restaurant commercial, “Where is the beef?”  Unfortunately, the only “beef” in the Senate is in the fancy steak dinners some Senators eat while not passing bills. Ebola, EV-D68, and the 21st Century Cures Initiative Similarly, the Administration and the Democrat Senate need to work with House Republicans to come up with solutions dealing with health care issues. While the President will never agree that his health care plan known as Obamacare is a failure, there are other areas where I hope he will see that we can work together to develop a strategy to assure the American people that they are being protected from diseases. That strategy should include reasonable travel restrictions.  It should include actions to secure our nation’s porous borders.  It should include the additional training of health care workers and other personnel to properly identify and treat Ebola, etc.  And it should include the accelerated review and approval of vaccines and cures to stop the spread of disease. I would encourage the Administration, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and other agencies to also pursue the expedited review and approval of treatments for Enterovirus D68.  Also known as EV-D68, this is a respiratory illness that has been linked to the deaths of several children and to paralysis symptoms in dozens.  Currently, there are no specific treatments, antiviral medications, or immunizations for this virus. The 21st Century Cures initiative - launched in May by Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) and Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) as a bipartisan effort of my Committee, the House Energy and Commerce Committee - will play a significant role in expediting the development of new drugs and treatments for diseases like Ebola and EV-D68. Through this initiative, we are inviting medical experts and patient advocates to hearings in Washington and roundtable discussions throughout the nation to share with us their perspective on how to best accelerate the pace of cures.  I have attended the 21st Century Cures hearings in Washington, and I am holding a regional 21st Century Cures roundtable discussion in Blacksburg with Congressman Phil Roe, M.D. (R-TN) and a number of medical experts.  Discussions at the roundtable include the Food and Drug Administration’s Drug Approval Process, clinical trials, telemedicine, mobile health apps, and more. The collaborative 21st Century Cures effort is about saving more lives, keeping this country the leader in medical innovation, and accelerating the discovery, development, and delivery cycle of new cures and treatments for diseases including Ebola and EV-D68.  I look forward to a continued insightful and productive conversation on these issues. Medicare Open Enrollment As a reminder for all our seniors, the Medicare open enrollment period began last week and runs through December 7, 2014.  For more information, you can visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE. Upcoming Veterans Town Hall in Salem To those veterans living in the area serviced by the Salem Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC), please be advised that there is a veterans town hall/listening session scheduled for November 10, 2014 from 3:00pm-4:00pm at the Salem VAMC Auditorium in Building 5.  With questions or to confirm this event is still in effect, please contact Salem VAMC Customer Service Manager Ann Benois at 540-982-2463 ext. 3554 or Public Affairs Officer Marian McConnell at 540-855-3460. On a Personal Note… We send our weekly column to every newspaper we know of in the district.  Some newspapers print the column, some do not.  If you live in an area where the newspaper does not carry our column, please remind friends and family they can sign up at www.morgangriffith.house.gov to receive it from us by email. As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398313,"Griffith, Roe to host 21st Century Cures Health Care Roundtable",2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) and Congressman Phil Roe, M.D. (R-TN) on Wednesday, October 22 will host medical experts in a roundtable discussion on how to accelerate the pace of new promising cures and treatments for patients.  Topics to be discussed may include but are not limited to: the Food and Drug Administration’s Drug Approval Process, clinical trials, telemedicine, mobile health apps, personalized medicine, and medical research and funding. CURRENT PARTICIPANTS: Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09) Congressman Phil Roe, M.D. (TN-01) Dr. Bob Meyer, University of Virginia (UVA) Health System Dr. Karen Rheuban, UVA Health System Dr. Maciek Sasinowski, Health Diagnostic Laboratory Jeff Gallagher, Virginia BIO Michael Matthews, Healtheway Dr. Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) Dr. Rob Gourdie, Virginia Tech Carilion (VTC) Research Institute Dr. Stephen Morgan, Carilion Dr. Josep Bassaganya-Riera, BioTherapeutics Inc. Karl Strohmeier, Teva Dr. John Davis, Davis Medical WHAT: 21st Century Cures Health Care Roundtable WHEN: Wednesday, October 22 from 10:00am – 12:00pm WHERE: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) Blacksburg, Virginia  The 21st Century Cures initiative was launched in May as a bipartisan effort of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, on which Rep. Griffith serves.  The Committee is seeking to improve the full biomedical innovation process, from the discovery of clues in basic science to streamlining the drug and device development process to unleashing the power of digital medicine and social media at the treatment phase and more.  This collaborative effort is about saving more lives, keeping this country the leader in medical innovation, and accelerating the discovery, development, and delivery cycle of new cures and treatments. Media is invited to attend.  Please contact Andie Pivarunas (andrea.pivarunas@mail.house.gov or 202-225-3861) with questions or to confirm media attendance.  To learn more about the 21st Century Cures initiative, click HERE.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030154750/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/603,GOODLATTE SEEKS ANSWERS ABOUT THE DROP IN NUMBER OF PROSECUTIONS FOR FIRST-TIME ILLEGAL BORDER CROSSERS,2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE SEEKS ANSWERS ABOUT THE DROP IN NUMBER OF PROSECUTIONS FOR FIRST-TIME ILLEGAL BORDER CROSSERS WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte today sent a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder expressing concern regarding the drop in the number of prosecutions under Operation Streamline for first-time illegal border crossers. The goal of Operation Streamline is to criminally prosecute individuals who illegally cross the border in order to deter them and others from trying again in the future.  Operation Streamline has been one of the most successful programs to decrease illegal entries at our southwest border yet under the Obama Administration prosecutions for first-time border crossers have plummeted.  Below is the text of the letter. “Dear Attorney General Holder: “Operation Streamline (OS) has been one of the most successful programs to decrease illegal entries ever initiated along our southwest border.  Established in 2005, and subsequently expanded to a number of southwest Border Patrol sectors, OS’s original goal was to establish a “zero tolerance” policy in which virtually all adult border crossers not accompanied by their children were criminally prosecuted, most for the misdemeanor crime of a first illegal entry and the felony crimes of subsequent illegal entry and illegal reentry after having been ordered removed. As former Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano stated, OS “aims to increase the consequences for illegally crossing the border by criminally prosecuting illegal border crossers.” “While many of those convicted only serve short prison sentences (including in some instances for time served at the time of conviction), the deterrent effect has been significant.  Former Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff stated that OS “has an unbelievable return . . . .  What we see, both statistically and anecdotally, is that when people who cross the border illegally are brought to face the reality that they are committing a crime, even if it is just a misdemeanor, that has a huge impact on their willingness to try again and on the willingness of others to break the law coming across the border.” And former Attorney General Michael Mukasey stated that OS and similar programs “appear to have had a significant deterrent effect on illegal immigration in places like Del Rio, Texas and Yuma, Arizona, reducing the number of individuals returning illegally to the United States and discouraging others from coming here illegally in the first place.” “The Congressional Research Service has reported that the recidivism rate of repatriated illegal entrants (those re-apprehended in the same fiscal year) is dramatically lower under OS – 10.3% in fiscal year 2012 -- than when aliens are simply returned through expedited removal (16.4%) or voluntary return (27.1%).Partially as a result of OS, apprehensions of unlawful aliens fell dramatically from 2005 to 2013 – particularly in the Yuma, Arizona Border Patrol sector where OS had a zero tolerance policy and apprehensions fell from over 138,000 to slightly more than 6,000.  “While resource constraints have prevented all first-time border crossers from being prosecuted, many have been – sending a clear message of deterrence.  Unfortunately, fewer and fewer first time crossers are being prosecuted program-wide. It is of great concern, therefore, that the Sheriff of Yuma County, Arizona, has recently reported that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona will no longer be prosecuting any first-time border crossers without criminal records.  If true, this will send exactly the wrong message to potential illegal entrants around the world and exacerbate our current border crisis.  Now is the worst possible time to be undermining OS.       “In light of these concerns, please provide me with the following information: • In each fiscal year beginning in 2005, the Border Patrol sectors in which OS was operating; • In each fiscal year beginning in 2005 in each federal judicial district containing a Border Patrol sector in which OS was in operation, the number of prosecutions for violation of 8 U.S.C. 1325(a), the number of convictions, and the average sentence length (with each factor broken down by whether the prosecution was for the first commission of a 1325(a) offense or a subsequent commission of an offense);  • In each fiscal year beginning in 2005 in each federal judicial district containing a Border Patrol sector in which OS was in operation, the number of Department of Homeland Security referrals for violation of 8 U.S.C. 1325(a) in which the Department of Justice decided not to initiate a prosecution; • In each fiscal year beginning in 2005 in each federal judicial district containing a Border Patrol sector in which OS was in operation, the number of prosecutions for violation of 8 U.S.C. 1326(a), the number of convictions, and the average sentence length;  • In each fiscal year beginning in 2005 in each federal judicial district containing a Border Patrol sector in which OS was in operation, the number of Department of Homeland Security referrals for violation of 8 U.S.C. 1326(a) in which the Department of Justice decided not to initiate a prosecution; • On an ongoing basis, update the information requested above each quarter; and  • In each fiscal year beginning in 2009, the changes that have been made, if any, to the prosecution guidelines for OS in each federal judicial district containing a Border Patrol sector in which OS was in operation. “I would appreciate your prompt response to these questions.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=545,Wittman Urges Travel Restrictions as Part of U.S. Ebola Outbreak Response,2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement today after sending a letter to President Barack Obama expressing his serious concerns about the spread of Ebola to the United States and urging the Administration to implement travel restrictions from nations impacted by Ebola to the United States: The threat presented by Ebola is very real, and as a former public health official, I believe that coordinated, calculated action must be taken in order to ensure the safety of our citizens and to stop this deadly virus in its tracks. I have reminded the President of the urgency of this threat, and I urge him to enact travel restrictions from these West African nations so that we can better protect the health and safety of the American people. The full text of the letter follows: October 17, 2014 President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President, Americans have watched as the Ebola virus outbreak in West Africa becomes a major public health crisis of pandemic proportions. On behalf of many of my constituents, I write to you with grave concerns about the spread of Ebola to the United States, brought by an infected traveler from West Africa. Highly coordinated interagency efforts must be taken to address the emerging threat of Ebola in the U.S. and to prevent a health crisis here at home. As a former public health official, I recognize the significant health risks posed by Ebola and understand that when a pandemic of this proportion occurs, movement of people must be restricted immediately. Therefore, I strongly urge your Administration to implement travel restrictions from West African nations impacted by Ebola to the U.S. I believe this is a sensible and prudent step that would protect Americans by slowing or halting the spread of this deadly virus. Current health screenings in West African nations failed to stop an infected person from traveling from Liberia to the United States. Unfortunately, had travel restrictions already been in place, perhaps Ebola could have been stopped at the U.S. border without jeopardizing the health and safety of the American people. There is more work to be done to ensure that the public and Congress are kept informed and to ultimately stop the spread of this terrible virus. I respectfully ask that you continue these efforts and stand resolute in the duty to protect all Americans by restricting travel from impacted West African nations. Finally, we must also ensure the health and safety of our military personnel who have been and will be deployed in West Africa in support of Operation United Assistance, the U.S. military's response to the Ebola outbreak, as well as our public health officials and first responders here at home. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter and your full consideration of this request. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141017232232/http://wolf.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wolf-statement-on-possible-ebola-patient-in-loudoun-county,Wolf Statement On Possible Ebola Patient In Loudoun County,2014-10-16,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Frank Wolf,W000672,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA) released the following statement today regarding reports that a woman who recently travelled from West Africa is being tested for the Ebola virus at a hospital in Loudoun County: “Since July I have been voicing concern that there is not a sufficient plan in place to deal with the deadly disease.  Last week I called on the Obama Administration to appoint one person to coordinate a response.  Regrettably, my recommendations have fallen on deaf ears.  “Today I am calling for a ban on travel from those West African nations battling Ebola.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030154752/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/601,GOODLATTE SEEKS ANSWERS ON EBOLA RESPONSE,2014-10-16,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE SEEKS ANSWERS ON EBOLA RESPONSE WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bob Goodlatte sent a letter today to Dr. Tom Frieden, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Jeh Johnson, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, and Anthony Foxx, Secretary of the Department of Transportation, seeking answers on the Obama Administration’s “whole of government” response to the Ebola outbreak.  Below is the text of the letter. “Dear Director Frieden, Secretary Johnson, and Secretary Foxx: “I write to share my concern regarding the United States’ ‘whole of government’ response to the Ebola outbreak.  While it is important to keep perspective on the outbreak overseas, cases of Ebola now perpetuating in the continental United States is of extreme concern.   “To date, no travel restrictions have been placed on individuals traveling to the United States from affected West African countries.  In light of this current position, I would appreciate answers to the following questions: “•   Why are there so few advanced screening sites in the continental United States to screen international travelers?   “•   Given that the only domestic acquired cases of Ebola have been in Dallas, Texas, why have we not been screening individuals flying in and out of Dallas, Texas? “•   Specifically, what additional steps are being taken to reach out to U.S. hospitals given media reports that the lack of training and/or supplies in Dallas, Texas contributed to the spread of Ebola to additional individuals? “•   Why are individuals who have come into contact with an afflicted individual being allowed to fly domestically?  Reports that Amber Vinson contacted the CDC prior to flying, but was given the 'okay' to fly are deeply concerning.   “•   It is my understanding that travel restrictions are only placed on healthcare workers who have cared for Ebola patients if it is determined that safety protocols during that care were not followed.  However, with additional cases of Ebola presenting themselves in Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital nurses, are these safety protocols, as a measure for travel safety, being reviewed?  “Today, I sent a letter to President Obama urging him to use the authority granted to him in the Immigration and Nationality Act to ‘prohibit foreign nationals who were recently present in an Ebola-ravaged country from entering the United States.’ I reiterate that message to you as well.  While reforms to our domestic handling of Ebola in the United States are necessary, and we need to address many concerns, including those I have outlined above, our ‘whole of government’ approach to this situation should include travel restrictions for certain individuals attempting to come to the United States after being in Guinea, Liberia, and/or Sierra Leone.  “I look forward to hearing from you on this important matter.” NOTE: Earlier today, Congressman Goodlatte also sent a letter to President Obama calling on him to use the authority granted to him by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act to temporarily ban foreign nationals who were recently in an Ebola-ravaged country from traveling to the United States.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030154753/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/602,GOODLATTE & GOWDY CALL ON PRESIDENT TO PLACE TEMPORARY TRAVEL BAN ON FOREIGN NATIONALS ENTERING THE U.S. FROM EBOLA-RAVAGED COUNTRIES,2014-10-16,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE & GOWDY CALL ON PRESIDENT TO PLACE TEMPORARY TRAVEL BAN ON FOREIGN NATIONALS ENTERING THE U.S. FROM EBOLA-RAVAGED COUNTRIES WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte and Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.) today wrote to President Barack Obama calling on him to use the authority granted to him by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act to temporarily ban foreign nationals who were recently in an Ebola-ravaged country from traveling to the United States. The House Judiciary Committee has jurisdiction over the Immigration and Nationality Act, which grants the President this authority.  In addition, Chairman Goodlatte plans to introduce a resolution calling on the President to implement a temporary travel moratorium.  Below is the text of the letter. “Mr. President,  “We write regarding your solemn duty as the President of the United States to take every step possible to protect the American people from danger.  Specifically, we urge you to use authority granted to you by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit foreign nationals who were recently present in an Ebola-ravaged country, from entering the United States.     “8 U.S.C. 1182(f) states ‘[W]henever the President finds that the entry of any aliens or of any class of aliens into the United States would be detrimental to the interests of the United States, he may by proclamation, and for such period as he shall deem necessary, suspend the entry of all aliens or any class of aliens as immigrants or nonimmigrants, or impose on the entry of aliens any restrictions he deems to be appropriate.’  “You utilized this provision in August 2011, ‘to restrict the international travel and to suspend the entry into the United States, as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of certain persons’ who participated in serious human rights and humanitarian law violations. Preventing Americans from contracting Ebola, which the World Health Organization (WHO) notes ‘has a death rate of up to 90%’ and has already killed at least 4,484 people in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, is every bit as important as preventing human rights abusers from entering the United States. “While Ebola is not transmittable until a victim develops symptoms, the WHO notes that the incubation period can be 42 days or longer and that certain methods of Ebola transmission can continue for as long as seven weeks after a patient’s recovery. Therefore we urge that your use of 8 U.S.C. 1182(f) cover any foreign national who was present in a country with widespread and intense transmission of Ebola within the two months prior to desired travel to the U.S.  Such a travel restriction can and should be temporary, with the moratorium lifted when the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, and any other countries with a subsequent outbreak, is controlled.   “We have listened with interest to the arguments articulated by officials within the Administration in opposition to a ban on travel from affected countries.  Unfortunately, such arguments seem to have little, if any, merit.  And a growing number of Americans agree.  In fact an October 14, 2014, ABC News/Washington Post poll showed that 67% of Americans surveyed said they would support ‘restricting entry to the United States by people who’ve been in affected countries.’  “Use of 8 U.S.C. 1182(f) is not only reasonable at this point, but is prudent and necessary to help prevent additional Ebola cases in the U.S.  It will also help begin to turn around Americans’ large-scale lack of confidence that the Federal government is doing everything it can to protect them from Ebola.     “Thank you for your immediate attention to this critical matter.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397985,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 10.13.14,2014-10-13,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Ebola: An Update On September 16, President Obama said from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia: “First and foremost, I want the American people to know that our experts, here at the CDC and across our government, agree that the chances of an Ebola outbreak here in the United States are extremely low.  We’ve been taking the necessary precautions, including working with countries in West Africa to increase screening at airports so that someone with the virus doesn’t get on a plane for the United States.  In the unlikely event that someone with Ebola does reach our shores, we’ve taken new measures so that we’re prepared here at home.  We’re working to help flight crews identify people who are sick, and more labs across our country now have the capacity to quickly test for the virus.  We’re working with hospitals to make sure that they are prepared, and to ensure that our doctors, our nurses and our medical staff are trained, are ready, and are able to deal with a possible case safely.” However, as we all know, in late September a Mr. Duncan was diagnosed with Ebola in Texas after having left Liberia.  According to reports, he did not have symptoms of the disease when departing, but developed them after having arrived.  Because of the disease’s incubation period, a person may be infected with Ebola for as long as three weeks before symptoms appear. Unfortunately, treatment did not work and Mr. Duncan passed away on October 8, making him the first person to die of this disease in the United States.  He died approximately a week after having been diagnosed, and just weeks after the President said Ebola was “unlikely” to enter the United States. The President was wrong about the likelihood of this disease entering the United States.  Could he and his Administration also be wrong about the likelihood of an outbreak or about our preparedness? “We had one case and I think there may be other cases, and I think we have to recognize that as a nation,” warned Sylvia Burwell, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), on October 9. CDC officials on Sunday, October 12 confirmed that a Texas nurse who had “extensive contact” with Mr. Duncan has tested positive for Ebola, making her the first to contract the disease inside the United States.  She was reportedly wearing the recommended protective gear while handling Mr. Duncan.  CDC Director Dr. Thomas Frieden said a “protocol breach” was likely responsible for her infection. The nurse is being treated and, according to reports, is in stable condition.  Meanwhile, the city of Dallas has made a “reverse-911 call” to residents in a four-block area to notify them a neighbor is the second case of Ebola in the United States. I am very concerned.  Will current and planned protocols protect the American people from exposure to this disease?  Federal officials recently announced they would begin screening (taking temperatures, filling out questionnaires, etc.) at five major U.S. airports passengers entering our country from West Africa.  Similarly, Britain will be screening certain passengers. Some say these screenings alone would not have identified Mr. Duncan’s case, and that there is more that must be done to protect people from this disease.  I would also argue that the President’s immigration policy, foreign policy, etc. could go further to protect the American people. As a student of history, I cannot help at this time but recall the polio outbreak of the 1950s – more specifically, of Wytheville’s “Summer Without Children” in which the town was essentially quarantined as officials struggled with a full-blown polio epidemic.  This was not to be discriminatory, but was meant to protect and to stop/slow the spread of polio, about which little was known at the time. There have been legitimate calls for immigration and travel restrictions in an effort to help prevent the spread of Ebola.  I suggest you review last week’s column in which I discuss how to further protect the American people while also addressing concerns that such restrictions would limit help to African nations in need. Lastly, Ebola may be getting most of the headlines, but I am also concerned about Enterovirus D68, which has killed at least two children and may be causing paralysis-like symptoms in others.  The CDC and other agencies must work to protect Americans from both diseases.  The situation with both diseases is changing rapidly.  This column reflects the facts known at the time of its writing. As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397906,Griffith Notes Anniversary of the Battle of Point Pleasant,2014-10-10,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) today issued the following statement in honor of the Battle of Point Pleasant, which took place on October 10, 1774: “240 years ago today, western Virginia frontiersmen under the command of Colonel Andrew Lewis met an army led by Chief Cornstalk, a Shawnee chief, at the juncture of the Kanawha and Ohio Rivers known as Point Pleasant.  This was then located in the colony of Virginia, but today is in West Virginia.”   “This battle marked a turning point in North American history.  While I could spend hours discussing what lead up to the battle and its aftermath, I won’t do so at this time.  I recommend you research this important date for yourself.” “However, it is important to note that this battle is credited as being the first battle of the American Revolution by the Senate of the United States.  The defeat of Chief Cornstalk’s army meant that settlers could pour across the ridge of the Appalachians and settle in the Kentucky territory of Virginia and in parts of Tennessee.  The settlers were led in large part by Daniel Boone who, although not present at the time of the battle, was a part of Colonel Lewis’ army and was in charge of Lewis’ army’s supplies.  Because of the large number of settlers who crossed the mountains after 1774, when peace was reached with George III of England, the British crown had to cede to the new country of the United States of America lands to the Mississippi, and not just to the ridge of the Appalachians.”   “Rarely studied, but extremely important in the development of this great country was this battle fought by the western Virginians.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030154754/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/599,GOODLATTE: PRESIDENT'S POLICIES CREATE BORDER DISORDER,2014-10-10,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE: PRESIDENT'S POLICIES CREATE BORDER DISORDER WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte issued the statement below regarding the number of unaccompanied alien minors (UAM) and family units apprehended at the Southwest border for Fiscal Year 2014, which was recently released by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Before the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program was implemented in the summer of 2012, the number of UAM apprehended at the border was 6,560 in Fiscal Year 2011. This year, the number of UAM caught at the border surged to 68,541, which is a 945% increase since Fiscal Year 2011. Additionally, the number of family units apprehended at the border jumped from 14,855 last year to 68,445 in Fiscal Year 2014, representing a 361% increase. Chairman Goodlatte: “After six years of refusing to enforce our immigration laws and acting unilaterally to provide administrative amnesty to unlawful immigrants, President Obama has created disorder at our borders. Word has spread to Central America and beyond that our immigration laws are not enforced, which has encouraged hundreds of thousands of people to make the dangerous trek north to illegally cross our Southwest border. It’s not surprising that since the implementation of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program the number of minors crossing the border has surged by nearly 1,000%. “The solution to this problem is simple: the President and his Administration must enforce our immigration laws. However, President Obama refuses to take the steps necessary to enforce our laws and end the chaos at the border. Instead he has made the situation worse by promising to take action later this year to change our immigration laws. These proclamations from the White House will only encourage more people to come to the U.S. illegally.” Background: In July, Chairman Goodlatte led a bipartisan delegation to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas to examine this crisis and seek solutions on how best to stop it. During the trip, members of the House Judiciary Committee toured federal facilities and met with those dealing with this problem firsthand at the border, including law enforcement officers and federal officials from the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, and Health and Human Services. Key findings from the trip can be found here. Chairman Goodlatte’s op-ed outlining actions President Obama could take now to end the border crisis can be found here.  Additionally, this summer the House of Representatives approved legislation (H.R. 5230) to provide targeted, narrow funding for border security, enforcement of immigration laws, and illegal immigration deterrence through the end of Fiscal Year 2014 in order to meet law enforcement’s immediate needs at the U.S.-Mexico border. The Senate failed to act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030154755/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/600,GOODLATTE: PRESIDENT WILLING TO SACRIFICE CONSTITUTION & NATIONAL SECURITY FOR AGENDA,2014-10-10,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE: PRESIDENT WILLING TO SACRIFICE CONSTITUTION & NATIONAL SECURITY FOR AGENDA WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte issued the statement below after The Wall Street Journal reported that President Obama is considering plans to override the law and transfer detained terrorists from Guantanamo Bay to the United States. Chairman Goodlatte: “Over the years, President Obama has repeatedly sought to close federal facilities in Guantanamo Bay and bring detained terrorists to the United States but both Republicans and Democrats in Congress have consistently rejected the President’s plan over and over again. Although the law is explicit that the President cannot transport these detained terrorists into the United States, President Obama once again seems willing to ignore the law to achieve his objectives. The President’s pattern of ignoring the law poses a danger not only to our Constitution and individual liberty, but also to national security. At a time when the Islamic State is killing innocent civilians, including Americans, how can the President even justify contemplating such a plan? President Obama has shown that he is willing to sacrifice both the Constitution and the security of the United States for his own agenda.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141010055132/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/597,GOODLATTE: SENATE MUST PASS USA FREEDOM ACT,2014-10-09,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE: SENATE MUST PASS USA FREEDOM ACT WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte released the statement below following the remarks made yesterday by Google Chairman Eric Schmidt and Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) that bulk collection of data by the government is undercutting the American economy.  Chairman Goodlatte: “I agree with Senator Wyden and the tech community that last year’s national security leaks have had a commercial and financial impact on American technology companies. As I stated when the House overwhelmingly passed the USA Freedom Act in May, American tech companies have experienced a backlash from both American and foreign consumers and they’ve lost a piece of their competitive edge in the global marketplace. The House acted earlier this year to end the bulk collection of data by the government and provide American tech companies new ways to report data concerning government requests for customer information. When the Senate returns in November, it must pass the USA Freedom Act in order to protect Americans’ civil liberties and to ensure that American tech companies can begin to rebuild trust with their customers and flourish in the global economy.” In May 2014, the House Judiciary Committee, which has primary jurisdiction over intelligence-gathering programs operated under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), approved the USA Freedom Act. This bipartisan bill, authored by senior members of the Committee, ends bulk collection of data by the government and reforms our nation’s intelligence-gathering programs operated under FISA. Among the bill’s provisions, it allows tech companies to inform their American and foreign customers by publicly reporting national security requests from the government. Following Committee approval, the House of Representatives passed the USA Freedom Act by a vote of 302-121.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141012012745/http://goodlatte.house.gov:80/press_releases/596,HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE SEEKS ANSWERS ON SERIES OF SECRET SERVICE FAILURES,2014-10-09,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE SEEKS ANSWERS ON SERIES OF SECRET SERVICE FAILURES WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte, Ranking Member John Conyers (D-Mich.), Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations Subcommittee Chairman Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wisc.), and Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations Subcommittee Ranking Member Bobby Scott (D-Va.) today sent a letter to Acting Secret Service Director Joseph Clancy seeking answers to over a dozen questions regarding a series of security breaches that occurred at the White House complex and during official travel. The House Judiciary Committee, which has primary jurisdiction over the Secret Service’s functions, including its critical role in protecting the President and the White House complex, will hold both public and classified hearings in November to examine ongoing issues at the agency. In the letter, Chairman Goodlatte, Ranking Member Conyers, Crime Subcommittee Chairman Sensenbrenner, and Crime Subcommittee Ranking Member Scott write: “In light of recent events and evident security failures, the House Judiciary Committee has grave concerns about the policies, procedures, and judgment of the United States Secret Service.  “As you know, on September 19, 2014, Omar Gonzalez scaled the White House fence, evaded numerous Secret Service officers outside of the White House, and forced his way through the front door armed with a knife.  It now appears that Mr. Gonzalez made it into the East Room of the White House, despite initial claims by the Secret Service that he was apprehended just inside the North Portico doors.  Additionally, three days earlier, an armed security contractor with a criminal record was allowed on an elevator with the President during a visit to the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta.  This apparent security lapse was similarly not disclosed until media reports began to surface.  “As members of the Committee of primary jurisdiction over many of the Secret Service’s functions, including its critical role in protecting the President and the White House complex, we are deeply concerned with the Service’s ability to effectively identify, intercept, and disrupt threats to the President of the United States.  In order to facilitate our ability to conduct effective oversight over the Service and recent security lapses, please respond to the following questions as soon as possible: 1. Please provide a detailed timeline of the events involving Omar Gonzalez on September 19, 2014, including which Secret Service teams or units were involved. 2. Why did the Service initially report publicly and to Congress that Mr. Gonzalez was stopped and arrested just inside the front door of the White House, given that this is not true?  3. Did the Service follow the protocol(s) it has in place to interdict individuals such as Mr. Gonzalez?  If not, why not?   4. What specific steps are the Service and the Department of Homeland Security taking to review and revise its policies and procedures for securing the White House complex in response to the events on September 19, 2014?  When will this review be completed? 5. Will any review of the September 19, 2014, events include a review of how information regarding the suspect prior to that date was handled, including information gathered by Secret Service investigators following Mr. Gonzalez’s arrest on July 19, 2014? 6. Do you intend to review the White House’s infrastructure for security risks?  Which other agencies or offices must approve any recommended improvements? 7. It has been reported that there have been 16 incidents of unauthorized persons jumping over or attempting to jump over the White House fence in the past five years.  Six such incidents have occurred this year alone.  What had the Service done prior to September 19, 2014, in response to the recent increase in intruders on White House grounds? 8. Why was the North Portico door to the White House unlocked on a Friday evening?  Was the door equipped with an auto-locking mechanism to protect against such incidents?  If not, why not? 9. With respect to the incident of September 16, 2014, were the policies and procedures in place at the time followed?  If not, why not?   10. What steps is the Service taking to review and revise its policies and procedures for handling third-party security contractors?  Specifically, what is your policy for determining when third-parties may be armed while in the proximity of the President or another protected individual? 11. Did the contractor involved in the September 16, 2014, event have a criminal record?  Was the Service aware of this prior to the President’s visit? If not, why not? 12. Please describe the process of excluding someone with a criminal record from access to the President.  Is this solely a decision for the Service? 13. According to a recent report on the Best Places to Work, the Secret Service ranks 226 out of 300 federal agencies.  As one example, it has been reported that the concerns of officers involved in the 2011 shooting incident were not properly heeded.  As low morale can often lead to poor performance, what do you intend to do going forward to address this problem generally, and to promote a culture of openness and accountability at all levels of the agency more specifically?  “Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We appreciate your prompt response.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030155459/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/598,BOEHNER & GOODLATTE: IT'S NEVER ACCEPTABLE FOR THE PRESIDENT TO RE-WRITE OUR LAWS,2014-10-09,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"BOEHNER & GOODLATTE: IT'S NEVER ACCEPTABLE FOR THE PRESIDENT TO RE-WRITE OUR LAWS WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) released the joint statement below following the remarks made yesterday by White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest that President Obama delayed his decision to act unilaterally on immigration until after the November elections because he didn’t want Republicans to win on the issue. “It’s shocking that the White House now openly admits that President Obama is delaying his unilateral actions on immigration until after the November elections simply because of raw politics. Whether before or after the election in November, it is never acceptable for the President to re-write our laws by executive decree – the Constitution does not give him the authority to do so. By taking unilateral action on immigration, President Obama will inject serious constitutional questions into an already heated debate. Such shortsighted actions will undermine the American people’s trust in the President’s commitment to enforcing our immigration laws and will further setback any chance of enacting immigration reform.” Last month, House Judiciary Committee Republicans wrote to President Obama demanding that he disclose to the American people the recommendations he has received for the anticipated executive actions he will take to further dismantle our nation’s immigration laws. To date, the President has failed to respond.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397658,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 10.6.14,2014-10-06,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"CDC Confirms: Ebola Case in the United States Especially following the recent announcement that, for the first time on American soil, a patient has been diagnosed with Ebola, I am very concerned about the possibility of this deadly disease spreading around the globe. I will be at an Energy and Commerce hearing on the Ebola outbreak set for October 16.  Energy and Commerce is a committee with jurisdiction over health care. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this patient – who traveled to Texas from West Africa (where several nations are in the midst of an Ebola outbreak) – did not have symptoms of the disease when departing, but developed them after having arrived in the United States.  Ebola’s symptoms may take as many as 21 days after infection to appear. There have been legitimate calls for immigration and travel restrictions involving countries with Ebola outbreaks, but CDC officials have said such restrictions may make it harder to get medical personnel to those nations if they will then be unable to leave. To resolve these concerns, we could consider limiting entry from afflicted countries to citizens and permanent residents of the United States.  Simultaneously, we could implement significant screening procedures and health monitoring up to 22 days after reentry.  This would give us assurance that those reentering the U.S. had not contracted the disease. This is a global public health concern.  We in the United States must be vigilant. At the hearing on the 16th, I want to discuss the CDC’s long-term plans for controlling the spread of Ebola in the United States! The President is sending thousands of U.S. troops to West Africa to support health workers seeking to stop the spread of Ebola.  Additionally, I will ask how the CDC will deal with returning American troops who contracted Ebola while on duty in Africa. Is there a question that you would like me to ask?  If so, please submit it for my consideration at https://morgangriffith.house.gov/contact. 60 Plus Association Confirms: EPA Regulations Harm Seniors On October 2, I joined the 60 Plus Association (a group advocating for seniors) in Washington, D.C. to unveil a new study by energy economist Gene Trisko.  Trisko’s study finds that high electric and energy prices are disproportionately impacting senior citizens throughout the United States.  Among the findings noted in Trisko’s study is data from a 2009 survey by the Applied Public Policy Research Institute for Study and Evaluation (APPRISE) focusing on the situations of people able to qualify for the federal Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that: “Energy costs are adversely impacting lower‐income seniors afflicted by health conditions, leading them to forego food for a day, reduce medical or dental care, and fail to pay utility bills.” Trisko’s report notes that participants in this APPRISE study reported these health-associated responses relating to energy costs:           Went without food for at least one day ‐ 30%           Went without medical or dental care ‐ 41%           Did not fill prescription or took less than full dose ‐ 33%           Unable to pay energy bill due to medical expenses ‐ 22%           Became sick because home was too cold ‐ 25%   This important issue has long been of concern to me.  In a 2011 committee hearing, I asked then-Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Jackson about health dangers to people who are unable to afford sufficient heat.  She replied, “The actions we have taken under the greenhouse gas regulations are not intended to make less fuel available to Americans.” Intended or not, I believe that is what is happening.  Making electricity for heating and cooling more expensive is, in fact, limiting the amount of fuel, and is further harming senior citizens already worried about how they’re going to cover the cost of food, medical bills, and yes, the light and heat bill each month.  I simply cannot fathom how this Administration can continue promoting policies that raise energy costs while also suggesting that funding for LIHEAP and similar programs be cut. American seniors, families, etc. deserve stability and security, affordable and reliable electricity, and a strong economy.  I have sought and continue seeking answers from EPA officials about the impacts their burdensome regulations will have not only on jobs and the economy, but also the impacts these policies will have on the poor and elderly through increased heating and cooling prices.  As I continue seeking the answers to these important questions, I will continue fighting to provide the American people with the stability and security they deserve. As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141010023612/http://wolf.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-frank-wolf-and-sen-jerry-moran-call-on-president-obama-to-designate,Wolf: One Person Should Be Point Of Contact On Ebola Response,2014-10-06,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Frank Wolf,W000672,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Health Care Subcommittee, and Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA), House Appropriations Subcommittee Member, called on President Obama to designate a single, senior advisor responsible for coordinating all U.S. agencies and policies involving the international and domestic response to Ebola. They have concerns that a clear organizational structure and chain of command for this interagency mission has not been established and explained by the Administration. As members of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees, Sen. Moran and Rep. Wolf want to make certain resources are allocated as efficiently as possible across the agencies responsible for the Ebola response in West Africa and disease control activities at home. Click here or see below for the full text of the letter: October 6, 2014 President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC  20500 Dear Mr. President, The Ebola outbreak in West Africa is a health crisis of massive proportions.  You have announced a government-wide response to address this crisis and help Africans before it becomes a threat to the United States.  This requires a global response and the U.S. needs to provide the necessary leadership to control and eliminate this outbreak.  We believe it is imperative that you designate a single, senior advisor who will be responsible for coordinating all U.S. agencies and policies involving the international and domestic response to Ebola.    As members of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees, we want to make sure resources are allocated most efficiently across the agencies responsible for the Ebola response in West Africa and disease control activities at home.  Therefore, we respectfully request responses to the following questions regarding interagency coordination involved in the international and domestic response efforts. Please describe, in detail, the organizational structure and chain of command for the entities participating in the interagency response, both on the ground in West Africa and domestically.  Has a joint interagency task force (JIATF) been established?  If so, please describe the organizations that are participating in the JIATF and explain the command and control decision process for daily operations.  Who currently, if anyone, is responsible for the coordination and deconfliction of U.S. programs and policies responding to Ebola? Has the Administration created a national strategy for countering Ebola similar to the existing National Strategy on Pandemic Influenza?  If not, is the Administration referencing the National Strategy on Pandemic Influenza as a guide for planning the response to Ebola in West Africa and domestically? With respect to the Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) role in the interagency response to Ebola, are existing Concept Plans (CONPLANs) or Concept of Operations planning for infectious diseases being utilized in the organization of military capabilities in West Africa?  For example, has the Administration referenced CONPLAN 3551-09 on pandemic influenza to determine requirements, responsibility, and recovery of civilians and military personnel involved in the interagency response to Ebola? What specific duties, missions, and responsibilities will be assigned to our nation’s servicemembers partaking in DoD’s role in daily operations in West Africa?   What actions is the Administration taking to make sure American travelers are safe from Ebola abroad and domestically?  Have enhanced screening techniques been implemented at U.S. airports?  Finally, given the broad policy challenges posed by this Ebola outbreak, we encourage you to consider bringing well-respected former Administration officials with a background in public health and international diplomacy to assist with this serious challenge, such as former Secretary of State Colin Powell, former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and former Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt.  By drawing on their expertise and international relationships, these respected statesmen could bolster your Administration’s efforts and help lead a united, global response to this serious threat to public health and security.  We would appreciate your responses to our requests by October 17, 2014.  It is critical we work together to stop the Ebola outbreak in West Africa and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the world.   Sincerely, Jerry Moran Frank R. Wolf",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030155500/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/595,GOODLATTE APPLAUDS LAUNCH OF 'MY E-VERIFY',2014-10-06,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE APPLAUDS LAUNCH OF 'MY E-VERIFY' This improvement to E-Verify will allow people to lock their SSN to prevent identity theft and fraud WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today launched “My E-Verify,” which helps prevent identity theft by providing a mechanism for individuals to lock their Social Security numbers so that it cannot be used by another person to get a job. “My E-Verify” is now available in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Mississippi, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. and will soon be rolled out to the rest of the country.  In June 2013, the House Judiciary Committee approved the Legal Workforce Act (H.R. 1772), authored by Congressman Lamar Smith (R-Texas). This bipartisan bill discourages illegal immigration by requiring all U.S. employers to check the work eligibility of newly hired employees though the E-Verify system. Additionally, the bill contains a provision requiring USCIS to create a mechanism to allow people to lock their own Social Security numbers for employment purposes.  House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte applauded the rollout of “My E-Verify” in the statement below: “With today’s launch of ‘My E-Verify,’ Americans now have an easy way to prevent people from using their Social Security numbers to work unlawfully in the United States. This is an important improvement that I have long supported to an already popular and successful program. This update is within USCIS’ authority to make, and I am pleased that USCIS has implemented one of the many good ideas put forth in legislation approved by the House Judiciary Committee. We should continue to build upon the successes of E-Verify and require all U.S. employers to use it to check the work eligibility of their newly hired employees. This would go a long way toward protecting jobs for Americans and legal immigrants and deterring people from coming to the United States illegally.” Created in 1996, E-Verify is a web-based program that checks the Social Security numbers or alien identification numbers of new hires against Social Security Administration and Department of Homeland Security records in order to eliminate fraudulent numbers and help ensure that new hires are genuinely eligible to work in the U.S.  The program quickly confirms 99.7 percent of work-eligible employees and takes less than two minutes to use. Today, over 550,000 American employers voluntarily use E-Verify. Outside evaluations have found that the vast majority of employers using E-Verify believe it to be an effective and reliable tool for checking the legal status of their employees.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397471,"Griffith, 60 Plus Association Discuss Harmful Impact of EPA Regs on Seniors",2014-10-02,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) - Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) joined members of the 60 Plus Association, including its Founder and Chairman Jim Martin, at an event unveiling a new study by energy economist Gene Trisko that finds high electric and energy prices are disproportionately impacting senior citizens throughout the United States.  Among the study’s findings: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations will increase electric prices at rates above the general rate of inflation. The suite of new regulations EPA is now pursuing inevitably will lead to ever‐higher utility prices for America's elderly population, exceeding the modest cost‐of living (COLA) adjustments that many 65+ retirees depend upon just to keep up with inflationary pressures. Energy costs are adversely impacting lower‐income seniors afflicted by health conditions, leading them to forego food for a day, reduce medical or dental care, and fail to pay utility bills (APPRISE, 2009). After the event, Griffith issued the following statement: “I have sought and continue seeking answers from EPA officials about the impacts their burdensome regulations will have not only on jobs and the economy, but also the impacts these policies will have on the poor and elderly through increased heating and cooling prices.  Based on their failure to answer my questions, it appears the risk to the health of people who might be unable to afford increased energy costs was not evaluated by the EPA in its endangerment finding for carbon dioxide.  I am left to believe theirs is a callous disregard for seniors and others.” “I cannot fathom the Administration’s refusal to acknowledge the impact these policies will have on electric reliability.  I cannot fathom how this Administration can push through policies that raise energy costs while suggesting that funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and similar programs be cut.  I cannot fathom the Administration’s callous disregard for the impact these policies will have on the most vulnerable in our society.  How will people needing this assistance that have had their energy costs increased by other policies from this Administration survive without these funds?” “Then-Senator Obama said in a 2008 editorial board meeting with the San Francisco Chronicle:  ‘When I was asked earlier about the issue of coal, you know, under my plan of a cap and trade system, electricity rates would necessarily skyrocket. Even regardless of what I say about whether coal is good or bad. Because I’m capping greenhouse gases, coal power plants, you know, natural gas, you name it, whatever the plants were, whatever the industry was, uh, they would have to retrofit their operations. That will cost money. They will pass that money on to consumers.’” “This comment has always troubled me.  When Obama said ‘consumers,’ he included you and me.  He included the senior citizens worried sick about how they’re going to cover the cost of food, medical bills, and yes, the light and heat bill each month.  He included the single moms trying to hold down a job, raise children, and pay their bills – such as the bill to keep the lights and heat on.” “The fight against these policies will – must – continue.  American families deserve stability and security.  The very consumers that President Obama’s policies are going to cost money are the middle class Americans seeking certainty and trying to get by in this stagnant economy.  And these consumers are among those people I must continue fighting for.” The study is attached. Related content: 2.9.11 VIDEO: Griffith Questions EPA Administrator Jackson about Impact of Regs on Americans' Health & Safety - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TueV3xWNEcA&list=UUzxqD7EY_Rdvbc0spbaYkJA 2.8.12 VIDEO: Griffith Discusses with EPA Official McCarthy the Impact of Regulations - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKdKN2G-x28&list=UUzxqD7EY_Rdvbc0spbaYkJA 6.29.2012 VIDEO: Griffith Discusses with EPA Official the Harmful Impact of EPA Regulations - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOdkUawk1vM&list=UUzxqD7EY_Rdvbc0spbaYkJA 6.29.2014 VIDEO: Griffith Grills EPA Official McCabe About Legality Of New Power Plant Regs - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43jlKRe1Qao&list=UUzxqD7EY_Rdvbc0spbaYkJA ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030155235/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/594,GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON RESIGNATION OF SECRET SERVICE DIRECTOR JULIA PIERSON,2014-10-01,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON RESIGNATION OF SECRET SERVICE DIRECTOR JULIA PIERSON WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following the resignation of Secret Service Director Julia Pierson, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte issued the statement below: “After several security failures that have undermined Americans’ confidence in the Secret Service’s ability to protect the President, it’s clear that the agency needs a change in leadership. However, many of these failures happened prior to Ms. Pierson’s tenure as director. It’s clear that we need a thorough review of the agency to identify systemic problems and implement solutions to prevent such security lapses from happening again in the future. With that in mind, the House Judiciary Committee, which has primary jurisdiction over the numerous functions of the Secret Service, including the protection of the President, will hold both public and classified hearings on the agency in November. It is critical that the Secret Service effectively identify, intercept, and disrupt threats to the President of the United States.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141003023246/http://wolf.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wolf-urges-holder-to-investigate-oklahoma-beheading-as-terrorist-attack,Wolf Urges Holder To Investigate Oklahoma Beheading As Terrorist Attack And Not Dismiss As Workplace Violence,2014-09-30,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Frank Wolf,W000672,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. (September 30, 2014) – Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA), chairman of the House Appropriations subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice, today sent the following letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder asking him to investigate the recent beheading in Oklahoma as a terrorist attack and to not just quickly dismiss it as workplace violence like was done in the Fort Hood terrorist attack in 2009: The Honorable Eric H. Holder, Jr. Attorney General U.S. Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Ave NW Rm 5111 Washington DC 20530 Dear Attorney General Holder: Later today, the Cleveland County, Oklahoma district attorney's office is expected to seek charges of murder and assault with a deadly weapon against Alton Nolen for his beheading of a woman and stabbing of another at a food processing plant in Oklahoma last week.  I am writing today to urge the Justice Department to continue to investigate this decapitation as terrorism and not be quick to just dismiss this as ""workplace violence,"" as this administration notoriously did in the case of the 2009 terrorist attack on Fort Hood, which left 13 dead and more than 30 wounded. It has been reported that over the past two years Nolen was becoming radicalized.  According to CNN, his Facebook page ""included images of Osama bin Laden and an apparent beheading,"" and his social media posts became ""almost exclusively related to Islam in April 2013 – shortly after he was released from prison.""  He also reportedly got into trouble at work for ""trying to convert co-workers to Islam,"" according to CNN. In the wake of the department's failure to ""connect the dots"" between Anwar Aulaqi and Fort Hood terrorist Nidal Hasan, it is more important than ever for you to make clear to the department's agents and attorneys that this is, in fact, terrorism and to determine whether this or other plots are part of an effort by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) or al Qaeda to radicalize Americans and direct attacks in the U.S. Whether the Nolen investigation ultimately shows that he communicated directly with terrorists abroad or was independently inspired by the recent ISIS beheading videos, there is no question that this attack represents a direct threat from radicalized Islamist extremists to the American people.  We cannot again let political correctness drive this investigation and prosecution, as this administration did in charging Fort Hood terrorist Nidal Hasan with ""workplace violence"" instead of terrorism.  Then, as now, authorities sought to downplay the Islamic radicalization of the perpetrator in the months leading up to the attack, as well as any outside influence from terrorist groups.  As we all know now, Anwar Aulaqi played a key role in the radicalization of Hasan and al Qaeda propaganda motivated his terrorist attack – something the FBI failed to connect prior to the attack, as detailed in the Webster Commission report.  Over the last several years, I have met, spoken with and corresponded with a number of the family members of the victims and survivors of the Fort Hood attack.  Each has been adversely impacted by the administration's misguided prosecution, which resulted in the denial of many of the benefits they would have received if the attack had been designated as terrorism. However, to a person, they all also feel the government has denied them an honest representation of Hasan's motivations for his attack.  This injustice continues to this day, as Hasan just last month asked ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghadadi to make him a citizen of the so-called ""Islamic State"" – yet the U.S. government still doesn't recognize his attack as an act of terrorism.  It would be bad enough if this political correctness was limited to Fort Hood, but we have seen a number of examples over the last decade where cases that should have been charged as terrorism were instead treated as criminal matters: Ali Muhammad Brown's August 2014 murder of a 19 year-old New Jersey man allegedly committed in retaliation for U.S. actions in the Middle East; Carlos Bledsoe's attack on a U.S. Army recruiting station in Little Rock, Arkansas in 2009; and Mohammed Reza Taheri-azar's 2006 attack on pedestrians in Chapel Hill, North Carolina where he declared himself a jihadist acting against the U.S.  These are just a few examples of the government failing to acknowledge the Islamist terrorist motivation of these deadly attacks.  We should avoid going down this path with Nolen.  His attack is the latest incident in a string of horrific beheading attacks, which are an emerging hallmark of radical Islamist terrorism, whether in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Middle East, Europe, and now, here in the United States.  For more than a decade, beheadings have been used by al Qaeda to draw attention to their murder of Westerners, such as journalist Daniel Pearl in Pakistan in 2002, contractor Nicholas Berg in Iraq in 2004 and British Army soldier Lee Rigby in London in 2013, as well as to strike fear in their opponents.  More recently, this heinous act has been embraced by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) as they have released gruesome videos of the beheading of U.S. and British journalists, as well as less well known videos displaying scores of Syrian soldiers' heads on pikes.  As some have noted in recent days, Nolen's attack marks the first time a jihadist has committed a beheading on American soil, a deeply troubling milestone.   As The Washington Post's Walter Pincus this morning pointed out, ISIS' ability to broadcast its messages of violence around the globe instantaneously is part of a campaign to radicalize, recruit and mobilize more terrorists.  Pincus notes, ISIS is ""active on social media, it has pamphlets, weekly illustrated magazines, billboards, T-shirts, baseball hats and even propaganda offices in Syria and Iraq. The Islamic State has expanded the message machine, too, particularly since the United States began its air attacks against the terrorist group's forces in Iraq on Aug. 8.""  This is all to instill fear in Americans.  Consider this from Pincus' piece this morning: “One of the most recent examples of Islamic State propaganda came in a Sept. 21 speech by its chief spokesman, Abu Muhammad al-Adnani, broadcast in Arabic, translated into many languages and placed on social media around the world. “Adnani sprinkles his 42-minute, 12-page speech with disparaging descriptions of U.S. officials that are bound to be circulated among jihadist fighters, with whom they will resonate.  Obama is called a 'mule of the Jews,' and Secretary of State John F. Kerry is called an ‘'uncircumcised old geezer.’ “Addressing Americans, Adnani says: ‘The Islamic State did not institute a war against you, as your governments and media try to make you believe.’ “He adds that the United States 'will pay the price' when its economy collapses and 'you will pay the price when your sons are sent to wage a war against us and they return to you as disabled amputees, or inside coffins or mentally ill.’ “Then he adds that Americans, ‘will pay the price as you walk on your streets, turning right and left, fearing the Muslims. You will not feel secure even in your bedrooms. You will pay the price when this crusade of yours collapses and thereafter we will strike you in your homeland you will never be able to harm anyone afterwards.’” We owe it to Traci Johnson and the family of Colleen Hufford to acknowledge this brutal killing as an act of terror committed by a man radicalized and influenced by terrorist groups like al Qaeda and ISIS.  The department also has an obligation to ensure it never again repeats the mistakes of Fort Hood by allowing political correctness to prevent action from being taken to stop a would-be jihadist.  I hope you and the department will do the right thing, rather than repeat the shameful mistakes of the Fort Hood investigation and prosecution.   Best wishes. Sincerely,                                                       Frank R. Wolf Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030155501/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/593,GOODLATTE PRAISES ENACTMENT OF BILL THAT PROTECTS SEXUAL ASSAULT SURVIVORS,2014-09-30,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE PRAISES ENACTMENT OF BILL THAT PROTECTS SEXUAL ASSAULT SURVIVORS WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, the President signed a bipartisan bill into law that protects sexual assault victims and helps remove criminals from our streets. The Debbie Smith Reauthorization Act of 2014 (H.R. 4323), introduced by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte and Congresswoman Karen Bass (D-Calif.), reauthorizes a federal grant program for state and local governments to reduce the backlog of rape kits through 2019. The program was set to expire today. The House of Representatives approved this bill by voice vote on April 7, 2014 and the Senate approved it by unanimous consent earlier this month. Chairman Goodlatte praised the enactment of the Debbie Smith Reauthorization Act in the statement below:  “On the eve of a critical program’s expiration, I am pleased that the House bill reauthorizing the Debbie Smith Act has been signed into law so that we can continue to expedite the processing of DNA test kits across the country. Each of these DNA test kits represents a life that has been shattered by the horrors of rape. Sadly, we can’t take away the pain and fear these women have experienced, but we can provide necessary resources used to solve these crimes so that they don’t have to live in fear waiting for their perpetrators to be found and brought to justice.  “This federal grant program is aptly named after a brave woman who had the courage to tell her story and advocate tirelessly for other victims of sexual assault. Debbie Smith is a true hero and I am proud that Congress has stood by her and other survivors to ensure that DNA analysis is completed quickly.” The original Debbie Smith Act was introduced by Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) after rape survivor Debbie Smith testified before Congress in June 2001 about using DNA evidence to solve rape cases. In 1989, Debbie was kidnapped from her home in Williamsburg, Virginia, and dragged into the woods where she was raped. As Debbie notes in her letter to Chairman Goodlatte, the traumatic effect of the assault remained with her and her family for over six years, until her attacker’s DNA sample was finally removed from the state’s backlog and included in the national DNA database. The suspect was immediately linked to her rape, convicted of multiple felonies, and then sentenced to two life terms plus 25 years in prison.  The Debbie Smith Act was enacted in 2004 and since then, millions of dollars in federal funding have been appropriated under the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grant Program to process the hundreds of thousands of DNA evidence kits. As of July 2014, the FBI national database included nearly 572,000 forensic profiles from crime scene samples.  This information has aided more than 242,000 investigations nationwide, including nearly 9,000 in Virginia alone.  Earlier this year, Debbie joined Chairman Goodlatte and others calling on Congress to reauthorize the Debbie Smith Act; click here for photos.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394698,Ninth District Traveling Staff Office Hours for October,2014-09-29,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Griffith’s Ninth District STAFF will be available at the following locations during the month of October: October 1, 2014 Smyth County:     10:00 am – 12:00 pm Town Council Chambers 138 West Main Street Marion, VA Covington:     10:00 am – 12:00 pm Covington City Hall City Hall Conference Room 333 W. Locust Street Covington, VA Craig County:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Craig County Administration Building 108 Court Street New Castle, VA Bristol:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bristol VA Public Library Upstairs Conference Room 701 Goode Street Bristol, VA October 3, 2014 Martinsville:   11:00 am – 1:00 pm NCI Room 106 – Classroom Building 30 Franklin Street Martinsville, VA Lee County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Lee County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room – Suite U101 33640 Main Street Jonesville, VA Norton:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Norton City Council Chambers 618 Virginia Avenue NW Norton, VA October 8, 2014 Radford:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Radford Public Library Meeting Room 30 West Main Street Radford, VA Pulaski County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Pulaski County Library Meeting Room 60 3rd Street NW Pulaski, VA October 9, 2014 Grayson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Grayson County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room – Suite 206 129 Davis Street Independence, VA Russell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Southwest Virginia Technology Development Center 141 Highland Drive Lebanon, VA Tazewell County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bluefield Town Hall – Council Chambers 112 Huffard Drive Bluefield, VA Galax:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Galax Municipal Building Conference Room 111 E. Main Street Galax, VA October 14, 2014  Giles County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Pearisburg Town Hall 112 Tazewell Street Pearisburg, VA Salem:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Salem Library 28 East Main Street Salem, VA October 15, 2014 Henry County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bassett Historical Society   3964 Fairystone Parkway Bassett, VA Bland County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bland County Courthouse Admin. Office Room 200 612 Main Street Bland, VA Wythe County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Wythe County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room 245 South 4th Street Wytheville, VA Patrick County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Patrick County Administration Building Conference Room 106 Rucker Street Stuart, VA October 16, 2014 Scott County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Community Services Building Community Room 190 Beech Street Gate City, VA Wise County:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Big Stone Gap Federal Courthouse 3rd Floor Room 303 332 Wood Avenue E Big Stone Gap, VA October 17, 2014 Carroll County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Carroll County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room 605 – 1 Pine Street Hillsville, VA Floyd County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Floyd County Library 321 W. Main Street Floyd, VA October 21, 2014 Tazewell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Richlands Town Hall 200 Washington Square Richlands, VA Buchanan County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Grundy Town Hall 1185 Plaza Drive Grundy, VA October 24, 2014 Alleghany County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Clifton Forge Library Conference Room 535 Church Street Clifton Forge, VA Dickenson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Dickenson Center for Education & Research 818 Happy Valley Drive Clintwood, VA Roanoke County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Roanoke Library Hollins Branch 6624 Peters Creek Road Roanoke, VA Wise County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Big Stone Gap Federal Courthouse 3rd Floor Room 303 322 Wood Avenue E Big Stone Gap, VA October 28, 2014 Pulaski County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Dublin Town Hall Route 100, 1 mile North of I-81 Dublin, VA  ** Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394734,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 9.29.14,2014-09-29,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Defeating ISIS – An Update In previous columns I have noted I am of the belief the President does not have the authority to wage an extended war on the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) without Congressional approval.  I agree we must see that ISIS is destroyed.  Unlike Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH), I believe like Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) that Congress must debate and decide whether or not the United States goes to war or, alternatively, consider its kissing cousin, an authorization for the use of military force. On September 28, the Speaker and Senator Kaine on Sunday news shows discussed their positions.  Speaker Boehner stated he would call Congress back into session to vote if the President were to request an authorization vote, but the Speaker expressed his belief the President has the authority to carry out these airstrikes without Congressional authorization.  I disagree!  Senator Kaine stated, “[The President] does not have the Article Two constitutional authority to do this entire mission without Congress, and neither of the authorizations passed by Congress in 2001 or 2002 cover it.  We should be debating and voting on this entire mission.”  Senator Kaine also said, “It really concerns me that the President would assert he has the ability to do this unilaterally when as a candidate for President he made very plain that the President cannot unilaterally start a war without Congress.  He was very clear about that.”  I agree! The President is Commander in Chief, but it is the constitutional duty of Congress to declare war.  Fast and Furious – An Update “Calling the government’s arguments for ‘even more time…unconvincing,’ a federal court has ordered the Justice Department to turn over a list of withheld Fast and Furious [gun-walking operation] documents by Oct. 22,” wrote investigative reporter Sharyl Attkisson.  “Attorney General Eric Holder had sought a delay until the day before the midterm elections.” As you may recall, in June 2012, my colleagues and I in the House of Representatives voted to hold the Attorney General in contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with a subpoena issued by the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform requesting documents in the Fast and Furious gun-walking operation, as it appeared that he misled Congress. Fast and Furious was poorly-designed, and I am of the opinion it was designed in part to politically move Americans toward more gun control.  We must see what these documents reveal once they are turned over.  The question raised by that court decision and Holder’s resignation is “are they linked?”. Recognizing an American Hero As your Congressman, I regularly receive information on remarkable things, events, and people.  One such person brought to my attention recently is Sergeant Larry Freeman of Pulaski.  In action in 1966, when his Squad Leader was killed and despite being wounded himself, Sergeant Freeman took charge of the squad, attending to the wounded, repositioning the squad, and helping to redistribute weapons and ammunition.  It became apparent that the squad would have to disengage.  Sergeant Freeman, exposing himself to enemy fire, began informing survivors that they would soon be disengaging to transition to another platoon’s position.  Simultaneously, he was also assisting with the extraction of wounded and continuing to fight off enemy efforts. Sergeant Freeman was recommended for a Silver Star for these actions.  He did not know he had been recommended until a couple of years ago when his old lieutenant found paperwork that was supposed to be submitted back in 1966.  This year, his Silver Star was at long last approved, and he was presented this high honor at a ceremony held Sunday, September 28 in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.    Though his recognition is long overdue, it is an opportunity to once again thank Sergeant Freeman for his service, dedication, and courage.  Vietnam veterans like Sergeant Freeman earned our respect and gratitude, even if the country did not give it to them at the time.  I am very glad to see this recognition work out for Sergeant Freeman.  Though Sergeant Freeman was able to track down his medal without our assistance, we are able to help you or those you know receive the military honors they have earned.  If you, a friend, or a loved one are owed medals from service, please do not hesitate to contact my office at (276) 525-1405 for assistance. As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141030155503/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/592,GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON HOLDER RESIGNATION,2014-09-25,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON HOLDER RESIGNATION WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) released this statement following the announcement that Attorney General Eric Holder will resign. Chairman Goodlatte:  “I welcome the news that Eric Holder will step down as Attorney General.  From Operation Fast and Furious to his misleading testimony before the House Judiciary Committee regarding the Department’s dealings with members of the media and his refusal to appoint a special counsel to investigate the IRS’ targeting of conservative groups, Mr. Holder has consistently played partisan politics with many of the important issues facing the Justice Department.   “I hope that the next Attorney General will take seriously his role as the nation’s top law enforcement officer, working with Congress to ensure that the laws of our land are followed instead of being a roadblock on the path to justice.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394305,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 9.22.14,2014-09-22,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bipartisan Agreement: Good Process, Good Policy / Bad Process, No Policy On many occasions, I have taken issue with the modern interpretation of the Senate filibuster rule.  The historical rule – as depicted in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington when Jimmy Stewart holds the floor with an impassioned filibuster that slowly changes the minds of his fellow senators – is a good process.  But starting in the 1970’s, a senator can filibuster by merely making a request (and the senator’s identity doesn’t even have to be made public). I strongly believe that this modern filibuster rule is a threat to the long-term stability of the Republic, and that it devalues the role of Congress.  It would appear that liberal Democrat Congressman John Larson (CT-01) agrees with me. On September 17, Congressman Larson and I were among a number of our colleagues who discussed how to streamline and make Congress more efficient at a Members’ Day hearing held by the panel responsible for the process, procedures, and internal operations of the House, relations between the two houses of Congress, and the relations between Congress and the Judiciary. Congressman Larson, who has been serving in Congress since 1999, noted how rare it is for Congress to complete anything in regular order.  “The reason we don’t,” he said at the hearing, “is that the Senate figured out a while ago that it’s in their best interest that there not be regular order.” Congressman Larson stated that even when Democrats were in control of both the House and the Senate, nearly 500 House-passed bills (70 percent of which he said were bipartisan) were never taken up in the Senate. How many House-passed bills are currently awaiting action in the Senate, you ask?  387. As a potential solution, Congressman Larson proposed that any bill originating in the Senate be subject to the same rules it was subjected to in the Senate upon arrival in the House.  What that means is senators’ bills would be subject to a hold being placed on the bill in the House of Representatives until 60 percent of the House agreed to end debate on that measure. I may not agree with Congressman Larson on everything, but what an innovative idea!  I enthusiastically “seconded” this concept at the hearing.  The Senate probably won’t like this, but I believe this will force the Senators to return to their pre-1970's rule.  More bills will be voted on, more compromises will be reached, and I believe the public will have a more positive view of Congress in the process. At the hearing, I proposed a change that will help us limit federal spending, among other things.  I will continue pushing for these and other improvements to Congressional rules. Angels in Adoption For the past 16 years, the nonpartisan Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) has hosted the Angels in Adoption program to increase awareness of the positive impact adoption can have and also honor those from throughout the country who are doing great things on behalf of children without homes. Three families from the Ninth District were suggested to us by the Virginia Department of Social Services as candidates for the Angels in Adoption awards.  At their recommendation, we forwarded these families’ stories to the CCAI selection committee for consideration in this year’s program.  While all three of these families have certainly made a difference, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick and Emily Herndon of Salem were named by CCAI the Ninth District of Virginia’s 2014 Angels in Adoption. In 2012, the Herndons became foster parents to a young man named Calvin.  Just over one year later, soon after Calvin’s sixteenth birthday, the adoption process was finalized.  “I’d like to introduce you to our son,” the Herndons wrote in their blog.  “Our real son. … Born: 1/20/96.  Adopted: 2/12/13.” But there’s more!  The Herndons are continuing to serve as foster parents and are hoping to one day adopt a young girl, Elizabeth, whom they are currently fostering. Mr. and Mrs. Herndon traveled to Washington, D.C. the week of September 15 in order to be officially honored as 2014 Angels in Adoption.  I was fortunate enough to spend time with them while they were there.  They are kind-hearted, compassionate people, and I am deeply thankful for their dedication and willingness to bring these children in their lives. Best wishes to the Herndons and all Ninth District heroes who open their hearts and their homes or advocate on behalf of children needing a forever family. As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141011005123/http://goodlatte.house.gov:80/press_releases/591,JUDICIARY REPUBLICANS DEMAND PRESIDENT OBAMA REVEAL IMMIGRATION RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE PUBLIC,2014-09-22,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"JUDICIARY REPUBLICANS DEMAND PRESIDENT OBAMA REVEAL IMMIGRATION RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE PUBLIC WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Republicans today sent a letter to President Barack Obama demanding that he disclose to the American people the recommendations he has received for the anticipated executive actions he will take to further dismantle our nation’s immigration laws. President Obama originally intended to take more actions to curb the enforcement of our immigration laws by the end of this summer but decided to postpone taking these actions until after the November midterm elections. The letter, led by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte, is signed by Representatives Howard Coble (R-N.C.), Spencer Bachus (R-Ala.), Ted Poe (R-Texas), Tom Marino (R-Pa.), George Holding (R-N.C.), Doug Collins (R-Ga.), Ron DeSantis (R-Fla.), Jason Smith (R-Mo.), Trent Franks (R-Az.), Blake Farenthold (R-Texas), Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.), Raul Labrador (R-Idaho), Lamar Smith (R-Texas), Steve King (R-Iowa), Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah), Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wisc.), Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), Louie Gohmert (R-Texas), Randy Forbes (R-Va.), Steve Chabot (R-Ohio), and Jim Jordan (R-Ohio). Below is the text of the letter. “Dear President Obama, “We write requesting that you disclose information to the American people about the anticipated actions you plan to take by the end of the year to further dismantle our nation’s immigration laws. “In the spring, you asked Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson to perform an “inventory” of the Department of Homeland Security’s current immigration enforcement practices “to see how it can conduct enforcement more humanely within the confines of the law.”  Within the last week you indicated that you have begun to receive some of these recommendations.  You also indicated that you would wait to issue any executive orders or otherwise take action on the recommendations until after the November elections.   “Since you have postponed these executive actions until after the midterm elections, you will have ample time to consider the ideas put forth by Secretary Johnson and others before you make any decisions to fundamentally alter how our immigration laws are enforced, grant immigration benefits to millions of unlawful immigrants, or otherwise modify how our immigration laws are interpreted.  You have made clear that you will take such actions without the passage of any legislation by Congress, and therefore without the input of the American public’s representatives.  Additionally, it has been widely reported that you and your Administration have been meeting with select interest groups regarding their demands for administrative action on immigration.  As a result, the American people have been cut out of a process that could dramatically affect their lives.   “Whether it’s now or November, it is never acceptable for the Executive Branch to ignore the Constitution and unilaterally give amnesty to unlawful immigrants. Regarding actions you are planning that you believe would comply with the Constitution, the least the Administration can do is give Americans the opportunity to see the recommendations that you are considering before you take any actions.  Rather than attempt to hide these actions from the American people until after the midterm elections, Americans should be given the chance to come to their own conclusions as to the merits of these recommendations.  They can then exercise their constitutional right to petition the federal government and let you know their opinions. “We therefore ask that you immediately release to the public all the recommendations that you have received for administrative action – from Secretary Johnson, from Attorney General Holder, and from the interest groups with whom you and your Administration have met.  And we ask that you continue to release additional recommendations as you receive them.  This could go some way toward repairing the damage to the American political process caused by the secrecy with which your Administration has considered changes to our immigration system.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140922193521/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/590,GOODLATTE CONGRATULATES WARREN COUNTY ON AVTEX DEAL,2014-09-19,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE CONGRATULATES WARREN COUNTY ON AVTEX DEAL WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bob Goodlatte released a statement today congratulating Warren County on the Avtex deal. He will participate in the Avtex Community Day and Commemoration Ceremony at the former Avtex Fibers Superfund site in Front Royal on Saturday: “Saturday’s Commemoration Ceremony is, without question, a long time coming. Many have worked diligently over the past 25 years to make this a reality, including Front Royal and Warren County government and community leaders that I had the opportunity to work with on this project. I thank them for their dedication. It certainly was not easy, and I know that there were many obstacles to overcome before reaching this day. It is good to know that this property, which was once unusable, is now prepared to serve not only as a prime site for new business, but also as a place for the community to enjoy. I look forward to the redevelopment process and the new economic development and job opportunities that this is anticipated to bring to Warren County.”   Background: Following Congressman Frank Wolf’s work for many years to help restore the Avtex site, Congressman Goodlatte worked on behalf of Warren County and Front Royal to navigate federal red tape and see that the stakeholders reached an agreement to redevelop the former Superfund site.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140919061934/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/588,HOUSE PASSES THE JOBS FOR AMERICA ACT,2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"HOUSE PASSES THE JOBS FOR AMERICA ACT VIDEO: Goodlatte Speaks on The Jobs for America Act Congressman Goodlatte’s remarks on the House floor in support of H.R. 4, the Jobs for America Act (as prepared): Mr. Speaker, In every state across this country, and most certainly in the Commonwealth of Virginia, there are folks still looking for good, full-time jobs, and businesses who want to hire them but can’t for fear of government imposed regulations that increase expenses.  The Administration’s tax, regulate, and spend response to this problem hasn’t worked and it is incumbent upon us to enact necessary reforms to restore the American economy. The legislation we consider today includes many provisions to combat excessive regulations that have already been passed by the House of Representatives and await action in the Senate, including provisions to restore the 40 hour work week; to permanently ban taxation of Internet access; to prevent secret settlement deals between federal bureaucrats and pro-regulatory plaintiffs in lawsuits; to require bureaucrats to consider the costs of regulations to small businesses; to require agencies to adopt the least costly method of implementing the law; and to require federal agencies to submit major regulations to Congress for approval.  We know these provisions will help spur our economy and create jobs. America’s labor force participation rate has essentially remained stagnant for the past several months and job creation and economic growth continue to fall short of what is needed to produce a real and durable recovery in our country.  It is imperative that we again take action to pass these common-sense reforms, return discouraged workers to full-time jobs, and restore America to prosperity. I urge the Senate to stop stalling and to join us in this effort. ### HOUSE PASSES THE JOBS FOR AMERICA ACT WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today the House of Representatives passed the Jobs for America Act, the House’s bipartisan jobs package comprised of 15 bills that previously passed the House this Congress. Six Judiciary Committee bills were included in the package. Together, these Judiciary Committee bills would place a ban on Internet access taxes, encourage accountability in government by requiring Congressional approval for new major regulations, and reform government by reducing unnecessary red tape.  Chairman Goodlatte praised today’s vote by the House of Representatives: “I am pleased that the House passed six Judiciary Committee bills in the jobs package today. America needs these solutions. The effects of excessive, unnecessary regulation and taxes are real for American families who are impacted by high prices, fewer job opportunities and a less competitive American and who feel the government digging deeper and deeper into their pocketbooks. I urge the Senate and President Obama to take action on the jobs package and make these important bills the Law of the Land.” More information about these bills may be found below. H.R. 3086, the Permanent Internet Tax Freedom Act: Introduced by Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.), this legislation permanently bans state taxes on Internet access and multiple or discriminatory state taxes on e-commerce. Over the past 16 years, Congress has temporarily extended this ban on states taxing Internet access on multiple occasions. The measures have been met with enormous bipartisan support – only five “no” votes were cast in the history of these renewals in the House and Senate. This bill makes this ban permanent. Without this legislation, the ban would end this year. H.R. 2122, the Regulatory Accountability Act: Introduced by Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.), this legislation requires federal bureaucrats to think through new regulations better and with more public input and to adopt the least costly method of effectively implementing the law. H.R. 2542, the Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act: Introduced by Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law Subcommittee Chairman Spencer Bachus (R-Ala.), this legislation requires federal bureaucrats to better consider and lower adverse impacts on small businesses before they issue new regulations. H.R. 367, the REINS Act: Introduced by Congressman Todd Young (R-Ind.), this legislation requires federal agencies to submit major regulations to Congress for approval and guarantees that no major regulations become effective until Congress approves them. This bill holds federal bureaucrats accountable for imposing burdens on America’s economy and strengthens our system of checks and balances. H.R. 2804, the All Economic Regulations are Transparent Act: Introduced by Congressman George Holding (R-N.C.), this legislation requires bureaucrats to provide more timely, detailed information and greater transparency regarding planned or proposed regulations and prevents new rules from taking effect if they fail to do so. H.R. 1493, the Sunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act: Introduced by Congressman Doug Collins (R-Ga.), this legislation prevents secret settlement deals between federal agencies and pro-regulatory plaintiffs that result in new federal regulations for everyone.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140919061940/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/589,HOUSE PASSES COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY PACKAGE,2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"HOUSE PASSES COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY PACKAGE VIDEO: Goodlatte Speaks on American Energy Solutions Congressman Goodlatte’s remarks on the House floor in support of H.R. 2, the American Energy Solutions for Lower Costs and More American Jobs Act (as prepared): Mr. Speaker, Energy is vital to every aspect of American life.  Working families, retirees, and businesses large and small are all dependent upon reliable and affordable energy.  An unwelcome increase in the electric bill leaves many families no other option but to cut elsewhere.  For businesses, higher energy costs mean less money to invest in jobs or expansion. As business costs increase, so does the price of goods down the line, triggering a chain reaction felt throughout the economy.    Unfortunately, the Obama Administration’s policies are contributing to the rise in energy costs by discouraging exploration of domestic resources, imposing additional regulatory hurdles on energy creation, and attempting to bypass Congress to implement economically devastating policies like cap and trade.    Today, Congress reminds the Obama Administration about what they seem to have forgotten - that America’s economy is intrinsically linked to affordable energy.  This bill encourages us to expand energy production.  I am particularly pleased that it includes provisions I have worked on for a long time to move forward -- a lease sale off the Virginia coast.  This sale will provide necessary energy resources for our nation, while providing a significant boost to the economy of the Commonwealth of Virginia.  It also includes other important provisions, like the Judiciary- approved, RAPID Act, which cuts through the government red tape impeding development of our resources.  Today’s bill helps to ensure that America is an energy leader, utilizing our resources to strengthen the reliability and affordability of energy for American consumers. During this economic slow-down we must encourage more legislation like the American Energy Solutions for Lower Costs and More American Jobs Act, adopting policies that seek to rebuild our economy and create more jobs.  I urge all members to vote for this legislation that ensures our energy security while boosting our economy.    ### House Passes Judiciary Committee Bill in Comprehensive Energy Package WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today the House of Representatives passed the American Energy Solutions for Lowest Costs and More American Jobs Act, the House’s comprehensive energy package comprised of 14 bills with bipartisan support that previously passed the House this Congress. A Judiciary Committee bill was included in the package, H.R. 2641, the RAPID Act.  The RAPID Act recognizes that delay and uncertainty in the review process for new construction permits undermine job creation, wages for hardworking Americans, and economic growth. This bill streamlines the approval process for federally-funded and federally-permitted infrastructure, energy and other construction projects and delivers faster approvals. Chairman Goodlatte: “Unnecessary red tape means fewer jobs for hardworking Americans, higher energy prices and a less competitive America. The RAPID Act, passed today in the House’s comprehensive energy package, sets hard deadlines for federal construction permits, cracks down on prolonged lawsuits, and streamlines the permit approval process. By making these necessary reforms, the RAPID Act acts as a job creator for Americans across the country and opens opportunities for Americans to find work while building our nation’s infrastructure for the future.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=544,Wittman: Budget Process is Broken,2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement after opposing legislation to temporarily extend current spending levels for the federal government until December: When Congress recessed in August, I demanded that the House remain in Washington to complete the important work expected of us by our constituents. Chief among that unfinished business is the need to get our government funded responsibly. And yet again, Congress finds itself today making a temporary, short-sighted decision at the last minute. The simple truth is that our budget process is broken. Congress absolutely must return to the business of regular order, with regular passage of budget resolutions and appropriations bills. There is plenty of time to remain in Washington to get this done with a responsible, long-term outlook in mind, and I could not support this short-sighted approach to the funding of the essential functions of our government. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393889,Griffith Statement on ISIS Amendment Vote,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) today issued the following statement after voting in favor of an amendment to the Continuing Resolution related to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS): “ISIS is a very dangerous terrorist organization, and action must be taken in order to defeat them.  President Obama requested language be added to the Continuing Resolution in order to train and assist forces to fight ISIS, such as the Free Syrian Army.” “That being said, Congress must not abdicate its responsibility on this important issue.  I believe we should take additional action, but that was not an option available to me today.  I would have preferred an opportunity to vote on language similar to the proposal introduced today in the Senate by Virginia Senator Tim Kaine.  His resolution is a narrow and specific authorization for the use of military force against ISIS.” “I and some other lawmakers in the House have been discussing an approach akin to Senator Kaine’s.  Given the fluid nature of the situation, there may be a time we can pass a similar proposal."" “Like others, I have reservations that the President’s strategy is not well enough defined.  Does he envision there will be troops on the ground provided by Saudi Arabia or other Middle Eastern Islamic countries to whom the threat of ISIS is closer than the threat to the United States?  Some Middle Eastern Islamic nations have pledged money, but to effectively combat ISIS, they need to have soldiers on the field of battle.” “While many questions are yet to be answered, I believe this amendment is an acceptable first step.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918195152/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/587,"GOODLATTE, GOWDY, CHAFFETZ PRAISE SEC. JOHNSON'S DECISION TO KEEP BAN ON LIBYANS TRAINING AS PILOTS AND NUCLEAR SCIENTISTS IN U.S.",2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE, GOWDY, CHAFFETZ PRAISE SEC. JOHNSON'S DECISION TO KEEP BAN ON LIBYANS TRAINING AS PILOTS AND NUCLEAR SCIENTISTS IN U.S. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following pressure from House Judiciary Committee Republicans, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Jeh Johnson announced today at a congressional hearing that he will not lift a 30-year old regulation banning Libyans from coming to the United States to attend flight school, work in aircraft maintenance or flight operations, or to study or seek training in nuclear science. The prohibition on Libyans from studying nuclear science or training as pilots in the United States was originally put in place in the 1980s after the wave of terrorist incidents involving Libyans. A year ago, the Obama Administration began the process of lifting this longstanding regulation, claiming that the United States’ relationship with Libya has since “normalized.” Last week, the House Judiciary Committee approved in a bipartisan vote the Protecting the Homeland Act (H.R. 5401) – a bill authored by Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.), House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte, and Oversight and Government Reform National Security Subcommittee Chairman Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah) – to stop the Obama Administration from lifting this longstanding prohibition.  Chairman Goodlatte, Subcommittee Chairman Gowdy, and Congressman Chaffetz praised Secretary Johnson’s decision in the joint statement below:   “We are pleased that Secretary Johnson has chosen common sense over the Obama Administration’s foolish plan, but this should never have been a hard decision to make. Given the ongoing terrorist activity in Libya, there is no reason that the Obama Administration should have ever contemplated lifting a decades-old ban on Libyans coming to our country to train as pilots or nuclear scientists. The fact is that Libya’s government remains unstable today and the country is becoming more dangerous as rival rebel groups battle each other for control of Libya’s cities. It’s necessary that we keep this ban on Libyans in place so that we protect Americans and our national security from threats in Libya. Despite assurances from Secretary Johnson that he won’t lift this ban any time soon, the House plans to move forward with legislation to prevent future Administrations from changing this policy.”   Last week, the Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA), which represents 51,000 pilots who fly for 31 airlines in the U.S. and Canada, expressed concern about the Obama Administration lifting this regulation from the books. In their letter to Chairman Goodlatte, Captain Lee Moak notes the dangerous conditions in Libya and states that “given the political instability in Libya and the transitory nature of the government, ALPA is concerned that information relevant to a background check on Libyan nationals would be unreliable if not entirely unavailable.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918195159/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/586,GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON CONSTITUTION DAY,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT ON CONSTITUTION DAY WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bob Goodlatte issued the following statement in honor of Constitution Day: “Two hundred twenty-seven years ago on this day, September 17, 1787, the founders of our country signed the United States Constitution that laid the foundation for our freedoms today.  “Thanks to the 39 delegates who stood up for freedom and democracy, this document has stood the test of time, and continues to safeguard America by providing the necessary checks and balances for our country hundreds of years later. “This year on Constitution Day, we are concerned whether the President is adhering to his constitutional duty of ‘faithfully executing the laws’ in light of laws he has circumvented or refused to enforce. The Constitution is very clear: it is Congress’ job to write our laws and it is the President’s duty to enforce them.  “As an elected representative in Congress, I have taken a solemn oath to uphold and defend the Constitution. Also, as Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee that has jurisdiction over issues pertaining to the U.S. Constitution, I have held hearings on this issue and cosponsored a bill that the House passed to stop the President’s power grab and to restore the balance to the separation of powers enshrined in our Constitution. “As we reflect with reverence on the oldest written constitution still in use today, let’s also not forget the dangers of an unchecked executive branch.” Congressman Goodlatte’s Address on Constitution Day",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918195203/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/585,GOODLATTE NAMES ROANOKE COUPLE 'ANGELS IN ADOPTION',2014-09-16,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE NAMES ROANOKE COUPLE 'ANGELS IN ADOPTION' WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Congressman Bob Goodlatte, a member of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, named Patrick and Judy Wheeler of Roanoke the Sixth District of Virginia’s 2014 “Angels in Adoption.”  The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute’s Angels in Adoption Program is designed to celebrate individuals, couples, or organizations from across the nation that have made an extraordinary contribution on behalf of children in need of homes. Members of Congress have the opportunity to honor one nominee from each congressional district per year who is making a difference in the lives of children. “Patrick and Judy Wheeler have a passion for adoption and a true heart for children in need,” said Congressman Goodlatte. “It is my honor to recognize them as this year’s ‘Angels in Adoption.’ Mrs. Wheeler recently said that ‘most people were thinking of retirement, but our hearts are with these children.’ Despite many challenges and long adoption processes, the Wheelers have blessed 11 young children with the loving home and opportunities they deserve. I am thankful for their willingness to bring these children into their family. This selfless act is truly to be commended.” Patrick and Judy Wheeler, who reside in Roanoke, have adopted seven children from China and three from Vietnam as well as one child from the Roanoke area. Eight of their adopted children are cleft affected and the Wheelers have ensured that these children receive the surgeries, treatment, and loving care that they need. The Wheelers also have two biological children and four grandchildren.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393572,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 9.15.14,2014-09-15,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Defeating the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) I agree with Senator Tim Kaine’s (D-VA) comments last week that, “I don't believe that the President has the authority to quote ‘go on offense’ and wage an open-ended war on [ISIS] without Congressional approval.”  ISIS is a dangerous terrorist organization, and the threat they pose is real and growing.  The evil being spread by ISIS must be stopped, and very serious discussions regarding the strategy to defeat and destroy ISIS are ongoing.  I agree with the President that we must take action.  When he proposed training forces on the ground, such as the Free Syrian Army, I believe this was a proper but perhaps too modest a plan.  Since then, a report out of the Middle East indicates that the Syrian rebels have entered into a non-aggression pact with ISIS.  No matter what his or her party, I want to be able to support our Commander in Chief, the President, when dealing with such a dangerous foreign entity.  But I have grave concerns that this plan won’t work unless President Obama can secure the commitment of Middle Eastern Islamic countries to put their soldiers into the battle against ISIS. Respectfully, I seek your prayers for discernment and your input as this situation continues. Protecting Health Care Choice On Thursday, September 11, the House of Representatives passed the Employee Health Care Protection Act (H.R. 3522) with my support.  This bill would allow health care plans that were on the group market in 2013 to continue to be offered through 2018, enabling more Americans to keep their health care plan if they like it. Despite being promised by President Obama and other supporters of Obamacare that “If you like your health care plan, you'll be able to keep your health care plan, period,” new reports last week indicate that up to 250,000 Virginians will be notified in the coming months that their plans will be cancelled for not complying with Obamacare.  Of course, these folks can replace these policies with Obamacare-compliant plans, but I and others suspect these plans will unfortunately have higher premiums and deductibles. I will continue working to see that more Americans are able to keep health care plans of their choice, and was pleased that the Employee Health Care Protection Act passed the House.  It is unfortunate that bills of this kind are even needed.  We wait for the Senate to act on this legislation and 371 others. House Condemns Unlawful Transfer of Taliban 5 I was disturbed by the Obama Administration’s exchange of five senior Taliban leaders from Guantanamo Bay to Qatar this summer, concerned that their release may put Americans’ safety at risk while also setting a troubling precedent on how the United States deals with terrorists.  To add insult to injury, President Obama failed to follow the law and notify Congress 30 days before any transfer of detainees from Guantanamo Bay.  Don’t just take my word on that:  as Politico reports, “…a Government Accountability Office [GAO] report released in August … concluded the Pentagon did in fact violate the law by not notifying Congress.  The GAO said the Pentagon spent $988,400 in unauthorized funds to transfer the detainees.” On September 9, I joined 248 of my colleagues – including 22 Democrats – in supporting H.Res.644, which condemned the Administration for not giving Congress at least 30 days’ notice of the swap as is required by law.  I support this and other efforts to hold accountable those that do not follow and/or enforce the laws as written. 100 Years of Graham High School Congratulations to the students, faculty, and alumni of Bluefield’s Graham High School, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary!  What an impressive milestone.  Over the years, the school’s great alumni have enjoyed championships including football, basketball, creative writing, and more.  I am confident that current and future Graham students will continue its legacy of success. As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918195246/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/584,GOODLATTE STATEMENT IN REMEMBRANCE OF 9/11,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE STATEMENT IN REMEMBRANCE OF 9/11 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bob Goodlatte released the following statement today in remembrance of the lives lost in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and the 2012 attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya: “September 11th is a day that we reflect with profound sadness and reverence upon the lives lost in terrorist attacks against the United States.  These are lives that were taken from us all too soon and they will not be forgotten.  My prayers are with their families. And yet, in this sadness, there is also a reminder of an intrinsic quality found in Americans – wherever there is tragedy, we see the law enforcement community, first responders, and even strangers on the street coming together to help those in harm’s way, just as we did in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks. “As we mark this somber anniversary, it is a reminder that we must also remain vigilant in the face of renewed threats to our nation. It’s true that this is a different world from the one we knew just 13 years ago. The attacks against our country both at home and abroad have changed our way of life in many ways and many American lives have been lost in the fight against terrorist threats and in the defense of our freedoms. But what has remained steadfast is the resilience of the American people and the truth that this nation will remain a beacon of freedom throughout the globe.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918195250/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/583,JUDICIARY COMMITTEE APPROVES THE PROTECTING THE HOMELAND ACT,2014-09-10,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"JUDICIARY COMMITTEE APPROVES THE PROTECTING THE HOMELAND ACT House Judiciary Committee Approves Bill Preventing Libyans from Training as Pilots and Nuclear Scientists in the U.S. WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House Judiciary Committee today approved by a vote of 21-11 the Protecting the Homeland Act (H.R. 5401), a bill authored by Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.), House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte, and Oversight and Government Reform National Security Subcommittee Chairman Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah), to stop the Obama Administration from lifting a 30-year prohibition on Libyans coming to the U.S. to attend flight school, to work in aviation maintenance or flight operations, or to study or seek training in nuclear science. In July, the Office of Management and Budget approved a final regulation to lift this decades-old policy. Once Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson signs this regulation, it will become effective unless further action is taken.  The Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA), which represents 51,000 pilots who fly for 31 airlines in the U.S. and Canada, today expressed strong support for H.R. 5401. In their letter to Chairman Goodlatte, Captain Lee Moak notes the dangerous conditions in Libya and states that “given the political instability in Libya and the transitory nature of the government, ALPA is concerned that information relevant to a background check on Libyan nationals would be unreliable if not entirely unavailable.” Chairman Goodlatte, Subcommittee Chairman Gowdy, and Congressman Chaffetz released the statements below praising today’s approval of this legislation by the House Judiciary Committee.  Chairman Goodlatte: “Given the ongoing terrorist activity in Libya, it is unconscionable that the Obama Administration is carelessly forging ahead with its plan to allow Libyans to attend flight school or study nuclear science in the United States. The Obama Administration justifies its plan by claiming that the United States’ relationship with Libya has ‘normalized,’ but it is anything but normal. This summer, Americans working at the U.S. embassy in Tripoli were evacuated due to rival rebel groups battling each other for control of the area. And less than two years ago, the U.S. consulate in Benghazi was attacked by terrorists, leaving four Americans dead.  “Lifting this longstanding ban is not in the best interest of the American people and needlessly places our country at risk. I am pleased that the House Judiciary Committee today approved the Protecting the Homeland Act to stop President Obama from implementing this foolish and dangerous plan so that we protect Americans and our national security from threats in Libya.” Subcommittee Chairman Gowdy: “The chief responsibility of government is the security of its people, and as those entrusted to govern, we must be vigilant in fulfilling this duty. Yet, the Administration has not been clear as to why repealing this longstanding rule now, while the situation in Libya is more uncertain and dangerous, will benefit our national security. I am pleased the committee passed our bill, the Protecting the Homeland Act, to stop this policy reversal.” Congressman Chaffetz: “The Obama Administration continues to turn a blind eye to the current situation in Libya. The country is far from normal and remains vulnerable to unchecked terrorist activity. Lifting a decades-old security ban on a country challenged by instability threatens the safety of both countries. The Protecting the Homeland Act will stop the Administration from carelessly lifting this ban. I encourage my colleagues in the House and Senate to swiftly pass this legislation.” Background: The prohibition on Libyans from studying nuclear science or training as pilots in the United States was originally put in place in the 1980s after the wave of terrorist incidents involving Libyans. Not even two years after the U.S. consulate in Benghazi was attacked, which resulted in the deaths of four Americans, the Obama Administration justifies lifting this ban by claiming the United States’ relationship with Libya has “normalized.” However, the terror threat continues and numerous news reports document recent terror-related activities coming from Libya. Recently, the employees at the U.S. embassy in Tripoli were evacuated due to violence between rival militias near the facility. Since then, many foreign governments have closed their embassies in Libya and evacuated staff as the violence has spread throughout the country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140912025230/http://wolf.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wolf-again-calls-on-house-to-pass-syria-travel-ban-bill,Wolf Again Calls On House To Pass Syria Travel Ban Bill,2014-09-09,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Frank Wolf,W000672,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA) today in a speech on the House floor again urged his colleagues to pass legislation supported by the FBI to limit travel to Syria by American citizens to prevent those who have trained and fought with terrorist groups from freely returning to the U.S. and committing an attack.  Citing reports of more than 140 Americans fighting alongside terrorists in Syria, Wolf said his bill, the International Conflicts of Concern Act, H.R. 4223, is “a commonsense solution to an increasingly urgent threat.” Wolf also reminded his colleagues that three Americans died fighting with terrorists this summer, including a suicide bomber who travelled from Syria to Florida and back again in the months before his deadly act.  “We must take proactive steps to discourage Americans from travelling to Syria to link up with these groups,” Wolf said.  “Current law does not prevent Americans from travelling freely to Syria and back, which creates a loophole that would-be jihadists can exploit.  Unless the U.S. has solid evidence that they have joined one of these terrorist groups, the FBI can’t arrest suspects upon their return.  Unfortunately, it can be very hard to prove that suspects fought with a terrorist group in Syria, due to limited U.S. intelligence about their activities in the region.” Wolf also said he was concerned that the absence of laws preventing unrestricted travel to Syria means the U.S. is not taking any substantial steps to discourage Americans from going over to fight. “This is an untenable situation that puts our country at greater risk of attack from a radicalized American who trains and fights with these groups and later returns home,” Wolf said.  Below is the complete text of Wolf’s speech: “Mr. Speaker, according to a new poll released by CNN last evening, ‘Americans are increasingly concerned that ISIS represents a direct terror threat’ and they are ‘fearful that ISIS agents are living in the United States.’  A Washington Post-ABC News poll released this morning shows that 90 percent of the American people believe ISIS poses a ‘serious’ threat to the U.S.  “This threat is growing, largely due to the fact that increasing numbers of radicalized westerners – including more than 140 Americans – are freely travelling to Syria to link up with ISIS and al Qaeda-affiliated groups.  Consider that over the last month, while this Congress was out on recess, the number of Americans killed fighting with terrorist organizations in Syria quickly grew, signaling a trend that should be troubling to all Americans.  “Earlier this summer, Moner Mohammed Abu-Salha, a 22-year-old from Florida, became the first American suicide bomber fighting in Syria for the al Qaeda-affiliate al Nusra Front.  Equally concerning as his deadly act was the fact that he travelled from Syria to Florida and back again in the months before his deadly terrorist act.  “In August, two more Americans were reportedly killed fight with ISIS: Douglas McAurthur McCain; and Abdirahmaan Muhumed, both originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota. In light of these developments, there is no question that we need to do more to prevent these radicalized Americans from returning freely to the U.S. “We must take proactive steps to discourage Americans from travelling to Syria to link up with these groups.  Current law does not prevent Americans from travelling freely to Syria and back, which creates a loophole that would-be jihadists can exploit.  Unless the U.S. has solid evidence that they have joined one of these terrorist groups, the FBI can’t arrest suspects upon their return.  Unfortunately, it can be very hard to prove that suspects fought with a terrorist group in Syria, due to limited U.S. intelligence about their activities in the region. “I am also concerned that the absence of laws preventing unrestricted travel to Syria means the U.S. is not taking any substantial steps to discourage Americans from going over to fight.  This is an untenable situation that puts our country at greater risk of attack from a radicalized American who trains and fights with these groups and later returns home.  “That is why I introduced legislation in March aimed at curbing this threat. Since its introduction six months ago, the dramatic gains made by ISIS and the growing number of foreign fighters have only reaffirmed the need for legislation to address this issue. “My bill, H.R. 4223 –  the International Conflicts of Concern Act – would give the president authority to temporarily restrict travel and material support to countries like Syria, and the president could add additional countries of concern when conflicts spill over into other countries, like we have seen in Iraq.  “The bill would also contain important protections allowing legitimate travel by licensed humanitarian aid workers, journalists and other groups cleared by the U.S. government. “I also want to add that this bill was developed with input from FBI agents and has been supported by Director Comey.  “I believe it is a commonsense solution to an increasingly urgent threat – and the House should bring up this bill and pass it before we leave next week.  Should we fail to do so, I believe we will one day regret not doing all we could to protect our homeland from those Amricans radicalized fighting with ISIS in Syria.  “Mr. Speaker, I want to close by also encouraging the president to call on the expertise of two men who know more about fighting terrorists and insurgent threats in Iraq than anyone:  Gen. David Petraeus and Gen. Stanley McChrystal.  “Although both have retired and neither work for this administration anymore, our country would benefit greatly from their expertise as the military and intelligence community address the growing threat in Iraq.  I hope the president and his team will ask for their assistance.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140912025843/http://wolf.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lyme-bill-clears-house-now-headed-for-senate,"Lyme Bill Clears House, Now Headed For Senate",2014-09-09,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Frank Wolf,W000672,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Legislation aimed at streamlining federal research on Lyme and other tick-borne diseases is now on its way to the Senate, according to Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA), who has worked to raise awareness of Lyme across the 10th District over the past several years.   Wolf said the full House today approved the Vector-Borne Disease Research Accountability and Transparency Act of 2014, H.R.4701, which would create an interagency working group made up of relevant federal agencies and non-federal partners, including physicians and patient advocates, to address this growing health crisis.  “This is a very positive development in dealing with this disease,” said Wolf, who was a cosponsor of the legislation.  “By streamlining research and making sure patients and their doctors have a seat at the table, I am hopeful we can find better treatment options for this devastating disease.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=543,Wittman: Americans Deserve Better,2014-09-09,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) spoke during floor consideration of H. Res. 644, a resolution condemning the Administration's failure to notify Congress before releasing 5 detainees from United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, as part of a prisoner exchange. H. Res. 644 passed the House of Representatives with Wittman's support by a bipartisan vote of 249-163. Full Remarks (video available here): Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, and as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Readiness, to voice my support for House Resolution 644. I'd like to thank the Chairman for his leadership in bringing this to the floor, and I respect deeply the Ranking Member but adamantly disagree with him on the points that he makes about this piece of legislation. Very simply stated, the prisoner swap authorized by the President to exchange five Taliban captives for Sergeant Bergdahl was illegal. That part of the law was not followed pretty plain and simple. By failing to notify Congress in accordance with the 30-day reporting requirement, our President acted outside of the law. Clearly, it wasn't authorized, and the law was ignored. Now, you can make arguments about what other prerogatives he had, but you can't say, Well, Article 2 we'll put in place,' and that trumps other areas of the law. I think you have to say that this law was disregarded. Our Constitution clearly outlines those separations of powers. This principle is a cornerstone of our great democracy. Our framers carefully incorporated the division of government and the responsibilities there in order to protect citizens by preventing any one branch of government from overreach and abuse of power. That's why we're here, is to have these types of debates and say the President clearly acted outside the law. I will make this even clearer Congress makes the laws. The President, on the other hand, has the constitutional charge of ensuring the laws are faithfully executed. Not just part of them, but all of them. In this case, the President knowingly and willfully disregarded his constitutional duties. Americans deserve better. Americans expect that their President will uphold his end of the bargain. Americans expect that the laws of the land apply to everyone, and that they are applied properly in accordance with the direction from Congress. Americans also expect that their congressional leaders are not simply going to shrug their shoulders and look the other way. Congress has an obligation to the people to ensure that its laws are enforced. That's why we are elected. Our nation remains today at a tipping point in this world's history in a war against terrorism. The unlawful release of five Taliban leaders, some of whom will certainly return to the battlefield, deeply concerns me. An investigation I led in 2012 indicated at the time that 27% return to the battlefield. That's why I remain skeptical of the Administration's assessment that the released prisoners will not pose a threat to our national security. We have no idea how much more terror will these men now might unleash and what impacts they will have on the lives of others. By ignoring the law, the president has decided that he's going to shoulder this responsibility. I argue he had an obligation under the law to consult Congress in doing this. That's why it was put into the National Defense Authorization Act. We live in a nation where the people expect their elected leaders to carry out their duties as the Constitution directs them. And every day, each of us entrusted by the public to uphold the Constitution must live up to that obligation. Mr. Speaker, I fully support House Resolution 644, and urge my colleagues to support this institution and our Constitution. Congressman Wittman also questioned Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel about the prisoner exchange during a House Armed Services Committee hearing in June. You can view the video here. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=392749,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 9.8.14,2014-09-08,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Immigration Reform Update Since taking office, President Obama has promised to take action on immigration reform.  He guaranteed he would do so in his first year in office.  When the Democrats controlled the House and the Senate, he focused instead on other issues, including Obamacare. More recently, in late June, the President said he planned to use his executive authority by the end of summer to change our immigration system without Congress. However, on Saturday, September 6, it was announced that President Obama, bowing to pressure from some in his party including Senators in contested races this year, will be delaying his unilateral “amnesty by executive action” until after the November election.  White House officials are quoted in the press as saying he “will take action on immigration before the end of the year.” His plans are highly controversial, lack Congressional support, and, if rumors about the plans are true, the plans may be unconstitutional.  Delaying them until after the elections is shamelessly political.  If President Obama wants to see changes to our immigration system, he should work with Congress and demonstrate he can be trusted to enforce our nation’s laws as written.   Constitutionally, he cannot rewrite laws on his own.   Politically, his ideas must not be popular or he wouldn’t fear the November elections. Obamacare Website Hacked in July Late last week, the Wall Street Journal first reported that a hacker had breached the Obamacare website in July, uploading malicious software to the site.  Though the site stores personal information including Social Security numbers, financial data, and more, the report notes that the investigators who had discovered the July hack in late August “…found no evidence that consumers’ personal data were taken or viewed during the breach….” This is very troubling, though unfortunately it is not very surprising.  I and others have been very concerned about the security of the Obamacare website, especially given the many technical difficulties revealed during its launch in October of last year. In fact, a little more than a month after its botched launch, the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a November 19, 2013 hearing on the security of the Obamacare website.  Testifying at this hearing was Mr. Henry Chao, Deputy Chief Information Officer and Deputy Director of the Office of Information Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the project manager of the Obamacare website. Among the issues I asked Mr. Chao about was a memorandum signed by Marilyn Tavenner, Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, that states, “Due to system readiness issues, the [Security Control Assessment] SCA was only partly completed.  This constitutes a risk that must be accepted and mitigated to support the Marketplace Day 1 operations.” The Obamacare website holds information about millions of Americans that certain criminals would surely love to get their hands on.  That the American people are required to provide data to the government is problematic.  But in return, once the data is given to the government, the government ought to protect it. As you may recall, on January 10 of this year, the House of Representatives passed the Health Exchange Security and Transparency Act (H.R. 3811).  This bill would require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to promptly notify people if their personal data provided to the Obamacare website is breached.  Despite objections from the Administration, 67 Democrats joined Republicans in voting for it.   Among them was Representative Steve Israel (D-NY), a member of the House Democrat leadership team.  Rep. Israel is reported as having said in a statement, “I voted for this bill because I want to make sure confidential information is protected.  That’s just common sense.” I agree - common sense it is.  Unfortunately this bill, like 345 others, has yet to be acted on by the Senate.  Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and those Senators who support him and his style of politics need to let this bill and other good, common-sense ideas from the House be voted on.  Especially given the recent hack of Obamacare’s website, I vehemently urge them to take action on this bill.  It is past time that the American people are given peace of mind that their personal information provided to the Obamacare website is secure and protected. As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140911014427/http://wolf.house.gov:80/media-center/press-releases/wolf-introduces-measure-authorizing-military-force-against-terrorist,Wolf Introduces Sweeping AUMF Bill Against Terrorist Groups,2014-09-08,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Frank Wolf,W000672,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA) today introduced legislation authorizing the use of military force against international terrorist groups, including the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and al Qaeda and its affiliates, like al Nusra, Ansar al Sharia, al Shabaab and Boko Haram, while encouraging close coordination with NATO and regional allies on any action.  Wolf said he was compelled to introduce the measure because of the rapid advances made by ISIS in Iraq and Syria, as well as territorial gains made by al Qaeda-affiliated groups in Libya, Nigeria and Somalia.  Long recognized as one of Congress’ leading defenders of human rights around the globe, Wolf has been speaking out for months about the threat from ISIS to religious minorities as well as the potential threat to the U.S. homeland.  He was among the first to call what was happening to the Christian and Yazidi population in Iraq “genocide” and took to the House floor for seven straight legislative days leading up to the August recess to urge the president to take action.  Wolf said the motive behind the bill is to end any ambiguity about the president’s authority – or the Congress’ support – for a U.S.-led international coalition to disrupt and eliminate ISIS and al Qaeda-affiliated terrorist groups from committing genocide.  His Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) would be the first approved by the Congress since the 2001 and 2002 resolutions authorizing military force against al Qaeda and the Taliban and against Saddam Hussein’s regime, and would fill in the gaps from past authorizations to deal with the current terrorist threat, including regional al Qaeda-affiliates who at times try to obfuscate the extent of their relationship with al Qaeda leadership. Wolf said passage of his bill would send a clear message to the international community that the United States intends to work with allies to confront and defeat this increasingly dangerous challenge.   Wolf said he agrees with those who have described the current fight as a clash within the Muslim world between the forces of moderation and extremists and Sunnis and Shia factions, making it incumbent on Muslim states to forcefully confront ISIS and al Qaeda-affiliates.  This violence threatens Americans and others in the international community as well as regional governments, requiring a broad coalition response.  However, Wolf also cautioned that an effective response is unlikely absent strong U.S. leadership.  “For far too long the Obama Administration and the Congress have been debating whether or not authority exists for action to address this threat,” Wolf said.  “This resolution would provide clear authority for the president and our military, working with coalition partners, to go after these terrorists, whether in Syria, Iraq or elsewhere.  We cannot continue operating on outdated authorities passed 13 years ago; it is time for this Congress to vote.” Wolf also  introduced companion legislation to the War Powers Consultation Act, a Senate bill introduced in January to update the War Powers Resolution with a new consultation structure between the executive and legislative branches.  Sponsored by Senators Kaine (D-VA), McCain (R-AZ) and King (I-ME), the bill is drawn from the 2007 recommendations of a bipartisan panel chaired by former Secretaries of State James Baker and Warren Christopher seeking to improve the process under which the president consults with Congress on military action abroad. “This long-overdue reform of the War Powers Resolution would address structural issues that prevent more dialogue and consultation on military actions,” Wolf said.  “It codifies the consultation process between the branches and would require the Congress to take an up-or-down vote on any military action taken by the president.”  Earlier this year, Wolf introduced legislation aimed at preventing terrorist groups in Syria from helping to radicalize Americans by restricting unsanctioned travel to Syria by U.S. citizens and prohibiting material support to groups in the war-torn country.  H.R. 4223 would give the president authority to restrict travel and material support to countries like Syria, where foreign terrorist organizations are active in fighting and may be working with government or anti-government forces.  The measure is pending consideration before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “FBI Director Comey supports this bill,” Wolf said, pointing out there are more than a hundred Americans fighting with terrorist groups in Syria and Iraq.  “Congress needs to act on this before recessing at the end of September.”  Wolf has a long history of leadership on counterterrorism issues.  He was the author of the legislation creating the National Terrorism Commission, also known as the Bremer Commission, which produced a report in 2000 warning of the threat from al Qaeda.  As chairman of the Commerce-Justice-Science Appropriations subcommittee, which funds the FBI, he oversaw the bureau’s post-9/11 transformation into a counterterrorism agency and included funding in a 2013 appropriations bill creating a commission to review the FBI’s progress in addressing the evolving terrorist threat, including domestic radicalization.  Former Attorney General Ed Meese, former Ambassador and Congressman Tim Roemer and respected Georgetown University terrorist expert Bruce Hoffman have been leading this review, which is expected to be released before the end of the year.  In addition, Wolf was the author of the legislation creating the Iraq Study Group in 2006, also known as the Baker-Hamilton Commission.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918195253/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/582,"GOODLATTE, GOWDY, AND CHAFFETZ INTRODUCE BILL TO STOP ADMINISTRATION'S PLAN ALLOWING LIBYAN PILOTS AND NUCLEAR SCIENTISTS TO TRAIN IN U.S.",2014-09-08,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE, GOWDY, AND CHAFFETZ INTRODUCE BILL TO STOP ADMINISTRATION'S PLAN ALLOWING LIBYAN PILOTS AND NUCLEAR SCIENTISTS TO TRAIN IN U.S. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.), House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte, and Oversight and Government Reform National Security Subcommittee Chairman Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah) today introduced the Protecting the Homeland Act (H.R. 5401) to stop the Obama Administration from lifting a longstanding prohibition on Libyans coming to the U.S. to attend flight school, to work in aviation maintenance or flight operations, or to study or seek training in nuclear science. In July, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved a final regulation to lift this decades-old policy. Once Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Jeh Johnson signs this regulation, it will become effective unless further action is taken. The prohibition was originally put in place in the 1980s after the wave of terrorist incidents involving Libyans.  Not even two years after the U.S. consulate in Benghazi was attacked, which resulted in the deaths of four Americans, the Obama Administration justifies lifting this ban by claiming the United States’ relationship with Libya has “normalized.” However, the terror threat continues and numerous news reports document recent terror-related activities coming from Libya. Recently, the employees at the U.S. embassy in Tripoli were evacuated due to violence between rival militias near the facility. Since then, many foreign governments have closed their embassies in Libya and evacuated staff as the violence has spread throughout the country. Additionally, it has been reported that Islamist militias stole 11 commercial jetliners last month at the airport in Tripoli, and intelligence agencies have warned that they could be used in terrorist attacks.  Chairman Goodlatte, Subcommittee Chairman Gowdy, and Congressman Chaffetz released the statements below following the introduction of their bill to stop the Obama Administration’s policy reversal from taking effect.  Chairman Goodlatte: “Given the ongoing terrorist activity in Libya, it is unconscionable that the Obama Administration is carelessly forging ahead with its plan to allow Libyan pilots and nuclear scientists to train in the United States. The Obama Administration justifies its plan by claiming that the United States’ relationship with Libya has ‘normalized,’ but it is anything but normal. This summer, Americans working at the U.S. embassy in Tripoli were evacuated due to rival rebel groups battling each other for control of the area. And less than two years ago, the U.S. consulate in Benghazi was attacked by terrorists, leaving four Americans dead.  “Lifting this longstanding ban is not in the best interest of the American people and needlessly places our country at risk. The Protecting the Homeland Act will stop President Obama from implementing this foolish and dangerous plan so that we protect Americans and our national security from threats in Libya.” Subcommittee Chairman Gowdy: “Considering the deteriorating situation in Libya, it is hard to understand why DHS is moving ahead with repealing this 30-year old rule. We still have not heard from the Administration why this policy is going to improve national security. Is post-revolutionary Libya secure enough to change the rules? Why now? This is a risk to our national security and compels us to act. Our legislation would codify the current regulation and prevent the Administration from unilaterally carrying out this change.” Congressman Chaffetz: “Libya is in chaos. Violent threats in the region continue to grow. Even our embassy in Tripoli was evacuated due to militia violence close to the compound. Lifting the ban to allow Libyans to come to the U.S. to train in aviation and nuclear sciences is not only bad policy, but it threatens the safety of this country. I appreciate Chairmen Goodlatte and Gowdy for their leadership on this important issue.” Text of the Protecting the Homeland Act can be found here. The House Judiciary Committee will markup this legislation on Wednesday.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140905022447/http://wolf.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wolf-to-introduce-measure-authorizing-military-force-against-terrorist,Wolf To Introduce Measure Authorizing Military Force Against Terrorist Groups,2014-09-03,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Frank Wolf,W000672,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA) today announced he will introduce legislation next week authorizing the use of military force against international terrorist groups, including the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and al Qaeda and its affiliates, like al Nusra, Ansar al Sharia, al Shabaab and Boko Haram, while encouraging close coordination with NATO and regional allies on any action.  Wolf said he was compelled to introduce the measure because of the rapid advances made by ISIS in Iraq and Syria, as well as territorial gains made by al Qaeda-affiliated groups in Libya, Nigeria and Somalia.  Wolf, long recognized as one of Congress’ leading defenders of human rights around the globe, has been speaking out for months about the threat from ISIS to religious minorities as well as the potential threat to the U.S. homeland.  He was among the first to call what was happening to the Christian and Yazidi population in Iraq “genocide” and took to the House floor for seven straight legislative days leading up to the August recess to urge the president to take action.  Wolf said the motive behind the bill is to end any ambiguity about the president’s authority – or the Congress’ support – for a U.S.-led international coalition to disrupt and eliminate ISIS and al Qaeda-affiliated terrorist groups from committing genocide.  His Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) would be the first approved by the Congress since the 2001 and 2002 resolutions authorizing military force against al Qaeda and the Taliban and against Saddam Hussein’s regime, and would fill in the gaps from past authorizations to deal with the current terrorist threat, including regional al Qaeda-affiliates who at times try to obfuscate the extent of their relationship with al Qaeda leadership. Wolf believes passage of his bill also would send a clear message to the international community that the United States intends to work with allies to confront and defeat this increasingly dangerous challenge.   Wolf said he agrees with those who have described the current fight as a clash within the Muslim world between the forces of moderation and extremists and Sunnis and Shia factions, making it incumbent on Muslim states to forcefully confront ISIS and al Qaeda-affiliates.  This violence threatens Americans and others in the international community as well as regional governments, requiring a broad coalition response.  However, Wolf also cautioned that an effective response is unlikely absent strong U.S. leadership.  “For far too long the Obama Administration and the Congress have been debating whether or not authority exists for action to address this threat,” Wolf said.  “This resolution would provide clear authority for the president and our military, working with coalition partners, to go after these terrorists, whether in Syria, Iraq or elsewhere.  We cannot continue operating on outdated authorities passed 13 years ago; it is time for this Congress to vote.” Wolf also plans to introduce companion legislation to the War Powers Consultation Act, a Senate bill introduced in January to update the War Powers Resolution with a new consultation structure between the executive and legislative branches.  Sponsored by Senators Kaine (D-VA), McCain (R-AZ) and King (I-ME), the bill is drawn from the 2007 recommendations of a bipartisan panel chaired by former Secretaries of State James Baker and Warren Christopher seeking to improve the process under which the president consults with Congress on military action abroad. “This long-overdue reform of the War Powers Resolution would address structural issues that prevent more dialogue and consultation on military actions,” Wolf said.  “It codifies the consultation process between the branches and would require the Congress to take an up-or-down vote on any military action taken by the president.”  Earlier this year, Wolf introduced legislation aimed at preventing terrorist groups in Syria from helping to radicalize Americans by restricting unsanctioned travel to Syria by U.S. citizens and prohibiting material support to groups in the war-torn country.  H.R. 4223 would give the president authority to restrict travel and material support to countries like Syria, where foreign terrorist organizations are active in fighting and may be working with government or anti-government forces.  The measure is pending consideration before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “FBI Director Comey supports this bill,” Wolf said, pointing out there are more than a hundred Americans fighting with terrorist groups in Syria and Iraq.  “Congress needs to act on this before recessing at the end of September.”  Wolf has a long history of leadership on counterterrorism issues.  He was the author of the legislation creating the National Terrorism Commission, also known as the Bremer Commission, which produced a report in 2000 warning of the threat from al Qaeda.  As chairman of the Commerce-Justice-Science Appropriations subcommittee, which funds the FBI, he oversaw the bureau’s post-9/11 transformation into a counterterrorism agency and included funding in a 2013 appropriations bill creating a commission to review the FBI’s progress in addressing the evolving terrorist threat, including domestic radicalization.  Former Attorney General Ed Meese, former Ambassador and Congressman Tim Roemer and respected Georgetown University terrorist expert Bruce Hoffman have been leading this review, which is expected to be released before the end of the year.  In addition, Wolf was the author of the legislation creating the Iraq Study Group in 2006, also known as the Baker-Hamilton Commission.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=392239,Griffith Labor Day Statement,2014-09-01,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement honoring American workers: “On Labor Day, we take time to honor America’s working men and women and the extraordinary work ethic that the people of our nation are well-known for possessing.  From educators to coal miners, farmers to medical professionals, bankers to welders, and more, American workers are the best in the world.  Our people take pride in their work, produce high-quality goods and top-rate services, and work diligently to provide for their families and those in their communities.  My gratitude to all who have worked so hard to see that America is resilient and strong.  I wish you a safe and happy Labor Day with family, friends, and community.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=392241,Congressman Griffith's Weekly E-Newsletter 9.1.14,2014-09-01,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Leading from BehindCivilized people are appalled by the barbaric murder of American journalist Jim Foley by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).  A week after ISIS distributed video of Foley’s tragic murder, President Obama in a press conference responded to questions about potential plans for action in Syria by saying, “We don’t have a strategy yet.” Hmmmm.  Is this the poker face of a man with a plan, or is it a gaffe?  I fear it is the latter. According to the Washington Post, “Polls have increasingly shown that Americans view Obama as a weak commander in chief without much direction or heft to his foreign policy.”  Reviewing the situation with Russia and Ukraine, Iran, the Boko Haram in Nigeria, North Korea, the Chinese claiming two international shipping channels in the South China Sea, etc., I agree with those people who regrettably believe the President has a weak foreign policy. The threat posed by ISIS is real and continues to increase.  The Russian threat to Ukraine and the chaos generally in the Middle East are real threats to American interests. President Obama cannot continue leading from behind.  He and his Administration must have a firm grasp – a solid strategy – for exercising leadership and working with our nation’s allies.  The President must have a steady hand in managing world affairs.   This sometimes means even working with some leaders who may not be our best friends.  After all, as the old saying goes, the enemy of my enemy is my friend.  Russia must be checked, and ISIS must be defeated.  The President is the Commander in Chief, and needs a policy of strength and resolve. If the President needs to take significant military action, Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) is right.  He must ask Congress for authority. Government Control of Water I often speak and write of overreaching Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.  In what appears to be another power grab, the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have proposed what is commonly known as the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, which could expand EPA’s jurisdiction. American Farm Bureau Federation President Bob Stallman testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee that the WOTUS rule “…would categorically regulate as ‘navigable waters’ countless ephemeral drains, ditches and other features across the countryside that are wet only when it rains and may be miles from the nearest truly ‘navigable’ water.  It would also regulate small, remote ‘wetlands’ – which may be nothing more than low spots on a farm field – just because those areas happen to be adjacent to a ditch or located in a floodplain.” What might the WOTUS rule do if it were officially promulgated?  It might enable the EPA to dictate to farmers, land owners, economic developers, local governments, and others where they may or may not build fences, where they may or may not dig ditches, and more.  When there are heavy rains in the mountains, there are many small streams which may only have water three or four times a year.  Under these new regulations, land owners may be forced to chop up pastureland and fence these “dry branches” off, making it difficult to farm. Many coal mines are being shuttered.  Now the EPA wants to control use of our land.  If we can’t use coal and if we can’t build or dig in the mountains, what are we supposed to do?  How are we supposed to transition our economy as envisioned by the progressives? “Under this plan, there’d be no body of water in America including mud puddles and canals that wouldn’t be at risk from job-destroying federal regulation,” House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Doc Hastings (WA-04) said.  “This dramatic expansion of federal government control will directly impact the livelihoods and viability of farmers and small businesses in rural America.” EPA maps of the country’s waters and wetlands appear to show the EPA’s plans to control significant amounts of property across the 50 States.  These concerning maps, recently released by the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, can be found at http://science.house.gov/epa-maps-state-2013. In May, I joined 230 Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle in urging the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers to withdraw their overreaching WOTUS rule.  I believe that state and local governments ought to remain in control of decisions of this nature.  I remain opposed to the WOTUS rule, and will continue working to fight it and other overreaching EPA actions. As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918195256/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/580,GOODLATTE & GRASSLEY DEMAND ANSWERS ABOUT FRAUD & ABUSE IN DACA PROGRAM,2014-08-29,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE & GRASSLEY DEMAND ANSWERS ABOUT FRAUD & ABUSE IN DACA PROGRAM WASHINGTON, D.C. — House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte and Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Jeh Johnson demanding answers about changes made to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that encourage fraud and abuse, and information about the scope of the program. Earlier this summer, Obama Administration officials quietly made several changes to DACA, including weakening the educational requirements and stating that for any documentary evidence provided by an applicant to meet DACA requirements, officials “may verify information,” as opposed to actually verifying the veracity of the documents.   Since USCIS is not regularly verifying the validity of the documentary evidence provided to it, Chairman Goodlatte and Senator Grassley write that “applicants will undoubtedly take advantage of this fraud loophole.” They further state that “the American people deserve to understand why their own government would be encouraging fraud and potentially even helping some who want to do us harm game the system in order to do so.”  In the letter, Chairman Goodlatte and Senator Grassley ask 25 detailed questions about the DACA program, including the number of applications that have been approved, rejected, and denied as well as information about what immigration benefits DACA applicants have received. Of particular importance is obtaining information on the individuals who received DACA but later had the benefit terminated. Additionally, Chairman Goodlatte and Senator Grassley ask if gang members have benefited from DACA and if taxpayer dollars are being used to cover the cost of the program. To read the letter, click here. Changes to the DACA program can be found on USCIS’ website in the FAQ section.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918195259/http://goodlatte.house.gov/press_releases/581,GOODLATTE ANNOUNCES COMCAST WILL CARRY WHSV IN PAGE COUNTY,2014-08-29,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,VA,Robert Goodlatte,G000289,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"GOODLATTE ANNOUNCES COMCAST WILL CARRY WHSV IN PAGE COUNTY WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bob Goodlatte released a statement today announcing an agreement that will bring WHSV back to Comcast customers in Page County. Last month, Congressman Goodlatte announced a similar agreement that will allow DirectTV customers in Page County to receive WHSV content.  “This week I learned that Comcast will once again carry the signal of WHSV in Page County. Starting on October 29, customers should be able to view local content from the Harrisonburg station. This is a positive development for Page County customers. I have heard from many constituents regarding this issue, and I am pleased that this agreement has moved forward. I thank both companies for their willingness to resolve this issue. I hope to continue working with other carriers to ensure that local television content is available for viewers in the Sixth District.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140829030510/http://wolf.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wolf-goes-public-with-request-to-involve-bush-library-in-resolving,Wolf Goes Public With Request To Involve Bush Library In Resolving Crisis In South Sudan,2014-08-26,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,VA,Frank Wolf,W000672,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Following news reports of the potential for a humanitarian catastrophe in South Sudan, Rep. Frank Wolf (R-10th), long recognized in Congress as one of the strongest advocates for South Sudan, today released a letter he sent earlier this month to former President George W. Bush asking the Bush Institute to help resolve the crisis.  Wolf, who first reached out to the Bush Library last year, said he has been hesitant to publicly involve the former president but felt the article in yesterday’s Washington Post, reporting that 50,000 children could die of malnourishment by the end of the year, forced his hand. “I know President Bush has tried to keep a low profile, but South Sudan is unique,” Wolf said.  “He helped give birth to the nation and is probably the only person who can get the two sides to come together. “I didn’t want to make the letter public, but I felt I had to,” Wolf continued.  “I just couldn’t be silent anymore.  Unless something dramatic happens, thousands are going to die.  I urge the Obama Administration to enlist the help of President Bush.  There is no downside.” Below is the text of Wolf’s letter, which was dated August 8, 2014:     President George Bush George W. Bush Presidential Center P.O. Box 600610 Dallas TX 75360 Dear President Bush: On the July 9, South Sudan celebrated its third birthday.  Instead of fireworks, the day was marked with gunfire, the threat of famine and widespread disease.  The people of South Sudan are no better off than they were three years ago, and with the warring leaders showing no sign of letting up, the situation worsens each day. During your administration, Senator John Danforth, the Sudan Special Envoy, had a clear charge and platform to pursue lasting peace.  After negotiating for two-and-a-half years, the Comprehensive Peace Agreement was secured, ending a decade's worth of conflict between the North and South. We had hoped that, with their new-found freedom and the fresh memories of hardship and bloodshed, a new democratic nation marked by rule of law and lasting peace would emerge.  Sadly, that has not been the case. Last year I was in contact with your team from the George W. Bush Institute to engage with the factions in South Sudan and to work with them on reunification.  Since that time, the situation on the ground has grown more dire.  UNICEF and the World Food Program have said that 3.9 million people in South Sudan face ""dangerous levels of food insecurity.""  With political unrest and the lack of individuals to cultivate the land and manage herds, South Sudan is destined to be hardest hit with the current cyclical drought period with no surplus food stored.  UNICEF estimates 50,000 could die from malnutrition and a million children will require treatment for malnutrition. I write to you today, to once again ask if you and the Bush Institute would engage before all hope for a reconciled South Sudan is lost.  You and your staff have the background and relationship with all the important players and stakeholders in the South Sudan regime.  South Sudan is on the brink of joining the likes of Somalia and Zimbabwe as failed states.  Without your intervention, the independent, democratic, three-year-old South Sudan may be nothing more than an asterisk in the history books. It is clear that there is a lot to be done to make this country live up to their potential.  The George W. Bush Institute is in a unique position to not only restore peace in the country, but more importantly, the institute's assistance in providing experts to help the country reestablish their agriculture and ranching to allow them to feed their people.  Lastly, the institute can be instrumental in helping the South Sudanese get a system in place to manage the revenues from their oil, gas, and other natural resources that will allow them to grow and sustain their economy.  Strengthening all of these parts will allow South Sudan to live up to the potential you and the entire world saw when their independence was negotiated.     I hope that you will consider this request.  Your standing up for those in South Sudan who have no voice would be like Esther in the Bible whose faith helped save her people. Best wishes. Sincerely, Frank R. Wolf Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=391433,Ninth District Traveling Staff Office Hours for September,2014-08-25,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Griffith’s Ninth District STAFF will be available at the following locations during the month of September: September 3, 2014 Smyth County:     10:00 am – 12:00 pm Town Council Chambers 138 West Main Street Marion, VA Covington:     10:00 am – 12:00 pm Covington City Hall City Hall Conference Room 333 W. Locust Street Covington, VA Craig County:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Craig County Administration Building 108 Court Street New Castle, VA Bristol:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bristol VA Public Library Upstairs Conference Room 701 Goode Street Bristol, VA September 5, 2014 Martinsville:   11:00 am – 1:00 pm NCI Room 106 – Classroom Building 30 Franklin Street Martinsville, VA  Lee County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Lee County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room – Suite U101 33640 Main Street Jonesville, VA Norton:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Norton City Council Chambers 618 Virginia Avenue NW Norton, VA September 9, 2014 Giles County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Pearisburg Town Hall 112 Tazewell Street Pearisburg, VA Salem:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Salem Library 28 East Main Street Salem, VA September 10, 2014 Radford:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Radford Public Library Meeting Room 30 West Main Street Radford, VA Pulaski County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Pulaski County Library Meeting Room 60 3rd Street NW Pulaski, VA September 11, 2014 Grayson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Grayson County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room – Suite 206 129 Davis Street Independence, VA  Russell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Southwest Virginia Technology Development Center 141 Highland Drive Lebanon, VA Tazewell County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bluefield Town Hall – Council Chambers 112 Huffard Drive Bluefield, VA Galax:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Galax Municipal Building Conference Room 111 E. Main Street Galax, VA September 16, 2014  Tazewell County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm American Legion Building 226 Central Avenue Tazewell, VA Buchanan County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Grundy Town Hall 1185 Plaza Drive Grundy, VA September 17, 2014 Henry County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bassett Historical Society        3964 Fairystone Parkway Bassett, VA Bland County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Bland County Courthouse Admin. Office Room 200 612 Main Street Bland, VA Wythe County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Wythe County Sheriff’s Office Conference Room 245 South 4th Street Wytheville, VA Patrick County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Patrick County Administration Building Conference Room 106 Rucker Street Stuart, VA September 18, 2014 Scott County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Community Services Building Community Room 190 Beech Street Gate City, VA Wise County:     2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Big Stone Gap Federal Courthouse 3rd Floor Room 303 332 Wood Avenue E Big Stone Gap, VA September 19, 2014 Carroll County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Carroll County Administration Building Board of Supervisors Room 605 – 1 Pine Street Hillsville, VA Floyd County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Floyd County Library 321 W. Main Street Floyd, VA September 23, 2014 Pulaski County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Dublin Town Hall Route 100, 1 mile North of I-81 Dublin, VA September 26, 2014 Alleghany County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Clifton Forge Library Conference Room 535 Church Street Clifton Forge, VA Dickenson County:   10:00 am – 12:00 pm Dickenson Center for Education & Research 818 Happy Valley Drive Clintwood, VA Roanoke County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Roanoke Library Hollins Branch 6624 Peters Creek Road Roanoke, VA Wise County:   2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Big Stone Gap Federal Courthouse 3rd Floor Room 303 322 Wood Avenue E Big Stone Gap, VA ** Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z