url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/case-you-missed-it-reichert-op-ed-tacoma-news-tribune-daca,In Case You Missed It: Reichert Op-Ed in the Tacoma News Tribune on DACA,2017-12-28,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - In case you missed it, Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) published an op-ed in the Tacoma News Tribune on the pending deadline for DACA recipients. ""This issue transcends politics. It is about these children, their hope and their opportunity for a better life - a life free from uncertainty."" Read the rest of the article HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-kilmer-call-defense-secretary-mattis-immediately-implement-inspector-general,"Reichert, Kilmer Call on Defense Secretary Mattis to Immediately Implement Inspector Generals Recommendations to Comply with FBI Background Check Reporting Requirements",2017-12-27,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Following the report earlier this month from the Department of Defenses Inspector General showing that the Military Services did not consistently submit convicted offenders fingerprint cards and final disposition reports to the FBIs Next Generation Identification Database, Representatives Dave Reichert (R-WA) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) issued a letter asking the Secretary of Defense James Mattis to immediately implement the OIGs recommendations to prevent future reporting lapses. The bipartisan pair also requested an outline of the DODs plan to correct previous reporting errors. As a former Sheriff and law enforcement officer for 33 years, I know how important it is to keep guns out of the hands of those who seek to do harm, said Rep. Reichert. It is why we should do all we can to make sure our federal background check system is strong and effective, including ensuring relevant information is in the system. I am proud to join with Rep. Kilmer to urge the Department of Defense to quickly improve their background check reporting practices and to request specific information on how they plan to ensure no individual slips through the cracks. The Texas mass-shooting, like too many other acts of gun violence, was preventable, but the government failed to do the simple paperwork required to keep guns out of the hands of convicted criminals, Rep. Kilmer said, Everyone I have talked to in our community wants to see guns kept out of the hands of dangerous convicted criminals. Background checks are useless if the databases designed to prevent convicted violent criminals from getting guns arent up to date. Secretary Mattis shouldnt waste another second to implement the Inspector Generals recommendations which could prevent future tragedies. The OIG found that the militarys failure to report convictions and to deliver fingerprints to the FBI was systemic. The OIG has conducted regular investigations identifying this issue since 1997. This most recent report found 601 of the 2502 fingerprint cards that the DOD was required to report on to the FBI were not submitted as required. That amounts to 24 percent. One of the unreported cases was the Air Forces court-martialing of Devin P. Kelley who was convicted on two counts equivalent to felonies in the civil system stemming from a domestic violence incident. Had the Air Force properly reported the conviction, Devin Kelley would have failed an FBI background check, possibly preventing him from purchasing the guns and body armor he used to murderchurchgoers at the First Baptist Church in Southerland Springs, Texasin one of the nationsdeadliest mass shootings in historyearlier this year. The DOD OIG made several specific recommendations to address these deficiencies. For example, the OIG recommended that the Secretaries of the Army, Navy and Air Force ensure that all fingerprint cards and final disposition reports be promptly reported to the FBI. More broadly, the OIG recommended that the Secretaries of each of the militarys branches, as well as the Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence, and the Deputy Chief Management Officer immediately perform a comprehensive review of their criminal investigative databases and files to ensure all required fingerprint cards and final disposition reports for qualifying offenses at least to 1998 have been submitted to the FBI in compliance with the DOD and FBI requirements. In addition to complying with federal background check reporting requirements, Reps. Reichert and Kilmer supported the Veteran Urgent Access to Mental Healthcare Act, which would increase the mental health care options available to veterans with an other than honorable discharge. Last month, the House of Representatives passed the legislation. Under current law, service members separated from the military with an other than honorable discharge are not allowed to seek care at VA facilities, which bars many veterans in need of mental health care from receiving it. The OIGs report can be read in full here. The letter Kilmer and Reichert sent to Secretary Mattis is available in full here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-promise-kept-reducing-tax-burdens,COLUMN: Promise Kept on Reducing Tax Burdens,2017-12-25,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"For hard working families and entrepreneurs in Central Washington, keeping more of your own paycheck was my goal in supporting historic legislation approved by Congress, The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The last time the nations federal tax system was overhauled was in 1986, under President Ronald Reagan. But with the leadership of President Trump and Republicans in the Senate and House, and with my support, we succeeded in pushing major tax reform for American families and businesses across the finish line. Reducing the rate for American corporations and small businesses has already begun to have a positive impact for workers. Instead of the 35 percent rate that sets the U.S. apart as one of the highest in the industrialized world, we succeeded in reducing the corporate rate to 21 percent so that American companies no longer face a disadvantage. After passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, companies such as AT&T, Comcast, and others announced rounds of Christmas bonuses and benefits for workers. A major employer in Washington State, Boeing, even announced $300 million dollars in employee-related and charitable investment as a direct result of the approval of tax reform. I hope to see even more companies step up and invest in workers and communities here at home. In the 4th Congressional District, 80 percent of filers file using the standard deduction. Our reform doubles the standard deduction from $6,350 to $12,000 and $12,000 to $24,000 for individuals and married couples, respectively. It also doubles the child tax credit, from $1,000 to $2,000, to help families with the cost of raising children. 88 percent of taxpayers in Washington who pay the individual mandate make $75,000 or less. The tax penalty of the Affordable Care Acts individual mandate is also eliminated by our reform. These changes alone will help the vast majority of families in Central Washington. Returning more of your own paycheck to you used to be a goal that crossed party lines. As difficult as it might be to remember considering todays sometimes apocalyptic rhetoric about the successful passage of the first major tax reform in 31 years, Democrats once supported the notion of tax cuts. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy said, ""Every dollar released from taxation that is spent or invested will help create a new job and a new salary. And these new jobs and new salaries can create other jobs and other salaries and more customers and more growth for an expanding American economy."" How right President Kennedy was. Sadly, not a single Democrat supported historic tax reform expected to be signed into law by the President in early January. I was proud to fulfill our promise to provide pro-growth tax reform. As President Ronald Reagan once said, Lower tax rates mean greater freedom, and whenever we lower the tax rates, our entire nation is better off.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399092,Herrera Beutler: Tax bill will help all in S.W. Washington,2017-12-24,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Its been 10 years since the start of the Great Recession where so many Americans lost jobs, savings and even their homes. While Wall Streets economy may have improved, when I talk to people, I ask them whether they feel recovered. Do you make enough money to cover your bills? Is there enough left over to put in savings? Are there other jobs out there offering you better pay? Usually, the answer is not even close. share: f t Its been 10 years since the start of the Great Recession where so many Americans lost jobs, savings and even their homes. While Wall Streets economy may have improved, when I talk to people, I ask them whether they feel recovered. Do you make enough money to cover your bills? Is there enough left over to put in savings? Are there other jobs out there offering you better pay? Usually, the answer is not even close.Southwest Washington residents deserve a real economic recovery that leaves them with more money in their pockets, bigger paychecks and better job opportunities. Fortunately, Congress just passed a tax cut and jobs bill that will help. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act reforms the tax code to allow the average family of four in our region to keep $2,385 more of what they earn. People across all income levels will benefit from this tax relief. Additionally, independent economic entities like the Tax Foundation verify that reforming our broken, overly complex tax code will lead to more jobs and bigger paychecks. How? By empowering small businesses which create two out of every three new jobs in Southwest Washington to grow their operations. The tax bill lowers small-business taxes, specifically incentivizing them to invest in new equipment and skills training. For instance, craft breweries will have their excise tax cut in half. Businesses that make and keep more profits usually expand, and require more workers to help. Corporate tax reform will help, too. This is hardly a conservative Republican idea; Presidents Clinton and Obama regularly promoted corporate tax cuts, recognizing that the U.S. has the highest corporate tax rate in the world. Liberal countries like Germany and Sweden have recently cut their corporate tax rates to spur economic growth. Businesses small and big represent jobs and paychecks. When whole industries succeed, they offer better wages to compete for employees. The final version of the bill we passed this week made several improvements to the original bill to protect hardworking individuals. Homeowners are better protected now that $750,000 in mortgage interest deductions is preserved. We expanded the medical expense deduction. The child tax credit is doubled to $2,000, with $1,400 being refundable. State and local taxes of all types are deductible up to $10,000. And graduate students preparing to begin their careers will have tuition exempted from taxes. Falsehoods swirling There were many fighting to maintain the status quo, some attacking this initiative before there was even a bill. Some are more interested in scoring political points than in actual solutions. Others profit from the complex maze of our current, outdated tax code. Whatever the underlying motivation, falsehoods about this bill are swirling. You deserve the truth. One of the most irresponsible claims is that this bill will cut Social Security or Medicare. These types of attacks seek to create fear among some of our most vulnerable citizens our seniors. Here are the facts: nothing in this bill touches Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. Congress wont cut those programs to finance tax cuts. Speaker Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell issued a formal statement on Dec. 1 opposing any such cuts and mapping out a strategy to protect Social Security and Medicare. I believe Congress should protect and strengthen these trust funds that people pay into their entire working lives, and would oppose any attempt to weaken them. Families shouldnt have to live paycheck to paycheck because true economic recovery never arrived. A decade is too long to have stagnant wages and people stuck in low-paying or part-time jobs when they want to move upward and earn more. Critics of this tax-cut plan seem to believe that our present recovery is good enough, but I dont accept that. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help residents of Southwest Washington earn more money and live with the economic security they deserve.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399091,Jaime Herrera Beutler Votes to Extend Funding for Vital Childrens Health Insurance Program,2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler voted to extend funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a provision that was included in a stopgap spending bill the U.S. House passed today. The funding provides $2.8 billion for CHIP to operate through the end of March so every state, including Washington, can continue to provide vital care to low-income children without disruption. share: f t U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler voted to extend funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a provision that was included in a stopgap spending bill the U.S. House passed today. The funding provides $2.8 billion for CHIP to operate through the end of March so every state, including Washington, can continue to provide vital care to low-income children without disruption. Last month, Jaime voted in support of a bill that passed the U.S. House to reauthorize CHIP funding for five years, but that bill stalled in the U.S. Senate. The short-term spending bill the House passed today will now head to the Senate for a vote. While I fought to include a longer-term fix for the Childrens Health Insurance Program similar to the five-year extension I helped the U.S. House pass in November, the three-month funding patch I supported today will ensure the health care of nine million vulnerable children who rely on CHIP doesnt lapse, said Jaime. Providing quality care for low-income children has always been a top priority of mine and I wont let up in my efforts to extend CHIP long-term so that their health isnt jeopardized. This spending bill also extends funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and Community Health Centers, such as the Cowlitz Family Health Center, Valley View Health Centers, and SeaMar Clinicsthrough March. Background: FQHC are community-based health care providers that provide vital primary care services in underserved areas.They offer low-cost health care options to individuals who are uninsured, on Medicaid, or have private insurance. While nearly 30 million kids get their care through Medicaid, roughly nine million low-income kids get their care through CHIP. Kids enrolled in CHIP are in families with incomes just above the threshold for qualifying for Medicaid, but that have low enough incomes that purchasing healthcare is a financial challenge. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-house-vote-keep-government-open,"Reichert, House Vote to Keep Government Open",2017-12-21,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Today, the House passed a continuing resolution (H.R. 1370) to extend funding to keep critical government programs fully operational through January 19, 2018 and avert a government shutdown. Today, I voted to keep the government open as Congress continues to craft a long-term solution to government spending, said Rep. Reichert. While this discussion is vitally important, it must not come at the expense of critical programs that provide for our national defense, veterans, children, and Americans across the country. In particular, as Co-Chair of the Childrens Health Care Caucus, I am pleased that we provided additional funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Community Health Centers. We cannot allow a shutdown of programs on which so many rely while we determine a longer-path forward. Todays bill includes funding for all government programs through January 19, 2018 in addition to supplemental funds for missile defense and vital Navy ship repairs. In addition, the bill provides additional funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Community Health Centers through March 31, 2018. The bill also extends Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) authorities to January 19thand provides additional funding for the Veterans Choice Program. Importantly, the bill includes a waiver to the Pay-Go requirements for the tax bill that passed Congress. This means the Pay-Go rules automatic spending cuts will not occur.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399090,Pacific County deserves better healthcare options,2017-12-20,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Beginning Jan. 1, residents of Southern Pacific County enrolled in Premera health insurance plans will face a healthcare crisis. share: f t Beginning Jan. 1, residents of Southern Pacific County enrolled in Premera health insurance plans will face a healthcare crisis. In 2018, residents here will no longer have access to essential health care services in nearby Oregon towns. Instead, if youre a Premera customer in Ilwaco, youll face a 67-mile one-way drive into Longview to see a cardiologist; a 70-mile drive to Aberdeen for a pediatrician or to deliver a baby; or that same 70 miles to see a psychologist. These plans are wholly inadequate to offer people the health services they need, yet they were approved by Washingtons insurance commissioner. Its well established that even when individuals have insurance, geographic barriers prevent folks from receiving potentially lifesaving healthcare. For individuals with a limited income, children, a job, or a disability, a 90-minute trip just to reach an appointment may force them to postpone a cervical cancer screening, avoid regular mental health treatment, or skip a diabetes checkup. With winter approaching, those trips become even more difficult. How did we get here? Unfortunately, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) rural residents have seen healthcare options dwindle while premiums and costs continue to climb. The looming crisis for Premera customers in Pacific County began when Premera filed its plans and the restricted networks they now offer with Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidlers office in the spring of 2016. Staunch defenders of the ACA often point to the election of President Trump or congressional efforts to replace the law as the causes but these explanations dont reflect the facts. When Premera filed these plans, the 2016 presidential campaign was still under way, and President Obama was still in office vetoing any attempt to alter the ACA. And the crisis continues to play out throughout rural America. In rural Klickitat County earlier this year, it took an 11th-hour scramble by Commissioner Kreidler to fix an issue where residents had zero health insurance options. On Dec. 6, I sent a letter to Commissioner Kreidler highlighting this crisis and urgently requested he work with insurance companies to restore timely access to care in Pacific County. There are some small signs of encouragement since that letter was sent. Premera has let us know that it offers a benefit level exception that requires action on the part of enrollees. That means if you have to travel farther than a set distance for certain types of care, lack your own vehicle, or meet a few other exceptions, you may be able to qualify to see doctors closer to home in 2018 at in-network prices. To find out the details of those exceptions, people should call Premera at 1-888-742-1479. This is certainly not a long-term fix. Rural residents deserve better than to be treated as second-class citizens, and I urge Commissioner Kreidler to work with insurance companies to restore reasonable health care options to Pacific County quickly. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Battle Ground, is the congresswoman representing the Third Congressional District in Southwest Washington. -Chinook Observer",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399088,"Jaime Herrera Beutler Supports Tax Cuts for Middle-Income Southwest Washington Families; Boost to Economy, Paychecks, Jobs",2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler supported the final tax cut bill expected to be signed into law this week that will allow Southwest Washington residents to keep more of their money and earn bigger paychecks. share: f t Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler supported the final tax cut bill expected to be signed into law this week that will allow Southwest Washington residents to keep more of their money and earn bigger paychecks. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act approved by the U.S. House today represents a compromise between the U.S. House- and Senate-passed tax cut bills.The U.S. Senate is expected to pass the bill this evening and send it to the Presidents desk. Once this tax cut bill is signed into law, the average Southwest Washington family of four will keep $2,385 more of what they earn, said Jaime. The bill we passed today improves on the earlier version I voted for in several measurable ways for folks in all phases of life from those preparing to begin their careers, to those in retirement. It protects virtually every middle-class homeowner by raising the mortgage interest deduction to $750,000, it expands vital relief for those families with high medical expenses, it doubles the child tax credit, and reinstates protection for all state and local taxes up to $10,000.Im pleased that graduate students preparing to enter the workforce will have reduced tuition exempted from taxes another improvement from our earlier bill. For those planning for retirement, popular savings accounts such as IRAs and 401(k)s are preserved, and relief from the death tax that inhibits passing small family businesses and farms to the next generation is doubled.For the 75 percent of Southwest Washington taxpayers who use standard deduction, they will now see nearly double the amount of their money protected from taxes, and even more taxpayers will now be able to take advantage of the standard deduction. Importantly, this bill will boost the economy in a manner that will provide tangible benefits to hardworking folks from Bucoda to Vancouver, from bigger paychecks to more job opportunities. We read about the recovery from the great recession that may be benefitting Wall Street, but hasnt boosted workers take-home pay or helped enough of the families continuing to live paycheck to paycheck. The critics of this tax cut plan seem to concede that our present recovery is good enough, but I dont accept that.Today I am taking action to jumpstart the real economic recovery that will help residents of Southwest Washington earn more money and live a more economically secure life. Wins for Southwest Washington: MORE MONEY IN YOUR POCKET: Significantly increases the standard deduction so more of what you earn $12,000 for individuals and $24,000 for married couples is tax free. SAVINGS: An average family of four in Southwest Washington making the median salary of $83,874 (according to IRS data), will save $2,385 (according to calculations by Ways & Means Committee) PRESERVES STATE AND LOCAL TAXES: Allows people to continue to write off the cost of state and local taxes up to $10,000 DOUBLES CHILD TAX CREDIT to $2,000 from $1,000 PRESERVES THE HOME MORTGAGE INTEREST DEDUCTION: Providing tax relief to current and aspiring homeowners. For all homeowners with existing mortgages that were taken out to buy a home, there will be no change to the current mortgage interest deduction; for homeowners with new mortgages on a first or second home, the home mortgage interest deduction will be available up to $750,000. EXPANDS THE MEDICAL EXPENSE DEDUCTION: Provides relief for Southwest Washingtonians with expensive medical bills by expanding the medical expense deduction for 2017 and 2018 for medical expenses exceeding 7.5% of adjusted gross income, and rising to 10% beginning in 2019. LOWERS INDIVIDUAL TAX RATES FOR LOW- AND MIDDLE-INCOME AMERICANS: Lowers individual taxes and sets the rates at 0%, 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%so people can keep more of the money they earn throughout their lives PRESERVES THE CHILD AND DEPENDENT CARE TAX CREDIT: Helping families care for their children and older dependents PRESERVES ADOPTION TAX CREDIT ELIMINATES AFFORDABLE CARE ACT PENALTY: In June, Klickitat County residents were nearly double-slammed by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) when there were no health insurers offering plans in that county a continued trend of dwindling health care options in rural areas and as a result, residents would have been forced to pay the $695 individual mandate penalty for not purchasing health care. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act eliminates the ACAs individual mandate penalty. LOWERS CORPORATE TAX CREDIT to 21% down from 35%, the current U.S. rate is the highest in the industrialized world GOOD FOR BUSINESSES: Prevents American jobs, headquarters, and research from moving overseas by eliminating incentives that now reward companies for shifting jobs, profits, and manufacturing plants abroad GOOD FOR SMALL & MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES: Offering a first-ever 20% tax deduction that applies to the first $315,000 of joint income earned by all businesses organized as S corporations, partnerships, LLCs, and sole proprietorships. For Main Street job creators with income above this level, the bill generally provides a deduction for up to 20% on business profits reducing their effective marginal tax rate to no more than 29.6%. Allows businesses to immediately write off the full cost of new equipment to improve operations and enhance the skills of their workers unleashing growth of jobs, productivity, and paychecks Small breweries get relief: Craft breweries in Southwest Washington will save thousands of dollars annually with the passage of our tax cuts bill today. Jaime cosponsored the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act which reduces the federal excise tax brewers pay from $7 per 31-gallon barrel to $3.50. BIGGER PAYCHECKS: Middle-income families in Southwest Washington will see on average $773 more in their paychecks due to economic growth (independent Tax Foundation) ECONOMIC GROWTH: The independent Tax Foundation projects well see a 1.7% increase in the long-run GDP from these tax cuts, adding substantial revenue and making America competitive globally. Charge vs. Fact in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Charge 1: This bill will cut Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid. FACT: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act doesnt touch Medicare, Social Security or Medicaid. Social Security and Medicare are trust funds that people spend their working lives paying into so that they have these vital lifelines when they retire. Many critics of the tax cuts bill insist that congressional leadership will cut Social Security and Medicare as a result of the tax cut bill, but on December 1, House Speaker Ryan and Senate Leader McConnell issued a formal statement pledging to protect these trust funds. Jaime has pledged and voted to protect and strengthen Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid and reaffirms that pledge with the passage of this tax cut bill. Charge 2: This is fiscally irresponsible and will add more than a trillion dollars to our deficit. FACT: The independent Tax Foundation estimates well see a 1.7% GDP increase over the long term, a 1.5% increase in wages, and an additional $1 trillion in federal revenues from economic growth as a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Additionally, this bill eliminates billions of dollars in special interest loopholes and tax breaks that have only benefited a narrow segment of wealthy individuals, or that have stifled economic growth. By eliminating these breaks, by incentivizing small and large employers to invest more in their operations, and by lowering the overall tax burden on these employers, private sector businesses will grow and increase revenue, paychecks will grow, and more people will be employed contributing the necessary revenue to fund these tax cuts. This method of calculating what a bill will cost and how its paid for accounting for a larger, more robust economy -- is referred to as dynamic scoring, which the non-partisan Joint Committee on Taxation has utilized since 2003. Charge 3: This bill is a tax increase on the middle class. FACT: All taxpayers will receive a tax cut and see more money added to their paychecks as a result of these tax cuts. The false attack about this bill harming the middle-class was being spread before the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was even released.In its Four Pinocchio rebuke (out of four possible Pinocchios rated a Whopper) of the claim that most middle class families would have their taxes increased, the Washington Post fact-checker wrote: In their haste to condemn the GOP tax plan, Democrats have spread far and wide the false claim that families making less than $86,100 on average will face a hefty tax hike. Actually, its the opposite. Most families in that income range would get a tax cut. Charge 4: This is simply a giveaway to big corporations at the expense of Main Street businesses. FACT: Main Street businesses stand to gain substantially from Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in Southwest Washington. This bill will deliver a first-ever 20% tax deduction that applies to the first $315,000 of joint income earned by all businesses organized as S corporations, partnerships, LLCs, and sole proprietorships. Small breweries get relief: Craft breweries in Southwest Washington will save thousands of dollars annually with the passage of our tax cuts bill today. Jaime cosponsored the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act which reduces the federal excise tax brewers pay from $7 per 31-gallon barrel to $3.50. Other pieces of the bill that will benefit small businesses: Small businesses will be able to write off the full cost of new equipment. Small businesses will be able to write off the interest on loans used to start or grow operations and hire more workers. Provides immediate relief from the Death Tax by doubling the amount of the current exemption to reduce uncertainty and costs for many family-owned farms and businesses",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-statement-house-passes-tax-cuts-jobs-act/,McMorris Rodgers Statement as House Passes Tax Cuts & Jobs Act,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 19, 2017) Minutes ago, the House passed the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act(H.R. 1) to provide tax relief to families in Eastern Washington and across the country. Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) took to Facebook Live to discuss the importance of this bill and the benefit it will bring to hardworking families around the country. In case you missed it, you can see herstatement here: For people in Eastern Washington, I often hear families and individuals say that they feel like they are working harder and harder but falling behind, said McMorris Rodgers. Im excited about what the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act means for them. This evening, the Senate will take up this legislation for consideration. You can find details about the Congresswomans priorities for the final version of theTax Cuts & Jobs Act here, and go to Fairandsimple.GOP for resources on tax reform and what it means for the American people. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reducing-tax-burden-american-families,Reducing the Tax Burden on American Families,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after voting in favor ofthe House and Senate conference report on The Tax Cut and Jobs Act, which provides the first major reform to the federal tax code in 31 years: As Republicans, we promised a unified plan to reduce the burden of taxes and government mandates on American families and businesses, and that is exactly what we have delivered, said Rep. Newhouse. Today, we passed the first major pro-growth, pro-family tax reform in 31 years. Doubling the standard deductionwhich is used by eighty percent of filers in the Fourth Congressional Districtand increasing the child tax credit will provide real relief for working families in Central Washington. Additionally, this bill is a win for small businesses and farmers by allowing them to immediately write off the full cost of new equipment and increasing those who are shielded from the unfair death tax which allows more family farms and small businesses to pass on the success of a lifetime of hard work to the next generation. We promised to remove the individual mandate, which is an unfair tax penalty that hits middle-income families in the Fourth District. With this major reform, that Obama-era burden will be removed once and for all. WATCH: Rep. Newhouse Q&A with House Ways and Means Chairman on How Tax Reform Legislation Affects Central Washington In Washington State, 88% of taxpayers who pay the Obamacare individual mandate penalty tax make $75,000 or less: Click to see the percentage of taxpayers who pay Obamacares individual mandate penalty tax in each county in the Fourth Congressional District: Adams, Benton, Douglas, Franklin, Grant, Okanogan, Walla Walla, Yakima. Click here for recent tax return information, including the average itemized deductions of filers, in Adams, Benton, Douglas, Franklin, Grant, Okanogan, Walla Walla, and Yakima counties. Congressional district tax return data available here. According to the House Committee on Ways and Means, a median income married-couple with 2 children in the Fourth Congressional District will receive a tax cut of $2,043. Fast facts on The Tax Cut and Jobs Act: Lowers individual tax rates for Americans to zero, 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37%so people can keep more of the money they earn. Significantly increases the standard deductionto protect roughly double the amount of what Americans earn each year from taxes from $6,350 to $12,000 and $12,000 to $24,000 for individuals and married couples, respectively. Expands Child Tax Creditfrom $1,000 to $2,000 for single filers and married couples to help parents with the cost of raising children. The tax credit is fully refundable up to $1,400 and begins to phase out for families making over $400,000. Additionally, a credit of $500 will be available for families who are taking care of a non-child dependent such as a disabled grandparent who may need additional support. Preserves the Adoption Tax Credit. Preserves the home mortgage interest deductionfor existing mortgages and maintains the home mortgage interest deduction for newly purchased homes up to $750,000 providing tax relief to current and aspiring homeowners. Continues to allow Americans to write off cost of state and local property taxes up to $10,000. According to the Internal Revenue Service data, in 2014, 80.4% of residents of the Fourth Congressional District claimed the standard deduction when filing. Provides relief for Americans with expensive medical bills by expanding the medical expense deduction for 2017 and 2018 for medical expenses exceeding 7.5% of adjusted gross income, and rising to 10% beginning in 2019. Eliminates Obamacares individual mandate penalty tax. Provides support for graduate students by continuing to exempt the value of reduced tuition from taxes and the interest paid on student loans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/historic-day-house-passes-tax-reform,A Historic Day - House Passes Tax Reform,2017-12-19,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today the House passed by a vote of 227-203 the final version of H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. With passage in the Senate, this legislation will be sent to the Presidents desk for a signature. Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) released this statement following final passage. Today is truly historic, Rep. Reichert said. We accomplished something that has not been successfully done since 1986. We passed a tax bill to make our tax code work for the American people. It puts more money in your pocket through lower tax rates and an increased standard deduction. To grow wages and jobs here at home, we provide tax relief for businesses big and small.While I know these provisions will benefit the American people, I am deeply disappointed that this Conference report rejected my request to remove drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from the bill. Through my years on the Ways and Means Committee, I have consistently evaluated each tax proposal on what it would mean for families and for our economic growth. I am proud to support this bill because it passes this test and I look forward to seeing America better off for it. The final text of H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act can be found HERE. Policy highlights of the bill can be found HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-listen-local-voices-preserving-dams,COLUMN: Listen to Local Voices on Preserving Dams,2017-12-18,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"Even well-intentioned crusades in the name of the environment can cause real economic consequences for communities on our side of the Cascade divide. I was disappointed that Governor Jay Inslee recently chose to side with west-side interest groups that are seeking to increase spill or even breach the federal dams on the lower Snake River. Our Mid-Columbia communities would pay the price. The stakes for our region are too high for preserving the dams on the Columbia and the Snake rivers to be approached in a partisan way. In response to a federal judges misguided order in 2016 that threatens our dams, I joined my congressional colleagues in the Pacific Northwest earlier this year to introduce bipartisan legislation, H.R. 3144. Our bill would preserve the 2014 Federal Columbia River Power System Biological Opinion (BiOp), negotiated under the Obama administration, until 2022, which would prevent the breaching of our dams. Dont just take my word for it: Stakeholders and residents in central Washington are raising their voice after the Governor announced his opposition to our legislation: Eastern WA irrigation farmers are discouraged by the direction that the Governor is taking with the dam issue. Our congressional representatives see the need for the dams to stay in place, and their position is not political; it is based on actual facts in regards to hydropower, flood control, and irrigationwhich are reflected in the current BiOp.My fourth, fifth, and sixth-generation family farm will not survive another generation without these dams. If the farms fail, so will our communities. I encourage the Governor to help us do what is best for our state and allow the dams to continue to do the job they were originally intended to do and support what is right for Washington state. Michele Kiesz, Farmer, Ritzville I am disappointed in the position taken by the Governor. It is obvious to me that he is being influenced by west side special interests. Its too bad he has failed to grasp the importance of hydropower in the Pacific Northwest, nor has he acquired an understanding of the intricacies of fish passage through the Columbia-Snake River system. If he did have an understanding of fish passage at the hydroelectric projects, he wouldnt be quoting special interest groups in his comments which reek of political bias. Jack W. Heffling, President, United Power Trades Organization, Richland ""We strongly disagree with the Governor's perspective on this bill and intend to discuss with the Governor's staff the importance of the legislation to the region. This legislation provides relief to the endless litigation of federal hydro system operations by directing the federal agencies to implement the current BiOp as adopted in 2014. The current BiOp is based on the best available science, has been vetted by stakeholders and was formally approved by the Obama administration. Implementation of the BiOp has successfully increased salmon runs due to operational requirements within, and the installation of new fish passage technologies. Ron Skagen, President of Washington Public Utility District Association, East Wenatchee I represent residents in the Fourth Congressional District who will face the consequences of increasing spill or breaching dams in the real terms of higher electricity rates, flood control, and reduced access to water for irrigating crops that underpin local agricultural economies. Our regions dams are major sources of clean, renewable power; reducing their capacity would be counterproductive. It is time for the west side to listen to our voices and protect our dams.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399087,"Reps. Herrera Beutler, Kilmer Introduce Legislation to Extend Vital Protection of Fishing Boats, Small Vessels from Overly-Broad Discharge Rule",2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) introduced legislation yesterday to extend an exemption for fishing boats and small vessels from EPA incidental discharge regulations so they can continue to operate without facing financial costs and delays. share: f t U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) introduced legislation yesterday to extend an exemption for fishing boats and small vessels from EPA incidental discharge regulations so they can continue to operate without facing financial costs and delays.Their bill, Fishing and Small Vessel Relief Act, extends the current exemption by three years, relieving small boats under 79 feet from EPAs vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements. This protection has long-standing bipartisan support, and Sen. Maria Cantwell has introduced a companion bill in the U.S. Senate. Science has shown that incidental discharge from small fishing boats and other undersized vessels those under 79 feet do not present significant environmental risks. These boats have been given an exemption from EPA-mandated vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements. Unfortunately, that exemption is set to expire on December 18, which would leave fishermen and small vessels at sudden risk of being in violation of a federal rule from which they've long been exempted. Fishermen, shellfish growers and small vessel operators are key economic contributors to our Pacific County communities; their livelihoods represent thousands of paychecks, Herrera Beutler said. These requirements were only ever meant for larger vessels, but if Congress doesn't act soon, the small boats will take a serious hit. I'm hopeful this bipartisan solution will be included in any end-of-year legislation to give our fishing businesses relief and certainty. This is a commonsense solution to shield our small business owners from a regulation that was not intended to target them, Kilmer said. Congress should act now to fix the problem so that our fishermen and shellfish growers have the certainty they need to keep their operations afloat. Their bill would provide continued relief to all vessels under 79 feet including commercial fishing boats, tugboats, tour boats, research boats, towboats, and offshore supply boats.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-statement-tax-cuts-jobs-act-conference-report/,McMorris Rodgers Statement on the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act Conference Report,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 15, 2017) Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the House-Senate conference committee released the conference report for the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act (H.R. 1). At every step in this process, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has been written to improve the lives of everyday Americans and their families by creating more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks. With this pro-economic growth and pro-family tax plan, we are significantly increasing the standard deduction, lowering rates across the board, and making it easier for everyone to file their taxes. In fact, the average family of four making $73,000 a year will receive a tax cut of more than $2,000. Im also proud to say this plan carries on the legacy of the ABLE Act with my legislation to help families with children with disabilities. It allows families to roll over funds from a 529 college saving account to an ABLE account so they can pay medical bills and other living expenses. It also includes the ABLE to Work Act that would allow individuals to save more of their own money so they can explore the workforce and find a good-paying job. I would like to congratulate the House and Senate conferees and thank them for their hard work. I am particularly pleased that they came together on solutions to protect the tax exempt status of graduate student tuition waivers and Private Activity Bonds to fund the construction of low-income housing units. Americans sent us here to do big things, and overhauling our broken tax code for the first time in 31 years is at the top the list. This is our once-in-a-generation chance to change the status quo and help everyone reach their full potential in a stronger economy with more opportunities to succeed. I look forward to sending this bill to the Presidents desk by Christmas. You can view the full conference report here. NOTE: During the conference committee process, the Congresswoman repeated her priorities for the final bill including protecting the tax exemptstatus of graduate student tuition waivers and private activity bonds used to fund the constructionof low-income housing. Both of these priorities are reflected in the conference report. Key provisions from the Congresswomans ABLE 2.0 legislative package are also included in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act conference report, including the ABLE to Work Act and the ABLE Financial Planning Act. ABLE to Work Act: This legislation would allow an ABLE beneficiary who earns income for a job to save up to the Federal Poverty Level, which is currently at $11,770, in addition to their annual contribution limit of $14,000. This is targeted to assist only those disabled individuals who cannot contribute to an employer retirement saving plan. ABLE Financial Planning Act: This legislation allows for rollovers from a 529 to a 529A account, but still maintains the annual contribution limit of $14,000. This would allow individuals who may have been saving for their childs college tuition, which is now no longer needed, to rollover up to the maximum contribution each year until the 529 account has been depleted. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-conference-committee-report-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act,Reichert Statement on Conference Committee Report on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,2017-12-15,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) released this statement following the release of the Conference Committee's Report on H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. With todays release of the final tax bill, we are moving closer to reforming our tax code for the benefit of the American people,"" said Rep. Reichert. ""As I review this bill, I will continue to hold it to the standards I have considered throughout this process.The final result must create jobs in America, increase paychecks, and put more money in the pockets of hard working Americans. While we have made important improvements to the tax provisions of the bill for American families along the way,I am deeply disappointed the Conference Committee rejected my request to remove language that opensthe Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to drilling.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-statement-fcc-net-neutrality-vote/,McMorris Rodgers Statement on FCC Net Neutrality Vote,2017-12-14,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 14, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the Federal Communication Commission’s vote to roll back heavy-handed Title II regulations put into place by the Obama administration. “I support an open Internet, but there is a better way to ensure consumer protections without disrupting the free flow of information and innovation that has made it a cornerstone of the 21st Century economy,” said McMorris Rodgers. “The heavy-handed rules from the Obama administration stifled investment in rural communities, like those in Eastern Washington, and created uncertainty for ISPs in meeting the requirements of those rules. What I want is for everyone to come to the table to find a bipartisan, legislative solution that will protect consumers while not harming investment, innovation, and free-market principles.” NOTE: The Obama-era rules reclassified Internet governance as a utility according to a 1934 statute. The vote today by the FCC will return Internet governance to the way it was prior to 2015, under which the Internet grew and expanded and became what it is today. In a recent letter from 63 small broadband providers around the country, they said: “Since the Commission reclassified broadband as a public utility in 2015, investment has been heading in the wrong direction.” The Obama-era rules created significant regulatory uncertainty for the companies deploying and maintaining broadband networks. In fact, when asked by members of Congress, former FCC Chairman Wheeler could not clearly identify what a violation of the rule’s general conduct standard would be. This uncertainty resulted in less consumer choice, less innovation, and less broadband development. According to a recent economic analysis, domestic broadband capital expansion declined by $3.6 billion in the years since these heavy-handed regulations were implemented, a 5.6 percent decline relative to 2014 levels.   # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-fcc-net-neutrality-vote,Reichert Statement on FCC Net Neutrality Vote,2017-12-14,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reichert Statement on FCC Net Neutrality Vote Dec 14, 2017 Washington, DC - Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) vote on net neutrality this afternoon. ""While we share the goal of maintaining an open Internet, I am concerned about the FCC’s decision to eliminate the bright-line rules that have prohibited the blocking of legal content, slowing down of services, and the creation of paid fast lanes,"" said Rep. Reichert. ""These net neutrality principles have helped to keep the Internet a source of communication, creativity, learning, and job creation for every American. Congress should work on a bipartisan basis to ensure the Internet remains open, free from interference, and a source of innovation.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kennewick-students-win-congressional-app-design-challenge,Kennewick Students Win Congressional App-Design Challenge,2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced the winners of the Fourth Congressional District’s App Challenge, an app competition for K-12 students. Three Kennewick high school students of Tri-Tech Skills Center: Seth Florman, Damon Fuller, and Kyler Zimmerman, have been named the competition winners for their app named “Powerhouse,” which enables the user to take on the role of business owner of an energy company. These young men designed the app to illustrate an energy company’s responsibilities to communities and to draw attention to the challenges energy providers face when balancing production, operating expenses, and environmental decisions. You can see a preview of the app by clicking here. WATCH Rep. Newhouse speak on the floor of the U.S. House to congratulate the winners. Transcript of Rep. Newhouse’s remarks: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize three high school students from Kennewick, Washington as the winners of Washington’s Fourth District’s 2017 Congressional App Challenge. Seth Florman, Damon Fuller, and Kyler Zimmerman spent many hours creating and refining an app they named Powerhouse, which enables the user to take on the role of business owner of an energy company. These students designed the app to illustrate an energy company’s responsibilities to communities and to draw attention to the challenges energy providers face. Thank you to our panel of judges and to the engineers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory who will be providing the winners with a tour of their great facility. The Congressional App Challenge highlights the value of computer science and coding, and I am proud to represent Central Washington, where schools and teachers are dedicated to encouraging students to excel in STEM education. This year, the Fourth Congressional District’s App Challenge had the highest number of entries since my office began participating in the contest, which is a testament to the creativity of our young people. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Seth, Damon, and Kyler on their winning app, Powerhouse, and I look forward to their continued educational and professional success. Background: The winning app was selected by a panel of local judges and will receive a prize tour of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The winners will also share $250 in Amazon Web Services credits donated by Amazon for the challenge. The winning app will be featured on a video display in the U.S. Capitol building, as well as House.gov and the Congressional App Challenge website. The second place app, “Alone in the Forest,” was designed by Evan Fetterolf of Kennewick, Washington and Carlos Magana of Plymouth, Washington. The app teaches the user basic survival skills through a series of games. The third place app, “Hive Mind,” was designed by Talia Avery of Richland, Washington and William Burton of Kennewick, Washington. The app challenges the user to manage a beehive and demonstrate the challenges beekeepers face on a daily basis.  The Congressional App Challenge (CAC) was created because Congress recognized that Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education skills are essential for economic growth and innovation, and that the U.S. has been falling behind on these fronts. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, STEM occupations are projected to grow by 17% between 2008 and 2018, compared to 9.8% growth for non-STEM occupations. According to some estimates, the U.S. may be short as many as 3 million high-skilled workers by 2018. To maintain American competitiveness, it is crucial that the U.S. industry invest in our youth now and help them acquire necessary STEM-based skills. The CAC highlights and encourages students to pursue those skills. Last year’s Fourth District App Challenge winners, Tobias (Toby) Williams, Jamas Middleton, and Elijah Stiham, were also students at Tri-Tech Skills Center and won the Challenge for the app they designed called Trinity Complex.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-lays-wreath-tomb-unknown-soldier,Newhouse Lays Wreath at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,2017-12-13,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) today laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families. “The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery is hallowed ground,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The Old Guard keeps 24-hour vigil over the site, 365 days per year to honor all American service members who have fallen but who have not been identified. I was honored to lay a wreath today on behalf of the people of the Fourth Congressional District. Especially during this holiday season, we pay our respects and demonstrate that we never forget the heroes who have fallen in defense of our nation.” Click here for more information on Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Click here for high resolution photos.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-let-wish-friends-happy-hanukkah/,McMorris Rodgers: “Let me wish all my friends a most Happy Hanukkah!”,2017-12-12,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 12, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today released the following statement at the start of Hanukkah: “Let me wish all my friends a most Happy Hanukkah! “The Festival of Lights comes each year as winter’s dark days are closing in on us. Now is the time to gather family close, feast on latkes, play dreidel, and light the candles. “History teaches us that in 200 B.C.E. the Maccabees rebelled when King Antiochus banned Jewish worship in Jerusalem, the capital city where the holy Temple was built. This year, we can celebrate a little extra, to be living in a country that is unafraid to say out loud what two thousand years of history has been unable to erase– that Jerusalem was and remains Israel’s capital! “We’re blessed to live in a country where our religious freedom is constitutionally guaranteed; where we see menorahs alongside Christmas trees. That liberty, which so many sacrifice to preserve, is something we must never take for granted. “The miracle of Hanukkah came when the lamps in the Temple shone for eight days – but that wasn’t possible until the people had the courage and determination to stand up for their freedom. So today, when you light the Hanukkah candles, may you bask in the warm glow of celebration with your family, and also remember the courage of the Maccabees for the example they set for generations to come. “Happy Hanukkah from my family to yours.”   # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-introduces-ensuring-patient-access-healthcare-records-act/,McMorris Rodgers Introduces Ensuring Patient Access to Healthcare Records Act,2017-12-11,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 11, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) introduced the bipartisan Ensuring Patient Access to Healthcare Records Act, which gives medical record clearinghouses the ability to provide patients with their own comprehensive healthcare records, and allows them to analyze claims data for the good of public health. “Even in the age of technology, it can be difficult for patients to obtain their comprehensive health records. Whether it’s because of a move to a new state, switching providers, an unexpected visit to the emergency room, or a new doctor, patients must track down their own records from numerous different sources based on what they can or cannot remember,” said McMorris Rodgers. “It shouldn’t be this burdensome. Our bill gives patients the ability to see a snapshot of their health records at just a simple request, allowing them to make better, more informed healthcare decisions in a timely manner.” NOTE: Each year, healthcare clearinghouses process hundreds of millions of transactions safely and securely from more than 5,000 hospitals, 900,000 doctors, 66,000 pharmacies and 20,000 labs across the country. These records include information about the provider, the diagnosis, and the treatment for each episode of care. Today, clearinghouses have the capability to link this data and build longitudinal health records to provide patients with a comprehensive health record. Clearinghouses can also analyze this data to provide real-world solutions to address important public policy goals through tracking patient outcomes and broad-based analysis of readmissions, comorbidities, and adverse outcomes across the entire continuum of service providers; near real-time tracking of significant disease outbreaks or epidemics; and improving and allowing for greater access to new drugs and therapies. Regrettably, clearinghouses are currently unable to offer this transformative service to patients and other stakeholders due to the administration’s rules implementing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). This legislation works to change that so patients all across Eastern Washington can have access to comprehensive medical records. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-jerusalem-capital-israel,"COLUMN: Jerusalem, Capital of Israel",2017-12-11,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"By the rivers of Babylonwe sat and wept when we remembered Zion.If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forgetits skill! The words of the psalmist in Psalm 137 evoke the longing that the Jewish people felt during their captivity in Babylon for the ancient city of Jerusalem, the site of the original Temple of Solomon. The historic and spiritual link between Jerusalem and Israel harkens back thousands of years to biblical times. It is the location of the Western Wall, the last remnant of the Second Temple and the holiest site in Judaism. Last week, President Trump announced that his administration would fulfill his promise to relocate the U.S. embassy in Israel from modern Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, officially acknowledging that the capital of our closest Middle East ally is indeed the ancient city. The Israeli legislature, supreme court, and executive branch are based in Jerusalem. The Presidents announced shift would begin to treat Israel the way we treat every other sovereign nation in relation to its official seat of government. President Trumps announcement seems at first glance to be a momentous step, but in reality it complies with longstanding U.S. foreign policy. Since 1995, when the Jerusalem Embassy Act passed on bipartisan votes of 93-5 in the Senate and 374-37 in the House, U.S. law has provided for the relocation of the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. Subsequent presidents of both parties have chosen to request waivers for the embassys relocation. President Trump has chosen to end that practice and finally implement this over-20-year-old law. The fulfilment of the longstanding U.S. promise to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem should not be used to negatively impact the peace process between Israelis and Palestinians. In no version of a peace agreement has Jerusalem not been recognized as Israels capital, so this recognition should not be considered a concession, nor should it in any way be considered a deal breaker in the peace process. The American people remember and respect Israels historic connection to Jerusalem. I applaud President Trumps decision to recognize the fact that Jerusalem has been and will continue to be Israels official capital.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-statement-renegotiation-columbia-river-treaty/,McMorris Rodgers Statement on Renegotiation of the Columbia River Treaty,2017-12-08,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 8, 2017) – Yesterday evening, the Department of State announced its intentions to move into renegotiations of the Columbia River Treaty beginning in early 2018. Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement in response: “The Columbia River Treaty and the relationship between the U.S. and Canada play an indispensable role in the livelihoods of those in the Pacific Northwest,” said McMorris Rodgers. “But we must move forward with renegotiations to ensure this agreement remains mutually-beneficial. I’ve had a number of conversations with Secretary Tillerson to urge the State Department to renegotiate, and I’m pleased to see that effort move forward. By addressing the ‘Canadian Entitlement’ and other issues we can form a treaty that will serve both nation’s for generations to come.” NOTE: The Congresswoman has played a major role in urging the past two administrations to reopen the conversation on the Columbia River Treaty. In February of 2016, her and Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR), as Co-Chairs of the Northwest Energy Caucus, wrote a letter to President Obama in which they said, “The agreement between Canada and the United States serves as a framework for the mutual benefit of both countries, providing low-cost hydropower generation, flood control, and economic growth.” In October of this year, the Congresswoman led a letter with a bipartisan group of Pacific Northwest Representatives to Ambassador David MacNaughton to urge renegotiation. The letter states, “The 1964 treaty has been in place for fifty-three years and has surpassed its balance. Specifically, there is an imbalance of benefits between our two nations in regards to the “Canadian Entitlement”, which requires Pacific Northwest electricity consumers to pay Canada for downstream power benefits. It is estimated that our constituents overpay this entitlement by ten times the reciprocal benefit.” Earlier this year, the Congresswoman also spoke directly to Secretary of State Rex Tillerson about the importance of renegotiation. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399084,Jaime Herrera Beutler Requests Relief for Pacific County Residents Who Will Lose Accessible Health Care Options in 2018,2017-12-07,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler urged Washington State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler this week to take immediate action to remedy the looming health care crisis many residents of Pacific County are facing due to a reduction in health care coverage. share: f t U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler urged Washington State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler this week to take immediate action to remedy the looming health care crisis many residents of Pacific County are facing due to a reduction in health care coverage.  Residents of rural Pacific County currently enrolled in Premera insurance plans – plans approved by the commissioner’s office – will no longer be able to access health care providers across the river in Oregon beginning January 1. Instead of a roughly 30-minute drive, they will have to travel nearly one and a half hours to receive critical health care from cardiologists, pediatricians, psychologists, or to deliver a baby. In a letter sent to the commissioner yesterday, Jaime expressed her concern for residents in rural counties and requested the commissioner work with health insurance companies to help individuals continue to have access to timely and adequate health care in 2019.  “It’s worth noting that these plans – and the restricted networks they now offer – were filed with your office in the spring of 2016,” Jaime wrote in her letter. “Any effort to shift the blame for these changes to the new presidential administration or congressional efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA) would not reflect the facts.” The full text of the letter follows and a PDF version is available here.   Dear Commissioner Kreidler,    I am writing today to express my deep concern over your approval of insurance plans that will require many residents of rural Pacific County to travel more than an hour and a half one-way to access essential services like maternity care, or see specialists such as pediatricians, cardiologists or psychologists.   Residents in the southern portion of rural Pacific County have long accessed primary care and specialty care providers across the river in nearby Oregon communities.  For the next month or so, these folks will still be able to drive 17 miles into nearby Astoria to see a pediatrician, or Obstetrician-Gynecologist for prenatal care and delivery of a baby, or to have their hearts checked. The trip, whether by private vehicle or public transit, can be made in about 30 minutes.  Due to the reduction in coverage approved by your office, this will change dramatically for these residents on January 1.   Beginning in January, residents of Ilwaco enrolled in Premera plans will no longer have access to any of these health care services in nearby Oregon towns.  Instead, they will face: • A 67 mile drive into Longview to see a cardiologist, which will require an hour and a half drive.   • A 70 mile one-way drive to Aberdeen to see a psychologist, when mental health services are currently available 30 miles away in Seaside.  • A 70 mile one-way drive to take a sick child to see a pediatrician in Aberdeen. • In order for pregnant women to receive prenatal care, and to deliver their baby, they will be forced to drive an hour and a half to Aberdeen.    It is well established that even when individuals have health insurance, barriers to accessing care still exist that often limit or prevent them from receiving the health care they need.  The geographic location of health care services can be a significant barrier.  For individuals who have children, a job, or a disability, a three hour trip for each appointment may be enough of a barrier to delay the care they need, such as cervical cancer screening, regular mental health treatment, a follow-up appointment for cardiovascular disease or a diabetes checkup.  And in winter months, snow- and ice-covered roads will add even more time to those trips.  Additionally, under the restricted access plans, low-income, elderly and disabled individuals living in southern Pacific County who rely on public transit could face a 10 hour trip from Ilwaco to Longview, and it is virtually impossible to even travel to Aberdeen and back in a single day via public transport.  Consequently, public transport will cease to be an option for most people who need this care.   It’s worth noting that these plans – and the restricted networks they now offer – were filed with your office in the spring of 2016. Any effort to shift the blame for these changes to the new presidential administration or congressional efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA) would not reflect the facts. As you know, Premera moved to narrow their networks to prevent access to healthcare providers in Oregon under the previous presidential administration and prior to the 2016 elections –and you approved it. While residents received a temporary reprieve due to Premera accessing LifeWise’s Oregon network temporarily, that arrangement will expire at the end of 2017.     As you know, cost can be another significant barrier for accessing care. Unfortunately, annual premiums have consistently increased on these plans – with the formal approval of your office – meaning that residents of Pacific County will pay more for this insurance coverage that places life-saving care nearly out of reach.     Since the ACA became the law of the land, insurance companies have been pulling out of rural counties while raising premiums significantly.  It took an 11th hour scramble from your office to make sure residents of Klickitat County had any health insurance options at all.  The unintended yet very real consequence of the ACA was that it has incentivized insurance companies to narrow the network of doctors and health care providers they offer to patients in an effort to drive down costs and increase profits.     It is the responsibility of the Insurance Commissioner to review insurance companies’ plans and ensure their networks of health providers are adequate.  Network adequacy standards exist to ensure insurance companies provide reasonable access to members for covered services they may need.  Otherwise, insurance companies could force enrollees to wait unacceptably long periods for an appointment or drive hundreds of miles to receive care.    America’s health care system should work for everyone, including those who live in rural areas.  Open enrollment began November 1, and people are now selecting their plans for 2018.  I urgently request that you take quick action to remedy the looming health care crisis that health care customers are facing in Pacific County.  I also urge you to work with health insurance companies to ensure residents in rural areas have timely and adequate access to healthcare providers in 2019.    Sincerely, Jaime Herrera Beutler",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399085,Reps. Herrera Beutler and DeFazio Applaud Unanimous ITC Vote to Protect U.S. Softwood Lumber Market,2017-12-07,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reps. Peter DeFazio (OR-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) today applauded the U.S. International Trade Commission’s (ITC) final 4-0 vote confirming that the U.S. softwood lumber industry is materially injured by unfairly subsidized Canadian imports. share: f t Reps. Peter DeFazio (OR-04) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) today applauded the U.S. International Trade Commission’s (ITC) final 4-0 vote confirming that the U.S. softwood lumber industry is materially injured by unfairly subsidized Canadian imports.  “Today’s announcement by the ITC is a clear sign that the U.S. is committed to protecting our timber jobs on the international stage,” said Reps. DeFazio and Herrera Beutler.  “The U.S. has repeatedly tried to settle this issue with Canada at the negotiating table, but once Canada refused to meet our reasonable demands, this was the only path available to protect U.S. interests.  We’re grateful to the Department of Commerce for their thorough investigation into this matter  and the ITC’s subsequent affirmative ruling, and will continue to work together to protect manufacturing jobs in the Pacific Northwest and throughout the United States.” Because of the difference in timber pricing and market structures between the two nations—most of the United States’ timberlands are privately owned, while the majority of Canadian timberlands are owned by the provincial government —the two nations have a long-standing series of trade agreements, or Softwood Lumber Agreements (SLA) between them. The United States and Canada have been trying to negotiate a new Softwood Lumber Agreement, but those talks fell through last month. Today’s ruling will activate final antidumping and countervailing duties on Canadian softwood lumber imports as determined by the Department of Commerce earlier this year. The application of these duties will provide much-needed relief to Oregon and Washington mills.  In November, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced its final determination that the Canadian government subsidizes lumber production and that exporters from Canada have sold softwood lumber to the U.S. at less than fair value, distorting the U.S. softwood lumber market and harming U.S. manufacturing jobs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-concealed-carry-reciprocity-act-vote,Reichert Statement on Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act Vote,2017-12-07,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on H.R. 38, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017. Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) released the following statement following the vote: “As the former Sheriff of King County and law enforcement officer for 33 years, I understand the importance of keeping guns out of the hands of those who seek to do harm. I voted to maintain Second Amendment rights and make critical improvements to our national background check system,” Rep. Reichert said. “Now, after passing a federal background check and meeting a state’s legal requirements for possessing a firearm, an individual will be able to carry their firearm in any state. This bill also makes much needed improvements to the FBI’s background check system through increased accountability with federal agencies, to ensure no individuals slip through the cracks.” Rep. Reichert has fought continuously throughout his career, from his time in law enforcement and now as a Member of Congress, to crack down on gun and gang-related violence, including supporting programs such as Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring program. These programs are often targeted for elimination or funding cuts during the appropriations process. Rep. Reichert has championed the Project Safe Neighborhoods program, a federal grant program to combat gang violence and gun-related crimes. In September, the House passed his amendment to increase funding for this program to $20 million for fiscal year 2018. In addition, the Department of Justice (DOJ) recently announced that PSN will be the centerpiece of their initiative to combat violent crime and gun violence. To support the COPS Hiring Program, as co-chair of the Law Enforcement Caucus, Rep. Reichert, along with his co-chair, Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ), sent a bipartisan letter to President Trump outlining the importance of the program. Rep. Reichert and Rep. Pascrell also sent a bipartisan letter to the Appropriations Committee this year encouraging them to include funding for the COPS Hiring Program. Over 180 other Members of Congress signed this letter as well in support of the program. Most recently, in September 2017, Rep. Reichert secured funding for the COPS Hiring Program on the House floor from Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee (CJS) Chairman John Culberson (R-TX) for Fiscal Year 2018. Chairman Culberson committed to securing this funding. Prior to the Congressman’s efforts, funding for the program had been completely eliminated.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399082,Jaime Herrera Beutler to Host Telephone Town Hall on December 12,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Jaime Herrera Beutler to Host Telephone Town Hall on December 12 f t # e Washington, D.C., December 6, 2017 U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler will be hosting a live telephone town hall on December 12 at 5:30pm Pacific Standard Time. All residents of Southwest Washington’s third congressional district are invited to join Jaime for a conversation about tax cuts, tolling and whatever else is on their mind. share: f t U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler will be hosting a live telephone town hall on December 12 at 5:30pm Pacific Standard Time. All residents of Southwest Washington’s third congressional district are invited to join Jaime for a conversation about tax cuts, tolling and whatever else is on their mind. Southwest Washington residents can sign up to receive a call to join the telephone town hall by visiting this link and entering their contact information. They can also contact Jaime’s Vancouver office to be placed on the call list by calling (360) 695-6292. Residents can also call in to join the telephone town hall at any point during the event by calling 1-877-229-8493 and using the passcode 116365. During the live telephone town hall, Jaime will be giving a brief update about her work in Congress, and then taking questions from participants. Event: Jaime Herrera Beutler telephone town hall Date: Tuesday, December 12, 2017 Time: 5:30-6:30pm PST How to participate: Sign up to participate by clicking this link, or calling Jaime’s Vancouver office at (360) 695-6292.   Residents can also join the telephone town hall by calling 1-877-229-8493 and using the passcode 116365 at any point during the event. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-urges-swift-daca-legislative-solution,Reichert Urges Swift DACA Legislative Solution,2017-12-06,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA), released the following statement after sending a letter to Congressional Leadership, urging the House of Representatives to take up a legislative solution to address the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program before the end of the year. “I am proud to join with my Republican colleagues to urge swift passage for a permanent legislative fix for the DACA program,” Rep. Reichert said. “It is essential that we find a solution before the end of the year. These children were brought to this great country by no fault of their own. It is not right to punish them for this - it is against the American DNA. This issue transcends politics. It is about these kids and the certainty they need to hope and dream for a brighter future. The clock is ticking. We must act now.” Rep. Reichert has been a strong advocate for protecting DACA recipients. This year alone, he has cosponsored several pieces of legislation and signed letters urging Congressional Leadership and the Administration to give DACA recipients certainty and the chance to remain in the country they know. Rep. Reichert is a cosponsor of the Bar Removal of Individuals who Dream and Grow our Economy (BRIDGE) Act, which allows individuals who meet the standards of the DACA program to remain in the U.S. without fear of deportation for three years while Congress works toward a more permanent solution. Additionally, he cosponsored the Recognizing America’s Children (RAC) Act – a proposed solution to the impending deadline that would give DACA participants a chance to earn legal status. Lastly, Rep. Reichert cosponsored the Encourage New Legalized Immigrants to Start Training (ENLIST) Act that allows undocumented immigrants who served in the Armed Forces to become lawful permanent residents and apply for citizenship.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/34-house-republicans-urge-daca-fix-end-year,34 House Republicans Urge DACA Fix Before End of Year,2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, 34 House Republicans, including several members of the Republican Main Street Caucus, sent a letter urging Speaker Paul Ryan to put a permanent solution for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives before the end of the year.  Although the current DACA program is set to expire in March, about 22,000 DACA individuals were unable to renew their status this year, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Without a replacement legislative solution, more than 700,000 young people face an uncertain future in the United States. The letter was led by Scott Taylor (R-Va.), Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.), and members of the Republican Main Street Caucus. Click here to view the letter. “This letter shows many Republicans are serious about finding a permanent solution to solving the DACA issue as President Trump has urged Congress to do,” said U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.), Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus. “However, we want to work with leadership to craft a solution that will pass, not play political games or hold government funding hostage like some of our Democrat counterparts. I appreciate the leadership of Main Street members Taylor, Newhouse, and Denham because it’s important we address this issue now, rather than later.” “Dreamers did what their government asked them to do. They came out of the shadows, paid a fee, passed a background check, and got a job or enrolled in school. They are making real contributions to the only country they have ever known to be home. Congress has an obligation to resolve this issue, and it needs to happen now,” said Rep. Jeff Denham (R-Calif.). “For thousands of DACA recipients across the nation, including 17,000 in my home state, every day without a legislative solution brings more uncertainty about their future. DACA recipients should not be a political football. Rather than delaying until next year or pushing unrealistic partisan legislation that has no hope of being signed into law by the president, the right thing to do is for Congress to come together on a deal to give these young people certainty,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Now is our time in Congress to lead with justice, mercy, and compassion for DACA recipients. We need to create, negotiate, and pass a law protecting those in this stateless limbo which should also contain disincentives to future illegal immigration and increased border security measures. There are DACA recipients who are as American as myself. Americans do not punish children for their parents' sins,” said Rep. Taylor.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-praises-interior-decision-maintain-hanford-reach-national,Newhouse Praises Interior Decision to Maintain Hanford Reach National Monument,2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after U.S. Secretary of U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke released the final report outlining recommendations he made to the President on some national monument designations under the Antiquities Act. “In June, I shared my concerns with Secretary Zinke and the administration that no modifications should be made to the Hanford Reach National Monument,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I am pleased that after today’s report by the Interior Department, this national treasure will continue to be open to public access for future generations to enjoy.” ""The monument review was about hearing local voices and the people of Washington, along with Rep. Newhouse, made it clear where they stand,” said Sec. Zinke. “I'm grateful for their continued participation in the review and look forward to visiting Washington again sometime soon."" Click here to view the June 30th letter sent to Secretary Zinke by the Congressional Western Caucus that includes Rep. Newhouse’s recommendation on the Hanford Reach National Monument. Background: President Clinton established the Hanford Reach National Monument in 2000, which includes the last free-flowing, non-tidal stretch of the Columbia River in the U.S., as well as a biologically diverse landscape and wide spectrum of scientific and historic objects. More than 10,000 years of human history are preserved throughout the monument and Hanford Reach is a treasure that merits the protection and preservation provided by its designation as a national monument. In July, Sec. Zinke announced that the protected status of the Hanford Reach National Monument was no longer under federal review, and that no alterations were to be made to the monument’s boundaries. The monuments were under review in accordance with President Donald J. Trump’s April 26, 2017, executive order.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-house-vote-go-conference-tax-bill,"Reichert, House Vote To Go To Conference On Tax Bill",2017-12-05,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to send H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, to conference with the Senate, following Senate passage of their version of tax reform late last week. During this time representatives from both chambers will have the opportunity to resolve the differences between the two plans. “Now that the Senate has passed their version of the tax plan, I am pleased we are moving forward to reform our tax code to ensure it works for the American people,"" Rep. Reichert said. It is my hope that there will be a robust conference discussion and in working through the differences between the two plans, improvements will be made. This includes protecting the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from drilling. The plan must also create jobs in America, increase paychecks, and put more money in the pockets of hard working Americans. I remain committed to a final plan that allows Washingtonians and Americans across the country to keep more of their hard earned money and gets our economy booming again.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-votes-go-conference-committee-tax-cuts-jobs-act/,McMorris Rodgers Votes to Go to Conference Committee on Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,2017-12-04,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 4, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement on the House’s motion to go to conference on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1), legislation the House and Senate have passed to reform our broken tax code. “We are on track to send a pro-growth and pro-family overhaul of our nation’s tax code to the President’s desk by Christmas. The work to reconcile the differences between the House and Senate versions will begin soon. Just like at every other key stage in this process, we will continue to put Americans first with meaningful reforms that empower families, including those who have children with disabilities, to save and plan for their future.” NOTE: Rep. McMorris Rodgers is working to ensure the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act is written with families who have children with disabilities in mind. Key provisions of McMorris Rodgers’s “ABLE 2.0” legislative package are included in both the House and Senate versions of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, including the ABLE to Work Act and ABLE Financial Planning Act. ABLE to Work Act: This legislation would allow an ABLE beneficiary who earns income for a job to save up to the Federal Poverty Level, which is currently at $11,770, in addition to their annual contribution limit of $14,000. This is targeted to assist only those disabled individuals who cannot contribute to an employer retirement saving plan. ABLE Financial Planning Act: This legislation allows for rollovers from a 529 to a 529A account, but still maintains the annual contribution limit of $14,000. This would allow individuals who may have been saving for their child’s college tuition, which is now no longer needed, to rollover up to the maximum contribution each year until the 529 account has been depleted. The Congresswoman has also made clear the areas where she’d like to see changes to the House-passed version of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act during the conference committee process. Specifically, she has previously stated she agrees with the Senate’s approach to the tax exempt status of graduate student tuition waivers as well as Private Activity Bonds used to finance low-income housing. She is hopeful that both of these issues can be resolved during this process and reflected in the final bill. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-raise-standard,COLUMN: Raise the Standard,2017-12-04,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"The recent cases of sexual harassment allegations against lawmakers and their staff, past and present, demand a strong response from Congress. Our bosses are you, the American people, and you deserve accountability. Staff working in the U.S. Capitol, just like employees in the private sector, deserve to work in a professional environment that is safe. Investigations begun by the bipartisan Ethics Committee are appropriate because this is an issue that should go beyond partisan politics. While ethics investigations are important, Congress should also make immediate legislative changes to end special treatment that would never be permitted in the private sector. Congress must be held to a higher standard and act to create a safe working environment. As a first step, the House unanimously approved legislation, House Resolution 630, last week. This legislation, sponsored by Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-VA), requires all representatives and their staff to complete mandatory anti-harassment and anti-discrimination training during each session of Congress. Congress should not stop there, but we must continue to act quickly to further address this serious matter. This week, the House Administration Committee will hold a hearing to discuss updating the Congressional Accountability Act, which provides rules for workplace safety for Congress, and necessary reforms to the complaint process for victims. This is not a partisan issue, and changes need to provide the accountability that Americans expect of elected representatives. This week, I have also signed on to cosponsor legislation introduced by Rep. Ron DeSantis, (R-FL) called the Congressional Accountability and Hush Fund Elimination Act. This legislation ends the hush funds that have used taxpayer dollars to pay settlements for harassment or assault claims. It would unseal records so that the public know who settled and for what reason. The bill promotes transparency and sheds light on workplace safety in Congress while protecting victims. Victims names would be redacted to preserve their privacy, and perpetrators would be required to reimburse taxpayers. There is also the matter of nondisclosure agreements, which have been used to keep victims quiet. The Congressional Accountability and Hush Fund Elimination Act would prohibit nondisclosure agreements as a precondition to initiate procedures to address sexual harassment or assault claims. It would also permit victims of sexual harassment or assault to make public statements about their claim, regardless of any previously signed nondisclosure agreement. These necessary steps must be taken to promote transparency, accountability and to restore trust. On this urgent matter, Congress must act without hesitating to ensure that the peoples representatives are held to a higher standard.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399077,Jaime Herrera Beutler: Southwest Washingtons Regional Transportation Committee Must Speak Up Now to Prevent Unfair Tolling Plan by Oregon,2017-12-01,2017,2017-12,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler urged the Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Committee (RTC) to formally weigh in on Oregon’s tolling plan at their committee meeting next week. Her letter pressed the RTC to help prevent Oregon from developing tolls that will unfairly punish Southwest Washington commuters. share: f t Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler urged the Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Committee (RTC) to formally weigh in on Oregon’s tolling plan at their committee meeting next week. Her letter pressed the RTC to help prevent Oregon from developing tolls that will unfairly punish Southwest Washington commuters. Below is the text of the letter Jaime sent to RTC board members ahead of their Tuesday, December 5 meeting. “It makes little sense to delay weighing in with Oregon until tolling cameras are mounted over every lane of I-5 and I-205 and our money is in Oregon’s treasury,” said Jaime. “Southwest Washington residents are extremely concerned about Oregon’s tolling plan, and they’re carefully watching the actions – and inaction – of the individuals and groups who are supposed to be representing their interests. If RTC wishes to strengthen the transportation system in our region going forward – including on I-5 – it should win the trust of its stakeholders and stand up for them now.” The text of the letter follows and a PDF is available here. Dear RTC Board Members: As you know, the Oregon Department of Transportation is currently developing a proposal to toll on I-5 and I-205 – vital roadways used by 74,000 Washington residents each day. During this planning phase, I urge the RTC Board to weigh in decisively on behalf of Southwest Washington to help prevent Oregon’s proposal from imposing disproportionate and negative impacts on the thousands of Washingtonians who utilize our interstate highways every day. The debate that led up to and passage of Oregon’s tolling legislation, and Oregon’s subsequent comments about its intentions for tolling, are undermining any serious bi-state effort to address the critical need for region-wide transportation improvements. I do not oppose the concept of a user fee paid by the users of a resource and allocated toward the construction or upkeep of that resource, but using tolls to price people out of their cars, or to pay for Oregon infrastructure miles away from our shared resources is something else – it’s clearly a bad, unfair deal for Southwest Washington commuters. I have heard strong concerns from an overwhelming number of community members over Oregon’s tolling plans. The individuals I hear from are not confined to any one area of our region, or political ideology; they are commuters who don’t have a choice in when or how often they commute to work to earn the money they need to pay their mortgages and buy groceries. If Washington’s representative institutions like RTC stay silent while Oregon develops its tolling plan, please know that you risk eroding the trust of Southwest Washington residents and your subsequent ability to secure their support for future efforts on I-5 and throughout the corridor. Stepping forward to defend the interest of our community early in the process will go a long way toward strengthening that trust. Now is the time for the RTC to weigh in with this process by sending Oregon a clear message that the RTC is looking out for the best interests of Southwest Washington, and that it opposes any tolling plan that would treat its stakeholders unfairly. Sincerely, Jaime Herrera Beutler",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-statement-reauthorization-brownfields-program/,McMorris Rodgers Statement on Reauthorization of Brownfields Program,2017-11-30,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 30, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 3017, the Brownfields Enhancement, Economic Redevelopment, and Reauthorization Act of 2017. This legislation, sponsored by Rep. David McKinley (R-WV) would extend the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Brownfields Program which aids in the redevelopment of closed properties and other commercial sites like the Spokane Riverfront Park in Spokane, Washington. “With brownfields in every Congressional district, this program impacts communities all across the country. We’ve seen the benefits right here in Eastern Washington. The grants from this program can revitalize and renew old properties, create jobs, grow the local economy, and retain some of the great history throughout our communities. Thank you to Rep. David McKinley for leading in this effort that touches each and every corner of America.” NOTE: In May of 2017, Spokane’s Riverfront Park received a $600,000 grant from the Brownfields Program to assist in environmental related cleanup efforts. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/november-wins-eastern-washington-mcmorris-rodgers-passes-3-bills-welcomes-va-chairman-spokane/,"November Wins for Eastern Washington: McMorris Rodgers Passes 3 Bills, Welcomes VA Chairman to Spokane",2017-11-30,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 30, 2017) – In a productive month, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) ushered an impressive three pieces of legislation through the U.S. House of Representatives. She also welcomed House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Phil Roe (R-TN) to Spokane to meet with veterans and develop action items for the next year to help get Eastern Washington veterans the best care imaginable. By bringing more doctors to help rural and urban underserved areas, encouraging the expansion of clean, renewable energy through hydropower, and providing options for families of children with disabilities, the Congresswoman is leading and getting things done on issues that matter to the people of Eastern Washington she has the honor of representing. PASSED: Training the Next Generation of Primary Care Doctors Act of 2017 On November 3rd, the House passed a package of legislation to reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) that included legislation from the Congresswoman to extend the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program, which supports programs like the Spokane Teaching Health Clinic and many others across the country. Not only did McMorris Rodgers’ bill extend the program, it doubled funding to preserve current programs and provide for the expansion of new programs in Eastern Washington and across the country. Find more information here. PASSED: Hydropower Policy Modernization Act of 2017 On November 8, the Congresswoman’s bill to promote clean, renewable, reliable, and affordable hydropower passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 257-166. Hydropower provides roughly 70 percent of the energy in Washington state, and this legislation would streamline the hydropower relicensing process to encourage continued use and expansion of hydropower resources. People all across Washington state, including Avista Corp. supported this bill. Read more about this effort here. PASSED: ABLE Financial Planned Act On November 16, when the House passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, it included the Congresswoman’s ABLE Financial Planning Act. For families with disabilities, being able to save without jeopardizing important benefits is a top concern. This legislation would make it so, as the Congresswoman says, “people who have been saving for their child’s college tuition can rollover that money into a savings account specifically created for individuals with disabilities.” These already established ABLE Accounts allow families and individuals to save up to a certain level without impacting the children’s disability or health benefits. Learn more about the ABLE Financial Planning Act here. RECAP: CHAIRMAN PHIL ROE VISITS SPOKANE On Friday, November 17, the Congresswoman welcomed House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Dr. Phil Roe (R-TN) to Spokane. In June, as a result of the Congresswoman’s work, staff from the committee came to the Spokane VA to look for ways to improve the care Eastern Washington veterans are receiving. In this follow up visit, the Chairman and Congresswoman met with local veterans, staff at the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Spokane, and local community leaders to identify action items for the Spokane VA and hear about the most pressing issues facing the veteran community. Action items for the Spokane VA: Increase number of Graduate Medical Education slots Acquire funding and approval for 24/7 urgent care unit Move toward Teaching Hospital designation Continue making improvements to the Veterans Choice Program for veterans in rural and underserved areas Through building a partnership between the Spokane VA, the WSU College of Medicine, and the Spokane community, the Congresswoman hopes to provide an ecosystem that provides veterans with the best care possible, aids in the development of local students and doctors, and boosts the local economy. The Congresswoman is eager to continue these important efforts and will work every day to get results for people in Eastern Washington. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hanford-senators-murray-cantwell-and-rep-newhouse-highlight-milestone,"HANFORD: Senators Murray, Cantwell and Rep. Newhouse Highlight Milestone in Hanford Cleanup, Urge Continued Federal Work to Fulfill Obligation to Tri-Cities Community",2017-11-30,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) today joined Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) to recognize Hanford workers for completing cleanup that began in 2009 on a high-hazard waste site, known as the 618-10 Burial Ground. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the burial ground once contained some of the most hazardous waste on the nuclear reservation in southeast Washington. The Congressional members commended this milestone and the employees who worked diligently to complete this project, while urging federal officials, including Energy Secretary Rick Perry, to continue the Department’s work on a long list of cleanup projects on the Central Plateau that involves about 1,000 waste sites, 500 facilities, and contaminated soil and groundwater. Earlier this year, the members urged the Trump Administration to provide strong funding for Hanford cleanup in order to reduce risks and long-term costs, meet Tri-Party Agreement milestones, and protect the health and safety of the Tri-Cities community, as it puts together its annual budget requests. “I applaud the thousands of men and women who show up to Hanford every day and who made this milestone possible,” said Sen. Murray. “They are carrying out critical work, and in turn, the federal government must always fulfill its obligation to ensure workers and the entire Tri-Cities community have the resources they need to continue cleanup in a safe, efficient manner that leads to everyone’s ultimate goal of this land being restored to its natural state.” “Cleaning up the 618-10 burial ground was a massive undertaking. The Energy Department’s Richland Office has done an incredible job of decontaminating, demolishing, removing waste and remediating the river corridor,” said Sen. Cantwell. “While this is an important milestone, the Hanford cleanup project still remains one of the largest cleanup projects in the world. I will continue to fight to make sure progress continues at Hanford and the Energy Department lives up to the commitment to cleanup this waste.” ""The accomplishment of this cleanup milestone is a testament to the commitment of workers of Hanford and the greater Tri-Cities community,” said Rep. Newhouse. “This success is an important reminder that a post-cleanup future is in sight for our community, and continued progress requires the federal government to fulfill its legal and moral obligation to finish the job.” Additional background: The 618-10 Burial Ground and two adjacent waste sites, about six miles north of the City of Richland, was one of the most challenging nuclear waste cleanup projects within DOE-Richland Operation’s mission. This 7.5-acre burial ground was used to discard radioactive waste created in the 300 Area, which was the center of Hanford’s radiological research and fuel fabrication activities during plutonium production in the 1950s and 1960s. As a result, it contained some of the most hazardous waste at Hanford. In 2009, DOE-Richland Operations began work to identify and characterize the waste and remediation activities began in 2011. Hanford workers removed 94 vertical pipe units which were buried more than 20 feet below ground; retrieved 2,201 contaminated 55-gallon drums; and excavated more than 305,000 tons of overburden and contaminated soil from the 316-4 and 600-63 waste sites, adjacent to the 618-10 Burial Ground. In total, more than 512,000 tons of radioactive contaminated soil and debris was removed from the 618-10 Burial Ground. With the hazardous waste removed, all that remains to be done is backfill the area and plant native vegetation to restore the area to its natural state. The Tri-Party Agreement milestone to complete this work is September 30, 2018. The Congressional members have consistently advocated for sufficient funding in DOE-Richland Operation’s budget to support the completion of the 618-10 Burial Ground.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/yakima-basin-plan-newhouse-testifies-hearing-support-legislation,Yakima Basin Plan: Newhouse Testifies at Hearing to Support Legislation Authorizing Next Phase,2017-11-30,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) testified at a House Natural Resources Committee Subcommittee on Water, Power and Oceans hearing on legislation sponsored by Rep. Newhouse and Rep. Dave Reichert (R-WA), H.R. 4419, Bureau of Reclamation and Bureau of Indian Affairs Water Project Streamlining Act. H.R. 4419 would streamline the Bureau of Reclamation’s and Bureau of Indian Affairs’ environmental planning and study process for new water projects and authorize the next phase of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan. The bill would apply the same streamlined water project development process used by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under the Water Resources Reform Development Act of 2014 to the Bureau of Reclamation and to the Bureau of Indian Affairs in order to facilitate the construction of new or expanded surface water, storage, infrastructure, and recycling projects. H.R. 4419 broadens the legislation to include additional surface water storage projects, water infrastructure projects, rural water projects, water recycling, and Title XVI water projects. The legislation authorizes Phase III of the Yakima River Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Plan, an initiative to better accommodate the water needs of the agricultural community, conservationists, residents, and other stakeholders in the Yakima River Basin region. Click here to watch Rep. Newhouse testify in support of legislation authorizing the third phase of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan Transcript of Rep. Newhouse’s testimony: Thank you, Chairman Lamborn, Ranking Member Huffman, as well as Members of the Subcommittee for inviting me to testify before you today on H.R. 4419, the “Bureau of Reclamation and Bureau of Indian Affairs Water Project Streamlining Act.” This legislation exhibits years of hard work, determination, and certainly collaboration. I’d like to begin by extending my sincere thanks to Chairman Bishop and his staff, as well as Speaker Ryan and his staff, for working with me to help move this legislation forward. I’d also like to thank my colleague, Congressman Reichert, for his continued partnership on these efforts. This legislation is not only critical for our respective Districts in Washington state, but also Districts across the nation, particularly those in the West. As you know, water is vital for the livelihoods and the prosperity of communities in the western United States. These communities, including my constituents in Central Washington, know all too well the detrimental impacts of facing severe droughts and water shortages. In states where the Bureau of Reclamation and Bureau of Indian Affairs hold jurisdiction for the development of water projects, communities are left waiting due to the lack of a streamlined process. H.R. 4419 would apply the same streamlined water project development process used by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, that was established under the “Water Resources Reform Development Act of 2014,” or WRRDA, to BOR and BIA’s processes for surface water, storage, infrastructure, and recycling project developments. The WRRDA legislation passed through both chambers of Congress with overwhelming bipartisan support. My hope with this legislation is to achieve the same streamlined process for BOR and BIA that was developed for the Corps. This legislation also authorizes several key water development projects across the West, including projects in California, Kansas, Montana, and in my home state of Washington. One of these is the third phase of a vital effort in Central Washington, the Yakima River Basin Water Enhancement Project, or YRBWEP. The Yakima River Basin is one of the leading agricultural regions in Washington State as well as throughout the country. However, the demand for water in the region currently exceeds the resources available, especially during times of drought, which have hit the state especially hard in the past few years. Through years of tough and complex, but continued negotiations, the Yakima River Basin Plan is a model of collaboration that offers a solution to give water users more certainty, while also recognizing the concerns of conservationists and the various stakeholders in the Yakima Basin.  I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the collaborative group of stakeholders at the core of this vital effort. The YRBWEP Workgroup and its Implementation Committee are made up of local irrigation districts, environmental advocates, local elected officials, tribal leaders, state agency officials, conservation organizations, and water storage advocates. The fact that this diverse of a group can agree on much, let alone negotiate and collaborate on years of integrated water project development efforts, is nothing short of ground-breaking. I look forward to hearing testimony from one of the Implementation Committee’s own, Mr. Urban Eberhart, and I thank the Subcommittee for providing the opportunity for the Workgroup to share their model of success with the nation. It’s something that I can tell you I am very, very proud of. Mr. Chairman, H.R. 4419, the “Bureau of Reclamation and Bureau of Indian Affairs Water Project Streamlining Act” is a commonsense bill that reforms the current cumbersome and lengthy processes for water development efforts and provides a mechanism to build new water and infrastructure projects in Central Washington as well as across the West.  This legislation will provide the next major step to addressing our water crisis in the West. I thank the Subcommittee for allowing me to testify today, and I certainly look forward to working with you to get this bill signed into law.   Mr. Urban Eberhart of Ellensburg, Secretary/Manager of Kittitas Reclamation District and a farmer, testified at the hearing on behalf of The Yakima Basin Working Group in support of the legislation: “We are tremendously grateful to Representative Dan Newhouse and Representative Dave Reichert for their tireless work in supporting the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan and for introducing this legislation. They understand how important the Integrated Plan is to the Yakima River Basin, the State of Washington, and the Yakama Nation, and have been looking for ways to move the authorization for the Integrated Plan forward through the House and Senate, then on to the President’s desk.” Click here to watch Mr. Eberhart’s full testimony. Click here for additional witness testimony and to watch the full hearing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-fitzpatrick-and-costello-lead-letter-leadership-arctic-national-wildlife,"Reichert, Fitzpatrick, and Costello Lead Letter to Leadership on Arctic National Wildlife Refuge",2017-11-30,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, Republican Members of Congress sent a letter to Speaker Ryan and Senate Majority Leader McConnell urging them to prevent consideration of any proposal that would allow oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. “As a life-long resident of the Pacific Northwest, I have a great appreciation for and interest in protecting our nation’s wilderness, including the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge,” said Rep. Reichert. “For many years, the Refuge has been the target of new oil drilling opportunities. This threatens the home of countless animal and plant species that depend on this unique environment to survive. For these reasons, we should continue fighting for the protection of this land. Protecting these natural gems for future generations to use and enjoy has and always will be one of my top priorities.” “Serving as good stewards of our environment is something each and every one of us are called to do. Protecting our nation’s open spaces and wild places unites us as Americans,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in support of this and urge others to join us in the defense of America’s wilderness.” “There has been a long history of bipartisan conservation and stewardship efforts to protect the Refuge, and I call upon Congress to maintain these efforts and not include any changes in the tax bill,” said Rep. Costello. This letter has been supported by several groups. “We applaud these House champions for standing up for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and, in the spirit of Teddy Roosevelt, continuing the historic and steadfast bipartisan opposition to drilling in this iconic wild place,” said Adam Kolton, Executive Director of Alaska Wilderness League. “It is clear that using tax legislation to push drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is increasingly unpopular in Congress and it has long been opposed by a majority of Americans. Arctic Refuge drilling should not be a part of any final tax bill.” “We applaud these Representatives for recognizing that protecting the Arctic Refuge from drilling matters to anyone who cares about our wild spaces-- no matter which side of the aisle they’re on,"" said Mike Brune, Executive Director of the Sierra Club. ""If drill rigs make it into the Arctic Refuge, no park, forest or monument boundary will be able to keep them out.”  “Since it was first protected by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, defending the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from oil and gas drilling has always been a bipartisan effort,” said David Yarnold, President and CEO of the National Audubon Society. “The Representatives who have signed on to this letter have taken an important stand at a critical time to defend the most prolific bird nursery. The birds and people we represent at Audubon thank you and will support you in your fight to ensure language opening the Arctic Refuge doesn’t become law.” “We are grateful to these representatives for standing up against this backdoor scheme to sell off a national treasure,"" said Jamie Williams, President of The Wilderness Society. ""For nearly 40 years, there has been bipartisan support for defending the Arctic Refuge, and it is bipartisanship that can save one of our last wild and untouched places for future generations of Americans.” “We commend these House Republicans for their leadership in opposing the Senate’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge tax bill scam,” said Jamie Rappaport Clark, President and CEO of Defenders of Wildlife.  “Opening the irreplaceable Arctic wildlife refuge to drilling has nothing to do with tax reform or raising revenue. It will only destroy vital habitat for imperiled polar bears, migrating caribou, musk oxen. wolves, and millions of migratory birds.”  The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1960 in northern Alaska under President Eisenhower. A public land order was signed, establishing this 8.9 million acre Refuge. The area overflows with flora and fauna in a pristine, untouched landscape where varieties of wildlife thrive in the Alaskan wilderness. Earlier this year, Members also sent a letter urging the House Budget Committee not to open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to drilling in the budget resolution.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-meets-mexicos-secretary-economy,Reichert Meets with Mexico's Secretary of the Economy,2017-11-30,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Yesterday afternoon, Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) met with Mexico’s Secretary of the Economy Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal along with Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady. Following the meeting, Rep. Reichert shared: “I had the pleasure of meeting with Secretary Guajardo to discuss the important friendship and economic relationship we have with Mexico. As Chairman of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, I am committed to strengthening this partnership, creating new opportunities for U.S. exports, and expanding the trade ties between our countries. As we work with the administration to update NAFTA, I am grateful for the opportunity to represent Washington State and America's interests with our neighbors.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-votes-require-congressional-staff-members-undergo-yearly-sexual-harassment-training/,McMorris Rodgers Votes to Require Congressional Staff and Members to Undergo Yearly Sexual Harassment Training,2017-11-29,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 29, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the House passed H.Res. 630 – Requiring each Member, officer, and employee of the House of Representatives to complete a program of training in workplace rights and responsibilities each session of each Congress, and for other purposes. This important legislation requires all Members and staff to complete mandatory anti-harassment and anti-discrimination training during each session of Congress. “I’m deeply troubled by the reports of sexual harassment on Capitol Hill and elsewhere. This behavior is unacceptable in any form, and I’m glad the House is taking steps to make sure our work environments are safe and welcoming for everyone. Thank you to Rep. Comstock for putting forward a resolution that holds Congressional workplaces to the highest of standards.” This morning, during a press conference on Capitol Hill, Rep. McMorris Rodgers spoke in support of this resolution. You can watch her remarks here: She said, “Like many Americans, I’m troubled by the reports of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior in the workplace. It’s rocking Capitol Hill as well as elsewhere around the country. This is not who we are. We can and we must do better. “We need to take a step back to the larger issue of civility and how we treat each other in this country. There are many genuinely good people serving in Congress as the trusted representatives of the people, and we should be leading by example and we should be held to a higher standard. We must walk the talk, and at the end of the day this is about respect and a commitment to civility to everyone. Each one of us must be doing our part to lead by example and rebuild the moral fabric of our country. This is about the Golden Rule. This is about restoring trust.” NOTE: This resolution changes the rules that govern exclusively the House of Representatives, so it will take effect immediately and does not need to go before the Senate or be signed by the President. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-house-unanimously-pass-law-enforcement-mental-health-and-wellness-act,"Reichert, House Unanimously Pass Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act",2017-11-29,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, the House passed H.R. 2228, the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act of 2017, which would help agencies create and improve mental health services for law enforcement officers. The bill was introduced earlier this year by Representatives Dave Reichert (R-WA), Susan Brooks (R-IN), Val Demings (D-FL), Doug Collins (R-GA), and Bill Pascrell (D-NJ). As co-chair of the Law Enforcement Caucus, Rep. Reichert is dedicated to ensuring that our law enforcement is taken care of and given the resources they need to do their jobs and maintain their health. “Having served in law enforcement for 33 years, I know first-hand the importance of providing critical mental health and wellness services for our first responders,” said Reichert. “Our nation’s law enforcement face significant trauma on a regular basis as they dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe. We have seen how these services help our military members, and now it is time that we provide the same help for those who serve us here at home. I am proud that the House of Representatives passed this essential bipartisan legislation today to bring much needed health care to those who put their lives on the line each day for our safety.” “Our police officers face a culture of silence when it comes to mental health challenges, and they need better access to mental health services to help them cope with unforgettable situations,” said Brooks. “In the Fifth District, Boone County Sheriff Mike Nielsen’s daughter, also a police officer, tried to take her own life because she was struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after responding to a case involving the murder of a mother and her 4-year-old son. Nielsen’s daughter did not have access to services that could help her process and cope with the horrific situation she faced that day. The passage of the Law Enforcement Mental Wellness Act through the House of Representatives today ensures that we are one step closer to supporting the men and women in law enforcement with the resources they need to stay healthy while selflessly serving our communities and keeping us safe.” “As a former Chief of Police, with 27 years in law enforcement, I know all too well that our law enforcement officers respond to some of the most horrific scenes and situations without regard to their own personal safety,” said Demings. “This important piece of legislation would ensure that agencies are better equipped and officers have the resources needed to more effectively deal with the stress and mental health challenges associated with the job.” “As the son of a Georgia State Trooper, I never forget that members of the law enforcement community voluntarily enter dangerous, stressful situations each day, and they do this for the sake of their neighbors’” said Collins. “It’s my privilege to join the House in voting to support the unique wellness needs of these men and women. They continue to invest in making our communities safer, and the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act invests in providing practical resources to support officers in their work.” “We all know the brave men and women in law enforcement put themselves in difficult, dangerous, and sometimes life-threatening situations every day,” said Pascrell. “It is absolutely critical that we provide our law enforcement officers with all the resources they need to effectively do their job to keep our communities safe. We must work to decrease the stress on law enforcement officers, which can have a big impact on officers’ physical and mental well-being. I am pleased that the House passed our bipartisan bill to ensure officer mental wellness is a priority from the day of hire to the day they retire.” The Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act of 2017 would direct the Department of Justice, Department of Defense, and the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop resources to equip local law enforcement agencies to address mental health challenges faced by officers. The bill would also make grants available to initiate peer mentoring pilot programs, develop training for mental health providers specific to law enforcement mental health needs, and support law enforcement officers by studying the effectiveness of crisis hotlines and annual mental health checks. This legislation is supported by the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA), Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the National Association of Police Officers (NAPO), the Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399073,"Herrera Beutler, Kaptur lead lawmakers in bipartisan letter urging Administration to fund mental health and substance use programs",2017-11-28,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) led a bipartisan group of 11 lawmakers urging the Office of Management and Budget to provide robust funding in 2019 to programs that address mental health, suicide prevention and substance use disorders. share: f t Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) led a bipartisan group of 11 lawmakers urging the Office of Management and Budget to provide robust funding in 2019 to programs that address mental health, suicide prevention and substance use disorders. “We are committed to building better futures for individuals and families affected by mental illness and serious mental illness. Unfortunately, stories of families who have suffered attempting to find care for a loved one are all too common. The opioid crisis has exacerbated and exhausted the attempt to find solutions on mental health and substance use disorders,” said the Members in their letter.  “We strongly support investments in research, prevention, and treatment programs that will reach populations in need and increase coordination across the federal government. Promoting evidence-based programs at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will help those with mental illness rather than hinder them,” the Members continued. “We ask that you prioritize robust funding for programs that focus on mental illness, substance use disorder, and suicide prevention. We look forward to your response and partnering with you on this critical issue,” the Members concluded. Reps. Palazzo (R-MS), Sinema (D-AZ), Blumenauer (D-OR), Vargas (D-CA), McCollum (D-MN), Peter King (R-NY), David Young (R-IA), Knight (R-CA) and Paulsen (R-MN) also signed the letter. Read the full letter here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-announces-new-staff-member-based-walla-walla/,McMorris Rodgers Announces New Staff Member in Walla Walla,2017-11-28,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 28, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) announced the hiring of a new southern district representative to serve in her Walla Walla office. Victor Valerio will join the Congresswoman’s team beginning next Monday, December 4, and will oversee the Walla Walla regional office and outreach efforts throughout Walla Walla, Columbia, Asotin, Garfield, and Whitman Counties. “I’m so excited to have Victor join our team so we can continue the great work that’s been happening in the southern part of Washington’s Fifth Congressional District,” said McMorris Rodgers. “Victor’s unique life experience will be a great addition to our team and I look forward to him getting to work next week as a resource to people and groups in the Walla Walla Valley and beyond.” ABOUT VICTOR VALERIO: Victor was born in Mexico and immigrated to the United States in 2004. His family settled in Milton-Freewater where he attended McLoughlin High School. Victor became a U.S. citizen in 2014. Most recently, he served as a patient care coordinator for Providence Medical Group in their pediatric outreach clinic. Victor will serve as a permanent staff member in the Congresswoman’s Walla Walla regional office (26 E. Main Street, Suite 2) where he will provide direct support to people in the community who need assistance or want to have their voice heard. He will also serve as a representative on the Congresswoman’s behalf to many groups and community events through these five counties. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-net-neutrality,Reichert Statement on Net Neutrality,2017-11-28,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reichert Statement on Net Neutrality Nov 28, 2017 Washington, DC - Representative Dave Reichert released the following statement on the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) recent announcement on net neutrality. “Throughout my time in Congress, I have consistently supported the principle of net neutrality,"" Rep. Reichert said. ""To me this principle means Washingtonians and their families are free to make their own decisions when using the Internet not having their choices limited by the slowing down, degradation, or blocking of online content by outside groups. As the FCC moves forward it is my hope that any action taken will preserve these protections for online consumers and keep the Internet open, free from interference, and make sure it stays a source of innovation and job creation.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-doj-cops-hiring-program-funding,Reichert Statement on DOJ COPS Hiring Program Funding,2017-11-22,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that $98 million in grants will be awarded to 179 law enforcement agencies across the country through the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program. In response, Congressman Dave Reichert, a law enforcement veteran of 33 years, released the following statement about the COPS Hiring Program - a program he has consistently championed and fought to protect from elimination throughout his career. “I am proud that today law enforcement agencies across the country will find out they can now hire the officers they need through the COPS Hiring Program,” Rep. Reichert said. “I know firsthand how important community policing is to reducing crime, improving quality of life, keeping officers safe, and maintaining relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. These community oriented policing grants are essential to bridging the ever widening gap between police officers and their communities."" ""This is why I have fought to fund this program and keep it focused on supporting the cops on the street and not on local immigration politics. Grant standards based on federal immigration policies ultimately punish cops by withholding federal grant money in an effort to force local governments to change immigration policies. Through this grant funding, law enforcement departments across the country will be able to hire new personnel to assist with the ever-increasing work load these officers face. It is essential that we continue to provide our law enforcement officers and first responders with the resources they need to continue protecting our communities and keeping our families safe.” To learn more about the COPS Hiring Program, see the Attorney General’s release here. Rep. Reichert has fought continuously throughout his career for funding of the COPS Hiring Program to ensure it is regularly protected and strengthened. This program is often times targeted for elimination or funding cuts during the appropriations process. As co-chair of the Law Enforcement Caucus, Rep. Reichert, along with his co-chair, Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ), sent a bipartisan letter to President Trump outlining the importance of the COPS Hiring Program. Rep. Reichert and Rep. Pascrell also sent a bipartisan letter to the Appropriations Committee this year encouraging them to include funding for the COPS Hiring Program. Over 180 other Members of Congress signed this letter as well in support of the program. In September 2017, Rep. Reichert secured funding for the COPS Hiring Program on the House floor from Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee (CJS) Chairman John Culberson (R-TX) for Fiscal Year 2018. Chairman Culberson committed to securing this funding. Prior to the Congressman’s efforts, funding for the program had been completely eliminated. In relation, Rep. Reichert has also championed the Project Safe Neighborhoods program, a federal grant program to combat gang violence and gun-related crimes. In September, the House passed his amendment to increase funding for this program to $20 million for fiscal year 2018.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-newhouse-introduce-legislation-authorize-key-phase-yakima-basin-integrated,"Reichert, Newhouse Introduce Legislation to Authorize Key Phase of Yakima Basin Integrated Plan",2017-11-17,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Yesterday, Rep. Dave Reichert (R-WA) and Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced H.R. 4419, the Bureau of Reclamation and Bureau of Indian Affairs Water Project Streamlining Act of 2017, to reform the Bureau of Reclamation’s and Bureau of Indian Affairs’ environmental planning and study process for new water projects and to authorize the next phase of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan. The legislation authorizes a Phase III of the Yakima River Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Plan, an initiative to better accommodate the water needs of the agricultural community, conservationists, residents, and other stakeholders in the Yakima River Basin region. “After years of discussion with local stakeholders, I am proud that we have finally come together on a forward-thinking plan that will work to protect the future economic health of the Yakima Basin and the surrounding regions. It does so by providing the water needed for our agricultural, irrigation, environmental, and tribal interests; local businesses; and communities to thrive,” said Rep. Reichert. “There is more work to be done to perfect this plan. I am committed to achieving a final product that will give agricultural producers the confidence they need to continue operating and expanding in the area, while also addressing the concerns of conservationists and local residents. I look forward to continued work with Congressman Newhouse and the Yakima Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Plan to move this legislation through Congress and to the President’s desk.” “I am grateful to Speaker Paul Ryan and House Natural Resource Committee Chairman Rob Bishop for working with me and Rep. Dave Reichert to craft this legislation that streamlines the process for new water infrastructure projects and authorizes the next phase of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Updating and modernizing our water supply infrastructure is critical to meet the current needs and future growth of communities across the nation. The Yakima Basin Plan is a national model for collaborative water infrastructure planning, taking into consideration the needs of agriculture, conservationists, residents, and a diverse group of stakeholders. We need to get this done.” “Rep. Reichert and Rep. Newhouse have worked hard on this issue and it clearly shows they care about the people of Washington state,” House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Rob Bishop (R-UT) said. For the text of the legislation, click here. BACKGROUND: In the 114th Congress, legislation authorizing the Yakima River Basin Water Enhancement Project Phase III (H.R. 4686) introduced by Rep. Reichert and Rep. Newhouse ran into an earmark issue in the House. This revised legislation allows authorization of the Yakima Basin project consistent with the House rules. The Yakima River Basin is one of the leading agricultural regions in Washington State and throughout the country. The orchardists, wine grape growers, and other members of the agricultural community inject approximately $3.2 billion into Washington’s economy and support countless jobs in the area. However, the demand for water in the region currently exceeds the resources available, especially during times of drought, which have hit the state especially hard in the past few years. As a result, water use has been restricted for junior water rights holders - or individuals who obtained water rights in 1905 or later – during times of shortages. With researchers predicting that drought seasons will only become more common and get worse as snowpack in the mountains continues to decline, action needs to be taken so that stakeholders in the Yakima Basin can continue operating without having to worry about whether or not they will be able to water their crops or their backyard garden. As the nation has seen with extreme water problems in California, Washington must be proactive and have a viable plan in place should intense drought hit the state. After years of tough negotiations, the Yakima River Basin Plan offers a solution that will give water users more certainty, while also recognizing the concerns of conservationists and the various stakeholders in the Yakima Basin. Specifically, the Yakima River Basin Plan would: - Provide greater water supply reliability for farmers and communities. - Secure the water that communities need to meet current and future demand. - Protect over 200,000 acres of currently unprotected forest, shrub steppe, and river habitat. - Enhance habitat along the Yakima River and its tributariImplement water marketing and banking so that water is more easily delivered when and where needed. - Build fish passage to allow salmon, steelhead, and bull trout to travel throughout the basin.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-icicle-work-group,Reichert Statement on Icicle Work Group,2017-11-17,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Rep. Reichert released the following statement about the Icicle Work Group. ""As the Congressman for Washington’s 8th Congressional District, I have met and continue to work with the Icicle Work Group, hearing more about their goals and all their work throughout the district. Convened in 2012, this group of diverse stakeholders, from around the state, has come together through several meetings to find collaborative and lasting solutions for water resources in Icicle Creek that will meet the needs of all involved. The goals of the work group include protecting fishing for all parties and improving stream flow, sustainability at the federal fish hatchery, supply of domestic water, and reliability of agricultural producers and stream habitat. Through the Yakima Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Plan Work Group, we have seen how important it is to work with a diverse group of stakeholders, participate in a community-driven dialogue, and have a process to address water resource needs. I encourage all the local stakeholders to continue engaging and talking with one another to find a path forward with the Icicle Work Group that accomplishes these goals as well as ensures environmental protections remain to preserve our pristine wilderness and precious wildlife habitat for future generations.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399065,"Kilmer, Herrera Beutler, Urge Inclusion of Fisheries Funds in Administrations Disaster Relief Request",2017-11-16,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representatives Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) led a bipartisan letter urging the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to develop a supplemental funding request to address the multiple fishery disaster declarations that have impacted Washington State’s commercial, recreational, and tribal fisheries. share: f t Yesterday, Representatives Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) led a bipartisan letter urging the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to develop a supplemental funding request to address the multiple fishery disaster declarations that have impacted Washington State’s commercial, recreational, and tribal fisheries. In their letter, addressed to OMB Director Mick Mulvaney, the lawmakers said: “As we continue to assist those who have been so severely impacted by our unprecedented national disasters, we must not forget those who have suffered no less under previous disaster declarations. We strongly urge you to work with these communities to ascertain and fully address the unmet economic damages caused by these past disasters as an additional supplemental request is developed.” Since 2014, the region’s fisheries have been devastated by multiple natural disasters including persistent harmful algal blooms and a devastating pocket of warm water, known as “the blob”, which has been attributed to devastating fish and bird die-offs, whale strandings and other environmental consequences. These natural disasters have caused severe economic hardship in Washington, Alaska, Oregon, and California, where the lives and livelihoods of local communities depend on the health of these fisheries. According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, commercial and recreational fishing supports an estimated 16,374 jobs and $540 million in personal income. This funding request seeks to build on the $20 million the lawmakers secured when the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3354, the Make America Secure and Prosperous Act in September. A copy of the letter is available for download here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-votes-give-tax-relief-eastern-washington-families/,McMorris Rodgers Votes to Give Tax Relief to Eastern Washington Families,2017-11-16,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 16, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the House passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1), the House plan to provide tax relief to millions of hardworking families and create more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks. “This is a historic moment. It’s been 31 years since the tax code was fundamentally reformed,” said McMorris Rodgers. “We’re looking out for middle class families who deserve the same chance as everyone else to get ahead. The hardworking men and women of America deserve a tax code that puts them first. We’ve created a plan that rewards hard work, encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, and levels the playing field so that everyone plays by the same rules. “Our plan to lift the tax burden off Americans puts more money back in people’s paychecks and helps Americans go from garage to global success. We’re bringing jobs back from overseas and strengthening Main Street. Our plan simplifies the tax code, closes loopholes, and creates peace of mind for Americans everywhere. “Thank you to all of the House Ways and Means members, and especially Chairman Brady, for putting forth a plan that delivers significant tax relief and rewrites the tax code to put hard working Americans first.” NOTE: This morning, Rep. McMorris Rodgers joined America’s Newsroom to preview today’s historic vote on pro-family, pro-growth tax reform and President Trump’s visit to Capitol Hill. Watch the full interview here. To learn more about the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, visit FairandSimple.gop or text “Tax Reform” to 50589. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-reichert-introduce-legislation-streamline-new-water-projects,"Newhouse, Reichert Introduce Legislation to Streamline New Water Projects, Authorize Key Phase of Yakima Basin Integrated Plan",2017-11-16,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Rep. Dave Reichert (R-WA) introduced H.R. 4419, Bureau of Reclamation and Bureau of Indian Affairs Water Project Streamlining Act of 2017 to streamline the Bureau of Reclamation’s and Bureau of Indian Affairs’ environmental planning and study process for new water projects and to authorize the next phase of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan. The bill would apply the same streamlined water project development process used by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under the Water Resources Reform Development Act of 2014 to the Bureau of Reclamation and to the Bureau of Indian Affairs in order to facilitate the construction of new or expanded surface water, storage, infrastructure, and recycling projects. H.R. 4419 broadens the legislation to include additional surface water storage projects, water infrastructure projects, rural water projects, water recycling, and Title XVI water projects. The legislation authorizes a Phase III of the Yakima River Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Plan, an initiative to better accommodate the water needs of the agricultural community, conservationists, residents, and other stakeholders in the Yakima River Basin region. “I am grateful to Speaker Paul Ryan and House Natural Resource Committee Chairman Rob Bishop for working with me and Rep. Dave Reichert to craft this legislation that streamlines the process for new water infrastructure projects and authorizes the next phase of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Updating and modernizing our water supply infrastructure is critical to meet the current needs and future growth of communities across the nation. The Yakima Basin Plan is a national model for collaborative water infrastructure planning, taking into consideration the needs of agriculture, conservationists, residents, and a diverse group of stakeholders. We need to get this done.” “After years of discussion with local stakeholders, I am proud that we have finally come together on a forward-thinking plan that will work to protect the future economic health of the Yakima Basin and the surrounding regions. It does so by providing the water needed for our agricultural, irrigation, environmental, and tribal interests; local businesses; and communities to thrive,” said Rep. Reichert. “There is more work to be done to perfect this plan. I am committed to achieving a final product that will give agricultural producers the confidence they need to continue operating and expanding in the area, while also addressing the concerns of conservationists and local residents. I look forward to continued work with Congressman Newhouse and the Yakima Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Plan to move this legislation through Congress and to the President’s desk. ” “Rep. Newhouse has worked hard on this issue and it clearly shows he cares about the people of Washington state,” House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Rob Bishop (R-UT) said. For the text of the legislation, click here. BACKGROUND: The Bureau of Reclamation and Bureau of Indian Affairs Surface Water Storage Streamlining Act requires the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to accelerate studies and provide more accountability in the agency’s process to study the feasibility of new and or expanded surface water storage. The legislation would provide the same streamlined water project development process for BOR and BIA surface water storage projects that the “Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014” (WRRDA) gave to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps).  The goal of the legislation is to reform the current cumbersome, lengthy process so that there is a mechanism to build new surface water storage projects in the West. The bill is designed to speed up BOR’s and BIA’s feasibility study process on surface water storage that “would be owned, funded, or operated” by the agency.  The legislation also requires reporting and transparency requirements to provide agency justifications on why feasibility studies are not being completed in a timely manner.  The bill closely resembles provisions included in WRRDA. The conference report for WRRDA, which includes nearly identical provisions for the Corps, passed both Houses in the 113th Congress (by a vote of 412-4 in the House and 91-7 in the Senate). Yakima River Basin Water Enhancement Project: In the 114th Congress, similar legislation authorizing the Yakima River Basin Water Enhancement Project Phase III (H.R. 4686) introduced by Rep. Reichert and Rep. Newhouse ran into an earmark issue in the House. This revised legislation allows authorization of the Yakima Basin project consistent with the House rules. The Yakima River Basin is one of the leading agricultural regions in Washington State and throughout the country. The orchardists, wine grape growers, and other members of the agricultural community inject approximately $3.2 billion into Washington’s economy and support countless jobs in the area. However, the demand for water in the region currently exceeds the resources available, especially during times of drought, which have hit the state especially hard in the past few years. As a result, water use has been restricted for junior water rights holders - or individuals who obtained water rights in 1905 or later – during times of shortages. With researchers predicting that drought seasons will only become more common and get worse as snowpack in the mountains continues to decline, action needs to be taken so that stakeholders in the Yakima Basin can continue operating without having to worry about whether or not they will be able to water their crops or their backyard garden. As the nation has seen with extreme water problems in California, we must be proactive and have a viable plan in place should intense drought hit Washington. After years of tough negotiations, the Yakima River Basin Plan offers a solution that will give water users more certainty, while also recognizing the concerns of conservationists and the various stakeholders in the Yakima Basin. Specifically, the Yakima River Basin Plan would: Provide greater water supply reliability for farmers and communities. Secure the water that communities need to meet current and future demand. Protect over 200,000 acres of currently unprotected forest, shrub steppe, and river habitat. Enhance habitat along the Yakima River and its tributaries. Implement water marketing and banking so that water is more easily delivered when and where needed. Build fish passage to allow salmon, steelhead, and bull trout to travel throughout the basin. Additional bill highlights: Requires future Reclamation feasibility studies to be completed with three years after the date of initiation and have a maximum federal cost of $3 million. The bill provides for a maximum seven year extension of that time and cost if the Interior Secretary provides a detailed justification to the non-federal project sponsor and the Congress.  Requires the Interior Secretary to expedite the completion of any ongoing feasibility studies initiated before the date of enactment. If the Secretary determines that the project is justified in a completed report, he/she shall proceed to proceed to pre-construction planning, engineering and design of the project.​ Directs the Interior Secretary to develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process with Reclamation and the non-federal project sponsor as lead agencies for expedited environmental review of a project. The bill further directs the lead agencies to establish a schedule for completion of a study and lays out financial penalties to the Interior Secretary if timelines are not met. Directs the Interior Secretary to develop and submit a report to the relevant committees in Congress that identifies project report, proposed project and proposed modifications to studies and federal and non-federal cost estimates for all three. These activities would be similar to the feasibility studies listed in Section 7002 of P.L. 113-121, which authorized construction of projects by Congress.  The legislation additionally authorizes the following projects: Shasta Lake Water Resources Investigation - California Equus Beds Division of the Wichita Project – Kansas Musselshell-Judith Rural Water System - Montana",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/real-tax-relief-families,Real Tax Relief for Families,2017-11-16,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"https://newhouse.house.gov/sites/newhouse.house.gov/files/4th%20District%20Tax%20Numbers%20by%20County.pdfWASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 1, The Tax Cut and Jobs Act, to provide historic reform that cuts taxes and simplifies our nation’s tax code: “I was proud to cast my vote today for historic tax reform that provides a simpler and fairer system for families and businesses in Central Washington,” said Rep. Newhouse. “This reform flattens rates and lifts burdens from taxpayers, and it unleashes American businesses, large and small, to better compete. About eighty percent of filers in the Fourth District use the standard deduction, so doubling it will provide real tax relief for the majority of families. Reform will boost manufacturers by allowing small businesses and farmers to immediately write off the full cost of new equipment. Reform will repeal the unfair death tax, which hinders family farms and small businesses from passing on the success of a lifetime of hard work on to the next generation. As this process continues, I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to send legislation to President Trump for his signature.” Click here to WATCH Rep. Newhouse Floor Speech in Support of H.R. 1, The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Click here for recent tax return information, including the average itemized deductions of filers, in Adams, Benton, Douglas, Franklin, Grant, Okanogan, Walla Walla, and Yakima counties. Congressional district tax return data available here. A recent analysis by the non-partisan Tax Foundation found that the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act will add an estimated 19,968 new full time jobs to Washington State’s economy and increase after tax income for middle-income families by $2,672. Fast facts on H.R. 1: Lowers individual tax rates for low- and middle- income Americans to zero, 12%, 25%, and 35% so people can keep more of the money they earn throughout their lives, and continues to maintain 39.6% for high-income Americans. Significantly increases the standard deduction to protect roughly double the amount of what Americans earn each year from taxes – from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals and $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples. Expands Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $1,600 per child to help parents with the cost of raising children and providing a credit of $300 for each parent and non-child dependent to help all families with their everyday expenses. Preserves the Adoption Tax Credit. Preserves the home mortgage interest deduction for existing mortgages and maintains the home mortgage interest deduction for newly purchased homes up to $500,000 – providing tax relief to current and aspiring homeowners. Continues to allow people to write off cost of state and local property taxes up to $10,000. According to the Internal Revenue Service data, in 2014, 80.4% of residents of the 4th Congressional District claimed the standard deduction when filing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-house-pass-tax-bill-will-help-families-energize-our-country-and-get-our,"Reichert, House Pass Tax Bill That Will Help Families, Energize Our Country, and Get Our Economy Booming Again",2017-11-16,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – This afternoon, Rep. Reichert and his colleagues in the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. “Today, we passed more than a tax bill. We passed a bill to allow families across Washington keep more of their hard-earned money and to give businesses the chance to grow and hire more workers. We are providing more opportunities for the apple grower in Wenatchee, the tech entrepreneur in Issaquah, and the growing family in Maple Valley. They all deserve a tax code that works for them. A tax code that is simpler and fairer,” Rep. Reichert said. “Throughout this process, I have held every proposed idea to the standard of will this plan create jobs in America, increase paychecks, and put more money in the pockets of hard-working Americans. I am proud to say, this plan meets this high-standard and as a result it will change lives, energize our country, and get our economy booming again.” Under this plan, a median income family of 4 in Washington’s Eighth District, will be receiving a $3,654 tax cut. And in Washington State as a whole, the Tax Foundation has found that 19,968 new full-time jobs will be created. To see Rep. Reichert’s floor speech on H.R. 1 click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399064,Jaime Herrera Beutler Supports Lowering Taxes for Southwest Washington Residents,2017-11-15,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler announced her support for the U.S. House’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that will allow residents across Southwest Washington to keep more of their money and earn bigger paychecks. share: f t Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler announced her support for the U.S. House’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that will allow residents across Southwest Washington to keep more of their money and earn bigger paychecks. For instance, a family of four in Southwest Washington making a median salary of $83,874 will get to keep $1,929 more of their money instead of paying it in taxes; and independent studies show 19,968 more jobs will be created in the state of Washington and middle-income families will see on average $2,672 more in their paychecks due to economic growth. “This bill is a good deal for Southwest Washington taxpayers,” said Jaime. “While portions of our economy have seen a boost since the recession, the take-home pay, salary increases and raises of actual workers have not – and Congress has an opportunity to change that by passing this tax cut bill. These tax cuts will nearly double the amount the IRS can’t touch from your paycheck each year, from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals and from $12,700 to $24,000 for married folks. Seven out of ten Southwest Washington taxpayers already use this ‘standard deduction’ to calculate their tax bill – and with it doubling, even more people here will use it to pay a lower, simpler tax bill, which will leave more money in their wallets. “For individuals who rely on relief from their mortgage interest payments, property tax payments or costs of raising kids, those deductions and credits are largely preserved and even strengthened. For instance, a new ‘family credit’ provides a $300 boost for each parent to help with everyday expenses. If you’re a family of four in Vancouver and you earn around $84,000 – the mean family salary in our region – you will keep about $1,929 more of your money each year. “Nearly eight out of 10 Americans live paycheck to paycheck, unable to save any money once the bills are paid and groceries are bought. By voting yes for this bill, Congress has the opportunity to spark economic growth that will provide an average $2,600 boost in annual paychecks. “The bottom line is this: as a result of this tax cut plan, most residents will keep more of their money, paychecks will be bigger, and we’ll have nearly 20,000 new jobs in Washington alone.” How Southwest Washington will benefit from the U.S. House’s tax cuts: More money in the pockets of Southwest Washington residents: The median household of four in Southwest Washington (making $83,874) will save $1,929 per year on their taxes Lowers individual tax rates Increases the standard deduction Retains popular retirement savings options such as 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts More jobs & wage increases: 19,968 more jobs in Washington state $2,672 is the estimated gain of take-home pay for middle-income families Supports small businesses: Provides a new, low tax rate of 9% for startup businesses who fuel innovation & job creation Allows businesses to immediately write off the full cost of new equipment Supports families: Establishes a new Family Credit – which includes a larger Child Tax Credit (an increase from $1,000 to $1,600), and the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit to help all families with their everyday expenses Continues to allow people to write off the cost of state and local property taxes up to $10,000 Preserves the home mortgage interest deduction up to $500,000 90% of Southwest Washington residents will be able to file their taxes on a postcard-sized form Charge vs. Fact in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Charge 1: “This bill is a tax increase on the middle class.” FACT: This false attack was being spread before the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was even released. In its “Four Pinocchio” rebuke (out of four possible Pinocchio’s – rated a “Whopper”) of the claim that most middle class families would have their taxes increased, the Washington Post fact-checker wrote: “In their haste to condemn the GOP tax plan, Democrats have spread far and wide the false claim that families making less than $86,100 on average will face a hefty tax hike. Actually, it’s the opposite. Most families in that income range would get a tax cut.” Charge 2: “This bill is a giveaway to the most wealthy.” FACT: In fact, this bill maintains the top 39.6% tax rate on high-income earners, while lowering the tax rate on low- and middle-income taxpayers. It eliminates dozens of costly and complex loopholes and special deals that have historically benefitted wealthier Americans the most. The wealthiest Americans will continue to pay the most in taxes, both in dollar and percentage terms. Anyone who makes this charge has likely not studied the bill. For instance, they’ve certainly missed that under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, if a pro sports team owner wants a new stadium, they’ll be forced to pay for more of it themselves. This tax reform bill eliminates a special tax break that exists under the code that incentivizes taxpayer-funding of new stadiums. Charge 3: “This bill will only benefit big corporations.” FACT: If you think corporations should continue getting tax breaks for renting out suites at the Super Bowl or holding executive golf outings, then the current tax code is for you. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act eliminates the deduction of these and other corporate loopholes. Rather than using this narrowly-tailored, complex system of special tax loopholes to hold more rounds of golf, corporations will see relief from what is currently the highest corporate tax rate in the world. Multiple economists conclude that a more competitive corporate tax rate will result in more jobs and bigger paychecks right here in the U.S. Charge 4: “This is simply a giveaway to big corporations at the expense of Main Street businesses.” FACT: Main Street businesses stand to gain substantially from Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in Southwest Washington. Of the nearly 40,000 Southwest Washington small businesses that operate as “pass through” entities (taxes are paid by the owner on her individual returns): Those small businesses that make $150,000 or less in net business income, the first $75,000 in income will be lowered to 9%. The small business tax rate will be lowered to 25%. Other pieces of the bill that will benefit small businesses: Small businesses will be able to write off the full cost of new equipment. Small businesses will be able to write off the interest on loans used to start or grow operations – and hire more workers. The “Death Tax” will be phased out after six years, eliminating the penalty for passing family-owned farms and small businesses to the next generation. Charge 5: “Changing the state and local tax deduction will raise taxes significantly on middle-class families.” FACT:The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is focused on simplifying the tax code by lowering overall rates and increasing the standard deduction. It continues to allow families to deduct state and local property taxes up to $10,000.  When critics of the plan cherry-pick individual deductions that offer a specific benefit under the current tax code, they are ignoring the bigger reforms that will ultimately save lower- and middle-class Washingtonians more money overall.  Seven out of 10 Southwest Washington residents don’t use this deduction – or any itemized deduction. By nearly doubling the standard deduction, even fewer would find that the local tax deduction benefits them as much as taking advantage of the standard deduction and saving more money than they do now.    Charge 6: “This is fiscally irresponsible and will add trillions to our deficit.” FACT: First of all, the bill eliminates billions of dollars in special interest loopholes and tax breaks that have only benefited a narrow segment of wealthy individuals, or that have stifled economic growth. By eliminating these breaks, by incentivizing small and large employers to invest more in their operations, and by lowering the overall tax burden on these employers, private sector businesses will grow and increase revenue, paychecks will grow, and more people will be employed – contributing the necessary revenue to fund these tax cuts. This method of calculating what a bill will cost and how it’s paid for – accounting for a larger, more robust economy -- is referred to as “dynamic scoring,” which the non-partisan Joint Committee on Taxation has utilized since 2003.   Furthermore, when those critics of the tax cut plan are the same individuals who had no fiscal reservations about voting in Congress for trillions of dollars of unfunded stimulus plans, bailouts, Medicaid expansions, and failed green energy subsidies – it begs the question of whether their attacks along these lines are based on policy, or politics. Charge 7: “Charitable giving will plummet as result of this bill.” FACT: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act preserves the itemized deduction for charitable giving, so that Washington residents can continue to see tax benefits from donating to local churches and nonprofits.  Additionally, by growing Americans’ paychecks, the bill will give Americans more money to donate to churches and charities. Charge 8: “Charities that benefit under the current tax code will be harmed.” FACT: Under this tax cut bill, tax exempt status for charitable organizations is protected. What the bill includes are commonsense reforms that ensure such privileged status is being reserved for organizations that truly serve and help people. For instance, under this reform, a not-for-profit public art gallery will receive a bigger tax benefit than a private art collector. Charge 9: “Republicans are simply helping corporations be able to ship more jobs overseas.” FACT: U.S. based corporations will see immediate incentive for expanding their operations within the U.S. when their overall tax rate is lowered from 35% to 20%, which nonpartisan analyses predict will raise the average American’s paycheck by $1,800 to $4,000. Additionally, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will allow for a one time “repatriation” of overseas earnings, meaning that money will be brought to the U.S. from foreign accounts and assets where it can be invested in U.S. operations and businesses – a potential $2.6 trillion stimulus to the U.S. economy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399063,"Jaime Herrera Beutler Presses Oregons DOT to Clarify Authority, Public Engagement of Tolling Advisory Committee Ahead of Nov. 20 Meeting",2017-11-14,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler formally requested Oregon’s Department of Transportation to answer questions regarding the authority and public outreach of its tolling advisory committee. The committee’s first meeting is scheduled for Monday 8:30 A.M., November 20 in Portland. share: f t Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler formally requested Oregon’s Department of Transportation to answer questions regarding the authority and public outreach of its tolling advisory committee. The committee’s first meeting is scheduled for Monday 8:30 A.M., November 20 in Portland. The text of Jaime’s letter follows and a PDF version is available here. Matthew Garrett, Director Oregon Department of Transportation 355 Capitol St. NE, MS 11 Salem, OR 97301-3871   Dear Director Garrett, As an elected representative of the citizens of Washington who are among the heaviest users of Interstate 5 and Interstate 205, I write to seek clarification on the process by which Oregon will finalize the tolling plan called for in Oregon’s House Bill 2017.   It is my understanding that Oregon Transportation Commission (OTC) will develop the final detailed proposal for the tolls on I-205 and I-5. OTC has created the Portland Region Value Pricing Policy Advisory Committee, and has allotted three slots of the 20 person committee for Washingtonians. The Advisory Committee’s first meeting is quickly approaching on Monday, November 20. My questions are: -          What statutory authority does the Advisory Committee have, if any?  -          Is there any statutory requirement that the OTC must adhere to any of the advisory committee’s conclusions?  -          If OTC disagrees with those conclusions, does it have the authority to disregard them? -          Is there any statutory requirement for OTC to consider any minority/dissenting opinions from the committee? -          How did OTC determine that three representatives from the state from which a majority of the cross-bridge trips originate out of 20 members was an appropriate allotment? -          The advisory committee’s first public meeting is at 8:30am on the Monday of Thanksgiving week in downtown Portland (November 20).  What effort will be made to advertise this and future meetings to Washington residents?  -          Will any future meetings be held in a location more convenient to Washington residents? -          Will any consideration be given to holding future meetings at a time more convenient than the Monday morning of a holiday week when many interested stakeholders will be unable to participate?   Thank you in advance for your responses to these questions. Sincerely, Jaime ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-putting-americans-safety-security-first/,McMorris Rodgers: “We are putting Americans’ safety and security first”,2017-11-14,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 14, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today released the following statement after the House passed the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (H.R. 2810). This bill rebuilds our military through equipment modernization and improves readiness. It also reforms the way that the Pentagon does business and gives them the tools they need to make better, more responsible decisions.   “After a half-decade of cuts, we are strengthening our military readiness and restoring our military might. The men and women who keep us safe are our country’s most valuable asset, and we have a responsibility to provide them the resources, care, and pay raise they need, earned, and deserve,” said McMorris Rodgers. “We are putting Americans’ safety and security first by providing much-needed resources to effectively defend our country.” NOTE: This legislation provides troops with the biggest pay raise in 8 years, permanently preserves Special Survivor Indemnity Allowance (SSIA) to more than 60,000 surviving military spouses, reinvests in our military readiness and troops, and implements new oversight tools as the Department of Defense undergoes its first audit. This legislation passed the House today by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 356 to 70. This legislation is now one step closer to the President’s desk. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-applauds-passage-conference-report-national-defense,Newhouse Applauds Passage of Conference Report for National Defense Authorization Act,2017-11-14,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) today released the following statement after voting in favor of the Conference Report to accompany H.R. 2810 - National Defense Authorization Act. The legislation authorizes funding for national defense and national security programs of the Department of Energy and now heads to President Trump for signature into law. “It is our solemn responsibility in Congress to provide for the national defense, and I was proud to support this legislation to invest in our military,” said Rep. Newhouse. “This legislation authorizes the largest increase in pay for our troops in eight years and equips the Armed Forces to do its job on our behalf. NDAA authorizes vital investment for Hanford cleanup to fulfill the moral and legal obligation of the federal government to fulfill its promise to our community. I am pleased that this legislation also includes authorization to improve firefighting capabilities at the Yakima Training Center.” The conference report for NDAA authorizes funding at $755,563,000 for the Richland Operations Office (RL), an increase from the President’s Budget Request of $716,192,000, and $1,504,311,000 for the Office of River Protection (ORP). Click here for a summary on the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Click here for top facts to know about FY 2018 NDAA.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-house-pass-national-defense-authorization-act,"Reichert, House Pass National Defense Authorization Act",2017-11-14,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – This evening, Congressman Reichert joined his colleagues on both sides of the aisle in passing the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2018, which authorizes funding for Department of Defense (DoD) programs, equipment, and personnel for the next fiscal year. “Today, the House upheld its constitutional responsibility to defend and ensure freedom for the American people by passing the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA gives our troops the essential resources they need to protect both themselves and our great country,” Rep. Reichert said. “As threats continue to change and grow around the world, we must support our military by making sure our service members are fully equipped with the proper tools they need to keep us safe. This year, I am proud that our troops will receive the largest pay raise in eight years, surviving military spouses will be provided for, and crumbling infrastructure will be restored.” “We must recognize the sacrifices made by our soldiers who put their lives on the line every day to protect our freedoms and their families who sacrifice so much. This is why I consistently vote to provide our troops and their families with the necessary resources and care they have earned and deserve. It is essential that we continue to support those who bear the burden of keeping our country safe and protecting our national security. I applaud my colleagues for passing this critical legislation as we send a clear message to the world that we will remain the world’s strongest military force.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/op-ed-after-30-years-time-simplify-tax-code,"Tri-City Herald Op-Ed: After 30 Years, Time to Simplify the Tax Code",2017-11-13,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"Have you met anyone who thinks the current federal tax code is simple or fair enough? As your congressman, I haven’t either. Clocking in at more than 70,000 pages, the current federal code is packed with confusing provisions and loopholes that tend to favor special interest groups and those lucky few “in the know.” The maze-like complexity of our current tax code renders it all but impenetrable to American families and business owners who do not have the resources to hire a specialist to decode it for them. The status quo is simply unfair. Reform is long past due. It has been over 30 years since we have enacted major tax reform, and we now have the opportunity to clear the cobwebs and dust off provisions to reduce the burden on taxpayers while spurring economic growth. I have listened to many stories from constituents across Central Washington about how the current tax code negatively affects families and businesses. Filing returns should not require hours of time and stress just to ensure that Uncle Sam is not taking an unfair chunk of your paycheck. Small businesses that are striving to expand and succeed should no longer be penalized with unfair rates. Family-owned farms and businesses should no longer be taxed twice, or even three times, after the passing of a loved one by an onerous death tax. No American should worry about whether a neighbor is paying less in taxes simply because they hired a better accountant. We need a tax code that is both fair and simple. This week, the House of Representatives is considering the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which is our plan for historic tax reform. While I believe this plan will benefit the whole country, it is important to understand how it will affect families in Central Washington. First, this plan is pro-taxpayer. The tax brackets are simplified and reduced for low- and middle-income Americans, allowing more people to keep more wages, while maintaining the 39.6 percent bracket for top earners. According to the Internal Revenue Service, over 80 percent of taxpayers in Washington’s Fourth Congressional District claim the standard deduction when filing taxes. With our reform in place, the standard deduction will double — from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals and from $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples. This means families in Central Washington would see an immediate benefit. Our plan is pro-family. It increases the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $1,600 per child and includes a tax credit for non-child dependents, such as elderly or disabled adults. Expanding support for families allows you to keep up with the costs to take care of your loved ones. I am also pleased that our plan maintains the Adoption Tax Credit, which makes adoption a more affordable choice. This plan is pro-growth. The bill aims to benefit small businesses by lowering the maximum tax rate and distinguishing between individual wages and business income. Our plan allows small businesses to write off loan interest and the cost of new equipment in order to expand and provide more jobs and higher paychecks for employees. Our plan will also incentivize American corporations and businesses to invest in the U.S. to spur economic development and increase wages in communities here at home. In fact, the Tax Foundation has estimated that over the next 10 years, more than 20,000 jobs would be created in Washington state, with an average wage increase of over $3,000. Simplifying our tax code to make it fairer is a priority of mine for Central Washington. I encourage you to read and learn more about the bill at www.fairandsimple.gop. As the act moves through regular order in Congress, I am keeping a close eye on any amendments adopted to examine their impact on the Fourth Congressional District. Dan Newhouse of Sunnyside represents Washington’s Fourth Congressional District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-able-financial-planning-act-included-tax-cuts-jobs-act/,McMorris Rodgers’ ABLE Financial Planning Act Included in Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,2017-11-09,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 9, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today released the following statement after her ABLE Financial Planning Act was included in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that passed the House Ways and Means Committee this afternoon. “This is must-pass legislation to provide tax relief to families and I’m so pleased to see my legislation, the ABLE Financial Planning Act, included in the bill that passed today out of Ways and Means,” said McMorris Rodgers. “This means that people who have been saving for their child’s college tuition can rollover that money into a savings account specifically created for individuals with disabilities. We need to be empowering those with disabilities and their families to save and invest in their futures, and that’s exactly what this bill will help do.” NOTE: In April, the Congresswoman introduced a bipartisan package of legislation known as ABLE 2.0. This package included three bills, one of which was the ABLE Financial Planning Act (H.R. 1897). This legislation allows for rollovers from a 529 to a 529A account, but still maintains the annual contribution limit of $14,000. This would allow individuals who may have been saving for their child’s college tuition, which is now no longer needed, to rollover up to the maximum contribution each year until the 529 account has been depleted. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-holds-subcommittee-hearing-newhouse-costa-proposed-legislation,House Holds Subcommittee Hearing on Newhouse-Costa Proposed Legislation,2017-11-09,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – The Environment Subcommittee of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing this morning to examine a Discussion Draft of the Farm Regulatory Certainty Act. The proposal is for bipartisan legislation lead by Congressmen Dan Newhouse (R-WA-4) and Jim Costa (D-CA-16) that would amend the citizen suit provision of the Resources Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) with respect to agricultural operations. The Newhouse/Costa Discussion Draft of the Farm Regulatory Certainty Act aims to protect farmers, who are trying to do the right thing and comply with applicable requirements, from citizen lawsuits if the state or Environmental Protection Agency is already actively working with the agricultural operation through a civil, criminal, or administrative action to address identified problems.  “This legislation is straightforward and limited in scope to the citizen suit provisions under RCRA. Simply put, this legislation covers only the agricultural activities that are already exempt under EPA’s RCRA regulations,” said Rep. Newhouse, who is sponsoring the bill. “I firmly believe farmers have and must continue to lead the charge on good stewardship and conservation. The discussion draft before you today seeks to protect farmers who are trying to do the right thing with state or federal agencies to address nutrient management issues.” “Farmers, ranchers, and dairymen know better than anyone just how much they depend on the land for their livelihoods, and they have always been some of our best environmental stewards,” said Rep. Jim Costa, a Democratic cosponsor of the bill. “My home state of California produces more food and fiber than any other state, all while complying with some of the most rigorous environmental regulations in the world. Farmers acting in good faith to improve their environmental practices should not be targeted by lawsuits while they are actively working to meet regulations. This commonsense legislation would go a long way to both improve the environment and allow our San Joaquin Valley to continue to put food on dinner tables throughout the nation.” A background memo, legislative text, witness testimony and an archived webcast can be found online HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-gop-members-congress-urge-action-daca,"Newhouse, GOP Members of Congress Urge Action on DACA",2017-11-09,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) led a press conference in the U.S. Capitol with 13 House GOP Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE), Joe Barton (R-TX), Susan Brooks (R-IN), Ryan Costello (R-PA), Carlos Curbelo (R-FL), John Faso (R-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Darrell Issa (R-CA), Peter King (R-NY), Leonard Lance (R-NJ), Erik Paulsen (R-MN), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), and Fred Upton (R-MI). The members urged that Congress act and support ongoing negotiations led by House Republican leaders for a legislative solution for beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program before the end of 2017. “We need a solution to get 218 House votes, 60 votes in the Senate, or there is no deal,” said Rep. Newhouse. “No bill is going to be perfect, but inaction is just not acceptable.” CLICK HERE TO WATCH Photos available here. Members released the following statements after the press conference: Rep. Susan Brooks (R-IN): “Thank you to the many DACA recipients from the Fifth District of Indiana who have shared their stories with me. These young people are contributing in significant ways to our communities. We need to fix this problem in a bipartisan way because they have grown up in our schools, with our children, pledged allegiance to our flag, and are part of this country. I’d like to thank my colleague Congressman Newhouse for emphasizing the importance of finding a compassionate resolution to their immigration status.  Sending these motivated young people back to countries they are not familiar with is not the solution.” Rep. Ryan Costello (R-PA): “We in Congress need to provide a humane, permanent, and constitutional solution to this issue. It is not something that can just be done by a president. It does require Congress to step up and legislate, and to do so in a way that reflects the best about our country, which is that we are a compassionate people,” Rep. Costello said during the press conference. “We owe it to the American people to demonstrate that we can do this on a bipartisan basis. Candidly, I would add this, let’s not wait until five months and 30 days, let’s do this earlier rather than later, and let’s demonstrate that we can work together and that we’re doing this for the right reasons.” Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA): “From dangerous ‘Sanctuary City’ policies to the national security threat posed by our compromised borders, it is clear that our immigration system is broken and there is much that needs to be done to fix it. Congress must reassert its authority and work to fix our immigration system by taking into account all aspects of the issue – from enacting 'Kate's Law' to deport those who commit crimes while here illegally, to defunding sanctuary cities, to securing operational control of our borders, to treating with compassion those children who were brought here due to no fault of their own, in a manner that is becoming of American ideals and values."" Rep. Leonard Lance (R-NJ): “The best legislative solutions start from the middle out; that is why I am so encouraged to stand here besides my Republican colleagues. Together, on this stage, we represent a belief that DREAMERs are a part of the larger American family and we recognize our obligation to keep the promise we made to the DREAMERs by working together towards a compassionate legislative solution that would allow them to remain here.” Rep. Erik Paulsen (R-MN): “This morning shows once again there is a growing consensus for a solution to help young people who came to our country through no fault of their own and for all practical purposes are Americans. I will continue to support helping the 6,000 DACA recipients in Minnesota to ensure they remain valuable contributors to our state and country."" While Rep. Dave Reichert (R-WA) was not able to attend the press conference because of the tax reform markup in the Ways and Means Committee, he joins his colleagues in support of these efforts. “As the end of the year approaches, the need for a legislative solution to the DACA program has become increasingly urgent. DACA recipients were brought here by no fault of their own and see America as their country and their home. These children have contributed so much to our communities and I believe punishing them for a crime they did not commit is not in the American DNA. It is incumbent on us to make sure they have every opportunity to live the American Dream. Congress must act immediately.” Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL): “I’m thankful to my colleague, Dan, for arranging this press conference to show Republican support for finding a legislative fix for Dreamers. These young men and women, who contribute positively to our nation, deserve our support and help to stay here. For many, the United States is the only country they have truly known and to deport them to their countries of birth would not only be a hardship but would rob our nation of an important talent pool that can innovate and help us grow.” Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI): ""Let's get a bill to the president’s desk that he can sign and say 'Merry Christmas' to a lot of folks across the country.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-and-colleagues-introduce-bill-will-reduce-tariffs-american-businesses,Reichert and Colleagues Introduce Bill That Will Reduce Tariffs for American Businesses,2017-11-09,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA), Chairman of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, joined Ways and Means Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX), Ranking Member Richard Neal (D-MA) and several other members in introducing the bipartisan Miscellaneous Tariff Bill Act of 2017 (H.R. 4318). By suspending or reducing tariffs, this bill relieves U.S. manufacturers of added costs that have hampered their ability to produce more American products and expand their business. Chairman Reichert recently held a hearing in the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee on the issue entitled, “Miscellaneous Tariff Bill: Providing Relief to U.S. Manufacturers Through the New MTB Process.” “American manufacturers and the products they make are the best in the world,” said Chairman Reichert. “But steep tariffs make it difficult for them to reach their full potential. The MTB will cut unnecessary costs for American businesses and allow these job-creators to expand, better compete globally, and hire more American workers in Washington State and across the country.” In 2016, Congress passed the bipartisan American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act (AMCA) that established an open and transparent process for consideration of the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill (MTB). Over the past year, American businesses have been able to petition the International Trade Commission (ITC) for tariff relief on their products, so long as it met the requirements outlined in the AMCA. Based on the petition requests and recommendations from the ITC, this legislation provides tariff relief on products for hundreds of businesses across the country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-ways-and-means-committee-votes-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act,"Reichert, Ways and Means Committee Votes on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act",2017-11-09,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA), and his colleagues on the Ways and Means Committee finished a week-long discussion and voted on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.  “From years of traveling around Washington’s Eighth District, from the suburbs of Issaquah to the farmlands of Chelan, I hear the same thing from middle income, hardworking taxpayers. They want to keep more of their hard-earned dollars, provide for their families, and give back to their communities,” Rep. Reichert said. “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is bold and changes the status-quo giving relief to families and making the tax code more competitive, so our businesses can grow, hire more workers, and invest here at home. This will get our economy booming and lead to the creation of more jobs across our communities. I remember the feeling I had when I got my first job. I not only felt a sense of accomplishment, but I had more hope for the future. This plan will help more people experience this hope and put more money back in their pocket, which is why I supported this bill.” New research has been released about the bill that shows how communities across Washington State and Washington’s Eighth District will greatly benefit under this plan. According to the Tax Foundation, 21,875 new full time jobs will be created in Washington State. Additionally, in the Eighth District, a middle income, 4-person household will receive a $3,654 tax cut from these reforms.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-hydropower-policy-modernization-act-passes-house/,McMorris Rodgers’ Hydropower Policy Modernization Act Passes House,2017-11-08,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 8, 2017) – Hydropower helped build the Northwest, and still today it provides the region with clean, renewable, reliable, and affordable energy to power homes, businesses, and communities. Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers’ (WA-05) Hydropower Policy Modernization Act (H.R. 3043) passed the United States House of Representatives by a vote of 257-166. This legislation would streamline hydropower relicensing processes in America to encourage the continued use and expansion of low-cost, renewable hydroelectric energy in Washington state and beyond. “Hydropower is crucial to our way of life in the Pacific Northwest. It’s clean, it’s renewable, it’s reliable, and it’s one of the reasons why we in Eastern Washington enjoy some of the most affordable electricity rates in America,” said McMorris Rodgers. “This bill won’t change outcomes or environmental standards. Instead, it will speed up the relicensing process and save time and money. Providing relief from these costly and time-consuming regulatory processes will encourage investment in hydropower so we can continue to support this clean energy in our region.” In a letter of support for the Hydropower Policy Modernization Act, Avista Corp. in Spokane said, “H.R. 3043, among its other provisions, facilitates constructive engagement in the licensing process by affirmatively designating FERC as the coordinating agency… Moreover, it gives licensees the incentive to invest in technological upgrades to a licensed project and to undertake environmental measures beyond the requirements of the existing license – all in an environmentally-sensitive manner.” You can read the full letter of support from Avista Corp. here.  Today on the House floor, the Congresswoman spoke during debate of the legislation, offering her rationale on the importance of this legislation to Eastern Washington. Watch her full remarks here: THE BACKGROUND: On average in the U.S. it takes only 18 months to license a new natural gas facility but can take up to eight years or longer to license a new hydropower project or relicense an existing facility. The existing hydropower fleet provides good-paying jobs across the country and produces enough low-cost electricity to power 85 million homes and avoids nearly 190 million metric tons of CO2 emissions each year. The U.S. Department of Energy’s 2016 Hydropower Vision Report identified nearly 50 GW of new hydropower and pumped storage growth potential by 2050 GW, which would avoid 5.6 billion metric tons of CO2 emissions, save an estimated $209 million in avoided damages, and create more than 195,000 jobs. Despite these substantial benefits, U.S. hydropower resources are at risk due to an outdated and lengthy licensing process for both proposed new projects and existing projects requiring reauthorization. THE SOLUTION: H.R. 3043 addresses these problems without compromising environmental protections. The bill improves the process by promoting accountability and transparency, requiring greater cooperation among federal and state agencies, and reducing needless duplication of efforts. This bill would streamline the hydropower relicensing process by allowing FERC to extend preliminary 4-year permits for hydropower projects and require FERC to establish a process for setting a schedule for a licensing review. Finally, the bill would also modify the federal definition of renewable energy to correctly include hydroelectric energy. Without these hydropower licensing process improvements we risk losing investment opportunities in new hydropower infrastructure which would provide consumers with affordable electricity and expand the use of clean, renewable energy. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-and-larsen-send-their-support-apec-leaders-week-vietnam,Reichert and Larsen Send Their Support for APEC Leaders' Week in Vietnam,2017-11-08,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Representatives Reichert and Larsen released the following statement about the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' meetings taking place in Vietnam this week. “As Co-Chairs of the Congressional APEC Caucus, we hope the APEC Leaders’ Week in Vietnam is another successful marker for APEC. Washington state has benefited tremendously from engagement through APEC. With 40 percent of jobs tied to trade, Washington is one of the most trade-dependent states in the country. Greater access to this growing region of the world will greatly benefit all Americans, particularly, American farmers, manufacturers, workers, and small businesses seeking to compete, grow, and hire more workers here at home. Our thoughts are also with all of those in Vietnam that have been impacted by Typhoon Damrey, which struck right before the APEC summit.” This week, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ meetings take place in Vietnam. APEC is a forum for 21 countries bordering the Pacific Ocean to promote trade liberalization and investment between Asia-Pacific countries. The United States is a founding member. To highlight the importance of APEC, Representatives Reichert and Larsen recently launched the bipartisan House APEC Caucus. Both Members also supported legislation to reauthorize the APEC Business Travel Card that was signed into law last week.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-kilmer-hurd-and-hanabusa-interior-secretary-park-maintenance-backlog-must-be,"Reichert, Kilmer, Hurd, and Hanabusa to Interior Secretary: Park Maintenance Backlog Must Be Solved",2017-11-08,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Dave Reichert (R-WA), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Will Hurd (R-TX), and Colleen Hanabusa (D-HI) sent a bipartisan letter, with the support of 14 of their colleagues, to the Secretary of the Interior, Ryan Zinke, opposing a recent proposal issued by the National Park Service to significantly increase the peak season entrance fees at 17 of the Nation’s most visited national parks.  The letter highlights concerns over the potential impacts to visitor access and the economies of gateway communities and calls on the Secretary to work with Congress to develop a proposal to responsibly address the maintenance backlog. “The proposed increase would roughly triple the cost of visiting these parks during the peak season,” wrote the Members. “This increase would have a profound effect on both those seeking to visit the parks, as well as the gateway communities who depend on these visitors to support local businesses and economies. We believe that all options should be on the table and urge the Administration to continue working with Congress in a bipartisan manner to develop a comprehensive solution, including increasing federal investments that will generate the kind of revenue needed to meaningfully address the backlog without impacting visitation.” The Members also highlight the National Park Service Legacy Act (H.R. 2584) as a bipartisan strategy to address the maintenance backlog without significantly increasing entrance fees and urge Secretary Zinke to consider this legislation as part of a responsible, long-term approach to repairing roads, visitor facilities, trails, and other park structures. The Legacy Act would provide dedicated annual federal funding from unobligated offshore and onshore mineral royalties to pay down the $11.3 billion maintenance backlog. The NPS is accepting public comments on the proposed fee increase through November 23rd, but the letter calls on the Secretary to extend the comment period to allow individuals sufficient time to weigh in. The full text of the letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399060,"Jaime Herrera Beutler Shares Southwest Washington Veterans Photos, Stories",2017-11-07,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler today launched a presentation at jhb.house.gov of the photos and stories of Southwest Washington veterans who participated in the Veterans History Project set up by the Library of Congress. The stories and photos will run through the month of November. share: f t U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler today launched a presentation at jhb.house.gov of the photos and stories of Southwest Washington veterans who participated in the Veterans History Project set up by the Library of Congress. The stories and photos will run through the month of November. “Through my efforts to bring the Veterans History Project here to Southwest Washington, I’ve been humbled to hear the first-hand accounts of military combat from the men and women who served in World War II, Vietnam, Korea, Iraq, and on the front lines around the globe.  I’m extremely pleased to share a few of the highlights of those stories that are being archived in the Library of Congress to commemorate those individuals for Veterans Day – and beyond,” said Jaime. “As this region’s federal representative in Congress, I seek to honor our nation’s heroes by helping veterans get the services they earned through legislation and individual assistance. I think it’s equally important that the rest of us understand the threats they faced, sacrifices they made and challenges they endured to protect our nation – and this presentation offers a glimpse of those experiences.” Residents can view the special Veterans’ Day tribute on Jaime’s website at jhb.house.gov throughout the month of November. The veterans featured in this slideshow all participated in the Veterans History Project events Jaime held last month in Clark and Lewis counties. The veterans’ recorded interviews are currently in the process of being submitted for preservation at the Library of Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kilmer-newhouse-bill-fix-veterans-healthcare-system-mismanagement-passes,Kilmer & Newhouse Bill to Fix Veterans Healthcare System Mismanagement Passes House,2017-11-06,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed a bill originally introduced by U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) to force the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to move forward on fixes to its management issues. The VA Management Alignment Act of 2017 would direct the head of the VA to issue a report to Congress detailing the steps they will take to reorganize and effectively improve veterans’ access to quality care. It is now heads to the Senate for a vote before reaching the President’s desk.    The legislation, supported by the American Legion and the American Federation of Government Employees, follows the release of comprehensive studies that uncovered management problems at the VA. The reports that have been issued so far, and others written by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), have uncovered that the VA did not follow through on internal and Congressional recommendations to fix the problems of manipulated wait times and management failures, and highlighted problems with the VA’s human resource department. Additional reports will be released to the public this year. “This Friday is Veterans Day, when we honor the sacrifice of the men and women who have served in our Armed Forces,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I can think of no better way to honor our veterans than improving the care that they have earned and that our nation has promised. I am grateful that this legislation has been approved by the House to address mismanagement in the VA.” “We need to have the backs of those who serve,” said Rep. Kilmer. “Stories and reports about manipulated wait times and mismanagement in our VA system proved that systemic reforms are needed. I’m glad our bill is moving forward so we can improve care and get veterans the services they have earned.” “AMVETS thanks Representatives Kilmer and Newhouse for their leadership in offering this important bill to better serve those who have stood up to serve this country” said AMVETS National Executive Director Joseph Chenelly. “The VA Management Alignment Act will ensure that those in all levels of employment are upholding their commitments and dedication to serving veterans.” The bill from Kilmer and Newhouse calls for the VA to deliver their report to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives within 180 days of the act being signed into law. The report would spell out the roles and responsibilities for senior staff and organizational units within the VA and how they work together to promote efficiency and accountability. In 2014, news reports exposed patient delays at the Phoenix VA and other facilities across the country. A national audit of the VA was conducted and it was found at the time that the VA Puget Sound hospital had new patients waiting an average of 59 days for an appointment. Nearly 100,000 veterans use the VA Puget Sound system. Nationally, the audit found that 13 percent of VA schedulers reported that supervisors told them to manipulate appointments to make wait times look shorter.  The original GAO report evaluated how well the VA followed through on recommendations to change management practices from internal and outside reviews of the organization. It also looked at how well a realignment of Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISN) from 21 to 18 was being carried out. Each VISN oversees all VA facilities and personnel in separate regions of the country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-never-too-late-honor-our-heroes,COLUMN: Never Too Late to Honor Our Heroes,2017-11-06,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"As Americans, our heartfelt hope is that all of our heroes receive due recognition for great bravery and sacrifice. Our collective memory as a nation must expand to include all of our heroes’ stories of honor and service. This November 11th, on Veterans Day, our nation will memorialize the sacrifice of veterans like my friend, Leslie Amundson. From my hometown of Sunnyside, ‘Les’ served as an Army Air Corps B-17 pilot during World War II. On his first mission in 1943, his plane was shot down over the Dutch countryside. Les and his crew were assisted by the Dutch resistance and spent the next month in hiding before they were captured by the Gestapo. Les and his crew spent the next 18 months at the POW camp, Stalag Luft, near the Baltic Sea. Not all of them survived the harsh, freezing conditions, but Les did. After his liberation, Les came back home to Sunnyside, where he married his wife, Helen, started a family, and farmed and served his community. Leslie Amundson passed away on October 13th of this year at the age of 97, as the roll of honor of our living WWII veterans dwindles. Many of our veterans have been recipients of our gratitude through national recognition, but others have slipped through the cracks. It is never too late to thank them. This November 11th, we honor veterans like Gregario Azurin of Wapato. Born in the Philippines, Gregorio served in the U.S. Army on the other side of the globe in World War II, in the Pacific theater. Gregorio was one of a quarter-million Filipinos who joined with the U.S. to fight against the Japanese. 57,000 of those serving alongside U.S. forces lost their lives. Although these Filipino soldiers were promised citizenship for their service, few received it. There are currently 18,000 living Filipino veterans. Gregorio, now 91, became an American citizen in 1995. He is one of two-dozen Filipino veterans in the Yakima Valley out of more than 200 living WWII veterans in Washington state who fought in the Philippines. For too long, Filipino veterans have not received acknowledgment for their role in winning the war. On October 25th of this year, I was privileged to attend a Congressional Gold Medal ceremony for all Filipino WWII veterans in Emancipation Hall in the U.S Capitol. Congress bestowed its highest honor, the Congressional Gold Medal, on all of these veterans. The ceremony represented a nation’s long overdue gratitude. These are just two stories of almost 40,000 veterans in the 4th District, and each has sacrificed for our nation.  Although our veterans may serve with honor, they do not serve for public praise. As Americans, it is our duty to ensure that honorable service never goes unrecognized. For the service of all our veterans, past and present – like Leslie Amundson, whose memory we cherish, and Gregario Azurin – we say thank you.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-teaching-health-center-extension-passes-house-along-chip-reauthorization/,McMorris Rodgers’ Teaching Health Center Extension Passes House Along with CHIP Reauthorization,2017-11-03,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 3, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released this statement following House passage of legislation to reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which included her bill to extend the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program: “Bringing more physicians to Eastern Washington is one of my top priorities. Teaching Health Centers, like the Spokane Teaching Health Clinic, can help address the stark reality of doctor shortages in rural and underserved areas. The program is vital to the health of our communities, which is why I’ve fought every step of the way to ensure it can continue with not just sufficient funding, but a significant increase,” said McMorris Rodgers. “I’m also proud that we moved the Children’s Health Insurance Program over the finish line here in the House, and I hope the Senate considers it immediately. It provides much needed certainty to the parents of more than 1 million kids in Washington state whose children rely on the program for health care coverage.” This morning, the Congresswoman spoke on the House floor in favor of this legislation. You can see her remarks here: NOTE: In July, Rep. McMorris Rodgers introduced the Training the Next Generation of Primary Care Doctors Act of 2017 to reauthorize the THCGME program. In October, this legislation passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee as part of a larger package of bills. Currently, the physician-to-population ratio in rural communities is staggering. Only about 10% of physicians practice in these areas, even though almost a quarter of the population lives there. Compared to doctors who train in the traditional Medicare program, those trained at Teaching Health Centers are 60% more likely to practice primary care and 30% more likely to work in underserved areas. Reauthorizing this program will help to meet the health care needs of rural and underserved communities through improved access to primary care medical professionals. Outside support for this legislation is widespread. You can find a list of supporters and their statements here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-extension-childrens-health-insurance-program,"Newhouse Statement on Extension of Children's Health Insurance Program, Community Health Center Fund, and Teaching Health Centers",2017-11-03,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after the House voted to approve the CHAMPIONING HEALTHY KIDS Act. The CHAMPIONING HEALTHY KIDS Act combines health care funding extensions included in H.R. 3921, the Helping Ensure Access for Little Ones, Toddlers, and Hopeful Youth by Keeping Insurance Delivery Stable Act of 2017 or the HEALTHY KIDS Act, and H.R. 3922, the Community Health And Medical Professionals Improve Our Nation Act of 2017 or the CHAMPION Act: “I was pleased to support Community Health Centers in Central Washington with today’s House vote reauthorizing the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and other vital health programs that are essential to ensuring that Americans continue to have access to these critically important services.” The CHAMPIONING HEALTHY KIDS Act: Funds the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). CHIP provides health care to lower-income children, and this bill would extend the funding for five years.  Extends funding for the Community Health Center Fund (CHCF) for two additional years. This funding is used at federally qualified health centers, which provide an array of comprehensive health services to medically-underserved populations. Community health centers serve over 280,000 constituents in Washington's 4th District every year.  Provides funding for Teaching Health Centers, so we can continue to train primary care doctors and retain them at community-based clinics in rural areas. With three Teaching Health Centers in Central Washington, this funding is important to ensure that we have qualified, well-educated doctors providing care for families in less-populated areas.  Click here for more information.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-supports-chip-reauthorization-funding-community-health-centers,"Reichert Supports CHIP Reauthorization, Funding for Community Health Centers",2017-11-03,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC –Today, Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) supported and the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3922, the CHAMPIONING HEALTHY KIDS Act. The bill authorizes a five-year extension of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a two-year extension of the Community Health Center Fund, and a two-year extension of the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program along with additional public health programs, including the National Health Service Corps and the Special Diabetes Program for Type I Diabetes. “Nearly nine million children from low and middle income families across the country depend on care provided by the CHIP program,” said Rep. Reichert. “Now families will have the certainty their children will continue to receive quality health services, including dental care, prescription medication, and regular doctor’s visits.” “With many rural communities throughout our region, funding for Community Health Centers and the Teaching Health Centers Graduate Medical Education program will benefit countless patients on the eastern side of the Cascades and throughout the 8th District. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to take swift action in passing legislation to continue these vital health programs.” Highlights: CHIP Reauthorization: Extends CHIP program for five years - through Fiscal Year 2022 Federal funding will increase from $21.5 billion in FY2018 to $25.9 billion in FY2022. Community Health Center Fund: Extends for two-years at current funding levels ($3.6 billion per year) the Community Health Center Fund.  In 2015, community health centers employed nearly 190,000 people and served over 24 million patients. One in 13 people nationwide rely on a health center for their health care needs. Teaching Health Centers Graduate Medical Education: Extends for two-years the THCGME program and more than doubles the funding to $127 million per year. This is a residency program for primary care physicians and dentists who are based out of community health centers. The program trains primary care physicians in these community-based and often rural settings to help attract the next generation of physicians to serve in rural communities and address physician shortages. For further background on the bill, click HERE",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399013,"Reps. DeFazio, Walden, Larsen, Herrera Beutler Applaud New Tariffs on Canadian Softwood Lumber Imports",2017-11-02,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reps. Peter DeFazio (OR-04), Greg Walden (OR-02), Rick Larsen (WA-02) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) today released the following statement in response to the announcement by the U.S. Department of Commerce of final antidumping and countervailing duties on softwood lumber imports from Canada: share: f t Reps. Peter DeFazio (OR-04), Greg Walden (OR-02), Rick Larsen (WA-02) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) today released the following statement in response to the announcement by the U.S. Department of Commerce of final antidumping and countervailing duties on softwood lumber imports from Canada: “The duties announced today by the Commerce Department will provide much-needed relief for the U.S. softwood lumber industry. Since the expiration of the last Softwood Lumber Trade Agreement in 2015, Canada’s share of the U.S. softwood lumber industry has crept up to one-third of the market, devastating U.S. producers. These new antidumping and countervailing duties will help to prevent Canadian producers from unfairly dumping artificially cheap products into our markets and will help level the playing field for U.S. producers competing against Canada’s government-subsidized timber.” “Although the U.S. repeatedly came to the negotiating table with reasonable offers, the Canadians rejected our proposals, leaving our Commerce Department no choice but to move forward with imposing duties on Canadian softwood imports. Thanks to these new duties, the U.S. lumber industry will finally have room to grow to its full potential without the stifling constraints of unfairly-traded Canadian lumber.” Since the expiration of the most-recent Softwood Lumber Agreement, negotiations between the U.S. and Canada to regulate softwood trade have been unsuccessful, l leaving the U.S. market unprotected against the increasing flood of illegally subsidized Canadian imports.  After no new agreement was reached by late 2016, representatives from the U.S. timber industry had no choice but to petition the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to file antidumping and countervailing duties against Canadian lumber producers. Under long-standing U.S. trade law, U.S. industries have a right to offsetting duties against illegally subsidized and dumped imports which threaten to put domestic producers out of business. The U.S. Department of Commerce earlier this year investigated the softwood lumber market and found that the Canadian government heavily subsidizes their softwood lumber production, artificially lowering production costs for Canadian mills and ultimately allowing them to dump softwood lumber products into the U.S. at below fair-value prices, putting at-risk the 350,000 jobs directly and indirectly associated with the U.S. sawmill and wood preservation industry.  The remedy announced today will help counteract Canada’s unfair trade practices by enforcing antidumping and countervailing duties of between 9.92 and 23.76 percent on Canadian softwood imports. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-loebsack-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-provide-access-durable-medical-equipment/,"McMorris Rodgers, Loebsack Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Access to Durable Medical Equipment",2017-11-02,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 2, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) and Congressman Dave Loebsack (IA-02) introduced the bipartisan Protecting Home Oxygen & Medical Equipment (HOME) Access Act of 2017, to preserve access to durable medical equipment (DME), especially in rural communities, by addressing severe cuts to reimbursement rates. Specifically, this legislation delays the July 2016 cuts to DME payments in rural areas, which slashed Medicare reimbursement rates by more than 50 percent on average, and shields payment rates for oxygen concentrators from an outdated regulation that was never intended to apply to rates derived from the Competitive Bidding Program (CBP). “From seniors to those with disabilities or chronic conditions, people in Eastern Washington rely on durable medical equipment to go about their daily lives—whether it’s to simply walk around without falling or to breathe normally when their lungs can no longer do it on their own,” said McMorris Rodgers. “But this equipment cannot save lives if it isn’t made available to those who need it most, especially in rural communities where we know barriers to access health care already exist. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to rectify these cuts and provide relief for patients in Eastern Washington and across the county.” “Slashing reimbursement rates in rural areas for necessary medical equipment, such as oxygen machines, means many Iowans won’t have access to the often lifesaving equipment they need,” said Loebsack. “We must work to delay this regulation that hits rural communities hardest. I am pleased to work on a bipartisan basis with Rep. McMorris Rodgers and nearly 50 cosponsors to correct this decision and ensure patients, no matter where they live, have access to the medical equipment they need.” NOTE: In June, Rep. McMorris Rodgers sent a letter to Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma and previous Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price to express concerns with the cuts. The letter states, “Over numerous years, CMS has made significant policy and regulatory changes that have resulted in significant reductions in reimbursement. We are concerned that these reductions may have caused access issues for Medicare beneficiaries and shifted costs to other areas of Medicare.” In response, CMS announced a policy change addressing one of the four concerns in the letter, but did not propose changes to the DME CBP. This legislation aims to solve two of the remaining policy requests. You can view the letter and its 154 bipartisan cosigners here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-tax-cuts-jobs-act-must-pass-legislation/,McMorris Rodgers: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is “must-pass legislation”,2017-11-02,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 2, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the Ways and Means Committee announced the introduction of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, pro-growth and pro-family legislation that overhauls the outdated tax code to put working men and women first. Sponsored by Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX), the tax reform plan creates more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks for all Americans. To read the bill, text “TAXREFORM” to 50589. “We have a historic opportunity to improve people’s lives and make our economy boom. This is must-pass legislation for Republicans,” said McMorris Rodgers. “We are lifting the tax burden off hardworking Americans and their families. Our plan will put more money in people’s pockets, reward and restore the dignity of hard work, and encourage innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. “Our tax reform plan is written with working families in mind. Our plan means more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks, and that starts with helping those who are working hard but not getting ahead. American families deserve a tax code that doesn’t stand in the way of success. We want everyone to have the opportunity to realize their full potential and pursue their version of the American dream, and that begins with reforming the broken tax code. NOTE: Over the past year, the Congresswoman has been hosting a number of tax reform roundtable around Eastern Washington to hear directly from people about the issues they are facing in the tax code and the benefit that relief might bring to them and their families. The Congresswoman’s top priority is to hear directly from middle-class families about why tax reform is so important to them and their communities. For more information about the GOP’s tax reform plan visit FairandSimple.GOP or text “TAXREFORM” to 50589. Details for individuals and families: Lowers individual tax rates for low- and middle-income Americans to Zero, 12%, 25%, and 35% so people can keep more of the money they earn throughout their lives, and continues to maintain 39.6% for high-income Americans. Significantly increases the standard deduction to protect roughly double the amount of what you earn each year from taxes – from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals and $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples. Eliminates special-interest deductions that increase rates and complicate Americans’ taxes – so an individual or family can file their taxes on a form as simple as a postcard. Takes action to support American families by: Establishing a new Family Credit – which includes expanding the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $1,600 to help parents with the cost of raising children to help all families with their everyday expenses. Preserving the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to help families care for their children and older dependents such as a disabled grandparent who may need additional support.   Preserves the Earned Income Tax Credit to provide important tax relief for low-income Americans working to build better lives for themselves. Streamlines higher education benefits to help families save for and better afford college tuition and other education expenses. Continues the deduction for charitable contributions so people can continue to donate to their local church, charity, or community organization. Preserves the home mortgage interest deduction for existing mortgages and maintains the home mortgage interest deduction for newly purchased homes up to $500,000 – providing tax relief to current and aspiring homeowners. Continues to allow people to write off the cost of state and local property taxes up to $10,000. Retains popular retirement savings options such as 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts so Americans can continue to save for their future. Repeals the Alternative Minimum Tax so millions of individuals and families will no longer have to worry about calculating their taxes twice each year and pay the higher amount. Provides immediate relief from the Death Tax by doubling the exemption and repealing the Death Tax after six years. Family-owned farms and businesses will no longer have to worry about double or triple taxation from Washington when they pass down their life’s work to the next generation. Details for job creators of all sizes: Lowers the corporate tax rate to 20% – down from 35%, which today is the highest in the industrialized world – the largest reduction in the U.S. corporate tax rate in our nation’s history. Reduces the tax rate on the hard-earned business income of Main Street job creators to no more than 25% – the lowest tax rate on small business income since World War II. Establishes strong safeguards to distinguish between individual wage income and “pass-through” business income so Main Street tax relief goes to the local job creators it was designed to help most. Allows businesses to immediately write off the full cost of new equipment to improve operations and enhance the skills of their workers – unleashing the growth of jobs, productivity, and paychecks. Protects the ability of small businesses to write off the interest on loans that help these Main Street entrepreneurs start or expand a business, hire workers, and increase paychecks. Retains the low-income housing tax credit that encourages businesses to invest in affordable housing so families, individuals, and seniors can find a safe and comfortable place to call home. Preserves the Research & Development Tax Credit – encouraging our businesses and workers to develop cutting-edge “Made in America” products and services. Strengthens accountability rules for tax-exempt organizations to ensure the churches, charities, foundations, and other organizations receiving tax-exempt status are focused on helping people and communities in need. Modernizes our international tax system so America’s global businesses will no longer be held back by an outdated “worldwide” tax system that results in double taxation for many of our nation’s job creators. Makes it easier and far less costly for American businesses to bring home foreign earnings to invest in growing jobs and paychecks in our local communities. Prevents American jobs, headquarters, and research from moving overseas by eliminating incentives that now reward companies for shifting jobs, profits, and manufacturing plants abroad. The House Ways and Means Committee will mark up the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on November 6, 2017. CLICK HERE to read the full legislative text of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. CLICK HERE to read the section-by-section summary of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. CLICK HERE to read the policy highlights in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. CLICK HERE to read examples of how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Americans of all walks of life CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Middle-Income Americans. CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help Main Street businesses. CLICK HERE to read how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will unleash American competitiveness and create American jobs. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/give-middle-class-families-tax-break,Give Middle Class Families a Tax Break,2017-11-02,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. –Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement on the House Republicans’ legislation, The Tax Cut and Jobs Act, to provide historic reform to our nation’s tax code: “For the first time in more than thirty years, we have the historic opportunity for major reform to the tax code to reduce the burden on American families and spur economic growth,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Middle class taxpayers need a break, and our bill provides it. Under our plan, a typical middle-income family of four that earns the median household income will receive a $1,182 tax cut. Our plan allows American small businesses and corporations to be more competitive and hire more workers. I am excited to work with my colleagues on this reform to simplify the tax code, help families, and stimulate job creation.” Fast facts on the tax reform legislation unveiled today: Lowers individual tax rates for low- and middle- income Americans to zero, 12%, 25%, and 35% so people can keep more of the money they earn throughout their lives, and continues to maintain 39.6% for high-income Americans. Significantly increases the standard deduction to protect roughly double the amount of what Americans earn each year from taxes – from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals and $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples. Expands Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $1,600 to help parents with the cost of raising children and providing a credit of $300 for each parent and non-child dependent to help all families with their everyday expenses. Preserves the home mortgage interest deduction for existing mortgages and maintains the home mortgage interest deduction for newly purchased homes up to $500,000 – providing tax relief to current and aspiring homeowners. Continues to allow people to write off cost of state and local property taxes up to $10,000. According to the Internal Revenue Service data, 80.4% of residents of the 4th Congressional District claim the standard deduction when filing. The average amount of itemized deductions in the 4th Congressional District is $21,075, below the state average of $24,660 and the national average of $27,830. Congressional district data available here. Click here for additional policy highlights. Click here to read the legislation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-ways-and-means-committee-introduce-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act,"Reichert, Ways and Means Committee Introduce the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act",2017-11-02,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Dave Reichert, (R-WA), and his colleagues on the Ways and Means Committee introduced the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This legislation marks a once in a generation opportunity to revamp the tax code and increase paychecks for middle class families. “It’s time to get our economy booming again,” said Rep. Reichert. “Families across Washington and Americans around the country want more money in their pockets, higher wages, and to have the confidence they can save for their future. Today, after years of fighting to give American families a better deal, we have released a tax plan that puts American workers and families first, supports our job-creators, and strengthens America’s competitiveness across the globe.” “Freedom is the American way, but the current tax code is holding us back threatening our livelihood and our future. We must rework our tax code so it is working for the American people, not the other way around. Our bold, job-creating tax plan will free Americans to focus on the things in life that matter and position American businesses to expand, compete, and hire more American workers here at home. This is our chance - there is too much at stake to let this once in a generation opportunity slip away.” The full text of the The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act can be found HERE. A section-by-section summary of the bill can be found HERE. Congressman Reichert and Members of the Ways and Means Committee are scheduled to begin marking up the bill on Monday, November 6th.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399011,"Jaime Herrera Beutler, U.S. House Vote to Improve Health of Federal Forests",2017-11-01,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler helped the U.S. House advance a bipartisan bill reforming the care for federal forests by preventatively reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfire and protecting against insect and disease infestations while maintaining environmental safeguards. share: f t Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler helped the U.S. House advance a bipartisan bill reforming the care for federal forests by preventatively reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfire and protecting against insect and disease infestations while maintaining environmental safeguards. The Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2017, sponsored by Rep. Brad Westerman, passed the U.S. House today as a response by Congress to the wildfire season that decimated 915,145 acres of federal forestland in Oregon and Washington alone. “With the recent wildfires that drove people from their homes and scorched the habitat of countless endangered species, we are unfortunately reaping what was sown through 20-plus years of failed forest management. Skamania County was once the envy of other counties; now it struggles to pay for basic police protection and essential school services, and we have diseased forests and declining wildlife numbers to show for it. The bipartisan bill we passed today begins to reform this complete mismanagement of our forests in a manner that focuses on healthier ecosystems while preserving environmental safeguards,” said Jaime. “For too long, the ‘collaborative’ process that is supposed to foster the responsible management of our federal forests has been trumped by extremist lawsuits that block even the most modest management attempts,” Jaime continued. “This bill ensures that extensive public input is still sought and that the environmental safeguards of the Northwest Forest Plan are still met, but that true collaboration will lead to forest management efforts agreed to by all – and not dictated by the lawyers of Portland- and Seattle-based extremist groups.  “We have a choice. We can continue the status quo and have another wildfire season like this last one that is estimated to have emitted as much carbon from the California fires as every car in that state combined last year. We can continue to not manage our forests in the name of ‘clean water,’ and then allow wildfires to burn so hot they melt the soil and cause massive erosion that destroys water quality. Or we can move forward with a bipartisan solution that provides protection to our national forest system by reducing the number and intensity of wildfires through better, more responsible management.” Highlights of the bill: Permanently solves the wildfire “borrowing” problem by allowing FEMA to transfer limited funds to the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management when the rest of their wildfire suppression funding has been exhausted. Prevents wildfires and returns resiliency to federal forests. Encourages quick reforestation and speeds habitat improvement. Incentivizes and rewards collaboration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-helps-pass-resilient-federal-forests-act/,McMorris Rodgers Helps Pass Resilient Federal Forests Act,2017-11-01,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 1, 2017) – In recent years, Washington state has experienced some of the worst wildfire seasons in state history. These fires impact health and safety, and destroy the environment. Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) helped pass the Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2017, which would encourage active forest management and fix “fire borrowing” at the Forest Service. “The Forest Service has warned us that our forests are in terrible shape,” said McMorris Rodgers. “When you don’t actively manage forests, diseased and dying trees serve as fuel for the next major fire. We’ve seen these catastrophic fires right here in Eastern Washington, and we must take action to protect our forests and reduce our risk of fire. This legislation proposes real solutions to create healthier, more resilient forests.” Today, Rep. McMorris Rodgers spoke on the House floor in support of this legislation and responsible forest management. In case you missed it, you can watch her remarks here: Note: Currently, at least 58 million acres of federal forests are at high or very high risk of severe wildfire. More than 1.1 million acres of federal forest are in need of restoration and last year, the Forest Service was able to treat less than 204,000 acres, a fraction of what is needed. The Resilient Federal Forests Act includes language from the Congresswoman’s FORESTS Act of 2017. Building on the success of collaborative projects like the Colville National Forest A-Z project, this legislation calls for the Forest Service, local leaders, and private companies to work together to expedite environmental review. The legislation also includes a provision that encourages widespread collaboration between industry, conservation, and research institutions on the future of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT). Earlier this year, the Congresswoman introduced legislation to incentivize the use of CLT. Learn more about the bipartisan Timber Innovation Act here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-applauds-house-passage-bipartisan-bill-addressing-wildfires,Newhouse Applauds House Passage of Bipartisan Bill Addressing Wildfires,2017-11-01,2017,2017-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) applauded House passage of H.R. 2936, Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2017. Rep. Newhouse cosponsored the bipartisan legislation to address the growing economic and environmental threats of catastrophic wildfire. This legislation would tackle the issue of fire borrowing and provide targeted forest management reforms to dramatically improve the health and resiliency of our nation’s forests and rangelands. Rep. Newhouse said: “My constituents know as well as anyone the immense threat that wildfires pose to local communities. In just the past four years, the 4th District, my district, has seen the two largest fires in Washington state history. We have lost hundreds of homes, business, and structures. My constituents are still struggling to recover from the Carlton Complex Fire in 2014 and the Okanogan Complex Fire from 2015. We lost three firefighters that year. That truly is a high cost. Active forest management is a matter of saving lives and livelihoods, of protecting our communities, and ensuring our constituents’ healthy and safety, which is why I am proud to support this rule and the underlying legislation today.” See Rep. Newhouse’s full remarks below. In October, Rep. Newhouse supported passage of H.R. 2266, Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act, to provide relief for communities struck by hurricanes and catastrophic wildfires. Rep. Newhouse supported bipartisan House passage of similar legislation in 2016. For more information on H.R 2936, click here. WATCH CONGRESSMAN NEWHOUSE SPEAK ON HOUSE FLOOR TO SUPPORT FOREST MANAGEMENT REFORM Transcript: Rep. Newhouse: Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday, just yesterday, the Rules Committee met and reported a rule, House Resolution 595, providing for consideration of an important piece of legislation: H.R. 2936, the Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2017. The rule provides for consideration of H.R. 2936 under a structured rule, with four Democratic amendments made in order, two bipartisan amendments, and one Republican-led amendment made in order. Mr. Speaker, this rule provides for consideration of H.R. 2936, the Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2017, a bill that is critically important to my district in Central Washington state, and to rural, forested districts like it across the United States who continue to face devastation from catastrophic wildfires as we have seen just this last year a great example of. This bipartisan, comprehensive legislation is aimed at addressing the disastrous consequences of wildfires by utilizing the tools the Forest Service and other agencies have to reduce the threats posed by these wildfires, by insects, by disease infestation, and dangerous, old forest overgrowth that serves as a literal tinderbox for wildfires. This legislation will expedite and improve forest management activities in federal forests to counteract these threats. This legislation—spearheaded by my friend and colleague from Arkansas, Representative Bruce Westerman, who is a forester himself—is comprised of a truly comprehensive effort developed here in the People’s House. It’s bipartisan. Its bipartisan support demonstrates that the threat of catastrophic wildfires does not just impact a “red” or “blue” district—but rather poses a threat to communities across the United States. H.R. 2936 would provide federal land management agencies immediate tools to increase the pace and the scale of forest management projects to dramatically improve the health and resiliency of our national forests, ensuring robust protection of the environment. Active management leads to healthier forests. It’s that simple.  The legislation also allows expedited review for collaborative projects in federal forests, and removes incentives for special interest groups to file frivolous lawsuits. By requiring litigants opposing active management projects to propose an alternative management option, we can instill accountability into a system that is wrought with litigation. Additionally, the legislation bolsters locally-led forest management and hazardous fuel reduction projects to improve forest health. By engaging local stakeholders, we can lessen the severity and the costs of wildfires while protecting the communities and the environment. Mr. Speaker, another major component of our nation’s wildfire crisis is the broken system with which we fund firefighting suppression. When these firefighting costs exceed the existing budget, the U.S. Forest Service transfers funds from other vital forest management program accounts in order to pay for wildfire suppression.  I and a lot of other people in this chamber have been an outspoken critic of this dangerous, broken cycle, known as “fire-borrowing.” That also is a very bipartisan position that is taken. H.R. 2936 provides a major step forward in ending this cycle. By raiding accounts that provide for forest management programs which help prevent wildfires, we tie one hand behind our backs in the effort to both prevent and suppress these catastrophic wildfires. So this legislation will help end this longstanding problem. Mr. Speaker, my constituents know as well as anyone the immense threat that wildfires pose to local communities. In just the past four years, the 4th District of my state, my district, has seen the two largest fires in Washington state history. We have lost hundreds of homes, business, and structures.  My constituents are still struggling to recover from the Carlton Complex Fire in 2014 and the Okanogan Complex Fire from 2015.  We lost three firefighters that year. That truly is a high cost. Active forest management is a matter of saving lives and livelihoods, of protecting our communities, and ensuring our constituents’ healthy and safety, which is why I am proud to support this rule and the underlying legislation today. Mr. Speaker, as I have often said, we cannot continue to limp from one devastating fire season to the next. We must take significant steps toward reforestation, rehabilitation, and overall forest management. This bill, this legislation will do just that. We must begin to prevent, to suppress, to mitigate the threat of catastrophic wildfires, and the Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2017 will be a momentous opportunity to turn around our diseased and our overgrown federal forests. This legislation is essential and desperately needed to change the current path of forest management on public lands: It’s outdated, unsustainable and dangerous. Mr. Speaker, this is a straightforward rule, allowing for consideration of this critical piece of legislation that will help protect our rural communities and ensure that we are prepared to respond to devastating and catastrophic wildfires that have plagued many areas of our country the last few years. I support the rule’s adoption and I urge my colleagues to support both the rule and the underlying bill.  Before I yield to my colleague, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to share one last note. Just a few weeks ago, the new Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, Tony Tooke, came to Capitol Hill and briefed some of my colleagues—me included—regarding this year’s devastating wildfire season. He reported to us that over 8 million acres just this year have burned—we’ve lost dozens of lives, thousands of homes. Chief Tooke left us with the stark fact that while more than 8 million acres burned this year—another 80 million acres across the United States are at high risk of catching fire. 80 million acres. So Mr. Speaker, if that does not demonstrate, does not show how dire this problem is, I certainly can’t tell you what does.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-end-justice-department-settlement-slush-fund,COLUMN: End Justice Department Settlement Slush Fund,2017-10-30,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"The purpose of any legal settlement is to right a wrong against victims, not to enrich political allies of any presidential administration, Democrat or Republican. Under U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, it was no secret that President Obama’s Department of Justice steered settlements involving large companies to either supersede Congress’ appropriations authority or to support third-party liberal activist groups that were not parties to the case at hand. Billions of dollars in settlements have been used as a Justice Department “slush fund” in the form of civil penalties or forced “donations.” Congress has sole constitutional authority to appropriate federal funds, so in cases where Congress has refused to provide funding, settlement funds directed by the executive branch to third parties violate the principle of separation of powers. A clear example of executive overreach at the expense of legislative powers is the settlement with Volkswagen over its falsifying of vehicles’ diesel emissions. The Obama administration required the company to pay $2.0 billion of the $14.7 billion settlement in civil penalties toward electric vehicle infrastructure that Congress has refused to fund. The correct recipient of settlement funds in cases involving a harm against the American public is the taxpayer, so the U.S. Department of Treasury should be the destination for settlement penalties—not programs or infrastructure for which elected representatives in Congress have not appropriated federal funds. On the House floor last week, House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA), whose committee has conducted a longstanding investigation into the Justice Department’s slush fund, cited newly-uncovered evidence that demonstrates how Obama Justice Department officials blocked settlement payouts to conservatives. In a July 2014 email related to a settlement with Citibank, a senior Justice Department official explicitly advised that a recipient of settlement funds—a legal group that provides “conservative property-rights legal services”—was a cause of “concern.” In legal-speak, that means that the conservative group should not be awarded with settlement funds. That concern on the part of the Justice Department did not apply to political allies of the Obama Administration, including the National Urban League and the National Community Reinvestment Coalition. The Justice Department directed hundreds of millions of dollars in settlement funds to these and other activist organizations that were not parties to litigation and not harmed. Last week, I voted to support Chairman Goodlatte’s legislation, H.R. 732, Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act of 2017, to permanently bar federal agencies from requiring defendants to donate money to outside groups as part of settlement agreements. The legislation also requires that settlement money goes either directly to victims or to the U.S. Department of Treasury. U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced earlier this year that the Justice Department would prohibit use of third party settlements, but this legislation would make that prohibition permanent regardless of any administration’s affiliation. It is time to stop the executive branch’s overreach and abuse of settlements.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/case-you-missed-it-business-leaders-confirm-new-tariff-relief-bill-process-win,"In Case You Missed It: Business Leaders Confirm: New Tariff Relief Bill Process a Win for American Workers, U.S. Economy",2017-10-27,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. Dave Reichert (R-WA), held a hearing to discuss the benefits of providing tariff relief to U.S. manufacturers and to examine the new and transparent process for the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill (MTB) – legislation that helps U.S. manufacturers compete globally and create more jobs at home. For decades, Congress has passed MTBs to temporarily reduce or suspend tariffs on certain imported products that are not produced in the United States. This legislation lowers the cost of imports, boosting American manufacturers’ competitiveness and ultimately lowering prices for consumers. In 2016, the Ways and Means Committee led a bipartisan effort to update the process for considering temporary tariff reductions and suspensions through the American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act of 2016 (AMCA). The AMCA passed both chambers with near unanimous support and was signed into law in May 2016. As Chairman Reichert said: “Under the new MTB process, companies petition the independent, non-partisan International Trade Commission – not individual Members of Congress – for tariff relief. The new process is open and transparent, and establishes an opportunity for public comment. It provides predictability for our businesses while complying with House rules.” The Subcommittee heard from business leaders from across the country about the positive impact this updated MTB process is having on their companies. When asked what her company will do with the savings and revenues generated from tariff relief, Gowan Agricultural Relations Director Cindy Smith said that the profits go to where they should – the workers: “We have a profit sharing program with our employees – 700 employees. Anything I could do to reduce my costs benefits my employees. It allows me to continue to provide healthcare coverage. It allows me to pay bonuses. It allows us to give raises.” Michael Ratchford, Government Relations Associate at technology company W.L. Gore & Associates, praised the new MTB process as a fair and transparent way for U.S. businesses to seek needed tariff relief: “The AMCA creates an open process where stakeholders and the public can monitor filed petitions, comment, and better understand how petitions are evaluated. The new MTB process is significantly more transparent than previous iterations and ensures that stakeholders have ample opportunity to be actively involved during the vetting process, before being considered by Congress.” Ed McAssey, Chief Operating Officer of Lasko Products headquartered in West Chester, Pennsylvania, explained how the MTB will help Lasko and its employees compete on a level playing field with Chinese manufacturers: “We are in a business of pennies and can sometimes lose a fan sale to overseas competitors due to a cost differential of 20 to 30 cents. The duty relief provided by the MTB on motor assemblies and related parts enables us to compete with suppliers in China who do not incur the costs of livable wages, health insurance, and retirement contributions that we provide to our employees.” Throughout the hearing, Members talked about the success of the updated MTB process and the benefits that the recommended tariff relief will have on their states. Rep. Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) told a story about Topeka-based company, Goodyear Tires. Goodyear is seeking relief through the new MTB process for certain tire molds that are not produced anywhere in the United States. The ITC recommended that these molds be included in MTB legislation, which would allow Goodyear to import them without having to incur a pointless tariff, keeping the company globally competitive and employing hundreds of hardworking Kansans. The Congresswoman said: “This new MTB process … [is] increasing our competitiveness abroad while creating and saving jobs here at home.” Rep. George Holding (R-NC) talked about the economic impact that the MTB will have in North Carolina: “North Carolina has more MTBs recommended by the ITC than any other state. Of the 1,800 petitions of the ITC, over 330 of those were submitted by North Carolina businesses. Those petitions estimate after tax savings of $70 million in 2018 alone.  Rep. Erik Paulsen (R-MN) acknowledged that the MTB is necessary and has had tremendous impacts on American businesses. With respect to the broader trade agenda, Mr. Paulsen asked the panelists: “Do you believe that it is important for the United States to maintain its existing trade agreements and to also work on negotiating additional agreements?” Ms. Smith responded: “We are totally supportive of anything that lets U.S. growers sell their products overseas. So I would say: yes, the trade agreements we have in place are very critical for agriculture. Any work we do on trade agreements we should first look at, you know, what is the impact to U.S. business, right, and make sure we do no harm to U.S. business.” Chairman Reichert closed the hearing by emphatically committing to quick action to implement the ITC’s recommendations for tariff relief that U.S. manufacturers need to better compete around the world: “[Miscellaneous Tariff Bills] provide so much for, not only your companies, but the revenue you generate.  It goes back into your companies to your employees and then even out into the community and … finally to the benefit of U.S. consumers for less expensive products. This is a priority for us to complete this year, and its timely renewal is critical.” Ways and Means Committee is committed to moving swiftly on legislation to deliver tariff relief to U.S. businesses and consumers. CLICK HERE to learn more about this week's hearing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-votes-unlock-jobs-fairer-taxes-bigger-paychecks/,"McMorris Rodgers Votes to Unlock More Jobs, Fairer Taxes, and Bigger Paychecks",2017-10-26,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 26, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement following the House passage of H.Con.Res. 71, Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. “We are unlocking our historic opportunity to unleash everyone’s potential through comprehensive tax reform,” said McMorris Rodgers. “A fair, simple tax code is how we help lift up those who are left behind. America was built on freedom, opportunity, and hard work, and it’s time our tax code reflected those principles.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-votes-get-economy-booming-again,Reichert Votes to Get Economy Booming Again,2017-10-26,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Reichert Votes to Get Economy Booming Again Passage of Budget Paves Way to Tax Reform Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) released the following statement after he joined his colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives in passing the Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Resolution. “Today, the House passed and I supported a budget that puts America on a path toward more jobs and bigger paychecks,” said Rep. Reichert. “By getting this budget across the finish line, we are one step closer to a once in a generation tax overhaul that will relieve families of financial burdens, bring money and jobs back home from overseas, and put Americans in a better place to succeed as individuals and as a nation. As the reconciliation process moves forward, I will continue to champion the issues I have fought for throughout my career, including protecting ANWR from drilling.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-works-toward-tariff-relief-us-manufacturers,Reichert Works Toward Tariff Relief for U.S. Manufacturers,2017-10-26,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Yesterday, Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Dave Reichert (R-WA), held a hearing entitled, “Miscellaneous Tariff Bill: Providing Relief to U.S. Manufacturers Through the New MTB Process.” The hearing addressed the potential economic benefits to U.S. manufacturers and consumers of providing temporary tariff relief through the new MTB process on imported products not produced in the United States. The Ways and Means Committee is preparing legislation to implement recommendations made by the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) in its final report. Click HERE to watch Chairman Reichert’s opening remarks and the full Trade Subcommittee hearing. Below are Chairman Reichert’s opening remarks as prepared: Good afternoon.  The Subcommittee will come to order.  Welcome to the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee hearing on the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill.  Before hearing from our witnesses, I’d like to make a few points.  For decades, Congress has considered bipartisan legislation to temporarily suspend or reduce tariffs on certain imported products not made in the United States through legislation that has become known as the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill or “MTB.”  The MTB is designed to boost the competitiveness of American manufacturers by lowering the cost of imported inputs and in some cases, finished goods, without harming domestic firms that produce competing products.  Many companies in my home state of Washington have relied on the MTB, and I know that many of my colleagues have similar stories from their districts. Our manufacturers have used the savings from past MTBs to strengthen their competitive edge, support the creation of domestic manufacturing jobs, increase U.S. production, and contribute to the economic growth of the United States.  But the last MTB expired in 2012 and left American manufacturers without a process to help them cut costs.  This undermined the ability of our manufacturers to provide more domestic jobs and damaged their global competitiveness. Last year, Congress took action and passed overwhelmingly bipartisan legislation to create a new and transparent process for providing tariff relief to U.S. businesses and consumers.  Under the new MTB process, companies petition the independent, non-partisan International Trade Commission—not individual Members of Congress—for tariff relief.  The new process is open and transparent, and establishes an opportunity for public comment.  It provides predictability for our businesses while complying with House rules.  The ITC kicked off the new MTB process last October, launching a new, publicly accessible portal for the filing of petitions and public comments.  This August, after lengthy analysis, the ITC provided its final recommendations to Congress on more than 2,500 petitions.  Of those, the ITC has recommended that more than 1,800 petitions be included in MTB legislation.  I commend the ITC for its tremendous effort and dedication in successfully bringing the new MTB process to life.  And I thank the Commerce Department and Customs and Border Protection as well for its invaluable work. Now, Congress must act to consider an MTB bill and deliver long-awaited tariff relief to our manufacturers.  The Committee is doing its part by reviewing the ITC’s final report and preparing legislation to implement the ITC’s recommendations.  I am eager to hear from our witnesses today about how tariff relief provided through the new process will benefit their businesses, make them more competitive, create jobs, and grow our economy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-testifies-important-medical-research-funding/,McMorris Rodgers Testifies on Important Medical Research Funding,2017-10-25,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 25, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) testified before the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education about her son Cole and the tremendous potential that research on Down syndrome can bring to millions of Americans. As the Congresswoman explained to the committee, this research isn’t just about Down syndrome, instead, it can help answer many questions about a variety of diseases and other irregularities within the human genome. In case you missed it, you can watch the Congresswoman’s testimony here: Note: Funding for Down syndrome research makes up just one-hundredth of a percent of the budget at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This research can unlock the answers to many other questions about some very common health challenges. Consider this: 50% of babies with Down syndrome are born with congenital health defects although there’s no case of someone with Down syndrome suffering from a heart attack. Children with Down syndrome have a higher likelihood of developing juvenile leukemia although those with Down syndrome do not have solid tumor cancers. Thanks to improved medical care, there has been a dramatic increase in life expectancy among those with Down syndrome, however, almost every individual develops Alzheimer’s or dementia. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-and-yakima-valley-community-leader-honor-filipino-wwii-veterans,Newhouse and Yakima Valley Community Leader Honor Filipino WWII Veterans at Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony,2017-10-25,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Dan Newhouse (R-WA) today participated in a Congressional Gold Medal ceremony at Emancipation Hall in the U.S. Capitol in honor of Filipino veterans of World War II. Rep. Newhouse was joined by his guest, Rey Pascua, the President of Filipino-American Community of the Yakima Valley. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor that Congress can bestow. Rep. Newhouse was a cosponsor of companion legislation passed in the House, H.R.2737, Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015. For video of the ceremony, click here. Rep. Newhouse said: “It is never too late to show our nation’s gratitude. Today’s ceremony was about honoring the sacrifice of Filipino and Filipino-American veterans—including those from Central Washington—who answered the call to service in World War II. It was my privilege to welcome Rey Pascua to represent our local Filipino-American community out of gratitude for his efforts to assist veterans and their families.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-rubio-introduce-legislation-spur-small-business-investment/,"McMorris Rodgers, Rubio Introduce Legislation to Spur Small Business Investment",2017-10-24,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 24, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) and Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) today introduced the Spurring Business in Communities Act. This legislation would encourage investment in small businesses in Eastern Washington through incentivizing Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs) to form and invest in Florida, Washington state, and communities all across the country. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. They provide 55 percent of jobs in America, and account for 1.3 million employees in Washington state alone,” said McMorris Rodgers. “SBICs serve an important function in providing capital and support to these small businesses, but there are currently none here in Washington state. Instead, SBICs are primarily located in large urban and finance centers of the U.S., which only further concentrates lending and investment activity. This legislation will change that by easing the process for SBICs to form in our state, invest in people in our community, grow our local economy, and create jobs.” “I want Florida’s entrepreneurs and investors to be able to stay and invest here in Florida’s economy, instead of feeling like they are being shoe-horned into Wall Street and Silicon Valley jobs away from home,” said Rubio. “Our bill will help reduce America’s investor gap by removing regionally biased obstacles investors face when applying to become a licensed Small Business Investment Company.” “SBICs have an extraordinary record of empowering small businesses to grow and create jobs. We applaud Senator Rubio and Representative McMorris Rodgers for helping SBICs bring prosperity and hope to small businesses in every community in the country,” said Brett Palmer, President of the Small Business Investor Alliance, which represents SBICs nationwide.  NOTE: SBICs were established by the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to provide for government support of small businesses throughout the country, backed by the Small Business Administration. This legislation would increase the ability of the SBA to provide widespread geographic support and increase the SBA’s accountability to Congress. Specifically, it would exempt SBIC applicants from under-licensed states from full capital requirements, give first priority to new applicants from under-licensed and under-financed states, and establish annual reporting requirements on the SBA’s progress toward increasing the geographic dispersion of SBICs. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-requests-hearing-bipartisan-legislation-provide-regulatory,Newhouse Requests Hearing on Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Regulatory Certainty for Farms,2017-10-24,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Dan Newhouse (R-WA) today requested a legislative hearing in a letter to House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) and Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL), Chairman of House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on the Environment, on H.R. 848, the Farm Regulatory Certainty Act. Rep. Newhouse introduced the bipartisan legislation earlier this year. H.R. 848 reaffirms and clarifies Congress’ intent regarding the inappropriateness of subjecting agricultural operation nutrient management activities under the Resources Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA). The legislation will offer increased protection for individuals diligently seeking to treat identified issues, and prevent farmers from being targeted twice if they are already engaged in legal action or are making a diligent attempt to work with the state or federal government to address issues. “While I agree there are a number of statutes that do govern agricultural nutrient management practices, Congress never intended for RCRA to be one of those statutes,” said Rep. Newhouse in the letter. “Moreover, the Environmental Protection Agency’s regulations confirm that agricultural wastes, such as manures and crop residues, were not intended to be governed under RCRA.” Rep. Newhouse continued in the letter: “This commonsense legislation would clarify Congressional intent on this statute, work to restore a relationship of trust and confidence between farmers and regulators, and would prevent farmers who are already engaged in legal action who are diligently working with the state or federal government to address nutrient management issues from being targeted by citizen suits.” The Farm Regulatory Certainty Act would: Reaffirm and clarify congressional intent regarding the inappropriateness of subjecting agricultural nutrients to RCRA. Prevent farmers who are already engaged in legal action or are making a diligent attempt to work with the state or federal government to address nutrient management issues from being targeted by citizen suits. The Farm Regulatory Certainty Act would not: Prevent the EPA from enforcing current regulations under the Safe Water Drinking Act, the Clean Water Act, or any other applicable law. Exempt livestock producers from any laws or regulations intended to govern agricultural operations. Background: In early 2015, a federal judge in Washington State erroneously ruled against several dairy farmers that nitrates found in groundwater – commonly a byproduct of manure and fertilizers – were a “solid waste” under the Resources Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), and that high water nitrate levels constituted “open dumping”. While farmers are subject to numerous water statutes, this misguided judicial decision unfortunately neglects the fact that RCRA – a law intended to govern safe disposal of solid wastes in sanitary landfills – was never intended to regulate agricultural operation nutrient management activities. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) original 1979 RCRA regulations include exceptions for agricultural byproducts returned to the soil as nutrients. This decision places our entire agricultural community in a gray area of legal uncertainty. Farmers are now uncertain which statutes govern their nutrient management activities, and are open to increased liability from RCRA citizen suits based on undefined standards. Moreover, in the Washington State case, the farmers being sued under RCRA were working with EPA to address nutrient management issues prior to the citizen suit being filed. This inappropriate application of RCRA puts farmers on the defensive, and discourages proactive, voluntary stewardship of their land and water. Click here or see below for the text of the letter to Chairman Walden and Rep. Shimkus. October 24, 2017   The Honorable Greg Walden Chairman Committee on Energy and Commerce 2125 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 The Honorable John Shimkus Chairman Subcommittee on the Environment 2125 Rayburn House Office building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Chairman Walden and Chairman Shimkus: I am writing to request that the House Energy and Commerce Committee hold a legislative hearing on my legislation, H.R. 848, the Farm Regulatory Certainty Act, which your committee holds jurisdiction. This important piece of legislation would clarify and reaffirm that the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) was not intended to govern agricultural nutrient management activities. In 2015, a federal judge ruled in a citizen suit that dissolved manure nitrates constitute a “solid waste” under RCRA, and held four Washington State dairies culpable of “open dumping” due to their nutrient management practices. As a farmer myself, I firmly believe farmers have and must continue to lead the charge on good stewardship and conservation. This 2015 misguided ruling has placed farmers across the country in a legal gray area. It is unfair for agricultural nutrients to be exempt from law, then have a court find farmers at fault for non-compliance with the very law they are exempt from. Farmers need certainty to what rules apply to them. While I agree there are a number of statutes that do govern agricultural nutrient management practices, Congress never intended for RCRA to be one of those statutes. Moreover, the Environmental Protection Agency’s regulations confirm that agricultural wastes, such as manures and crop residues, were not intended to be governed under RCRA. This commonsense legislation would clarify Congressional intent on this statute, work to restore a relationship of trust and confidence between farmers and regulators, and would prevent farmers who are already engaged in legal action who are diligently working with the state or federal government to address nutrient management issues from being targeted by citizen suits. We want to continue to encourage farmers to be good stewards, and create an environment where farmers feel comfortable working with state and federal regulatory agencies to address stewardship issues. I look forward to working with you on this legislation and thank you for your consideration. Sincerely,   Dan Newhouse Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-insights-our-future-leaders,COLUMN: Insights for Our Future Leaders,2017-10-23,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"Speaking with students last week at Hanford High School in the Tri-Cities gave me a surprising realization. The students were curious about how our government operates and also about daily life working in Congress. I realized that more people might actually be interested in what it is like for me to work as your representative. To give you an idea, I wanted to share a few insights as well as important events last week in Central Washington. First insight: If you think representing more than 700,000 people in the 4th District in the House of Representatives is a desk job, think again. I will say that very little time is spent behind a desk. Most of my day, when not voting or participating in committee meetings, is spent meeting with as many constituents in person as possible. Last week, for example, I was home in Central Washington and enjoyed my time meeting with constituents across the region. In the Tri-Cities, I stopped by the Senior Times Expo, where my office staffed a booth to offer services and assistance to seniors dealing with federal agencies. Then I headed to give a congressional update to the Tri-Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and speak with local entrepreneurs to hear their concerns. Then it was off to Hanford High School to answer students’ questions about government. Later, I drove to the KONA 610 AM studio to share an update for radio listeners about tax reform and my efforts in Congress to protect dams on the Snake River. Last week, I also participated in two roundtables—one on tax reform with local business leaders, and one with energy researchers from Washington State University to discuss how they are contributing to American’s energy independence. I also participated in a Yakima Rotary Club meeting to hear about ways we can encourage public access to our forests and protect land from wildfires through better land management. I also visited an innovative health clinic and learned that expanding Health Savings Accounts would help increase options and access to care. I also met with employees of the Walmart in Sunnyside during their shift break and joined the Sozo sports complex open house in Yakima. Meeting constituents at workplaces and community events gives me a better idea of what is important to constituents, and it informs how I speak in the House on behalf of Central Washington. For our future leaders, I have another insights: In a democracy, it is very important to be in contact with people. In a single week, you may very well come into contact with dozens if not hundreds of people. (I also recommend that you get over any issues with air travel—because it is not feasible to drive the roughly 2600 miles from Yakima, Washington to Washington, D.C. on a regular basis.) Finally, what about weekends when Congress is not in session? I always look forward to spending a few hours working on the family farm—especially during hop harvest. There is something special about spending time outside in the fields that makes me realize how blessed we are to live in beautiful Central Washington. For the curious, I hope this gives you a better idea of being a representative. I strive to be hands-on and to hear from as many constituents as possible where you live.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-reichert-rice-donovan-larsen-bill-reauthorize-expedited-business-travel,"House Passes Reichert, Rice, Donovan, Larsen, Bill to Reauthorize Expedited Business Travel Program for Pacific Rim Countries",2017-10-23,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 504, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Travel Cards Act of 2017, which is identical to bipartisan legislation introduced in the House this year by Reps. Dave Reichert (R-WA), chairman of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, Kathleen Rice (D-NY), Dan Donovan (R-NY), and Rick Larsen (D-WA). The legislation permanently reauthorizes the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card (ABTC) program, which eases travel for those conducting business in the APEC region. APEC, a forum of 21 Pacific Rim countries including the U.S., created the ABTC program in 1997, and the U.S. started issuing cards to eligible Americans in 2014 after Congress passed the APEC Business Travel Cards Act in 2011. Nearly 30,000 U.S. citizens currently hold cards through the ABTC program, including more than 1,000 in Washington State. “The future lies in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Rep. Reichert. “Government officials and our business men and women must be able to engage with the world’s largest growing consumer-base living in Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation member countries. The ABTC program is used by 1,000 Washington residents alone and has proven successful in facilitating travel and making it easier for Americans to do business in this critical region. I am proud to have worked on this bipartisan, bicameral legislation and pleased my colleagues in the House voted to send it to the President’s desk.” Background on the APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) program: The ABTC program allows business travelers and government officials with business in APEC countries to access fast-track processing lanes at APEC airports, which saves an estimated 43 minutes per trip, according to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CPB). The program runs entirely on user fees and costs nothing to taxpayers. Applicants must pay a $70 fee, must be U.S. citizens, and must pre-enroll in a U.S. trusted traveler program like Global Entry. Eligible applicants must be a “verified business person” engaged in APEC business – i.e., engaged in the trade of goods, provision of services, or conduct of investment activities in the APEC region – or a U.S. government official engaged in government activities in the APEC region. Under the APEC Business Travel Cards Act, the authority to issue these travel cards to Americans is set to expire on September 30, 2018 – meaning that no new cards can be issued after that date, and all cards will expire by 2021, after which Americans will no longer be able to travel throughout the region as easily as business travelers from other APEC countries. The legislation passed in the House today permanently extends that authority, while maintaining the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) authority to revoke or suspend an individual’s card for security reasons at any time. This legislation was introduced by in the Senate by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Steve Daines (R-MT). Other organizations supporting the effort to reauthorize the ABTC program include the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Asia Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce, U.S. Council for International Business, National Foreign Trade Council, U.S. Travel Association, American Hotel and Lodging Association, Global Business Travel Association, U.S.-China Business Council, U.S.-ASEAN Business Council, National Center for APEC, American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, American Chamber of Commerce in the People’s Republic of China, Hawaii Tourism Authority, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, and the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association. The full text of the legislation is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-collins-join-criminal-justice-reform-forum/,"McMorris Rodgers, Collins Join for Criminal Justice Reform Forum",2017-10-19,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"SPOKANE, WA (October 19, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) and Georgia Congressman Doug Collins (GA-09) joined the Peaceful Communities Roundtable in Spokane, Washington, for a Criminal Justice Reform Forum to learn from leaders in the field and hear stories from people who’ve experienced issues within the criminal justice system in America. “I’m so thankful to have Rep. Doug Collins join us for this important discussion. The only way to do this right is to hear directly from people who’ve experienced it, to listen, and to hear their stories and ideas,” said McMorris Rodgers. “This was a great discussion and I look forward to continuing these important conversations about the future of our Eastern Washington community.” “Thoughtful justice reform involves listening to our neighbors. It means we’re committed to learning from the people who see opportunities to build stronger, safer communities,” said Collins. “Conversations like these open the doors to solutions for preventing crime and promoting compassion, and I’m grateful to join my friend Cathy McMorris Rodgers and the Spokane community for today’s exchange.” In case you missed it, you can watch some of the forum on the Congresswoman’s Facebook page here: # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-bishop-work-military-families-2017-congressional-military-family-caucus-summit/,"McMorris Rodgers, Bishop Work For Military Families at 2017 Congressional Military Family Caucus Summit",2017-10-18,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 18, 2017) – Yesterday, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus, joined fellow Co-Chair Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02) at Fort Benning in Columbus, Georgia for the annual bipartisan Congressional Military Family Summit. The two welcomed Department of Defense officials, representatives from military service organizations, staff from five Congressional offices, and over 200 military family and service members for this year’s summit at the National Infantry Museum near Fort Benning. “Supporting our military families is a top priority of mine because the strength of our military is drawn from the strength of our military families,” said Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers. “This summit and caucus allow us to pay special attention to the unique and diverse issues that military families face, hear their stories, and work to find solutions. I’m so thankful to Congressman Sanford D. Bishop for being a partner in this effort and for hosting this year’s summit at Fort Benning. As a team, we can continue to look for solutions to strengthen our military families and make their lives a little easier.” “As Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus and a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, I take seriously my obligation to military families and veterans in Georgia and nationwide,” said Congressman Bishop. “It is our responsibility to listen, learn, and ensure military family voices are heard on Capitol Hill. Spousal employment, state licensure, healthcare and caregiving, and military child education provide unique challenges for military families, and as legislators, we must see to it that the policies we craft ease the burden for those families that support our national defense.” “We have made great strides in addressing the challenges facing military families since the founding the Congressional Military Family Caucus in 2009,” continued Congressman Bishop. “However, there always remains room for improvement. The Military Family Summit continues to provide military families a seat at the table and helps Congress and the Executive Branch uncover and address emerging concerns in a swift and productive manner.” NOTE: The Congressional Military Family Caucus is a bipartisan group consisting of more than 80 Members of Congress dedicated to educating elected officials, congressional staffers, senior military leaders, and the public on the unique issues facing military families today. Keynote panelists at the summit included General (Ret.) Lloyd Austin, former Commander of CENTCOM and Vice Chief of Staff of the Army; Joyce Raezer, Executive Director of the National Military Association; and Major General Jeffrey Clark from the Defense Health Agency. The full program, including all panelists and moderators, for the 2017 Military Family Summit can be found here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-support-israel-president-trump-right-withdraw-unesco,"COLUMN: To Support Israel, President Trump Right to Withdraw from UNESCO",2017-10-16,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"The U.S. and the Paris-based United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have had a long, contentious history over the organization’s controversial stances. The aim of UNESCO—to promote greater cross-cultural understanding—is well-intentioned. In fact, the U.S. had a formative role in creating UNESCO as an organization meant to promote freedom and democratic values. But in practice, UNESCO has departed from that mission and acted as a platform for anti-Israel and anti-Western totalitarians. U.S. presidents on both sides of the aisle have curtailed American involvement in the organization. In 1983, President Reagan ordered the U.S. to withdraw from UNESCO because the organization had become too corrupt and too supportive of the USSR. Reagan’s administration pointed out that UNESCO “exhibited a hostility toward the basic institutions of a free society, especially a free market and a free press,” and “demonstrated unrestrained budgetary expansion.'' Only after President George W. Bush assessed that anti-American sentiment had eroded in the aftermath of 9/11 did the U.S. rejoin the organization. Under President Obama, the U.S. stopped paying dues in 2011 after UNESCO voted to allow “Palestine” to become a full member, in a direct affront to our closest ally in the Middle East, Israel. In 2012, even after Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad violently suppressed his own people, UNESCO refused to expel Syria from its human rights committee. Last year, Israel recalled its UNESCO ambassador in protest of the organization’s approval of a resolution ignoring Judaism’s connection to the Temple Mount. In June of this year, UNESCO approved a resolution calling Israel the “occupying power” in Jerusalem’s Old City. In July, UNESCO designated the Old City of Hebron and the Tomb of the Patriarchs as part of Palestinian territory. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley was absolutely right to say that the decisions “represents an affront to history” and “undermines the trust that is needed for the Israeli-Palestinian peace process to be successful.” The pattern is obvious: UNESCO has strayed from its mission and constantly approves anti-Israel resolutions and tiptoes around tyrants. Why should the U.S. support or fund the work of such a tone-deaf and unserious organization? Citing the need for fundamental reform and obvious anti-Israel bias, President Trump’s State Department announced last week that the U.S. would again withdraw from UNESCO, remaining a nonmember observer state. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded with praise for President Trump’s “brave and moral decision, because UNESCO has become the theater of the absurd and because instead of preserving history, it distorts it.” Clearly, American participation that legitimizes UNESCO’s current path does not serve our foreign policy interests. UNESCO is deeply flawed and needs fundamental reform before the U.S. should ever consider rejoining. I applaud President Trump’s decision to take strong action, and I support his administration’s commitment to reevaluate U.S. participation in additional UN agencies.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns-and-op-eds/column-support-israel-president-trump-right-withdraw-unesco-0,"COLUMN: To Support Israel, President Trump Right to Withdraw from UNESCO",2017-10-16,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,,,legacy,"The U.S. and the Paris-based United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have had a long, contentious history over the organization’s controversial stances. The aim of UNESCO—to promote greater cross-cultural understanding—is well-intentioned. In fact, the U.S. had a formative role in creating UNESCO as an organization meant to promote freedom and democratic values. But in practice, UNESCO has departed from that mission and acted as a platform for anti-Israel and anti-Western totalitarians. U.S. presidents on both sides of the aisle have curtailed American involvement in the organization. In 1983, President Reagan ordered the U.S. to withdraw from UNESCO because the organization had become too corrupt and too supportive of the USSR. Reagan’s administration pointed out that UNESCO “exhibited a hostility toward the basic institutions of a free society, especially a free market and a free press,” and “demonstrated unrestrained budgetary expansion.'' Only after President George W. Bush assessed that anti-American sentiment had eroded in the aftermath of 9/11 did the U.S. rejoin the organization. Under President Obama, the U.S. stopped paying dues in 2011 after UNESCO voted to allow “Palestine” to become a full member, in a direct affront to our closest ally in the Middle East, Israel. In 2012, even after Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad violently suppressed his own people, UNESCO refused to expel Syria from its human rights committee. Last year, Israel recalled its UNESCO ambassador in protest of the organization’s approval of a resolution ignoring Judaism’s connection to the Temple Mount. In June of this year, UNESCO approved a resolution calling Israel the “occupying power” in Jerusalem’s Old City. In July, UNESCO designated the Old City of Hebron and the Tomb of the Patriarchs as part of Palestinian territory. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley was absolutely right to say that the decisions “represents an affront to history” and “undermines the trust that is needed for the Israeli-Palestinian peace process to be successful.” The pattern is obvious: UNESCO has strayed from its mission and constantly approves anti-Israel resolutions and tiptoes around tyrants. Why should the U.S. support or fund the work of such a tone-deaf and unserious organization? Citing the need for fundamental reform and obvious anti-Israel bias, President Trump’s State Department announced last week that the U.S. would again withdraw from UNESCO, remaining a nonmember observer state. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded with praise for President Trump’s “brave and moral decision, because UNESCO has become the theater of the absurd and because instead of preserving history, it distorts it.” Clearly, American participation that legitimizes UNESCO’s current path does not serve our foreign policy interests. UNESCO is deeply flawed and needs fundamental reform before the U.S. should ever consider rejoining. I applaud President Trump’s decision to take strong action, and I support his administration’s commitment to reevaluate U.S. participation in additional UN agencies.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-bipartisan-group-members-introduce-bill-save-mothers-and-children,"Reichert, Bipartisan Group of Members Introduce Bill to Save Mothers and Children",2017-10-13,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC –This week, Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA), Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN), Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA), and Congressman Daniel Donovan (R-NY) introduced the Reach Every Mother and Child Act (H.R. 4402), a bold, bipartisan legislative initiative to accelerate the reduction of preventable maternal, newborn and childhood deaths worldwide. “We have made incredible progress in improving maternal care and reducing preventable child deaths around the globe,” said Rep. Reichert. “But better is not good enough. The Reach Act will give the world’s most in-need families the tools and resources to climb their way out of extreme poverty, reduce infant mortality, and focus on building their communities. With a continued focus on reaching more mothers and children, we can save countless lives and strengthen security and stability across the globe.” Rep. McCollum said, “Despite significant progress in improving global access to quality health services for mothers, children, and newborns, hundreds of thousands of women continue to die each year of preventable pregnancy and childbirth related causes.  Millions of children don’t live to see their fifth birthday.  Continued U.S. leadership is essential, and the Reach Act will coordinate resources and strategies that will achieve our goal of ending preventable maternal and child deaths within a generation.  I am proud to build on our government’s strong, bipartisan legacy of leadership by partnering with Rep. Dave Reichert, Rep. Barbara Lee, and Rep. Dan Donovan on this important legislation.”  “While we’ve made tremendous strides in reducing the maternal and child mortality rate, more work remains. We can and must continue to make progress is ending these tragic, preventable and unnecessary deaths,” said Rep. Barbara Lee. “The REACH Act is a lifesaving bill that will uplift the most vulnerable and create a healthier, safer and more stable world for everyone.” Rep. Donovan said, “Progress has been made in helping mothers and children across the globe access the health services they need, but too many preventable deaths still occur. Regardless of ideology, I think we can all agree that no child anywhere should die of something as simple as diarrhea. The United States has been a leader in helping the most vulnerable and those living in poverty for years. This bipartisan legislation allows our nation to build on that work and continue to be a shining example to the world.” This legislation has already won the support of more than 20 non-governmental organizations (NGO) including RESULTS, World Vision, and Save the Children Action Network. “The Reach Act represents the kind of ambition we need to help countries reach the end of preventable maternal and child deaths,” said Dr. Joanne Carter, Executive Director of RESULTS and RESULTS Educational Fund. “Following the leadership of Reps. Reichert, McCollum, Lee, and Donovan, Congress has the chance to help make sure every mother and child is reached with quality services, regardless of who she is or where she lives.” “I am grateful to Rep. Reichert, Rep. McCollum, Rep. Lee and Rep. Donovan for their work across party lines to prioritize the health and survival of mothers and children around the world,” said Mark Shriver, president of Save the Children Action Network. “This is a bold initiative that will ensure our government is as effective as possible as we work toward ending preventable deaths around the world. As a result, we will help create a more stable world.” “The Reach Every Mother and Child Act provides a critical opportunity for the US Government to strengthen its commitment in serving the global poor,” added World Vision CEO Rich Stearns. “This legislation will ensure that proven cost-effective and life-saving health interventions will be scaled up in the developing world, in order to end preventable maternal and child deaths in our lifetime.”  Background: According to experts, nearly 300,000 women die annually from pregnancy and childbirth complications. Malnutrition also contributes to approximately 45 percent of deaths among children under the age of five, totaling more than 3 million mostly preventable deaths each year. Furthermore, about one million newborns die on their very first day of life from causes that are almost entirely preventable. The Reach Act is the House companion bill to the Reach Every Mother and Child Act (S. 1730) introduced by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Christopher Coons (D-DE) The legislation would: Coordinate U.S. government strategy to end preventable maternal, newborn, and childhood deaths globally within a generation; Require targets to be set, tracked, and reported; Focus on the poorest and most vulnerable populations while recognizing the unique needs within different countries and communities; Improve coordination amongst agencies and foreign governments, civil society, and international organizations; Encourage USAID to use pay-for-outcome financing arrangements; and Accelerate partner country progress toward self-sustainability.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399003,Jaime Herrera Beutler Statement on Presidents Executive Order Expanding Association Health Plans,2017-10-12,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Jaime Herrera Beutler,H001056,herrerabeutler.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler released the following statement regarding President Trump’s executive order on Association Health Plans: “Here in Washington state, Association Health Plans (AHPs) currently provide roughly 400,000 individuals with quality, affordable health care plans – and that’s despite these popular programs being undermined and restricted by our state’s Insurance Commissioner. For many years, I’ve worked in a bipartisan manner to strengthen AHPs because they are a critical solution to making good health care more attainable for more people. If implemented correctly, the President’s expansion of AHPs could help bring down costs of quality care for thousands of Washingtonians. “Unfortunately, supporting small businesses who want to provide health coverage for employees is one of the greatest areas of failure under the Affordable Care Act; the Obamacare small business exchange operated by Washington state only insures 164 people across all of Washington. There is no reason why small businesses shouldn’t be able to band together and offer employees the same types of quality health care plans as labor unions and large corporations do, and I will be eagerly monitoring how this executive order is implemented and will help however I can to make sure it is successful here in Southwest Washington.” Below is background on Jaime’s efforts to strengthen AHPs in Washington state: 2017: Jaime Herrera Beutler Strengthens Small Business Health Care Legislation by Protecting Association Health Plans in Washington State 2015: U.S. Reps. Jaime Herrera Beutler, Derek Kilmer Urge Support of Association Health Plans that Provide Coverage to 500,000 Washington Residents",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-roe-poliquin-introduce-legislation-stop-va-shielding-dangerous-doctors/,"McMorris Rodgers, Roe, Poliquin introduce legislation to stop VA from shielding dangerous doctors",2017-10-12,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 12, 2017) – Today, Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Phil Roe (R-TN), and Congressman Bruce Poliquin (R-ME) introduced the Ethical Patient Care for Veterans Act of 2017. This legislation requires Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical professionals to report directly to state licensing boards if they witness unacceptable or unethical behavior from other medical professionals at the VA. The legislation is in response to the alarming USA Today article out yesterday that revealed the VA failed to disclose bad medical practitioners to the public, risking the public’s exposure to these dangerous doctors.   “These newest reports out of the VA are deeply troubling,” said McMorris Rodgers. “Our veterans deserve the best care imaginable, but as we’ve seen, far too often that’s not the case. This bill will help reform the culture at the VA by holding bad actors accountable and keeping them from continuing these mistakes at the VA or elsewhere. We should be rolling out the red carpet to our nation’s heroes in Eastern Washington and around the country, and that starts with ensuring that the best and brightest are at the VA caring for our veterans.” “The findings of the USA Today investigation are intolerable,” said Chairman Roe. “The committee has long been concerned about VA’s settlement agreements, and even held a hearing on the topic last year. While I can appreciate VA’s recent decision to more closely vet settlement agreements, malfeasance within the department will not be ignored. It certainly cannot be rewarded and hidden from state licensing boards. As a physician, I find this deeply troubling, and I thank Reps. McMorris Rodgers and Poliquin for their leadership on this issue.” “These most recent reports are nothing short of appalling,” said Congressman Poliquin. “Our Maine Veterans depend on their services at Togus and other VA facilities across our State for critical care, and it is absolutely unacceptable for them to ever be subjected to this kind of medical malpractice. We must have accountability at the VA, to ensure our Veterans are always getting the best care possible, and I am proud to be working on the Veterans Affairs’ Committee to do that. I’m now pleased to work with Chairwoman McMorris Rodgers and Chairman Roe to help prevent this unacceptable behavior from occurring again.” NOTE: Currently, if the VA receives a report of substandard health care practices, it takes at least 100 days to decide whether to refer the matter to a state licensing board. This legislation will require timely reporting to state licensing boards so there is proper notice of these serious allegations.  As reported by USA Today, “the VA — the nation’s largest employer of health care workers — has for years concealed mistakes and misdeeds by staff members entrusted with the care of veterans.” The article lays out a number of cases where doctors provided poor, unethical, or irresponsible care, and faced zero medical licensing reviews.  By requiring malpractice to be reported to state licensing boards, this legislation ensures that if poor care happens, doctors and clinicians will no longer be shielded by the VA and could face consequences just like they do in private practice.  In June, Rep. McMorris Rodgers had representatives from the House Veterans Affairs Committee come to the Spokane VAMC to conduct a site visit and see where improvements could be made. On the visit, they discovered a hole in the roof that had been ignored for years that was leaking into important electrical, heating, and cooling areas. The Congresswoman went back and got funding, and construction will soon begin to fix the hole and ensure our VA facilities are safe and healthy. Read more from the Spokesman-Review here.  # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris-rodgers-votes-fund-disaster-wildfire-relief/,McMorris Rodgers Votes to Fund Disaster and Wildfire Relief,2017-10-12,2017,2017-10,Republican,House,WA,Cathy McMorris Rodgers,M001159,mcmorris.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 12, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today voted to send much-needed funding for areas impacted by recent disasters across the country. The Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act, which passed the House today, sends $36.5 billion toward hurricane relief and wildfire suppression. “I think of what’s happened to Puerto Rico, and my heart goes out to all of the families and people whose lives were turned upside down,” said McMorris Rodgers. “And it’s not just Puerto Rico. Thousands of people in Texas, Florida, Louisiana, and the U.S. Virgin Islands also lost everything in the devastation following Hurricanes Maria, Harvey, and Irma. This aid package will help them with the long road to rebuilding and recovery. “I’m also pleased to see $576.5 million going toward fighting the wildfires that are destroying the West. Washington state experienced devastating fires this year, and right now we’re seeing what’s happening in California, and our hearts break for them. This relief package will help fight the fires and assist in the recovery efforts.” Yesterday, Rep. McMorris Rodgers joined Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) for a Facebook Live to talk about the recent fires and the need for this important disaster funding to help communities, like those in the Pacific Northwest, recover from and fight fires. You can watch it here: NOTE: Tomorrow, Rep. McMorris Rodgers will join Speaker of the House Paul Ryan on a trip to Puerto Rico to see the damage and recovery efforts taking place. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z