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://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-omnibus-funding-bill-passage,Reichert Statement on Omnibus Funding Bill Passage,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) released the following statement after the passage of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015: ""I applaud the passage of tonight’s bill that will keep the government open. This bipartisan, bicameral measure will responsibly fund our nation’s priorities, including measures to protect jobs, strengthen education, improve access to healthcare, rein in government overreach, and support our troops and first responders. When we return to Congress next year, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to further address the nation’s challenges.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/senate-passes-reichert-alpine-lakes-legislation,Senate Passes Reichert Alpine Lakes Legislation,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the United States Senate passed legislation from U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) and Senator Patty Murray to expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area in Washington State and designate both the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic.  The legislation was included as part of the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Rep. Reichert first introduced legislation to designate the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area in 2007, and he has since tirelessly championed its passage in order to preserve the stunning landscape for future generations. The House passed the 2014 NDAA, with the wilderness legislation, last week. “I am so pleased to see the Alpine Lakes legislation pass the Senate today, sending it to the President for signature to become law,” said Reichert. “This has been a priority project of mine since 2007 when I first introduced it. The process has involved a lot of hard work and patience, but we came together and got it through Congress, and now it’s on its way to the President’s desk where it is expected to be signed into law shortly. Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area is truly one of the gems of Washington State and I am excited to see this beautiful natural and economic legacy preserved for our children and grandchildren.” The existing Alpine Lakes Wilderness was designated by Congress in 1976 and is one of the most visited wilderness areas in the country. Key elements of the Alpine Lakes legislation include: Providing the protection of the Wilderness Act of 1964 for the lower elevation lands, which will bring a richer diversity of ecosystems, including deeply forested valleys, into the wilderness area and increase its overall biodiversity. The addition of these 21,000 acres of public land into wilderness has the direct effect of protecting a broader array of outdoor recreational opportunities easily accessible for wilderness enthusiasts. Designating the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic, which would permanently protect the rivers’ free-flowing character, water quality and outstanding recreation, fisheries, wildlife, geological and ecological values. This designation provides for many recreational activities including unique backcountry hiking, kayaking, and white water rafting that is unheard of so close to a major urban center. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-1) is a co-sponsor of the House legislation",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398488,U.S. House Passes 2015 Funding Measure Addressing Key Southwest Washington Priorities,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today the U.S. House of Representatives approved the 2015 government funding bill that includes several Southwest Washington priorities championed by Jaime Herrera Beutler. share: f t Today the U.S. House of Representatives approved the 2015 government funding bill that includes several Southwest Washington priorities championed by Jaime Herrera Beutler. During passage of the bill, Jaime also secured assurances from U.S. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy that the Secure Rural Schools program that counties like Lewis, Skamania, and Cowlitz rely on for essential school and emergency services funding would be addressed as a top priority in 2015. The priorities and spending levels in this bill are based on the multiple Appropriations bills written, debated and approved throughout 2014. As a member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, Jaime helped craft these bills that have continued the overall reduction of discretionary spending by $165 billion since 2010.  Projected out over ten years, that will save taxpayers $2.13 trillion. “It’s vital that critical federal services aren’t disrupted, and that we fund government in a way that saves taxpayer dollars and focuses on the priorities that matter to Southwest Washington residents– and this bill mostly accomplishes those goals,” said Jaime. “I’ve fought hard to ensure that Congress maintains the ports and waterways for our coastal communities, confronts devastating wildfires, ensures Hanford cleanup can continue, and addresses other critical needs in this bill. “Though the U.S. House has twice passed long term legislation I’ve championed to responsibly fund the Secure Rural Schools program, the Senate has failed to act on these bills and now we reach year’s end with our rural counties in a crisis situation.  I will not cease in my efforts to restore this funding so that schools in Skamania County, Lewis County, and throughout rural Washington can keep operating, and I want to thank Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy for his assurances to me on the U.S. House Floor today that Congress will make Secure Rural Schools a top priority when we reconvene in 2015.” Established in 2000 as a lifeline to rural communities impacted by restrictive federal forest policies, the Secure Rural Schools program provides funding for schools and emergency services in lieu of timber operation receipts. CLICK HERE TO WATCH JAIME SPEAKING ON SECURE RURAL SCHOOLS Southwest Washington priorities included in the bill: Saving taxpayer dollars: The bill continues the trend of saving taxpayer dollars, contributing to the $165 billion in savings through the Appropriations process since FY 2010. Specifically, the bill:   • Reduces the IRS budget to pre-2008 levels for a savings of $345 million;   • Rescinds $40 million in “performance bonuses” within the VA;   • Provides no new funding for the President’s health care law and makes $10 million in cuts to the controversial, unaccountable, unelected Independent Payment Advisory Board charged with cutting Medicare for seniors;   • Cuts the Environmental Protection Agency’s budget through staff reductions. Accountability for executive overreach: ​While most of the federal government budgets overseen by the Appropriations Committee are funded in this bill through September 30, 2015, the Department of Homeland Security is only funded through February 27, 2015. This is an initial response to the President’s unilateral action on immigration – a move that, by his own admission, exceeds his constitutional authority. The short term funding window aims to give Congress time to confront the President’s action and more adequately address the nation’s broken immigration system. Dredging and harbor maintenance: Jaime was able to secure $1.1 billion in harbor maintenance from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) with $42 million of the HMTF designated specifically for small ports like Ilwaco, Chinook and others along the Columbian River. Background: The HMTF was created with the purpose of waterway and port maintenance and is funded by a tax importers pay when using U.S. ports. Historically the fund takes in millions of dollars more each year than is expended. The bill also provides over $25 million for maintenance on the mouth of the Columbia River, including critical jetty rehabilitation. Wildfire prevention: Wildfires have been increasing in severity over the past several years, damaging forests, threatening safety, and forcing the Forest Service to tap into its budget for other services and priorities. The bill includes $3.5 billion for wildfire suppression and $526 million for hazardous fuel management. The bill also calls for active forest management to prevent wildfires by reducing the fuel load and creating healthier forest and more robust species habitat. Hanford clean-up: The bill restores $25 million not included in the President’s budget toward cleanup projects at the Hanford nuclear site. Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT): The bill includes $422 million for payments to counties with large portions of land owned by the federal government. These funds help offset the loss of property tax income that pays for education, emergency services, county road maintenance, and other critical services in Clark, Cowlitz, Klickitat, Lewis, Pacific, and Skamania Counties. Strengthens justice and law enforcement programs: The bill provides $42,250,000, an increase of $28,000,000 from FY14, to combat human trafficking—creating a special task force within the FBI to combat sex trafficking and broadening collaboration between across all agencies under Department of Justice. The bill also increases funds for drug courts based on their proven effectiveness in reducing recidivism, substance abuse, and crime among non-violent offenders; strengthens mentally ill offender programs; increases funding to strengthen domestic violence programs; and increases funding to address the backlog in processing sexual assault kits nationwide. Continued commitment to strong salmon recovery: Jaime was successful in maintaining the $65 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund (PCSRF) that she fought for earlier this year. PCRSF provides critical funding for recovery and sustainability projects to improve wild salmon and steelhead habitats on the Columbia River and throughout the western U.S. Since the program’s inception, over 11,800 PCSRF projects have been implemented, providing fish passage and restoring habitat to strengthen salmon recovery efforts. Community development grants protected: The President’s budget proposed additional requirements to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program that would make it harder for smaller communities to get CDBG grants. Jaime worked successfully to eliminate these requirements in the bill. Forest Road Maintenance and Construction: The bill would direct the U.S. Forest Service to maintain forest roads in a way that preserves recreational opportunity and reduces costs. Currently, the Forest Service cannot adequately maintain 4,078 miles of road and 115 road bridges in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Many of these roads pose safety, environmental and public health threats that must be addressed. This bill would direct the Forest Service to close and stabilize the roads as opposed to permanently decommissioning them. Along with the recreational opportunities and taxpayer savings created by this provision, access for firefighting and future forest management would still be available. Safety Regulations for Oil Trains: As a member of the Transportation Appropriations subcommittee, Jaime successfully fought to include important safety regulations for oil trains in that bill. It requires the U.S. Department of Transportation to issue a final rule for new tank car design standards by January 15, 2015, requires rail carriers to develop comprehensive oil spill response plans and improves the safety of railroad grade crossings. Aquatic Invasive Species: The nonnative quagga and zebra mussels have severely damaged freshwater ecosystems in the Northeast and Southwest U.S. This bill provides $4 million for containment, prevention, and enforcement to prevent the spread of these invasive species to uncontaminated bodies of water throughout Washington state.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/pacific-northwest-members-congress-call-president-urge-ports-resolution,Pacific Northwest Members of Congress Call on President to Urge Ports Resolution,2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Members of Congress Dave Reichert (WA-8), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-5), Doc Hastings (WA-4), Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-3), Kurt Schrader (OR-5), Greg Walden (OR-2), and Mike Simpson (ID-2) sent a letter to President Obama to ask that he encourage the International Longshoreman Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association to use a federal mediator in order to bring about a swift resolution to their current contract negotiations. The members said, “Communities throughout the Pacific Northwest and across the country rely on thriving ports – which support hundreds of thousands of jobs in our states – to export their products around the world. We strongly urge a swift resolution to the current contract negotiations because countless workers, farmers, consumers, businesses, and families depend on it.”   This is the second letter Pacific Northwest members of Congress have sent regarding the ILWU and PMA to call for a quick resolution. The first letter was sent directly to the organizations and the text can be found here. The full text of the letter to the president is below. Dear Mr. President, We urge you to encourage the International Longshoremen Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) to use a federal mediator in resolving their current contract negotiations. As members who represent areas which depend on ports, we are concerned about the length of these negotiations and the resulting impact on our constituents. As these negotiations continue, our ports are losing business we know will not return. This is detrimental to our ports, those who work at the ports and communities across the state. This significantly impacts the economy of the Pacific Northwest and the country as a whole. Each day, we are contacted by our constituents who are feeling the real impact of these negotiations on port operations. Efficient movement of goods is critical for all industries, including agriculture and manufacturing. Our specialty crop producers, who depend on international markets, are unable to export their products and meet customer demands. Our manufacturers face similar challenges of higher costs, lost sales, and delayed production. Across the globe, Washington state products are in demand, but our businesses are facing significant challenges in reaching these consumers. We recognize the serious task before the parties. However, after over six months of negations, we strongly believe a federal mediator has become necessary. Moreover, we are increasingly concerned that there could be a shutdown at the ports as occurred in 2002. It is estimated that the previous shutdown cost our economy over a billion dollars a day. We cannot afford to let this happen. To follow up on the requests made by our constituents, the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma, and numerous Washington businesses, we strongly believe that a federal mediator is needed to bring a swift resolution to these contract negotiations.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398496,U.S. House Approves Veterans Suicide Prevention Bill,2014-12-09,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler joined a strong bipartisan majority of the U.S. House of Representatives today in supporting the Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler joined a strong bipartisan majority of the U.S. House of Representatives today in supporting the Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act. This legislation that was approved by the House addresses shortcomings in the Veterans Health Administration’s mental health programs for suicide prevention, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and sexual trauma.  FACTS: ·         On average, 22 veterans commit suicide every day.  ·         Between 11-20% of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. “Far too many Southwest Washington veterans are suffering from mental health challenges stemming from their time in service.  Since it’s clear that they’re not receiving the help they desperately need, this bill is a first step to try and address this shortcoming. Every veteran we tragically lose to suicide is a veteran we have failed,” said Jaime. “This nation owes its veterans access to mental health care that really works, and ongoing support to help them thrive.”  The bill authorizes improvements to suicide prevention and mental health programs within the VA by: • Creating a three year pilot program to repay student loans for individuals who commit to practice psychiatric medicine with the VA. This provision is designed to address the shortage of mental health specialists within the VA. • Creating a pilot program for community oriented veteran peer support networks that can guide individuals transitioning from active duty back to civilian life. • Requiring the VA and Department of Defense to have an independent third party review their mental health care and suicide prevention programs to strengthen effectiveness and eliminate efforts that are failing to provide adequate intervention. • Requiring the VA to publish a website that provides veterans with a centralized, single source for information of all the VA’s mental health services.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_americans_deserve_an_explanation/,McMorris Rodgers: Americans Deserve an Explanation,2014-12-09,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) issued the following statement today after the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform held a hearing to examine the lack of transparency in the President's health care law. The hearing included testimony from Dr. Jonathan Gruber, an economist who has been recognized as one of the main architects of the President's health care law. ""Today's Oversight hearing further reinforced the failed implementation of the President's health care law. Obamacare architect Jonathan Gruber called the American voters 'stupid' and attributed the passage of Obamacare to 'a lack of government transparency.' People in Eastern Washington deserve an explanation – they deserve to know why they couldn't keep their health care plans under Obamacare. They deserve to know if Obamacare was deliberately drafted in a way that purposefully obscured its massive tax hikes from families in our community. And they deserve to know how many of their hard-earned tax dollars were being paid to Mr. Gruber and other Obamacare architects while they produced work that concealed the real impact of the health care law. I look forward to working with my colleagues to get the answers men and women in Eastern Washington deserve."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_fda_regulations_are_suffocating_eastern_washington39s_economy_and_innovation/,McMorris Rodgers: FDA Regulations Are Suffocating Eastern Washington's Economy and Innovation,2014-12-09,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement on the Food and Drug Administration’s recently announced expansive menu regulations: “The Food and Drug Administration has acted recklessly, mandating regulations without considering the impact they will have on Eastern Washington employees, business owners, and on our local economy. Adhering to these burdensome requirements will be extremely costly – in both time and resources – for local restaurants, delivery chains, and movie theaters, and they will stifle growth at grocery stores like Yokes and Rosauers. This proposal is one of the most expensive regulations ever – with expected costs being over $1.2 billion with 498,508 hours of paperwork.  ""As local supermarkets like Rosauers innovate and grow, every deli and salad bar offering – which are constantly changing – would have to endure costly tests to provide required labeling. And for pizzerias like Domino's, every potential toppings combination – well over 5 million options – would have to be calculated and publicized. This requirement is simply not workable. Additionally, these costs and responsibilities fall not on the FDA, but instead on the shoulders of independent franchise owners. The FDA’s action suffocates the innovative potential of the food industry, making it harder for local businesses to expand and grow from the bottom up. Finally, overreaching federal regulations are hitting America's middle class where it hurts the most: their wallets. ""These regulations go far beyond original legislative intent, epitomizing the federal government's habit of bureaucratic overreach. It is our responsibility to reverse the overbearing regulations of powerful government agencies, and represent the needs of American entrepreneurs. I will continue to advocate for the principles contained in H.R. 1249, the Common Sense Nutrition Disclosure Act of 2013, which include reasonable, commonsense nutritional reforms that don't hurt business owners and middle class families in Eastern Washington with unnecessary costs.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_legislation_helping_patients_in_eastern_washington_signed_into_law/,McMorris Rodgers: Legislation Helping Patients in Eastern Washington Signed Into Law,2014-12-08,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the President signed the bipartisan H.R. 4067, which provides for the extension of the enforcement instruction on supervision requirements for outpatient therapeutic services in critical access and small rural hospitals through 2014, into law last week. It will help Eastern Washington patients receive care in critical access and small rural hospitals.  “I’m pleased Republicans and Democrats are working together to advocate for people in rural communities like ours, because unworkable government mandates shouldn’t prevent patients from accessing outpatient therapeutic services. Now that bipartisan legislation guaranteeing access to care has been signed into law, patients across Eastern Washington will continue to have access to low-risk outpatient services. I’m proud to support this smart solution, which ensures patients continue to receive quality treatment without interruption.” Over 46 million Americans in rural communities depend on critical access and small rural hospitals, and this law will delay the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) mandate regarding “direct supervision” of outpatient services for the rest of the year. This CMS policy would require a supervising physician be physically present in the department when Medicare beneficiaries receive these services. It delays the enforcement of this policy for critical access and small rural hospitals with fewer than 100 beds.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-alpine-lakes-legislation-passes-house,Reichert Alpine Lakes Legislation Passes House,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation from U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) to expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area in Washington State and designate both the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic. The legislation was first introduced by Rep. Reichert in 2007, and he has since tirelessly championed the wilderness protection of Alpine Lakes in order to preserve this local gem for future generations. “I am thrilled to see the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Additions and Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers Protection Act pass the House today as part of a lands package included within the National Defense Authorization Act,” said Reichert. “Making this long-time goal a reality has been one of my top priorities since introducing this bill in 2007. I have worked tirelessly with my House and Senate colleagues as well as community members and local stakeholders – all who share my vision of preserving and protecting Alpine Lakes. The Alpine Lakes area is a perfect example of the natural beauty of our great state that also contributes to job creation and the success of local economies. This is the kind of legacy I want passed down to our children and grandchildren and with today’s House passage I truly believe that Alpine Lakes will forever be a part of their heritage.” The existing Alpine Lakes Wilderness was designated by Congress in 1976 and is one of the most visited wilderness areas in the country. Key elements of the Alpine Lakes legislation include: Providing the protection of the Wilderness Act of 1964 for the lower elevation lands, which will bring a richer diversity of ecosystems, including deeply forested valleys, into the wilderness area and increase its overall biodiversity. The addition of these 21,000 acres of public land into wilderness has the direct effect of protecting a broader array of outdoor recreational opportunities easily accessible for wilderness enthusiasts. Designating the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic, which would permanently protect the rivers’ free-flowing character, water quality and outstanding recreation, fisheries, wildlife, geological and ecological values. This designation provides for many recreational activities including unique backcountry hiking, kayaking, and white water rafting that is unheard of so close to a major urban center. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-1) is a co-sponsor of the House legislation and Senate companion legislation was introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray.  The Senate is expected to take up and pass the National Defense Authorization Act next week, including the Alpine Lakes legislation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-takes-select-revenue-subcommittee-chairmanship,Reichert Takes Select Revenue Subcommittee Chairmanship,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – After today’s Ways and Means Subcommittee Selection, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) released the following statement: “I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the Chairman of the Select Revenue Measures Subcommittee. Among the issues facing our nation, reforming our tax code is one of the most critical. Our businesses must be given the opportunities to grow, invest and hire without a tax code that hinders this ability. For our families, it effects their ability to put food on the table, to send their kids to college, to grow their businesses, and to balance their budgets. Our current tax code is outdated, largely incomprehensible, and overly burdensome. We have the ability to change that. I look forward to working with Chairman Ryan and the rest of my Ways and Means colleagues to ensure that tax reform becomes a reality. “I am also pleased to remain on the Trade Subcommittee. As a long-time advocate of expanding trade, I will continue to fight for new opportunities for our workers, farmers and businesses across the country. There are many opportunities on the horizon, and I am committed to ensuring that we bring the job-creating benefits home. Millions of jobs in the U.S., including hundreds of thousands in Washington State, depend on trade and I will continue to support those whose livelihood depend on trade.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398486,Jaime Herrera Beutlers Bipartisan Fishing Jobs Bill Passed by House; Heading to Senate,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler’s bipartisan fishing jobs bill, the Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific (REFI) Act, was passed today by a vote of 300-119 in the U.S. House of Representatives. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler’s bipartisan fishing jobs bill, the Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific (REFI) Act, was passed today by a vote of 300-119 in the U.S. House of Representatives. Upon passage of the bill, Jaime released the following statement: “I am very pleased to see the U.S. House move this important fishing jobs bill one step closer to becoming law. It's a great example of a bipartisan, commonsense solution to support 3,000 hard-working Americans' jobs— many of which are right here in Pacific County,” said Jaime.  “The REFI Act will grant fairer loan terms to fishermen who operate in the West Coast Groundfish Fishery, providing much-needed relief for these struggling businesses.  It's good for local economies by helping keep businesses afloat, and will increase the likelihood that fishermen are able to pay back the entirety of their loans, which is good for the American taxpayer.” For more information about the REFI Act, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-supports-able-act-%E2%80%93-helping-give-disabled-children-better-future,Reichert Supports ABLE Act Helping Give Disabled Children a Better Future,2014-12-03,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) and his House colleagues passed the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act which would require states to allow individuals with disabilities to set up tax free ABLE savings accounts. These accounts would be used for expenses incurred related to addressing the disability of the individual. Not only will they provide financial support, but they provide for the freedom to pursue independence and the best possible quality of life. “A parent never rests until they know their child is safe and cared for. For many parents of children with disabilities, this just isn’t possible under current law as I have seen in the case of my own godson Kyle. Individuals with disabilities too often lose critical assistance if they begin to work towards a better future for themselves by pursuing the independence of holding a job. The ABLE Act allows parents to save for their child’s future expenses, particularly if their child does not have the ability to support themselves. These are real people who are working hard to overcome real challenges and right now current law hinders rather than helps that. Now, with the ABLE Act, ABLE accounts will allow individuals, or their families, to pay into a tax-free account to help with the costs associated with overcoming a disability. This ranges from uncovered health care, education costs, housing needs, transportation costs, assistive technology, and personal support services. There is nothing more satisfying than ensuring the health and happiness of our children and I am proud today to have passed legislation that will secure a better a future for so many of America’s children.” As Chairman of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Resources Rep. Reichert was a leader in getting the ABLE Act marked up and passed out of the Ways and Means Committee on July 31, 2014.  This action allowed it to come before the full House for a vote.  The House passed the ABLE Act by a vote of 404 to 17. For more details on the ABLE Act, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398485,"Rep. Herrera Beutler, Sen. Cantwells Bipartisan Fishing Jobs Bill Heading For Full U.S. House Vote",2014-12-03,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"The bipartisan fishing jobs bill introduced by U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) – the Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific (REFI) Act – is expected to receive a vote by the U.S. House of Representatives this week. share: f t The bipartisan fishing jobs bill introduced by U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) – the Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific (REFI) Act –  is expected to receive a vote by the U.S. House of Representatives this week. It would then go to the U.S. Senate before year’s end. “With this positive development, I’m very hopeful that this bipartisan bill to protect more than 3,000 fishing jobs – many of which are in Pacific County – will make it into law,” said Jaime.  “The REFI Act to grant fairer loan terms to the West Coast Groundfish Fishery is one of those solutions that is neither Democrat nor Republican – it’s simply common sense.  We wouldn’t have gotten here without the work of Senator Cantwell as well as the support of many of my colleagues here in the U.S. House.  This fishery was declared an economic disaster in 2000 and has been struggling to recover ever since, so I’m pleased we’re close to passing this bill to help them stay afloat and continue their important role in our region’s economy.” “This is an important step forward to support Washington fishing jobs and our $30 billion maritime economy,” said Sen. Cantwell, a member of the Senate Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and Coast Guard. “Our bipartisan bill will level the playing field for West Coast groundfish fishermen, ensuring they have fair financing and flexibility to grow their businesses. I’m proud to work with Rep. Herrera Beutler on this common-sense measure to support job growth in Washington’s fishing economy. We’ll continue to work to pass this bill through both the House and Senate.” The bill has been combined into a larger package of legislation and will be considered before Congress this week as part of the 2015 National Defense Authorization Act. The REFI Act that would provide relief to fishermen off the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California who are struggling to sustain their businesses. The bill would adjust groundfishermens’ federal loan interest rates to match loan rates for other businesses, and would extend the length of these loans from 30 to 45 years. It would also reduce the cost recovery fees the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) collects from fishermen to pay down their loans. The West Coast groundfish fishery was declared an economic disaster in 2000, because of overcapitalization and overfishing. In 2003, Congress authorized buyback loans for the fishery to decrease fishing pressure and support a catch-share program in the fishery. These loans help eliminate overfishing by buying out the permits of those willing to leave the fleet. Congress was responding to a very real need, but has since learned that the loans were structured in an unsustainable manner. For more details on this legislation, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_empowering_individuals_across_eastern_washington/,McMorris Rodgers: Empowering Individuals Across Eastern Washington,2014-12-03,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) issued the following statement today after the House passed H.R. 647, the bipartisan Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, which allows individuals with disabilities to save for their futures through the creation of tax-free savings accounts. “Tonight the House spoke for millions of Americans with disabilities. We spoke to give them a better life; to provide them with greater opportunities; and to empower them to reach their full potential.  As the mom of a seven-year old son with Down syndrome, today my heart is full – because I know firsthand how federal policies can limit the opportunities for those with disabilities. The ABLE Act will change that.  “This overwhelmingly bipartisan bill will empower individuals across Eastern Washington – through tax-free savings accounts – to save for college, retirement, and other future expenses.  As part of America’s New Congress, we are here to advance real solutions.  Solutions that make people’s lives better.  Solutions that empowerall Americans – no matter where they come from or how much money they make or what challenges they face.  I applaud the many disability groups that have advocated, for so many years, to secure passage of legislation that is as commonsense as it is compassionate.  It will empower millions – like my son, Cole – with the opportunity to have a better life.  Andthat is why we are here.”    The ABLE Act encourages tax-free savings for qualified expenses such as education, housing and transportation by amending Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, working just like a 529 education savings plan. To view Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers’s Floor Statement, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_providing_certainty_for_eastern_washington_taxpayers_/,McMorris Rodgers: Providing Certainty for Eastern Washington Taxpayers,2014-12-03,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after the passage of H.R. 5771, the Tax Increase Prevention Act, which provides American taxpayers certainty and includes over 50 provisions of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to help small businesses and individuals succeed. “Looking ahead it is critical we pass comprehensive tax reform in order to provide both permanence and lasting certainty to Eastern Washington taxpayers. That being said, this legislation enables local small businesses to create new jobs, helps Eastern Washington manufacturers invest in new advancements, and creates new possibilities for moms and dads to get ahead – providing certainty for thousands of people across our state. “It helps our community expand hydropower generation, providing support for this important renewable energy, and it helps Washington state residents keep more of their hard-earned income – empowering Eastern Washington to reach new heights.” The Tax Increase Prevention Act extends, for one year, numerous tax relief provisions that expired at the end of calendar year 2013 or during 2014, preventing tax increases on millions of families and businesses. It includes provisions to extend through 2014 the research and development(R&D) tax credit, which helps Eastern Washington manufacturers expand and grow. Additionally it provides an extension of credit for nonbusiness energy property in Eastern Washington.   The Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimates that these provisions will reduce revenues by $44.7 billion over the ten-year budget window.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398484,"Jaime Herrera Beutler Praises Governors Chehalis Basin Work Group for Cooperative, Citizen-Driven Flood and Fish Plan",2014-11-25,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler Praises Governor’s Chehalis Basin Work Group for Cooperative, Citizen-Driven Flood and Fish Plan Jaime pledges to help move Work Group’s recommendation forward to protect citizens, communities, wildlife f t # e Washington, DC, November 25, 2014 Jaime Herrera Beutler today praised the Chehalis Basin Work Group for putting forth its formal recommendation to Governor Inslee for his endorsement. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler today praised the Chehalis Basin Work Group for putting forth its formal recommendation to Governor Inslee for his endorsement. She released the following statement regarding this important development:“This recommendation represents significant progress toward realizing a basin-wide flood solution and fish protection plan. The rain and storms that come each November serve as reminders of the disaster that hit our communities in 2007, and can strike again unless we advance a plan to protect this region from catastrophic flooding. Bringing together so many citizens and stakeholders behind this recommendation has been no small feat. I applaud Governor Inslee and the Chehalis Basin Work Group for their countless hours of work, focus, and dedication to this issue. There is no partisanship when it comes to protecting families and communities from flood damage or restoring a vibrant fishery in the Chehalis River basin. Since I was first elected as Southwest Washington’s federal representative, I’ve supported a cooperative, citizen-driven effort to protect the residents who call this region home, as well as fish habitat, interstate transportation and commerce. I remain actively ready to help with this proposal however I can as it moves forward.” Jaime has been at the forefront of finding a basin wide solution since her election to Congress. In 2012 she fought to block any flood plan that only protected the I-5 corridor, leaving communities more vulnerable to devastating floods. Click here to read about those efforts. Jaime also successfully inserted a legislative provision in the fiscal year 2015 U.S. House Transportation Appropriations bill directing U.S. Department of Transportation to provide technical assistance to the Chehalis Basin Work Group as they developed their recommendation. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398482,Jaime Herrera Beutler Questions U.S. Department of Interiors Decision to Advance Land Acquisition for Cowlitz Casino,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler sent a letter today to U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Sally Jewell questioning the Department’s notice to take into trust 152 acres in Clark County, Washington, for the Cowlitz Tribe. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler sent a letter today to U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Sally Jewell questioning the Department’s notice to take into trust 152 acres in Clark County, Washington, for the Cowlitz Tribe. The unexpected move - announced late last month - came while several Southwest Washington stakeholders that include Clark County, the City of Vancouver, and individual citizens were awaiting a court’s ruling on their legal challenge to the proposal.“Local citizens and stakeholders that I represent have gone through the proper channels to challenge this authority and deserve for that process to play out before the agency acts. I will continue to fight for their voices to be heard on their day in court,” said Jaime. “The Department’s premature decision could have significant impacts on our community depending on the court’s decision.” The full text of the letter is as follows, and the original can be found by clicking here: Secretary Jewell, The Department’s October 22 notice to take into trust 152 acres of land in Clark County, WA for the Cowlitz Tribe on or after January 21, 2015 has become a great source of concern and confusion in Southwest Washington. For this acquisition to take place while the court is still considering a case to determine whether the Department even has the authority to take this land into trust is not only a major shift in the Department policy, but also potentially a violation of federal law. In an effort to provide clarity to Southwest Washington and all affected parties I respectfully request that you answer the following questions: 1. Why would the Interior Department approve a Class III Gaming Compact for the Cowlitz Tribe and take this land into trust before the U.S. District Court has rendered its decision in this case? 2. Several of my constituents, including Clark County, the City of Vancouver, and individual citizens opposed to this casino, are following the appropriate legal process to challenge this trust land acquisition under the federal Administrative Procedures Act. The Department’s decision severely undermines those efforts. Why is the Department so willing to deny my constituents their day in court? 3. Historically, the Department has imposed a “self-stay” on taking land into trust during a challenge to one of its trust land decisions. In 2013, the Department amended its regulations to permit it to take land into trust at any time, after the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians v. Patchak. Despite this change to its long-standing self-stay policy, the Department has not engaged in any evaluation or study of the issues involved in taking land out of trust if the Department loses a trust land challenge. There are also provisions in federal law that require the government to provide “just compensation” if the United States is divested of title as a result of a judicial proceeding. Given the fact that casino-style gaming may be operating on this land—employing hundreds of people and serving thousands of patrons—why has the Department not thoroughly considered the legal and practical problems involved in reversing this land transfer if it loses this case? Thank you for your attention to this important matter. The people of Clark County and all of Southwest Washington are well aware of the potential consequences of the Department’s decision and will be eagerly awaiting your response. Sincerely, Jaime Herrera Beutler",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-presidents-executive-action-immigration,Reichert Statement on President's Executive Action on Immigration,2014-11-21,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) issued the following statement in response to the president's announcement that he would be taking executive action on immigration: “Last night, President Obama announced his plan for immigration to the nation. It is deeply concerning to me that the President has chosen to independently pursue a course of action on this issue without consultation with Congress.  I believe that our immigration system is broken and that we can find and must find a solution, but it is not up to the President to do it alone. Congress and the President must work together to find an effective solution, and that can only happen if we first address the problems with our border security and collaborate to help those pursuing the American dream come out of the shadows. This is what we were elected to do.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/pursuing_a_bold_and_firm_strategy_in_iran/,Pursuing a Bold and Firm Strategy in Iran,2014-11-21,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after passage of H. Res. 754, Condemning the Government of Iran for its gross human rights violations, and the upcoming P5+1 deadline on Iran’s nuclear program. “Today, the House condemned the inhumane actions of the Iranian government — including its violence against women and religious minorities.  As our relationship with Iran moves forward, we must hold them accountable for their actions toward their own citizens, as well as their treatment of existing international covenants.  As the deadline for a pivotal accord regarding Iran’s nuclear program approaches, I reaffirm my unwavering support for a deal that ensures a verifiable end to Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons. Our agreement must include a rigorous and immediate inspections regime, one designed to halt Iranian nuclear capabilities both now and in the future.  As Chair of the House Republican Conference, I will do everything I can to ensure that Iran no longer remains on the precipice of a nuclear state and that sanctions continue to be imposed on a regime that both harbors and finances terrorist organizations.     “As we continue to engage in these talks, it is imperative to understand the reality of the regime with which we are negotiating.  It is one that seeks power through the destruction of democracy and the obliteration of Israel.  It seeks power through the abominable human rights violations it continues to commit against its own people.  And it seeks power by propping up Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, prolonging the civil war in Syria and allowing ISIL to flourish as a result.  Iran has made its position unmistakably clear: it stands in opposition to transparency, respect for human rights, and global and regional security.  And so we must act.  We must do so not only with our words, but with our actions.  The Administration’s strategy must be bold and it must be firm.  It must include a meaningful consultation with Congress.  And it must be unequivocal in its opposition to a nuclear Iran.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205230014/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2385,"We Need a Permanent Solution, Not a Quick Fix",2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC–Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) issued the following statement tonight after President Obama’s announcement to act unilaterally on immigration reform. “Tonight the President articulated his plan to act unilaterally on one of the most significant issues facing America: the future of 11 million undocumented immigrants in our country.  His decision to act alone blatantly disregards the will of the American people: for their elected leaders to work together and enact effective, long-term solutions that make people’s lives better.  Tonight the President has done exactly the opposite.  He has revealed that his own desire for unilateral action trumps the democratic process upon which this country was founded.    “When it comes to fixing our broken immigration system, the American people want a permanent solution, not a quick fix.  They want the most effective solution, not the most expeditious one.  They want their elected leaders to come together, transcend partisan divisions, and advance real, common-sense solutions.  Make no mistake: I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle – and I will listen to the American people – to get immigration reform right.  I urge the President to join us in that effort.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205230215/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2386,"We Need a Permanent Solution, Not a Quick Fix",2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC–Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) issued the following statement tonight after President Obama’s announcement to act unilaterally on immigration reform. “Tonight the President articulated his plan to act unilaterally on one of the most significant issues facing America: the future of 11 million undocumented immigrants in our country.  His decision to act alone blatantly disregards the will of the American people: for their elected leaders to work together and enact effective, long-term solutions that make people’s lives better.  Tonight the President has done exactly the opposite.  He has revealed that his own desire for unilateral action trumps the democratic process upon which this country was founded.    “When it comes to fixing our broken immigration system, the American people want a permanent solution, not a quick fix.  They want the most effective solution, not the most expeditious one.  They want their elected leaders to come together, transcend partisan divisions, and advance real, common-sense solutions.  Make no mistake: I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle – and I will listen to the American people – to get immigration reform right.  I urge the President to join us in that effort.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-applauds-mountains-sound-committee-passage,Reichert Applauds Mountains to Sound Committee Passage,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert released the following statement after the House Natural Resources Committee passed the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area Act (H.R. 1785) out of committee: “I am very pleased that Chairman Hastings and the Natural Resources Committee unanimously passed my Mountains to Sound Greenway legislation this morning. Ensuring the proper recognition of both the achievements and beauty of our state, will always be a top priority for me. The Mountains to Sound Greenway is an important part of that, as it has played a role in nearly every major industry in the state – from agriculture to energy to technology. This legislation will highlight the heritage and legacy of the area while also protecting property rights. Clearing the committee is a critical step in the legislative process and I will continue working with my colleagues to make this law.” Background Twenty years of innovative conservation and collaborative solutions protect the natural heritage of the Greenway. This network of parks, forests, farms, and cities is part of a regional history and a legacy for future generations. The Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area will be a fitting recognition of this regional identity in the Pacific Northwest, and serve as a model of sustainability and cooperative solutions for the nation.  A National Heritage Area is a large, lived-in area designated by the United States Congress where natural, cultural, historic and recreational resources combine to form a landscape of national distinction. This designation provides a flexible strategy to encourage residents, government agencies, nonprofit groups and private partners to collaboratively plan and implement projects to preserve a landscape, without affecting private property rights.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205230418/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2384,McMorris Rodgers: Increasing Transparency within the EPA,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after the House passed legislation to create a more transparent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including H.R. 1422, the EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act of 2013, and H.R. 4012, the Secret Science Reform Act of 2014, of which she is an original co-sponsor. “Any and all EPA-produced guidelines and regulations impacting Eastern Washington jobs must be fair and balanced, and through this critical legislation we are holding the agency accountable for the proposals it introduces. By increasing transparency within the EPA, we are enabling more public participation from stakeholders and involved parties throughout Eastern Washington – because their thoughts and ideas should be paramount to the discussion regarding job creation at home. We must hold the EPA accountable, and must ensure regulations impacting our local economy be based on scientific fact.” The EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act of 2013 makes changes to the EPA’s Science Advisory Board (SAB) to increase public participation, increase the transparency for selecting advisors, and ensure the SAB remains focused on science. The Secret Science Reform Act of 2014 requires the EPA to base its regulations on data that is public, ending costly EPA rulemaking from happening behind closed doors and out of public view. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205230622/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2387,Pursuing a Bold and Firm Strategy in Iran,2014-11-19,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after passage of H. Res. 754, Condemning the Government of Iran for its gross human rights violations, and the upcoming P5+1 deadline on Iran’s nuclear program. “Today, the House condemned the inhumane actions of the Iranian government -- including its violence against women and religious minorities.  As our relationship with Iran moves forward, we must hold them accountable for their actions toward their own citizens, as well as their treatment of existing international covenants.  As the deadline for a pivotal accord regarding Iran’s nuclear program approaches, I reaffirm my unwavering support for a deal that ensures a verifiable end to Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons. Our agreement must include a rigorous and immediate inspections regime, one designed to halt Iranian nuclear capabilities both now and in the future.  As Chair of the House Republican Conference, I will do everything I can to ensure that Iran no longer remains on the precipice of a nuclear state and that sanctions continue to be imposed on a regime that both harbors and finances terrorist organizations.     “As we continue to engage in these talks, it is imperative to understand the reality of the regime with which we are negotiating.  It is one that seeks power through the destruction of democracy and the obliteration of Israel.  It seeks power through the abominable human rights violations it continues to commit against its own people.  And it seeks power by propping up Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, prolonging the civil war in Syria and allowing ISIL to flourish as a result.  Iran has made its position unmistakably clear: it stands in opposition to transparency, respect for human rights, and global and regional security.  And so we must act.  We must do so not only with our words, but with our actions.  The Administration’s strategy must be bold and it must be firm.  It must include a meaningful consultation with Congress.  And it must be unequivocal in its opposition to a nuclear Iran.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-nov-19th-mountains-sound-markup,Reichert Statement on Nov. 19th Mountains to Sound Markup,2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Tomorrow, the House Committee on Natural Resources will mark up U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert’s (WA-8) Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area Act (H.R. 1785). This is the first heritage designation markup in Congressman Doc Hasting’s (WA-4) four-year tenure as Chairman. “This markup is an important step in the process to making the Mountains to Sound Greenway a nationally recognized Heritage area and my hope is that the committee will favorably report it,” said Reichert. “While the Greenway already offers immense beauty and recreation opportunities to its surrounding communities, this legislation would help boost the economies of the area, allowing businesses to take advantage of the tourism and recreation industries that flourish in our state. I thank Chairman Hastings for taking up this important legislation and I am proud to champion the effort to highlight this Washington State gem.” To watch the committee mark up, a live feed will be available here at 10:00 am tomorrow.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398483,"Jaime Herrera Beutler Commits to Finding Fix for Community Grant Process that disqualified Vader, Toledo and Pe Ell for being Too Affluent; Invites U.S. Housing Chief to Visit Impacted Southwest Washington Communities",2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler today formally urged the U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to work with her in addressing the flawed survey methods that impacted certain Southwest Washington communities’ ability to qualify for development grants. share: f t Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler today formally urged the U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to work with her in addressing the flawed survey methods that impacted certain Southwest Washington communities’ ability to qualify for development grants.  In her letter, she also invited Secretary Julian Castro to visit Vader, Toledo, and Pe Ell to view firsthand some of the communities that were deemed “too affluent” to receive Community Development Block Grants. Jaime became aware of the issue via an early October meeting of Lewis County mayors.  Since then, she has worked with the Washington Department of Commerce, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Southwest Washington’s affected municipalities to find immediate relief for individual communities, as well as a long term solution.  In the weeks since Jaime engaged in this issue, Pe Ell was notified they will receive an $800,000 grant for street repairs and Toledo received a grant for a new water reservoir in September, based on an application submitted earlier in the year.  However, despite the fact that HUD acknowledged problems with the American Community Survey data that produced these skewed income results, the impacted communities remain in limbo over what will happen next. “I’m committed to finding a solution to a problem that is blocking a number of Southwest Washington towns from qualifying for these grants for which they most certainly should qualify.  As a member of the congressional committee that shapes the budget of HUD, I’ll explore every option for fixing this problem that impacts so many rural Lewis County residents,” said Jaime.  “Specifically, we need HUD to address the American Community Survey’s flawed data that is painting inaccurate portraits of the economic difficulties these communities face. In particular, it should have taken into account that these folks are in a county still struggling to overcome the second highest unemployment rate in the state. And while I’m pleased that some towns have been given short term relief, we need the agency to obtain more accurate income data without delay to ensure these same communities don’t fall between the cracks going forward.  “Anyone who has been to Vader, Toledo, and Pe Ell know that these resource-strapped communities are exactly why the Community Development Block Grant program exists. This is why I’ve offered to take HUD Secretary Castro to these towns – so he can personally see how flawed these survey results are, and why this problem must be fixed.” Click here for Letter to U.S. HUD Secretary Castro.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141205230823/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2383,McMorris Rodgers: Helping Eastern Washington Families,2014-11-17,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after the Senate passed S. 1086, the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2014, which is part of her package of bills to empower families at work and home. “Tonight the Senate sent the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2014 to the President’s desk, marking a significant victory for working families in Eastern Washington. This bill, with its commonsense reforms, reflects the dynamics of a changing, 21st-century workforce, and is yet another solution to help working families create better lives.  As we continue to empower moms and dads both at work and at home, we build more opportunities for families in the Pacific Northwest and in every corner of America.""  S. 1086 includes these conservative reforms that strengthen the Child Care Development Block Grant Program: ·Enhances parental choice by providing information about available care options from all providers, including faith-based and community-based providers, and allowing parents to choose the child care provider that best suits their family’s needs. · Strengthens safety in child care settings by requiring all providers  to comply with state health, safety, and fire standards and undergo annual inspections. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-keystone-xl-victory-american-workers,"Reichert on Keystone XL: ""A Victory for American Workers""",2014-11-14,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert released the following statement after voting yes to approve the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline: “Building the Keystone pipeline would be a victory for American workers and the American economy. It would create thousands of jobs, improve U.S. energy security and promote overall economic growth. It is a critical component to achieving an all-of-the-above energy policy that balances traditional and new energy sources. I hope the Senate will pass, and the President sign, this measure and allow us to finally get to work on this important project.” H.R. 5682 passed the House by a vote of 252 to 161.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-senate-mark-mountains-sound-greenway-national-heritage-area-act,Reichert Statement on Senate Mark Up of Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area Act,2014-11-13,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee marked up the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area Act, a companion piece of legislation to the House bill introduced by U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) which would help protect this historical, natural Washington State icon. Upon its passage out of the Senate committee, Reichert said, “This is another critical step to ensure that the Mountains to Sound Greenway is preserved for future generations. This corridor of land is rich both in beauty and opportunity and a heritage designation will continue to help the surrounding communities to thrive as thousands of tourists and recreationalists visit the area every year, from Washington and the entire country. I will continue to work hard to pass the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area Act in the House and I thank Senator Cantwell for introducing this legislation in the Senate and for working alongside me.” Background Twenty years of innovative conservation and collaborative solutions protect the natural heritage of the Greenway. This network of parks, forests, farms, and cities is part of a regional history and a legacy for future generations. The Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area will be a fitting recognition of this regional identity in the Pacific Northwest, and serve as a model of sustainability and cooperative solutions for the nation.  National Heritage Area is a large, lived-in area designated by the United States Congress where natural, cultural, historic and recreational resources combine to form a landscape of national distinction. This designation provides a flexible strategy to encourage residents, government agencies, nonprofit groups and private partners to collaboratively plan and implement projects to preserve a landscape, without affecting private property rights.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141112203356/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2382,Legislators Celebrate Bipartisan Victory for ALS Community,2014-11-12,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC –Today Representatives Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Erik Paulsen (R-MN), and Representative John Tierney (R-MA) and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) released the following statement regarding the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) decision to reconsider how speech generating devices (SGDs) are covered.In September, Representatives McMorris Rodgers, Tierney, and Paulsen and Senator Collins spearheaded a bipartisan letter to CMS requesting an explanation for policy changes affecting the coverage of these devices, which impacted millions of Americans living with neurological and degenerative disabilities.   “We are happy to see CMS acknowledge the fact that 21st Century technology is changing lives by enabling millions of Americans to communicate with their loved ones, their medical providers, and the rest of the outside world – because without this technology, their degenerative and crippling medical conditions made communication impossible. This decision marks a step in the right direction, and hopefully a step towards CMS embracing modern innovation in their coverage and payment decisions. “Still, there is much more work to be done – and we urge CMS to address the other issues we raised in our September letter, such as how CMS’s capped rental policy disproportionately affects patients who rely on speech generating devices.Together we will continue to advocate for this community, and we are hopeful CMS will continue to support these life-changing technologies.”   Last week CMS instructed Medicare contractors to rescind their coverage reminder and coding review, which was impacting Medicare patients’ ability to both “unlock” their SGDs and use their own money to add on functionalities to help lead productive lives. CMS’s recent decision to open a new coverage determination for SGDs will consider how the technology and use of augmentative and alternative communication devices by patients to meet their medical needs has changed significantly since the last coverage determination in 2001. Today, thanks to 21st century technology, patients can use speech devices for a wide range of purposes not previously possible, such as tele-health and email.Patients living with cerebral palsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Rett Syndrome, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, brain stem stroke, locked-in syndrome, and traumatic brain injury are affected by these changes.  In September Representatives McMorris Rodgers, Tierney, Paulsen and Senator Collins were joined by 200 legislators who signed onto a bipartisan letter to CMS and Administrator Marilyn Tavenner.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398475,"Jaime Herrera Beutler, Senator Patty Murray Help Secure Permit for New Columbia River Ferry in Wahkiakum County",2014-11-10,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler and Senator Patty Murray welcomed the recent announcement that Wahkiakum County will receive the necessary permit to finish the berth and channel improvements for its new Columbia River ferry. share: f t Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler and Senator Patty Murray welcomed the recent announcement that Wahkiakum County will receive the necessary permit to finish the berth and channel improvements for its new Columbia River ferry. Jaime teamed up with Senator Patty Murray when Wahkiakum County asked for help in obtaining the U.S. Army Corps permit as quickly as possible. This critical link for Southwest Washington residents runs at least 18 ferries a day, 365 days a year, and is one of the only alternate routes to U.S. Highway 30 and the Astoria bridge. Without this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit for dredging and construction, the Columbia River ferry route would be left unable to accommodate either the existing ferry or the new ferry scheduled for delivery in February–cutting off this important transportation route for Washington and Oregon residents. Wahkiakum County is scheduled to receive a new, larger ferry in February, 2015, requiring widening and deepening of the channel. Problems arose when the permit hit delays, putting in jeopardy the work that must be completed before the December dredging deadline. The Westport, Oregon landing alterations will not allow the old ferry to dock there. “This announcement comes without a moment to spare to keep the Columbia River ferry project on track,” said Jaime. “Southwest Washington communities rely on this ferry both for daily transportation and in case of emergency blockages on other routes. Fortunately, Senator Murray and I were able to work with Wahkiakum County and the U.S. Army Corps to help navigate this critical deadline and keep the project moving forward. I’m hopeful that our cooperation will allow its timely completion, and look forward to the new ferry providing better service to Southwest Washington residents without delay.” “For families and businesses across Southwest Washington, it’s absolutely critical that the Columbia River ferry project move forward on time,” said Senator Murray. “I’m pleased that Representative Herrera Beutler and I were able to help take the risk of a delay off the table, so that Southwest Washington residents can enjoy improved ferry service as soon as possible.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141108192949/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2381,McMorris Rodgers Calls for Explanation Behind Reduced Hours at the Spokane VA Emergency Department,2014-11-07,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"McMorris Rodgers Calls for Explanation Behind Reduced Hours at the Spokane VA Emergency Department WASHINGTON DC–Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) sent a letter today to Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald seeking an explanation for the recent reduction of hours at the Spokane VA Emergency Department. This week the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center announced starting December 1, 2014 the Emergency Department’s hours will go from 24/7 to 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and that the Spokane VA will no longer accept patient emergencies via ambulance. “The veterans in our community have made innumerable sacrifices to protect and defend our country, and we show these heroes our appreciation by providing them quality and compassionate treatment. That’s why I’m troubled by the proposed changes at the Spokane VA, which limit veterans’ access to care. We must take every action to keep our veterans in Eastern Washington safe, and I urge Secretary McDonald to provide clarification about how these decisions were made. The needs of our heroes must always come first – today and every day –and my commitment to our veterans remains steadfast.” The Congresswoman’s letter to Secretary McDonald is attached and pasted below. ### The Honorable Robert A. McDonald Secretary Department of Veterans Affairs 810 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20420 Dear Secretary McDonald: I would like to congratulate you on your recent confirmation—I know you are committed to caring for our nation’s veterans and I look forward with working with you. Earlier this week, the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Spokane, Washington announced changes in the operations of the Emergency Department. Specifically, starting December 1, 2014, the Emergency Department’s hours of operation will be curtailed from 24/7 to 8:00 am -6:00 pm, seven days per week. Additionally, the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center will not accept patient emergencies via ambulance.   Our veterans, our nation’s heroes, have made innumerable sacrifices to protect and defend our country. One way to demonstrate our appreciation is by providing them with quality and compassionate care and treatment. However, there is a crisis of confidence on the part of many veterans in Eastern Washington and across our nation who no longer feel that the VA is willing and able to provide them with timely care. As the Department of Veterans Affairs seeks to rebuild this trust, I have concerns with the proposed changes at the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center and am writing to seek further clarification about how this decision was made. Specifically: 1.      What actions prompted the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center to reduce the Emergency Department’s hours? 2.      What numbers or data did the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center use as justification for the reduction in the Emergency Department’s hours? 3.      Did the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center seek counsel from representatives within the VISN 20 network or from anyone in Washington, D.C. before making this decision? 4.      For families who take their veterans to the Emergency Department at the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center during the nighttime hours, will there be an ambulance available to transport the veterans to another community hospital? 5.      In the event that a veteran obtains emergency care in the community as a result of the reduction in the Emergency Department’s hours, will the Department of Veterans Affairs cover the cost of care? If so, what will be the process for the impacted veteran to recover the cost of care they received outside of the VA? As we prepare to recognize and honor Eastern Washington’s veterans on Tuesday-Veterans Day, I want to make certain that those who have served our country receive the care, support, and benefits that they were promised and that they have earned. I look forward to hearing your response. Sincerely, Cathy McMorris Rodgers Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-death-shaylee-chuckulnaskit,Reichert Statement on Death of Shaylee Chuckulnaskit,2014-11-01,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reichert Statement on Death of Shaylee Chuckulnaskit Oct 31, 2014 Issaquah, WA – Rep. Reichert issued the following statement in response to the news from Providence Regional Medical Center Everett tonight: ""It is with immense sadness that we learned of the passing of Shaylee Chuckulnaskit tonight. I continue to pray for Shaylee’s family, friends, and the entire Marysville community. Our children are precious and the heartbreak and devastation that their tragic death brings can only be softened by being surrounded with compassionate and caring people. May we all be those people for the Marysville community during this time as we keep them all in our prayers.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-questions-inslee-administrations-foster-care-oversight,Reichert Questions Inslee Administration's Foster Care Oversight,2014-10-27,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Issaquah, WA – Friday, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8), Chairman of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Resources, sent a letter to Washington State Governor Jay Inslee inquiring about the effectiveness of the administration’s oversight of the state foster care system. The letter is intended to provide oversight on the use of goals and quality measures by the administration designed to ensure that Washington’s foster youth are receiving the best possible care. The Human Resources Subcommittee oversees the nation’s foster care system. Reichert has served as its chair since the beginning of the 113th Congress and in that capacity has introduced and passed several pieces of legislation, including the Preventing Sex Trafficking and Improving Opportunities for Youth in Foster Care Act (H.R. 4058), whose key provisions were signed into law as part of P.L. 113-183 in September. The full text of Reichert’s letter to Governor Inslee is below. _______________ Governor Jay Inslee Office of the Governor PO Box 40002 Olympia, WA 98504-0002 Dear Governor Inslee, Protecting the young people of Washington has been one of my top goals throughout my career in public service, both as the Sheriff of King County and during my time in Congress. Because of this, and as the Chairman of the House committee with jurisdiction over the nation’s foster care system, I am concerned about recent changes your Administration made in how Washington’s foster care system sets goals and measures its performance.  I am writing to seek more information about these new goals and measurements in order to ensure that our State’s foster youth are receiving the best possible services . This past July, your administration released the Children’s Administration Strategic Metrics Plan through the Washington Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS).  This plan replaces the metrics and outcomes set forth in the Braam Settlement Agreement that expired in December 2013.  The Braam Settlement set tangible and ambitious goals that the foster care system was expected to achieve.  In contrast, your Administration’s plan appears to take a less comprehensive approach to monitoring and measuring the achievement of the foster care system, both by having fewer metrics as well as by setting lower expectations for system performance than was the case under the Braam Settlement. In order to better understand your Administration’s motivation in making these changes, I respectfully request that you answer the following questions: 1. Why did your Administration oppose the extension of the Braam Settlement? 2. Why does your Administration’s plan not include 19 of the 21 metrics required under the Braam Settlement?  Please provide your rationale for not including each of these 19 excluded metrics. 3. For the Braam Settlement metrics your plan chose to retain (i.e. caseloads per caseworker and monthly health and safety visits), why does your plan set lower expectations for system performance than under the Braam Settlement?  For example, the Braam Settlement expected foster children to receive a private, individual face-to-face health and safety visit at least once per month.  In contrast, your plan fails to require that such visits be private, individual or face-to-face. Why? 4. Why does your plan focus on simply gathering data, as opposed to holding the foster care system accountable for achieving specific outcomes designed to better protect children?  For example, under the Braam Settlement, 90 percent of caseworkers were expected to have a caseload of 18 cases or fewer; under your Administration’s plan, the foster care system simply is expected to report the number of CPS workers with more than 25 cases. 5. Do you believe that a foster care evaluation model should include metrics that are “one-and-done” (with the responsibility of the State to measure outcomes expiring if the metric has been achieved even once), or should performance always be measured against key benchmarks, so that the program is always held accountable for achieving important goals and evaluation is always a part of program management?  6. Why does your plan lack a timeframe for improvement by DSHS? I believe that using metrics and holding a system like foster care accountable for achieving key goals is an important safeguard for children, and something that should be incorporated into ongoing program operation.    I look forward to receiving your responses to the questions above, and to working with you to ensure that our State’s foster youth are properly protected so they can grow up and become thriving, successful members  of our community. Sincerely, Dave Reichert Chairman",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-marysville-pilchuck-high-school-shooting,Reichert Statement on Marysville-Pilchuck High School Shooting,2014-10-24,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reichert Statement on Marysville-Pilchuck High School Shooting Oct 24, 2014 Issaquah, WA – Rep. Reichert issued the following statement in response to today's events in Marysville: ""It is with great sadness that I learned of today’s tragedy in Marysville. My thoughts and prayers go out to the staff, students, and families of Marysville-Pilchuck High School. I pray for a quick recovery for the injured students, and I mourn with the rest of our community for those who lost their lives today.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398451,Jaime Herrera Beutler Asks For Help To Honor Veterans in Southwest Washington,2014-10-20,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler announced today that she will be sharing the stories of Southwest Washington’s veteran heroes on her website again this November. share: f t Washington, DC – Jaime Herrera Beutler announced today that she will be sharing the stories of Southwest Washington’s veteran heroes on her website again this November. If you are a resident who served in the military or you know someone who did, Jaime Herrera Beutler invites you to submit photos and stories from time in the service. Jaime will be posting these stories and photos on her Facebook page and at JHB.House.Gov throughout the month of November. “As a Member of Congress, it is my duty to honor our military veterans by making sure they have access to the resources and support they were promised. Sharing their heroic stories is just one way I hope to honor the sacrifices they made for our security and freedom.” Send your stories and photos: Email: share.vet.stories@gmail.com Mail: O.O Howard House 750 Anderson St. Ste, B Vancouver, WA 98661 Please be sure to include a short description of branch, title, and assignment for photos. Also, please make sure you have permission to share photos and stories before sending.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-ebola-crisis,Reichert Statement on Ebola Crisis,2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Issaquah, WA – Rep. Reichert issued the following statement in response to the ongoing situation concerning the Ebola virus: ""The ongoing Ebola crisis is one of great concern to us all. My thoughts are with the men and women taking up the task of caring for and working to provide treatment and supplies to those here at home as well as in widely-effected nations. This is not without a great deal of risk to their own health and livelihood, and I am impressed by the soldiers and healthcare workers involved in these efforts and their commitment to serving others. I continue to pray for all of those who have contracted the disease and hope for a complete and speedy recovery as well as effective treatment and containment of this virus. I stand ready with my colleagues to take whatever action is deemed most appropriate to end this outbreak abroad and prevent any further occurrences in the United States.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141024030350/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2377,McMorris Rodgers Statement on Ebola,2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) issued the following statement today after President Obama appointed Ron Klain to serve as the Administration’s Ebola response coordinator. “We must do everything possible to protect the American people from the growing and life-threatening risk of Ebola.  As more cases are diagnosed, especially in light of the recent reports, I expect the Administration and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to act swiftly and aggressively to not only combat this epidemic, but also gain the trust and confidence of the American people every step of the way.  A biosecurity threat of this nature requires a comprehensive strategy across multiple federal agencies – not just a single official.  “I urge the Administration to consider immediate travel restrictions – such as visa bans for non-US nationals in the West African countries most impacted – in addition to making sure the CDC and other agencies have the resources they need to train and equip health care professionals to fight this virulent disease.  I will continue to advance efforts to assist the Administration’s response to combat the Ebola outbreak – including the recent approval of $750 million to support Operation United Assistance, the Department of Defense-led mission.  This is a public health emergency – and it should be met with aggressive, coordinated, and immediate action.” Please visit this timeline of actions taken in the House to assist and assess the government's response to the Ebola outbreak.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398318,PHOTO: Jaime Herrera Beutler Visits Raymond for VA Mobile Medical Units First Trip to Southwest Washington,2014-10-15,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"On Tuesday, October 14, Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler was in Raymond as the VA’s mobile medical unit made its first trip to Southwest Washington to offer basic medical services to veterans. share: f t On Tuesday, October 14, Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler was in Raymond as the VA’s mobile medical unit made its first trip to Southwest Washington to offer basic medical services to veterans. The mobile medical unit’s visit is the first of what will be quarterly visits to Pacific County, and follows more than two years of effort by Jaime to bring this underutilized resource to her region to serve rural veterans.“On behalf of all the ex-service men and women who have waited so long to now see this facility become a reality, the American Legion Post 150 wants to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jaime for her effort in helping make it possible,” said veteran Kenneth Grimm, Adjutant, American Legion Post 150. “Pacific County and our local area have always been among the leaders in numbers of people in uniform. It is only fitting that this kind of a facility is finally available for their use. With the obscene price of gas we cannot be driving to Tacoma, Chehalis, or other out of town locations.” “This was a long time coming! The veterans I’ve spoken to were extremely relieved that they won’t have to travel more than one hundred miles for flu shots and other basic services,” said Jaime. “Now that the mobile medical unit will be here on a regular basis, more and more of our rural veterans will be able to access this convenient resource.” More details on Jaime’s efforts to bring the mobile medical unit to Southwest Washington are available by clicking here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/reichert-statement-domestic-violence-awareness-month-2014,Reichert Statement on Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2014,2014-10-08,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"""October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I have witnessed the effects of domestic violence time and time again. In 33 years of law enforcement it was sadly unavoidable and every time, domestic violence left behind devastation, broken families, and broken communities.  We will never be able to fully assess the damage done to men, women, and children by domestic violence, because it is not just physical, but affects every part of someone’s well-being.  To eradicate domestic violence, it will take a unified, nation-wide effort. Help is available, and I applaud all of those who have worked tirelessly for years to eradicate domestic violence. I also urge organizations and individuals to continue to provide support and assistance so that we can ensure victims will feel safe seeking help. I am committed to stamping out violence wherever it is found, and together, with an unwavering commitment to justice and helping others, we will keep our people safe.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-awards-angel-adoption-recognition-susan-chung,"Reichert Awards ""Angel in Adoption"" Recognition to Susan Chung",2014-10-07,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Issaquah, WA – Rep. Reichert presented Susan Chung, founder of the Korean Adoptee Family Foundation (KORAFF) with the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute’s (CCAI) “Angel in Adoption” award. Ms. Chung, a resident of Sammamish, has greatly given back to her community by helping families who have adopted Korean children understand their birth nation’s heritage and culture through the founding and running of KORAFF. KORAFF offers educational programs designed to encourage children to identify with their native cultures and serves as a valuable resource for both parents and children. Reichert stated, “I was honored to nominate Ms. Chung for this recognition. Her dedication to service and to these families is undeniable and she is a leading light in the 8th District. Her love of and passion for her work is evident in everything she does, and I know the benefits endowed by KORAFF programs reach far beyond individuals, and enrich entire communities.” Background CCAI was created in 2001 by the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Coalition on Adoption to raide Congressional and public awareness about the issue of adoption.  The Angels in Adoption program began in 1999 as a Congressional press conference to recognizing individuals who were outstanding in this area.  The program has since developed and is now a yearlong awareness campaign that culminates in an awards ceremony and Gala celebration in Washington, D.C.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-named-champion-children,Reichert Named Champion for Children,2014-10-02,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) was named a “Champion for Children” by the First Focus Campaign for Children. The award recognizes the top 100 members in Congress, both House and Senate, who consistently advocate for children. After the announcement, Reichert said, “I am honored to be named a ‘Champion for Children’ this year. I have always believed, whether it was as Sheriff of King County during my 33 years in law enforcement, or as a member of Congress and chairman of the Human Resources Subcommittee, that it is my job and my privilege to fight for the most vulnerable, whoever they may be.  All too often it is America’s kids. They are the ones who will shape and lead the future, and I want to ensure that they receive the best possible support from us to be able to make wise choices, receive a high-quality education, enter a thriving and economically viable workforce, and succeed as adults.  Whether a foster child, an only child, or one of 7 like myself, every child deserves equal opportunities.” Reichert is chairman of the Ways and Means Human Resources Subcommittee which oversees the country’s foster care system. He recently helped author H.R. 4980, a bill package that included critical reforms to help foster youth get into permanent homes and live happy, successful lives. It also included Reichert’s legislation to prevent the sex trafficking of youth in foster care. Additionally, Reichert is a founder and co-chair of the Children’s Health Care Caucus which works to promote policy that will result in better health outcomes for children across the nation. The Champion for Children Award recognizes the members who have best “demonstrated extraordinary initiative” to “improve the health, educational outcomes, and well-being of children”, according to First Focus. To learn more, visit their website here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-sex-trafficking-prevention-legislation-becomes-law,Reichert Sex Trafficking Prevention Legislation Becomes Law,2014-10-02,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – This week, the Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act (H.R. 4980) was signed into law by President Obama. This bipartisan legislation includes bills from Rep. Dave Reichert (WA-8) to prevent the sex trafficking of youth in foster care (H.R. 4058) and to ensure proper child support payments even when a parent lives abroad (H.R. 1896). Reichert said, “This legislation becoming law is a victory for American children.  We have committed to protecting foster kids and we are responsible for their safety and success, yet for too long we have not lived up to that that promise. In 33 years of law enforcement, I saw all too often the tragic circumstances these children could end up in if not properly taken care of.  Now, this new law will help protect children from the horrors of sex trafficking and give them opportunities to lead more normal and successful lives.” Real-life survivor and Rights4Girls Advocate ""T"" Ortiz Walker Pettigrew said, ""The signing of H.R. 4980 into law is more than a dream come true. As an advocate pushing for the public to recognize these issues, it is with great admiration that I thank those who helped make this law a reality. It will help so many young people, families, and social systems tp practically address the issue of domestic trafficking of this country's already vulnerable populations. Many aspects of this law, including engaging young people as respected members of the planning team for their own lives, will make a world of difference in shaping successful outcomes. Sharing my story on a federal level has not been easy, but watching those of power take action to make a difference in the lives of others made it all worth it."" “At Treehouse, we are whole-heartedly committed to transforming the lives of kids in foster care by helping them experience a real childhood, and providing them the support that all kids need to graduate from high school with a plan for their future. We were thrilled to join Congressman Reichert in support of this important legislation to empower youth to participate in the planning of their transition from foster care. We as a community have a special responsibility to kids in care, and by enabling them to define their own course and develop the self-determination and problem-solving skills needed to be self-sufficient young adults, we are helping to build their future prospects and avoid tragic outcomes like sex trafficking,” stated Janis Avery, Treehouse CEO.  “The Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act will help ensure children in foster care find the permanent, loving families they deserve and promote adoptions from foster care. The legislation addresses sex trafficking of youth in foster care and demonstrates that Congress has made it a priority to protect the many children at risk of being trafficked every year in the United States. The Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act will empower children and families by helping foster children lead normal lives, giving older foster youth more control over their future, and increasing the likelihood that children find permanent families rather than languishing in foster care,"" said First Focus Campaign for Children president Bruce Lesley.  Jim Theofelis, Founder and Executive Director of the Mockingbird Society said, “At The Mockingbird Society, we work with young people to change policies and perceptions that stand in the way of every child having a safe, stable home. This legislation is an important step towards ensuring our government policies treat young people involved in sex trafficking as survivors instead of criminals, providing the support necessary to keep them out or get them out of dangerous situations. I want to thank Congressman Reichert for his leadership on this issue and for always welcoming the input of our young people.” “We must do everything possible to ensure young people in the child welfare system who have also faced the horrors of trafficking are supported to heal and prepare for the future; we owe them that. Congressman Reichert’s leadership and support of this issue is critical,” said Dr. Melinda Giovengo, Executive Director of YouthCare, a Seattle-based organization providing essential services to runaway, homeless, and sexually exploited youth and young adults. “We see too many youth walk through our doors having had their childhoods stolen away. We know that youth on the run from care are incredibly vulnerable to sexual exploitation. We also know the future is still out ahead for each of them. We owe youth in young adults in this situation the opportunity to discover their potential and thrive in life. The improvements of HR 4980 will go a long way to keeping our community’s children safe and moving forward.” The new law will specifically act to prevent sex trafficking by: Requiring state child welfare agencies to identify, document, and determine appropriate services for children in foster care or who are otherwise involved in the child welfare system who are victims of child sex trafficking or at risk of becoming victims. Requiring state child welfare agencies to promote ""normalcy"" for youth in foster care allowing them to more easily participate in age appropriate social, scholastic and enrichment activities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394733,VA Announces Plans to Serve Southwest Washingtons Rural Veterans with Mobile Medical Unit beginning in October,2014-09-29,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"The VA has announced that it will send its Puget Sound mobile medical unit to Raymond to serve Southwest Washington’s rural veterans. share: f t The VA has announced that it will send its Puget Sound mobile medical unit to Raymond to serve Southwest Washington’s rural veterans. Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler has been working with the VA for more than two years to give veterans in Southwest Washington access to this resource that brings primary health care to rural areas. Some veterans in Southwest Washington must travel 150 miles roundtrip to obtain care from a VA facility.  The mobile medical unit program was designed to bridge this gap by bringing basic care such as checkups, flu shots, and prescription filling closer to remote and rural communities. The VA has announced that it will deploy its mobile medical unit to Raymond for one week every quarter, beginning with the following scheduled appearance next month.  According to VA personnel, walk up appointments will be available, and if there is not availability upon arrival, veterans will have the option to be scheduled for a later time or day. When: 10/14 – 9am-3pm 10/15 – 8am-3pm 10/16 – 8am-3pm 10/17 – 8am-Noon Where: American Legion 221 Duryea St Raymond, WA 98577 Services include: ·Primary health care appointments and walk-ups ·Physical Exams ·Flu shots and other immunizations ·Prescriptions ·Labs · Assistance in signing up for VA benefits “We have a responsibility to make sure every veteran has access to the quality health care they were promised,” said Jaime. “After more than two years of working to make sure the federal government better utilizes this taxpayer-funded resource, I am pleased that the VA will finally use its mobile medical unit to regularly serve Southwest Washington vets.  I hope veterans will come take advantage of this opportunity to get care closer to home. Currently, most veterans in the Pacific County area must travel more than 60 miles each way to get even basic care like flu shots or prescriptions from a VA facility. Given the need to fix the VA’s overall system for serving veterans, this is a good step.”   Background on Jaime’s efforts to bring the Mobile medical unit to Southwest Washington: · July, 2012: Jaime formally requested that the Puget Sound Mobile medical unit be deployed to Southwest Washington. Click here to read more.   · May, 2013: Jaime introduced a legislative provision to audit the VA’s Mobile medical unit program. Click here to read more. · May, 2014: As a result of Jaime’s legislative efforts, an audit is performed revealing gaps and identified recommendations for improvement. Click here to read more. · June, 2014: Jaime sends letter to VA Secretary General once again requesting the Puget Sound Mobile medical unit be deployed to Southwest Washington. Click here to read more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/house-members-introduce-outdoor-act,House Members Introduce OUTDOOR Act,2014-09-19,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Congressmen Dave Reichert (R-WA), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Greg Walden, (R-OR), Jared Polis (D-CO), Erik Paulsen (R-MN), and Mike Thompson, (D-CA), introduced thebipartisan U.S. Optimal Use of Trade to Develop Outerwear and Outdoor Recreation (OUTDOOR) Act (H.R. 5646) to reduce tariffs on recreational performance apparel.  The legislation would make products like jackets and pants more affordable for American consumers, encourage participation in outdoor activities, and help designers and retailers of performance apparel better compete in the global economy.  The Congressmen said, “The American Dream is built on the idea of exploration and economic success, and the OUTDOOR Act works to promote both of those concepts and make them a reality. From canoeing to mountain climbing, Americans have found ways to enjoy the outdoors in every season of the year, and outfitting them with innovative apparel is a major job-creating industry.  This legislation is a needed update to antiquated and unreasonably high tariffs set on recreational performance apparel, and more importantly it will help employers grow their businesses, remove a hidden tax on consumers, and continue to foster interest in America’s outdoor recreation.” “I commend the Representatives and Senators Cantwell and Ayotte for coming together in a bipartisan effort to support the outdoor recreation industry, a vital part of the economy at the state and national level,” said OIA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer.  “The U.S. OUTDOOR Act will lower costs for outdoor businesses, fuel innovation, attract more consumers to get outdoors using high-quality, affordable apparel and will create more jobs in the United States.  We look forward to the enactment of this important legislation.” BACKGROUND According to the Outdoor Industry Association, American consumers spend over $640 billion each year on outdoor recreation, in so doing supporting an industry that is directly and indirectly tied to 12 million American jobs. H.R. 5646 creates new Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) breakouts for both knit and woven recreational performance outerwear and changes tariff rates for these clothing items to duty-free, thereby eliminating the “hidden tax” on these goods. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398453,"Chronicle Guest Commentary: Time to Change How We Combat Fires, Fund Efforts",2014-09-19,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"It only takes a quick look in the newspaper to know that this year’s wildfire season has been bad—endangering communities, destroying hundreds of thousands of acres of forest, and costing millions of dollars to contain the destructive flames. share: f t It only takes a quick look in the newspaper to know that this year’s wildfire season has been bad—endangering communities, destroying hundreds of thousands of acres of forest, and costing millions of dollars to contain the destructive flames. Over the past 20 years the U.S. Forest Service has had to more than double the resources necessary to fight wildfires. Each year, it drains its wildfire fighting budget and must dip into funds supposed to be used for maintenance work in our national forests.   The result is disease and fire-prone forests, and an even greater risk of catastrophic wildfire.                                                             It’s time to change how we combat wildfires in the short term, and do more to prevent catastrophic fires in the future.  First, we need to alter the way we fund federal wildfire management so we have the necessary resources for these emergencies.  Second, it’s time to actively manage our national forests so that they’re healthy and fire-resilient, rather than diseased tinderboxes prone to disastrous wildfires that threaten private and state - managed lands and surrounding communities.    The Wildfire Disaster Funding Act of 2014 would give the federal government an immediate tool to more effectively fight wildfires. Currently, the very same wildfires that forced the evacuation of homes in North-Central Washington and displaced families to seek shelter at a local high school are not eligible for the same emergency funding as other natural disasters.  This bill changes that, allowing the U.S. Forest Service to access emergency resources without having to deplete the rest of its budget. My colleagues on the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and I have been working to build bipartisan support for this legislation. The Obama administration has voiced its support for this initiative and I’m optimistic that we can get this necessary change written into law. Fixing the way we fund wildfires is important, but it’s only a start. The constant increase in wildfires points to a larger root problem: the chronic mismanagement of our federal forests. Twenty years ago, the well-intended but deeply flawed Northwest Forest Plan was adopted, ushering in a “hands-off” forest management style.  The ensuing surge in wildfires in combination with other troubling symptoms — insect infestations, a decline in wildlife species, the rapid spread of disease — have spurred a growing number of scientists, wildlife biologists, conservation organizations and academics to sound the alarm that our federal forests are in trouble.  Year after year of overgrowth and fuel buildup continue to compound the problem, leading to the fires we’ve seen in recent summers that burn hotter and longer.  In turn, wildlife habitat is being destroyed and our clean water is being severely threatened.  We desperately need to remove fuel buildup and create openings throughout the forest landscape to help provide natural fire breaks. Forest openings are not only important for wildfire prevention, but they are also necessary to support healthy habitat for many species within the forest. A healthy forest has a mosaic of age classes, each habitat able to support different species.  Many species rely on the plant life that is found only in early forest conditions for foraging and survival. For example, Northwest deer and elk have been forced onto smaller swaths of private lands due to lack of foraging areas in our federal forests. The prey of the northern spotted owl also lived in these early forest habitats. As this habitat has disappeared, the spotted owl’s population has continued to decline at 3 percent each year.  While the consensus for active management is solidifying, we must avoid some of the riskier “active” approaches that could cause more harm.   In July, the head of the U.S. Forest Service stated in a congressional hearing that the agency would intentionally burn 65 million acres of national forests in the name of fire prevention.  This approach would be extremely costly and risky - experienced Forest Service veterans and firefighters warn that such large scale prescribed fires could easily burn out of control. What’s really needed is a sustainable, ecosystem-based, long-term rotating mosaic of age classes across the forest landscape that will provide a variety of habitats for a broad spectrum of wildlife and vegetation species.    This is imperative for overall forest health and it will also benefit the communities who live and breathe in the shadow of our forests.  Responsible timber harvests that meet the level determined as “sustainable” by scientists would be a win-win for the Forest Service and our communities.  The harvests would provide desperately-needed revenue for the Forest Service to carry out forest management, and would fund emergency services, schools and roads in the rural communities that have been devastated by twenty years of “hands off” federal forest policy.   The long term prevention of devastating wildfires hinges on better forest management.  Fortunately, forest management does not have to be a choice between harvesting every stick of timber, or putting a fence around the forest and walking away.  As someone who grew up in Southwest Washington and now represents this region in Congress, I’ll keep fighting for common sense solutions that give our forests and communities the best chance of a healthy future.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398454,U.S. House of Representatives Small Business Committee Discuss Washington State SHOP Exchange Failure,2014-09-19,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"On Thursday, September 18 the U.S. House Small Business committee hosted a hearing to discuss the implementation of the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) through the Affordable Care Act. share: f t On Thursday, September 18 the U.S. House Small Business committee hosted a hearing to discuss the implementation of the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) through the Affordable Care Act. Jaime Herrera Beutler pressed for answers about current and future of the exchange.   HEARING VIDEO OF JAIME HERRERA BEUTLER   Dr. Stark is a retired physician and an accomplished health care policy analyst from Washington state provided following insights.  “We have 3 major carriers in the individual market in the state of Washington and so far none of those have opted to participate in the SHOP and we don’t see them participating in 2015 and it’s doubtful in 2016, 2017.” “Association Health Plans are very popular in the State of WA … A lot of business owners are very fearful that those are going away and they will be left with either putting their employees in the private market or in the SHOP.” “Employers are going to be looking at doing away with coverage or putting employees in the individual exchange.” Democrat Small Business Committee Ranking Member Hahn stated, “It was disturbing, Dr. Stark, to hear that a lot insurance companies are not participating in the SHOP. And that is not good for consumers. We know that competition drives down costs…” Background: The SHOP Exchange is a program within the ACA that was intended to allow Small Businesses to provide health care for their employees at affordable rates.  FACT: ·         The Washington State SHOP Exchange has only one participating provider. ·         Only 2 counties in the state have plan options for small business owners. ·         Washington state’s SHOP waiver is set to expire next year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/house-members-introduce-teacher-tax-relief-act,House Members Introduce Teacher Tax Relief Act,2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Representatives Dave Reichert, Jim McDermott, Aaron Schock, Ron Kind, Pat Tiberi, and Bill Pascrell introduced the Teacher Tax Relief Act, H.R. 5504, to make permanent the deduction allowed for teachers who purchase classroom supplies out of pocket and expands the deduction to the include professional development expenses. “Too often teachers spend their own hard-earned money in order to provide their students with basic school supplies,” said the Representatives. “Our bill will alleviate some of the financial burden placed on today’s teachers while also making a significant investment in the education and the futures of America’s children. This bipartisan legislation will allow teachers to expand their knowledge, keep skills current, and equip themselves and their students for success.” Director of NEA Government Relations Mary Kusler said, “Educators nationwide who work to create successful learning environments for all of their students appreciate the leadership and support of the bipartisan sponsors of this bill.  In recent years, educators have spent $1.6 billion of their own money to ensure their students have basic supplies and instructional materials that help them meet their goals. Providing educators with a modest tax deduction that will now keep pace with inflation, is an important recognition of educators’ daily sacrifices on behalf of the students they serve.” BACKGROUND Every year educators across the country foot the bill for basic classroom supplies out of dedication to teaching and to their students.  In fact, the National School Supply and Equipment Association found that for the 2005-2006 school year educators spent out of their own pockets an average of $826 for supplies and $926 for instructional materials – for a total of $1,752. Additionally, teacher quality is critical to maximize student achievement, as highly qualified teachers will enable students to meet high standards. Continued professional development is one vital way that teachers keep their skills and knowledge current, and best equip themselves to prepare students for college and the challenges of the 21st Century global workplace. Expanding the tax deduction to cover qualified continuing education pursuits further assures the success of our teachers and our children.  The legislation is written to adjust for inflation so that the deduction keeps pace with the growing cost to teachers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918210353/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2372,RELEASE: McMorris Rodgers to Host A 'Conversation with Cathy' in Cheney,2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"SPOKANE, WA – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) will host a ‘Conversation with Cathy’ in Cheney next week. The Congresswoman looks forward to hearing from members of the community so she can bring their thoughts and ideas to Congress. She will give an update on the work she is doing to create better opportunities for Eastern Washington men and women. Friday, September 26, 2014 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM City of Cheney, Multi-Purpose Room 615 4th Street  Venue Entrance, Wren Pierson Building    Any further questions can be directed to the Spokane office at 509-353-2374   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-voting-yes-fight-isil-and-fund-government,Reichert Statement on Voting Yes to Fight ISIL and Fund the Government,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) issued the following statement after today's House votes on training Syrian rebels and keeping the government open: “Today, I voted with my House colleagues to give President Obama the authority to train and equip vetted Syrian rebels who are actively fighting against ISIL. This authorization comes with strict oversight and a requirement for consistent reporting on progress to ensure the Administration communicates properly with Congress and the American people. All of this is a step towards developing a real and complete strategy that will eliminate ISIL as a threat. “This amendment was part of the larger Continuing Resolution (CR) which the House passed this evening to continue funding the government through December 11, 2014. Included in that funding was language that extended the operating authority of the Export-Import Bank through the middle of next year. As a critical resource for many Washington companies, from our manufacturers to our wineries, this will give us time to come together and develop a long term plan that will ensure the continued success of Washington businesses, farmers and workers.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918210555/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2371,McMorris Rodgers: America Must Lead the Fight Against ISIL,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Remarks by Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) on the House floor prior to passage of Amendment #3 to H.J. Res. 124, which fulfills the President's request to train and equip vetted Syrian forces against the terrorist group ISIL: ""Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Chairman's amendment and stand ready to work with my colleagues and the President on a long term strategy to dismantle and destroy ISIL. Last week, the President's address to the country began to make the case that ISIL is an immediate threat to our allies in the Middle East, Europe, and ultimately our homeland. This is a radical and brutal force opposed to all who do no adhere to their narrow view of Islam and the world. ISIL has declared war on our way of life and the values on which our country was founded and has flourished for over 235 years. In fact, ISIL has made clear they will not be deterred until they see their flag flying over the White House.  ""When it comes to protecting the safety and security of Americans at home and abroad, Americans must lead. As we know, a speech is not a plan. An F-18 is not a strategy. As the Commander in Chief, we need the President to give us an honest assessment and an in-depth strategy to defend the country and our interests around the world. This amendment responds to the President's request to use title 10 authority to train and equip vetted Syrian opposition forces. General Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, called it a necessary but not sufficient step. Beyond the amendment and the President's limited request, the American people need to see a plan clearly articulated with a strategy to dismantle and destroy ISIL. ""When we look around the world today, we see instability and numerous threats. The spread of radical Islam throughout the globe is more pervasive Iran continues to move toward a nuclear weapon. Russia continues to take aggressive action toward the Baltic states. I support this amendment because America must lead. As we've seen, when America sits idle on the sidelines, there's a leadership void which is filled by bad actors. I urge my colleagues to join us in taking this action. I yield back the balance of my time."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918210757/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2369,McMorris Rodgers: Executive Action is Unlawful and Unacceptable,2014-09-16,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement in response to a new report published by the independent Government Accountability Office (GAO). The report finds the Obama Administration has knowingly disregarded bipartisan policy that prevented taxpayer funded elective abortion. “The American people deserve an Administration committed to carrying out the law – not usurping it. Disappointingly, today’s report marks one more example of the President’s disregard for the law and for hard-earned taxpayer dollars. For decades, both Republicans and Democrats have believed that taxpayer dollars should not fund elective abortion. Yet this report highlights Obamacare’s unlawful dismissal of these bipartisan measures.  “We must come together to protect hardworking taxpayers across the country, which is why I was proud to support bipartisan legislation that corrects this abuse – and I am hopeful the Senate will take up this important legislation. We must put an end to this unacceptable executive overreach.” The GAO report, released this morning, finds that American taxpayer dollars are funding abortion under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Earlier this year, Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers voted in favor of H.R. 7, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act, which protects taxpayer dollars from funding elective abortion. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918210959/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2370,McMorris Rodgers: A Victory for Eastern Washington Families,2014-09-15,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after the House passed S. 1086, the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2014. “Today the House acted to protect and empower working families all across this country.  As the mom of three young children, and the representative of thousands of working parents in Eastern Washington, I know how important it is to find safe and reliable child care services for our kids.  And right now – when too many moms and dads are struggling to pay their bills and make ends meet – American families need security.  They need options.  And they need solutions.   This bipartisan legislation improves and modernizes our child care services while giving parents the peace of mind they need when they say goodbye to their kids every morning.  It strengthens the safety of existing child care facilities.  And it makes life better for hardworking parents.  As this bill heads to the President’s desk, we celebrate a huge victory for families in every corner of this country.”  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918211201/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2364,Legislators Call For Answers On Behalf of ALS Community,2014-09-12,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today Representatives Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), John Tierney (D-MA), and Erik Paulsen (R-MN), and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) sent a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requesting an explanation for recent policy changes impacting millions of Americans living with neurological and degenerative disabilities. They released the following statement on these changes, which limit patient access to speech generating devices (SGDs) . “Americans rely on these innovative technologies as their only means to continue communicating with family, friends, and the outside world, but CMS’s recent actions are now limiting their ability to benefit from these tools that help lead to independent, productive lives. After hearing from numerous individuals living with ALS and other degenerative disabilities, we urge CMS to explain its shortsighted policy decisions. Together we stand with the millions of Americans living with degenerative disabilities who are being impacted. We must empower men and women with the opportunity to utilize 21st century technologies that can have a tremendous impact on their quality of life.” These changes by CMS impact patient access to speech generating devices, including eye tracking technology, which is often the only option for those with advanced degenerative conditions. Patients living with cerebral palsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Rett Syndrome, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, brain stem stroke, locked-in syndrome, and traumatic brain injury are affected by these changes.  This letter seeks an explanation from CMS for these revisions, which include the prevention of unlocking of SGD devices -- which expand their functionality -- when Medicare is not being asked to cover or pay for those expanded functionalities.   Representatives McMorris Rodgers, Tierney, Paulsen and Senator Collins were joined by 200 legislators who signed onto this bipartisan letter to CMS and Administrator Marilyn Tavenner.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-911-anniversary-we-will-always-remember,Reichert Statement on 9/11 Anniversary: We Will Always Remember,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) issued the following statement on the anniversary of the 9/11 and Benghazi terrorist attacks: “Today is a day of tragedy in our nation’s history. We remember not only the horrific and devastating September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a now infamous field in Pennsylvania, but also the unthinkable actions that took the lives of U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens, and Americans Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, and Glen Doherty in Benghazi, Libya in 2012. This day serves as a reminder of those we have lost, innocent men and women who died as heroes and the brave men and women who make daily sacrifices to protect America from further harm. It is a reminder to treasure our loved ones and the freedoms we hold dear. We have seen a new world since September 11, 2001, and the attack on our embassy in Benghazi two years ago was a stark reminder of that changed landscape. The Middle East remains in turmoil and our national security is still heightened. As we meet new threats and new challenges, we must continue to defend the principles and the ideals of this great nation. I stand with each and every one of you today, shoulder to shoulder, dedicated to keeping America safe and working to keep it strong. We will always remember.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-response-presidents-speech-isil,Reichert Statement in Response to President's Speech on ISIL,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) issued the following statement in response to the President's speech last night: “Last night we heard President Obama’s strategy to ‘degrade and ultimately defeat’ the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). His strategy incorporates a broad, multi-national coalition, which I applaud. Every citizen of the world should be concerned about the threat posed by ISIL. We have seen cases of men and women from all over the globe leave home to join their ranks. This radicalism cannot be tolerated; the president is right: we cannot allow terrorists safe havens. The objectives laid out by President Obama are a start, but we must also be prepared to continually assess and evaluate a clear strategy to eliminate the extremism taught and acted out by ISIL. I will work diligently with my colleagues to ensure that the President's words lead to action and that an open dialogue continues on how best to defeat this enemy. It is time for America and this Administration to lead and to take decisive, powerful action to eliminate the threat of ISIL.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918211403/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2366,McMorris Rodgers: We Will Never Forget,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today to mark the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. “It is with heavy hearts that we reflect on America’s darkest day. We remember the firefighters who ran in to those burning buildings instead of away from them. We remember the faces of those searching for those they loved. We remember the flames and the debris and the fear. We will never forget the fear. But let us also reflect on the selflessness of strangers; the courage of our first-responders; and the prayers that were echoed in silence around the world. From great destruction came unwavering resolve. Today we remember what makes us all proud to be Americans: an unshakable spirit that can endure even the greatest and darkest of evils.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918211604/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2365,McMorris Rodgers: Advocating for Eastern Washington Patients,2014-09-10,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) applauded the passage of H.R. 4067, which provides for the extension of the enforcement instruction on supervision requirements for outpatient therapeutic services in critical access and small rural hospitals through 2014. The legislation helps Eastern Washington patients receive care in critical access and small rural hospitals.  “Growing up in Eastern Washington, I know firsthand the challenges rural communities face when it comes to accessing health care.  Right now, it’s too hard for those in rural areas to receive quality health care because too many government mandates stand in the way. This legislationaddresses one of those unnecessarily burdensome mandates.  It ensures that those in rural hospitals have full access to outpatient therapeutic services.  The patients who rely on Eastern Washington’s rural hospitals for life-saving treatments and procedures must be protected – with fewer regulations and smarter legislation.”       Over 46 million Americans in rural communities depend on critical access and small rural hospitals, and this legislation delays the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) mandate regarding “direct supervision” of outpatient services for the rest of the year. This CMS policy would require a supervising physician be physically present in the department when Medicare beneficiaries receive these services. H.R. 4067 delays the enforcement of this policyfor critical access and small rural hospitals with fewer than 100 beds.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-remembers-ranger-margaret-anderson,Reichert Remembers Ranger Margaret Anderson,2014-09-05,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Issaquah, WA – Today, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) spoke at the renaming of the Eatonville Post Office in honor of Park Ranger Margaret Anderson.  The post office was renamed after legislation Reichert introduced, H.R. 1036, was signed into law earlier this year.  Park Ranger Anderson’s heroic actions were remembered during a ceremony that included the unveiling of a plaque officially designating the Eatonville Post Office as a memorial in her honor. Upon this recognition, Reichert said, “I have lost friends and partners in the line of duty. I know just how difficult that loss is. I know that you never forget. Eatonville will never forget Margaret Anderson.  Her family will never forget.  With the renaming of Eatonville Post Office, we erect a permanent memorial in her honor, giving this community a visible, tangible reminder of her heroic actions and all of those who have committed their lives to serving others, and this community in particular.  It was an honor to be able to introduce the legislation that made this possible, and it was an honor to be here today to celebrate Margaret Anderson’s life and memory.” Ranger Anderson was killed in the line of duty on January 1, 2012 while establishing a roadblock within Mt. Rainier National Park.  Her actions prevented an armed suspect from venturing further into the park and endangering more lives. She made the ultimate sacrifice protecting others.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140905013013/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2361,McMorris Rodgers Announces Veterans and Military Outreach Staff Member,2014-09-04,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement announcing retired Air Force service member and longtime veterans advocate John Davis as her new Veterans and Military Outreach Liaison.  “I am both humbled and honored to welcome John Davis to my team. Over the past four decades, John has dedicated his life to serving our country, our military, and our veterans, and his compassion for the Eastern Washington veteran community has impacted countless lives. “Simply put, in his new role John is working every day to help veterans in our community – be it by assisting them with their claims and records, or providing them support and information about how to navigate the VA system. He joins my office in furthering our commitment to the men and women who have served our nation so dutifully. I am inspired by the work John has done to assist homeless veterans, and am confident this new role will leave a lasting impact on the veterans and service members in Eastern Washington.” John enlisted in the Air Force in 1968, and has served in the Philippines, Okinawa, Korea, Japan, Thailand, Alaska, Antarctica, New Mexico, and at Fairchild Air Force Base, in the 92 Munitions Maintenance Squadron. While assigned to Fairchild AFB, John graduated from Spokane Falls Community College and Eastern Washington University, where he studied counseling and sciences. He also attended Gonzaga University prior to earning his commission. In 2000, John accepted a job at the Spokane VAMC as the Health Care for Homeless Veterans Coordinator, and under his leadership the program grew from housing ten veterans in Spokane to one that housed more than 250 veterans and their family members. In 2010 he was awarded the “Secretary's Award of Outstanding Achievement"" in Service to Homeless Veterans by a VA Organization and last year was named by the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans as the Outstanding Department of Veterans Affairs Staff Member. John lives in Stevens County with his wife of 43 years, Cho Sun Ae.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140905013215/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2357,September 2014 Mobile Office Hours,2014-09-01,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"SPOKANE, WA—Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers’ staff members are hosting monthly mobile office hours throughout Eastern Washington. Anyone who needs assistance with a federal agency or would like to voice an opinion on federal issues is encouraged to come by—no appointment necessary. McMorris Rodgers staff members will be at the following locations in September 2014: Tuesday, September 5 Colfax: Whitman County Courthouse, 400 North Main St, 9-11 AM Clarkston: SEWEDA Office, 845 Port Way, 2-4 PM Wednesday, September 6 Pomeroy: Garfield County Courthouse, 789 Main St, 9-11 AM Dayton: Port of Columbia County Office, 1 Port Way, 2-4 PM Wednesday, September 9 Davenport: Lincoln County Court House, Chambers Room, Logan St, 2-4 PM *Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers’ Veterans’ Services staff member, John Davis, will be assisting veterans during the Mobile Office Hours in Davenport.* Any further questions can be directed to the Spokane office at 509-353-2374",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-urges-army-consider-jblm-rif-impact,Reichert Urges Army to Consider JBLM RIF Impact,2014-08-25,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Issaquah, WA – On August 22nd, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) sent a letter to Colonel Robert Wittig, U.S. Army Environmental Command, to urge him to consider the impact that a Reduction in Force (RIF) might have on Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). A RIF is planned for JBLM no later than January 15, 2015 which could result in income losses for the communities and businesses that JBLM troops support. In the letter Reichert states, “As the representative of Washington’s Eighth Congressional District, I ask that you look at all of the facts and make a decision that is in the best interest of the security of our nation, the operation of JBLM, and the surrounding local communities. Thank you for your fair and thorough consideration of the SPEA for the 2020 Force Structure Realignment. I have faith that the Army will come to the right decision while keeping the security of our nation at the forefront.” The full text of the letter is below.   August 22, 2014   Col. Robert Wittig U.S. Army Environmental Command ATTN: SPEA Public Comments 2450 Connell Road (Building 2264) Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-7664 Dear Col. Wittig,   Thank you for serving and all who serve this country. I certainly understand your commitment to doing what is best for our great nation and the men and women who serve.  Therefore, as the Army continues to deliberate the SPEA (Supplemental Programmatic Environmental Assessment) review for the Army’s 2020 Force Structure Realignment, I respectfully wish to reemphasize the potential impacts to the community that a Reduction in Force (RIF) might have on Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). With the Department of the Army planning to conduct a RIF at JBLM no later than January 15, 2015, which may result in the involuntary separation of 102 permanent employees, it is important to review all of the facts before making a decision that will have an impact on the surrounding communities of JBLM.  The local community has forged a bond with the over 30,000 soldiers living outside of the base and the local economy has become dependent on this bond. Throughout the public comment period, I have heard concerns from community leaders. According to the Pierce County Council and multiple businesses in the area, a reduction of 16,000 troops at JBLM would result in a total income loss of over $1 billion. Other concerns include the Department of the Army’s underestimated impacts on local revenue, unemployment rates, and housing market in the area.  As the representative of Washington’s Eighth Congressional District, I ask that you look at all of the facts and make a decision that is in the best interest of the security of our nation, the operation of JBLM, and the surrounding local communities. Thank you for your fair and thorough consideration of the SPEA for the 2020 Force Structure Realignment.  I have faith that the Army will come to the right decision while keeping the security of our nation at the forefront. Please do not hesitate to contact Zack Guill in my district office at (425) 677-7414 if you need additional information.   Sincerely,      Dave Reichert                 Member of Congress   CC: The Honorable John McHugh, Secretary U.S. Army",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140822003322/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2356,McMorris Rodgers to Host 'Conversations with Cathy' This Week,2014-08-19,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"SPOKANE, WA – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) will host four ‘Conversation with Cathy’ events throughout Eastern Washington this week. The Congresswoman looks forward to hearing from the community so she can bring their thoughts and ideas to Congress. She will give an update on the work she is doing to create better opportunities for Eastern Washington men and women. Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers will host ‘Conversations with Cathy’ events at the following locations this week: Tuesday, August 19, 2014 Walla Walla: Conversation with Cathy for Veterans 2:00 – 3:00 PM City of College Place Council Chambers, 625 South College Avenue Wednesday, August 20, 2014 Dayton: Conversation with Cathy 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Dayton Library Delaney Room, 111 South 3rd Street Wednesday, August 20, 2014 Clarkston: Conversation with Cathy 3:00 – 4:00 PM Clarkston Campus Auditorium, 1470 Bridge Street Friday, August 22, 2014 Colfax: Conversation with Cathy 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Whitman County Public Service Building Auditorium, 310 North Main Street Any further questions can be directed to the Spokane office at 509-353-2374 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-supports-governors-appeal-federal-wildfire-assistance,Reichert Supports Governor's Appeal for Federal Wildfire Assistance,2014-08-13,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Issaquah, WA – After learning that the Washington State request for Individual Assistance, as well as Public Assistance for Chelan County, through a Major Disaster Declaration was denied, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) issued the following statement:   “I fully support Governor Inslee’s decision to appeal this ruling from the federal government. Not only is this one of the worst wildfire seasons Washington has seen in many, many years, but we have seen individuals and families lose absolutely everything.  The state is doing what it can to help provide assistance but they can’t do it alone.  I am working with my colleagues, FEMA, and the Governor’s office to get the federal help we need to ensure people can access basic necessities and provide for themselves and their families as they rebuild their lives. I urge the federal government to address these needs and seriously consider the Governor’s appeal.”   Wildfires in Washington State have destroyed more than 300 homes across four different counties and have seriously affected local economies, particularly as this comes in the middle of the busiest tourism season for Central Washington, in addition to the destruction of private property.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140808003805/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2354,McMorris Rodgers: Emergency Funding for Our Friend and Ally,2014-08-07,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – House Republican Conference Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) issued the following statement today after the House voted to allocate an additional $225 million for Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system. “There are no actions more atrocious and contemptible than intentional attacks against civilian populations — which is the hallmark of the Hamas terrorist gang. However, their barbarism is matched by Israeli ingenuity with Iron Dome, the Israel rocket interceptor. It has kept Hamas from terrorizing the brave Israeli civilian population. Hamas rockets aimed at Israel have been successfully destroyed by Iron Dome. Violence and terror are met by engineering and civilization.   “To protect Israel – our greatest friend and ally in the Middle East – we must fund this vital missile defense system.  Today the House has acted once again to stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel and provide critical emergency funding for the Iron Dome and protect the people of Israel as they defend themselves and their country.  In the name of freedom and democracy, we must act.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140808004007/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2355,McMorris Rodgers: Emergency Funding for Our Friend and Ally,2014-08-07,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – House Republican Conference Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) issued the following statement today after the House voted to allocate an additional $225 million for Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system. “There are no actions more atrocious and contemptible than intentional attacks against civilian populations — which is the hallmark of the Hamas terrorist gang. However, their barbarism is matched by Israeli ingenuity with Iron Dome, the Israel rocket interceptor. It has kept Hamas from terrorizing the brave Israeli civilian population. Hamas rockets aimed at Israel have been successfully destroyed by Iron Dome. Violence and terror are met by engineering and civilization.   “To protect Israel – our greatest friend and ally in the Middle East – we must fund this vital missile defense system.  Today the House has acted once again to stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel and provide critical emergency funding for the Iron Dome and protect the people of Israel as they defend themselves and their country.  In the name of freedom and democracy, we must act.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-tours-fire-affected-areas,Reichert Tours Fire-Affected Areas,2014-08-05,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Issaquah, WA - Today, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) visited fire-affected areas in Central Washington including the Red Cross operation at Chelan High School as well as Entiat, Leavenworth, and Ellensburg. “After meeting so many chiefs and command crews and Red Cross workers today, I am prouder than ever of the work being done by our first responders and volunteers,” said Reichert.  “They have done so much and continue to do so much to ensure that our communities are safe and, if all else fails, that people are removed from harm’s way and provided for.  I cannot remember a fire season quite like this one; so many have lost homes or property and watched years of work go up in flames.  I hope and pray that the remaining fires, such as those threatening Ellensburg and Vantage, are quickly contained, and I will continue to fight in Congress for our fire fighters to have the proper tools and resources to combat this natural enemy.” Reichert is chair of the bipartisan Congressional Fire Services Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=390116,"Jaime Herrera Beutler, other Members of Congress Press USDA to Ensure Wheat Exports Can Continue",2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler and several other Northwest and Midwest Members of Congress yesterday urged U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to resolve the stoppage in grain inspections at the Port of Vancouver. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler and several other Northwest and Midwest Members of Congress yesterday urged U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to resolve the stoppage in grain inspections at the Port of Vancouver. The letter was also signed by Representatives Doc Hastings (R-WA), Dave Reichert (R-WA), Greg Walden (R-OR), Mike Simpson (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jackie Walorski (R-IN), and Raúl Labrador (R-ID).  The text of their letter is below, and the original July 31 letter can be found by clicking here.   Dear Secretary Vilsack: We write to express our concern with the continued stoppages to official grain inspections at the Port of Vancouver in Washington State. As you are aware, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) delegated certain critical responsibilities of the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). However, in recent weeks, it has come to our attention that WSDA has been either unable or unwilling to perform its official grain inspection duties on a consistent or reliable basis. This is unacceptable. Wheat growers play a significant role throughout the Midwestern and Northwestern United States. In the latter region, approximately 80 percent of wheat is exported abroad, with a significant portion going to Asia via export facilities in the Pacific Northwest. Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan pay a premium for wheat exports through the Northwest because they know that not only is it a high-quality wheat, but through the years, the region has provided timely and reliable delivery. Our trading partners, as well as farmers, grain handlers and exporters from the Northwest and Midwest, depend upon accurate, timely, and cost-effective delivery of mandated official grain inspection and weighing services administered by FGIS and its designated and delegated agencies. As such, it is imperative that we continue to assure all of our trading partners that the Port of Vancouver will continue to export a reliable supply of high-quality wheat, especially with wheat harvest already underway. Understanding the gravity of this situation, we urge FGIS to immediately take action to meet its statutory obligation to inspect wheat exports. It is incumbent on USDA and FGIS to ensure the inspections are completed and to prevent similar disruptions in the future.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140808004210/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2353,McMorris Rodgers: Answering Crisis with Leadership,2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after acting to address the border crisis.   “We face a grave humanitarian and national security crisis at the border – and Americans in Eastern Washington and across this country are asking for leadership. They’re asking for solutions.  And that’s what our legislation does: it provides a serious solution to a serious problem. Our plan reallocates $694 million to secure the border, provide emergency care, and prevent future arrivals.  This will ensure that children are reunited with families in their home countries. Our solution addresses the problem humanely, effectively, and expeditiously. The crisis at the border demands our attention. It demands our action. And it demands our immediate and unwavering leadership.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140808004413/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2351,McMorris Rodgers: Helping Eastern Washington Students Reach Their Full Potential,2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after introducing H.R. 5303, the 21st Century Classroom Innovation Act, which encourages the use of blended learning in the classroom. “In the past few years we’ve seen an increase in the number of classrooms integrating technology – and these personalized learning tools are leading to tremendous academic performance.  As the mom of three, I see firsthand how technology in the classroom transforms education.  Now we’re taking this success to the next level – we’re making it possible for students in communities in Eastern Washington and across the country to experience blended learning. By fully incorporating technology into teachers’ lesson plans, elementary and secondary education possibilities are limitless – and academic results will improve, opening new doors for students.  By arming students and teachers with education-focused technology, we are helping our nation’s students succeed in the 21st century and reach their full potential.” By allowing state education agencies to recognize blended learning pilot programs at the local level, fully integrated technology instruction will better support personalized instruction for all individual students. Participating schools will demonstrate improved students’ assessed outcomes by using actionable data from students’ work.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140808004719/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2352,McMorris Rodgers: Reliable Grain Inspection Critical to Eastern Washington,2014-07-31,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after sending a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack expressing concern over stoppages to official grain inspections at the Port of Vancouver. “Wheat growers are at the heart of Eastern Washington’s economy, and the continual inefficiencies at the Port of Vancouver pose a threat to our longstanding export partnerships. In the Northwest, over 80 percent of our wheat is exported abroad – but these stoppages threaten to harm to our established trade with Asia and other parts of the world. This year’s wheat harvest is already underway, and our community’s farmers, grain handlers, and exporters rely on accurate, timely, and cost-effective mandated official grain inspection to support their livelihood. It is critical we assure our trading partners that the Port of Vancouver will continue to export a reliable supply of high-quality wheat – our local economy depends on it. “Together with my colleagues I urge the Federal Grain Inspection Service to take action today to provide the wheat growing community adequate inspection of wheat exports.” Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers led the letter to Secretary Vilsack. Her colleagues Representatives Doc Hastings (R-WA), Dave Reichert (R-WA), Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA), Greg Walden (R-OR), Mike Simpson (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jackie Walorski (R-IN), and Raúl Labrador (R-ID) joined her in urging the Secretary’s swift action in restoring timely grain inspection.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/alpine-lakes-legislation-clears-key-hurdle,Alpine Lakes Legislation Clears Key Hurdle,2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, a markup was held by the Natural Resources Committee on legislation from Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) and cosponsored by Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-WA): the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Additions and Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers Protection Act (H.R. 361); it was passed favorably out of committee.  This legislation would expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and designate both the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic. “Protecting this area for recreation and tourism opportunities is one of my highest priorities and I am pleased to see the Natural Resources Committee take this step to moving the Alpine Lakes legislation closer to law,” said Reichert. “Since this issue was first brought to my attention in 2006, I have refused to give up on working to ensure that the Alpine Lakes area receives the recognition and protection it deserves. Not only is this area an elegant, natural gem of both the state and the nation, it supports local economies and creates jobs. I want our children and grandchildren to enjoy everything Washington State has to offer, and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is one the best and most beautiful legacies we can leave them.” “With today’s passage of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness expansion bill out of the House Natural Resources Committee, we are one step closer to protecting one of the most popular wilderness destinations in the country,” said DelBene. “While I am concerned with some of the changes made to the bill today, this will not be the final version that the president signs into law. Expanding the Alpine Lakes is crucial in supporting outdoor recreation, which generates $22.5 billion in consumer spending each year and is responsible for 227,000 jobs in our state. A short drive from downtown Seattle, countless residents and tourists visit the Alpine Lakes to camp, fish, hunt, hike and enjoy some of the most spectacular views that Washington has to offer.” Tom Uniack, Conservation Director for Washington Wild was pleased to see the bill pass out of committee, and recognized the work already done and what remains to be accomplished. ""We are happy to see that this important bill passed the House Committee for the first time in four years under the sustained leadership of Congressman Reichert. However, the proposed deletion of low-elevation mature forests along the Pratt Connector Trail is a great concern. These lands are worthy of wilderness designation."" The existing Alpine Lakes Wilderness was designated by Congress in 1976 and is one of the most visited wilderness areas in the country. Key elements of the Alpine Lakes legislation include: Providing the protection of the Wilderness Act of 1964 for the lower elevation lands, which will bring a richer diversity of ecosystems, including deeply forested valleys, into the wilderness area and increase its overall biodiversity. The addition of these 21,000 acres of public land into wilderness has the direct effect of protecting a broader array of outdoor recreational opportunities easily accessible for wilderness enthusiasts. Designating the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic, which would permanently protect the rivers’ free-flowing character, water quality and outstanding recreation, fisheries, wildlife, geological and ecological values. This designation provides for many recreational activities including unique backcountry hiking, kayaking, and white water rafting that is unheard of so close to a major urban center.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=390114,Jaime Herrera Beutler Helps Advance Legislation Improving Southwest Washington Veterans Timely Access to Care,2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler issued the following statement today following the U.S. House of Representatives passage of the bipartisan agreement between the House and Senate to expand veterans access to health care, and put in place accountability measures at the VA. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler issued the following statement today following the U.S. House of Representatives passage of the bipartisan agreement between the House and Senate to expand veterans access to health care, and put in place accountability measures at the VA. “It’s time the federal government started treating our veterans with the respect they deserve.  Recent revelations of VA misconduct shows that many are simply being allowed to slip through the cracks.  This bipartisan agreement begins to address these issues by providing non-VA health care options for veterans who have been left waiting by the VA, or who live too far from a VA facility for regular visits to be realistic.  Some veterans in Southwest Washington have to make a 150 mile roundtrip to reach the nearest VA medical facility, and they need these alternate solutions.  “By providing this relief and strengthening the VA’s ability to hire more doctors and nurses, we’re moving toward finally putting our veterans’ needs first.  Importantly, this bill includes accountability measures – including the ability to remove failing managers – that will hopefully begin the process of reform the VA so badly needs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-testifies-importance-mountains-sound-greenway,Reichert Testifies on Importance of Mountains to Sound Greenway,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C – Today, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) testified before the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands and Environmental Regulation on his bill H.R. 1785,  the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area Act. Reichert said, “The Mountains to Sound Greenway is already a cultural and historical icon in Washington State.  Passage of this legislation would recognize that fact and help the communities around it thrive economically.  It would also offer further tourism and recreational opportunities to hundreds of thousands of people from not just the state, but around the nation and the world. I urge my colleagues to support the legislation and am grateful for the support of the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust and advocates such as Senator Slade Gorton who testified alongside me today.” Background Twenty years of innovative conservation and collaborative solutions protect the natural heritage of the Greenway. This network of parks, forests, farms, and cities is part of a regional history and a legacy for future generations. The Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area will be a fitting recognition of this regional identity in the Pacific Northwest, and serve as a model of sustainability and cooperative solutions for the nation.  A National Heritage Area is a large, lived-in area designated by the United States Congress where natural, cultural, historic and recreational resources combine to form a landscape of national distinction. This designation provides a flexible strategy to encourage residents, government agencies, nonprofit groups and private partners to collaboratively plan and implement projects to preserve a landscape, without affecting private property rights.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=389540,Jaime Herrera Beutler Calls for U.S. Senate Action on Highway Trust Fund,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler today issued the following statement urging the U.S. Senate to pass a bill allowing Southwest Washington transportation projects to continue. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler today issued the following statement urging the U.S. Senate to pass a bill allowing Southwest Washington transportation projects to continue. “It’s been two weeks since the U.S. House passed with overwhelming bipartisan support (367–55)  its measure to fund the Highway Trust Fund through March of 2015.  While we continue to work toward a longer-term solution to provide stable funding for our nation’s highways and infrastructure, this bill is absolutely necessary to keep our infrastructure projects on pace without significant disruption.  Unfortunately, with the August recess less than four days away, the U.S. Senate has not yet passed its own bill or considered the House’s legislation.    “U.S. Transportation Anthony Foxx has repeatedly warned that, without immediate action from Congress, the Highway Trust Fund will become insolvent as soon as next week, causing projects to come to a standstill.  The Washington State Department of Transportation recently announced that this would stall or eliminate 45 projects statewide, including multiple in Southwest Washington.  Funding transportation infrastructure is the federal government’s responsibility.   I hope that the Senate can quickly resolve whatever challenges are standing in its way and partner with the House to get this done.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140801020015/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2350,McMorris Rodgers: Empowering Eastern Washington,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) applauded the passage today of H.R. 4315, the Endangered Species Transparency and Reasonableness Act, which improves transparency and enhances species recovery, and reforms the listing decision process outlined in the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The Congresswoman is a co-sponsor of this legislation.  “We are blessed to live in a corner of the country abundant in wildlife and natural beauty. But for too long, our community has encountered excessive mandates and social costs due to the outdated ESA. By making ESA data public to Eastern Washington men and women, we can keep local citizens better informed while caring for our wildlife. And by requiring federal agencies to provide Washington state and our local government with information before listings are made, we are increasing transparency and keeping more individuals involved – because no one understands what is going on at home better than the people who live there.” H.R. 4315 keeps states, tribes and local governments involved by requiring the consideration of data submitted by these entities as a part of the ESA process.  Additionally, it requires the tracking and publication of ESA-related litigation expenses, including taxpayer-funded attorney fees. This legislation caps attorney fees for litigation filed under the Endangered Species Transparency and Reasonableness Act at $125 per hour. This is the same cap that applies to claims under the Equal Access to Justice Act, making it consistent with current law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140801020218/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2349,McMorris Rodgers Welcomes District Director Chud Wendle,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement announcing community leader and lifelong Eastern Washington resident Chud Wendle as her new District Director.  “It is with great excitement that I welcome Chud Wendle as my District Director. As a longtime leader and member of the Eastern Washington community, I know that he will serve as an invaluable member of our team. Chud brings over a decade of experience and involvement in Eastern Washington, having worked with numerous local non-profit organizations, including Goodwill Industries and United Way of both Pullman and Spokane. He and his family have a long history of giving back to our community, and I am glad to have him as a member of my staff. His leadership will bring new opportunities to my congressional office, advancing our partnership in moving Eastern Washington projects and issues forward. I look forward to working with Chud as we continue to bring new possibilities to Eastern Washington families.” Chud has worked in the private sector in both the automotive and real estate industries. Additionally, his entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of the first and only frozen yogurt and cupcake shop in Pullman. For the past ten years Chud has coached numerous sports teams, including volunteering as a Spokane Youth Sports coach.  Chud and his family recently moved back to Spokane after living in Pullman for six years. He and his wife, Cindy, have three sons, Ben, Nick, and Jack. Ben, their oldest, will be starting Lewis and Clark High School in the fall – making him the fourth generation of Wendle’s to attend the school. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=389539,Jaime Herrera Beutler Joins House in Confronting Sex Trafficking with Legislation to Help Vulnerable Youth,2014-07-25,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler voted with an overwhelming bipartisan majority of her U.S. House colleagues to pass eight bills aimed at assisting victims of sex trafficking and increasing protections for vulnerable individuals this week. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler voted with an overwhelming bipartisan majority of her U.S. House colleagues to pass eight bills aimed at assisting victims of sex trafficking and increasing protections for vulnerable individuals this week.  These bills complement the package of bills passed by the House in May to strengthen laws and penalties for purchasers of commercial child sex. With stories of trafficking in or just outside of Southwest Washington coming forth with startling regularity, Jaime has taken a lead role in Congress to combat the problem.  She was a cosponsor of all eight bills passed by the U.S. House in the last three days.  Five of these bills would equip professionals with training and provide resources to victims of trafficking – specifically runaway and foster youth. Three bills are aimed at stemming international trafficking. FACTS:   · One out of every seven runaways in the United States becomes a victim of trafficking. · In 2013, 60% of the trafficking victims recovered nationwide were from foster care or group homes, according to The National Council for Juvenile and Family Court Judges. ·There are only 267 emergency bed spaces for trafficking victims in the U.S.   “Foster care and runaway youth are some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and I cannot stand by while they are treated as prey,” said Jaime. “The bills we passed give the professionals who are entrusted with caring for these kids the resources and training they need to better identify when a child has become a victim and to help give them appropriate care. We also begin to address the need for emergency housing for those children who have been successfully removed from trafficking. As we continue to fight to stop this crime, we also need to help former victims regain structure and normalcy in their lives.” “One of the greatest needs we have once we get trafficking victims away from their exploiters is safe housing,” said Kay Vail, Probation Counselor, Clark County.  “These kids often need to be removed from their environment and have a safe place to go receive restorative care. The Human Trafficking Prevention, Intervention, and Recovery Act makes existing grants available for housing for victims of trafficking, which is a big need here in Clark County.  There are new adult facilities, but, because of licensing, there aren’t as many for youth.  There is only one I know of in the state of Washington.”  “I applaud Jaime for supporting these bills.  The vulnerable youth or ‘street’ kids who are often runaways and state dependents are preyed upon by men and women who exploit their weaknesses, drug addictions and lack of caring family figures in their lives, to name just a few,” said  Detective Jason Mills, Vancouver Police Department.  “The bottom line is that we need to find a way to keep the vulnerable youth in the foster care system and ensure their success.” Legislation passed this week: H.R. 5135, The Human Trafficking Prevention, Intervention, and Recovery Act ·         Allows existing Department of Justice grants to be used for emergency housing for trafficking victims. ·         Uses a three part approach of prevention, integrated law enforcement and strengthened resources. H.R. 5081, Strengthening Child Welfare Response to Trafficking Act ·         Ensures every state has updated child welfare policies and trains child welfare workers to better identify and assess child victims of trafficking. H.R. 5076, Enhancing Services for Runaway and Homeless Victims of Youth Trafficking Act ·         Allows the Department of Health and Human Services to use street outreach programs to identify and help homeless youth and move them off the streets. H.R. 4980, Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act ·         Empowers and promotes normalcy for foster youth, transitioning more children from foster care into adoptive homes or the homes of relatives more expeditiously. H.R. 5111, To improve the response to victims of child sex trafficking ·         Changes the language used in the reporting categories of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s from the term “child prostitute” to “child sex trafficking” to ensure children are treated as victims and not criminals. H.R. 2283, Human Trafficking Prioritization Act    ·         Elevates the status of the Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons from and office to a bureau and puts pressure on other countries to combat sex trafficking. H.R. 4449 Human Trafficking Prevention Act ·         Requires training for federal personnel who come into contact with trafficking. H.R. 5116 Human Trafficking Detection Act ·         Directs training for the Department of Homeland Security personnel to effectively deter, detect, disrupt, and prevent human trafficking.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/icymi-reichert-statement-preventing-sex-trafficking-and-strengthening-families-act,ICYMI: Reichert Statement on Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C – Last night, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) urged support of H.R. 4980, the Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act.  The legislation is a bipartisan, bicameral agreement incorporating several pieces of adoption legislation as well as Congressman Reichert’s Preventing Sex Trafficking of Youth in Foster Care legislation.  It passed the House unanimously and is a critical step forward to helping America’s youth in foster care find permanent, loving homes; lead happy successful lives; and stay off the streets and escape the horrors of sex trafficking. For Congressman Reichert, this is a deeply personal issue that he witnessed himself during his 33 years in law enforcement and particularly while working the Green River serial murder case in Washington State.  He said, “We have a responsibility to take care of these children.  For far too long we have not kept our promise to keep our foster kids safe.  Passing this legislation will do much to fix that failure and I look forward to seeing it on the president’s desk very soon.” To see Congressman’s Reichert’s full floor statement click here and for more information on H.R. 4980 click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140725004101/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2347,McMorris Rodgers: New Opportunities for Eastern Washington Students,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) applauded the passage today of H.R. 3136, the bipartisan Advancing Competency-Based Education Demonstration Project Act of 2014, which encourages innovation and flexibility in higher education. “As the first in my family to have graduated from college, I am especially proud of thebipartisan action the House took today to make higher education more affordable and accessible for people in Eastern Washington and across this country. For too long, obtaining higher education has meant financial hardship for students and familiesbecause traditional postsecondary education and federal aid programs have not kept up with advances in technology. This bipartisan legislation recognizes the needs of today’s students, making it possible for them to succeed and gain the fundamental skills they need to grow in the 21st century workforce. From WSU to Gonzaga, these efforts will to bring new opportunities to students on college campuses across Eastern Washington, and will make it possible for more students to gain personalized, cost-effective education.”    The bipartisan Advancing Competency-Based Education Demonstration Project Act of 2014 directs the Secretary of Education to implement competency-based education demonstration projects that will support innovation and take advantage of technology in delivering a quality education rather than relying on traditional “credit hours” to measure progress. It provides accountability by requiring an annual evaluation to determine the quality, progress, and financial assistance opportunities related to each demonstration project.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140725004728/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2345,McMorris Rodgers: Stepping Stones to Succeed,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) applauded the passage today of H.R. 4984, the Empowering Students Through Enhanced Financial Counseling Act, which increases awareness for students and families participating in the federal loan program. “As someone who is still paying off student loans, I know firsthand how important it is to plan ahead and be aware of the financial commitments that are so often associated with higher education. This bipartisan legislation gives Eastern Washington students and parents the tools they need to make informed decisions about their financial commitments – through interactive counseling sessions and greater loan awareness. Taking on loans is a significant investment – one that that no student should go into blindly. This bill will change that. By empowering students with access to financial counseling opportunities, we can ensure students succeed.” Through annual counseling, the Empowering Students Through Enhanced Financial Counseling Act requires borrowers to consent every year before receiving federal student loans, providing better awareness for both students and borrowers. Additionally, it informs low-income students about the terms and conditions of the Pell Grant program. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140725004931/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2344,"McMorris Rodgers, Transportation Secretary Foxx Discuss Eastern Washington Transportation Priorities",2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after meeting with United States Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx to discuss Eastern Washington’s transportation projects. “Transportation and infrastructure investment in Eastern Washington serves as the heartbeat of our community’s economic growth, and I was glad to speak with Secretary Foxx this afternoon to discuss the importance of these projects. Projects like ‘Connecting the Inland Pacific Hub Multimodal Centers to the Global Marketplace’ and North Spokane Corridor, which will better link our region to the rest of the world and expand economic opportunities. Secretary Foxx and I will continue to work together to advance Eastern Washington’s important transportation priorities.” The “Connecting the Inland Pacific Hub Multimodal Centers to the Global Marketplace” project seeks to rehabilitate portions of the Central Washington Branch of the state-owned Palouse River & Coulee City Rail System.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-50th-anniversary-land-and-water-conservation-fund,Reichert Statement on the 50th Anniversary of the Land and Water Conservation Fund,2014-07-23,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – This morning, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) joined a bipartisan group of House and Senate colleagues to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).  At the event, the LWCF Coalition released a new report examining the successes made possible by the LWCF and made policy recommendations to preserve the fund in the coming years.  A long-time champion of the LWCF, Congressman Reichert said, “For the last 50 years, the LWCF has played a pivotal role in preserving America’s national treasures for future generations. In Washington alone, it has helped to conserve the natural beauty of the Pacific Crest Trail, Mt. Rainier National Park, Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area, and the Columbia River Gorge. These are places that attract visitors from across the country, and even from other parts of the globe. I look forward to working with my colleagues to sustain the LWCF and put it to good use in the next 50 years.” The LWCF was authorized by the House of Representatives on July 23, 1964 and became law on September 3 of the same year. It is the only federal program that is solely dedicated to conserving and protecting national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, civil war battlefields, and the creation and development of state and local parks.  The fund does not use taxpayer dollars, instead it is funded through revenues from offshore oil and gas royalty payments.  The types of projects supported by the fund in turn support over 227,000 jobs in the Washington. To read the full anniversary report, titled “50 Years of Conserving America the Beautiful”, visit LWCFcoaltion.org.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=389538,Jaime Herrera Beutler Statement Regarding New Rail Safety Regulations,2014-07-23,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler today issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Department of Transportation’s new rail safety rule. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler today issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Department of Transportation’s new rail safety rule. “The U.S. Department of Transportation’s proposed rule is an encouraging move toward assuring the safe transport of energy products both here in Southwest Washington and around the country.  My firm belief has always been that while our economy can benefit from the boom in domestic sources of energy, we have to make sure the safety of railroad workers and communities along train routes keeps up.  “The Administration’s demand for upgraded railcars and slower speeds is a necessary next step.  This is particularly important in environmentally sensitive areas like the Columbia River Gorge and highly populated area like Vancouver where the transport of energy products is already happening.  Improving emergency readiness and response efforts are welcomed reforms, especially in smaller Washington towns through which dozens of trains travel every day. “As a member of the House Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee, I helped write a bill that was approved by the House on May 27, 2014 calling on USDOT to finalize a rule for improved safety standards for oil cars.  The bill also included additional funding for increased rail safety measures and improved rail crossings in towns.  I am pleased to see that the Administration has responded positively toward the House’s actions, and I look forward to building on that progress when the Senate passes its own transportation appropriations bill. “I look forward to hearing from those Southwest Washington communities impacted by rail transport, and working with the Administration in the coming months to improve upon this proposal.”    Flashback (VIDEO): Jaime Herrera Beutler presses U.S. DOT Secretary Foxx to issue updated safety rules in March.  Watch video here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140725005135/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2348,McMorris Rodgers: New Opportunities for Eastern Washington Students,2014-07-23,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) applauded the passage today of H.R. 3136, the bipartisan Advancing Competency-Based Education Demonstration Project Act of 2014, which encourages innovation and flexibility in higher education. “As the first in my family to have graduated from college, I am especially proud of thebipartisan action the House took today to make higher education more affordable and accessible for people in Eastern Washington and across this country. For too long, obtaining higher education has meant financial hardship for students and familiesbecause traditional postsecondary education and federal aid programs have not kept up with advances in technology. This bipartisan legislation recognizes the needs of today’s students, making it possible for them to succeed and gain the fundamental skills they need to grow in the 21st century workforce. From WSU to Gonzaga, these efforts will to bring new opportunities to students on college campuses across Eastern Washington, and will make it possible for more students to gain personalized, cost-effective education.”    The bipartisan Advancing Competency-Based Education Demonstration Project Act of 2014 directs the Secretary of Education to implement competency-based education demonstration projects that will support innovation and take advantage of technology in delivering a quality education rather than relying on traditional “credit hours” to measure progress. It provides accountability by requiring an annual evaluation to determine the quality, progress, and financial assistance opportunities related to each demonstration project.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140725005821/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2343,McMorris Rodgers: America's Strength as a Global Leader,2014-07-23,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after hosting a meeting with congressional leaders and stakeholders to discuss recent events, America’s role in the world, and the components needed to transition to a 21st century military. “As we face escalating conflicts across the globe, it is imperative that we have a clear vision of America’s 21st-century role in the world. And that is why we must have these important conversations – to look ahead and develop a strategy that keeps the United States as the world’s leader. The recent developments in Iraq, Ukraine, and Israel underscore the need for bold American leadership. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus and the representative of Fairchild Air Force Base, I will make every effort to foster our place as a global leader for today and tomorrow.” These recurring meetings offer a unique opportunity for Members of Congress and defense experts to speak openly and substantively about the role the U.S. plays on a global scale. As a former member of the House Armed Services Committee, the Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus, and a representative of Eastern Washington’s military community, including Fairchild Air Force Base, Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers continues to work on issues affecting issues affecting U.S. defense policy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140725010024/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2346,McMorris Rodgers: A Champion for the Disability Community,2014-07-23,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after delivering testimony before the Senate Committee on Finance in support of H.R. 647, the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, for which she is an original cosponsor and a longtime champion. ""As the mom of a son who was born with that extra 21st chromosome, my family understands firsthand how federal policies limit – not expand – the opportunities for those with disabilities.  And the ABLE Act will change that.  It will ensure that my son, Cole – and the millions like him who have special needs – will be able to save for their futures and reach their full potential. In Eastern Washington and across this country, individuals with disabilities and their families spend countless hours worrying about their financial security. This stress, coupled with outdated laws – laws that encourage a life of dependence rather than saving assets for future expenses – must change. “As Americans, we want to empower everyone in this country – regardless of background or birth – and the ABLE Act will do that. It will empower millions of Americans, bringing independence for people with disabilities instead of requiring them to remain dependent on the federal government. It will help ensure that those with special needs will be able to save for their futures and reach their full potential – which every person should have the right to.” The ABLE Act would allow parents of children with disabilities to save for their children’s future without jeopardizing their access to benefits, helping many of them escape from poverty while adding another layer of security.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388775,Jaime Herrera Beutler statement on Todays Court Ruling Against the ACA,2014-07-22,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler today issued the following statement after the D.C. Court of Appeals decision in Halbig v. Burwell. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler today issued the following statement after the D.C. Court of Appeals decision in Halbig v. Burwell. “This ruling against one of the health care law’s central pillars is just one latest reminder of how problem-riddled and unworkable the Affordable Care Act is.  Five years ago, Congress hastily passed this massive health care bill in order to find out what it did – and since then, Southwest Washington families have seen their premiums go up, their plans cancelled, the loss of their doctors, and their access to care limited.  In Washington state, just this week we found out that the health care coverage of 6,000 Washington state residents has been jeopardized over yet another of the law’s ‘glitches.’  We don’t need any more glaring reminders that our region needs better patient-centered health care reform that makes health care more accessible, affordable and higher quality for everyone.  There are better solutions to ensure Americans who are young, or struggling, or living with a pre-existing condition can access good health care.” Background: -Today the D.C. Court of Appeals ruled that the federal exchange could not provide the subsidies to Americans that it had promised. -This week, the Seattle Times detailed the latest flaw in Washington’s Health Exchange.  Up to 6,000 people have been impacted and are being told they don’t have health care coverage.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-washington-fires,Reichert Statement on Washington Fires,2014-07-20,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reichert Statement on Washington Fires Jul 20, 2014 Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) released the following statement regarding the ongoing wildfire situation in Washington State: ""My thoughts and prayers are with all the first responders and firefighters who are battling one of the worst fire seasons Washington State has seen and with the families that have lost or are in danger of losing their homes.  We have not seen this kind of devastation in many years and we must now come together as a community to help our friends and neighbors. ""I thank those already risking so much battling these fires and helping others move to safety.  I also thank those who are giving up their time to help feed and care for those who have been evacuated.  They can’t do it alone and need all of our help and support. ""I pray for the safety of all, for the first responders and firefighters, for the victims of the fire, for improved weather conditions and a quick end to the fires.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388685,Longview Daily News Guest Column: VA has been doing our vets a disservice,2014-07-20,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"We owe the privilege of living in the greatest nation largely to those military veterans who have sacrificed to defend it. It is thus difficult to explain how the agency created to provide for their health care – including treatment for the wounds they suffered in service to our nation – has fallen so short. One Washougal veteran recently shared his story with me that mirrors the problems too many are experiencing locally with the VA. When “Steve” joined the Army, he fully understood that deploying to Iraq would involve risks– but it never crossed his mind that one would be the difficulty of obtaining the health care he was promised upon his return. After his service ended, Steve’s doctor requested an MRI at the Portland VA Medical Center for a combat-related knee injury. That was in November of 2012. However, it wasn’t until October of 2013 -- after ten months of phone calls and conversations with VA caseworkers who couldn’t explain the delay -- that the appointment was finally scheduled. He was also unable to get the VA to provide the back surgery needed for an injury sustained in Iraq. His story is hardly unique. In the wake of news that a Phoenix VA Medical Center was manipulating wait times and denying care, an internal VA investigation found that the Portland VA Medical Center that serves Southwest Washington residents has an average wait time of 80 days for their first basic care appointment for issues like high blood pressure or asthma. New patients must wait 29 days for their first mental health appointment. That’s too long for someone suffering symptoms of PTSD or other serious mental trauma. The reason I regularly host veterans resource fairs in Kelso and Chehalis, and why I highlight stories of Southwest Washington veterans on the front of my website, is because we should do everything we can to honor and support our nation’s heroes. Along those lines, it’s clear what Congress must do: fix the problems in the VA and put the care of our veterans first. How to start? First, let’s make sure veterans who have been waiting for appointments get them immediately, even if that means going to clinics outside the VA system. Then let’s fix the systemic problems within the VA so that veterans are receiving timely, top-notch health care. In response to the revelations of delayed care, I joined my colleagues to help pass the “Veterans’ Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act.” This bill would require the VA to pay for veterans to get care at private health clinics if they have faced extensive wait times or live more than forty miles from a VA medical facility. The bill also starts changing the internal structure of the VA by giving the Secretary of the VA authority to fire managers who aren’t doing their jobs, and suspends bonuses for all VA employees for the next two years. This bill was a good start, but it is just that – only the beginning. Fixing the poor service delivered by the VA goes beyond just increasing funding. Congress has consistently increased VA funding for medical services each year, but we’re still left with Southwest Washington veterans waiting 80 days for an appointment. We need a culture change within the VA that incorporates transparency, accountability and make veterans the top priority. As a member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee that determines federal spending levels, I’ll hold VA leadership accountable for making this change. Take the VA’s taxpayer-funded “mobile medical units” that are supposed to provide prescriptions, flu shots, and basic health services to veterans in rural areas. My office had been requesting the Puget Sound mobile medical unit visit Southwest Washington for three years, but had only been given vague excuses. I fought for legislation demanding an objective report on the entire mobile medical unit program, and the results were worse than I imagined: the VA didn’t know how many mobile medical units they owned, how many veterans they had helped, or their operating costs. Some units sit unused 25 days each month. It’s clear that the VA could be better utilizing the resources it already possesses. I won’t rest until vets have access to the care they have earned. I’m committed to working with my colleagues from both parties to bring the VA up to the standard that our veterans deserve. Let’s start with getting care to those who have been waiting, and then work to improve quality and access for current veterans and those who have yet to return from service. We owe them no less. If you are a veteran who is having trouble accessing your benefits, my office is here to help. Please call (360) 695-6292 or visit my website JHB.House.Gov. U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Wash., represents Washington’s 3rd Congressional District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140725010403/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2341,McMorris Rodgers Statement on Central Washington Wildfires,2014-07-19,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today in response to the wildfires impacting Washington state.  “As these devastating wildfires continue to plague communities throughout Central Washington, my thoughts and my prayers go out to the men, women, and children who have been impacted. I offer my deepest appreciation to those who have put their lives on the line to combat these spreading fires -- the firemen, Washington Guard, and countless volunteers. I remain in contact with those authorities working around the clock to keep all Washingtonians safe as we work toward a rapid, effective response.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388310,"Jaime Herrera Beutler Demands Truthful Explanation, Accountability and Action for VAs Absentee Mobile Medical Units",2014-07-17,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler today called on the local VA to explain the real reasons for why its mobile medical units are not serving rural veterans, and they are sitting unused for up to 25 days out of each month. share: f t Jaime Herrera Beutler today called on the local VA to explain the real reasons for why its mobile medical units are not serving rural veterans, and they are sitting unused for up to 25 days out of each month. Jaime began requesting that the Puget Sound Region’s mobile medical unit start serving rural veterans in Southwest Washington in 2012.  These units are supposed to provide basic care, such as prescriptions and flu shots, to veterans in remote and rural areas.   Since then, the response from the VA’s local unit has been a comedy of errors.  At least, it would be a comedy if basic health care for rural veterans wasn't suffering as a result.  As recently as last week, the Veteran Integrated Service Network (VISN) 20 – the VA’s regional management unit –  had been issuing excuses to Jaime Herrera Beutler’s office that conflicted with previous explanations.  Some explanations were internal communications that appear to be sent unintentionally, and others were quickly recalled by the VA. VA: No idea how many units exist or how much they cost  In May, as a result of Herrera Beutler-authored legislation, the VA’s Office of the Inspector General issued a report stating that the VA didn’t know how many mobile medical units it possessed, how many veterans they had helped, or their operating costs.  Even worse, the VA couldn’t demonstrate whether the $29 million they have spent on mobile medical units had increased rural veterans' access to health care.  Some units, such as the Puget Sound-area unit located in American Lake, sit unused for up to 25 days a month. “Calling the management of these mobile medical units a mess would be an understatement,” said Jaime.  “At best, the VA’s coordination of these units has been grossly incompetent.  At worst, the conflicting excuses I’ve been given for the lack of action suggest intentional manipulation of information.  In light of the other issues the VA needs to address, I would hope it would finally respond to this problem with transparency and accountability. Instead, I’ve seen the ‘sweep the problems under the rug’ approach continue.  “For two years I’ve been urging the VA to better utilize this resource, and this week, VA Acting Secretary Gibson pledged to deploy Mobile Medical Units to increase access to VA health care,” Jaime continued.  “While I’m hopeful that they will follow through on this promise, I’m going to keep them accountable for identifying the real reasons these units are sitting idle and ways they can fully utilize them to get care to those veterans who need and deserve it.”   Timeline of Jaime Herrera Beutler’s efforts to get Mobile Medical Units deployed to Southwest Washington: November 2011 – At Jaime’s Chehalis Veterans Resource Fair, a VA health care provider informed her about the Puget Sound mobile medical unit. The provider’s request to take the mobile medical unit to a coastal community to administer flu immunizations had been denied.   Early 2012 – Jaime made inquiries to the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs, the VA Congressional Liaison, and then connected with Veteran Integrated Service Network (VISN) 20, WA, OR, ID, AK.  July 2012 – Jaime sent a letter to VISN 20 Acting Director Michael Fisher asking for the mobile medical unit to come to rural areas in her district.  August 2012 – Acting Director Fisher sent a formal letter response citing staffing challenges and mechanical problems as the cause of the Puget Sound’s mobile medical unit scarcely being utilized for 2.5 years. January 2014 – Jaime’s legislative provision requesting an independent report on mobile medical unit utilization, efficiency, and cost effectiveness is signed into law.  May 2014 – Report comes back with alarming findings. The VA didn’t know how many mobile medical units it had, how many veterans were being served, or how much they cost to run. Jaime supported the improvement recommendations included in the report. June 2014 – Jaime again requests to have the Puget Sound mobile medical unit serve rural communities in Southwest Washington. VISN 20 staff cites electronic health records not being able to interface as the reason it cannot serve the region. June 2014 – Jaime wrote a letter to VA Acting Secretary Sloan Gibson regarding wait times and urged him to consider expanded use of mobile medical units.  She also asked for the mobile medical unit to visit her district, and that she had been told the problem was that the electronic health systems not being able to interface.  July 8, 2014 – VISN 20 staff accidentally sent internal working notes.  An excerpt from the note, apparently instructing VA staff on how to construct the response: “The Congresswoman only wants to know why we can’t send the MMU to Portland to help out, the reason it is too expensive and Puget Sound needs it up there and back that up with data.” July 8, 2014 – VISN 20 recalls the previous message, and states via email “It is not too expensive.” July 9, 2014 –VISN 20 staff sends the July 9 communication, and states: 1.      It is not an IT issue that prevents the MMU from treating veterans in our district, and any suggestion that it was was a miscommunication. 2.      That the Mobile Medical Unit has been consistently been deployed at full capacity. July 9, 2014 – VISN 20 staff recalls the prior communication. July 16, 2014 – VA News Release states “VHA facilities are adding more clinic hours, aggressively recruiting to fill physician vacancies, deploying mobile medical units, using temporary staffing resources, and expanding the use of private sector care.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388208,"Jaime Herrera Beutler and U.S. House Appropriations Committee Advance Bill for Healthy Forests, Healthy Waters, and Healthy Rural Communities",2014-07-16,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime and a majority of the U.S. House Appropriations committee yesterday approved critical funding for fighting wildfires, as well as other Southwest Washington priorities. share: f t Jaime and a majority of the U.S. House Appropriations committee yesterday approved critical funding for fighting wildfires, as well as other Southwest Washington priorities. The U.S. House Appropriations Committee approved a bill to fund the Department of Interior, Forest Service, EPA, and other related agencies in the upcoming year that was $409 million below the President’s request. In addition to wildfire fighting funding, the responsible spending bill calls for more active management on our national forests, and also includes funding to protect Northwest waters from aquatic invasive species that threaten both ecosystems and local economies.   Southwest Washington priorities included in this bill: Wild Fire prevention: Wildfires have been increasing in severity over the past several years, damaging forests, threatening safety, and forcing the Forest Service to tap into its budget for other services and priorities. The bill includes $291 million for wildfire suppression and $160 million for hazardous fuel management.  The bill also calls for active forest management to prevent wildfires by reducing the fuel load and creating healthier forest.  This would also create healthier species habitat. Forest Road Maintenance and Construction: The bill would direct the U.S. Forest Service to maintain forest roads in a way that preserves recreational opportunity and reduces costs.  Currently, the Forest Service cannot adequately maintain 4,078 miles of road and 115 road bridges in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.  Many of these roads pose safety, environmental and public health threats that must be addressed.  This bill would direct the USFS to close and stabilize the roads as opposed to permanently decommissioning them.  Along with the recreational opportunities and taxpayer savings created by this provision, access for firefighting and future forest management would still be available. Aquatic Invasive Species: The nonnative quagga and zebra mussels have severely damaged freshwater eco systems in the Northeast and Southwest United States. This bill provides $2 million for containment, prevention, and enforcement to prevent the spread of these invasive species to uncontaminated bodies of water throughout Washington state. Payment in Lieu of Taxes Fund (PILT): The bill includes $422 million for payments to counties with large portions of land owned by the federal government. These funds help offset the loss of property tax income that pays for education, emergency services, county road maintenance, and other critical services in rural communities.    “The increase in wildfires in past years has consumed the Forest Service’s budget and crippled its ability to properly manage our forests,” said Jaime.  “This bill acknowledges that, given the current state of our national forests, more funding is needed to fight wildfires– but we also call for more active management to bring about a future of healthier forests less susceptible to fires.  “As our fish populations continue to recover, the need to protect our waters from invasive species has never been greater,” continued Jaime. “Given the havoc they’ve wreaked on other ecosystems and economies throughout the country, I’m pleased to offer this bill that will help prevent the spread of quagga and zebra mussels to our region’s waters, protecting local species and local jobs.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140718004148/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2337,McMorris Rodgers: Securing Protection for Our Digital Economy,2014-07-16,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) applauded the passage today of H.R. 3086,the bipartisanPermanent Internet Tax Freedom Act. This legislation, which McMorris Rodgers co-sponsors, permanently ensures Americans can continue to access the Internet tax free. “Every American should be able to use the internet without paying taxes, and now we can permanently guarantee noone faces a tax burden just to go online. This smart legislation will continue to enable Eastern Washington men, women, and children to communicate, learn, and conduct business in the 21st century. I was proud to cast my vote in support of this bill because a secure future digital economy – for wine producers in Walla Walla and online businesses in Spokane – relies on a tax free Internet every day.”  This legislation permanently ensures that access to the Internet is not burdened by unnecessary costs and that Americans can continue to access the Internet tax free.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140718004349/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2335,McMorris Rodgers: Eastern Washington Men and Women Deserve an Accountable Government,2014-07-16,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) applauded the passage today of H.R. 5016, the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2015, which brings new possibilities to Eastern Washington and provides annual funding for the Treasury Department, the Judiciary, the Small Business Administration, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and several other agencies. “Today, I voted to create better opportunities for American taxpayers, because men and women in Eastern Washington are tired of a federal government that works against them. By increasing transparency and accountability in numerous government agencies, including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), we are reducing government spending and streamlining government agencies to better work for the people of Eastern Washington. No person should be discriminated against because of his or her political beliefs, and this bill prevents the IRS from targeting individuals based on these beliefs. And by prohibiting the IRS from implementing Obamacare’s individual mandate, we are reining in this agency’s intrusive overreach into the lives of millions of Americans. The time is now to build a better life for all Americans and to restore trust in our government, and I hope my colleagues in the Senate will follow suit.” The Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2015 is the seventh appropriations bill the House has passed since April, while the Senate has yet to pass a single one. It reduces IRS funding to a level sufficient for the agency to perform its core duties, including taxpayer services and the proper collection of funds, but will require the agency to streamline and make better use of its budget. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140718004549/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2336,McMorris Rodgers: Boosting Eastern Washington Infrastructure Jobs,2014-07-15,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) applauded the passage today of H.R. 5021, the Highway and Transportation Funding Act of 2014, which keeps safe thousands of jobs and secures funding for Eastern Washington transportation projects. “By passing legislation that keeps transportation projects like the North Spokane Corridor and U.S. Highway 12 in Walla Walla going, we are ensuring Eastern Washington roads remain open and Eastern Washington transportation jobs are protected. Supporting our nation's highways and bridges can go a long way in creating jobs and supporting our local economy, and this bill protects tens of thousands of American jobs in communities across our country. However, there is more work to be done, and we must now come together to develop a long-term solution, ensuring a lasting infrastructure network for Eastern Washington.” This legislation reauthorizes funding for Federal highway and surface transportation programs through May 31, 2015. Additionally, this bill addresses the looming shortfall in the Highway Trust Fund by providing critical funding through three funding provisions, none of which involve tax increases.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388097,Jaime Herrera Beutler secures funding for dredging and harbor maintenance and Hanford cleanup,2014-07-11,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime voted with a bipartisan majority of her colleagues late Thursday night to advance a responsible spending bill that secures funding for waterway maintenance on the Pacific Coast and Columbia River, as well as Hanford cleanup. share: f t Jaime voted with a bipartisan majority of her colleagues late Thursday night to advance a responsible spending bill that secures funding for waterway maintenance on the Pacific Coast and Columbia River, as well as Hanford cleanup.   The U.S. House of Representatives voted to approve the FY 2015 Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, legislation that funds U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Hanford cleanup efforts under the Department of Energy.  As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Jaime helped craft this bill that continues the trend of this year’s appropriations packages to cut spending from previous years, reducing total discretionary funding by $50 million from Fiscal Year 2014 levels.  Southwest Washington priorities included in this bill: Funding for dredging and harbor maintenance: $1.1 billion in harbor maintenance from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF). Background: The HMTF was created with the purpose of waterway and port maintenance and is funded by a tax importers pay when using U.S. ports. Historically the fund takes in millions of dollars more each year than is expended. $42 million of the HMTF designated specifically for small ports like Ilwaco, Chinook and many other along the Columbian River. Over $25 million for the mouth of the Columbia River, including critical jetty rehabilitation.  Funding for Hanford clean-up: The bill restores $25 million not included in the President’s budget toward cleanup projects at the Hanford nuclear site. “Our region is uniquely positioned on the Pacific Ocean and the Columbian River, and we need to maintain our waterways so that they remain an incredible asset to our economy. The funding in this bill for maintaining ports like Chinook and Ilwaco is essential to growing jobs in our economy, and I’m pleased we’re utilizing the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund to keep our waterways operating at full capacity,” said Jaime. “As we lower spending to meet budget realities, it’s still critically important that we maintain nuclear waste cleanup efforts upriver from our communities,” continued Jaime. “The commitment by our federal government to clean up Hanford should be a non-negotiable, but the president’s budget fell far short of what was needed. I was able to help restore some of that funding, and I’ll continue calling on the Department of Energy to ensure that efforts are efficient and timely.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140718014722/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2333,McMorris Rodgers: We Stand Beside Israel,2014-07-11,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today applauding the House passage of H. Res 657, which calls on Hamas to immediately cease its rocket attacks against Israel. “It is with full and unwavering support that I stand beside our true friend and ally in the Middle East, the state of Israel.  We condemn the violent terrorist attacks that have been executed in the name of Jihad, and our resolution reaffirms Israel’s right to defend herself.  When five million innocent Israelis wake up every morning to the threat of deadly rocket attacks, they have a right to protect themselves.  When Hamas – a terrorist organization that has fired more than 600 rockets from Gaza in the last month alone – calls for the destruction of the State of Israel, the people have a right to respond.  And this Congress stands beside them as they do.  “Our resolution reaffirms Israel’s right to defend herself and calls on Hamas to immediately cease its rocket attacks.  We must come together as Americans to condemn the terrorist attacks against the people of Israel.  They are unwarranted and unprovoked.  And they must be stopped.  Furthermore, we urge the Administration, as it moves forward in its nuclear negotiations with Iran, to take a somber look at Iran’s support to Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which enables them to produce longer-range rockets to kill innocent Israelis.  We send the people of Israel the steadfast and unending support of the United States of America.”  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140711014639/http://mcmorris.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=96&itemid=2332,"McMorris Rodgers: Expanding Employment Opportunities for Eastern Washington Students, Disability Community",2014-07-09,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC– Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) applauded the passage today of H.R. 803, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which creates new opportunities for the people of Eastern Washington by closing the skills gap between job seekers and job opportunities. “This bipartisan legislation will improve our nation’s workforce training system and help put hard-working men and women in Eastern Washington back to work. By closing the gap between the millions currently unemployed and the millions of jobs left unfilled because of a lack of required skills, we can ensure new opportunities for today's job seekers and equip the next generation of innovators with the workforce they need to succeed. “Additionally, by focusing efforts on youth service programs, we’re working to reduce the high school dropout rate and bring new opportunities to Eastern Washington’s young people. And by ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the skills necessary to be successful in workplaces that provide competitive employment, this legislation guarantees countless Eastern Washington men and women new possibilities for reaching their full potential.” The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act streamlines the federal workforce program and creates community and state-specific workforce development boards to best fit unique local needs. By enabling businesses to identify in-demand skills and match workers seeking to build those skills, this bill encourages Eastern Washington’s Aerospace Corridor to increase employment opportunities in the region. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388694,Daily World Guest Column House members offer economic incentive for ocean research,2014-07-01,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Working on the water in our corner of Washington state is a way of life. share: f t Working on the water in our corner of Washington state is a way of life. Every year, shellfish farmers along the coastlines we represent collect and harvest the seafood that ends up on dinner plates and store shelves across America and around the world. There are also the commercial and recreational fishermen who have sustained jobs for generations. Fishermen and shellfish growers are woven into the fabric of our economy. It’s safe to say that Washington state is the nation’s seafood breadbasket. All that demand for seafood caught in our rich waters creates jobs for our communities. But the livelihoods of these workers — from boats to docks to processing plants to restaurants — face a new threat that comes from the ocean itself. Lately we’ve been hearing from folks in our area about how ocean acidification is changing the very chemistry of the Pacific and damaging our seafood industry in the process. This is a problem that must be confronted head on. Washington state’s fishing industry supports more than 67,000 jobs and generated over $8 billion in seafood sales in 2011. The state also leads the nation in producing farmed clams, oysters, and mussels with much of that production coming from our regions. These growers in Washington state contribute more than $250 million to the economy and support more than 3,200 jobs. It’s clear that any harm acidification causes to the seafood we catch puts a big dent in our economy. Recently, we’ve seen why this is such a threat and how it comes down to the acidity in water (or pH). As the pH in a body of water like the Pacific Ocean lowers, the level of acidity rises. Acidic water makes it harder to sustain the nutrients that help organisms up and down the food chain grow. Take, for example, the plight of pteropods. These tiny sea butterflies are actually a large part of the diet for salmon and other fish important to Washington state. Unfortunately, those lower pH levels cut pteropods off from the materials they need to grow strong shells. Now, scientists are finding that these shells are dissolving, making it harder for pteropods to survive. Even more worrisome, the shells of shellfish have the same components as pteropods. Along these same lines, scientists have discovered that low pH creates a corrosive environment for baby oysters — contributing to some of the die offs we’ve seen in recent years. The Seattle Times has highlighted how family-owned businesses like the Goose Point Oyster Co. are concerned about the future of oysters in our region. With these high stakes, we joined together to take action to help our region. This is an issue that cuts across party lines: it’s about making sure we help preserve and protect quality jobs that fuel economic growth. We introduced the Ocean Acidification Innovation Act, a proposal to encourage breakthrough solutions to the acidification problem. Our approach is modeled after the XPRIZE, a non-profit organization that creates public competitions that ask people to try and find solutions to problems that impact us all. In turn, that generates increased investment, and in the Ansari XPRIZE case, launched an entire industry of personal space flight. Why prizes? Testimony by representatives from XPRIZE explained it best. A $5 million research grant will generally yield $5 million of research. In contrast, a $5 million research prize competition can yield four to ten times leverage. In other words, private industry and university research will combine to do $20 million to $40 million of research. So our legislation calls on federal agencies to leverage existing funds by creating prize competitions that will increase our ability to manage, research, and monitor ocean acidification and its impacts. In a time of tighter budgets, we need to make sure that every dollar goes farther, and we think these competitions are an innovative way to do that and help solve the acidification problem. Most importantly, it won’t take any new dimes out of taxpayer pockets. But it will bolster ongoing research efforts. We hope others join us in our efforts to minimize any harm acidification could cause. Now is the time to ensure that future generations are able to make a living in Washington state off healthy waters. Congressman Derek Kilmer is a Democrat representing Washington’s Sixth District. Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler represents the state’s Third District. The two represent voters in portions of the Twin Harbors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z