url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1087,Rep. Cline Announces U.S. Service Academy Nominations for the Class of 2026,2021-12-22,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) announced the names of the students within the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia whom he has nominated to join the Class of 2026 at one of four U.S. Service Academies.

Applicants to the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy require a nomination from a Member of Congress or another nominating authority. Nominees are listed below alphabetically.

""One of the most important responsibilities I have as the Representative for Virginia's Sixth District is the nomination of high school seniors and others to one of four United States Service Academies,"" Cline said. ""Understanding this, I spent the past several months meeting individually with each interested applicant. The passion for service and love of country that these students exuded was truly inspiring, and I am pleased to announce today the names of those I have nominated to each Academy. I offer these students my sincere congratulations and wish them the best of luck throughout the rest of the admissions process.""

Sixth District Nominations for the Class of 2026:

United States Naval Academy:

Charles Armes, senior at Heritage High School and a resident of Lynchburg

Darian Belisle, freshman at Mary Baldwin University and a resident of Staunton

Zachary Hodgen, senior at Wilson Memorial High School and a resident of Fishersville

Seamus Looney, senior at Rockbridge High School and a resident of Lexington

Logan Perry, senior at Stuarts Draft High School and a resident of Stuarts Draft

Weston Rogers, freshman at James Madison University and a resident of Harrisonburg

Alice Sherman, senior at Patrick Henry High School and a resident of Roanoke

Patrick Uhlenkott, freshman at Franciscan University of Steubenville and a resident of Front Royal

Jacob Warner, senior at The New Community School and a resident of Rockbridge

United States Military Academy:

Kameron Burns, senior at Heritage High School and a resident of Lynchburg

Lance Dorman, senior at Fishburne Military School and a resident New Market

Nathan Haskins, senior at Skyline High School and a resident of Front Royal

Cadless Jarvis, senior at Fishburne Military School and a resident of Waynesboro

Robert Miller, senior at William Byrd High School and a resident of Roanoke

Noah Miller, senior at Turner Ashby High School and a resident of Bridgewater

Kaiden Minter, senior at Northside High School and a resident of Roanoke

Andrew Sakamoto, senior at Hidden Valley High School and a resident of Roanoke

Dillon Stowers, senior at Liberty Christian Academy and a resident of Lynchburg

McKenna Vess, senior at Wilson Memorial High School and a resident of Waynesboro

United States Air Force Academy:

Bradley Colkitt, senior at Jefferson Forest High School and a resident of Lynchburg

Jarred Newcomb, senior at Jefferson Forest High School and a resident of Forest

Jakob Presley, freshman at Lord Fairfax Community College and a resident of Maurertown

Mariela Ruiz, senior at Waynesboro High School and a resident of Waynesboro

Francis Treutlein, senior at Warren County High School and a resident of Linden

United States Merchant Marine Academy:

Connor Wolfe, senior at Parry McCluer High School and a resident of Buena Vista

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1086,Rep. Cline Expresses Concern Over the Silencing of Students at Washington and Lee University,2021-10-29,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"LEXINGTON, Virginia – Today, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) sent the following letter to President William Dudley of Washington and Lee University. The letter responds to reports that Washington and Lee University ordered a student group to remove materials supporting a state-wide candidate for office from its booth at an annual activities fair.

Cline was joined in this letter by Washington and Lee University alumni Representatives Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Joe Wilson (SC-02), and Neal Dunn (FL-02).

""Far too often across the country we see censorship on college campuses,"" Cline said. ""Free speech, particularly with regard to political discourse, plays a critical role in furthering discussions that have the ability to shape individuals' lives and communities. I urge President Dudley to uphold his institution's mission statement to provide a liberal arts education that develops students' capacity to think freely, critically, and humanely and to conduct themselves with honor, integrity, and civility. These principles are paramount to preparing individuals to contribute thoughtfully to society.""

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1084,Rep. Clines Office to Host Service Academy Day in Lexington,2021-08-20,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"LEXINGTON, Virginia – The office of Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) will host a Service Academy Day on Saturday, August 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Rockbridge County High School in Lexington.

Students and their parents will be provided information on the application, nomination, selection, and appointment processes. Representatives from the various service academies are expected to be in attendance to answer questions.

The United States Military Academy at West Point, New York

The United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland

The United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado

The United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York

""Attending one of our Nation's Service Academies is a great honor and a tremendous opportunity for Sixth District students,"" Cline said. ""I encourage those interested in attending a service academy to participate in this event to learn more about the admissions process.""

An academy appointment is highly competitive, where each academy selects nominees based on moral character, scholastic achievement, physical fitness, leadership, and college admission test scores. The earlier a student begins preparation, the more competitive that student will be in the process.

To sign up for this event, please visit Eventbrite here: https://clineacademyday.eventbrite.com

Registration closes at 5pm on Friday, August 27. More information on Service Academy Day and the nomination process may be found by visiting https://cline.house.gov/services/military-academy-nominations or calling Congressman Cline's office at (434) 845-8306.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1083,Rep. Cline Introduces Bill to Eliminate Wasteful and Expansive Government Agency,2021-08-03,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Last week, Congressmen Ben Cline (VA-06) introduced H.R. 4866 - the Federal Insurance Office Elimination Act.

Created by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, the Federal Insurance Office is a glaring example of redundancy and overreach within the Treasury Department. Continuing its expansion, President Biden recently issued an Executive Order which further delegates the responsibilities of the state level insurance regulators to the Federal government. This legislation would eliminate the unnecessary Federal Insurance Office.

""As a member of the Virginia General Assembly, I stood against Federal overreach into areas traditionally reserved for states and localities. When the Federal government began to apply duplicative and onerous regulations on insurance, costs went up for millions of Americans. Repealing authorization for this expansive bureaucracy, known as the Federal Insurance Office, is a positive step toward draining the swamp and in returning power to the states and people where it rightfully belongs.""

Text of the legislation can be found here. Background on why this bill is necessary can be found here.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1082,Rep. Cline Introduces Bill to Ensure Accountability in Agency Rulemaking,2021-07-21,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressmen Ben Cline (R-VA) and Jared Golden (D-ME) announced the introduction of H.R. 4434 - the Ensuring Accountability in Agency Rulemaking Act.

This legislation would require all rules proposed by Federal agencies, except in limited circumstances, to be signed and issued by an individual appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.

The Supreme Court held in Buckley v. Valeo (1976) that rule making is a significant government power that may be exercised only by officers appointed in accordance with the Constitution's Appointments Clause, and more recently, Court decisions, such as in Edmond v. United States (1997) support the conclusion that only principal agency officers such as Department Heads and Assistant Secretaries confirmed by the Senate may issue regulations that have the force of law and cannot be amended without another rulemaking procedure.

Unfortunately, compliance with constitutional rulemaking requirements has been inconsistent, which undermines accountability and opens agencies up to legal challenges because of improperly issued rules.

Rep. Cline said, ""Rules promulgated by Federal agencies effectively hold the same weight as law, and having rules issued by unelected career bureaucrats rather than an individual appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate is unacceptable. This bill seeks to uphold the traditions and values of our Republic, and it will ensure there is no question surrounding the legality of rules coming out of our Federal agencies.""

Rep. Golden said, ""Federal regulations should be made by officials who are accountable to Congress and the American people. I'm proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort.""

Text of the legislation can be found here.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1081,Rep. Cline Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Increase Opportunities for Veterans,2021-07-16,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) introduced H.R. 4433, the Veterans Entrepreneurship Act of 2021. Cline was joined by Congressmen Lou Correa (D-CA), and Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) in introducing this bill.

The Veterans Entrepreneurship Act of 2021 would allow veterans the opportunity to pursue their small business and entrepreneurial aspirations by giving them access to resources through the Small Business Administration and their GI Bill benefit. The key components of the Veteran Entrepreneurship Act are:

The establishment of a 3-year pilot program overseen by the Administrator of the Small Business Administration that will enable up to 250 GI Bill benefit-eligible veterans to pursue an educational entrepreneurial training program

The pilot program includes a thorough application process and requires participation in an approved entrepreneurial training program

Veterans are required to develop a business plan to be approved by their training program advisor and the SBA's Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development

The grant available to veterans participating in this pilot program may be equivalent to the GI Bill maximum amount of 36 months of educational assistance at the rate in effect for each veteran through the GI Bill benefit program

If approved, the grant can be used by a veteran to open their own business or purchase a franchise

Rep. Ben Cline said, ""Veterans face a daunting mission when they separate from service and transition into civilian life. Higher education is essential for many, but some have a different calling. Veterans are seeking more options and want the choice to use their GI Bill benefit to start their own business. It's common sense to offer veterans a choice in accessing resources, training, and support to pursue the American dream to start a small business, create jobs, and generate growth in our economy. I thank Congressmen Correa and Fortenberry for joining me in this effort to give back to those who have given so much in service to our country.""

Rep. Lou Correa said, ""By helping veterans start businesses, we are investing in America's best and brightest. When our servicemembers transition into civilian life, they bring considerable skills and experiences with them. Each is a trained leader who has proven they can get things done in the most stressful environments. Veterans know how to manage risk on the battlefield. That's what soldiers train to do. And that's what a successful entrepreneur does — manage risk. Our veterans are uniquely capable of contributing to our communities. I'm proud to join with Rep. Ben Cline to introduce bipartisan legislation that invests in entrepreneur veterans and encourages them to pursue the American Dream.""

Rep. Jeff Fortenberry said, ""Veteran-owned businesses represent nearly 10% of U.S. small businesses, employing more than five million Americans. I am pleased to support the reintroduction of the Veterans Entrepreneurship Act to give our veterans access to entrepreneurial training and capital through the use of their G.I. Bill benefits.""

Text of the bill can be found here.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1080,Rep. Cline Statement on Metropolitan Statistical Areas Population Criteria,2021-07-14,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, in response to a letter Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) co-authored to the Office of Management and Budget, the agency announced it is rescinding a proposed change to the population criteria used to designate Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs).

As defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, a Metropolitan or Micropolitan Statistical Area is that of a core area containing a substantial population nucleus, together with adjacent communities having a high degree of economic and social integration with that core. These designations are used in-part to determine Federal funding levels and economic development opportunities.

Earlier this year, the Office of Management and Budget proposed raising the population criteria for Metropolitan Statistical Areas from 50,000 residents to 100,000 residents.

Had the Office of Management and Budget not rescinded this proposal, cities like Harrisonburg and Staunton would have lost their MSA designation, and thus would not qualify for higher levels of Federal funding.

""The proposal to change the population criteria for Metropolitan Statistical Areas would have hurt Sixth District localities, and I am pleased that the Office of Management and Budget acknowledged my concerns and reversed course,"" Cline said. ""The decision to maintain the 50,000 resident threshold is a win for the people of Harrisonburg and Staunton, and I am proud to have played a part in ensuring this arbitrary proposal did not come to fruition.""

The Office of Management and Budget's announcement can be found here.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1079,Rep. Cline Introduces Amendment to Declassify Wuhan Lab Leak Intelligence,2021-07-01,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) introduced an amendment in the State and Foreign Operations Appropriations bill to require the declassification of intelligence related to any potential links between the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) and the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. Similar legislation was passed unanimously by the Senate recently.

Congressman Cline's amendment states that funding authorized for the World Health Organization (WHO) in the State and Foreign Operations Appropriations bill would be withheld until the Director of National Intelligence has declassified the aforementioned information.

""From the very beginning, the Chinese Communist Party covered up the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic and hindered investigations at every turn,"" Cline said. ""Life as we know it was put on pause for more than a year, and the American people, as well as the rest of the world, deserve answers. If there is any intelligence related to the origins of the pandemic, it must be released to ensure both transparency and accountability.""

Cline also introduced a separate amendment that would withhold funding from the WHO until the Secretary of State certifies and reports to Congress that the WHO has conducted a transparent international forensic investigation into the origins of COVID-19 and implemented amendments to the International Health Regulations to improve transparency in response to outbreaks of infectious diseases.

A copy of the amendments can be found here and here.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1077,Rep. Cline Statement on the Passing of Former Senator John Warner,2021-05-26,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) issued the below statement following the death of former U.S. Senator and Secretary of the Navy, John Warner (R-VA).

""Today Virginians mourn the loss of John Warner, a man whose life's work was dedicated to serving others and the Commonwealth. He will be remembered as a staple of Virginia politics who was unrelenting in his efforts to bolster our Nation's military to ensure the safety and security of the United States. John fought tirelessly for the people of Virginia, and his life and legacy will not soon be forgotten. Elizabeth and I offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and to all of those who were fortunate enough to know him.""

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1075,Reps. Cline and Nadler Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect American Consumers From Counterfeit Goods,2021-05-24,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Recently, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06), House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler (D-NY), Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet Chairman Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr. (D-GA), and Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet Ranking Member Darrell Issa (R-CA) introduced the Stopping Harmful Offers on Platforms by Screening Against Fakes in E-Commerce (SHOP SAFE) Act to stop the online sale of dangerous counterfeits.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans spent $791.7 billion on e-commerce in 2020, up over 30% from 2019. As more consumers opt to shop online, they are increasingly vulnerable to the rising number of counterfeit goods sold on e-commerce platforms. The COVID-19 pandemic has also exacerbated this potential harm as the amount of time consumers spend online and the types of high-risk counterfeits available on these platforms have risen. The SHOP SAFE Act reduces the availability of harmful counterfeit products online by incentivizing platforms to engage in best practices for vetting sellers and goods, addressing repeat counterfeiter sellers, and ensuring consumers have access to relevant information at the time of purchase. By reducing the number of counterfeits in the market, this legislation also protects the integrity and authenticity of the products.

""As online retailers continue to grow and increasingly work with unverified third-party vendors, Congress must take steps to protect American consumers from both physical and financial harm, as well as protect the integrity and authenticity of the products,"" Cline said. ""The SHOP SAFE Act will help ensure consumers get the product they paid for by curbing the flow of counterfeit goods, many of which come from China. It would also aid in dismantling revenue sources for terror organizations who rely in-part on the sale of fake goods to fund their operations.""

The SHOP SAFE Act would:

Establish trademark liability for companies who sell counterfeits that pose a risk to consumer health and safety.

Require online platforms to establish best practices to vet sellers to ensure their legitimacy, remove counterfeit listings, and remove sellers who repeatedly sell counterfeits.

Call for online marketplaces to take steps necessary to prevent the continued sale of counterfeits by the third-party seller or face contributory liability for their actions.

Background on counterfeits:

Courts currently will not hold the online seller responsible for selling counterfeits to consumers regardless of the fact that the seller is responsible for every step in the transaction.

Many counterfeits do not undergo safety testing and pose a substantial health and safety risk for consumers and pose a financial risk for companies. Products like cosmetics, baby formula, batteries, chargers, air bags, car seats, and brakes are a few of the potentially life-threatening counterfeits currently sold online.

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that 20 of 47 items purchased from third party sellers on popular consumer websites were counterfeit.

Text of the bill can be found here.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1074,Rep. Cline Announces 2021 Congressional Art Competition,2021-04-13,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) announced his office's participation in the 2021 Congressional Art Competition. The Congressional Art Competition is sponsored by the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia.

The Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students in the District. The winning artwork will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol alongside other pieces from across the country and will also be featured on House.gov's Congressional Art Competition page.

""All students from Virginia's Sixth Congressional District are encouraged to participate in this year's art competition,"" Cline said. ""This is a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their artistic ability and for the selected winner to have his or her artwork on display at the Capitol for the next year.""

Artwork must be two-dimensional. Each framed artwork can be no larger than 26 inches high, 26 inches wide, and 4 inches deep. The winning artist is responsible for framing the piece. Even when framed, it must still measure no larger than the above maximum dimensions. No framed piece should weigh more than 15 pounds. Additional guidelines can be found here.

Accepted mediums for the two-dimensional artwork are as follows:

• Paintings: oil, acrylics, watercolor, etc.

• Drawings: colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, charcoal (It is recommended that charcoal and pastel drawings be fixed.)

• Collages: must be two-dimensional

• Prints: lithographs, silkscreen, block prints

• Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor, etc.

• Computer-generated art

• Photographs

Each entry must be original in concept, design, and execution and may not violate U.S. copyright laws. Any entry that has been copied from an existing photo or image (including a painting, graphic, or advertisement) that was created by someone other than the student is a violation of the competition rules and will not be accepted.

Students should submit photographs of their entry and the Student Release Form to ArtCompetitionVA06@mail.house.gov.

The Student Release Form can be found here.

Entries are due by May 3, 2021. For more information, contact District Director Debbie Garrett at (540) 885-3861 or Staff Assistant Eli Galiano at (202) 225-5431.

Emily McClung of Lexington was the Sixth District's 2020 winner, and her painting ""Lemonade,"" featured here, currently hangs in the U.S. Capitol.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1073,Rep. Cline Legislation to Aid Small Businesses Signed into Law,2021-03-30,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Saturday, March 27, President Biden signed H.R. 1651, the COVID–19 Bankruptcy Relief Extension Act of 2021, which was introduced by Congressman Ben Cline and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler (NY-10).

This action follows the 2019 passage and signing of Congressman Cline's Small Business Reorganization Act, which simplified the process for entrepreneurs to use bankruptcy as a means of reorganization. Under this bill, businesses with less than $2.7 million of debt could file for bankruptcy in a timelier and more cost-effective manner. While in bankruptcy reorganization, a small business can negotiate with creditors while keeping the doors open, employees on payroll, and suppliers and vendors paid.

In 2020, a provision in the CARES Act raised the $2.7 million threshold to $7.5 million. This provision was set to expire on March 27, 2021. The COVID–19 Bankruptcy Relief Extension Act of 2021 extends this provision, and thus the $7.5 million threshold, for an additional year.

""The Small Business Reorganization Act has served as a lifeline for struggling businesses throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,"" Cline said. ""Since its inception, 80 percent of small business debtors have chosen to proceed under the provisions of this bill meaning more entrepreneurs have been able to keep their doors open and employees on payroll during these uncertain times. By extending the debt threshold for eligibility, significantly more businesses can take advantage of this bill.""

The bill, which originally passed the House of Representatives on March 17, was amended and passed by the Senate on March 24 and passed again in the House by unanimous consent on March 26. A copy of Congressman Cline's remarks on the House Floor promoting this bill can be found here.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1072,Rep. Cline Urges Gov. Northam to Raise the Number of Spectators Allowed at Outdoor High School Sporting Events,2021-03-04,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) wrote to Governor Northam urging him to increase the maximum number of spectators allowed at outdoor high school sporting events to 50 percent capacity or 500 people, whichever is greater, as well as to advocate that the Governor follow the CDC's six-foot social distancing guidelines, rather than 10 feet as declared in his Order.

Governor Northam recently modified Executive Order 72 specifying, ""For sports played outdoors the total number of spectators cannot exceed the lesser of 30 percent of the occupancy load of the certificate of occupancy for the venue or 250 spectators per field. Spectators must wear masks over their nose and mouth in accordance with section II. Ten feet of physical distance must be maintained between spectators who are not Family members.""

""Every student-athlete deserves the opportunity to play the sport he or she loves while being safely cheered on by their family and friends, especially during a time that has taken a significant mental toll on our Nation's youth,"" Cline said. ""Governor Northam's decision to require 10-foot distancing and allow no more than 250 fans at an outdoor stadium that potentially holds thousands is insufficient. I strongly urge the Governor to revise his Executive Order to increase attendance capacity at outdoor high school sporting events, as well as call for him to follow the CDC's social distancing guidance of six feet instead of ten. Precautions are still necessary, but they must also be reasonable.""

Congressman Bob Good (VA-05) joined Congressman Cline on this letter, which can be found here.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1071,Rep. Cline to Vote No on Democrats $1.9 Trillion Wishlist,2021-02-27,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) released the below statement ahead of this evening's vote on H.R. 1319.

""Our families, our farmers, and our small businesses need our continued support as we navigate this COVID pandemic and work to reopen our economy, but they don't need a $1.9 trillion package riddled with Democrat pork,"" Cline said. ""While I could support additional relief to help get folks back to work and kids back in school, any further aid must be targeted, temporary, and actually tied to COVID. Not only is this legislation riddled with wasteful spending unrelated to COVID and bailouts for blue states like New York and California, but with more than $1 trillion in previously authorized coronavirus funds still unspent, it is premature. While there could be provisions of this bill that I would support as standalone legislation, H.R. 1319 as a whole is wasteful, partisan, and deeply flawed. For these reasons, I will be voting no this evening.""

A few of the most egregious provisions unrelated to COVID contained in this legislation are listed below:

$15 minimum wage hike which was ruled out of order in the Senate and will cost 1.4 million American jobs per the nonpartisan CBO.

$350 billion to bailout blue states that have mismanaged their pensions and other programs for years

$12 billion in foreign aid

$1.5 billion for Amtrak

$112 million for an underground rail system in California

$50 million in funding for EPA environmental justice grants

$10 million in grants to preserve Native American languages

$1.5 million for a bridge connecting the U.S. and Canada

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1070,Rep. Cline Leads Letter Calling on Governor Northam to Support Struggling Small Businesses,2021-02-18,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) was joined by Congressmen Wittman and Good in writing to Governor Northam encouraging him and the General Assembly to fully conform state tax law to the federal government's recently enacted tax law and allow for full deductibility of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans in order to ensure the recovery of Virginia small businesses.

As part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act passed last year, Congress provided for the full deductibility of necessary business expenses that were paid with a forgiven or forgivable PPP loan. The General Assembly is currently considering whether to conform Virginia state tax law to that of the federal government, and at what level the state will allow for the deductibility of forgiven or forgivable PPP loans.

""The Paycheck Protection Program has served as a lifeline to more than 100,000 Virginia small businesses and their employees since the pandemic began,"" Cline said. ""Congress made its intent clear that these loans were to be forgiven and fully deductible due to COVID-19, and now it is time for Governor Northam and the General Assembly to do their part and support mom and pop shops across the Commonwealth. Failing to conform state tax law with that of the federal government would stick those most in need with a sizable tax bill they did not expect and cannot afford. I am confident those serving in Richmond will do the right thing.""

The full letter can be found here.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1069,Rep. Cline Announces U.S. Service Academy Nominations for the Class of 2025,2021-01-26,2021,2021-01,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) announced the names of the students within the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia whom he has nominated to join the Class of 2025 at one of four U.S. Service Academies.

Applicants to the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy require a nomination from a Member of Congress or another nominating authority. Several students were nominated to more than one Service Academy and are listed alphabetically below.

""One of the most important responsibilities I have as the Representative for Virginia's Sixth District is the nomination of high school seniors and others to one of four United States Service Academies,"" Cline said. ""Understanding this, I spent the past several months meeting individually with each interested applicant. The passion for service and love of country that these students exuded was truly inspiring, and I am pleased to announce today the names of those I have nominated to each Academy. I offer these students my sincere congratulations and wish them the best of luck throughout the rest of the admissions process.""

Sixth District Nominations for the Class of 2025:

United States Naval Academy:

Darian Belisle, senior at Fishburne Military School and a resident of Staunton.

Andrew Bergmann, senior at Warren County High School and a resident of Front Royal.

Clara Sanchez Bonneau, senior at Warren County High School and a resident of Front Royal.

Georgia Enyart, senior at Cave Springs High School and a resident of Roanoke.

Noah Harding, student at Greystone Prep School and a resident of Roanoke.

Henry Hermes, senior at Harrisonburg High School and a resident of Harrisonburg.

Aiden Ivers, senior at Grace Christian School and a resident of Front Royal.

Kyle Kendall, senior at Rockbridge County High School and a resident of Lexington.

Thomas Kent, senior at E.C. Glass High School and a resident of Lynchburg.

Virginia Robert, senior at New Covenant Schools and a resident of Lynchburg.

Nathan Tucker, senior at Liberty Christian Academy and a resident of Lynchburg.

Patrick Uhlenkott, senior at White Oaks High School and a resident of Front Royal.

Christopher Winfield, senior at Stuarts Draft High School and a resident of Stuarts Draft.

United States Military Academy:

Darian Belisle, senior at Fishburne Military School and a resident of Staunton.

John Pond, senior at Warren County High School and a resident of Front Royal.

Clara Sanchez Bonneau, senior at Warren County High School and a resident of Front Royal.

Parker Schemm, senior at Hidden Valley High School and a resident of Roanoke.

James White, senior at Fishburne Military School and a resident of Rockingham.

United States Air Force Academy:

Beck Anderson, senior at E.C. Glass High School and resident of Lynchburg.

Henry Hermes, senior at Harrisonburg High School and a resident of Harrisonburg.

Aiden Ivers, senior at Grace Christian School and a resident of Front Royal.

Alexander Knick, senior at Wilson Memorial High School and a resident of Fishersville.

John Pond, senior at Warren County High School and a resident of Front Royal.

Jakob Presley, student at Lord Fairfax Community College and a resident of Maurertown.

Zechariah Shutt, senior at Staunton High School and a resident of Staunton.

Christopher Winfield, senior at Stuarts Draft High School and a resident of Stuarts Draft.

United States Merchant Marine Academy:

Jacob Carver, senior at Randolph-Macon Academy and a resident of Front Royal.

Reid Garrison, senior at Broadway High School and a resident of Harrisonburg.

Noah Harding, student at Greystone Prep School and a resident of Roanoke.

Virginia Robert, senior at New Covenant Schools and a resident of Lynchburg.

Patrick Uhlenkott, senior at White Oaks High School and a resident of Front Royal.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:19:43Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1068,Rep. Cline Statement on the Inauguration of President Joe Biden,2021-01-20,2021,2021-01,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Ben Cline released the below statement following the Inauguration of President Joe Biden.

""I attended today's Inauguration of President Joe Biden out of respect for the office of the Presidency and to commemorate the peaceful transfer of power that has become a cornerstone of our American Republic,"" Cline said. ""However, we must forge beyond this moment in history to meet the short and long-term challenges facing our country. As I have for the last two years, I will continue to support fiscal responsibility and reducing burdensome regulations, defeating the COVID-19 virus while getting Americans back to work and back in school, securing our borders, and supporting our brave men and women in uniform. After four years of progress, we cannot afford a third term of the Obama era's failed policies. Already, the Biden Administration has announced a first-day agenda that will drag our country backward during a time in which our Nation desperately needs to move forward. With Democrats controlling both Chambers of Congress and the White House, I will continue to strongly advocate for the commonsense conservative values of the citizens of Virginia's Sixth Congressional District.""

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:19:43Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1067,Rep. Cline Statement on House Effort to Impeach President Trump,2021-01-12,2021,2021-01,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) released the below statement amid efforts by House Democrats to impeach President Trump.

""Attempts to impeach the President in his final 8 days in office will only further fuel the political divide among our citizens and will be detrimental to long-term efforts to unify our country. Both President Trump and President-Elect Biden have called for a peaceful transition of power, so I would urge Speaker Pelosi to reconsider pursuing Articles of Impeachment. Now is a time to get back to work addressing the issues most important to the American people,"" Cline said.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:19:43Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1066,Rep. Cline Statement on the Passing of Capitol Police Officer Brian D. Sicknick,2021-01-08,2021,2021-01,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) released the below statement following the death of Capitol Police Officer Brian D. Sicknick, who succumbed to injuries he sustained at the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

""Elizabeth and I are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Capitol Police Officer Brian D. Sicknick, who sustained a fatal injury while engaging rioters at the Capitol earlier this week,"" Cline said. ""Our Nation mourns the loss of Officer Sicknick, who gave his life in defense of the People's House. Congress stands united in our rejection of the violence that occurred this week, and I continue to urge the swift prosecution of those involved to the fullest extent of the law.""

Officer Sicknick joined the Capitol Police in 2008. His death marks the fourth time in the department's two-century history that an officer was killed in the line of duty.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:19:43Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1065,Rep. Cline to Support Objections to Presidential Electors on January 6,2021-01-05,2021,2021-01,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representative Ben Cline (VA-06) today announced that he will support objections to the Electoral College certification process on Wednesday, January 6. He released the following statement:

On January 6, 2021, the U.S. House and Senate will convene in a joint session to open the electoral votes submitted by state government officials, certify their validity, count them, and declare the official result of the election. As the representative of Virginia's Sixth Congressional District, I took an oath to uphold the Constitution, and this is a duty that I do not take lightly or without thoughtful consideration and deliberation.

Article II, Section 1, Clause 2 of the Constitution provides that each state shall appoint its electors for president, ""in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct."" Fortunately, all Legislatures have decided to choose electors through statewide elections, and most appoint all electors to the winner of the statewide popular vote. In addition, the state Legislatures have enacted laws with detailed election rules and procedures by which voters are to choose their presidential electors.

But in the months preceding the 2020 election, those rules and procedures established by the state Legislatures were deliberately changed by a number of individuals, including governors, secretaries of state, elections officials, judges, and private parties. These changes are in direct violation of Article II, Section 1, Clause 2 of the Constitution. That usurpation of the Legislatures' constitutional authority was a primary reason why the 2020 election became riddled with an unprecedented number of allegations of irregularities and improprieties. As a result, prior to the vote last month of the Electoral College, I joined 125 other Members of Congress in urging the Supreme Court to resolve the question surrounding the constitutionality of these slates of electors. Unfortunately, that case was rejected on the basis of insufficient standing. It was not resolved on the merits.

Therefore, because I continue to have serious concerns regarding the constitutionality of these electors, I will vote to uphold objections to their certification on January 6.

Some have cited the Twelfth Amendment in suggesting that our role on January 6 is limited to counting the electoral votes. However, that argument is only relevant if Congress first confirms that the electors were chosen in compliance with Article II, Section 1. Clearly, the electors in these states were not. The authority of the Legislatures in these states was unconstitutionally appropriated by others.

In my office in Washington, I use my chair from the Virginia House of Delegates that I bought when both chambers were renovated back in 2008. It's old, and the springs are shot, but it reminds me that in our system of government, the states are the alpha and omega. It was the states that created the Federal government, and it was the states that created our local governments as well. Our founders set up a system of, by, and for the people that placed the state Legislatures at its very heart, and that heart still beats strongly today.

It has been my great honor to represent the citizens of the Sixth Congressional District in the House of Representatives over the last two years, and I am grateful to them for re-electing me to another two years last November. But it was my sixteen years in the Virginia House of Delegates, sitting in the Capitol built by Thomas Jefferson to house the oldest elected Legislature in the Western Hemisphere, that shaped my opinions about the roles and responsibilities of all levels and all branches of government. As I stand in defense of our Constitution and the principles enshrined within it, I also stand in defense of the authority of state Legislatures across this great Nation, the citizens they represent, and the great democratic experiment that has endured for centuries. May it continue to endure for many more, and may God continue to Bless these United States of America.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:19:43Z
https://cline.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cline-statement-being-sworn-117th-congress,Rep. Cline Statement on Being Sworn In to the 117th Congress,2021-01-03,2021,2021-01,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) released the below statement after being sworn in as a Member of the 117th Congress.
While serving the people of Virginia's Sixth District these past two years, I have foughtto defend the Constitution andput America first, protect the sanctity of life, defend the Second Amendment, secure our borders, lift regulatory burdens on businesses and farmers, drain the DC swamp, and promote fiscal responsibility. As the 117th Congress begins today, I will continue to fight for these conservative values in an effort to move our country forward and work tirelessly on behalf of those whom I am blessed to represent, Cline said.
Congressman Cline was first elected in 2018 and has served as a Member of the House of Representatives since January 3, 2019.
Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://cline.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1064,Rep. Cline Statement on Being Sworn In to the 117th Congress,2021-01-03,2021,2021-01,Republican,House,VA,Ben Cline,C001118,cline.house.gov,cline,https://cline.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) released the below statement after being sworn in as a Member of the 117th Congress.

""While serving the people of Virginia's Sixth District these past two years, I have fought to defend the Constitution and put America first, protect the sanctity of life, defend the Second Amendment, secure our borders, lift regulatory burdens on businesses and farmers, drain the DC swamp, and promote fiscal responsibility. As the 117th Congress begins today, I will continue to fight for these conservative values in an effort to move our country forward and work tirelessly on behalf of those whom I am blessed to represent,"" Cline said.

Congressman Cline was first elected in 2018 and has served as a Member of the House of Representatives since January 3, 2019.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:19:43Z
https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3451,"Wittman sworn in to 117th Congress, vows to ‘work tirelessly’ for Virginians",2021-01-03,2021,2021-01,Republican,House,VA,Robert Wittman,W000804,wittman.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) issued the following statement after officially being sworn in to the 117th Congress:
The past Congress, while divided in our political viewpoints and stalled in the quagmire of partisan posturing, accomplished much for the American people, during some of the most difficult times in our history: unprecedented pandemic relief legislation for small businesses and hardworking individuals, bipartisan and bicameral support for our armed forces and their families, investments in expanding rural broadband access and improvements to our nation's infrastructure, and much more.
As we look down our long road to recovery, there is still much to be done, and much more to be done to ensure we get our nation's fiscal house in order. I am honored to be returning as the representative for the First District of Virginia in the 117th Congress and I will continue to work tirelessly on the issues that matter most to my constituents.
We must continue our work on improving our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, further expanding broadband access, ensuring our military has the resources it needs to defend the homeland, further promoting workforce development through CTE/STEM programs, protecting our natural resources for future generations, solving our transportation and infrastructure issues, and better providing our Veterans with the benefits they have earned. I am committed to getting things done for the First District and will continue fighting for local priorities.
Congressman Rob Wittman represents the 1st District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402404,Griffith Statement on the Passing of State Senator Ben Chafin,2021-01-01,2021,2021-01,Republican,Senate,VA,Morgan Griffith,G000568,morgangriffith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Griffith Statement on the Passing of State Senator Ben Chafin 
  
     

  

  
  
  

  
    
      Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement on the passing of state Senator Ben Chafin:
Senator Ben Chafin was a great legislator as well as a friend. As a native of Southwest Virginia, he cared deeply for its people and was a tremendous advocate for them in the state Senate. I will miss this good and dedicated public servant. My prayers are with his wife Lora and his family.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z