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://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-slams-final-package-actions-and-commitments-columbia-river,Newhouse Slams Final Package of Actions and Commitments in the Columbia River System Operations Mediation,2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon the early release of the final package of actions and commitments in the Columbia River System Operations (CRSO) mediation. “This final package, which would make our region’s dams effectively defunct, confirms what we’ve all known for years. The Biden Administration is catering to the wishes of extreme environmental activists that do not understand both the importance of the dams to our region, and the consequences of their proposed actions,” said Rep. Dan Newhouse. Newhouse continues, “For the duration of this process, key stakeholders’ positions have been widely ignored in favor of secret, closed-door meetings. The Biden Administration has consistently ignored the science and doubled down on the fraudulent claim that salmon and the dams cannot coexist—a fact that his been disproven multiple times, most recently in the 2020 Columbia River System Operations Environmental Impact Statement. This package is a slap in the face to the residents of Central Washington under the guise of protecting salmon and I will not stand for it. I have said it before, and I will say it again—Congress alone has the authority to breach the Lower Snake River Dams, and as long as I am your representative, I will fight to ensure our dams remain in place.” You can read the package of commitments, here. Background: The Biden Administration announced a 10-year stay in the Columbia River System Operations (CRSO) mediation, alongside over $1 billion in funding for wild fish restoration in the Columbia River Basin. Throughout the mediation process, key stakeholders and community members directly impacted by the litigation have been left in the dark as negotiations take place behind closed doors. The Biden Administration and dam-breaching advocates are intent on achieving a “de facto” breach of the Four Lower Snake River Dams, by opening the gates to reduce the water below the minimum operating levels for hydroelectric generation. Given that “breaching the dams” is mentioned 68 times total in the package, it is abundantly clear what the goal of this administration is. This administration should not be making agreements which circumvent congressional authority to breach the dams by operationally breaching them with the agreement.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-testifies-natural-resources-committee-hearing-protect-lower,Newhouse Testifies in Natural Resources Committee Hearing To Protect the Lower Snake River Dams,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Dan Newhouse (WA-04) joined the House Committee on Natural Resources' Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee for a hearing to question stakeholders on the Biden Administration’s efforts to breach the four Lower Snake River Dams. ""The Columbia River System Operations, including the operation of the Lower Snake River dams, is of critical importance to Central Washington and the rest of the Pacific Northwest. If these dams are breached, those most negatively impacted will include electricity customers, transportation stakeholders, river-dependent ports and communities, farmers, and recreationists."" Watch Rep. Newhouse’s line of questioning HERE: Watch the full committee hearing here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-champions-central-washington-farm-bill-priorities,Newhouse Champions Central Washington Farm Bill Priorities,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) testified before the House Committee on Agriculture to promote key provisions and urgency for the Farm Bill reauthorization. Watch Rep. Newhouse’s testimony HERE or read his remarks as prepared below: ""As Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, and as a third-generation farmer representing Central Washington, it is a privilege to work with the Members of this distinguished Committee. As we continue to address rural policy issues and support our farmers, ranchers, and the agriculture industry, I appreciate the opportunity to testify today and want to highlight several important provisions as you develop the next Farm Bill. The Farm Bill impacts all Americans, and this legislation must be carefully crafted to promote American agriculture, preserve our premiere research institutions, improve forest health to prevent catastrophic wildfires, and provide a safety net to ensure the long-term success of America’s agriculture industry. Trade continues to be critical for American farmers and ranchers, and American agricultural products are a key part of the global food supply. The Farm Bill must ensure that agricultural exports are prioritized in market promotion and that U.S. food aid continues to support American producers. It should reauthorize, and consider expanding, the Market Access Program (MAP), which is the main export promotion program that helps producers increase exports of American agricultural products. Additionally, the Foreign Market Development Program (FMD), the Emerging Markets Program, and Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops all play an important role in establishing new international markets for American products in foreign countries. My bill, H.R. 648, the Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2023 would expand and extend the MAP and FMD programs to ensure that American farmers and ranchers have the support they need to grow their businesses. My district is home to a significant number of organic growers and I am concerned by the lack of urgency and collaboration from USDA in updating organic standards. Consumer trust in organics relies on strong and consistently updated voluntary standards that reflect the latest facts on environmental and ecological data, consumer demands, and innovative best practices. To address this issue, I, along with others on this Committee and with overwhelming support from organic growers, introduced H.R. 5973, the Continuous Improvement and Accountability in Organic Standards Act. This legislation establishes a five-year repeating process where USDA, its advisory board, and stakeholders work together to ensure evolving market data is included in modern organics practices. For farmers, land managers, and other users not in the organic space, the ability to produce abundant food, feed, and fiber relies on access to safe and effective pesticides. However, some states have begun to regulate pesticides in a manner counter to the decades of scientific guidance from the EPA. The lack of certainty on EPA-approved, science-based labels will erode access to current and future pesticides. It will threaten crops, grower incomes, conservation practices, public health, vital infrastructure, and ultimately raise food prices for families amidst record-high inflation. My friend, and the distinguished Representative from South Dakota, Dusty Johnson, introduced H.R. 4288, the Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act, to reaffirm federal pesticide labeling uniformity and prevent state and local governments from adopting inconsistent labeling or packaging that disrupts access to these vital tools. Growers and users need assurance that while states have authority to regulate pesticides within their jurisdiction, they cannot impose labeling or packaging requirements in addition or different from the scientific conclusions of the EPA. In closing, the pursuit of a healthy farm economy must be a top priority, and it is crucial to protect those that keep food on our shelves. I encourage urgency as you continue to develop the next Farm Bill, and I sincerely thank you for your time and consideration."" The Farm Bill was extended through the stopgap funding measure passed by Congress and signed by the President last month. It will now expire September 30, 2024. To watch the full hearing, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-fights-tribal-law-enforcement-parity-bill-natural-resources,Newhouse Fights for Tribal Law Enforcement Parity Bill in Natural Resources Hearing,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) participated in a hearing with the House Committee on Natural Resources to discuss his bill, H.R. 4524—the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act, which would improve hiring and increase retention for tribal law enforcement officers in order to better protect native communities, increase law enforcement presence in all rural communities, and help address the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls (MMIW). Watch Rep. Newhouse’s opening remarks HERE or read excerpts as prepared below: “Chairwoman Hageman and Ranking Member Leger-Fernandez, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to speak at today’s hearing as a guest and for all the vital work you do on behalf of Indian Country. “I am here today to introduce the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation as well as on behalf of my legislation H.R. 4524 – the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act which is included in today’s legislative hearing. “H.R. 4524 aims to improve hiring and increase retention for tribal law enforcement officers to better protect native communities and help address the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. “Across the country, and especially in Washington’s Fourth Congressional District, many tribes have serious problems recruiting and retaining qualified law enforcement officers who serve on reservation land. Often times this is a result of training limitations, the bureaucratic nature of credentialling tribal officers, and sub-par pay. “This often leaves tribal communities with an inadequate law enforcement presence. The consequences of this can be fatal as tribal communities work to combat the opioid crisis, missing and murdered indigenous women and girls crisis, and protect their families and local businesses. “H.R. 4524 will fix this issue by classifying tribal law enforcement officers as federal law enforcement officers for the purposes of federal benefits and pensions amongst several other provisions. “It has strong bipartisan and organizational support. Back in July, I introduced this legislation with Rep. Kilmer (D-WA) and Rep. Davids (D-KS). And, today, this legislation boasts 14 bipartisan cosponsors and 9 tribes and Native American organizations who support it. “One of these supporters is the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. Today, they are represented by Chairman Jarred Erickson who is a resident of Nespelem, Washington. “Welcome, Chairman Erickson. And, thank you for attending this legislative hearing and most importantly for always being willing to work with my office on policy issues important to Indian Country. “Your support of H.R. 4524 has been essential in moving it through the legislative process and I look forward to hearing your testimony on it here today. “I also look forward to hearing the testimony of all the other witnesses here today. To learn more and watch the full hearing, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-northwest-lawmakers-request-additional-information-package,"Newhouse, Northwest Lawmakers Request Additional Information on Package of Actions and Commitments To Determine the Future of the Lower Snake River Dams",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Dan Newhouse (WA-04) and a group of Northwest lawmakers sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting additional information on a “package of actions and commitments” the United States Government negotiated with plaintiffs, states, and tribes in ongoing litigation over Columbia River System Operations (CRSO). In a letter to President Biden and administration officials, U.S. Representatives Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), Cliff Bentz (OR-02), and Russ Fulcher (ID-01) write: “As best we can tell, this document reflects the negotiating positions of the U.S. Government (USG) in the long-standing mediation concerning the Columbia River System Operations (CRSO). Due to the document’s use of vague and imprecise language, it appears susceptible to misinterpretation.” “It is imperative that our constituents, whose livelihoods depend on the Columbia River System, have a comprehensive understanding of this document’s contents so they can anticipate and prepare for the wide-ranging impacts that will inevitably be felt across the region should the commitments detailed in this document be realized,” they continue. “Additionally, as Members of Congress representing the Pacific Northwest and tasked with oversight of the Executive Branch, it is our duty to ensure any actions committed to as part of this agreement do not circumvent by any means the congressional authorization that would be required to execute certain proposed provisions, such as the removal of certain dams.” Throughout the letter, the lawmakers raise numerous questions about provisions in the document that require clarification from the Biden administration. On how the agreement would establish the “Pacific Northwest Tribal Energy Program”: Why does this program apply to only four of the more than 40 federally recognized Tribes in the Pacific Northwest? Does the USG seek to advance efforts to breach the Lower Snake River dams after securing this “replacement” power? Will these actions reduce the independence of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) in effectuating ratemaking decisions, assessing its statutory responsibilities, and setting its rates? If so, what will be the impact to ratepayers in the region? On how the document states that “[t]he science is clear, and now so must be our path forward”: On what specifically is the science clear? Did the USG rely on any additional scientific reports or studies, other than the NOAA report, which show categorically the science on salmon recovery in the Columbia River basin is clear? If so, why is this the only report cited by the USG in this document? During the RFI process, was ample time and consideration given to peer-reviewed sources provided by stakeholders in the region? According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), salmon face several health impacts from impaired water quality in the Puget Sound. Why is the USG relying on a report that does not take this and other factors that impact salmon runs into account? Did the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) play a role at any stage in the development of the NOAA report? If so, please describe the nature of their involvement. On the section of the document advancing an “urgent, comprehensive strategy to (a) restore salmon and steelhead to healthy and abundant levels”: How are the terms “healthy and abundant” defined? What is the plan to fund the $200,000,000 commitment for the Phase 2 Implementation Plan for salmon reintroduction? On determining “replacement” energy services for the Lower Snake River dams: Will this “accounting mechanism” incorporate grid reliability, including the 24/7 baseload energy deployment potential these dams provide, as a factor in determining replacement energy services? Will this accounting approach also solicit input from power providers in the region prior to the release of any guidance pertaining to the replacement of these resources? On potentially breaching the four Lower Snake River dams: Is your administration hoping the studies and actions funded by this report will substantiate enough “evidence” to undermine the economic viability of the hydroelectric system? Is there any scenario that would lead your administration to proceed with breaching without express authorization from Congress? Is it your official position at this point in time that these dams should ultimately be breached? On securing appropriations to implement this package of actions and commitments: Are appropriations from Congress being relied upon to fund any of the commitments contained in these Actions and Commitments, and if so, what specific commitments will appropriated funds be sought for? Have there been consultations with any Members of Congress in drafting either this section or any of the other commitments made in the document? If so, have written assurances of authorizing appropriations of these funds been made? What happens should the necessary “authorizations and appropriations” not be secured? In conclusion, the members write, “we respectfully request that a list of groups and individual voices that were included in the development of this package be provided so we can ensure it truly reflects what is in the best interest of the people we serve, as well as the marine populations it aims to protect. Furthermore, we have attached the ‘package of commitments’ to this letter to assist you in providing us with answers to the questions presented above. It is crucial that clarity and certainty is provided so we can achieve our common goal of a durable, long-term strategy for the future of the CRSO.” You can read the full letter, which includes the package of commitments, by clicking here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-demands-transparency-access-secret-package-columbia-river,"Newhouse Demands Transparency, Access to Secret Package in Columbia River System Operations Mediation",2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) led Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), Russ Fulcher (ID-01), and Cliff Bentz (OR-02) in a letter to Brenda Mallory, Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality, requesting the council grant immediate access to the “package of actions and commitments” recently negotiated in the mediation concerning the Columbia River System Operations. On October 31, 2023, the legal stay in the long-running court litigation related to the Columbia River System Operations expired. A 45-day stay extension was approved to allow federal mediation to continue. Shortly thereafter, federal defendants and plaintiffs filed a report to the court regarding the future of the litigation. In the status update report, the document noted the following: “During the extended stay, representatives from the United States, and staff teams for the National Wildlife Federation et al. Plaintiffs, the State of Oregon, the State of Washington, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, and the Nez Perce Tribe (collectively, “Parties”), have developed a package of actions and commitments that they intend to discuss with the other regional sovereigns and litigation parties and, following conferral, present to the Parties’ decision-makers for final review and approval. If approved, the Parties intend to ask this Court to enter a multi-year stay of the litigation to allow the Parties to implement this package of actions and commitments.” The Members wrote in the letter: “In addition to expecting the immediate transmittal of the proposed USG commitments, we find it necessary to remind you Congress alone has the authority not only to order the breach of the Lower Snake River Dams, but also exclusive authority to direct the study of breaching or to authorize replacement resources. This is statutory fact, and we warn the Administration not to attempt to circumvent that fact through clever wordsmithing.” The letter is supported by stakeholders directly affected by the results of the mediation including TRIDEC, Washington Wheat Association, Public Power Council, and Pacific Northwest Waterways’ Association: “The four lower Snake River dams, along with the energy, navigation, and irrigation benefits they provide, are critically important to the Tri-Cities and the entire Pacific Northwest. The many stakeholders who stand to be impacted by the outcome of this mediation deserve a seat at the table and to have their voices heard. This is a basic tenet of our system of government, and it is fundamentally unfair for select groups to be left out of the decision-making process on an issue that affects them directly. We sincerely appreciate Representatives Newhouse, McMorris Rodgers, Fulcher, and Bentz for their work to address this concern, and we hope that in the future all impacted parties will have an opportunity to participate,” said Karl Dye, President & CEO, TRIDEC Michelle Hennings, Executive Director, Washington Wheat Association, said ""We are appreciative of the efforts of Reps. Dan Newhouse, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, and Russ Fulcher, demanding transparency in federal processes that have broad-reaching impacts on stakeholder communities including, the Washington wheat industry. We have said all along that healthy salmon and dams can coexist, but this can only happen through cooperative work and the ability for all stakeholders to come together in a productive way. Lack of clear direction and transparency from the Federal government only hinders the ability of that progress.” “The people of the Pacific Northwest have really been let down by this so-called process being run by the Council on Environmental Quality,” said Scott Simms, CEO & Executive Director of the Public Power Council (PPC). “Our non-profit, community-owned member utilities and their customers were never given a real chance from the get-go, as we just recently learned a few parties in the litigation were working secretly with the federal government for more than six months on a ‘package of actions and commitments.’ We can’t wait for the day when the current confidentiality gag order is lifted on those proposed actions and commitments and everyone gets to see for themselves the level of uncertainty and prospective new costs that are being proposed for Northwest citizens as a result of these secret dealings.” Neil Maunu, Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Waterway's Association, stated ""We are deeply disappointed in the flawed process that resulted in the creation of the USG Actions and Commitments document. Despite our organization's extensive efforts to contribute as industry and subject matter experts, our input was overlooked for months while the plaintiffs engaged in secretive negotiations with the Council on Environmental Quality. This failure to consider the expertise and perspective of our members who rely on the critical navigation services provided by the system has left us with grave concerns about the credibility and fairness of the resulting package of actions and commitments. We urge transparency and fairness in this process and call on this administration to do so."" Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-colleagues-introduce-bill-support-pnw-seafood-industry,"Newhouse, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Support PNW Seafood Industry",2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday, Reps. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) and Suzan DelBene (WA-01) introduced bipartisan tax legislation to support on-duty meal services for Pacific Northwest offshore seafood workers. “The men and women in this industry are the front-line workers in our seafood supply chain, and this legislation will promote greater access to employee meal services in remote areas, enhancing their ability to compete with other maritime actors,” said Congressman Newhouse. Newhouse continues, “The reduced deductions we have seen in recent years have not only hurt the seafood industry and its workers but could seriously interrupt the workforce pipeline if it is eliminated as planned in 2025. It is vital we protect an industry that significantly contributes to our economy and communities.” This legislation would allow the cost of employer-provided meals served on commercial fish processing vessels and at remote fish processing facilities to be fully deductible. It would be a reversal of a 2017 tax law that cut the deductions for employer-provided meals to 50 percent with the intention to eliminate the deduction by 2025. The bill is cosponsored by Reps. Mary Peltola (AK-At-Large), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), and Derek Kilmer (WA-06). The Pacific Seafood Processors Association supports the legislation, and the full bill text can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-demands-regulation-clarity-wotus,Newhouse Demands Regulation Clarity on WOTUS,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"November 14, 2023 Today, Congressman Dan Newhouse (WA-04) led 71 Members of Congress in sending a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan and Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Michael Connor regarding the lack of clarity on the agencies’ regulatory definition of waters of the United States (WOTUS) following the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA. “Farmers, ranchers, and rural communities in Central Washington deserve certainty and safeguards from federal government regulations dictating how they use their land,” said Congressman Newhouse. Newhouse continues, “By going direct-to-final rulemaking and skipping a public comment period, the Biden Administration is attempting to bring their illegal WOTUS rule in-line with the Sackett decision by using ambiguous terms in a calculated manner to expand their regulatory authority. Central Washington deserves better, and that’s why I am leading a coalition in demanding clarity on how the Administration is planning to enforce WOTUS post-Sackett.” Signers of the letter are Reps. Dan Newhouse (WA-04), GT Thompson (PA-15), Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Jason Smith (MO-08), Jake LaTurner (KS-02), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Tom McClintock (CA-05), Cliff Bentz (OR-02), Russ Fulcher (ID-01), Dan Meuser (PA-09), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Garret Graves (LA-06), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Mike Bost (IL-12), Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03), Mike Flood (NE-01), Rick Crawford (AR-01), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), David Valadao (CA-22), John Duarte (CA-13), August Pfluger (TX-11), Ken Calvert (CA-41), Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Barry Moore (AL-02), Eli Crane (AZ-02), Jerry Carl (AL-01), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), James Moylan (Guam-AL), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Russell Fry (SC-07), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Alex Mooney (WV-02), Tracey Mann (KS-01), Aumua Amata Radewagen (American Samoa-AL), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Mark Alford (MO-04), Jim Baird (IN-04), Mike Carey (OH-15), Matt Rosendale (MT-02), Don Bacon (NE-02), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Kelly Armstrong (ND-AL), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Tom Tiffany (WI-07), Mark Amodei (NV-02), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Frank Lucas (OK-03), Austin Scott (GA-08), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Gary Palmer (AL-06), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Greg Murphy (NC-03), John “Judge” Carter (TX-31), Roger Williams (TX-25), Burgess Owens (UT-04), Larry Bucshon (IN-08), Ryan Zinke (MT-01), Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), Darrell Issa (CA-48), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05). Background: On May 25, 2023, the United States Supreme Court ruled against the Biden Administration’s WOTUS rule in Sackett v. EPA, limiting the scope of definition of “waters of the United States.” This forced the Biden Administration to amend their final rule from December 2022 to comply with the decision. The Congressional Western Caucus has long been active in fighting against the burdensome WOTUS ruling, their actions include: On January 26, 2023 Chairman Newhouse sent a letter, along with 195 House Republicans—including the entire Western Caucus, to the Biden Administration urging them to rescind their premature and reckless rule. On December 30, 2022, Chairman Newhouse and 22 Members of the Congressional Western Caucus spoke out against the Biden Administration releasing a final WOTUS rule—on the last business day of the year—before the Supreme Court has decided Sackett v. EPA. In April 2022, Chairman Newhouse, Rep. Miller-Meeks, and Rep. Rodney Davis (IL-13) submitted an amicus brief to the Supreme Court for Sackett v. EPA outlining the importance of environmental federalism and how a poorly-defined Clean Water Act hinders environmental protections. On March 9, 2022, Chairman Newhouse, Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Sam Graves (MO-06), and Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee Ranking Member David Rouzer (NC-07) led over 200 House Republicans – including every Member of the Western Caucus – in calling for the Biden Administration to drop its plan to expand the scope of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) until Sackett v. EPA is decided by the Supreme Court. Click here to learn more. In January 2022, Chairman Newhouse and Rep. Miller-Meeks called on the Administration to halt the rulemaking process, based on the Supreme Court’s decision to take up the Sackett case. Chairman Newhouse hosted Rep. Davis, Illinois Farm Bureau President Rich Guebert, and Charles Yates of the Pacific Legal Foundation, one of the contributing lawyers in the Sackett v. EPA case, to discuss the impacts WOTUS has on rural communities and potential implications of the Supreme Court decision. Click here to listen. When the Biden Administration announced their intention to revise and remand the Trump Administration’s Navigable Waters Protection Rule, Chairman Newhouse, Rep. Miller-Meeks, Senator Steve Daines (MT), and Senator Joni Ernst (IA) led Western Caucus Members in a bicameral letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan and Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Jaime Pinkham to express their serious concerns and demand answers about the Administration’s plans to reopen the definition of “waters of the United States.” Click here to read the letter and learn more. In November of 2021, Western Caucus Members from across the country issued statements in response to the Administration’s proposed rule. Click here to read more. ### Issues: Public Lands",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-colleagues-blast-inslee-gao-puget-sound-salmon-report,"Newhouse, Colleagues Blast Inslee on GAO Puget Sound Salmon Report",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Reps. Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), and Cliff Bentz (OR-02) released the following statement after the Government Accountability Office (GAO) published a report that cites poor water quality as the key factor in the declining salmon populations in the Puget Sound: “It doesn’t require an advanced degree to understand that years of dumping raw sewage and pollution into the Puget Sound would decimate salmon populations. That simple fact is now indisputable with this GAO report, which exposes what we’ve known to be true all along: Governor Inslee and the Washington Department of Ecology are responsible for killing Puget Sound salmon and must be held accountable for their negligence.” “For the last decade, this administration has been so distracted by misguided efforts to breach the Lower Snake River dams that they completely ignored the salmon being poisoned in their own backyard. Their consistent failure to meet water quality assessment deadlines – while turning a blind eye to ongoing pollution – not only violated federal law, but it also suffocated the salmon most critical to the health and sustainability of Puget Sound Orcas. Hypocritical and politically motivated does not even begin to describe this blatant dereliction of duty.” The new report found that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Washington State Department of Ecology violated The Clean Water Act by missing deadlines, by several years, for action plans on bodies of water that do not meet quality standards. The report also cites that missing these deadlines hampers authorities’ work to improve water quality, and that the EPA and Department of Ecology have still not developed a written plan to prevent further missed deadlines. View the GAO report here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-passage-israel-aid-package,Newhouse Statement on Passage of Israel Aid Package,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement on yesterday's passage of the Israel Supplemental Appropriations Package. “I have been and remain a staunch advocate for Israel and her interests. The violence we have seen from Hamas in the past weeks is unconscionable and is a direct reflection of the radical interests of this group. I proudly cosponsored the SHIP Act and H. Res 798, both aimed at condemning these violent attacks and ensuring our allies have the resources they need,"" said Rep. Newhouse. ""In order to participate in a funeral service for my wife's parents, I was unable to be present in the House Thursday to vote YES on the Israel supplemental aid package that I cosponsored. I am proud to see my colleagues working to support the sole true democracy in the Middle East and pass this vital piece of legislation. I am looking forward to continuing to lead the charge for our ally when I return.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-passage-legislative-branch-appropriations-bill,Newhouse Statement on Passage Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“Yesterday, the House continued its work in funding the government by passing the bill that keeps Congress working for the people. From increasing the budget of Capitol Police to reigning in millions of taxpayer dollars on overfunded programs, this bill is a strong statement on the kind of spending we want to see in the House,” said Rep. Newhouse. Newhouse continues, “I thank Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Mark Amodei for his leadership on this bill, and I am proud to support his efforts to ensure the House remains open and that we have the resources to do the job we were sent here to do.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/case-you-missed-it-newhouse-attends-grizzly-public-comment-session,In Case You Missed It: Newhouse Attends Grizzly Public Comment Session,2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"OKANOGAN – Yesterday, October 30th, Congressman Dan Newhouse (WA-04) attended the first in-person public comment session on introducing grizzly bears to the North Cascades and delivered his personal comment in opposition to the proposal. “As a farmer, I worry not only about the bears destroying my crops, but for the safety and well-being of myself, my family, and my on-farm hands,” said Rep. Dan Newhouse at the session. Newhouse continues, “It is clear you all know that grizzlies can and probably will move out of the zone in which you drop them in, yet rather than letting common sense prevail, are continuing to push forward with this dangerous plan.” The session was attended by approximately 200 citizens of North-Central Washington where third party moderators conduced a lottery-style selection of speakers to address the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), as well as the National Parks Service (NPS). The session also produced an overwhelming majority of speakers who opposed both the 10(j) proposal and the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) with nearly 50 attendees speaking in opposition. Six speakers rose in support of the proposal. “So tell me, what is the agencies’ plan for dealing with crop loss and livestock depredation that is inevitable from the introduction of these predators? What is the timeline for issuing lethal permits? And how much will citizens have to lose before they can defend themselves from this predator in their backyard?” Newhouse concluded. “The question in front of us today is not whether we have 10(j) or 4(d) to manage these bears, it’s whether or not to introduce grizzly bears to this region at all.” Photos from the event can be found here. The public comment period on the Draft EIS runs from September 28 - November 13, 2023. You can find more information on how to participate in public comment meetings or leave a public comment here. The list of upcoming public comment session can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-bill-targeting-urban-canal-repairs,Newhouse Introduces Bill Targeting Urban Canal Repairs,2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced The Urban Canal Modernization Act alongside Rep. Mike Simpson (ID-02). This legislation allows the Bureau of Reclamation to authorize a 35 percent non-reimbursable cost share to help repair and rehabilitate “urban canals of concern,” canals through urban areas that would cause significant property damage or possible loss of life if the canal were to fail. “As a proud primary co-sponsor of The Urban Canals Modernization Act, I recognize the need to address the increasingly difficult task of maintaining and modernizing our urban canal systems,” said Rep. Newhouse. Newhouse continues, “As these structures continue to age, it is crucial to supply local managers with the resources needed to protect both property, and people, from a potential disaster. Access to these waterways is vital to Central Washington particularly in communities most impacted by this issue like Soap Lake, Ephrata, and Quincy., We must ensure these canals remain healthy and reliable for the people who depend on it every day.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-election-speaker-house-representatives,Newhouse Statement on Election of the Speaker of the House of Representatives,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today Congressman Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement after the election of the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. “Today I was proud to vote for Congressman Mike Johnson from Louisiana for Speaker of the House,” said Rep. Dan Newhouse. Newhouse continues, “Rep. Johnson is a committed, common-sense conservative and has long been a strong voice in the Republican Conference. He has laid out a plan to get Congress back on track, and to get us back to doing the work we were sent here to do.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-fights-best-practices-organic-agricultural-industry,Newhouse Fights for Best Practices in the Organic Agricultural Industry,2023-10-18,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Continuous Improvement and Accountability in Organic Standards (CIAO) Act, which would modernize the process for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to respond to changes in organic and better align organic standards authored by the agency with industry best practices and consumer demands. “Our agricultural sector is constantly evolving, and in order to keep progress moving forward, we must keep up with best-in-practice standards,” said Rep. Newhouse. “As a third-generation farmer, I understand how crucial it is to ensure transparency in our organics process—for both producers and consumers—and it's imperative that we provide our growers certainty. This is how we spark further innovation and improvement within the organic industry."" “Central Valley farmers are the ones who feed the world, with many voluntarily providing high-quality organic products that are held to a significantly higher standard than other agricultural commodities. It is critical that these farmers, producers, and growers are not held back from bringing their goods to market by bureaucratic red tape and outdated regulations,” said Rep. Valadao. “This bipartisan bill will ensure organic standards from USDA are accurate, transparent, and responsive to the latest science. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation to improve and grow our organic agriculture sector.” “As the organic market continues to expand, producers need clear and reliable information on changing standards and regulations,” said Rep. Panetta. “This bipartisan legislation empowers farmers by setting clear priorities for organic standards and instituting a predictable process for stakeholder input. As California’s 19th Congressional District leads the country in organic farming, I’ll continue working to promote and perpetuate this innovative industry.” “The number one industry in my district is agriculture, and the farms in my region put delicious food on shelves and on dinner tables all over the United States. It’s critical that when families go to their local store for food marketed as organic, they know and trust the standards that our growers are meeting, and that red tape isn’t preventing organic growers from getting their goods to market,"" said Rep. Carbajal “For far too long, organic producers have been waiting for the Department of Agriculture to move forward with numerous consensus recommendations to improve organic standards and protect the integrity of the organic label,” said Rep. Pingree. “As an organic farmer and Co-Chair of the House Organic Caucus, I am proud to support this bill to hold the USDA accountable so we can continue to move the National Organic Program forward.” “Ensuring continuous improvement for organic is our highest priority in the 2023 Farm Bill, and this legislation goes far to address that objective,” said Tom Chapman, CEO and Executive Director of the Organic Trade Association. “I wish to express our sincere thanks to Representatives Newhouse, Panetta, Carbajal, Valadao and Pingree for their leadership and for working with a broad coalition of farmers, industry, environmental and other organizations to ensure organic continues to be a dynamic opportunity for growth and able to meet the future needs and desires of both producers and consumers.” ""Technology and production methods have changed a lot since the national organic standards were created over 20 years ago, and domestic farmers need relevant organic standards to compete in the growing organic marketplace. Organic Farmers Association supports the CIAO bill for streamlining rulemaking to keep organic regulations relevant,"" says Kate Mendenhall, Executive Director of the Organic Farmers Association. Click here to read the full text of the bill. The Continuous Improvement and Accountability in Organic Standards (CIAO) Act will: Require the USDA to request public input on recommended changes to organic standards at least once every five years and establishes a five-year working period for the USDA, in consultation with the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB), to implement the recommendations. Ensure the USDA and NOSB considers the best available information – including environmental and ecological data, consumer and market data, organic production and handling practices, organic research, and scientific data – when implementing the recommended changes. Background: Organic agriculture became increasingly popular in the early 1900’s but it wasn’t until the 1990 farm bill which included the Organic Foods Production Act that a certification program and national organic standards were established. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Organic Program is a voluntary regulatory program for farmers and businesses who choose to meet a strict federal standard and market their products under the USDA organic seal, which bolsters consumer confidence in the legitimacy of organic products. Since the first nationwide organic standards were officially established in 2000, the strict and comprehensive network of federal requirements and regulations that monitor and check the organic industry – from the farm gate to the dinner plate – have been driven by stakeholders throughout the supply chain and organic community. This unique private-public partnership has made the organic regulatory system the gold standard for food and agricultural systems around the world. In fact, the organic sector has thrived, growing to more than a $67 billion U.S market, with the USDA Organic seal recognized as one of the most trusted consumer labels in the marketplace. To maintain this exponential growth, organic standards need to be responsive to changes in scientific information, environmental and ecological data, as well as consumer demands. However, in the last several years, the federal regulatory apparatus has fallen behind, slowing innovation and continuous improvement within the industry. CIAO sets forth the pathway to bring federal regulations up to speed with the evolving organic industry and is critical to keep the organic sector growing. CIAO was originally introduced in the 117th Congress. The Continuous Improvement and Accountability in Organic Standards Act is endorsed by the Organic Trade Association, Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance, Organic Farmers Association, National Organic Coalition, and Organic Produce Association. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announces-communications-staff-update,Newhouse Announces Communications Staff Update,2023-10-16,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced a new staff appointment for the 4th Congressional District’s D.C. Office. Matt Reed joined Rep. Newhouse’s office as Communications Director following Mike Marinella’s departure. Reed will be the point of contact for media inquiries for the office going forward.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-stop-biden-administration-introducing,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Stop the Biden Administration from Introducing Grizzly Bears to the North Cascades,2023-10-11,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"October 11, 2023 Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced legislation which would withdraw the National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) proposed 10(j) rule and the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on the Draft Grizzly Bear Restoration Plan. “Central Washingtonians have consistently voiced their concerns and opposition over the introduction of grizzly bears into the North Cascades Ecosystem, yet unelected bureaucrats from the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service continue to try to force these predators upon our communities,” said Rep. Newhouse. “These agencies should listen to the people who would be most impacted by these actions and immediately withdraw their proposed rule and draft EIS statement so members of the region can rest safely knowing that an 800 pound apex predator is not going to enter into their backyard.” Click here to read the full text of the bill. Background: The North Cascades Grizzly Bear Restoration Plan/Environmental Impact Statement was first proposed by the Obama Administration. Central Washington communities surrounding the North Cascades National Park were not provided an adequate opportunity to give their input on the proposal. In March 2017, Rep. Newhouse wrote to North Cascades National Park Service Superintendent Karen Taylor-Goodrich to express opposition to the plan, citing an inadequate level of local community input and encouraging federal agencies to defer to state and local authorities on grizzly bear management efforts. On April 12, 2018, Rep. Newhouse wrote a letter to former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, expressing his deep concern regarding the then-Secretary’s support for the proposal. On June 6, 2018, the House Appropriations Committee approved Rep. Newhouse’s amendment to the FY19 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act that would deny funding to the U.S. Department of Interior to be used for the transport of grizzly bears in the North Cascades until local communities had the chance to adequately submit their public comments. The amendment was included in the passage of the final FY19 Interior Appropriations language. On July 19, 2018, the full House of Representatives approved legislation containing Rep. Newhouse’s amendment to deny funding used for the transport of grizzly bears in the North Cascades. In October 2019, hundreds of North Central Washington residents attended a public listening session – requested by Rep. Newhouse – in Okanogan, Washington, where officials from the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife listened to local concerns on the proposal to introduce grizzly bears into the North Cascades Ecosystem. U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Fish & Wildlife Rob Wallace was at the Okanogan County Fairgrounds Agriplex as many of the more than 600 North Central Washington residents provided up to two minutes of oral comment on the record. As reported by Capital Press, 50 people spoke in opposition to grizzly bear introduction, and 12 people spoke in support. On July 7, 2020, Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary David Bernhardt visited North Central Washington, where he announced after following the federal rulemaking process, reviewing hundreds of local public comments, and hosting a public comment listening session in Okanogan County, DOI concluded that grizzly bears will not be introduced into the North Cascades Ecosystem. On November 10, 2022, the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced initiation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process with four virtual meetings to evaluate options for restoring and managing grizzly bears in the North Cascades of Washington. Over 6,200 comments were received on the draft EIS, with the vast majority coming from outside of Washington state. On September 28, 2023, the U.S. National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service announced their intention to seek public comment on a proposed rule under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act related to the potential introduction of grizzly bears in the North Cascades. On October 6, 2023 Rep. Newhouse demanded the U.S. National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service extend their public comment period to accommodate locals who want to respond to the Establishment of a Nonessential Experimental Population of Grizzly Bear in the North Cascades Ecosystem in Washington State proposal. ### Issues: Public Lands",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-resolution-stand-israel,Newhouse Introduces Resolution to Stand with Israel,2023-10-11,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced a resolution alongside 391 of his House colleagues to stand with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists. ""I strongly condemn the horrific attack on Israel, and Iranian-backed Hamas must be held accountable,"" said Rep. Newhouse. ""As our strongest ally and sole democracy in the Middle East, the United States must stand with Israel unequivocally while they continue to defend themselves against this invasion. It is imperative that this conflict concludes with an Israeli victory, and we should provide appropriate humanitarian and military aid to secure this outcome.” Click here to read the full resolution.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-demands-extension-comment-period-additional-public-meetings-0,"Newhouse Demands an Extension of Comment Period, Additional Public Meetings on Grizzly Introduction in Central Washington",2023-10-06,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"October 6, 2023 Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) demanded the National Park Service (NPS) and Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) extend the public comment period on a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and accompanying 10(j) proposal under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) on the Establishment of a Nonessential Experimental Population of Grizzly Bear in the North Cascades Ecosystem in Washington State. “Time and again, Central Washingtonians have expressed their deep concerns about the introduction of grizzlies into the North Cascades, as they are a danger to the safety of their communities,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Despite this opposition, the Biden Administration is set on moving forward with the introduction of these apex predators against the will of locals. That’s why I’m demanding an extension of the public comment period on this proposed relocation of bears so that the members of our region impacted by this have adequate time to review and respond.” Joining Rep. Newhouse on the letter are Representatives Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), Russ Fulcher (ID-01), Cliff Bentz (OR-02), Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), and Matt Rosendale (MT-02). Read the full letter here. Background: The North Cascades Grizzly Bear Restoration Plan/Environmental Impact Statement was first proposed by the Obama Administration. Central Washington communities surrounding the North Cascades National Park were not provided an adequate opportunity to give their input on the proposal. In March 2017, Rep. Newhouse wrote to North Cascades National Park Service Superintendent Karen Taylor-Goodrich to express opposition to the plan, citing an inadequate level of local community input and encouraging federal agencies to defer to state and local authorities on grizzly bear management efforts. On April 12, 2018, Rep. Newhouse wrote a letter to former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, expressing his deep concern regarding the then-Secretary’s support for the proposal. On June 6, 2018, the House Appropriations Committee approved Rep. Newhouse’s amendment to the FY19 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act that would deny funding to the U.S. Department of Interior to be used for the transport of grizzly bears in the North Cascades until local communities had the chance to adequately submit their public comments. The amendment was included in the passage of the final FY19 Interior Appropriations language. On July 19, 2018, the full House of Representatives approved legislation containing Rep. Newhouse’s amendment to deny funding used for the transport of grizzly bears in the North Cascades. In October 2019, hundreds of North Central Washington residents attended a public listening session – requested by Rep. Newhouse – in Okanogan, Washington, where officials from the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife listened to local concerns on the proposal to introduce grizzly bears into the North Cascades Ecosystem. U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Fish & Wildlife Rob Wallace was at the Okanogan County Fairgrounds Agriplex as many of the more than 600 North Central Washington residents provided up to two minutes of oral comment on the record. As reported by Capital Press, 50 people spoke in opposition to grizzly bear introduction, and 12 people spoke in support. On July 7, 2020, Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary David Bernhardt visited North Central Washington, where he announced after following the federal rulemaking process, reviewing hundreds of local public comments, and hosting a public comment listening session in Okanogan County last year, DOI concluded that grizzly bears will not be introduced into the North Cascades Ecosystem. On November 10, 2022, the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced initiation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process with four virtual meetings to evaluate options for restoring and managing grizzly bears in the North Cascades of Washington. Over 6,200 comments were received on the draft EIS, with the vast majority coming from outside of Washington state. On September 28, 2023, the U.S. National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service announced their intention to seek public comment on a proposed rule under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act related to the potential introduction of grizzly bears in the North Cascades. ### Issues: Public Lands",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-condemns-nps-and-fws-announcement-grizzlies-north-cascades,Newhouse Condemns NPS and FWS Announcement on Grizzlies in North Cascades,2023-09-28,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"September 28, 2023 Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement reacting to an announcement from the U.S. National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service seeking public comment on a proposed rule under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act related to the potential introduction of grizzly bears in the North Cascades. “The National Parks Service and Fish and Wildlife Service should end this process immediately by rescinding the draft EIS and proposed 10(j) rule. The introduction of grizzlies into the North Cascades would be devastating for our North Central Washington communities,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Time and again, our communities have spoken to express staunch opposition to the introduction of these apex predators, which would be detrimental to our families, wildlife, and livestock alike. The introduction of grizzlies has also been deemed illegal by the Washington state legislature since 1995. I’m beyond disappointed that the Biden Administration is ignoring our concerns by moving forward with the introduction while putting on the façade of seeking more public input after their decision has clearly been made. It’s past time for the Biden Administration to listen to my constituents’ voices, who overwhelmingly oppose this decision, instead of forcing bad policy on us from D.C. bureaucrats and environmental activists in California.” Background: The North Cascades Grizzly Bear Restoration Plan/Environmental Impact Statement was first proposed by the Obama Administration. Central Washington communities surrounding the North Cascades National Park were not provided an adequate opportunity to give their input on the proposal. In March 2017, Rep. Newhouse wrote to North Cascades National Park Service Superintendent Karen Taylor-Goodrich to express opposition to the plan, citing an inadequate level of local community input and encouraging federal agencies to defer to state and local authorities on grizzly bear management efforts. On April 12, 2018, Rep. Newhouse wrote a letter to former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, expressing his deep concern regarding the then-Secretary’s support for the proposal. On June 6, 2018, the House Appropriations Committee approved Rep. Newhouse’s amendment to the FY19 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act that would deny funding to the U.S. Department of Interior to be used for the transport of grizzly bears in the North Cascades until local communities had the chance to adequately submit their public comments. The amendment was included in the passage of the final FY19 Interior Appropriations language. On July 19, 2018, the full House of Representatives approved legislation containing Rep. Newhouse’s amendment to deny funding used for the transport of grizzly bears in the North Cascades. In October 2019, hundreds of North Central Washington residents attended a public listening session – requested by Rep. Newhouse – in Okanogan, Washington, where officials from the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife listened to local concerns on the proposal to introduce grizzly bears into the North Cascades Ecosystem. U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Fish & Wildlife Rob Wallace was at the Okanogan County Fairgrounds Agriplex as many of the more than 600 North Central Washington residents provided up to two minutes of oral comment on the record. As reported by Capital Press, 50 people spoke in opposition to grizzly bear introduction, and 12 people spoke in support. On July 7, 2020, Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary David Bernhardt visited North Central Washington, where he announced after following the federal rulemaking process, reviewing hundreds of local public comments, and hosting a public comment listening session in Okanogan County last year, DOI concluded that grizzly bears will not be introduced into the North Cascades Ecosystem. On November 10, 2022, the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced initiation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process with four virtual meetings to evaluate options for restoring and managing grizzly bears in the North Cascades of Washington. Over 6,200 comments were received on the draft EIS, with the vast majority coming from outside of Washington state. ### Issues: Public Lands",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-biden-administrations-plan-four-lower-snake-river,Newhouse Statement on the Biden Administration’s Plan for the Four Lower Snake River Dams,2023-09-27,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after the Biden Administration released a memorandum outlining its plan for fish mitigation in the Columbia River Basin: “The direction from President Biden proves that his Administration and dam-breaching advocates will continue to pretend to hear feedback from the community to give the perception that residents and stakeholders are being heard. The sad truth is, this has not been a collaborative process all along and they are only seeking to accomplish one predetermined outcome: a breach of the Four Lower Snake River Dams,” said Rep. Newhouse. Rep. Newhouse continued: “While there may not be explicit recommendations to breach the Lower Snake River Dams in this memorandum, that is the goal of this Administration. This announcement is bureaucracy at its worst and the fact remains that these dams are vital to our economy, our efforts to reduce carbon emissions, and the ability to send our commodities overseas. The Columbia River Basin is one of our most valuable natural resources in the Pacific Northwest and I will continue to fight each and every day against this Administration’s efforts to breach these vital dams.” Background: On Wednesday, September 27th, the Biden Administration released a memorandum titled “Restoring Healthy and Abundant Salmon, Steelhead, and Other Native Fish Populations in the Columbia River Basin,” outlining its plan for fish mitigation in the Columbia River Basin. A stay in long-running litigation over the Snake River Dams has been extended for 60 days from August 31st to October 31st to allow federal mediation to continue, but key stakeholders and community members directly impacted by the litigation are being left in the dark as negotiations take place behind closed doors. The Biden Administration and dam-breaching advocates are intent on achieving a “de facto” breach of the Four Lower Snake River Dams by opening the gates to reduce the water below the minimum operating levels for hydroelectric generation. Rep. Newhouse has been leading the efforts to protect the Four Lower Snake River Dams: This month, in a House Committee on Natural Resources hearing examining the systematic overreach from the Biden Administration’s Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), he addressed the lack of transparency and public input throughout the mediation process of the Four Lower Snake River Dams. On September 13, 2023, Rep. Newhouse sent a letter to CEQ Chair Brenda Mallory alongside House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries Chair Cliff Bentz (R-OR) and Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Russ Fulcher (R-ID), and Matt Rosendale (R-MT) expressed their concerns with the mediation process. In June, Rep. Newhouse and the House Committee on Natural Resources hosted a field hearing in Richland, WA to discuss the importance the four Lower Snake River Dams have to Central Washington and the Pacific Northwest. This Congress, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Northwest Energy Security Act to protect the Four Lower Snake River Dams. The legislation supports the Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS) and the many benefits it brings to our region by improving and maintaining hydropower assets, ensuring operations throughout the system are conducted in accordance with the latest federal scientific review, and continuing to allow native salmon to recover at record rates. In September 2020, the “Columbia River System Operations Environmental Impact Statement Record of Decision” for the Columbia River System Operation Environmental Impact Statement (CRSO EIS) published by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and Bonneville Power Administration, found that the Lower Snake River Dams should not be breached. Rather, efforts should be focused on improving and maintaining hydropower assets while working to improve salmon passage and conditions. In May 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray publicly rebuked plans to breach the Lower Snake River Dams. On October 15, 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray announced plans to assess the breaching of the Lower Snake River Dams. On October 21, 2021, the Department of Justice announced a settlement reached between the CRSO EIS plaintiffs and federal agencies on injunctive relief, including a stay on the CRSO EIS litigation until July 2022. On October 22, 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray announced the next steps to deliver a report intended to justify breaching the Lower Snake River Dams by July 2022. Reps. Newhouse, McMorris Rodgers, and Jaime Herrera Beutler released a joint statement reacting to the announcement. In June 2022, Rep. Newhouse led Congressional Western Caucus Members from across the United States on a field tour of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, including a tour of the Ice Harbor Dam. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-secures-funding-replace-methow-river-water-main,Newhouse Secures Funding to Replace Methow River Water Main,2023-09-25,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced the Town of Winthrop’s request for Community Project Funding to replace the existing water main over the Methow River was officially awarded. “As a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, I have a unique opportunity to submit essential funding requests for the communities of Central Washington,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The water main in the Town of Winthrop is critical to the livelihood of the Winthrop community as it serves more than 70% of the town's residents and businesses, but it is failing. I’m proud to help provide the town with a reliable and safe water system for years to come.” “Congressman Newhouse introduced the appropriation process and supported the Water Line Replacement Project for the town. Securing funding for these projects is difficult for a small community and replacement of this pipe is essential to providing safe reliable water to our residents and businesses. This appropriation will service Winthrop for another 50 years,” said Town of Winthrop Mayor Sally Ranzau. Background: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $667,000 to the Town of Winthrop for the Water Main Reconstruction Project, as identified in the FY 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act. In FY 2023, Congress appropriated resources for 715 congressionally directed water infrastructure projects (EPA Community Grants) totaling $1.47 billion under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (P.L. 117 – 328). These projects provide a valuable source of federal funding for water infrastructure that will complement the resources Congress provided in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the annual appropriations process. The existing water main over the Methow River was installed in 1965 and is failing. It is the only water main across the Methow River and serves more than 70% of the town’s population and businesses as well as the sole supply for firefighting. As the representative of Washington’s 4th Congressional District, Rep. Newhouse has the opportunity to submit up to 15 requests for Community Project Funding. These requests are meant to restore Congress’s Article I powers by ensuring that federal funding is directly targeted toward projects that benefit surrounding communities and the district as a whole.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-resolution-honor-gold-star-families-1,Newhouse Introduces Resolution to Honor Gold Star Families,2023-09-22,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Gold Star Families Remembrance Week Resolution with House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL) and Reps. Scott Franklin (R-FL) and Annie Kuster (D-NH). The resolution establishes a national week to honor the sacrifices made by families of U.S. military servicemembers who lost their lives in service to the nation and designates September 24th to 30th, 2023 as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week. The resolution is also led by House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL) and Reps. Scott Franklin (R-FL) and Annie Kuster (D-NH). “Our servicemembers and their families have sacrificed so much for our country. We not only owe our fallen military heroes an enormous debt, but we owe their families whom they left behind,” said Rep. Newhouse. “During Gold Star Families Remembrance Week, we honor the surviving families by recognizing their immense sacrifice and ensure our nation’s fallen heroes will always be remembered.” “The tremendous sacrifice that our Gold Star Families have made on behalf of our nation should never go unrecognized,” said Chairman Bost. “I commend my colleague and friend, Rep. Newhouse, for introducing a bill to designate the week of September 24th through September 30th as Gold Star Family Remembrance Week. This dedication will strengthen the promise we have made to the surviving spouses and families of our fallen heroes that they will never be forgotten.” ""As a husband, father and career Naval officer, I know serving our country is a sacrifice made by the whole family, especially for Gold Star Families,” said Rep. Franklin. “I’m proud to join Rep. Newhouse in honoring these brave Americans who lost their loved ones in action."" “Our Gold Star families represent the best our country has to offer – we owe it to them to remember their fallen loved one and honor the incredible sacrifice they have made,” said Rep. Kuster. “As we recognize Gold Star Families Remembrance Week, we recommit ourselves to always standing with our military families and the brave American service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.” “Joining the military is truly a family commitment to our country,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers. “Tragically for some, that commitment includes a loved one making the ultimate sacrifice. As Americans, it’s important that we not only honor the lives of those who gave their last breath for our freedom, but also remember the pain and heartache of the loved ones they left behind. I’m proud to help introduce this resolution to recognize Gold Star Families and ensure they have the unwavering support of an eternally grateful nation.” The following Members are primary co-sponsors of the legislation: Reps. Carbajal (D-CA), Carter (R-GA), Castor (D-FL), Cline (R-VA), Costa (D-CA), Crenshaw (R-TX), Davids (D-KS), De La Cruz (R-TX), Ellzey (R-TX), Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Franklin (R-GA), Graves (R-MO), Green (R-TN), Guest (R-MS), Hudson (R-NC), Johnson (R-OH), Kean (R-NJ), Kiggans (R-VA), Kiley (R-CA), Kilmer (D-WA), Kim (D-NJ), Kuster (D-NH), Larsen (D-WA), Mace (R-SC), Manning (D-MI), McMorris-Rodgers (R-WA), Miller (R-OH), Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Murphy (R-NC), Nunn (R-IA), Pfluger (R-TX), Philips (D-MN), Rouzer (R-NC), Smith (R-NJ), Stefanik (R-NY), Strickland (D-WA), Tenney (R-NY), Thompson (R-PA), Torres (D-CA), Van Drew (R-NJ), Vargas (D-CA), Williams (R-TX), and Zinke (R-MT). The resolution is also supported by The American Legion, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), Tribute to the Troops, Honor & Remember, Gold Star Mentors, America’s Gold Star Mothers, Children of Fallen Patriots, My Warriors Place, Gold Star Peak Inc., America’s Gold Star Families, Gold Star Awareness Inc., Gold Star Ride Foundation, Freedom Voice Inc., and Captain Joseph House Foundation. Quotes of Support: “The sacrifices made by service members and their families are far too often underappreciated. As Americans, we owe the utmost gratitude to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for this great country. With this duty in mind, the American Legion proudly supports the Gold Star Families Remembrance Week Resolution, a bipartisan and bicameral effort to recognize the sacrifices made by the families of fallen service members. Through community service and acts of remembrance, Gold Star Family Remembrance Week is a step forward in repaying the selflessness of these fallen members and their brave families. We encourage our fellow citizens to continue working as a united front to uplift and honor the service members and families who have given us the greatest privileges of freedom and security.” – Daniel J. Seehafer, National Commander, The American Legion “The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) appreciates Representatives Newhouse and Kuster for introducing the 2023 Gold Star Families Resolution to designate a full week to honor all of our nation’s Gold Star families. Memorial Day exists to honor the fallen, but Gold Star Families Remembrance Week provides the opportunity to honor surviving military families themselves. TAPS is hosting 100 Gold Star Families on Capitol Hill that week to advocate for expanded and improved benefits for our community, and we call on Congress to support these efforts.” – Bonnie Carroll, President and Founder, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). “I am writing to express wholehearted support for the resolution endorsing Gold Star Family Remembrance Week. As a group of Americans, we believe that it is of paramount importance to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by the families of our fallen heroes. Gold Star Family Remembrance Week serves as a poignant reminder of the tremendous toll that military service can take on the families left behind. These families have given the most precious gift of all - their loved ones - to defend our freedoms and protect our nation. This resolution not only pays tribute to the fallen but also provides a platform for raising awareness about the unique challenges that Gold Star Families face.” – Robert Swanson, Chairman, Tribute to the Troops ""Recognizing our nation’s Gold Star families is an obligation and responsibility of us all. The creation of an extended week of remembrance will ensure additional opportunity to educate more of our citizens on the sacrifice made by so many."" – George Lutz, Gold Star Father & Executive Director, Honor and Remember, Inc. “Gold Star Mentors offers its full support of the annual Gold Star Family Remembrance Week resolution. On behalf of our board of directors and its founder Brett Jones we encourage others to join in this effort.” – Ern Sherman, Chairman, Gold Star Mentors “American Gold Star Mothers, Inc., is proud to support the proposed resolution regarding Gold Star Family Remembrance Week. Every day is Memorial Day for the families of our Fallen Heroes, and it is our hope that the Gold Star Family Remembrance Week will encourage the people of the United States to recognize the sacrifices made by so many American families and join us in celebrating the lives of our Fallen Heroes.” – Pam Stemple, National President, American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. “I strongly support the effort in Congress to designate the week of September 25th as Gold Star Family Remembrance Week. As someone who knows many Gold Star families, I realize how important it is to them to know that their servicemember's death and their own personal loss are not forgotten by their fellow Americans.” – Holly Petraeus, Board Member, Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation “As a Double Gold Star, to brother Sgt. Terrance R. Mesenburg & son SrA. XinHua S. Mesenburg, I strongly express my support for the resolution by Representatives Newhouse, Kuster and Franklin to honor Gold Star families with a week of remembrance from September 24th. thru September 30th. Anything we can do to bring awareness to the general public about those families that have endured the ultimate sacrifice would be an incredible way to let those families know that their loved ones will never be forgotten.” – Mitch Mesenburg, My Warrior’s Place Board of Directors Member & President, Operation Solid 7 “Our freedoms as a nation ahve come at a grave cost, paid for by the lives of our servicemen and women. Unfortunately, their sacrifice doesn't stop there but goes on to leave an indelible hole in their loved ones' lives. Gold Star Peak, Inc. is proud to support the resolution recognizing September 24th through September 30th as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week. Gold Star Families have sacrificed more than any other group of Americans; they have lost loved ones, children, siblings, spouses, and parents for our freedom. Through education and advocacy, we commit to them that the price they have paid shall never be forgotten or taken for granted. We shall not forget!” – Kirk R. Alkire, U.S. Army Retired, President, Gold Star Peak, Inc. ""America's Gold Star Families is supportive and grateful for this resolution. We are happy to see the extension of Gold Star Mother's Day expanded to include all family members for a longer period of time. It is always fitting and appropriate that we remind one another of the sacrifices made so the rest of the population is able to enjoy life and pursue their dreams in the United States of America. Another small way to say, 'Thank you from a grateful nation!'” – Patti Latch, Executive Director, America's Gold Star Families “The Board of Directors of Captain Joseph House Foundation support the Gold Star Family Remembrance Week (September 24-30) resolution. Our mission is to Honor the Fallen through caring for their Families left behind. Our program supports a grieving Family as a whole; providing an opportunity for creating relationships in a Family-to-Family setting, home-away-from-home with up to three Families in a week.” – Betsy Schultz, Executive Director, Captain Joseph House Foundation Click here to read the full text of the bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-address-skyrocketing-adolescent,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Address Skyrocketing Adolescent Fentanyl Overdose Rates,2023-09-21,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), introduced the Stop Overdose in Schools Act to address the skyrocketing adolescent fentanyl overdose rate with Reps. Kim Schrier (D-WA), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Ryan Zinke (R-MT), and John Moolenaar (R-MI). This legislation would set aside funding for naloxone training and purchasing and increases naloxone access for school resource officers, security personnel, and school nurses. “Fentanyl overdoses are now the leading cause of death for people ages 18-45, and no community has been left untouched by this crisis,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I am proud to introduce the Stop Overdose in Schools Act, which would address the skyrocketing adolescent overdose rate, since it has become clear that our police and school resource officers need more support. This bill will be absolutely critical in helping our hardworking frontline workers prevent the tragic drug-related overdose deaths of Central Washington—and America’s—youth.” “The opioid epidemic is a devastating public health crisis that has impacted every part of our nation, including our children. As a mother, a pediatrician, and a congresswoman, I am concerned and understand this issue needs to be addressed from every angle, and that includes in schools,” said Rep. Schrier, M.D. “The Stop Overdose in Schools Act will allow for school administrators, security personnel, and nurses to be trained in the administration of opioid reversal agents, with a focus in areas with high rates of drug-related overdoses in youth and in rural communities. This should be part of a greater strategy to educate parents and children about the danger of taking any pill not prescribed by a physician and purchased in a pharmacy because ‘one pill can kill.’ It is time to address this issue and keep our children safe from what could very easily be a fatal overdose.” “Opioid overdose deaths among children and adolescents have risen exponentially in the last several years, and some of those young lives could have been saved if they had been treated quickly,” said Rep Strickland. “While we work in Congress to address the root causes of the opioid crisis in this country, with this legislation, Rep. Newhouse and I are making sure that those on the frontlines of this battle have all the tools they need to save lives.” “Facing the heartbreaking rise in adolescent overdoses requires bold action and immediate support to our schools,” said Rep. Kilmer. “The Stop Overdose in Schools Act represents a profound commitment to our young people and the future of communities grappling with substance abuse. There’s no silver bullet to ending overdose deaths – it’s more like a silver buckshot approach – and I’m committed to getting federal resources into our communities to protect folks from the dangers of opioid addiction.” “Making sure kids are safe at school shouldn’t be a Republican or Democrat issue, it’s an American issue, which is why this legislation is so important to me. Although Montana is far from the Mexican border, we are feeling the effects of the drug cartels smuggling deadly fentanyl across our northern border. Unfortunately, their first stop is the Blackfeet Reservation, and that fentanyl ends up poisoning kids who don’t even know they are taking it,” said Rep. Zinke. “The Stop Overdoes in Schools Act will help to save lives by equipping and training school staff with Narcan to reverse the effects of fentanyl overdose and poisoning. This is a life-saving and common-sense resource that should be readily available in schools and the bill cannot pass quick enough. I am very proud to be a sponsor of this legislation.” “The opioid crisis has impacted Michigan families of every background. Unfortunately, this issue has begun to affect more school children than ever before,” said Rep. Moolenaar. “I am supporting this legislation because it will increase access to life-saving resources and help make sure rural schools in particular receive much-needed funding to confront this crisis,” said Moolenaar. “NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, is appreciative of Representative Newhouse as he seeks to increase naloxone access for school resource officers, security personnel, and school nurses and educate those that have first responder contact with American’s youth. The Stop Overdoes in Schools Act allows for 50% of the recipients of this pilot program to be located in rural areas, the areas we know that receive the least amount of resources. NAADAC also applauds that the other 50% is prioritized in school districts with high rates of drug overdoses by youth. This is an important step in lowering the overdose and death rates among youth in American.”— Cynthia Moreno Tuohy, BSW BSW, NCACII, CDCIII, SAP, Executive Director of NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals Click here to read the full text of the bill. Background: Over the past couple of years, we have seen a dramatic increase in adolescent drug overdose–largely due to the substantial influx of illicit fentanyl in our communities. During 2019, the first year of the COVID-19 global pandemic, overdose mortality increased by 94%. Unfortunately, this trend continued throughout 2020 and 2021 with an additional increase by 20%. More than 77% of these overdoses were directly caused by fentanyl-related substances. The Stop Overdoses in Schools Act is a re-introduction from the 117th Congress, H.R. 7189. Specifically, this bill: Set aside funds for naloxone training and purchasing. Increases naloxone access for school resource officers, security personnel, and school nurses. Requires that 50 percent of the grants be awarded to school districts in rural areas. Requires that the remaining 50 percent be prioritized to school districts located in areas with high rates of drug-related overdoses by youth. Addresses the skyrocketing adolescent overdose rate. Naloxone is beneficial to school resource officers through the following: Naloxone, (frequently referred to by the brand name, “Narcan”) is an FDA-approved drug that reverses the effects of opioids, including fentanyl, by blocking their uptake in the bloodstream. If administered quickly, either by injection or nasal spray, it can prevent someone who has overdosed from dying. School resource officers and school nurses are often the first ones on the scene in the event of an overdose that occurs during the school day. If equipped with Naloxone and prepared to deploy it effectively, they can prevent and reduce the number of opioid overdose deaths. Lack of availability and high costs of the necessary personnel, training, and the drug itself are prohibitive to schools in rural areas – whose budgets are already and increasingly constrained - seeking to develop effective overdose response programs. Rep. Newhouse has been leading the effort to combat the fentanyl crisis in Central Washington and in U.S. Congress: In June, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Law Enforcement Officers Preventing Overdose Deaths Act, a pilot grant program for rural community response to allow state and local law enforcement agencies to purchase naloxone, an effective tool to prevent and reduce opioid overdose deaths, and directs at least 50% of the programs’ grant funding to rural communities. Earlier this year, Rep. Newhouse launched the Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force, a working group of consisting of groups and individuals on the local and state levels who are on the frontlines fighting the fentanyl crisis throughout Central Washington. Task Force members include law enforcement, addiction treatment groups, medical professionals, drug court officials, school resource officers, tribal leaders, elected officials, and community leaders. This October, the task force will hold its second quarterly meeting. In March, Rep. Newhouse introduced the William and James Wonacott Act, named after two Yakima brothers who succumbed to fentanyl in separate instances. The legislation enhances penalties for those who sell, give, or distribute any substance that contains two milligrams or more of illicit fentanyl or fentanyl-related substances to another person without their knowledge. In January, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act or SAFE Act to permanently schedule all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-condemns-new-mexico-governors-attempt-destroy-2a-rights,Newhouse Condemns New Mexico Governor's Attempt to Destroy 2A Rights,2023-09-14,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced a House Resolution to condemn New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for her “emergency public health order” that prohibits the open and concealed carry of firearms in Albuquerque and its surrounding county, including city sidewalks and parks. Violators of this order may face civil penalties and fines up to $5,000. This order is a direct attack on New Mexicans’ Second Amendment right and Rep. Newhouse’s resolution is a formal condemnation from U.S. Congress. “The shocking move from Governor Grisham is a blatant subversion of the U.S. Constitution and a violation of her oath of office while she deprives the citizens of New Mexico of their right to bear arms. The Governor’s action should send a chill up every American’s spine as it strips away the protection of individual rights and freedom, which sets a dangerous precedent for the rights of Central Washingtonians and Americans across our nation,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I’m proud to lead this resolution to condemn the Governor's actions and I call on her to rescind her order immediately.” READ THE EXCLUSIVE STORY FROM FOX NEWS HERE “The order is Constitutionally baseless, and there are no laws or regulations giving the state’s Regulation and Licensing Department authority to inspect federally licensed firearm retailers,” said National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence Keane. “By falsely declaring a rise in crime as a public health emergency and suspending the rights of the law-abiding people of New Mexico, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is proving her contempt for the U.S. Bill of Rights, New Mexico's Constitution, her oath of office and the voters of New Mexico. NSSF appreciates Congressman Newhouse’s leadership in pushing back against this blatant and unconstitutional power grab and joins him in this fight."" Click here to read the full text of the bill. The House Resolution is led by Rep. Newhouse and supported by the National Rifle Association (NRA), the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN), House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-NY), House Republican Conference Vice Chair Mike Johnson (R-LA), Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), and Reps Ryan Zinke (R-MT), August Pfluger (R-TX), Roger Williams (R-TX), Rick Crawford (R-AR), James Moylan (R-Guam), Michael Burgess (R-TX), Paul Gosar (R-AZ), Jake Ellzey (R-TX), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), Tom McClintock (R-CA), Mark Alford (R-MO), Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ), Barry Moore (R-AL), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Burgess Owens (R-UT), Eli Crane (R-AZ), Tom Tiffany (R-WI), Mike Collins (R-GA), Troy Balderson (R-OH), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), John Moolenaar (R-MI), Troy Nehls (R-TX), Richard Hudson (R-NC), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), Jerry Carl (R-AL), George Santos (R-NY), Alex Mooney (R-WV), Chris Stewart (R-UT), Mike Bost (R-IL), Bob Latta (R-OH), Darrell Issa (R-CA), Diana Harshbarger (R-TX), Tom Cole (R-OK), Buddy Carter (R-GA), Tony Gonzales (R-TX), Matt Rosendale (R-MT), William Timmons (R-SC), David Valadao (R-CA), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Harriet Hageman (R-WY), Austin Scott (R-GA), Andrew Clyde (R-GA), Josh Brecheen (R-OK), Kat Cammack (R-FL), Pete Sessions (R-TX), Bill Johnson (R-OH), Jim Baird (R-IN), Carol Miller (R-WV), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Keith Self (R-TX), Ronny Jackson (R-TX), Pete Stauber (R-MN), and Glenn Grothman (R-WI).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-urges-transparency-during-snake-river-dam-mediation-process,Newhouse Urges for Transparency During Snake River Dam Mediation Process,2023-09-14,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) joined the House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations hearing examining the systematic overreach from the Biden Administration’s Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), where he addressed the lack of transparency and public input throughout the mediation process of the Four Lower Snake River Dams. Additionally, Rep. Newhouse sent a letter to CEQ Chair Brenda Mallary, who refused to attend today’s hearing, to urge the CEQ to utilize the remainder of the 60-day stay to productively engage with all the parties to the litigation in the mediation process. WATCH REP. NEWHOUSE’S REMARKS AND QUESTIONS HERE Read the letter Rep. Newhouse sent to CEQ Chair Brenda Mallary alongside House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries Chair Cliff Bentz (R-OR) and Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Russ Fulcher (R-ID), and Matt Rosendale (R-MT) here or see excerpts below: As members of the Pacific Northwest delegation, we write to urge that you utilize the remainder of the 60-day stay to productively engage with all the parties to the litigation in the mediation process. Over the past two years, we have continually heard from stakeholders that they are left in the dark as negotiations take place. While the mediation process is confidential, many of the intervenor defendants have expressed deep reservations and considerable disappointment regarding the overall process that has been followed. Of particular concern is the Biden administration's apparent push to forgo trying to reach a ""consensus"" resolution and instead advance a predetermined outcome of dam removal. Over the summer, the Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries held a field hearing in Richland, Washington, titled ""The Northwest at Risk: The Environmentalist's Effort to Destroy Navigation, Transportation, and Access to Reliable Power."" There, the Subcommittee heard from multiple industries and stakeholders on the importance and benefits the four lower Snake River dams provide to river communities, electric power cooperatives, the economy, and the environment. Unfortunately, it has become clear that this mediation process fails to allow meaningful input from the intervenor defendants. These organizations represent millions of electricity customers, farmers, river-dependent ports, transportation, and export sectors across the Northwest whose livelihoods and interests have not had a true seat at the table. This is deeply concerning, as it implies that a small group of stakeholders is attempting to dictate decisions for our entire region regarding our climate response, electricity rates, transportation, grid reliability, food and energy security, and the future of river-dependent communities without the full opportunity of affected stakeholders to participate. If our shared goal to establish ""a durable long-term strategy"" is truly the priority, then itis imperative that an inclusive mediation process needs to take place to best account for the impacts to the region's ratepayers, and the economy. It is unacceptable that the mediation negotiations are being conducted behind closed doors via private caucuses to craft concessions to plaintiffs without regard to the impacts to the region's ratepayers, the economy, or ensuring that the Congressionally authorized purposes of the Columbia River System are met. We implore you to redirect your efforts towards engaging all stakeholders in the region rather than solely focusing on the plaintiffs. This will ensure a more productive, inclusive, and transparent mediation process. Background: A stay in long-running litigation over the Snake River Dams has been extended for 60 days from August 31st to October 31st to allow federal mediation to continue, but key stakeholders and community members directly impacted by the litigation are being left in the dark as negotiations take place behind closed doors. The Biden Administration and dam-breaching advocates are intent on achieving a “de facto” breach of the Four Lower Snake River Dams by opening the gates to reduce the water below the minimum operating levels for hydroelectric generation. Rep. Newhouse has been leading the efforts to protect the Four Lower Snake River Dams: In June, Rep. Newhouse and the House Committee on Natural Resources hosted a field hearing in Richland, WA to discuss the importance the four Lower Snake River Dams have to Central Washington and the Pacific Northwest. This Congress, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Northwest Energy Security Act to protect the Four Lower Snake River Dams. The legislation supports the Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS) and the many benefits it brings to our region by improving and maintaining hydropower assets, ensuring operations throughout the system are conducted in accordance with the latest federal scientific review, and continuing to allow native salmon to recover at record rates. In September 2020, the “Columbia River System Operations Environmental Impact Statement Record of Decision” for the Columbia River System Operation Environmental Impact Statement (CRSO EIS) published by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and Bonneville Power Administration, found that the Lower Snake River Dams should not be breached. Rather, efforts should be focused on improving and maintaining hydropower assets while working to improve salmon passage and conditions. In May 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray publicly rebuked plans to breach the Lower Snake River Dams. On October 15, 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray announced plans to assess the breaching of the Lower Snake River Dams. On October 21, 2021, the Department of Justice announced a settlement reached between the CRSO EIS plaintiffs and federal agencies on injunctive relief, including a stay on the CRSO EIS litigation until July 2022. On October 22, 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray announced next steps to deliver a report intended to justify breaching the Lower Snake River Dams by July 2022. Reps. Newhouse, McMorris Rodgers, and Jaime Herrera Beutler released a joint statement reacting to the announcement. In June 2022, Rep. Newhouse led Congressional Western Caucus Members from across the United States on a field tour of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, including a tour of the Ice Harbor Dam.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-stop-biden-administration-banning-your,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Stop the Biden Administration from Banning Your Washing Machine,2023-09-13,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), alongside Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI) introduced the Withdrawing Absurd, Senseless, and Haphazard Energy Regulations (WASHER) Act to stop the Department of Energy from implementing new rules on washing machines that would regulate them to be less efficient. The WASHER Act would also prohibit the Department of Energy from implementing similar rules in the future. “Whether it’s gas stoves, dishwashers, gas-powered cars, or washing machines, it’s clear the Biden Administration will go through any means necessary to push their extreme climate agenda while sacrificing consumer choice and the American way of life,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I am proud to introduce this legislation to stop the outrageous energy standards proposed by the Biden Administration and protect Americans’ wallets, time, and freedom. Central Washingtonians and the American people are tired of the government trying to overregulate our lives instead of focusing on solutions that will truly benefit our energy future.” Click here to read the full text of the bill. Background: In March, the Biden Administration’s Department of Energy proposed a regulation that would require new washing machines to use less water at lower temperatures. In June, Rep. Newhouse voted to support the adoption of Rep. Moolenaar’s amendment to the House Appropriations Committee’s Energy and Water Development bill, which barred the Department of Energy from using any of its funding to enforce environmental regulations proposed by the Biden Administration. This Congress, Rep. Newhouse introduced an amendment to the House Appropriations Committee’s Energy and Water Development bill that will prohibit funds for the Department of Energy (DOE) to finalize, implement, or enforce a similar energy standard on gas stoves. The amendment was adopted by voice vote.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-support-agritourism-central-0,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Support Agritourism in Central Washington,2023-08-11,2023,2023-08,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) introduced the Accelerating the Growth of Rural Innovation and Tourism Opportunities to Uphold Rural Industries and Sustainable Marketplaces (AGRITOURISM) Act. This legislation would create an Office of Agritourism at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to serve as a dedicated voice for agritourism businesses in the federal government and to consolidate federal resources to sustain agritourism businesses, such as loans, grants, and broadband connectivity programs. “Central Washington is proud to be the home of world-class wineries, breweries, farms, dairies, farmers' markets, and more that all serve as vital parts of the agritourism industry and make our region so special,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I am proud to introduce the Agritourism Act to ensure that these local businesses have an advocate within USDA which will in turn help preserve our important agriculture traditions and honor our way of life.” “From wineries to farm breweries to u-picks to farm stands, agritourism is spurring economic development in rural communities all across our country,” said Rep. Wexton. “I’ve heard from too many small business owners in our region about how hard it is to get connected with the resources that they need to grow their agritourism businesses, which is why I’m proud to be leading the bipartisan AGRITOURISM Act establish a dedicated Office of Agritourism within the U.S. Department of Agriculture. As founder of the Congressional Agritourism Caucus and representative of hundreds of thriving agritourism businesses here in Virginia, I’m proud to help elevate the voices of our nation’s agritourism business owners and ensure their needs are heard here in Washington.” Click here to read the full text of the bill. “Agritourism is essential to the survival of the wine industry and Congressman Newhouse knows this better than anyone. This bill will help Washington wineries in his district and across the state immensely by promoting agritourism in ways that have not been done in the past,” said Josh McDonald, Executive Director of the Washington Wine Institute, an industry trade group representing Washington wineries. “The NAFDMA International Agritourism Association continues to support the introduction of this legislation and we appreciate the awareness it brings to the agritourism aspect of agriculture. Farms today are looking to connect with consumers in new and innovative ways, and agritourism can be that conduit for many as they also look for diversification options in their farm business. This legislation may allow USDA to incorporate agritourism more fully into their service model,” said Suzi Spahr, Executive Director of the NAFDMA International Agritourism Association. The AGRITOURISM Act is supported by the International Agritourism Association (NAFDMA), American Craft Spirits Association, Brewers Association, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, WineAmerica, and Wine Institute. The legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Josh Harder (D-CA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), David Rouzer (R-NC), and David Valadao (R-CA). Background: Establishing an Office of Agritourism within USDA would provide an advocate for these businesses within the federal government, promote the development of agritourism activities across the country, and ensure federal resources to provide assistance to agritourism businesses are readily accessible to business owners. Agritourism is a successful and expanding industry throughout the country. According to the most recent Census of Agriculture, agritourism-related income jumped from $202 million in 2002 to $949 million in 2017 -- a nearly 370% increase. In communities like Central Washington, agritourism has enabled small farmers to expand their businesses and increase access to high quality local food sources, which has boosted local economies while maintaining the rural character of the region.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-fights-increased-base-pay-firefighters,Newhouse Fights for Increased Base Pay for Firefighters,2023-08-04,2023,2023-08,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"This week, Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Doug LaMalfa (R-CA) introduced H.R. 4831, the Fair Pay for Federal Firefighters Act. This legislation acts as a short-term solution to prevent the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) from enacting pay cuts to our federal firefighters due to lack of funds. “Our firefighters work tirelessly to keep our communities safe from wildfires, and we owe it to them to advocate for their best interests,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Raising their pay and providing them with increased deployment bonuses will not only attract more talent, but it will also keep our current force motivated while they are in the middle of wildfire season. The Fair Pay for Federal Firefighters Act will prevent the USDA’s drastic cuts and ensure federal firefighters get the pay they deserve.” “Wildland firefighters have some of the toughest jobs out there – their pay needs to reflect the hazardous nature of their work,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “We are in the middle of another fire season and firefighters’ current bonus pay is about to run short from Biden’s Jobs Act three years early. It’s critical that Congress moves swiftly to ensure that federal wildland firefighters don’t leave the workforce due to fear that they’ll take a substantial pay cut unexpectedly in only two months. My bill ensures that federal firefighters get adequate pay, while repurposing existing funds to be fiscally responsible.” The Fair Pay for Federal Firefighters Act will: Establish a new base pay rate scale, with the largest increases going to firefighters at the lowest end of the pay scale. Boost the pay rates so they are in line with pay rates for state and private firefighters. Increase deployment bonuses for firefighters responding to wildfires. Prop up Federal wildland firefighter pay for two years while Congress works on a more permanent solution. Include common-sense forest management provisions. Background: In November 2021, Congress passed the partisan $1.2 trillion “Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act” which contained a section which provided $600 million, split into $480 million for USDA and $120 million for Interior. This money was supposed to last from October 1, 2021, to September 30, 2026 (Fiscal Year 2022 – Fiscal Year 2026) to increase the base pay for wildland firefighters by $20,000 or 50% (whichever is less). Due to lack of foresight and poor management by the Biden Administration, USDA has told Congress that this funding will run out at the end of September 2023, three years early. As a result, there will be immediate cuts in federal wildland firefighter pay in the middle of this year’s fire season. This legislation prevents those cuts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announces-staff-updates,Newhouse Announces Staff Updates,2023-08-02,2023,2023-08,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“It is an honor and a privilege to serve the constituents and rural communities of Washington’s 4th Congressional District as their representative and as Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus. My staff in the district, Washington, D.C., and the Congressional Western Caucus are committed to working with me to accomplish the priorities of Central Washington and regions like ours throughout the rural West,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I am confident our team will help me with critical legislation that will encourage economic growth and job creation, cut bureaucratic red tape, ensure safety in our communities, and safeguard freedom.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-urges-biden-administration-crack-down-ccp-fentanyl-precursors,"Newhouse Urges Biden Administration to Crack Down on CCP Fentanyl Precursors, Human Rights Abuses",2023-08-01,2023,2023-08,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) Chairman Mike Gallagher (R-WI), House Indo-Pacific Subcommittee Chairwoman Young Kim (R-CA), and House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX) sent a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo expressing concerns following reports that the CCP demanded the United States lift sanctions related to human rights abuses in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in order to reach a deal on countering Beijing’s counternarcotics operation—including the production and distribution of fentanyl precursors. Read the full letter here or see excerpts below. We write to express our deep concern with recent reporting that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) may only restart counternarcotics cooperation with the United States if we lift sanctions on the Ministry of Public Security’s Institute of Forensic Science. On July 24, the Wall Street Journal reported that Chinese officials said the “U.S. must first remove the sanctions on the police institute [the Ministry of Public Security’s Institute of Forensic Science] as a precondition for restarting joint counternarcotics works.” China’s Ministry of Public Security’s (MPS) Institute of Forensic Science was added to the Department of Commerce’s Entity List on June 5, 2020, for engaging in human rights violations and abuses in the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region (XUAR). This demonstrates the CCP’s continued efforts to link unrelated issues as a negotiation tactic and to leverage diplomatic engagement as a reward for CCP-perceived “good behavior.” The CCP is using American lives as a bargaining chip to achieve sanctions relief for its human rights abuses. According to the Center for Disease Control, more than 105,000 Americans died of drug overdoses, with 66 percent of those deaths related to synthetic opioids including fentanyl in the 12-month period ending in October 2021. Further, fentanyl overdoses are a leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-45. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) remains the primary source of fentanyl-related substances trafficked into the United States. We are also concerned about the Department of State’s lack of candor regarding recent engagements with the PRC, especially considering that we are learning more about these engagements from public reporting than we are from the Administration directly. Despite appearing before the House Foreign Affairs Committee and China Select Committee, Assistant Secretary (A/S) Kritenbrink refused to answer questions forthrightly about competitive actions State is or is not taking against the PRC and core issues in our foreign policy towards the PRC, such as American citizens detained in the PRC or issues related to Taiwan. Instead, A/S Kritenbrink, and other Biden Administration officials have emphasized the importance of engagement and future meetings—which are predominately occurring in the PRC—with CCP officials as success itself. As we expected, we have not seen any concrete or tangible deliverables from meetings with the CCP. Key elements of our ability to conduct risk management, such as military-to-military communications have decreased recently and we still have no deliverables on the fentanyl crisis, which has worsened under this Administration. We are therefore concerned that the Biden Administration continues unproductive meetings with the PRC while not producing any results. This unrestrained willingness to engage does not move our objectives forward and plays into CCP efforts. We must be careful not to compromise on our values of basic human rights in exchange for empty promises, which would be a negation of President Biden’s very own statement that “human rights will be the center of our foreign policy.” Given that most of the precursors from fentanyl originate in the PRC, the PRC has an obligation to cooperate with the United States on counternarcotics work without preconditions. Furthermore, the PRC is bound by international law to cooperate with the international community to stop the flow of outbound fentanyl precursors to North America. In March of 2022, the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs, at the recommendation of the United States, voted to control three precursors used by traffickers to produce fentanyl. Given how many of our constituents have died from fentanyl overdoses, we expect the Administration to regularly engage our offices on efforts it is taking to hold the PRC accountable to these obligations. We do not support lifting export controls or sanctions as a condition for cooperation with the PRC, and we are considering legislation to ensure the Administration cannot circumvent Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-urges-biden-admin-increase-domestic-critical-mineral,"Newhouse Urges Biden Admin to Increase Domestic Critical Mineral Production, Address Reliance on Foreign Adversaries",2023-07-27,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Last week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Reps. Williams (R-NY), Bergman (R-MI), Hinson (R-IA), LaMalfa (R-CA), Lawler (R-NY), Luetkemeyer (R-MO), Carter (R-GA), and Moran (R-TX) sent a letter to the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Energy, and the Secretary of Interior calling for increased domestic critical mineral production amid the ongoing global shortage of semiconductors, reliance on foreign adversaries such as the Chinese Communist Party, and the recent ban against Micron by Chinese cyberspace regulators. “The Chinese Communist Party is a threat to American democracy, and we must respond with tough policies that will protect our domestic supply chains—especially for the critical minerals that play an indispensable role in our economy and the semiconductor industry,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Communities in Central Washington and across the nation thrive when our resources are sourced right here at home, and the Biden Administration must act now to empower domestic production and enhance our global competitiveness.” Click here to read the full letter. Background: The semiconductor industry plays an indispensable role in our nation's economy, powering a wide range of essential sectors. However, the ongoing global shortage of semiconductors, the United States’ reliance on the importation of materials from adversarial countries, and the recent ban against Micron by Chinese cyberspace regulators, only further demonstrate the need to maintain U.S. competitiveness in semiconductor production by reinforcing our domestic critical mineral supply chain. Critical minerals, such as gallium, germanium, and tantalum, are essential to producing chips and are plentiful domestically. Gallium has deposits situated in the United States with over 46,000 metric tons of materials—yet more than 53% of the gallium our country uses is imported from China. In 2022 alone, gallium metal imports from China increased by an estimated 34% according to the United States Geological Survey’s Mineral Commodity Summaries of 2023. This letter urges the Biden Administration to address our reliance on foreign critical minerals and empower domestic production—laying out steps to secure American semiconductor manufacturing, an industry essential to our position as a global leader. These include working to identify domestic critical mineral deposits and fully implementing the CHIPS and Science Act.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-leads-legislation-secure-american-elections,Newhouse Leads Legislation to Secure American Elections,2023-07-19,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Last week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) helped introduce the American Confidence in Elections (ACE) Act alongside House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and House Administration Chair Bryan Steil (R-WI). The bill equips states with election integrity tools and protects political speech. “Our democracy relies on safe and fair elections, and we must take every step necessary to restore voter confidence and participation,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The American Confidence in Elections Act is the most conservative, transformative election integrity bill in the House in over 20 years, and I am proud to support it. Providing our states with the tools to improve voter confidence will help restore government by the people, for the people.” Read the full text of the bill here. Background: The American Confidence in Elections (ACE) Act is a federalist approach to boost voter confidence and encourage states to implement common-sense election integrity reforms by removing federal policies that stand in their way. Some of the most important provisions include: Giving state and county election officials access to the Social Security death list so they can keep their voter rolls maintained. Making it easier for states to use REAL ID to confirm citizenship. Prohibiting federal funds from going to places that allow non-citizens to vote and stops non-citizens from voting in D.C. Supporting military voters overseas and ensures their ballots are counted in time. Protecting free speech and donor privacy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-stops-biden-administrations-land-grab,Newhouse Stops the Biden Administration’s Land Grab,2023-07-19,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse’s (R-WA) amendment to prohibit funds from being used to finalize the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) proposed “Landscape and Conservation Health” rule was adopted in the Interior and Environment Appropriations. The BLM’s rule undermines FLPMA’s multiple-use mandate for BLM lands and would hinder access to public lands for energy and critical mineral development, grazing, forest management, and recreation. With more than 90% of BLM’s 245 million acres located in the West, the rule would have an outsized effect on the residents of Central Washington. The amendment was adopted by voice vote. Rep. Newhouse’s remarks as prepared below: “I rise today to offer an amendment prohibiting funds from being used to finalize the Bureau of Land Management’s proposed ‘Landscape and Conservation Health’ rule, the latest example of this Administration’s regulatory overreach. “Earlier this year, the BLM proposed a rule to elevate conservation under the multiple-use mandate. The multiple-use mandate, as established by Congress, allows federal lands to be used for resource development, grazing, timber harvesting, and recreation. “Not only is this proposed rule illegal, it would also have drastic effects on energy prices, food costs, and recreational opportunities. “As Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, I believe in the multiple-use mandate to produce sustainable yield—not lock up our lands from accessing the bountiful resources and beautiful views our public lands offer. “In the midst of record-high energy prices and food costs, this Administration wants to exacerbate the problem by proposing a regulation that would reduce resource development—including renewable energy—and ranching on public lands. “The BLM is confusing conservation for preservation by sidestepping Congress. They do not have the authority for this proposed rule and I urge all of my colleagues to support my amendment. I yield back.” Read the full text of the amendment here. Background: In April, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) proposed a rule titled “Landscape and Conversation Health” which elevates conservation under the multiple-use mandate to be equal to resource development, grazing, timber harvesting, and recreation on public lands. This is contrary to Congressional intent under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) of 1976 which statutorily set multiple-use sustainable yield on BLM land. The public comment period closed on July 5 after a 15-day extension. The finalization of this rule would allow conservation easements to reduce resource development, grazing, timber harvesting, and recreation on public lands in a backdoor way to implement the Biden Administration’s 30x30 initiative. Supporting Organizations: Public Lands Council, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Mining Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Western Energy Alliance, Independent Petroleum Association of America, U.S. Chamber of Commerce",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-launches-endangered-species-act-working-group,Newhouse Launches Endangered Species Act Working Group,2023-07-18,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), the Congressional Western Caucus, and the House Committee on Natural Resources launched an Endangered Species Act Working Group. The Working Group will seek to examine how the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is being implemented by federal agencies, the practical impacts on the American people, how litigation is driving ESA decision-making, and how success is defined under the ESA. The goal of the Working Group will be to publish a series of policy recommendations that reform the ESA to the benefit of the American people and species conservation. “Only in the federal government would five percent be deemed a passing grade, but that is exactly how ‘successful’ the Endangered Species Act has been at recovering species,” said Rep. Newhouse. “It is clear the ESA is in desperate need of reform, not only for the sake of our species, but for the men and women of Central Washington who are negatively impacted by its land use restrictions, impact on property values, and costly permitting requirements. I am proud to launch this working group with House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman to work towards providing tangible, actionable solutions to the ESA for the betterment of the American people and species recovery.” “The Endangered Species Act is a well-intentioned but entirely outdated piece of legislation which must be brought into the 21st Century. With hundreds of species being listed under the Endangered Species list but with a dismal 3% having been delisted, clearly something is not working. It’s time to take action,” said House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR). “Today, we’re formally launching the Endangered Species Working Group with members from the House Committee on Natural Resources and the Western Caucus to take the first significant action on this legislation since the 1980s. This year is the 50th anniversary of the ESA, and since its creation it has been twisted and morphed by radical litigants into a political firefight rather than an important piece of conservation law. I’d like to thank Congressman Newhouse and the other members of this working group for taking these initial steps to modernize this archaic law.” Members of the Working Group include Reps. Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Mark Amodei (R-NV), Cliff Bentz (R-OR), Paul Gosar (R-AZ), Harriet Hageman (R-WY), John Duarte (CA-13), Judge Carter (R-TX), Jerry Carl (R-AL), and Lauren Boebert (R-CO). Background: Since Congress enacted the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 1973, approximately 1,700 species have been listed as threatened or endangered, not counting experimental populations. Only three percent of these species have been considered recovered and delisted. In addition, the Biden Administration has taken steps to undo the critical work done by the Trump Administration to reform the ESA. This has left stakeholders and members of Congress frustrated and substantially increased the appetite to find targeted and sustainable reforms to the ESA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announces-launch-2023-central-washington-congressional-app,Newhouse Announces Launch of 2023 Central Washington Congressional App Challenge,2023-07-14,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced the launch of the annual Central Washington Congressional App Challenge, which is open to all middle and high school students who reside in or attend a school in Washington’s 4th Congressional District. Students may participate individually or in a team of students up to four. “The Congressional App Challenge is a wonderful opportunity for all students of Central Washington to represent our region and demonstrate their ingenuity and creativity,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I strongly encourage any student with a STEM background or who is interested in STEM to create an app and show your skills to the country!” The Congressional App Challenge is now open and will run through November 1, 2023. Applicants are welcome to submit their application anytime during this period. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges and given congressional recognition for their outstanding achievements in STEM and computer science. The winning apps will be featured in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., on house.gov, and on the Congressional App Challenge Website. Winning students will be invited to the #HouseofCode reception on Capitol Hill and will be awarded additional prizes, to be announced later. For more information about the Congressional App Challenge and submission criteria, click here. Background: The Congressional App Challenge (CAC) was established in 2013 and officially launched by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015 because Congress recognized that STEM and computer-based skills are essential for economic growth and innovation, and that the U.S. has been falling behind on these fronts. To maintain American competitiveness, it is crucial that the U.S. invests in our youth now and helps them acquire these valuable skills. The CAC encourages students to pursue those skills and recognizes them for their efforts. Last year’s winner, Advaitha Motkuri of Richland High School designed the winning app “People’s Pupil: A Detection in Intoxication.” Her app has the ability to detect whether someone is intoxicated by scanning their pupils and she hopes to introduce it to consumers in the coming years. Click here to see her winning app presentation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-select-committee-ccp-introduce-legislation-protect-us-farmland,"Newhouse, Select Committee on the CCP Introduce Legislation to Protect U.S. Farmland from Foreign Adversaries",2023-07-12,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and members of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) introduced legislation to prevent foreign adversaries from exploiting U.S. land near national security sites by giving the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) jurisdiction over any potential land purchases by foreign adversaries. “Safeguarding our food supply chains and national security from foreign adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party will always be a top priority of mine,” said Rep. Newhouse. “We must ensure our government agencies have the necessary resources to stop bad actors from gaining a foothold in our homeland. I am proud to introduce this legislation as a continuation of my efforts to stop the CCP and all foreign adversaries from putting our food supply and national security at risk.” ""The United States cannot allow foreign adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party and its proxies to acquire real estate near sensitive sites like military bases or telecom infrastructure, potentially exploiting our critical technology and endangering our servicemembers. This bill gives CFIUS jurisdiction over foreign adversary real estate transactions to guard against the threat of the CCP and other adversaries purchasing land for malign purposes, and it also encourages CFIUS to consider food security issues as it evaluates the national security risk of a given transaction,"" said Chairman Mike Gallagher. Read the full text of the bill here. Background: The bill would: Give CFIUS jurisdiction over all land purchases (with exceptions for real estate in urban areas and single housing units) by foreign adversary entities. Authorize CFIUS to consider U.S. food security, including via biotechnology acquisition, as a factor in its national security reviews and require the Secretary of Agriculture have a vote in CFIUS reviews of transactions that involve farmland or agriculture technology. Establish a negative presumption (“presumption of non-resolvability”) for CFIUS reviews that raises the approval threshold for CFIUS transactions by a foreign adversary entity purchasing land near sensitive sites (e.g., major military sites, acknowledged intelligence facilities, etc.). Mandate CFIUS filing for foreign adversary entities making land purchases near sensitive sites. This will ensure CFIUS remains apprised of ongoing real estate purchases by foreign adversary entities. Expand the list of sensitive national security sites designated for CFIUS jurisdiction. Rep. Newhouse has been a leader in protecting American farmland from the Chinese Communist Party and foreign adversaries: On February 2, 2023, Rep. Newhouse led his House colleagues in the re-introduction of the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act. This legislation would prohibit the purchase of public or private agricultural land in the United States by foreign nationals associated with the Government of the People’s Republic of China. In January, Rep. Newhouse co-sponsored the Promoting Agriculture Safeguards and Security Act of 2023 (PASS Act), which protects our national security by preventing foreign adversaries from taking any ownership or control of the United States’ agricultural land and agricultural businesses. More specifically, the PASS Act prohibits China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from purchasing U.S. agricultural land and agricultural companies. Earlier this year, Rep. Newhouse sent a letter to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack demanding action from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regarding their failure to conduct oversight of foreign acquisition of U.S. agricultural land. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-support-tribal-law-enforcement-0,"Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Support Tribal Law Enforcement, Protect Native Communities",2023-07-06,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), and Sharice Davids (D-KS) introduced the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act to improve hiring and increase retention for tribal law enforcement officers in order to better protect native communities and help address the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls (MMIW). “Native tribes in Central Washington and across the nation are encountering significant barriers in recruiting and retaining law enforcement officers for their reservation lands,” said Rep. Newhouse. “While their communities are combatting the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and high crime rates, they need to be well-equipped to protect families and local businesses. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will empower our law enforcement officers with the necessary resources to ensure the safety of both tribal and non-tribal communities.” “It’s important for the federal government to respect tribal sovereignty and strengthen public safety,” said Rep. Kilmer. “I’m proud to help introduce the bipartisan Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act with Representatives Newhouse and Davids so that we can take steps to improve the prevention, investigation, and prosecution of crimes in Indian Country – and ensure that Tribes across the region can recruit and retain the law enforcement officers they need to serve their communities.” “Improving the recruitment and retention of tribal law enforcement officers is vital to increasing public safety in tribal communities,” said Rep. Davids. “I am proud to join my colleagues in leading this important legislation, which removes administrative barriers and gives tribal law enforcement officers increased access to the same federal benefits, including retirement benefits, as other federal law enforcement officers.” Read the full text of the bill here. “The Colville Tribes strongly supports the ‘Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act.’ The bill would implement long overdue reforms and remove administrative barriers to tribal law officers enforcing federal laws on their reservation lands. It will also assist the Colville Tribes and other tribes in recruiting and retaining officers, which is critical for rural tribes that have large land bases and not enough officers to adequately patrol.” – Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation “Support for Tribal law enforcement recruitment and retention is crucial to addressing many serious systemic public safety issues, including the ongoing crisis of disproportionate violence against Native people and drug-related crime across Indian Country. The issue is particularly pressing for Yakama and other tribes with large-land bases and a severe lack of resources to adequately patrol such a vast area. The federal government must continue to work with Tribes like the Yakama Nation to ensure that we have the tools and funding necessary that give us the law enforcement resources and authorities needed to protect the communities and people who live, work, and raise their families on our lands. The Yakama Nation appreciates Congressman Newhouse's continued work to address long-standing impediments to Tribal sovereignty and our public safety efforts.” – Gerald Lewis, Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council “The Chehalis Tribe strongly supports the bill. Our Tribe is fortunate in that we are able to pay our law enforcement officers competitive salaries but competitive retirement benefits are currently out of reach for Chehalis and most other tribes around the country. If enacted, this will allow Chehalis and other tribes to take care of the officers that patrol and keep our communities safe.” – Dustin Klatush, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation “As in the other regions of the country, law enforcement and public safety is critically important to tribal communities in the Pacific Northwest. The Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians supports legislation like the ‘Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act’ that enhances the ability of Indian tribes to recruit and retain law enforcement officers and better protect their tribal communities.” – Leonard Forsman, President, Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians “The Quinault Indian Nation strongly supports the “Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act.” This bill will help address barriers in recruiting Officers and takes steps to improve law enforcement on the reservation. Pensions and benefits for Tribal Law Enforcement have long been a negative factor in recruiting and retention placing a major burden on Officers' families. This act will go a long way in providing stability to Officers and positive action Quinault Law Enforcement can take in recruiting and retaining prospective candidates. Law Enforcement is critically important to the safety and security of the Quinault Nation and Tribal Law needs this tool to enhance care for our Officers and their families as they work to keep our Nation safe.” – Guy L. Capoeman, President, Quinault Indian Nation “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act is critical in rectifying decades-long lapses in Tribal law enforcement. The lack of equal benefits and protections that are afforded to their state and federal peers directly affects not only the safety and well-being of tribal officers and their families, but also the communities they serve.” – Rick Peterson, Vice-Chairman, Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa “The Choctaw Nation Tribal Police Department is in support of this bill. Tribal law enforcement officers are often subjected to the same physical and emotional rigors as other officers in different jurisdictions, yet they are not rewarded for their efforts with adequate retirement benefits. Unfortunately, this is no different within the Choctaw Nation. This legislation would enable us to recruit and retain more quality officers, which would, in turn, allow us to protect and serve the communities within the Choctaw Nation Reservation more effectively.” – Jesse Petty, Chief of Police, Choctaw Nation “The Stockbridge-Munsee Community strongly supports the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act. This legislation will help end the cycle of having new officers leave once they complete training since the Tribe is unable to compete with the pension benefits available to officers in the state law enforcement system which has come at a great cost to the Stockbridge Munsee Community. We applaud the legislation that will greatly benefit tribal communities by helping to stabilize tribal law enforcement through the retention of trained officers instead of continually training new officers and make our tribal communities safer.” – Shannon Holsey, President, Stockbridge-Munsee Indian Community ""Congressman Newhouse's amendments are a vital step in dismantling jurisdictional barriers contributing to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People (MMIWP) crisis. The passage of this bill will address data discrepancies contributing to public safety concerns in Native communities by holding the Attorney General accountable for coordinated approaches for all Department of Justice activities. This will result in more comprehensive data collection practices of public safety data regarding American Indian and Alaska Native people.” – Esther Lucero, President & CEO, Seattle Indian Health Board The following Members are primary co-sponsors of the legislation: Reps. Cole (R-OK), Craig (R-MN), Glusenkamp Perez (D-WA), Kildee (D-MI), McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Schrier (D-WA), Simpson (R-ID), Strickland (D-WA), and Vasquez (D-NM). “Communities across the nation rely on law enforcement to ensure safety and security, especially in Indian country. It is important the federal government upholds its trust responsibility and strengthen public safety. I am proud to join as an original cosponsor on this piece of legislation to ensure tribes have the tools to recruit and retain the brave men and women in law enforcement,” said Rep. Cole, Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and member of the Chickasaw Nation. “Tribal governments across Minnesota, and the United States, deserve access to all the support and resources needed to ensure the safety of their communities. I’m working with Rep. Newhouse to pass this bipartisan bill to improve hiring and retention for tribal law enforcement officers and provide tribal communities with the tools needed to keep their communities safe,"" said Rep. Craig. “Every community depends on law enforcement to fight crime and ensure public safety, including Tribal nations. But right now, Tribal law enforcement officers don't receive the same resources, training, and benefits other federal law enforcement do. I'm proud to work with Republicans and Democrats on this legislation to end this disparity, recruit more Tribal law enforcement officers and help keep Indian Country safe,” said Rep. Kildee. “For too long, tribal communities have faced bureaucratic barriers that have made it difficult to recruit and retain law enforcement officers and hindered their public safety. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act enacts much-needed reforms to allow tribal officers to enforce federal law and receive benefits available to other federal law enforcement officers. This legislation will help improve safety in tribal communities, and I am proud to join Representative Newhouse in supporting it,” said Rep. Schrier. “Support for tribal law enforcement is crucial to protect native communities and strengthen public safety. It’s well past time we make these necessary changes to support local tribes and law enforcement with the resources they need to serve their community,” said Rep. Simpson. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will: Authorize tribal officers acting under a 638 contract or compact to be considered federal law enforcement officers and enforce federal law, provided they meet certain qualifications, including having completed certain training and background investigation requirements that are comparable to BIA law enforcement officers. This action would eliminate the need for Indian tribes to enter into Special Law Enforcement Commission (SLEC) agreements, which are currently required under existing for tribal officers to enforce federal law and have proven administratively burdensome for tribes to obtain. Treat tribal law enforcement officers acting under a 638 contract or compact as federal law enforcement officers for purposes of other federal laws, including for benefits applicable to federal law enforcement officers for injury and death, retirement, and pension benefits. Tribal law enforcement officers are currently not eligible for these federal benefit programs and including tribal officers will enhance tribes’ ability to recruit and retain officers, especially in rural areas. Provide for the Secretary of the Interior to implement procedures for credentialing tribal officers and for the Attorney General to coordinate training and reporting activities. Background: On May 5, 2023, Rep. Newhouse introduced a resolution to designate May 5, 2023 as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. In March, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act, a bipartisan bill that strengthens tribal law enforcement and increases public safety in Indian Country. In October 2020, President Trump signed two historic pieces of legislation – Savanna’s Act and the Not Invisible Act – into law. Rep. Newhouse introduced Savanna’s Act and strongly supported the Not Invisible Act to address the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women (MMIW).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-reintroduces-farm-workforce-modernization-act,Newhouse Reintroduces Farm Workforce Modernization Act,2023-07-03,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) reintroduced H.R. 4319, the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, alongside Reps. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), David Valadao (R-CA), John Duarte (R-CA), Mike Simpson (R-ID), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), and Jerrold Nadler (D-NY). The legislation, which passed the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support in the 116th and 117th Congresses, makes meaningful reforms to the H-2A agricultural guestworker program and creates a first-of-its-kind, merit-based visa program specifically designed for the nation's agricultural sector. “The top concern for farmers and ranchers in Central Washington and across the nation is labor, and the problem is only getting worse. As a third-generation farmer, I know first-hand how challenging it is for the agriculture industry to hire and retain labor so we can continue to feed America and the world,” said Rep. Dan Newhouse. “The Farm Workforce Modernization Act is the solution to creating a secure, reliable agriculture labor program to provide certainty to our farmers and ranchers for a stable and legal workforce for years to come.” “In the past few years, we’ve seen labor shortages contribute to high food prices. If it wasn’t obvious before, the pandemic made clear that our country’s agricultural workforce rules are in dire need of reform,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “The men and women who work America’s farms feed the nation. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act stabilizes the workforce, which will protect the future of our farms and our food supply. It’s well-past time we get this legislation that serves the best interests of our country to the President’s desk.” Click here for a one-pager. Click here for bill text. “IFPA members representing the entirety of the fresh produce and floral supply chains are desperate for reforms that will ensure that we have access to an affordable and reliable workforce. We applaud the authors of the Farm Workforce Modernization Act for once again stepping forward with a bipartisan solution that meets our most pressing labor needs including addressing the burdensome and expensive H-2A program. IFPA stands ready to work with Congressman Newhouse and his colleagues to pass the meaningful reforms we need to continue producing fruit, vegetable, and floral products here in America,” said Robert Guenther, Chief Public Policy Officer, International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA). “We thank Representatives Lofgren and Newhouse for reintroducing their bipartisan Farm Workforce Modernization Act. Ag workforce reform has been a top priority for America's dairy farmers and farmworkers for decades, and NMPF has been working for reform measures that better serve dairy. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act takes a significant step toward the improvements we need, and we applaud Reps. Lofgren, Newhouse, and the bill's other cosponsors for their continued leadership on this difficult issue. NMPF looks forward to continuing to work with these leaders and strengthen the legislation as it advances,” said Jim Mulhern, President and CEO, National Milk Producers Federation. “The reality is, access to a stable and reliable workforce is the only way we can continue as an industry. We commend Representative Newhouse for his tireless efforts to reform our broken agriculture labor system,” said Jim Bair, President and CEO, U.S. Apple Association. “Systems that establish a secure, reliable workforce for American farmers and ranchers are necessary to our food supply. A flexible, efficient and streamlined visa program is a vital part of that, as an estimated half of the U.S. agricultural workforce is foreign-born. NASDA is proud to once again support the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, a bipartisan, comprehensive solution to securing our nation’s food supply by building a stable and reliable workforce. We thank Representatives Newhouse and Lofgren for introducing this legislation and addressing a critical issue for American agriculture,” said Ted McKinney, CEO, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA). “We thank Representatives Zoe Lofgren, Dan Newhouse and their colleagues for reintroducing the Farm Workforce Modernization Act this Congress – a bill that passed the House twice in recent years. Many of us have spent tireless hours negotiating this bipartisan legislation and we commend this reintroduction and look forward to continuing to work toward a viable solution for agriculture,” said Dave Puglia, President and CEO, Western Growers. “This country is in a crisis - if we want Americans to be able to eat affordable, safe food and to be able to feed ourselves independently as a nation, rather than rely on imports, we need the House to pass this newly re-introduced bipartisan Farm Workforce Modernization Act and we need to Senate to do its part this time. By making sure we have a legal and reliable workforce for the agriculture industry, it will provide ag producers, their employees, and all American consumers the stability we deserve,” said Rebecca Shi, Executive Director, American Business Immigration Coalition Action. ""Labor has been a challenge for many years now. I appreciate the dedication of Rep. Newhouse and his colleagues for continuing to seek out solutions. My company is not a large enough operation for H2A to work for us so we rely on agricultural workers outside of that system and they need better assurance of their future and legal status in America,"" said Shane Collins, Chair, Washington Winegrowers Association. “The UFW welcomes the reintroduction of the bipartisan Farm Workforce Modernization Act. Our view is simple: If you feed America, you have earned the right to stay in America. This bill meets that moral imperative – delivering farm workers’ most urgent priority – as well as meeting many of the needs of agricultural employers. Farm workers proved themselves essential during the pandemic and continue to put food on Americans’ tables every day. Legal status for these essential immigrant workers is long overdue and we ask all Members of Congress to work for its passage,” said Teresa Romero, President, United Farm Workers (UFW). “The current H-2A program's limitation to seasonal employment leaves many industries without the stable workforce that is vital to our food supply chain. Food security is national security, and agricultural labor shortages threaten our ability to grow food for the nation. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act is a commonsense solution that ensures our farmers have access to a legal and reliable workforce and streamlines the process for the future flow of workers,” said Rep. David Valadao. “America relies on the hardworking men and women who help put food on our table. Our farm workers protect our food security and provide working families with high-quality, affordable food. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act helps the Central Valley by protecting our workforce, ensuring the future of our farms, and streamlining our visa process. I am proud to join both Democrats and Republicans alike in helping reintroduce this crucial piece of legislation,” said Rep. John Duarte. “There is perhaps no more important facet of immigration reform for Idaho and its economy than providing a stable and secure workforce for American agriculture. For anyone who doubts the importance of this issue, speak with the farmers and ranchers who feed and clothe our nation – labor is often their number one concern. It is time for Congress to address this critical issue, and I am proud to join with my colleagues once again in introducing the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, which will do just that,” said Rep. Mike Simpson. “Providing a path to legal residency for the men and women who work to put food on our dinner tables is long overdue. California's farming communities have dealt with worker shortages for years, a problem that got worse during the COVID-19 pandemic. These workers feed Americans and deserve a path to legal residency,” said Rep. Jim Costa. “Farmers and farmworkers continue to face uncertainty due to our country’s broken and bureaucratic immigration system. By providing an earned path to legal status for those willing to continue working in agriculture as well as a streamlined H-2A visa process, we’ll strengthen our community and promote the enduring farm workforce we need to ensure our nation’s food security. I’m proud to once again stand with a bipartisan coalition to introduce a commonsense path forward with the Farm Workforce Modernization Act,” said Rep. Jimmy Panetta. “Working alongside my father in the fields, I witnessed firsthand the struggles and sacrifices that our agricultural labor force endures. The Central Coast's number one industry is agriculture, but our broken immigration system has made it difficult for producers and harvesters alike to find stability. I have spoken with growers about the devastating labor shortages caused by seasonal labor restrictions and complex program applications. By providing earned legal status for existing farmworkers and modernizing the guest worker program, this groundbreaking, bipartisan bill is a major step in reforming our imsmigration system and providing long term industry sustainability,” said Rep. Salud Carbajal. “South Texas agriculture needs a quality, reliable workforce. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act will make long overdue changes to the H-2A program to better serve our farmers and farmworkers. I applaud my colleagues, Reps. Lofgren (D-CA-18) and Newhouse (R-WA-4), for working with me to deliver this important, bipartisan bill,” said Rep. Henry Cuellar. “The Farm Workforce Modernization Act is vital legislation that provides much-needed security to farmworkers and their employers, ensuring a stable workforce under fair and safe conditions. As Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee last Congress, I was proud to shepherd the bill to passage in the House with then-Immigration Subcommittee Chair Lofgren. Now, I urge the Majority to bring this bill to the floor once again to finally provide a seat at America's table for those who have long grown the food we serve on it,” said Rep. Jerrold Nadler. Background: Farmers and ranchers across Central Washington and the United States are in desperate need of a high-quality, reliable workforce, farmworkers need a stable future, and the current H-2A guestworker program needs meaningful, bipartisan reform. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act was negotiated over eight months in 2019 with input from farmers, agricultural stakeholders, labor organizations, and farmworker advocates. In December 2019, it became the first agriculture labor reform legislation to pass the House of Representatives since 1986. Since its passage, a bipartisan coalition of Members has continually been working to move the bill through the legislative process. This legislation: Reforms the H-2A program to provide more flexibility for employers, while ensuring critical protections for workers. Establishes a program for agricultural workers in the United States to choose to earn legal status through continued agricultural employment and contribution to the U.S. agricultural economy. Focuses on modifications to make the program more responsive and user-friendly for employers and provides access to the program for industries with year-round labor needs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-help-central-washington-police-0,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Help Central Washington Police Officers Address Fentanyl Crisis,2023-06-30,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Law Enforcement Officers Preventing Overdose Deaths Act alongside Reps. Pettersen (D-CO), Carter (R-GA), Pappas (D-NH), Neguse (D-CO), Budzinski (D-IL), and Craig (D-MN). This legislation authorizes rural community response pilot grant programs to allow state and local law enforcement agencies to purchase naloxone, an effective tool to prevent and reduce opioid overdose deaths and directs at least 50% of the programs’ grant funding to rural communities. “Illicit fentanyl is plaguing our communities, and our law enforcement officers are on the frontlines fighting this crisis,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Just this week, I met with my Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force, and the top issue for our officers is that they do not have enough resources to handle the exponential increase of overdoses. Members of the law enforcement profession are well-trained and prepared to help those in need, and having the ability to administer naloxone during critical incidents has and will continue to save lives of citizens across Central Washington and the nation.” “The recent fentanyl crisis affecting America is having an unexpected consequence: budget impacts as small law enforcement agencies struggle to purchase Narcan, the life-saving antidote to fentanyl. Narcan is being used in ever-increasing amounts by first responders as they cope with the meteoric rise in opioid overdoses. It is critical those agencies have access to affordable Narcan,"" said Yakima County Sheriff Robert Udell. “With the unprecedented rise in opioid overdoses, law enforcement encounters with individuals experiencing an overdose have become alarmingly frequent. By equipping law enforcement personnel with naloxone, we empower them to save lives, promote community safety, and contribute to the broader efforts in combating the devastating impact of substance use disorder,” said Kennewick Police Chief Chris Guerrero. “With the opioid crisis affecting every community in our nation, naloxone has become an essential tool in combating the overwhelming number of overdose incidents that first responders are called to. Officers are generally first on scene of an overdose incident, and the ability to administer naloxone to people in crisis has saves thousands of lives. Many rural law enforcement agencies have budgetary struggles and funding naloxone can be expensive. Federal funding of naloxone will save the lives of citizens in rural communities who are dealing with the opioid epidemic,” said City of Moses Lake Police Chief Kevin J. Fuhr. “Without overdose-reversing drugs like naloxone, my mom wouldn’t be alive today. As the global opioid crisis intensifies, fueled by the rise of synthetic illicit substances such as fentanyl, it is crucial that we equip our communities and law enforcement with the tools they need to save lives. This bipartisan bill is a commonsense way to ensure officers, especially those in rural areas, have increased access to medications like naloxone to effectively intervene and save someone who is overdosing. Like so many Coloradans, I am all too familiar with the fear that comes with a loved one who is at risk of overdosing. This bill will save lives and give people a chance at recovery,” said Rep. Pettersen. “New Hampshire’s rural communities have been hit hard by the ongoing opioid epidemic, and expanding access to naloxone is a common-sense way to save lives in areas where medical care may take longer to access. Allowing local law enforcement to use grant funds to purchase and carry naloxone will save people from overdoses and ensure rural departments can access this critical resource. I’ll continue working to support the law enforcement officers, first responders, health care workers, and recovery workers who are on the frontlines of this fight as we seek to put an end to this crisis,” said Rep. Pappas. ""We must take urgent action to prevent drug-related deaths and combat the fentanyl crisis. By ensuring that local law enforcement have access to naloxone, we will save lives and build safer communities,” said Rep. Neguse. “As we continue to face an illicit fentanyl, opioid and overdose crisis, it’s essential that our first responders are properly equipped to save lives. I’m proud to help introduce commonsense legislation that would provide rural law enforcement officers with the lifesaving naloxone they need to respond to this epidemic. This is a simple step we can take to prevent the loss of our family members, friends and neighbors in our community,” said Rep. Budzinski. “Naloxone can save lives – and we need to do everything we can to get this medicine into the hands of all those who need it. I’m partnering up with Rep. Newhouse on a bipartisan effort to ensure law enforcement officers in rural areas can access and use naloxone and the overdose prevention tools needed to keep their communities safe,” said Rep. Craig. Click here for the full text of the bill. Background: This legislation is a re-introduction from the last Congress, H.R.6593. Specifically, this bill: Makes grants available to local law enforcement agencies. Increases naloxone access for rural law enforcement officers. Helps address the substance abuse, opioid, and fentanyl crisis. Does not increase appropriations and does not require an offset. Naloxone is beneficial to law enforcement through the following: Naloxone, (frequently referred to by the brand name, “Narcan”) is an FDA approved drug that reverses the effects of opioids, including fentanyl, by blocking their uptake in the bloodstream. If administered quickly, either by injection or nasal spray, it can prevent someone who has overdosed from dying. State and local law enforcement are often the first ones on the scene in the event of an overdose. If equipped with Naloxone and prepared to deploy it effectively, they can prevent and reduce the number of opioid overdose deaths. Lack of availability and high costs of the necessary personnel, training, and the drug itself are prohibitive to law enforcement agencies – whose budgets are already and increasingly constrained - seeking to develop effective Naloxone deployment programs. Initiating a pilot grant program will allow local police departments agencies to access this highly effective tool and develop best practices for successful deployment efforts. Rep. Newhouse has been leading the effort to combat the fentanyl crisis in Central Washington and in U.S. Congress: Last month, Rep. Newhouse launched the Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force, a working group of consisting of groups and individuals on the local and state levels who are on the frontlines fighting the fentanyl crisis throughout Central Washington. Task Force members include law enforcement, addiction treatment groups, medical professionals, drug court officials, school resource officers, tribal leaders, elected officials, and community leaders. This week, the task force held its first quarterly meeting. In March, Rep. Newhouse introduced the William and James Wonacott Act, named after two Yakima brothers who succumbed to fentanyl in separate instances. The legislation enhances penalties for those who sell, give, or distribute any substance that contains two milligrams or more of illicit fentanyl or fentanyl-related substances to another person without their knowledge. Earlier this year, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act or SAFE Act to permanently schedule all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-house-committee-natural-resources-exposes-truth-about,"Newhouse, House Committee on Natural Resources Exposes Truth About the Importance of the Lower Snake River Dams",2023-06-28,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"RICHLAND, WA – This week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and the House Committee on Natural Resources hosted a field hearing to discuss the importance the four Lower Snake River Dams have to Central Washington and the Pacific Northwest. Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Chairman Cliff Bentz (R-OR), House Committee on Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), and U.S. Rep. Mike Collins (R-GA) participated in the hearing. Watch Rep. Newhouse’s questioning HERE. “The four Lower Snake River Dams are the lifeblood of Central Washington and the Pacific Northwest, and it has been an honor to welcome my Congressional colleagues who recognize the benefits these dams bestow upon our region,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The facts presented by our expert witnesses today made it overwhelmingly clear that salmon and dams do coexist, and breaching the dams would be devastating to my communities in Central Washington and across the Pacific Northwest. This visit serves as a key reminder that we must not be swayed by the emotional pleas of the ill-informed, but rather embrace the truth, grounded in science in sound policy.” “I am pleased to have had the opportunity to hold this important field hearing today. The benefits the four lower Snake River dams provide to river communities, electric power cooperatives, the economy, and the environment cannot be overstated. Attempts to remove them or operationally decommission them are misguided, and inappropriate. I greatly appreciate Representatives McMorris Rodgers, Newhouse, and Collins for their participation. I look forward to continuing my efforts on this important issue as Chairman of the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries,” said Rep. Bentz. “There have been too many back room conversations recently at the highest levels of government focused on tearing out the Lower Snake River dams. What’s worse is that those who rely on them the most — the families, businesses, and farmers in Eastern Washington — have been shut out of the discussion. We changed that with today’s field hearing where the voices of our community were heard loud and clear. Thank you to the Natural Resources Committee and my colleagues for hosting this field hearing and showing the world that we will do whatever it takes to save our dams!” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers. To learn more and watch the full hearing, click here. Background: The Ice Harbor Dam is one of several dams located on the Lower Snake River. These dams have the capacity to supply energy during periods of high demand, such as severe heat or a winter cold snap, helping to keep the Northwest power system reliable during emergencies. Ice Harbor is an intricately designed project that includes a hydroelectric powerhouse, a navigation lock, two fish ladders and a juvenile fish bypass facility. Members and staff toured Ice Harbor Dam before the field hearing and heard from some of those most directly impacted by the issues at play. These dams play a critical role in reducing emissions; between 50 and 60 million tons of cargo are barged through the river system annually. In 2019, it would have taken 150,784 semitrucks or 39,204 rail cars to move the cargo that was barged on the Snake River. The Columbia River is the top trade route for wheat, West coast wood, West coast bulk minerals and West coast auto exports. Eleven states export wheat through the river system, and the Columbia/Snake River system accounts for more than 60 percent of all wheat exports. The river system also supports a robust tourism industry in the region. In 2019, 25,000 passengers visited the region on cruise ships and contributed nearly $15 million to the local economy. The dams have the combined capacity to generate approximately 3,033 megawatts of electricity. Hydropower has the unique capability to begin generation immediately and without requiring a kickstart from an external power source. Hydropower is also the only renewable energy resource capable of providing base load power. Given the intermittent nature of resources like solar and wind, emissions-free hydropower serves as an ideal complement. Despite the continuous improvements to the lower Snake River dams, litigious activist groups continue to focus on removing these four dams. In 2016, the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) estimated replacing the dams would increase power costs by $274 million to $372 million per year. Six years later, BPA commissioned a study by the San Francisco environmental consulting firm Energy + Environmental Economics which says that the cost of replacing the output from these dams would range from $415 million to $860 million per year through 2045.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-stops-biden-administration-banning-gas-stoves,Newhouse Stops Biden Administration from Banning Gas Stoves,2023-06-23,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced an amendment to the Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill that will prohibit funds for the Department of Energy (DOE) to finalize, implement, or enforce an energy standard on gas stoves. The amendment was adopted by voice vote. Watch Rep. Newhouse’s remarks HERE or read excerpts from his remarks as prepared below: “Chairman Fleischmann and Ranking Member Kaptur, I rise today in support of my amendment to the Energy and Water Appropriations bill. “This amendment would prohibit the Department of Energy from implementing a February 2023 proposed rule which would require, for the first time ever, an energy performance standard for residential cooktops. “If this draconian rule were carried out, it would eliminate anywhere between 50-95% of today’s gas appliances. “This is unacceptable given the serious negative impacts it could have on American households, restaurants, and communities across Central Washington and rural America. “Gas appliances are at the center American households. They power our stoves, furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces. “Approximately 187 million Americans use natural gas because it is affordable, reliable, and safe. “It is time for the federal government to stop overregulating our lives and focus on creating solutions that will actually benefit the American people and our energy future. “I respectfully urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote in support of my amendment. I yield back.” Read the full text of the bill here. Background: On February 1, 2023, the Department of Energy (DOE) proposed an “energy efficiency standard” for gas cooking products. The proposed rule would require, for the first time ever, an energy performance standard for residential cooktops. Rep. Newhouse has been leading efforts to stop the DOE from banning gas stoves and other gas-powered appliances: In January, Rep. Newhouse co-sponsored H.R. 337, the GAS Act, which prohibits federal agencies from banning the use or sale of gas-burning stoves. In March, Rep. Newhouse co-sponsored H.R. 1640, the Save Our Gas Stoves Act, which places limits on energy conservation standards for kitchen ranges or ovens under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. The House is expected to vote on this legislation this week. This month, Rep. Newhouse voted for the passage of H.R. 1615, the Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act, which prohibits the Consumer Product Safety Commission from using federal funds to (1) regulate gas stoves as a banned hazardous product, or (2) issue or enforce a product safety standard that prohibits the use or sale of gas stoves or substantially increases their price. The House is expected to vote on this legislation this week. On March 20, 2023, Rep. Newhouse and 24 of his House colleagues sent a letter to DOE Secretary Jennifer Granholm expressing deep concern about the new proposed anti-gas appliance rule. This proposed rule would require, for the first time ever, an energy performance standard for residential cooktops, which would eliminate 95% of today’s gas appliances. On March 23, 2023, during a House Committee on Appropriations hearing, Rep. Newhouse asked Secretary Granholm to address constituent concerns that “96% of tested residential gas stove tops” would not be in compliance with the proposed draft rule published in February. On March 30, 2023, Rep. Newhouse voted for H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act, which included an amendment that prevents the DOE from implementing a gas stove ban. Specifically, the amendment prohibits the DOE from finalizing, implementing, administering, or enforcing the proposed energy conservation standard for cooking products.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-support-central-washington-winegrape,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Support Central Washington Winegrape Growers,2023-06-22,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the bicameral, bipartisan Farm Crop Insurance Act alongside Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) and Sens. Patty Murray (D-WA) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) to insure winegrape crops from smoke exposure. The bill requires the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) to carry out research and implement a crop insurance product that covers losses due to smoke exposure. “Washington state’s wine industry produces some of the best wine in the nation and we need to keep it that way. Right now, the industry faces billions of dollars in losses from wildfires and smoke exposure,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I am proud to co-sponsor this critical legislation that will ensure our winegrape growers and producers get the necessary funding to be resilient and continue to produce high-quality wine.” “Winegrapes are essential to economies across our country, and states like California, Oregon, and Washington have been disproportionately exposed to wildfires leading to smoke exposure impacting our winegrapes. Researching the impact that smoke has on our winegrapes and other crops is essential in advancing solutions that will protect these key economic drivers from future natural disasters. Proud to work with Rep. Newhouse and Sen. Padilla to introduce legislation that strengthens crop insurance for winegrowers and helps fully capture the risks associated with growing in these smoke- and wildfire-prone states,” said Rep. Thompson. “Washington state is the second-largest wine producing state in the country, creating thousands of jobs and fueling tourism across the state. Washington is also seeing an alarming increase in wildfires year after year, which creates a serious smoke exposure problem for winegrape growers across the West Coast. Vineyards in Washington state and all the way down to California need a crop insurance policy for smoke-exposed winegrapes, rather than being forced to rely on ad-hoc disaster assistance from year to year — and that’s what this legislation will provide. I’m proud that research at Washington State University has played a leading role in studying the impacts of smoke exposure, and this bill takes a critical and needed step to protect our state’s vital wine industry,” said Senator Murray. “As climate change intensifies and wildfires become more frequent and extreme, we need to protect winegrape growers and consumers against the damage caused by prolonged smoke exposure. Winegrape growing regions are critical to our economy, especially in California. Growers, vintners, and consumers alike have a stake in the sustainability of winegrowing communities—these bills will help growers make informed decisions about harvesting and selling their crops,” said Senator Padilla. Read the full text of the bill here. Background: Winegrapes exposed to smoke from wildfires can introduce compounds into the winemaking process that cause smoky, ash-like flavors and result in wines unfit for commercial sale. These off-aromas and flavors become more pronounced over time as wine ages. The legislation requires research and development of a crop insurance product that provides comprehensive coverage for smoke-impacted winegrape growers. The bill also helps to mitigate future financial losses in these key regions of production. Rep. Newhouse serves as Co-Chair of the Congressional Wine Caucus (CWC), which protects the interests of our vibrant wine community from grape to glass. Members of the CWC are joined not only by their deep appreciation of wine, but also their understanding of the wine community's significant economic impact. Wine is produced in all 50 states and generates jobs and revenue in both rural and urban areas. The wine community contributes an estimated $220 billion to the U.S. economy annually and creates the equivalent of more than one million full-time jobs. In Washington State, there are more than 800 wineries and over 250 wine and grape growers. The wine industry generates over $9.5 billion in total economic activity with over 14,000 acres of vineyards and 60,000 jobs created and supported by the wine industry. With 14 unique AVAs across the state, Washington's wine industry continues to grow and produce high-quality varieties that are enjoyed all over the world. In addition, Washington State University is one of the country's leading viticulture research institutions and one of only 14 universities in the United States to offer a Viticulture & Enology degree.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-defends-american-farmland-foreign-adversaries,Newhouse Defends American Farmland from Foreign Adversaries,2023-06-21,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced an amendment to the Agriculture and Rural Development Appropriations bill that will require the Secretary of Agriculture to take necessary actions to prohibit the purchase of U.S. agricultural land by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), Russia, North Korea, or Iran. His amendment was adopted by a vote of 34 to 26. Watch Rep. Newhouse’s remarks HERE or read excerpts from his remarks as prepared below: “Increased ownership of U.S. farmland by countries who are not our allies is an alarmingly growing trend that poses a risk to our national and economic security. “For example, according to the USDA, the Chinese Communist Party currently owns over 380,000 acres of farmland in the United States, which is worth about $2 billion. But even more shocking than that is the trend: the CCP has increased their purchases by a factor of 10 over the last decade. This poses an immediate threat to U.S. national security and food security. “When I talk to the many farmers and landowners in my district, they express deep concern about this encroachment of our land from foreign adversaries. They agree; we can no longer ignore the writing on the wall, and we must act to stop this threat now before it becomes too late. … “My amendment would bolster Section 765 by directing the Secretary of Agriculture to take any actions necessary to prohibit the purchase of U.S. agricultural land by nonresident aliens, foreign businesses, or any agent, trustee, or fiduciary associated with Russia, North Korea, Iran, or the Community Party of China. “This clarity is necessary because adversaries like the CCP will take every opportunity they can to threaten democracy, our republic, and our way of life, including our agricultural supply chains.” Read the full text of the bill here. Background: Rep. Newhouse’s amendment, which was introduced to the House Committee on Appropriations’ Rural Development bill and adopted by a vote of 34 to 26, requires the Secretary of Agriculture to take necessary actions to prohibit the purchase of U.S. agricultural land by non-resident aliens, foreign businesses, or any agent, trustee, or fiduciary associated with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), Russia, North Korea, or Iran. Rep. Newhouse is a member of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, which is committed to working on a bipartisan basis to build consensus on the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party and develop a plan of action to defend the American people, our economy, and our values. On February 2, 2023, Rep. Newhouse led his House colleagues in the re-introduction of the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act. This legislation would prohibit the purchase of public or private agricultural land in the United States by foreign nationals associated with the Government of the People’s Republic of China. In January, Rep. Newhouse co-sponsored the Promoting Agriculture Safeguards and Security Act of 2023 (PASS Act), which protects our national security by preventing foreign adversaries from taking any ownership or control of the United States’ agricultural land and agricultural businesses. More specifically, the PASS Act prohibits China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from purchasing U.S. agricultural land and agricultural companies. Earlier this year, Rep. Newhouse sent a letter to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack demanding action from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regarding their failure to conduct oversight of foreign acquisition of U.S. agricultural land.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-protect-gas-stoves,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Protect Gas Stoves,2023-06-05,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced legislation to prohibit the Department of Energy (DOE) from finalizing a proposed rule that would limit consumer access to gas kitchen ranges or ovens. “Gas appliances are at the center of many American households—they power our stoves, furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces. Nearly 187 million Americans use natural gas because it is affordable, reliable, and safe. The proposed rule by the Biden Administration would have detrimental effects on American households, restaurants, and communities across Central Washington and the nation,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I am proud to introduce this legislation to stop the draconian rule proposed by the Biden Administration and protect Americans’ wallets, time, jobs, and freedom. It's time for the government to stop overregulating our lives and focus on solutions that will truly benefit the American people and our energy future. And that starts with them getting their hands off our stoves.” “Natural gas has been one of the principal drivers to achieving our nation’s environmental and economic goals. From providing affordable energy to consumers to driving down emissions, the benefits this fuel has for our nation are tangible and impossible to ignore,” said Karen Harbert, President & CEO, American Gas Association (AGA). “Any push to ban natural gas would raise costs to consumers, jeopardize environmental progress and deny affordable energy to underserved populations.” “What and how a restaurant prepares its menu are the soul of its business. More than 3 in 4 restaurant kitchens use natural gas to cook. Restaurant owners should have the option to choose the cooking element that best serves their cuisine. We appreciate Congressman Newhouse’s leadership on this important topic.” – National Restaurant Association Read the full text of the bill here. Background: On February 1, 2023, the Department of Energy (DOE) proposed an “energy efficiency standard” for gas cooking products. The proposed rule would require, for the first time ever, an energy performance standard for residential cooktops. Rep. Newhouse has been leading efforts to stop the DOE from banning gas stoves and other gas-powered appliances: In March, Rep. Newhouse co-sponsored H.R. 1640, the Save Our Gas Stoves Act, which places limits on energy conservation standards for kitchen ranges or ovens under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. The House is expected to vote on this legislation this week. This month, Rep. Newhouse voted for the passage of H.R. 1615, the Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act, which prohibits the Consumer Product Safety Commission from using federal funds to (1) regulate gas stoves as a banned hazardous product, or (2) issue or enforce a product safety standard that prohibits the use or sale of gas stoves or substantially increases their price. The House is expected to vote on this legislation this week. On March 20, 2023, Rep. Newhouse and 24 of his House colleagues sent a letter to DOE Secretary Jennifer Granholm expressing deep concern about the new proposed anti-gas appliance rule. This proposed rule would require, for the first time ever, an energy performance standard for residential cooktops, which would eliminate 95% of today’s gas appliances. On March 23, 2023, during a House Committee on Appropriations hearing, Rep. Newhouse asked Secretary Granholm to address constituent concerns that “96% of tested residential gas stove tops” would not be in compliance with the proposed draft rule published in February. On March 30, 2023, Rep. Newhouse voted for H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act, which included an amendment that prevents the DOE from implementing a gas stove ban. Specifically, the amendment prohibits the DOE from finalizing, implementing, administering, or enforcing the proposed energy conservation standard for cooking products.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-congratulates-central-washington-students-us-military-1,Newhouse Congratulates Central Washington Students on U.S. Military Academy Appointments,2023-06-01,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced that five students from Central Washington had received and accepted appointments to attend U.S. service academies. The appointments followed Rep. Newhouse’s nomination for each appointee. The honor of attending a service academy comes with the obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. “I am truly inspired by the unwavering dedication displayed by these exceptional students chosen to serve at our nation's esteemed military academies. Their remarkable academic achievements, active participation in our communities, and unwavering patriotism prove them to be outstanding representatives from Central Washington,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Congratulations on your well-deserved appointments, and may your journeys as future leaders in the United States military be filled with triumph and a profound sense of pride. Central Washington is proud of you!” United States Air Force Academy Caleb Craddock of Okanogan Caleb Craddock is a senior at Okanogan High School. He is the son of James and Dana Craddock. Bradley Gorham of Kennewick Bradley Gorham is a Columbia Basin College Running Start. He is the son of Aaron and Karen Gorham. United States Military Academy at West Point Caleb Combs of Kennewick Caleb Combs is a senior at Southridge High School. He is the son of Thomas and Heather Combs. United States Merchant Marine Academy Luke Binfet of Grandview Luke Binfet is a senior at Sunnyside High School. He is the son of Troy and Rachael Binfet. United States Naval Academy Luke Roskelley of Pasco Luke Rosekelly is a senior at Riverview Baptist Christian School. He is the son of Brant and Jenny Rosekelly. Background: Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, NY. The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment. For more information or to obtain an application packet for next year’s nominations, contact Rep. Newhouse’s Yakima office at (509) 452-3243, 402 East Yakima Avenue, Suite 1000.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-requests-submissions-2023-farm-bill,Newhouse Requests Submissions for 2023 Farm Bill,2023-05-31,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced he is requesting submissions from local farmers, ranchers, and producers in the agriculture industry for the priorities they would like to see included in the 2023 Farm Bill. Rep. Newhouse will gather submissions and provide the top priorities from Washington’s 4th Congressional District to the House Committee on Agriculture. CLICK HERE FOR 2023 FARM BILL SUBMISSION FORM The deadline for submissions will be Wednesday, June 7th at 5:00 PM PST. The Farm Bill is a legislative package that is passed roughly every five years that covers agricultural programs such as crop insurance, research, conservation, rural development, and energy to provide farmers, ranchers, and producers the essential resources they need to feed America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-votes-cut-spending-restore-fiscal-sanity,"Newhouse Votes to Cut Spending, Restore Fiscal Sanity",2023-05-31,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“America has a spending addiction. Our national debt is over $31 trillion, and a child born in America today would inherit $4.5 million over their lifetime. For far too long, out-of-control inflationary spending has driven record-high inflation, forced small businesses to shut down, and is continuing to mortgage our children’s futures. The fiscal insanity must come to an end, and this legislation is a historic step in the right direction,” said Rep. Newhouse. Rep. Newhouse continued: “Today, I voted Yes on this legislation because it would lead to the largest spending cut in American history, reducing our deficit by $2.1 trillion. This bill has the potential to put our fiscal house in order, create a smaller government, fight inflation, lower taxes for hardworking Americans, and shift our country back to common sense and conservatism—all while protecting our seniors, veterans, and national security. From cutting spending and taxes, to ensuring full funding for critical veterans’ programs, and enacting work requirements for able-bodied adults—this is a strong bill that can make Congress work again for the people of Central Washington. I remain committed to reducing our national debt, curbing inflation, securing our southern border, and fighting for freedom.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-expand-consumer-choice-increase-market,"Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Expand Consumer Choice, Increase Market Access for Local Breweries & Wineries",2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the USPS Shipping Equity Act alongside Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) and 8 original House co-sponsors. This legislation would end the Prohibition-era ban that prevents the United States Postal Service (USPS) from shipping alcoholic beverages to consumers and allow them to ship directly from licensed producers and retailers to consumers over the age of 21, in accordance with state and local laws at the delivery location. This bill is critical in leveling the playing field and increasing consumer and manufacturer choice while bringing in millions of dollars in revenue per year. “While other carriers deliver alcoholic beverages directly to consumers, current law prohibits USPS from taking similar action. Allowing USPS to deliver wine, beer, and spirits produced across our great nation provides another option for shipping carriers. This is extremely beneficial to small craft breweries and locally owned wineries, especially in rural regions like Central Washington, who struggle to gain market access. The time has come for us to shatter these barriers and unlock the tremendous potential of the wine and alcoholic beverage industry,” said Rep. Newhouse. “This crucial legislation has the potential to create opportunity for the wine, beer, and spirits landscape, foster economic growth, and empower consumers and businesses alike.” ""The outdated prohibition on shipping alcohol through the Postal Service is bad for consumers and bad for small businesses—imposing unnecessary costs and hassle. I’m proud to partner with Rep. Newhouse on this long-overdue, bipartisan reform to support local brewers, vineyards, and distillers by improving their affordable shipping options and opening up access to new markets,” said Rep. Wexton. “Wineries, breweries, and cideries in the Salinas Valley and South Bay could use another safe delivery option to get products directly to adults nationwide. This bipartisan bill smartly updates our laws so American-owned businesses can use USPS to distribute to underserved communities in accordance with state laws. It's a win-win-win – for rural communities, agricultural businesses, and the Postal Service,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “While prohibition may have been repealed in 1933, it is still alive and well in the operations of the Postal Service. The NRLCA would like to thank Congressman Newhouse and Congresswoman Wexton for introducing the USPS Shipping Equity Act, legislation that would end an archaic Prohibition-era ban that prevents the Postal Service from delivering alcoholic beverages to consumers who are over the age of 21. Competitors of the Postal Service are already allowed to deliver these types of products. By allowing the Postal Service to compete as well, it will open up a new revenue source in a growing market. The Postal Service is constantly recognized as the most trusted government agency, and we’re confident if given the chance, and acting within the state and local delivery laws, the Postal Service can be successful in the direct-to-consumer alcohol shipping business.” – Ronnie Stutts, President, National Rural Letter Carriers Association (NRLCA) “Wineries from the Napa Valley to the Texas Hill Country and the Columbia Valley in Washington have enjoyed great success safely shipping their products directly to consumers. Direct-to-consumer wine shipping is now permitted in 47 states, and was a lifeline for the American wine industry through the pandemic. The USPS Shipping Equity Act will open up one more avenue for wineries to legally get their products to consumers in a safe and effective manner. We want to thank Representative Newhouse for his excellent leadership on this issue.” – Debra Dommen, Chair, WineAmerica & Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs, Treasury Wine Estates Americas “We thank Representatives Newhouse and Wexton for their bi-partisan legislation. As our small, domestic businesses have grown over the past 15 years, allowing the USPS to ship craft spirits will provide access to another important delivery option for small distillers in the U.S. Many of those distilleries are located in rural areas where support of their local Main Street matters. Access to the thirty-one thousand post offices in the U.S. would be a game changer, helping their small businesses to succeed and grow. We hope the Congress will act soon on this important small business initiative.” – Margie A.S. Lehrman, CEO, American Craft Spirits Association “Small and independent breweries produce hundreds of styles of beer, and due to distributor consolidation there are fewer opportunities to get their products to consumers. Direct-to-consumer shipping is a critical way for these businesses to make their low volume products accessible to the people who want to buy it. 11 states and Washington, D.C. already allow breweries to ship beer directly to consumers, the USPS Shipping Equity Act is commonsense legislation that provides those breweries with another way to access the market.” – Bob Pease, President & CEO, Brewers Association “NALC applauds Rep. Newhouse for reintroducing the USPS Shipping Equity Act. The bill is an important step toward meeting the growing needs of our customers while generating revenue for the Postal Service, expanding the agency’s service opportunities, and supporting small businesses nationwide.” – National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) Read the full text of the bill here. Original sponsors of the legislation include Reps. Newhouse (WA-04), Wexton (D-VA), Mace (R-SC), Bonamici (D-OR), Grijalva (D-AZ), Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR), Lofgren (D-CA), Cleaver (D-MO), Val Hoyle (D-OR), and Beyer (D-VA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-releases-statement-supreme-courts-wotus-ruling,Newhouse Releases Statement on the Supreme Court’s WOTUS Ruling,2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“Today is a huge win for Central Washington and rural America. The draconian WOTUS rule had cast a cloud of uncertainty over landowners, subjecting them to burdensome regulations that hindered their ability to fully utilize their property. This landmark decision from the Supreme Court is a clear demonstration of our nations’ commitment to upholding the principles of individual property rights and sends a powerful message that the federal government cannot trample upon the rights of American citizens,” said Rep. Newhouse. Newhouse continued: “With this decision, our farmers in Central Washington and across America can continue to focus on what they do best—feeding our nation and contributing to our local economies—without the unnecessary fear of unwarranted regulations impeding their progress. Now, I call on the Biden Administration to do its part and rescind its rule which would so clearly be considered unconstitutional by the highest court in the land.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-launches-central-washington-fentanyl-task-force,Newhouse Launches Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force,2023-05-24,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) launched the Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force, a vital initiative aimed at combatting the escalating fentanyl crisis plaguing communities across Central Washington and the United States. The Task Force is a working group led by Rep. Newhouse consisting of groups and individuals on the local and state levels who are on the frontlines fighting the fentanyl crisis throughout Central Washington. Task Force members include law enforcement, addiction treatment groups, medical professionals, drug court officials, school resource officers, tribal leaders, elected officials, and community leaders. ""Today, we take a bold step forward in our unwavering fight against the fentanyl crisis that has inflicted immeasurable pain on our families and friends in Central Washington and the United States,” said Rep. Newhouse. “We cannot stand idly by while this deadly drug ravages our communities, claiming lives and tearing families apart. The Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force will be a powerful force for change, bringing together the best minds and resources to tackle the growing threat of fentanyl in our region. The devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, and I thank all the dedicated groups and individuals who will join forces to combat this crisis. I am confident that this group will help protect and build a stronger Central Washington."" Below are the members of Rep. Newhouse’s Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force: Kimberly Bershing, RN, BSN, Chief Nursing Officer, MultiCare Yakima Memorial Joseph Brusic, Prosecuting Attorney, Yakima County Jered Carter, Clinical Supervisor, Sundown M Ranch & Substance Abuse Judge David Elofson (Retired), Yakima County Superior Court Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation Sergeant Chris Foreman, Chelan County Sheriff’s Office & President, Washington State Narcotics Investigators Association (WSNIA) Chief Kevin Fuhr, Moses Lake Police Department Dr. Raul Garcia, Medical Director, Astria Toppenish Hospital Dr. Frank Garner, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Comprehensive Healthcare Chief Chris Guerrero, Kennewick Police Department Detective Erik Horbatko, Yakima Police Department Ana Johnson, Program Manager, Chelan County Behavioral Health Unit Chief Rob Layman, Sunnyside Police Department Amanda McKinney, District 1 Commissioner, Yakima County Rep. Gina Mosbrucker, Washington’s 14th Legislative District Dr. John Roll, PhD, Professor and Vice Dean for Research, Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine Sergeant Rafael Sanchez, Yakima Police Department Chief James Shike, Yakama Nation Tribal Police Alicia Stromme Tobin, Executive Director, Safe Yakima Valley Megan Tweedy, Community Member Sheriff Robert Udell, Yakima County Andrew Wonacott, Community Member “Treatment is an effective intervention for the opiate crisis, but it takes the efforts of everyone to help encourage people to seek recovery.” – Jered Carter, Clinical Supervisor, Sundown M Ranch “I applaud Congressman Newhouse for leading the fight in Washington state in regards to the Fentanyl epidemic. One life lost to Fentanyl abuse is too many. Our community and our children's future are in grave danger if we do not come together and work towards combating this poison from continuing to be pushed into our community. The way this Fentanyl is being marketed, distributed and mixed in with other drugs make no mistake the Cartels are targeting our youth and the next generation of our loved ones. I am excited to see what we can do with Federal Government support to fight against those that are bringing this into our homes and work diligently to hopefully solve this issue.” – Sergeant Chris Foreman, Chelan County Sheriff’s Office & President, Washington State Narcotics Investigators Association (WSNIA) “We need to protect the families of our state and get this killer drug off our streets. Too many people including our children are dying every day.” – Dr. Raul Garcia, Medical Director, Astria Toppenish Hospital “I look forward to working with this group and Representative Newhouse to be on the forefront of combatting the fentanyl crisis. This is affecting all of our communities and together we can make a difference.” – Chief Rob Layman, Sunnyside Police Department ""The proliferation of Fentanyl into our schools, homes and public spaces is a danger that strikes constant fear in the hearts of parents who worry about their children's safety. As a mother to young children, I share in the frustration over the lack of action to eliminate this deadly outbreak from crossing our borders and entering into our communities. I am passionately committed to finding new ways to educate all ages about the extreme risk of Fentanyl and to proactively craft legislation and policies that will prevent Fentanyl from plaguing our communities."" – Amanda McKinney, District 1 Commissioner, Yakima County “I look forward to engaging in conversation addressing the overdose epidemic. Saving lives through evidence-based treatment, like medications for opioid use disorder, is paramount to changing the upward trajectory of deaths that devastate our communities.” – Megan Tweedy, Community Member “If fentanyl has not touched you yet, it will; it is an indiscriminate killer. I am 100% in support of this task force. As a father who has lost two sons to this crisis, we have to do something now! I applaud the leadership Dan Newhouse is taking to identify this crisis and lead efforts to get something in place. As noted, this is a multi-faceted problem that will take everyone's contribution to make a difference from stopping the supply, giving our first responders the tools necessary, educating the public on the crisis, and providing support for those who are impacted or need assistance. I look forward to working with Dan and the Task Force to assist in addressing this crisis head on.” – Andrew Wonacott, Community Member Background: The Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force will address the entire spectrum of issues tied to the fentanyl crisis, focusing on enforcement, education, prevention, and treatment. The group will plan to meet on a quarterly basis. The goal of the group will be to research, discuss, and execute well-informed initiatives that will do the following to address the fentanyl crisis in Central Washington: Compile data from federal, state, and local communities to be able to accurately assess trends in the fentanyl crisis. Assess current resources available to the public and frontline workers, and where potential shortcomings may exist. Discuss potential legislative action on the federal, state, and local levels. Help organizations and local leaders educate the public about the dangers of fentanyl and opportunities for treatment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-stop-biden-administrations-blatant-land,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Stop the Biden Administration’s Blatant Land Grab,2023-05-22,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced legislation to direct the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to withdraw the proposed rule titled “Conservation and Landscape Health.” The proposed rule undermines FLPMA’s multiple-use requirement for BLM lands and would hinder access to public lands for energy and critical mineral development, grazing forest management, and recreation, which would have an outsized effect on Central Washington’s ranchers and its residents. “In Central Washington, we know locking up lands with preservationist designations does not automatically guarantee healthy landscapes. In fact, the opposite is often the case,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Farmers and ranchers are the best stewards of the land, not bureaucrats in Washington D.C. who seek to hamper our land managers’ ability to conserve the land they rely on for their livelihoods. The BLM has time and again shown their aim is to drastically reduce, or even eliminate, grazing on public lands, and this proposed rule is the latest iteration of this effort. I am proud to introduce legislation to rescind it.” “The Washington Cattlemen’s Association (WCA) exists to protect, preserve and grow the cattle industry in the State of Washington,” said Chelsea Hajny, Executive Vice President, Washington Cattlemen’s Association. “Grazing on public lands is critical to our ranchers. We applaud Congressman Dan Newhouse for introducing legislation to rescind the BLM’s proposed rule that would threaten this grazing. Cattlemen have, and will continue to be, the ultimate stewards of the land while simultaneously producing the most desired protein source in the world.” Original sponsors of the legislation include Reps. Dan Newhouse (WA-04), John Curtis (UT-03), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Mark Amodei (NV-02), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Chris Stewart (UT-02), Russ Fulcher (ID-01), Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Blake Moore (UT-01), Burgess Owens (UT-04), Cliff Bentz (OR-02), and Ryan Zinke (MT-01). Read the full text of H.R. 3397 here. Background: Yesterday, Rep. Newhouse and Senator Cynthia Lummis sent a letter to BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning to point out how the new rule would lock up public land and hurt local communities and request the BLM extend their public comment period to a minimum of 120 days to hear from people across the west about the impacts of the new rule. BLM’s proposed rule subverts the Congressional “multiple-use” mandate—established by the Federal Land Policy and Management Act—that federal land and its resources must be utilized for various purposes to “best meet the needs of the people."" By enacting a restrictive framework for ‘conservation leases,’ the rule threatens access to federal lands for other critical purposes such as grazing, mining, outdoor recreation, and energy development projects while giving conservation lease holders the power to prevent access to public lands. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Mike Lee (R-Utah), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announces-winners-2023-congressional-art-competition,Newhouse Announces Winners of the 2023 Congressional Art Competition,2023-05-16,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Image Winner: The Pulse of America, Amelia Dufault, 12th grade, A.C. Davis High School WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement announcing the winners of the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for high school students in Washington’s 4th Congressional District: “I extend my congratulations to Amelia Dufault of A.C. Davis High School on her winning entry, and my sincere thanks to all of the very talented Central Washington students who submitted artwork for consideration in this year’s Congressional Art Competition,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Amelia’s vibrant landscape of Mt. Rainier demonstrates artistic mastery and will be a great representation of our beautiful state in the Capitol. I look forward to seeing the beauty of Central Washington every time I walk through the Capitol.” The winning entry, The Pulse of America by Amelia Dufault of A.C. Davis High School, is an acrylic painting of Mt. Rainier accompanied by an outdoor landscape. This piece will be hung in the U.S. Capitol alongside winning entries from congressional districts across the country for one year. The winner will be invited to visit Washington, D.C. to attend a reception sponsored by the Congressional Institute, which hosts the annual competition. Rep. Newhouse has invited the second and third place winners, Lucy Korzh (Poem to my grandparents) of Sterling Junior High and Marlene Martinez (Gift of Industry) of A.C. Davis High School, to hang their art in the Tri-Cities and Yakima District Offices, respectively. The winning entries can be found below, and you can view all of the 2023 submissions here. Image Winner: The Pulse of America, Amelia Dufault, 12th grade, A.C. Davis High School Image Second Place: Poem to my grandparents, Lucy Korzh, 9th grade, Sterling Junior High Image Third Place: Gift of Industry, Marlene Martinez, 12th grade, A.C. Davis High School ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announces-100-members-congressional-western-caucus,Newhouse Announces 100 Members of Congressional Western Caucus,2023-05-12,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"“The Congressional Western Caucus is, without a doubt, the preeminent voice for Central Washington and rural America on Capitol Hill. As Chairman of the Western Caucus, I am honored to lead 100 Members from across the United States to advocate for our rural way of life and serve as champions for these communities who feel they have been left behind by the federal government’s over-reaching laws and burdensome regulatory red tape,” said Rep. Newhouse. “It is clear to me—just as I know it is clear to my constituents—that the Biden Administration is failing to display the leadership America needs and deserves. Instead of continuing to cater to the radicals in their party, it’s time for them to take a look at how their policies are harming us in rural communities across the country. Because we deserve far better.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-select-committee-ccp-send-letter-tiktok-ceo-censorship-and,"Newhouse, Select Committee on the CCP Send Letter to TikTok CEO on Censorship and Monitoring",2023-05-12,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and members of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) sent a letter to TikTok CEO Show Chew expressing grave concern about TikTok's ongoing censorship and monitoring individuals who view topics disfavored by the CCP—at what appears to be at the behest of its Chinese-based owner, ByteDance, and the CCP. In part, the lawmakers wrote, ""Just last week, TikTok suspended a TikTok account from the Acton Institute, which was sharing video clips from a documentary about Hong Kong newspaper owner Jimmy Lai, who was imprisoned for his support for Hong Kong’s democracy movement. Recent reporting also revealed that TikTok was tracking individuals who interacted with gay content, and a third report published internal documents showing how TikTok’s parent company ByteDance tracks and censors “sensitive words”—in practice, topics disfavored by the Chinese Communist Party."" Lawmakers conveyed to Chew that companies controlled by foreign adversaries have no place censoring American speech or controlling the information space, making six demands to provide the below information no later than May 24: All documents and communications related to moderation decisions around Acton’s account, including content censorship, account suspension and reinstatement. All policies, guidelines, and communications that describe or discuss content moderation, including the enforcement of “community guidelines.” All documents and communications between ByteDance and TikTok regarding content moderation either in the U.S. or abroad. All information about TikTok’s “heating” of content on behalf of the CCP, PRC government, ByteDance, or any other PRC entity. An explanation of whether TikTok believes that Jimmy Lai’s detention comports with the rule of law or democratic principles and, if not, the implications of Mr. Lai’s detention for press freedom. All documents and communications related to the process and methodology of putting TikTok users on lists or tracking them—including but not limited to the tracking of users who watched gay content as reported by the Wall Street Journal. Chairman Mike Gallagher and Representatives Rob Wittman, Blaine Luetkemeyer, Andy Barr, John Moolenaar, Darin LaHood, Neal P. Dunn, Jim Banks, Dusty Johnson, Michelle Steel, Ashely Hinson, and Carlos Gimenez cosigned the letter. You can read the full letter here and below. Dear Mr. Chew, The U.S. House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party writes to express deep concern and to seek additional information about recent reporting on TikTok’s ongoing censorship and tracking of sensitive topics. Just last week, TikTok suspended a TikTok account from the Acton Institute, which was sharing video clips from a documentary about Hong Kong newspaper owner Jimmy Lai, who was imprisoned for his support for Hong Kong’s democracy movement. Recent reporting also revealed that TikTok was tracking individuals who interacted with gay content, and a third report published internal documents showing how TikTok’s parent company ByteDance tracks and censors “sensitive words”—in practice, topics disfavored by the Chinese Communist Party. Each report raises serious concerns about the extent to which TikTok’s decisions continue to track the priorities of its owner, ByteDance, and, therefore, the Chinese Communist Party. The Acton Institute’s TikTok account was set up two weeks ago to promote the release of an Acton Institute documentary about Jimmy Lai, a Hong Kong media mogul who was imprisoned because of his support for Hong Kong’s democracy movement, which the People’s Republic of China (PRC) repressed. All of the content that the Acton Institute shared on TikTok was about the documentary film. TikTok’s actions to censor the account began almost immediately. TikTok first censored a video that Acton shared which showed the Hong Kong police attacking pro-democracy protestors. Acton continued to share video clips from the documentary. On May 2, with no prior warning or explanation, Acton’s account was suspended. After a public outcry, TikTok restored the account but continued to censor some of the video clips from the film for violating TikTok’s “community guidelines,” but it provided no explanation about how or why the clips were in violation. As Acton and the media continued to shine a light on TikTok’s censorship, TikTok eventually restored the videos. All these actions reinforce the very serious concerns that Members of Congress—including many Select Committee Members—have repeatedly raised about the extent to which TikTok’s decisions, including decisions about content moderation, are subject to the influence, control, or direction of the CCP and/or the PRC government. TikTok owner ByteDance’s deep links to the CCP are well established. We therefore request additional information about TikTok’s content moderation policies and practices. Although TikTok denies that it moderates content on behalf or at the direction of the CCP or PRC government, TikTok has repeatedly made decisions that are directly aligned with the CCP’s censorship priorities. For example, TikTok has secretly suppressed topics the PRC finds politically sensitive, including its genocide of Uyghur Muslims, the status of Tibet, and the 1989 massacre in Tiananmen Square. It has banned accounts whose posts disparage the “national honor,” and research suggests that TikTok suppressed videos about midterms and voting last year. In a clear precursor to the censorship of Acton, TikTok even blocked an American teenage Muslim activist who criticized the CCP’s treatment of Uyghur Muslims–only reinstating her account after a public outcry. These decisions raise very serious concerns about the extent to which TikTok is influenced, controlled, or directed by Beijing’s priorities. These latest examples of censorship and tracking reinforce the very serious concerns described above. TikTok’s stock answer—that in some cases, it has reinstated content or halted a particular tracking technique—is inadequate because TikTok has never adequately explained how those censorship decisions were made in the first instance or given a complete and comprehensive explanation of how its community guidelines operate in practice. That means that, for every egregious decision that is reversed after a public outcry, there are likely many more such censorship decisions that fly under the radar and therefore aren’t reversed. What we do know is that TikTok’s parent company ByteDance’s founder promised to integrate “socialist core values” into ByteDance technology and that ByteDance’s editor-in-chief, who is the Secretary of its CCP committee, vowed that the CCP committee would “take the lead” across all product and business lines. Foreign adversaries should not be allowed to censor Americans’ speech directly or indirectly or to control the information space through which Americans access news. We therefore request that you provide the following information by May 24, 2023: All documents and communications related to moderation decisions around Acton’s account, including content censorship, account suspension and reinstatement; All policies, guidelines, and communications that describe or discuss content moderation, including the enforcement of “community guidelines”; All documents and communications between ByteDance and TikTok regarding content moderation either in the U.S. or abroad; All information about TikTok’s “heating” of content on behalf of the CCP, PRC government, ByteDance, or any other PRC entity; An explanation of whether TikTok believes that Jimmy Lai’s detention comports with the rule of law or democratic principles and, if not, the implications of Mr. Lai’s detention for press freedom; and All documents and communications related to the process and methodology of putting TikTok users on lists or tracking them—including but not limited to the tracking of users who watched gay content as reported by the Wall Street Journal. The House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party has broad authority to “investigate and submit policy recommendations on the status of the Chinese Communist Party’s economic, technological, and security progress and its competition with the United States” under H. Res. 11.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-urges-biden-administration-stand-potato-growers-trade-dispute,Newhouse Urges Biden Administration to Stand Up for Potato Growers in Trade Dispute with Japan,2023-05-12,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Dan Kildee (D-MI) and U.S. Sens. Jim Risch (R-ID) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) led 31 of their colleagues to urge the Biden Administration to support American potato growers gain access to additional global markets. U.S. potato exports reached a record $2.1 billion in sales in 2022, with Japan being a top export market for U.S. frozen potatoes. However, fresh “table-stock” potatoes, a category that includes common types of potato like Russets and Reds, are blocked for export by Japanese law despite decades of negotiations. The U.S. potato industry estimates that access to the Japanese market will result in an additional $150 million per year in exports. In a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, the Members write: “Table stock access to Japan was first requested almost 30 years ago. It was elevated to a top priority in U.S.-Japan plant health negotiations in September 2019. However, despite the efforts of USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Japan continues to delay substantive negotiations on table stock access, including with respect to our most recent request for Japan to provide a Pest Risk Assessment (PRA).” “The U.S. potato industry thanks Senators Cantwell and Risch, Congressmen Newhouse and Kildee, along with all the signatories to this important letter. Access to Japan for U.S. fresh potatoes would result in a 10% increase in global exports for our industry, roughly $150 million annually. This negotiation is highly-charged politically in Japan and the strong support from these members of Congress is essential in countering that pressure and seeing our goal for American growers achieved.” – Kam Quarles, CEO, National Potato Council You can read the full letter here and below. Dear Secretary Vilsack, We are requesting your assistance on opening the Japanese market for U.S. fresh table stock potatoes. This is a vital international trade issue and if successful, the U.S. potato industry estimates that this access will result in an additional $150 million per year in exports. Table stock access to Japan was first requested almost 30 years ago. It was elevated to a top priority in U.S.-Japan plant health negotiations in September 2019. However, despite the efforts of USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Japan continues to delay substantive negotiations on table stock access, including with respect to our most recent request for Japan to provide a Pest Risk Assessment (PRA). Japan already conducted a thorough review of U.S. fresh potatoes in 2006 when the market was opened for U.S. potatoes for processing. During this review, the U.S. potato industry addressed all Japanese technical concerns with comprehensive mitigations. There is no valid phytosanitary justification for the market to remain closed or for the government’s current refusal to negotiate. The U.S. potato industry has a proud history of exporting fresh potatoes to many markets in the Indo-Pacific, including South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand. These exports occur safely and routinely throughout the year, providing benefits for the consumers in those countries and our growers here in the United States. We strongly urge you to elevate this issue with your counterparts in Japan with the goal of receiving a PRA before the upcoming bilateral negotiation this Fall 2023. We believe that a resolution is only possible with strong political support in the United States. Thank you for your attention to this important trade matter for U.S. agriculture.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-speaks-majority-leader-house-floor-votes-yes-strengthen-border,"Newhouse Speaks to Majority Leader on House Floor, Votes Yes to Strengthen Border",2023-05-11,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) spoke on the House floor prior to voting Yes for H.R. 2, the Secure Border Act of 2023 with House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) about the importance of strengthening the border while providing essential reforms to immigration, asylum, and workforce laws. “Border security is national security, which is why tackling the crisis on our southern border is crucial to delivering a nation that’s safe for the American people. The Biden Administration has offered no long-term solution and to date has been a failure at securing our southern border,” said Rep. Newhouse. “To end this crisis, we must secure our border while also including essential reform to our agricultural workforce laws. Without a stable workforce, our farmers and ranchers struggle to harvest and tend to their crops. This poses a direct threat to our nation's food security, national security, and economic prosperity.” Rep. Newhouse continued: “Congress should only implement E-Verify if we simultaneously stabilize our agricultural workforce, remove the seasonality requirement from the H-2A agricultural visa program, and provide wage reform that ensures H-2A wages and benefits are more market-based. After many discussions with House leadership, they have committed to addressing the agriculture workforce and E-Verify program concerns I raised. With their assurances of a solution and additional legislative language that ensures these concerns will be addressed should a final border security bill be sent to the President, I am proud to vote Yes on H.R. 2 and feel confident that we have made this a strong bill that will secure our southern border, protect our communities, and provide certainty to the agricultural industry.” Full remarks as prepared below: Rep. Newhouse: House Republicans know that border security is national security, which is why tackling this crisis is crucial to fulfilling our promise to the American people and delivering a nation that’s safe. Since President Biden took office, there have been over 5 million illegal crossings over our southern border and more than 1.3 million people have evaded apprehension. At the same time, fentanyl is pouring over the Southwest border and into our communities, killing Americans at catastrophic rates. On May 11th, Title 42 is set to expire, which is only going to exacerbate the current border crisis. President Biden and our Democratic colleagues have offered no long-term solution. While H.R. 2 does much to strengthen the border, it fails to address an issue critical to America’s farmers—reliable access to agricultural workers. We need essential reform to our immigration, asylum, and workforce laws—issues I have been relentlessly working on since coming to Congress. The United States is blessed with fertile lands and a climate conducive to agricultural productivity. However, without an adequate workforce, our farmers and ranchers struggle to harvest and tend to their crops. This poses a direct threat to our nation's food security, national security, and economic prosperity. Mandating E-Verify would have a devastating impact on American agriculture, including processing of agricultural products, if it were to be enacted without reforms to our agricultural labor system. They must go hand in hand. The current status quo is not working for our farmers, and we must address this crisis. We cannot mandate E-Verify without stabilizing our existing agricultural workforce, removal of the seasonality requirement from the H-2A agricultural visa program, and wage reform that makes H-2A wages and benefits more market-based. With the amended legislative language, I support H.R. 2 but seek a commitment from leadership and my colleagues that we continue the important work on true bipartisan legislation that will resolve the workforce needs in our industry. Thank you, Mr. Leader. We need real reforms that will ensure our farmers and ranchers have the workforce they need to feed our country and ensure our food security and economic prosperity. I yield back. Majority Leader Scalise: I want to thank my good friend for yielding. I also want to thank you for your unwavering support of American agriculture. The industry is lucky to have such a strong advocate and champion in Congress. I am proud to bring HR 2 to the Floor today – it is the strongest border security bill this House has ever considered. I want to thank Chairmen Jordan, Green, and McCaul for their tireless work to put together this bill at such a pivotal time with Title 42 expiring today and our border crisis only getting worse. And I’d like to thank our lead sponsors, Mario Diaz Balart and Tom McClintock – they were both instrumental in getting this deal done. Dan, I want to thank you for working with us – I know you have some concerns, but I am glad we have been able to work through those concerns. As Majority Leader, I can commit to you that we will continue to work with you on legislation to address the workforce needs of our agriculture industry. Background: H.R. 2, the Secure Border Act of 2023, is the strongest and most consequential border security and immigration enforcement to date, fulfilling key promises made by House Republicans to do the following:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-reintroduces-bicameral-bill-standardize-food-date-labels-cut,"Newhouse Reintroduces Bicameral Bill to Standardize Food Date Labels, Cut Food Waste",2023-05-09,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) reintroduced the bicameral Food Date Labeling Act, a bill designed to end consumer confusion around food date labeling by standardizing date labels on food products to ensure usable food is not thrown away. “While we in Central Washington, just like people across the nation, continue to struggle with high prices in the grocery store, an estimated 40 percent of the food production in the U.S. goes to waste. It's important Americans are not prematurely throwing out safe food—and that starts with bettering our food labeling practices,” said Rep. Newhouse, co-chair of the Food Recovery Caucus. “The Food Date Labeling Act will end the consumer confusion around food date labeling so we can reduce the amount of food wasted in our nation and allow Americans to save more of their hard-earned money.” “Our current food labeling practices are outdated, confusing, and completely arbitrary, resulting in around 90 percent of Americans prematurely throwing out perfectly safe food. This staggering waste takes a toll on families’ wallets, on the environment, and on the economy,” Pingree, co-chair of the Bipartisan Food Recovery Caucus. “By standardizing the food date labeling system and making labels less confusing for consumers, the bipartisan Food Date Labeling Act will help ensure food is being used and eaten, rather than being thrown out,” said Rep. Pingree. “This legislation would provide consumers and grocers with a clear, consistent food labeling system. Current labels lack clarity about when products are safe to eat—discouraging donations and contributing to food waste and insecurity. The Food Date Labeling Act is an important step toward streamlining our labeling process and reducing the 40 percent of our nation’s food supply that is thrown away every year,” said Senator Blumenthal. Full text of the bill can be found here. Background: Currently, there are no federal regulations related to date labels on food products, aside from infant formula. Date labeling regulations are left up to states, which means consumers are left trying to sort out a patchwork of confounding terms. “Sell by,” “use by,” “freshest on,” and “expires on” are just a few of the phrases currently being used on food products. The Food Date Labeling Act establishes an easily understood food date labeling system—“BEST If Used By” communicates to consumers that the quality of the food product may begin to deteriorate after the date and “USE By” communicates the end of the estimated period of shelf life, after which the product should not be consumed. Under the bill, food manufacturers can decide which of their products carry a quality date or a discard date. It also allows food to be sold or donated after its labeled quality date, helping more food reach those who need it. An estimated 40 percent of food produced in the U.S. is wasted. Domestic food production accounts for significant land use, water usage, and energy consumption and results in 11% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, recovering food helps reduce climate change and ensures that the hard work and resources that go into producing food is not wasted.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-leads-resolution-designate-national-day-awareness-missing-0,Newhouse Leads Resolution to Designate National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls,2023-05-05,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Rep. Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) led their House colleagues in introducing H. Res. 353, a resolution to designate May 5, 2023 as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The resolution demonstrates the lawmakers’ solidarity with the families and loved ones of missing and murdered Indigenous women, and it calls on the people of the United States to commemorate the lives of American Indian and Alaska Native women whose cases are documented and undocumented in public records and the media. “Indigenous women and girls living on reservations experience murder rates of more than 10 times the national average, and more than 4 out of 5 Indigenous women have experienced violence. These rates are unacceptable,"" said Rep. Newhouse. “We must do more to ensure these crimes are solved and no longer under-reported or under-investigated. Designating May 5th as National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls will help shine a light on these heartbreaking tragedies and serve as a reminder to Congress that we must continue to support our Indigenous communities as we work to bring them the justice they deserve.” He was joined by Reps. McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Johnson (R-SD), Cole (R-OK), Bice (R-OK), Stauber (R-MN), Pocan (D-WI), Davids (D-KS), DelBene (D-WA), Smith (D-WA), LaMalfa (R-CA), Smith (R-NE), Salazar (R-FL), Rosendale (R-MT), Armstrong (R-ND), Stewart (R-UT), Joyce (R-OH), Moore (D-WI), Matsui (D-CA), Gallego (D-AZ), Porter (D-CA), Norton Holmes (D-DC), McCollum (D-MN), Bonamici (D-OR), Stansbury (D-NM), Blumenauer (D-OR), Brownley (D-CA), Tokuda (D-HI), Case (D-HI), Huffman (D-CA), Fernandez (D-NM), Pingree (D-ME), Kilmer (D-WA), Schrier (D-WA), Stanton (D-AZ), Val Hoyle (D-OR), and Soto (D-FL). The resolution is also supported by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), Midwest Alliance of Sovereign Tribes, Yakama Nation, Seattle Indian Health Board, Urban Indian Health Institute, National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, and Muscogee (Creek) Nation. “This resolution recognizes the untold numbers of Indigenous women and girls who have gone missing or murdered, as well as the many lives that have been impacted by their absence. May 5th serves as an important reminder to renew our efforts here in Congress and under Secretary Haaland’s leadership to make sure tribal governments have the access to resources they need to address this crisis of violence. I want to thank Congressman Newhouse for co-leading this resolution and for helping to bring this issue to the forefront of our national conscience.” – Rep. Grijalva, House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member ""The Colville Tribes appreciates and supports the efforts of Rep. Dan Newhouse, Ranking Member Grijalva, and others in Congress to keep attention focused on the problem of missing and murdered Indigenous women. Despite receiving greater attention in recent years, the problem persists as Native women still suffer violence at rates much higher than the national average. The Colville Tribes would welcome a MMIW law enforcement presence specifically dedicated to serve the Pacific Northwest."" – Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation “The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) commends the efforts taken today by Representative Dan Newhouse and Representative Raúl Grijalva and other members of the House of Representatives to recognize May 5, 2023, as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) and Girls,” said NCAI Treasurer Shannon Holsey. “We need new collaborations to engage with Indigenous women, families, communities, and governments to remove systemic barriers and identify solutions centered on women’s health and safety. Native women are victimized at rates of more than ten times that of other women and there is no time to waste to not only raise awareness of this epidemic, but to act and save the lives of our mothers, sisters, and daughters and today’s resolution rightfully calls on more hard work to be done to bring this ongoing crisis to an end.” – Shannon Holsey, President of Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians, Co-Chair of NCAI’s Violence Against Women Task Force, and Treasurer of NCAI “The Yakama Nation appreciates and supports the diligence of members of Congress, particularly Congressman Dan Newhouse, at increasing the awareness of the continued crisis of violence against Indigenous people. While the collection of data is important, we must now implement sound and effective policies and programs to combat this violence and we urge that funds and personnel are made available at every level of government so that those committing these acts are prosecuted and all possible corrective actions are taken to protect Indigenous people, especially our women and girls."" – Gerald Lewis, Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council “We are grateful to Representative Newhouse for introducing his MMIW resolution and for his efforts to bring attention to this crisis. Holding this space in remembrance for families and relatives is important for healing in our communities. We must all take meaningful action every day to address this crisis and uplift Indigenous voices and leadership.” – Abigail Echo-Hawk, Executive Vice-President of Seattle Indian Health Board and Director of Urban Indian Health Institute “The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) recognizes and honors the countless American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women and girls who have been murdered or gone missing and provides a space for families and survivors who continue to raise awareness and seek justice, healing, and lasting change. The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center (NIWRC) thanks Representatives Grijalva and Newhouse for designating May 5 as the National Day of Awareness for MMIWG.” – Lucy R. Simpson, Executive Director, National Indigenous Women's Resource Center (NIWRC) “The Muscogee (Creek) Nation has been aggressively exercising its sovereign powers pursuant to the McGirt decision and tribal VAWA provisions to protect the women and children on our reservation lands. This resolution marks another step towards addressing the ongoing tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women and children. For far too long their faces, their stories and their pain has been ignored. So it is right and just that Congress set aside a day to remember those who have been lost and those who still need our help.” – Principal Chief David Hill, Muscogee (Creek) Nation “Too many women in America find themselves living in fear of becoming a victim of violence and predatory behavior. This is especially true in Washington State, where Native American women are murdered or go missing at the second-highest rate in the country. This is a statistic we should be doing everything in our power to change for the tribes in our Eastern Washington community. I’m proud to help lead this resolution to stand with the families of every victim and reaffirm our commitment to ending this nationwide crisis before another innocent life is lost.” – Rep. Rodgers “Much work remains to be done to solve the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People. As a long-time leader on this issue, I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution recognizing the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. We must continue working together on a bipartisan basis to ensure Tribes have the resources they need to address this crisis.” – Rep. Gallego “American Indian women living on reservations face murder rates more than 10 times the national average and four in five American Indian women will experience violence in their lifetime. These statistics are unacceptable. I’m proud to shine a light on these tragedies and will continue to advocate for vulnerable Native populations—this day of awareness is much needed.” – Rep. Johnson “American Indian and Alaska Native women have been disproportionately targeted by dangerous predators and experience murder rates of more than 10 times the national average. Because of this, bringing awareness to the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls crisis and providing for additional resources to combat violence in Indian Country is imperative. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this important resolution so that we never forget this critical fight.” – Rep. Cole, Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and Member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma “I strongly express my support for the designation of May 5, 2023, as the ‘National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’. Not only are Indigenous people disproportionately the victims of violence in America, but also in Oklahoma. A recent study by the Urban Indian Health Institute rated Oklahoma in the top 10 states for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. We must continue working to bring awareness to these heartbreaking tragedies so that affected families may find justice.” – Rep. Bice “As a former law enforcement officer, I know that our Native American communities face disproportionately high rates of violence, including in my home state of Minnesota. I co-sponsored this resolution to raise awareness of the heartbreaking crisis of high rates of missing and murdered Indigenous women, and to recognize the additional work needed to keep them safe.” – Rep. Stauber “Indigenous women and girls are often at greater risk of harm and abuse. They experience murder rates far above the national average. Designating May 5th as a National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls I hope will help motivate action to help their plight.” – Rep. LaMalfa “Indigenous women are murdered and disappear at rates that far exceed other communities. Designating May 5th as ‘National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ will cast a light on appalling tragedy and help mitigate the suffering of Indigenous women who desperately need our support.” – Rep. Rosendale “There is a crisis of violence against Native American women and girls. It’s critically important to raise awareness and help bring an end to these heartbreaking acts of violence against Native Americans. The families and communities deserve answers.” – Rep. Armstrong “I stand in solidarity with the mourning relatives of the missing and murdered Indigenous women in New Mexico and across our country. I want them to know we see their pain, and they are not alone. Sadly, Native women, girls, and relatives are murdered at a rate more than 10 times the national average. Together we can work to end violence against Native people and build healthy and thriving communities. The reauthorization of the 2022 Violence Against Women Act improved coordination among law enforcement, and provided additional resources for Indigenous families and communities. I’m proud to cosponsor this resolution and recognize May 5th as the ‘National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.’ Their families deserve healing. Our missing and murdered sisters and relatives deserve justice.” – Rep. Fernández, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs “The disproportionate rate of violence against Indigenous women is staggering, with native women facing murder rates more than 10 times the national average. As the lead Democrat on the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, I have been proud to secure much needed resources at the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Service to stop these terrible tragedies. But there is still much more to be done to protect native women. This resolution not only recognizes and sheds a light on the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls epidemic in Maine and across the country but signals our renewed dedication to strengthening federal protections for Tribal communities.” – Rep. Pingree “American Indian and Alaskan Native women face disproportionate rates of violence, with more than 1.5 million of these women experiencing violence in their lifetime. By designating May 5th as National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Native Women and Girls, we hope to increase awareness of these serious disparities and call greater attention to the work that still needs to be done. I am honored to join Representative Newhouse and bring attention to this crisis.” – Rep. Schrier “The silent crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women continues to wreak havoc on Native communities throughout our country. Currently, murder rates of Native women are ten times the national average, with homicide being the leading cause of death. I thank Representative Newhouse and Representative Grijalva who are working to ensure all Native women and children can live safely, without fear.” – Rep. Davids “There have been an alarming number of missing and murdered Indigenous women across the U.S., and we know too many of these cases also go unreported and are therefore uncounted entirely. In Washington state, more than four times as many Indigenous women go missing than their white counterparts, yet these cases receive little or no media attention. Although Washington state created the nation’s first alert system for missing Indigenous people to help address this issue, we must do more to reverse this national trend. This resolution is a critical step toward raising awareness and providing justice for Indigenous women in Washington state and across the nation.” – Rep. DelBene “Indigenous women in Washington State are about four times as likely as a white woman to go missing and often these crimes go under-reported and under-investigated. This is an unacceptable reality that we must do better to address. In my district, the Urban Indian Health Institute in Seattle provides the leading research on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). We must continue to put funding behind these organizations to advance solutions for the families and communities that have been devastated by this crisis. I’m proud to support this resolution to designate May 5th, 2023, as the “National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls” to shed more light on this urgent crisis.” – Rep. Smith ""Although the epidemic of missing Indigenous people spans the country, these tragic crimes are often ignored. Tribal members in my district have been putting in the hard work to protect their people, and last year held the first-of-its-kind MMIWP Summit – but they can’t do it all alone. We have to shine a light on this crisis, and by designating May 5th as the National Day of Awareness for MMIW, we can call attention to this pervasive issue and get tribal communities the focus and support needed to end this injustice.” – Rep. Huffman “Tragically, many Indigenous women and girls have experienced violence, exploitation, and even death. This demands our collective attention and action. By designating a National Day of Awareness, we honor the memory of those we have lost, support the families left behind, and reaffirm our commitment to addressing the root causes of this crisis. Congress must continue to advocate for comprehensive solutions that empower Indigenous communities, improve public safety, and ensure that every missing and murdered Indigenous woman and girl is not forgotten.” – Rep. Kilmer “I join my colleagues in this bipartisan effort to recognize May 5th as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) and Girls. Too many of my Native sisters have been taken from their communities and their families are left with no answers or justice. Today and every day, I will keep working to build on the efforts Congress has taken to address this epidemic of violence and save lives.” – Rep. Moore “Today, we recognize and honor the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives by designating May 5 as a day of memory and of action. This day serves as a solemn reminder of the crisis facing Indigenous communities across the country and the world. It is a call to action to address the systemic violence, racism, and historic injustices that have enabled this crisis to persist. We must come together to support survivors, uplift the voices of families and communities who have suffered losses, and to demand accountability from those responsible as we work to address systemic violence against Indigenous people, expand support services for survivors and families, and work for justice.” – Rep. Stansbury “I am grateful to Rep. Dan Newhouse and Rep. Raul Grijalva for casting a light on a little known but very alarming crisis in my Hawai‘i: the plight of missing and murdered women and girls who are kanaka maoli – of Native Hawaiian ancestry. According to a report by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and the Hawai‘i State Commission on the Status of Women, more than a quarter of the missing girls in Hawai‘i are Native Hawaiian, and 43 percent of sex trafficking cases in Waikiki involve Native Hawaiian girls. While their measure rightly calls attention to this crisis by proposing to designate May 5th of each year as “The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls”, it also demonstrates solidarity with the families and friends of victims and recognizes that much more work must be done to deal with what is a national crisis.” – Rep. Case “The epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls is one of the most under-reported, under-discussed, and under-funded tragedies in America today. Bringing awareness to this silent crisis–and ensuring the federal government treat it with the attention it deserves–is the first step towards delivering justice.” – Rep. Stanton “Indigenous women are murdered at a rate ten times higher than the national average. On the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, we must recommit to providing the resources needed to address this disproportionate level of violence facing Indigenous women."" – Rep. Pocan “On this National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, we once again acknowledge that Native women continue to be disproportionately likely to experience sexual assault and violence in their lifetimes. I stand in solidarity with American Indian and Alaska Native communities demanding justice, and I echo their calls for the federal government to do more to end this epidemic and work in partnership with tribal communities to get them the support they need.” – Rep. Porter “I am proud to support the resolution to recognize May 5th as a National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Native Women and Girls. This day serves as a powerful reminder to honor the lives of those we have lost and to come together in solidarity with Indigenous communities across the nation. Through education, awareness, and action, we can work towards a hopeful future where all women and girls are valued, protected, and respected. Let us continue to raise our voices and let this day be a symbol of our commitment to creating a brighter future for all.” – Rep. Soto “There is much more work to be done to address the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). I join my colleagues in introducing this resolution to promote awareness of the disproportionate rates of violence perpetrated against our Indigenous neighbors. We must continue to stand with Tribal communities in working to ensure their safety, and I will keep working to invest federal resources to fight this injustice.” – Rep. McCollum Click here for the full text of the resolution. Background: On March 2, 2023, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act, a bipartisan bill that strengthens tribal law enforcement and increases public safety in Indian Country. The legislation addresses federal inefficiencies that hurt Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement recruitment and retention, increases the effectiveness of federal missing persons resources, and gives resources to Tribes and states to combat the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. In May 2022, Rep. Newhouse introduced a resolution to designate May 5, 2022, as the National Day of Awareness for MMIW. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-mcmorris-rodgers-risch-press-white-house-ceq-answers-actions,"Newhouse, McMorris Rodgers, Risch Press White House CEQ for Answers on Actions Related to Columbia-Snake River Mediation Process",2023-05-03,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) joined Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Senator James Risch (R-ID) in pressing the White House Council on Environmental Quality for answers about the White House’s approach to public engagement during the confidential mediation process focused on restoring Columbia Basin salmon. Following the first two of three publicly announced “listening sessions” and recent remarks by President Biden on restoring salmon in the Columbia Basin to “healthy and abundant” levels, the lawmakers have worked to ensure all stakeholders that utilize the Columbia-Snake River System have a voice in conversations about the future of the basin and river system. The Biden Administration has consistently failed to consult the individuals and families across Central Washington and the Pacific Northwest who rely on the Lower Snake River Dams for their livelihoods. Today’s letter is the lawmakers' latest effort to hold the Biden administration accountable to the agriculture, power, transportation, and many other stakeholders who rely on the benefits of the Lower Snake River dams for their livelihoods. In the letter to CEQ Chair Brenda Mallory, the lawmakers wrote: “We are writing to request information on the Council of Environmental Quality’s (CEQ) activities concerning the federal Columbia-Snake River System. On March 28, 2022, CEQ published a blog post entitled, ‘Columbia River Basin Fisheries: Working Together to Develop a Path Forward,’ in which CEQ indicated it had convened nation-to-nation consultation between federal agencies and leaders and representatives from the Tribes of the Columbia River Basin to discuss the impact of the Columbia-Snake River System on Pacific Salmon. The blog post also indicated the Biden administration had convened an interagency group to ‘identify a durable path forward that ensures a clean energy future, supports local and regional economies, and restores ecosystem function, while honoring longstanding commitments to Tribal Nations.’ “As part of this blog post, CEQ also announced it had engaged the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) to ‘facilitate a transparent and productive public policy dialogue with all of the sovereigns and stakeholders in the region,’ and further invited members of the public to share information using the email salmon@ceq.eop.gov. “In March 2023, after months of confidential mediation sessions involving the defendants and plaintiffs in National Wildlife Federation et al. v. National Marine Fisheries Service et al., FMCS, on behalf of CEQ, announced public listening sessions to provide members of the public an opportunity to share their thoughts and concerns about the future of the Columbia-Snake River System with representatives from the U.S. Government. The FMCS held two listening sessions, with a third scheduled for May 25, 2023. “To better understand CEQ’s actions and approach regarding public participation in developing a path forward for the Columbia-Snake River System, we request answers to the following questions: What is the purpose of the salmon@ceq.eop.gov inbox? Who monitors the inbox? How many comments has the inbox received? How many of the comments are distinct, substantive comments (versus mass comments using the same or similar templates)? How are these comments directed to the interagency group? How is the interagency group weighing these comments in the decisions it makes concerning the Columbia-Snake River System? Will these comments be formally incorporated into the FMCS mediation process? Will the comments be published in the Federal Register or other public forum? Which federal entity sponsored the March and April 2023 public listening sessions on the future of the Columbia-Snake River system? Did the sponsoring federal entity work with any other federal entities in planning the listening sessions? If so, which ones? What is the purpose of the public listening sessions? Are the public listening sessions part of the FMCS process? How were interested parties notified of the opportunity to participate in the public listening sessions? Did CEQ provide FMCS with any notification distribution lists to inform the public about the opportunity to participate in the listening sessions? If so, how were these lists developed? Please provide these distribution lists and the dates on which CEQ provided them to FMCS. How will input provided during the public listening sessions be weighed by the interagency group in the decisions it makes concerning the future of the Columbia-Snake River System? How were participants interested in speaking during the public listening sessions selected? Please provide the list of all participants who indicated they were interested in speaking. If listening session participants were interested in speaking but not selected for a speaking slot, will there be an opportunity for them to submit comments through another medium? How will those comments be incorporated into the FMCS process? Will those comments be weighed in the same manner as comments shared during the listening sessions? “We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to a prompt response.” The full letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-promote-all-above-energy-secure,"Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Promote “All-of-the-Above” Energy, Secure American Energy Independence",2023-04-28,2023,2023-04,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced a resolution to promote an “all of the above” energy plan as the most viable approach to American energy independence. “Central Washington is home to a diversified energy portfolio that provides safe, clean, and reliable energy for our communities,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The Biden Administration and far-left Democrats are forcing Americans to choose between traditional resources like oil and natural gas, and renewable resources like solar and wind. The truth is, we need both, including nuclear. An all-of-the-above energy strategy is the best approach for our energy security and independence. I will never stop fighting for the U.S. energy sector, defending our producers from wrongful attacks, and working to restore American energy independence. Central Washington depends on it.” Full text of the bill can be found here. Background: Original cosponsors of the legislation include: Reps. Amodei, Dusty Johnson, Obernolte, Fischbach, LaMalfa, Lesko, Valadao, Crawford, Zinke, Buschon, Moylan, Jackson, Fallon, Hageman, Barry Moore, Owens, Stauber, LaTurner, Adrian Smith, Mann, Miller-Meeks, Ellzey, Stewart, Lamborn, Carter, Issa, Estes, Duncan, Nehls, and Radewagen. Rep. Newhouse has been a strong leader for American energy independence in Congress. Here are some of the recent actions he has taken: Last month, Rep. Newhouse and his House colleagues passed H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act, which holds the Biden Administration responsible for its war on American energy independence and reverse course on radical policies to help drive down costs for Americans. On March 23, 2023, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Northwest Energy Security Actto protect the Four Lower Snake River Dams. The legislation supports the Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS) and the many benefits it brings to our region by improving and maintaining hydropower assets, ensuring operations throughout the system are conducted in accordance with the latest federal scientific review, and continuing to allow native salmon to recover at record rates. This Congress, Rep. Newhouse cosponsored the Protecting America’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) from China Act to prohibit direct or indirect SPR sales to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and strengthen American energy independence. Last year, Rep. Dan Newhouse and his House colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden urging the President to reverse his anti-American energy policies and issue a five-year offshore oil and natural gas leasing plan as is required under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OCSLA), after Interior Secretary Deb Haaland let the previous five-year plan expire.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-va-halting-electronic-health-record-system,Newhouse Statement on VA Halting the Electronic Health Record System,2023-04-21,2023,2023-04,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) issued the following statement in response to the announcement from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that future deployments of the Oracle Cerner Electronic Health Record (EHR) will be halted while the Department of VA prioritizes improvements at the five sites that currently use the new EHR, as part of a larger program reset, and additional deployments will not be scheduled until VA is confident that the new EHR is highly functioning at current sites and ready to deliver for veterans and VA clinicians at future sites: ""The rollout of the Oracle Cerner Electronic Health Record (EHR) system has been disastrous from the start and has put the health and safety of veterans at risk. I have seen the impacts firsthand at the Walla Walla medical center and the Richland clinic, and they are unacceptable,” said Rep. Newhouse. “While it took entirely too long for the Biden Administration to acknowledge and take action on their failure to our nation’s veterans, I am heartened to see them finally halt the rollout of the EHR system until the VA and Oracle Cerner take the necessary steps to ensure our nation’s veterans have the care and support they deserve. The facilities currently using the Oracle Cerner EHR, especially those in Central Washington, cannot be left behind."" Background: In February, Rep. Newhouse and House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL) introduced the VA Electronic Health Record Modernization Improvement Act, which would fix VA’s handling of the Oracle Cerner electronic health record (EHR) system and ultimately ensure that VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) are well-equipped to implement and use the new system, without hindering the delivery of care to veterans and hurting VA provider productivity levels. Last year, Rep. Newhouse sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Deputy Secretary calling on the VA to provide additional resources to help local medical centers manage the additional workload created by the failed implementation of the new electronic health record system.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-strengthen-agricultural-organic,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Agricultural Organic Research,2023-04-20,2023,2023-04,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Strengthening Organic Agricultural Research (SOAR) Act of 2023 alongside Reps. Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA). This legislation increases funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) flagship organic research program and supports applied research projects that solve critical problems and help farmers become more productive, efficient, and profitable. “Central Washington farmers are constantly innovating so they can provide their organic products to the world,” said Rep. Newhouse. “To continue to grow and prosper, it’s important they have the necessary resources to remain competitive. I am proud to introduce the Strengthening Organic Agriculture Research (SOAR) Act to ensure our farmers gain access to critical research programs that will help the organic industry meet the growing demand.” “Research plays a critical role in helping our farmers increase productivity and prevent loss. Additional research in organics is urgently needed as producers work to meet the growing demand for organics,” said Rep. Pingree. “The Strengthening Organic Agriculture Research Act would help ensure producers are equipped to tap into the full potential of the growing organic market. By increasing funding to reflect the industry’s growth and changing needs, this bipartisan bill will help maintain the organic industry’s momentum—benefiting our farmers, rural economies, and the environment.” “The dynamic and growing organic market, driven by producers in California’s 19th Congressional District, depends on new innovation to meet the growing demand in our country,” said Rep. Panetta. “The Strengthening Organic Agriculture Research (SOAR) Act expands federal organic research to empower organic producers with the latest tools, soil health and pest management, and other practices needed to remain competitive and successful. These breakthroughs are essential to continuing to foster the economic opportunity organic farms provide and increasing the accessibility of organic food for families across our country.” “We at OFRF are excited to see the investments made into actionable, high-impact research funded by NIFA for organic producers,” said Brise Tencer, Executive Director of Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF). “The policies in the SOAR Act provide research tools to farmers, but also market signals to early career researchers that organic agriculture research is a valued and important area of study, them to pursue organic agriculture research projects and expertise.” Full text of the bill can be found here. Background: The Strengthening Organic Agriculture Research (SOAR) Act will: Reauthorize the Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative (OREI) and increase funding through the life of the Farm Bill. Authorize competitive grant program for ORG transition, encourage partnerships with land grant universities for transition, and authorize appropriations for the grants. Require USDA-ERS to give Congress and the agricultural industry better organic production and market data, and authorize additional appropriations for the Organic Production and Market Data Initiatives (ODI).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-support-farmers,"Newhouse Introduces Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Support Farmers, Conservation",2023-04-19,2023,2023-04,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Conservation and Innovative Climate Partnership Act of 2023 alongside Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME). Companion legislation was also introduced in the Senate by Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mike Braun (R-IN), and Brian Schatz (D-HI). This bill will allocate funding for land-grant institutions to partner with local farmers to boost conservation and innovative climate practices. Farmers are already responsible stewards of the land, and this legislation empowers producers to voluntarily adopt practices that suit their individual needs while enabling the federal government to build on the successes already taking place in agricultural communities. ""There is no one who relies more on the prosperous and fruitful natural resources from our land and is dedicated to its safekeeping than our nation's farmers and ranchers. Indeed, they are the reason Central Washington is at the cutting edge of agricultural research and climate innovation,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I am proud to introduce the Conservation and Innovative Climate Partnership Act that will provide necessary resources to local producers, land-grant universities, USDA-NRCS, and local entities so we can continue to innovate for the conservation of our agricultural land.” “As a longtime farmer and member of the House Agriculture Committee, I know farmers are the key to meeting our climate goals. It’s essential that we actively enlist the help of those who know the land best—farmers, producers, ranchers, and forestland owners—to cut greenhouse gas emissions,” said Rep. Pingree. “The Conservation and Innovative Climate Partnership Act will bridge the gap between farmers and innovative research—boosting innovation, combating the climate crisis, and supporting successful food and agriculture systems.” “Our farmers are some of the best stewards of our lands, and despite decades of innovative land and water conservation efforts, they have only recently been brought into the climate conversation,” said Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES) President Heather Reams. “The Conservation and Innovative Climate Partnership Act will help connect farmers and ranchers with the tools they need to continue utilizing climate-smart practices, reducing carbon emissions and creating resilient environments. CRES applauds this bipartisan, bicameral effort to promote natural climate solutions that will mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure agriculture producers have a seat at the table."" Full text of the bill can be found here, and one-pager can be found here. Background: The Conservation and Innovative Climate Partnership Act of 2023, is the House companion to legislation introduced in the Senate by Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mike Braun (R-IN), and Brian Schatz (D-HI). This legislation would do the following: Enable partnerships between land-grant institutions and local farmers to increase uptake of conservation and innovative climate practices. Allow farmers to voluntarily adopt practices that suite their individualized needs. Require land-grant institutions to partner with a non-profit, state, or federal entity. Allow the partnership to conduct a variety of activities to support farming communities like workshops, distribution of digital materials, and tests to measure the effectiveness of conservation and climate smart practices. Provide $13 million in funding for 4-year grants, with a maximum grant of $400,000.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announces-submissions-community-project-funding-requests-0,Newhouse Announces Submissions of Community Project Funding Requests,2023-04-17,2023,2023-04,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced the Community Project Funding requests he has submitted to the House Committee on Appropriations for consideration. Project requests were submitted to Rep. Newhouse’s office and chosen for final submissions that best met the requirements and criteria of Community Project Funding, including community engagement and support. The requests Rep. Newhouse has submitted are below and on his website here. Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Astria Toppenish Hospital Behavioral Health Program The funding would be used to construct a new 14-bed civil commitment psychiatric unit and remodel an existing 15-bed civil commitment psychiatric unit to meet state construction review regulatory standards for a 90/180-day inpatient civil commitment beds. Once completed, the two units will meet all safety standards for court-ordered civilly committed patients, including anti-ligature safety standards. Both units will have a secured courtyard with a secure entrance to allow for discrete entry and separation from other hospital patients. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, 7 U.S. Code section 1926(a). This investment of $2.75 million in federal dollars will help deliver behavioral health treatment to those in Yakima County WA. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Adams County Law and Justice Facility Upgrade This project will upgrade the Adams County jail which has not been accepting prisoners, even for misdemeanor offenses, for several months. These funds would be a giant step towards making improvements to both the safety and efficiency of the jail and would expedite the hiring of the additional staff necessary to reopen a facility necessary to the public safety of Adams County. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, 7 U.S. Code section 1926(a). This investment of $2.6 million in federal dollars will help to alleviate serious public safety concerns in Adams County, WA. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Family Health Centers Okanogan County Dental Expansion Project This project will not only add general dentistry access to a dire unmet need, but it will also increase access to specialty dental services that currently patients forgo because of travel distances one and a half to two hours away. Too often this care is not completed or completely forgone because of lack of public transportation or people being place bound by poverty factors. Family Health Centers (FHC) is a nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center that offers primary and preventive health care for residents of Okanogan County and North Douglas County without regard to their ability to pay for care. Family Health Centers has medical services in six locations and dental services in four locations plus a mobile dental clinic. These communities are extremely rural and economically challenged. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, 7 U.S. Code section 1926(a). This investment of $2.5 million in federal dollars will help communities in Okanogan County receive better access to dental care. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Nespelem Community Longhouse This project will upgrade the Nespelem Community Longhouse would benefit the public and local Native American community by providing and making available a culturally appropriate multipurpose essential community facility (7 CFR § 3570.53) to use for communal and cultural events, including but not limited to funerals in the rural community of Nespelem, Washington. (7 Code of Federal Regulations § 3570.61 (b)). The project will address the need for a cultural appropriate physical location for the community to gather for events. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, 7 U.S. Code section 1926(a). This investment of $5 million in federal dollars will help public and community safety concerns in the Nespelem, WA community. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District Moses Lake Reduction of Harmful Algal Bloom This project will rehabilitate Moses Lake is a 6,800-acre lake located in central Washington. This lake has experienced poor water quality dating back to the 1960s. In recent years, as documented by various studies and the news media, Moses Lake has suffered from harmful algal blooms (HABs). The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Conservation Operations int the Soil Conservation and Domestic Allotment Act of 1935 (P.L. 74-46; 16 U.S.C. 590a-590f) and the Soil and Water Resources Conservation Act of 1977 (RCA) {16 U.S.C. 2001-2009) This investment of $4,995,000 million in federal dollars, will help public and community safety concerns in the Moses Lake, WA community. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Columbia River Section 120 Pinniped Removal Program The funding would be used for the Columbia River Section 120 Pinniped Removal Program. Since 2002, sea lions in the Columbia River have significantly impacted endangered and threatened stocks of salmon and steelhead. Sea lions also prey on mature sturgeon below Bonneville Dam and on listed salmon and steelhead runs in the Willamette River and other tributaries to the Columbia River. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized in the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. § 1451 et seq.). This investment of $5 million in federal dollars will help with the pinniped predation program, which serves as the single greatest mortality event for spring chinook. Impeding habituation of sea lions and subsequent predation is one of the key components to salmon and steelhead survival. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Homeland Security Yakima County Gap to Gap Protection Project The funding would be used to provide much longer-term flood hazard reduction by examining the causes of past levee failures and damage to critical infrastructure such as the City Wastewater Treatment Plant, I-82, and SR 24. Specifically, after plan implementation, the Base Flood Elevation at the WWTP will drop by 6.5 feet, which removes all of the plant's facilities from the 100-year floodplain. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by section 203 of the Stafford Act (42 U.S.C. 5133), as amended by Section 1234, National Public Infrastructure Pre-Disaster Hazard Mitigation, of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA) of 2018. This investment of $4 million in federal dollars, will help with the reductions in flood hazard benefit vulnerable populations south of SR 24 (which also come out of the floodplain) and interior to the Cities of Yakima and Union Gap. The project also provides additional recreational facilities adjacent to these communities and large areas of publicly accessible trees and riparian zones in the Yakima Greenway by restoring the Yakima Greenway Mainline trail, which connects Yakima and Union Gap. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Port of Mattawa Wastewater Infrastructure Improvement Project This project would begin work on a major expansion of our agricultural wastewater treatment system that has grown in statewide significance for the agricultural industry and more importantly as an economic engine for Mattawa, WA, a rural socioeconomically disadvantaged community (in central Washington) in which 98% of the students are minority and 92% qualify for free and reduced-price lunch. The Port of Mattawa's proposed Phase 5 wastewater treatment infrastructure expansion project would greatly expand capacity of the system, which will help to create more jobs and stimulate economic growth as it will allow for agricultural, food processing companies to continue to grow and hire more people in a disadvantaged Mattawa community. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Title VI of the Clean Water Act, 33 U.S.C 1381 et seq. The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds, because the Port of Mattawa’s original system is at-capacity and pushing the capabilities of this system (completed in 2008). In fact, recently the Port has had to limit users on the amount of wastewater they can send to the system, which restricts growth and production, and thus hurts job retention and creation, and economic development in the Mattawa community. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Goldendale Municipal Airport Project This project would make safety and capability improvements to provide safe operations, facilitate economic development opportunities, secure investment to establish hangar development, and generate sufficient revenue from leases and fuel sales with the goal of eventually making the operation of the airport revenue neutral for the city. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by 49 U.S.C. 47100 et seq. The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds, because it will make airport operation conditions safer by extending the runway from forty feet to sixty feet wide. Providing safer airport operation conditions will benefit the local community and its emergency response capabilities, such as medical air transportation, firefighting, FEMA, and Red Cross efforts. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Hood River – White Salmon Interstate Bridge Replacement Project This project would provide funding to replace the White Salmon Interstate Bridge. The funding is vital to the regional transportation network, public safety, environmental resilience, sustainability, and economy for the region as well as the states of Washington and Oregon. The 100-year-old existing bridge is nearing the end of its serviceable life and is functionally obsolete as its height, width, and weight restrictions fail to accommodate modern vehicles, and it constitutes a navigational hazard for marine freight vessels. The bridge has no sidewalks or bicycle lanes for nonmotorized active transportation and is highly vulnerable to seismic activity. This is the top priority project in the Klickitat County, Washington Regional Transportation Plan. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized in 23 USC 133. The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds, because it will create jobs, increase the resiliency and safety of the bi-state transportation network, improve competitiveness of U.S. exports, and increase tourism and recreational activities on and along the Columbia River and the agriculturally rich Hood River Valley. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter General Aviation Terminal Modernization at Pangborn Memorial Airport Project This project would modernize Pangborn’s General Aviation (GA) Terminal in order to provide space to accommodate departing and arriving GA passengers and crew, fixed-based operators, and a flight school, as well as administrative space for Regional Port staff. Modernizing the Pangborn General Aviation Terminal will increase tourism, access to education and enrich employment opportunities within the agricultural and technology industries, not currently feasible with the current condition of the General Aviation Terminal. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by 49 USC 47102(3)(N). The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds, because it will provide sufficient apron space for GA aircraft, ensuring aircraft are able to safely navigate the apron and taxiways upon arrival and departure. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter City of Pasco Algae Nitrogen Removal for Wastewater Treatment and Biofuel Project This project would be used to construct a biological nitrogen removal plant using algae technology as part of the PWRF phase 3 improvement project. These improvements will allow existing processors to expand their operations and allow the PWRF to received industrial wastewater. The City of Pasco is committed to upgrading its 25-year-old Process Water Reuse Facility (PWRF) to not only treat and dispose of hundreds of millions of additional gallons of industrial wastewater, but to also enter a new era of Industrial Symbiosis where the wastewater from the dairy and agricultural industry is converted into marketable renewable natural gas. This project will provide technical, high-level career opportunities and replace fossil-fuel based natural gas to significantly improve the environment. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by 42 U.S.C. 5305(a)(1) and 5305(a)(2). The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds, because it would play a crucial role in proliferating the clean energy legacy built by Hanford, as well as in achieving the State’s goal of net-zero emission energy sources by 2050 and promoting more resilient water reuse facilities. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Port of Quincy Rail Infrastructure Expansion Project This project would expand the rail infrastructure on the northeast side of Quincy, WA, both within the Port’s current rail terminal and to nearby industrial zoned properties in the Port District. The capacity, flexibility and efficiency of the facility would be greatly increased by creating new tracks to store in-coming empty rail cars and loaded cars ready for departure without obstructing the loading tracks. The ability to assemble longer loaded trains on Port property without obstructing the existing BNSF Mainline track is critical to expanding operations. The proposed design is intended to be easily expanded in the future, including a potential extension to the east across Road O NW, to serve industrial zoned properties in northeast Quincy. More importantly, the proposed rail infrastructure additions are necessary to help attract and accommodate large job-creating industrial, manufacturing and food processing projects that want to locate on the northeast side of Quincy, as well as to keep up with the increasing growth in ocean container freight going from the Port of Quincy to the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized in section 22907 of title 49 of the United States Code. The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds, because it will provide more freight mobility options to Pacific Northwest and Washington State agricultural and food shippers and exporters, attract industrial and manufacturing projects that will create family wage jobs, lessen wear and tear on freeways, highways and mountain passes by converting over-the-road freight to rail intermodal freight, and decrease fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter Port of Warden Truck Access and Bypass Road Project This project would build a truck access and bypass road to and from SR 170 and the Port-owned industrial zoned properties in southwest Warden, WA to help trucks bypass disadvantaged residential neighborhoods on that side of town and to help handle the increasing growth in freight from industrial, food processing and agricultural shippers. Additionally, this project will help the Port to build a truck bypass road so that trucks will not have to travel through socio-economically disadvantaged residential neighborhoods in Warden in the future. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized under 23 USC 133. The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds, because building a truck bypass and access road is critical for attracting large food processing projects, increasing safety for disadvantaged neighborhoods, as well as bringing more jobs and economic opportunities to the Warden community. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter City of Pateros Mall Revitalization Project This project would be used for revitalization of the Pateros Mall by providing infrastructure improvements, replacing water and sewer mains, and repairs to existing facilities. The project will help protect the source of drinking water and water quality of the Columbia River as well as improve structural integrity to the concrete walls of the facility. The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by U.S.C. 5305(a)(1), 5305(a)(2), and 5305(a)(4). The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds, because it is the community’s top priority, it will promote commerce, and improve opportunities and the economic vitality of the greater Pateros trade area. Member Financial Disclosure Certification Letter",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announces-2023-central-washington-congressional-art,Newhouse Announces 2023 Central Washington Congressional Art Competition,2023-04-03,2023,2023-04,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced the start of the annual Central Washington Congressional Art Competition. All high school students are eligible to participate. The winning entry will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol. “One of my favorite events of the year is the Congressional Art Competition,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Central Washington is full of young artistic talent, and I encourage all to participate. This is a great opportunity to showcase your skills for the whole country to see.” Image The Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students in Central Washington. All artwork must be submitted to one of Rep. Newhouse’s district offices by April 25, 2023. Office locations and contact information is listed below. In addition to being displayed in the U.S. Capitol, the winning artwork is also featured on the Congressional Art Competition page. Honorable mention winners will be invited to have their artwork hung in one of Rep. Newhouse’s district offices. The following is a summary of the Congressional Art Competition rules and submission deadlines: Artwork entered in the contest may be up to 26 inches by 26 inches, may be up to 4 inches in depth, and not weigh more than 15 pounds. If your artwork is selected as the winning piece, it must arrive framed and must still measure no larger than the above maximum dimensions. Paintings: Including oil, acrylics, and watercolor Drawings: Including pastels, colored pencil, pencil, charcoal, ink, and markers (It is recommended that charcoal and pastel drawings be fixed.) Collages: Must be two dimensional Prints: Including lithographs, silkscreen, and block prints Mixed Media: Use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor, etc. Computer-generated art Photography All entries must be original in concept, design, and execution and may not violate any U.S. copyright laws. Any entry that has been copied from an existing photo or image (including a painting, graphic, or advertisement) that was created by someone other than the student is a violation of the competition rules and will not be accepted. Work entered must be in the original medium (that is, not a scanned reproduction of a painting or drawing). All entries will need to fill out the online release form by the artist here. The honorable mention winners will hang in district offices in Yakima and Richland for the same duration of time as the 1st place winner’s entry. There is no limit to the number of students from one school that can submit a piece of art, but each student can only submit one entry. Please contact Paige Ash (Paige.Ash@mail.house.gov) with additional questions or to schedule a time for the artwork to be dropped off at one of Rep. Newhouse’s district offices. Tri-Cities District Office 3100 George Washington, Suite #130 Richland, WA 99354 Phone: (509) 713-7374 Yakima District Office 402 East Yakima Avenue, Suite #1000 Yakima, WA 98901 Phone: (509) 452-3243 North District: Okanogan and Douglas Counties Phone: (509) 433-7760",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-passes-legislation-lower-energy-costs-save-gas-stoves,"Newhouse Passes Legislation to Lower Energy Costs, Save Gas Stoves",2023-03-30,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and his House colleagues passed H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act. This legislation would hold the Biden Administration responsible for its war on American energy independence and reverse course on radical policies to help drive down costs for Americans. Rep. Newhouse also voted to pass an amendment to H.R. 1 that will prevent the Department of Energy from implementing strict new regulations that would outlaw most gas stoves on the market today. The amendment would prohibit the DOE from finalizing, implementing, administering, or enforcing the proposed energy conservation standard for cooking products. “The passage of H.R.1 will finally hold the Biden Administration responsible for its war on American energy and help drive down costs for the hardworking people of Central Washington, said Rep. Newhouse. “This legislation also includes an essential amendment to prohibit the DOE from implementing strict new regulations that would outlaw most gas stoves on the market today—a draconian measure that would be detrimental for families and small businesses across America, and could be deadly for rural communities like mine. Today is a win for Central Washington and the future of our energy independence.” “Any efforts to ban highly efficient natural gas stoves should raise alarm bells for the 187 million Americans who depend on this essential fuel every day. Natural gas utilities have reduced their greenhouse gas emissions by 69% since 1990, and help homeowners reduce their carbon emissions 1.2% every year. The use of natural gas has reduced power sector emissions to 40-year lows and, as an essential back up fuel, has enabled the growth of renewables. We will continue to work with regulators and policymakers to help ensure they have sound data to work with as they approach any issues related to natural gas.” – Karen Harbert, president and CEO of the American Gas Association “What and how a restaurant prepares its menu are the soul of its business. More than 3 in 4 restaurant kitchens use natural gas to cook, so it’s easy to understand how banning gas stoves used in commercial kitchens could be devastating to the industry. Restaurant owners should have the option to choose the cooking element that best serves their cuisine.” – National Restaurant Association “The proposed DOE standard is not reasonable. A reasonable energy conservation standard for cooking products would not eliminate or reduce cooking features that consumers desire and have grown accustomed to using. AHAM supports a reasonable energy standard, but people should be free to choose what cooking products they prefer in their homes - whether it be gas or electric - and a range of products should be available to consumers that include different features. The home appliance manufacturing industry has strongly supported the Department of Energy (DOE) Appliance Standards Program since it was authorized by Congress in 1975, but this proposal as well as other recent proposed standards are unreasonable.” – Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) Read the full text of H.R. 1 here. Background: Earlier this week, Rep. Newhouse questioned Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm about the Administration’s proposed gas stoves ban. Watch her response here. Below are the correct numbers which Secretary Granholm failed to address: In early February, DOE published a Supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (SNOPR) and Technical Support Document (TSD) regarding energy conservation standards for consumer conventional cooking products. In the SNOPR and TSD, DOE estimated only 4% of gas stove tops on the market met the proposed maximum rate (1,204 kBtu/yr) meaning 96% failed (See TSD, Ch. 8, Tbl. 8.2.43.) DOE released a Notification of Data Availability (NODA) in late February, after publishing their SNOPR and TSD, explaining they excluded gas stove tops which did not have one high input rate burner and continuous cast iron grate. Therefore, the TSD did not include lower-end/baseline gas cooktops without the more desirable features that many higher-end models have. Earlier this month, Rep. Newhouse joined several dozen House colleagues in sending a letter to DOE Secretary Granholm expressing opposition to finalizing the proposed rule. At a recent House Appropriations Energy & Water Subcommittee hearing, Rep. Newhouse asked Secretary Granholm about these findings and inquired as to why DOE initiated this proposed ruling for the first time and whether or not DOE has engaged stakeholders. Secretary Granholm responded saying the 96% statistic was incorrect because DOE chose a test group of gas stoves which were most likely to be impacted – higher-end stoves. She said 50% of the gas stoves on the market wouldn’t be impacted based on the NODA data. DOE’s estimates are consistently changing. Anywhere between 50-96% of the gas stove top models currently in the marketplace would be incompliant with the proposed maximum rate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-biden-backs-tearing-down-columbia-snake-river-dams-contrary,"ICYMI: Biden Backs Tearing Down Columbia, Snake River Dams Contrary to Scientific Assessment",2023-03-24,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, President Biden announced this week that he is committed to tearing down four hydropower dams in Washington. President Biden’s remarks are the first time he has publicly sided himself with advocates for breaching the Four Lower Snake River Dams—a move that would go against scientific assessments from the federal government itself. These dams provide clean, renewable, safe, and affordable energy for homes and businesses in Central Washington and beyond. Breaching the dams would have a dramatic impact on energy production, climate goals, and transportation in Washington. “The Four Lower Snake River Dams are integral to flood control, navigation, irrigation, agriculture, and recreation in Central Washington and throughout the Pacific Northwest—to put it simply, we cannot afford to lose them,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Yet President Biden, Governor Inslee, Senator Murray, and Representative Simpson have been misleading the American people with unscientific information in order to breach these dams, putting our communities at risk. We know the critical infrastructure of the Snake River Dams provides clean, renewable, safe, and affordable energy for our homes and businesses, and the best and latest science affirms we should continue to utilize them. The Northwest Energy Security Act will ensure our dams can continue to provide the carbon-free baseload energy our communities rely on while continuing to support fish recovery efforts.” Read the full story from Fox News here, or find excerpts below. Image Biden Considering Tearing Down Key Green Energy Over Eco Concerns Thomas Catenacci Fox News March 24, 2023 President Biden announced this week that he is committed to working with lawmakers who have backed tearing down four hydropower dams in Washington to protect salmon species. Biden remarked during a conservation event Tuesday that he would work with tribes, Sens. Patty Murray, D-Wash., Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., and Rep. Mike Simpson, R-Idaho, to ""bring healthy and abundant salmon runs back"" to the Columbia River system. The president didn't say he would work with lawmakers or industry groups that have adamantly opposed breaching the dams. Over the last several years — amid declining salmon populations in the lower Snake River which winds through Idaho and southwestern Washington before feeding into the Columbia River which, in turn, feeds into the Pacific Ocean — Murray and Cantwell have opened the door to proposals breaching four federally-managed dams in the river system. And Simpson has gone further, crafting a $33.5 billion framework endorsed by tribes to breach the dams. ""There are several major problems with glibly saying 'we're going to destroy the dams,'"" said Todd Myers, the environmental director for the free market think tank Washington Policy Center. ""The first is that it is contrary to the science. The Army Corps of Engineers, NOAA Fisheries and others did the most comprehensive scientific assessment of the dams ever a few years ago. And it concluded very clearly that we should keep the dams and that salmon can recover with the dams."" ""The Biden administration is going against the most comprehensive scientific assessment done by the federal government itself,"" Myers continued. Myers — who is also a member of the Puget Sound Salmon Recovery Council, a state agency created to study and inform government efforts to restore dwindling salmon — added that breaching the four lower Snake River dams would be a ""remarkable waste"" of tens of billions of dollars considering the relatively minor impact such a project would have on the species. In addition, multiple government and private reports have determined that breaching the dams would have a dramatic impact on energy production, climate goals and transportation in Washington. … ""Hydropower is a climate solution, and it will play a key role in helping the President achieve the goal of a zero-carbon electricity grid,"" LeRoy Coleman, a spokesperson for the National Hydropower Association, told Fox News Digital. ""Climate change poses the greatest threat of extinction to salmon, while hydro is carbon-free resource to fighting climate change."" ""Breaching dams on the Lower Snake River would be a step backwards in the effort to retire and replace existing carbon emitting plants,"" Coleman added. ""Removing 3,000 MW of dispatchable hydropower capacity during the middle of a climate crisis isn’t the solution."" Removing the dams would chip away at U.S. climate goals since their energy production would likely need to be replaced by fossil fuel alternatives. According to federal data, replacing the hydropower with efficient natural gas generation would increase carbon emissions by up to 2.6 million metric tons per year, the equivalent of 421,000 passenger cars. … ""The environmental impact of such a drastic increase cannot be overstated – and I sincerely and fundamentally struggle to understand how our friends in the environmental community can hear this data and not be truly alarmed,"" Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., who has opposed breaching the dams, one of which is located in his district, said in 2021. … On Thursday, the two lawmakers introduced legislation, the Northwest Energy Security Act, to protect the four dams which could only be breached through an act of Congress. Sens. Steve Daines, R-Mont., and James Risch, R-Idaho, introduced companion legislation in the Senate. In addition to the impacts on energy and climate ambitions, industry groups said removing the four dams would disrupt the economy and harm agriculture exports. ""To suggest breaching the dams is to suggest jeopardizing that stability and the security we have in our economy,"" Washington Farm Bureau President Rosella Mosby told Fox News Digital. ""Moving agricultural products via barge utilizes the most carbon friendly means of transportation while also supporting critical infrastructure."" ""Washington Farm Bureau would encourage the President to give these impacts thoughtful consideration before making decisions with real life consequences for farmers, ranchers, and the environment,"" Mosby added. She noted that her group support policies ensuring an effective means of transporting agricultural goods, electrifying homes and conserving salmon runs. Dams, Mosby said, are the answer to ensuring the stability and success of all three. Aided by the dams, barges traveling through the Columbia River system transport about 60% of Washington annual wheat exports. A staggering 40% of the nation's total wheat production, valued at billions of dollars, travels through the river system. ""Over 60% of Washington wheat exports utilize the Columbia-Snake River System, which is essential for supporting a thriving overseas export market along with providing nearly 4,000 jobs,"" said Michelle Hennings, the executive director of the Washington Association of Wheat Growers. ""As a result, the breaching of critical dam infrastructure would threaten the viability of the Washington wheat industry and would cause greater adverse impact on the economy and the food supply chain as a whole."" ""We have the utmost concern for the health of the ecosystem and believe that dams and a thriving salmon population can and do co-exist,"" she continued. ""We stand ready to continue to work with the Administration and members of Congress to ensure that decisions are made through sound science and extensive research."" And, according to Washington Grain Commission CEO Casey Chumrau, the river system feeds the largest U.S. wheat export gateway. ""Our nation’s inland waterways system is vital to moving American goods from farms to ports for export,"" Chumrau told Fox News Digital. ""As the nation’s single largest wheat export gateway — supporting 40,000 jobs — more than half of all wheat exported from the U.S. moves through the lower Columbia-Snake River ports in Washington and Oregon, making it a crucial part of the U.S. economy and an irreplicable part of the global supply chain.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-legislation-protect-parents-educational-rights-passes-house,Newhouse Legislation to Protect Parents’ Educational Rights Passes House,2023-03-24,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"March 24, 2023 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and his House colleagues passed H.R. 5, the Parents Bill of Rights Act. This legislation would put practices in place that facilitate meaningful dialog between a family and their child's school and lead to more parental input throughout the learning process. It amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to ensure that federally-funded schools provide parents with the transparency they deserve. ""Parents know what's best for their children and are their greatest advocates. Ensuring they have a say in their child's education is just common-sense,"" said Rep. Newhouse. ""I'm proud to see the passage of this critical legislation that will provide families with more options to collaborate with school districts, have more access to information regarding their children's education, and ultimately provide a better curriculum and learning experience for our next generation of leaders."" Read the full text of the bill here. Background: The legislation is built on five, common-sense principles. Parents have the right to know what their children are being taught. School districts must post curriculum information publicly. States must provide the public a copy of any revisions to the state's academic standards or learning benchmarks. Parents must be given timely notice of any school's plan to eliminate gifted and talented programs. Schools must provide parents with a list of books and reading materials available in the school library. Parents have the right to be heard. Teachers must offer two in-person meetings with parents each year. Parents must be allowed to address the school board on issues impacting the education of children in the school district. Educators and policymakers must respect the First Amendment right of parents as well as their right to assemble and have a say in their child's education. School districts should consider community feedback when making decisions. Parents have the right to see the school budget and spending. There must be public disclosure of school district budgets and each school's budget, including revenues and expenditures. Parents have the right to protect their child’s privacy. Schools must not share student data with tech companies without parental permission. Schools must not sell student data for commercial purposes. Parents have a say when schools develop or update their student privacy policies and procedures. Parents must consent before any medical exam takes place at school, including mental health or substance use disorder screenings, and before students are surveyed. Parents have the right to keep their children safe. Schools must notify parents of violent activity occurring on school grounds or at school-sponsored events while still protecting the privacy of the students involved in the incident. ### Issues: Education",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-bill-protect-four-lower-snake-river-dams-clean-0,"Newhouse Introduces Bill to Protect Four Lower Snake River Dams, Clean Energy, Jobs, and Transportation in the Pacific Northwest",2023-03-23,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) introduced the Northwest Energy Security Act to protect the Four Lower Snake River Dams. Senators Jim Risch (ID) and Steve Daines (MT) introduced a companion bill in the Senate. The legislation supports the Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS) and the many benefits it brings to our region by improving and maintaining hydropower assets, ensuring operations throughout the system are conducted in accordance with the latest federal scientific review, and continuing to allow native salmon to recover at record rates. This legislation is especially important given Tuesday’s announcement from President Biden about the Columbia and Snake Rivers at the Conservation in Action 2023 Summit. “The Four Lower Snake River Dams are integral to flood control, navigation, irrigation, agriculture, and recreation in Central Washington and throughout the Pacific Northwest—to put it simply, we cannot afford to lose them,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Yet President Biden, Governor Inslee, Senator Murray, and Representative Simpson have been misleading the American people with unscientific information in order to breach these dams, putting our communities at risk. We know the critical infrastructure of the Snake River Dams provides clean, renewable, safe, and affordable energy for our homes and businesses, and the best and latest science affirms we should continue to utilize them. The Northwest Energy Security Act will ensure our dams can continue to provide the carbon-free baseload energy our communities rely on while continuing to support fish recovery efforts.” “I am growing increasingly concerned about President Biden’s openness to breaching our dams,” said Rep. Rodgers. “From his administration’s recommendation to rip them out – without any scientific evidence to back it up – to his desire to work with anti-dam advocates, it’s clear our dams are in danger. This legislation would help save them by focusing on facts and results. It’s time to recognize that salmon runs are improving at record rates thanks to our mitigation efforts and positive ocean conditions, and that the dams provide clean and reliable energy that powers our homes and businesses. That’s something worth protecting.” “A comprehensive, scientific process made clear dam breaching on the lower Snake River is completely unnecessary and unwarranted,” said Senator Risch. “With the Northwest Energy Security Act, Congress will ensure the Columbia River Power System continues to provide reliable and clean energy and supports the region’s transportation, agriculture, and irrigation needs. I remain adamantly opposed to breaching the dams.” “Breaching dams is the last thing we should be doing,"" said Senator Daines. ""The Columbia River System provides clean, reliable baseload power and we should be supporting and expanding hydropower throughout the United States, not removing affordable energy supply for Montanans.” “Contrary to the predictions of those who want to destroy the Snake River dams, last year saw a big increase in Spring/Summer wild Chinook. The most comprehensive scientific review of Snake River salmon by the federal government shows that the dams and salmon can coexist. The dams provide funding for salmon habitat, hatchery production, clean energy for an electrified future, and economic prosperity. Spending tens of billions of dollars to needlessly destroy dams is not only wasteful, but fixating on the Snake River wastes resources that could be used to improve salmon runs across the Pacific Northwest,” said Todd Myers, Environmental Director, Washington Policy Center. “The Columbia and Snake Rivers are a critical marine highway that connects our region to the world. The dams on these waterways allow our PNW- grown wheat to get to market in the most reliable and efficient way possible. We deeply appreciate the work of Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers, Senator Risch and other supporters of this legislation, as it recognizes the significance of our dams and the benefits they provide to the region and nation, and that river commerce and healthy, robust fish runs can continue to co-exist,” said Rob Rich, Shaver Transportation and Co-Chair, Inland Ports and Navigation Group (IPNG). “The four lower Snake River dams provide numerous benefits that are critically important to the Tri-Cities, the Pacific Northwest and the entire nation. In addition to the clean energy generation, navigation and irrigation they provide, the groundbreaking technologies at these dams provide some of the best fish passage in the country. Congressman Newhouse’s introduction of this legislation helps to ensure that these dams will continue to be an asset for decades to come, and we sincerely appreciate his steadfast support for the dams and the many communities that depend on them,” said David Reeploeg, Vice President for Federal Programs, Tri-City Development Council (TRIDEC). “The Washington Grain Commission supports continued efforts to maintain the Snake River dams as an essential piece of the larger Columbia River System. Washington farmers rely on the river system to transport more than half of the state’s wheat and access overseas export markets. Barging is the most environmentally sound and economically viable mode of transportation in the region and critical to the competitiveness of Washington farmers,” said Casey Chumrau, CEO, Washington Grain Commission. “The Lower Snake River Dams importance to the Columbia Basin goes far beyond the economical clean power production, navigation, irrigation, flood control, and recreation they provide. They are also critical to the area economy; directly and indirectly responsible for providing thousands of jobs. From power trades, contractor and marine vessel employees to those in the agricultural, service and tourism fields, our region cannot afford to lose a major contributor to our economic system. Our organization strongly supports Congressman Newhouse and legislation to protect the hydropower system,” said Jack W. Heffling, President, United Power Trades Organization. “The Snake River dams are vital to Washington’s wheat growers. Scientific evidence conducted by the U.S. government has proven that removing the Snake River dams goes against environmental statutes and public interests. Washington Wheat growers support any efforts that ensure the dams continue to operate as an integral part of the Columbia River System,” said Michelle Hennings, Executive Director, Washington Association of Wheat Growers. “The importance of the four lower Snake River dams to our region’s farmers and rural communities for both transportation and energy production cannot be overstated. The science is clear that salmon and dams can co-exist, and therefore we support the Northwest Energy Security Act. The members of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation thank the sponsors of the bill,” said Bryan Searle, President, Idaho Farm Bureau Federation. This legislation is endorsed by the Washington Policy Center, Inland Ports and Navigation Group (IPNG), Tri-Cities Development Council (TRIDEC), United Power Trades Organization, Washington Grain Commission, WA Wheat Growers, and Idaho Farm Bureau. Click here to read the full text of the bill. Background: The Northwest Energy Security Act directs the Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS) to be operated in alignment with the 2020 “Columbia River System Operations Environmental Impact Statement Record of Decision.” In September 2020, the “Columbia River System Operations Environmental Impact Statement Record of Decision” for the Columbia River System Operation Environmental Impact Statement (CRSO EIS) published by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and Bonneville Power Administration, found that the Lower Snake River Dams should not be breached. Rather, efforts should be focused on improving and maintaining hydropower assets while working to improve salmon passage and conditions. In May 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray publicly rebuked plans to breach the Lower Snake River Dams. On October 15, 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray announced plans to assess the breaching of the Lower Snake River Dams. On October 21, 2021, the Department of Justice announced a settlement reached between the CRSO EIS plaintiffs and federal agencies on injunctive relief, including a stay on the CRSO EIS litigation until July 2022. On October 22, 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray announced next steps to deliver a report intended to justify breaching the Lower Snake River Dams by July 2022. Reps. Newhouse, McMorris Rodgers, and Jaime Herrera Beutler released a joint statement reacting to the announcement. Read more here. In June 2022, Rep. Newhouse led Congressional Western Caucus Members from across the United States on a field tour of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, including a tour of the Ice Harbor Dam. Learn more here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-slams-biden-announcement-columbia-and-snake-rivers,Newhouse Slams Biden Announcement on Columbia and Snake Rivers,2023-03-21,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"March 21, 2023 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, during a speech at the Conservation in Action 2023 Summit, President Biden stated he would return “healthy and abundant salmon runs back to the Colorado River [Columbia and Snake Rivers],” throwing his support behind radical dam-breaching activists. Rep. Dan Newhouse’s (R-WA) statement on this announcement is below: “President Biden’s inability to even get the name of the river system that powers, waters, and feeds our communities right proves he is the last person who should be making decisions that impact the men and women of Central Washington and the entire Pacific Northwest. Salmon returns are higher than they’ve been in years, proving the hard work our fish biologists, local conservation partners, tribal neighbors, and federal agencies have been conducting is working. President Biden is perpetuating a dangerous, false narrative with the help of Senators Murray and Cantwell and Representative Simpson and they should be ashamed of themselves. “Congress alone has the authority to maintain or breach these dams, and I will continue to work in Congress on effective, science-based solutions to protecting our salmon populations while maintaining our powerful hydroelectric dams. Because salmon and dams DO coexist, and to say otherwise is dishonest.” Background: Rep. Newhouse has been a strong and vocal advocate for protecting the Lower Snake River Dams: Last year, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Federal Columbia River Power System Certainty Act, to support the Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS) and the many benefits it brings to our region by improving and maintaining hydropower assets, ensuring operations throughout the system are conducted in accordance with the latest federal scientific review, and continuing to allow native salmon to recover at record rates. In August 2022, Rep. Newhouse and members of the Pacific Northwest delegation called out the Biden Administration in a series of letters for its lack of transparency and political intervention in its efforts to breach the Lower Snake River Dams. On August 1, 2022, Rep. Newhouse brought together over 100 community members to rally in support of the Lower Snake River Dams. In September 2020, the “Columbia River System Operations Environmental Impact Statement Record of Decision” for the Columbia River System Operation Environmental Impact Statement (CRSO EIS) published by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and Bonneville Power Administration, found that the Lower Snake River Dams should not be breached. Rather, efforts should be focused on improving and maintaining hydropower assets while working to improve salmon passage and conditions. In May 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray publicly rebuked plans to breach the Lower Snake River Dams. On October 15, 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray announced plans to assess the breaching of the Lower Snake River Dams. On October 21, 2021, the Department of Justice announced a settlement reached between the CRSO EIS plaintiffs and federal agencies on injunctive relief, including a stay on the CRSO EIS litigation until July 2022. On October 22, 2021, Governor Inslee and Senator Murray announced next steps to deliver a report intended to justify breaching the Lower Snake River Dams by July 2022. Reps. Newhouse, McMorris Rodgers, and Jaime Herrera Beutler released a joint statement reacting to the announcement. Read more here. In March, Rep. Newhouse and PNW lawmakers demanded answers from ten federal agencies involved in the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ)’s exploration of plans to breach the Lower Snake River dams. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-slams-doe-anti-gas-appliance-rule,Newhouse Slams DOE Anti-Gas Appliance Rule,2023-03-21,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and 24 of his colleagues demanded answers from the Department of Energy (DOE) regarding their proposed anti-gas appliances rule. The letter, sent to DOE Secretary Jennifer Granholm, expresses deep concern about the new proposed anti-gas appliance rule. This proposed rule would require, for the first time ever, an energy performance standard for residential cooktops, which would eliminate 95% of today’s gas appliances. “The proposed rule is a blatant back door attempt to ban gas appliances enjoyed by millions of Americans. Your attempt to ban gas appliances has no basis in law or within your jurisdiction,” wrote the lawmakers. They continued, “The Department is justifying this proposed requirement based on an estimated savings to the consumer for gas cooktops of only $21.89 over 14.5 years, which equates to a mere $1.50/year or 12 cents/month. These are not savings American consumers will be willing to trade for decreased features and functionality associated with meeting DOE’s overly stringent proposed standards.” The lawmakers concluded, “We request that DOE not finalize this proposed rule or one that is substantially similar to it so that consumer can continue to have a broad choice of a full range of reasonably priced and fully functional and featured gas or electric cooktops.” You can read the full letter here and below. Dear Secretary Granholm, We are alarmed about and have significant concerns with the Department of Energy’s (“DOE”) recently released proposed rule that would require, for the first time, an energy performance standard for residential cooktops. The Department should not finalize this proposed rule. (Federal Register Number 2023-00610) The proposed rule is a blatant back door attempt to ban gas appliances enjoyed by millions of Americans. Your attempt to ban gas appliances has no basis in law or within your jurisdiction. The Department of Energy has enjoyed bipartisan support, your actions to appease the Biden Administration’s radical climate agenda does not reflect well upon the Department. The Department’s supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (“SNOPR”) proposes energy conservation standards for consumer conventional cooking product applying the most stringent maximum energy consumption requirement for gas cooktops, which DOE admits is at the maximum technologically feasible (“max-tech”) level. For gas cooking tops, the SNOPR proposes a maximum efficiency level of 1,204 kBtu/yr, which, based on DOE’s own analysis, represents only 4% of market share today and excludes all conventional free stand ranges. Setting a requirement at max-tech, which has not been done for home appliances ever, and that causes 96% of the products available today to be eliminated from the market is an extreme regulation. Although we understand that DOE’s proposed rule does not explicitly ban all gas products, it is clear that the proposal, if finalized, would have the impact of eliminating the vast majority gas products of the type that are available today. Indeed, under DOE’s own analysis it would eliminate 100% of gas freestanding ranges, by far the most common gas cooking product in American homes. The design changes DOE expects manufacturers to make are not likely to be acceptable to consumers, such as smaller burners and longer cooking times as well as smaller grates that could be less stable. Further, DOE has not demonstrated that its proposed design changes are possible for products outside of the niche market of 36” wide countertop mounted cooktops. Yet the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975, as amended (“EPCA”) prohibits DOE from using standards to eliminate products with features that are substantially the same as those available on the market today. 42 U.SC. 6295 (o)(4) The EPCA prescribes energy conservation standards for various consumer products and certain commercial and industrial equipment, including consumer conventional cooking products. The EPCA also requires DOE to periodically determine whether more stringent standards would be technologically feasible and economically justified, and would result in significant energy savings. The law does not require DOE to set a performance standard or amend standards, just to review whether existing standards should be amended based on the EPCA’s criteria. Since 1990, DOE has twice reviewed and decided not to set energy conservation standards requirements for cooktops beyond the current prescriptive design criteria, which ban constant burning pilot lights for gas products. These reviews occurred in 1998 (President Clinton) and 2009 (President Obama). And in 2020 (President Trump), DOE proposed again not to amend standards. Incredibly, DOE’s present proposal to eliminate almost all gas cooktops currently on the market is based on data that is not much different than that DOE relied on to support its 2020 proposal not to establish standards for cooktops. Further, the Department is justifying this proposed requirement based on an estimated savings to the consumer for gas cooktops of only $21.89 over 14.5 years, which equates to a mere $1.50/year or 12 cents/month. These are not savings American consumers will be willing to trade for decreased features and functionality associated with meeting DOE’s overly stringent proposed standards. More importantly, these alleged cost savings do not account for the cost to convert homes from gas cooking to electric cooking, which can cost thousands of dollars per home. We request that DOE not finalize this proposed rule or one that is substantially similar to it so that consumer can continue to have a broad choice of a full range of reasonably priced and fully functional and featured gas or electric cooktops.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-holds-central-washington-farm-bill-tour,Newhouse Holds Central Washington Farm Bill Tour,2023-03-17,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"YAKIMA, WA – This week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) traveled across Central Washington to meet with farmers, ranchers, and producers in the agriculture industry to discuss their priorities for this year’s Farm Bill. He held roundtables in Quincy, Yakima, Sunnyside, Goldendale, and Tri-Cities. Click here for more photos of Rep. Newhouse’s Farm Bill tour. “This week, I traveled up and down Central Washington to speak with farmers and ranchers about their priorities for this year’s Farm Bill,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Our nation’s producers provide the food, fiber, and fuel we use every day and we must do everything we can so the agriculture industry will continue to thrive for generations to come. I am committed to passing a Farm Bill that will help rural communities like Central Washington thrive and strengthen the future of American farmers who are struggling with high input costs, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions that are challenging their ability to make ends meet.” Background: The Farm Bill is a legislative package that is passed roughly every five years that covers agricultural programs such as crop insurance, research, conservation, rural development, and energy to provide farmers ranchers, and producers the essential resources they need to feed America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-holds-roundtable-fentanyl-crisis-legislation-holding-dealers,"Newhouse Holds Roundtable on Fentanyl Crisis, Legislation Holding Dealers Accountable",2023-03-16,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"YAKIMA, WA – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) held a roundtable at the Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce to discuss the fentanyl crisis plaguing our communities and his new legislation, the William and James Wonacott Act of 2023. He was joined by Andrew and Brandi Wonacott, other parents of fentanyl victims from Central Washington, members of law enforcement, medical professionals, and community leaders who are all on the frontlines fighting the fentanyl crisis. Click here for photos of the roundtable. Click here for the full video of the roundtable. “The fentanyl crisis has impacted far too many families in our communities, just like the Wonacott family,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Thank you to Andrew and Brandi for reaching out to me to bring awareness to this issue, and for being a strong voice for their two sons. To honor William and James, this crucial legislation will hold dealers and distributors accountable. Together, we can bring forth real solutions to confront the fentanyl crisis that is plaguing every corner of our communities.” “The time is right to take action on the fentanyl crisis as it continues to be a huge impact to families and loved ones who have lost someone to a fentanyl-related overdose,” said Andrew and Brandi Wonacott, parents of William and James. “When this legislation becomes law and saves one family from the hurt and grief Brandi and I have had to endure, it is worth it. Thank you to Dan Newhouse’s efforts on this crisis. We are hopeful that Congress passes this legislation quickly with bi-partisan support. Our nation cannot wait anymore, and we must act and do something now to stop this poison from taking a generation from our families.” ""Yakima County is in the midst of a fentanyl crisis,” said Yakima County Sheriff Robert Udell. “The easily attainable drug is found in inexpensive pill-form and mixed into other illegal narcotics. Young people find it easy to find, and the result is dozens of opioid deaths a year just in Yakima County. We must act now to limit the availability of this dangerous drug, and Rep. Newhouse’s bill is one of the ways to do so. His proposal to enact significant mandatory penalties on those who sell fentanyl, often causing deaths, is an excellent way to protect people of all ages. I enthusiastically support Rep. Newhouse’s bill on penalties for fentanyl dealers.” ""Public safety should be the first priority of any government and people should be able to safely send their children to school and raise their families without fear,” said Jeremy Takala, Yakama Nation Tribal Councilman and Chairman of the Council’s Law and Order Committee. “I thank Congressman Newhouse for working to provide much-needed resources to law enforcement officers, including the recently passed Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement legislation, and urge that more resources be provided for an enhanced police response to the Fentanyl epidemic.” Background: TheWilliam and James Wonacott Act, introduced by Rep. Newhouse on March 14, 2023, is named after two young men from Yakima who lost their lives to products laced with illicit fentanyl. James Wonacott, 30, passed away in November 2022 and was known as a loving and involved member of the Yakima community. Less than one year later, James’ younger brother, William Wonacott, fell victim to the same fate. A United States Air Force veteran and husband, William was only 27 years old when he passed. The bill would define federal punishments by making selling, giving, or distributing equivalent to first-degree murder, including provisions to do the following: Enhances penalties for those who sell, give, or distribute illicit fentanyl-related substances. These actions will result in a minimum of twenty years with possibility of life. Enhances penalties if the selling, giving, or distributing results in death. These lethal actions will result in a minimum of twenty-five years with possibility of life. Rep. Newhouse has been a leader in confronting the opioid crisis during his time in Congress, taking the following actions to combat trafficking of deadly substances, expand treatment opportunities, and secure our southern border: Earlier this year, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act, or Safe Act of 2023. The legislation permanently schedules all current and future fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs, to ensure law enforcement can continue to prosecute the sale and use of these substances. On December 20, 2022, Rep. Newhouse and Rep. Pappas reintroduced their legislation to extend the emergency scheduling of fentanyl analogues through December 31, 2024, which became law through the government funding package that was passed by Congress. In March, 2022 Rep. Newhouse introduced the Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act of 2022, or SAFE Act of 2022. The legislation permanently schedules all current and future fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs, to ensure law enforcement can continue to prosecute the sale and use of these substances. On February 10, 2022, Rep. Newhouse sent a letter to President Biden urging his Administration take immediate action on the influx of fentanyl streaming into our country by securing our borders and making fentanyl-related substances’ Schedule 1 classification permanent to ensure law enforcement can continue to prosecute the sale and use of these substances. On February 8, 2022, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Dignity Act, which restarts all currently paused border infrastructure contracts and increases funding for physical border infrastructure. On February 3, 2022, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Law Enforcement Officers Preventing (Drug) Abuse Related Deaths or LEOPARD Act. This bill authorizes rural community response pilot grant programs to allow state and local law enforcement agencies to purchase naloxone, an effective tool to prevent and reduce opioid overdose deaths and directs at least 50% of the programs’ grant funding to rural communities. On March 2, 2022, Rep. Newhouse cosponsored the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act or the HALT Fentanyl Act. This bill places fentanyl-related substances as a class into schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. In 2016, Rep. Newhouse voted in favor of the bipartisan 21st Century CURES Act, which increased state grants for treatment from $500 million to $1.5 billion. Half of those grants were made available in 2017, and the next half in 2018. In 2016, Rep. Newhouse supported the House passage of H.R. 5046, the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Reduction Act of 2016 and 17 bills to address the national opioid abuse crisis. H.R. 5046 combats the opioid epidemic by establishing a streamlined, comprehensive opioid abuse grant program that encompasses a variety of new and existing programs, such as vital training and resources for first responders and law enforcement, criminal investigations for the unlawful distribution of opioids, drug courts, and residential substance abuse treatment. The bill authorizes $103 million annually for the grant program and is fully offset for cut-go purposes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-combat-fentanyl-honor-two-sons,"Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Combat Fentanyl, Honor Two Sons",2023-03-15,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the William and James Wonacott Act of 2023, named after Andrew Wonacott of Yakima’s two sons who succumbed to fentanyl, to combat this deadly epidemic. The legislation will enhance penalties for those who sell, give, or distribute any substance that contains two milligrams or more of illicit fentanyl or fentanyl-related substances to another person without their knowledge. “The fentanyl crisis has impacted far too many families in our communities, just like the Wonacott family,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Thank you to Andrew and Brandi for reaching out to me to bring awareness to this issue, and for being a strong voice for their two sons. To honor William and James, this crucial legislation will hold dealers and distributors accountable. Together, we can bring forth real solutions to confront the fentanyl crisis that is plaguing every corner of our communities.” Read the Fox News exclusive on the legislation here. “The time is right to take action on the fentanyl crisis as it continues to be a huge impact to families and loved ones who have lost someone to a fentanyl-related overdose,” said Andrew and Brandi Wonacott, parents of William and James. “When this legislation becomes law and saves one family from the hurt and grief Brandi and I have had to endure, it is worth it. Thank you to Dan Newhouse’s efforts on this crisis. We are hopeful that Congress passes this legislation quickly with bi-partisan support. Our nation cannot wait anymore, and we must act and do something now to stop this poison from taking a generation from our families.” ”Yakima County is in the midst of a fentanyl crisis,” said Yakima County Sheriff Robert Udell. “The easily attainable drug is found in inexpensive pill-form and mixed into other illegal narcotics. Young people find it easy to find, and the result is dozens of opioid deaths a year just in Yakima County. We must act now to limit the availability of this dangerous drug, and Rep. Newhouse’s bill is one of the ways to do so. His proposal to enact significant mandatory penalties on those who sell fentanyl, often causing deaths, is an excellent way to protect people of all ages. I enthusiastically support Rep. Newhouse’s bill on penalties for fentanyl dealers.” Read the full text of the bill here. Background: The William and James Wonacott Act is named after two young men from Yakima who lost their lives to products laced with illicit fentanyl. James Wonacott, 30, passed away in November 2022 and was known as a loving and involved member of the Yakima community. James’ younger brother, William Wonacott, fell victim to the same fate. A United States Air Force veteran and husband, William was only 27 years old when he passed. The bill would define federal punishments by making selling, giving, or distributing equivalent to first-degree murder, including provisions to do the following: Enhances penalties for those who sell, give, or distribute illicit fentanyl-related substances. These actions will result in a minimum of twenty years with possibility of life. Enhances penalties if the selling, giving, or distributing results in death. These lethal actions will result in a minimum of twenty-five years with possibility of life. There are protections in place for medical professionals and pharmacists when fentanyl is used for medical purposes in a safe and legal manner.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-applauds-house-passage-wotus-cra,Newhouse Applauds House Passage of WOTUS CRA,2023-03-09,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and his House colleagues voted to pass H.J. Res. 27, a joint resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) on the Biden Administration’s flawed and burdensome “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule. Earlier today, Rep. Newhouse and 10 members of the Congressional Western Caucus spoke in support of H.J. Res. 27 on the House floor. CLICK HERE TO WATCH “WOTUS is nothing more than a power grab which would impose tighter controls over waters the Clean Water Act never intended to regulate. Rural communities in the West and across the country are dedicated to clean water and they are the ones being punished by the continued legal uncertainty this new final rule promulgates. While I am disappointed in this administration’s dismissal of our rural communities, I will never stop fighting for them,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I urge the Senate to join us in passing this resolution to push back on this administration’s egregious overreach and fight for our food supply, our private property rights, and our country.” Read the joint resolution here. Background: In January, Rep. Newhouse led 194 other House Republicans in a letter blasting the Biden Administration for its premature and reckless “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) final rule. The Members demanded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to rescind the rule and postpone any subsequent agency action on WOTUS to allow the Supreme Court to issue an opinion on Sackett v EPA. Click here to read more. On December 30, 2022, Chairman Newhouse and 22 Members of the Congressional Western Caucusspoke out against the Biden Administration releasing a final WOTUS rule—on the last business day of the year—before the Supreme Court has decided Sackett v. EPA. In April 2022, Chairman Newhouse, Rep. Miller-Meeks, and Rep. Rodney Davis (IL-13) submitted an amicus brief to the Supreme Court for Sackett v. EPA outlining the importance of environmental federalism and how a poorly-defined Clean Water Act hinders environmental protections. On March 9, 2022, Chairman Newhouse, Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Sam Graves (MO-06), and Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee Ranking Member David Rouzer (NC-07) led over 200 House Republicans – including every Member of the Western Caucus – in calling for the Biden Administration to drop its plan to expand the scope of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) until Sackett v. EPA is decided by the Supreme Court. Click here to learn more. In January 2022, Chairman Newhouse and Rep. Miller-Meeks called on the Administration to halt the rulemaking process, based on the Supreme Court’s decision to take up the Sackett case. Chairman Newhouse hosted Rep. Davis, Illinois Farm Bureau President Rich Guebert, and Charles Yates of the Pacific Legal Foundation, one of the contributing lawyers in the Sackett v. EPA case, to discuss the impacts WOTUS has on rural communities and potential implications of the Supreme Court decision. Click here to listen. When the Biden Administration announced their intention to revise and remand the Trump Administration’s Navigable Waters Protection Rule, Chairman Newhouse, Rep. Miller-Meeks, Senator Steve Daines (MT), and Senator Joni Ernst (IA) led Western Caucus Members in a bicameral letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan and Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Jaime Pinkham to express their serious concerns and demand answers about the Administration’s plans to reopen the definition of “waters of the United States.” Click here to read the letter and learn more.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-strengthen-tribal-law-enforcement-0,"Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Tribal Law Enforcement, Address MMIW Crisis",2023-03-02,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), alongside Reps. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Sharice Davids (D-KS), introduced the Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act, a bipartisan bill that strengthens tribal law enforcement and increases public safety in Indian Country. The legislation addresses federal inefficiencies that hurt Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement recruitment and retention, increases the effectiveness of federal missing persons resources, and gives resources to Tribes and states to combat the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. You can read the full text of the bill here. “Native American communities and law enforcement agencies face an uphill battle investigating cases of missing and murdered indigenous women due to lack of access to coordinated federal crime data,” said Rep. Newhouse. “This legislation provides critical federal resources and access to criminal databases to tribal law enforcement so they can effectively investigate these cases and help end the MMIW crisis.” “For years, the federal government has failed to provide tribal communities the resources needed to adequately ensure public safety and properly support Tribal law enforcement agencies,” said Rep. Ruben Gallego. “I’m proud to introduce this important legislation today, which will help recruit and retain Tribal law enforcement officers, address the unmet public safety needs of Tribal communities and improve coordination between Tribal, federal, and state agencies in Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons cases. This is a widely supported, bipartisan effort, and I look forward to finally getting this bill passed.” “Increasing coordination between federal, state, and tribal law enforcement agencies will improve public safety in tribal communities and help address the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous peoples. I am once again proud to join my colleagues in introducing the bipartisan BADGES Act, which will provide additional support to tribal law enforcement officers as they protect tribal communities,” said Rep. Sharice Davids. “The Gila River Indian Community supports Rep. Gallego’s efforts to increase the safety of tribal communities by providing the data, access and resources needed to ensure we can retain law enforcement officers and that our law enforcement agencies have the resources they need to keep our communities safe. As a sovereign nation, there is no greater obligation than the safety of our members and all those who enter our Community. The “Bridging Agency Data Gaps and Ensuring Safety” (BADGES) for Native Communities Act will strengthen tribal law enforcement agencies, and provide the data and resources to keep our Communities safe. The Community appreciates Rep. Gallego’s leadership in introducing this bipartisan bill and looks forward to working with Rep. Gallego as the bill moves forward,” said Governor Stephen Roe Lewis, Gila River Indian Community. “Inefficient data sharing, poor recruitment and retention of law enforcement officers, and the lack of coordination among Federal, state, Tribal, and local law enforcement agencies remain significant barriers to justice for Native women and children experiencing disproportionate levels of violence,” said Lucy R. Simpson, Executive Director, National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center (NIWRC). “The Bridging Agency Data Gaps and Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act will help to address some of these inefficiencies by supporting data systems and law enforcement coordination efforts, as well as empowering Tribes with the resources needed to find our missing relatives and end this crisis of violence.” ""Ensuring the safety of our Native communities is critical, which is why NCAI applauds the introduction of the Bridging Agency Data Gaps and Ensuring Safety for Native Communities Act (BADGES) that is a meaningful step forward to ending the epidemic of Missing and Murdered Relatives across the country. We urge Congress to pass this legislation and help keep our people and our families safer,"" said Larry Wright, Jr., Executive Director of the National Congress of American Indians. ""As a society, it is crucial that we recognize and honor the unique needs and sovereignty of each tribal community,” said Angel Charley, Executive Director, Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women. “Legislation that protects the rights and safety of our communities is necessary to address the systemic inequalities we face and promotes justice and equity for communities most impacted by violence. By supporting the BADGES for Native Communities Act, we demonstrate our commitment to building a more accountable, inclusive, and respectful partnership that uplifts the needs of survivors."" “I am grateful for the leadership of Congressman Gallego and Senator Cortez Masto for championing the BADGES Act. Our people deserve improved law enforcement coordination when reporting their loved ones missing. By increasing resources for tribes and urban Indian organizations, the federal government upholds its responsibility to establish public safety in Indian Country,” said Esther Lucero, President & CEO, Seattle Indian Health Board. “Violence against Indigenous women is a human rights crisis in the United States. Ensuring tribal law enforcement have the resources and data they need to address this crisis is an important step in responding to—and preventing—violence against Indigenous women. We urge Congress to swiftly pass the BADGES Act and help end this epidemic of violence,” said Tarah Demant, Interim National Director, Programs, Government Relations and Advocacy, Amnesty International USA. “The reintroduction of the Bridging Agency Data Gaps and Ensuring Safety for Native Communities Act is a vital step towards addressing the longstanding issue of missing, unidentified or murdered Native people in our country. This is a major issue for Native people both on and off reservation, including in urban areas. This legislation establishes an avenue for Tribes and urban Indian organizations to directly communicate and coordinate with the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System and supports information sharing between Tribes and urban Indian organizations and law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, and regional levels. This legislation is one way to help bring justice and closure to Native families and communities and hopefully will make it so fewer Native families have to suffer this terrible burden in the future. We must continue to advocate for policies that prioritize the safety and wellbeing of Indigenous communities, and the passage of this Act is a critical step in that direction,” said Francys Crevier (Algonquin), CEO for the National Council of Urban Indian Health. Background: The BADGES for Native Communities Act includes provisions to do the following: Increase Tribal access to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) by requiring Tribal facilitators to conduct ongoing Tribal outreach and serve as a point of contact for Tribes and law enforcement agencies, as well as conduct training and information gathering to improve the resolution of missing persons cases. Require a report on Tribal law enforcement needs, including staffing, replacement and repairs for corrections facilities, infrastructure and capital for tribal police and court facilities, and emergency communication technology. Allow the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to conduct its own background checks for law enforcement officer applicants in order to improve officer recruitment. Establish a grant program to support states, Tribes, and Tribal organizations in the coordination efforts related to missing and murdered persons cases and sexual assault cases. Evaluate federal law enforcement evidence collection, handling, and processing crucial to securing conviction of violent offenders. Ensure BIA officers and Tribal police have access to culturally appropriate mental health and wellness programs. This legislation is endorsed by the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women, the Seattle Indian Health Board, the National Council of Urban Indian Health, and Amnesty International.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-requests-central-washington-input-community-project-funding-1,Newhouse Requests Central Washington Input on Community Project Funding,2023-03-02,2023,2023-03,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced his office is currently accepting eligible Community Project Funding requests that will improve the lives of Central Washingtonians and support the economic prosperity of Washington state. The House Committee on Appropriations recently announced that it will be accepting Community Project Funding requests from Members of Congress, designed to help deliver targeted federal funding to select projects in districts across the country. Community Project Funding requests can be submitted on his website and must be submitted by Friday, March 10. CLICK HERE FOR COMMUNITY PROJECT FUNDING REQUEST FORM Prior to applying, please review guidance from the House Committee on Appropriations: https://appropriations.house.gov/fiscal-year-2024-member-request-guidance. Reminder: Receiving a CPF in the final bill does not guarantee the entity will receive funding. The entity must be eligible for the grant program to which they apply. Additionally, the entity must still apply for the grant through the granting federal agency, IAW, all federal laws, and regulations. Background: As the representative for Washington’s 4th Congressional District, Rep. Newhouse will have the opportunity to submit up to fifteen requests for Community Project Funding. These requests are meant to restore Congress’s Article I powers by ensuring that federal funding is directly targeted toward projects that benefit surrounding communities and the district as a whole. You can find general guidelines for which types of projects are eligible here and below: For-profit entities are not eligible for Community Project Funding. Each project request must be for fiscal year 2024 funds only and cannot include a request for multi-year funding. Requests will be posted online on House.gov websites. Must demonstrate good use of taxpayers’ dollars. State or local governmental entities are encouraged to apply as the primary grantee to oversee the completion of the project. For infrastructure projects, many States have established lists or intended use plans with projects that have already been vetted by governmental officials (e.g. drinking water, wastewater, and highways). Requests to direct funding to a non-profit organization must provide evidence that the recipient is a non-profit organization as described under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Further, many water projects often partner with non-profit entities to complete projects. Therefore, projects may also be directed to non-profits with an inherently governmental function. Community engagement and support is crucial in determining which projects are worthy of Federal funding. Only projects with demonstrated community support will be considered. This recommendation builds on past Committee reforms, and Members will be required to present to the Committee evidence of community support that were compelling factors in their decision to submit the request. Examples of these include, but are not limited to: Letters of support from elected community leaders (e.g., mayors or other officials); Press articles highlighting the need for the requested Community Project Funding; Support from newspaper editorial boards; Projects listed on State intended use plans, community development plans, or other publicly available planning documents; or Resolutions passed by city councils or boards. All requests must be submitted by Friday, March 10. At that time, viable submissions will be considered to determine which projects will ultimately be submitted for consideration by the House Committee on Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2024.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-highlights-ccps-threats-america,Newhouse Highlights CCP’s Threats to America,2023-02-28,2023,2023-02,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party held their first hearing titled “The Chinese Communist Party’s Threat to America.” During the hearing, the Select Committee received testimony from non-governmental witnesses on the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) threat to America. The hearing provided an overview of how the relationship between the United States and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) arrived at this point and described the CCP’s threat to our security, our economy, and our values. The following witnesses testified during the hearing: The Honorable Matthew Pottinger, Former United States Deputy National Security Advisor The Honorable H.R. McMaster, Former United States National Security Advisor Ms. Tong Yi, Chinese Human Rights Advocate Mr. Scott Paul, President of the Alliance for American Manufacturing Rep. Newhouse questioned General McMaster regarding CCP-backed purchases of American farmland and potential purchases near strategic sites such as military installations or critical infrastructure. He also questioned Ms. Tong regarding the “White Paper” protests last fall and the similarities to previous dissident movements in China. WATCH REP. NEWHOUSE IN THE HEARING HERE",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-addresses-usdas-failure-protect-american-farmland-foreign,Newhouse Addresses USDA’s Failure to Protect American Farmland from Foreign Adversaries,2023-02-27,2023,2023-02,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and a bipartisan group of lawmakers demanded action from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regarding their failure to conduct oversight of foreign acquisition of U.S. agricultural land. The letter, sent to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack, expresses deep concern about an internal USDA memo which revealed USDA failed to assess or follow through to penalize failures to report foreign acquisition of U.S. agricultural land between 2015 and 2018, which is required under the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act (AFIDA). “We must always protect America's most vital, yet finite, resource—our farmland,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The United States' most forbidding adversaries, especially the Chinese Communist Party, will continue to undermine our democracy and threaten our heartland if we do not take action. USDA's failure to conduct oversight to protect local farmers, rural communities, and our national security is inexplicable. The American people deserve answers now.” Read the letter here. Background: In September of 2013, the President of the People’s Republic of China and General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, Xi Jinping, announced China’s “grand political-economic project,” now known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) or Debt Trap Diplomacy. Over the last decade, President Xi has and continues to invest billions into the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road in Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. This Congress, Rep. Newhouse led his colleagues in re-introducing the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act to prohibit the purchase of public or private agricultural land in the United States by foreign nationals associated with the Government of the People’s Republic of China. Additionally, the legislation would prohibit the same associations from participating in any United States Department of Agriculture programs except food safety inspections. Earlier this year, Rep. Newhouse cosponsored the Promoting Agriculture Safeguards and Security (PASS) Act, which protects our national security by preventing foreign adversaries from taking any ownership or control of the United States’ agricultural land and agricultural businesses. More specifically, the PASS Act prohibits China, Russia, Iran and North Korea from purchasing U.S. agricultural land and agricultural companies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announced-co-chair-congressional-wine-caucus,Newhouse Announced as Co-Chair of Congressional Wine Caucus,2023-02-03,2023,2023-02,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) was announced as Co-Chair of the Congressional Wine Caucus alongside Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA), and will continue to lead the bicameral and bipartisan Caucus for the 118th Congress. ""As a proud grape grower, I know firsthand the strong economic contributions made by the grape and wine producers and the issues our industry faces,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I am honored to represent the flourishing, high-quality wine region of Central Washington. I look forward to continue working with Rep. Thompson to ensure that our nation's wine industry – from wine grape growers to winemakers and sellers – can continue to thrive and grow."" “Agriculture is important to our district and to every state across our country. Winegrapes are grown in all 50 states and generate $276 billion for our economy while creating nearly two million jobs,” said Rep. Thompson. “I founded the Congressional Wine Caucus to develop a line of communication between winegrape growers and vintners and Congress. During the 118th Congress, Rep. Newhouse and I — and the entire Wine Caucus — will continue this work to support our wine community.” “We at WineAmerica are deeply grateful to Representatives Dan Newhouse and Mike Thompson for their leadership as Co-chairs of the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Wine Caucus,” said Jim Trezise, President of WineAmerica. “Our 2022 National Economic Impact Study showed that the wine industry boosted the American economy by $276 billion, up by 25% from 2017. Since wine is produced and consumed in all 50 states, it is vital that we have legislators who are both informed and involved. The Congressional Wine Caucus serves that purpose.” “The Washington Wine Institute is very proud to have Congressman Dan Newhouse as Co-Chair of the Congressional Wine Caucus,” said Josh McDonald, Executive Director of Washington Wine Institute. “As a wine grower himself, he understands the industry and what is needed to ensure that Washington wineries has sustainable growth in the future. We look forward to working with him to promote and support the wine industry in Washington state and across the nation.” “The Washington Winegrowers are particularly thrilled with Congressman Newhouse’s position as co-chair of the Congressional Wine Caucus,” said Vicki Scharlau, Executive Director of the Washington Winegrowers Association. “He more than most others understands the challenges and unique opportunities afforded grape growers—being one himself. We look forward to his leadership promoting and protecting the US wine industry all the while having his feet firmly planted in the vineyards of Washington state.” Background: Wine is produced in all 50 states and generates jobs and revenue in both rural and urban communities. The wine industry contributes an estimated $276 billion to the U.S. economy annually and creates the equivalent of almost two million full-time jobs. The more than 10,000 predominantly family-owned wineries in the U.S. attract more than 49 million tourists each year who enjoy the wines, cultural activities, and scenic pastoral landscapes in wine country. In Washington State, there are more than 800 wineries and over 250 wine and grape growers. The wine industry generates over $9.5 billion in total economic activity with over 14,000 acres of vineyards and 60,000 jobs created and supported by the wine industry. With 14 unique AVAs across the state, Washington's wine industry continues to grow and produce high-quality varieties that are enjoyed all over the world. In addition, Washington State University is one of the country's leading viticulture research institutions and one of only 14 universities in the United States to offer a Viticulture & Enology degree. The Congressional Wine Caucus was founded in 1999 by Congressmen and wine grape growers Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena) and George Radanovich (R-Fresno) to protect the interests of our vibrant wine community from grape to glass. You can click here to learn more about the Congressional Wine Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-leads-bill-prohibit-purchase-us-land-chinese-communist-party,Newhouse Leads Bill to Prohibit Purchase of U.S. Land by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP),2023-02-02,2023,2023-02,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) led his House colleagues in the introduction of the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act. This legislation would prohibit the purchase of public or private agricultural land in the United States by foreign nationals associated with the Government of the People’s Republic of China. “The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is a threat to American democracy. The United States is engaged in a great power struggle with the CCP, and we must respond with tough policies that will protect our farmland and food supply chain, said Rep. Newhouse. “We should be taking every action we can to strengthen our domestic production while preventing our nation's strongest adversaries from having an advantage over our supply chain. I am proud to introduce this legislation alongside many of my House colleagues to keep the CCP from gaining a foothold from within our own borders.” “The CCP’s agenda to dramatically increase its ownership of American agricultural land is an immediate concern and one we will deal with directly on the Select Committee on China,” said Rep. Dusty Johnson. “We cannot allow our adversary to have control over our food supply and supply chain. This is a national security threat that cannot be ignored, and I am grateful for Rep. Newhouse’s leadership on this issue.” “We cannot allow the Chinese Communist Party to buy U.S. farms and jeopardize the food supply Michigan families rely on,” said Rep. Moolenaar. “This legislation protects our country and stands up to the CCP’s efforts to expand its influence over America.” “Agriculture is Eastern Washington’s number one industry. We simply cannot allow companies from China to lock down our resources and undermine our farmers and ranchers’ ability to feed the world,” said Rep. Rodgers. “Americans should not be forced to rely on China for the food they put on the table. Prohibiting the Chinese Communist Party from purchasing farmland in the United States is a no-brainer that will support domestic food production and decrease our dangerous dependence on foreign adversaries.” “Under no circumstances should our food supply be dependent upon the Chinese Communist Party,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “That is why I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act which will protect American agriculture, bolster our domestic food production, and prevent hostile regimes from having a hand in our supply chain.” ""America is the land of the free — not the land owned by China,"" said Rep. Reschenthaler. ""The Chinese Communist Party’s malign efforts to purchase domestic farmland is a direct threat to the American homeland. As an original cosponsor of the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act, I am proud to join Rep. Newhouse on this important effort to protect our nation's national security, food security, and economic security.” “China must be banned from buying our farmland because American farmland belongs to American farmers,” said Rep. Feenstra. “I am proud to work with my colleague Rep. Dan Newhouse to prevent malign foreign interests from infiltrating rural America and threatening our national and food security.” “To allow China, governed by the Chinese Communist Party, to acquire farmland near and around key military and otherwise strategic areas of the United States, is as dumb as it gets,” said Rep. Rouzer. “Not only are these purchases of key areas of farmland a threat to our national security, but it is a threat to our food security as well. This must end, and I am proud to co-sponsor legislation to do just that.” “Increased ownership of U.S. farmland by foreign adversaries like China is an alarmingly growing trend that poses a risk to our national and economic security,” said Rep. Valadao. “Farmers in the Central Valley produce a quarter of our nation’s food with less than one percent of our nation’s farmland. We cannot sit idly by while China strategically purchases the rich land in our own backyard, jeopardizing our nation’s food security and giving China control over our food supply. I’m glad to join my colleague and fellow farmer Rep. Newhouse to introduce the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act, which will ensure American farms are kept out of the hands of our adversaries.” “The Chinese Communist Party works tirelessly to infiltrate our nation and spread their influence, including through efforts to undermine our food supply,” said Rep. Miller-Meeks. “We should take every action necessary to prevent the CCP from taking over American farmland. Doing so will boost the American agriculture industry and our economy—all while curbing Chinese influence.” “America is blessed with an abundance of agricultural land, and it is critical to our national security, food security, and economic security that we protect those lands from ownership by our adversaries,” said Rep. Westerman. “I’m proud to join Congressman Newhouse and many of my colleagues to cosponsor this bill and take a stand to protect America’s vast agricultural lands from the Chinese Communist Party.” “The recent increase in purchases of American farmland by individuals associated with the Chinese Communist Party, especially near military bases, represent an alarming threat to our both our food security and national security,” said Rep. Stauber. “I am proud to join Rep. Newhouse on this important legislation to stop those affiliated with Communist China from buying American farmland.” “The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has no business purchasing land near military bases or for agricultural purposes – or for any other reason,” said Rep. Bill Johnson. “It is a critical matter of national security that we prevent the CCP from buying large swaths of American land. That is exactly why I cosponsored the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act.” “Foreign nationals associated with the Chinese Communist Party should not be investing in or purchasing American farmland – period,” said Rep. Latta. “Allowing one of our greatest adversaries to snatch up farmland is a dangerous trend that not only has national security implications but threatens the security of our food supply and harms American agriculture producers. I’m proud to join Congressman Newhouse in this effort to keep China from purchasing valuable American land, undercutting our farmers, and gaining a foothold from within our own nation.” “Increasing ownership of private property by entities with ties to the Chinese Communist Party has rightly given rise to escalating concerns,” said Rep. Flood. “Our country’s land is inextricably linked to our national security, food supply, and energy resources. This bill ensures that America is putting the interests of our people first and taking another step to protect our future against the encroachment of the CCP and their allies.” The legislation led by Rep. Newhouse has over 45 original co-sponsors in the House of Representatives. Members of the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the U.S. and the CCP Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), John Moolenaar (R-MI), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), and Ashley Hinson (R-IA) have signed onto the legislation, in addition to: Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), Jason Smith (R-MO), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), David Rouzer (R-NC), David Valadao (R-CA), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Bill Johnson (R-OH), Bob Latta (R-OH), Mike Flood (R-NE), John Moolenaar (R-MI), Jack Bergman (R-MI), Maria Salazar (R-FL), Mark Amodei (R-NV), Mike Bost (R-IL), Mike Guest (R-MS), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Rep. Mike Flood (R-NE), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Tim Walberg (R-MI), Kelly Armstrong (R-ND), Bob Latta (R-OH), Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Julia Letlow (R-LA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Rudy Yakym (R-IN), Jake Ellzey (R-TX), John Rutherford (R-FL), Blake Moore (R-UT), Chris Smith (R-NJ), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Ryan Zinke (R-MT), Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chris Stewart (R-UT), Barry Moore (R-AL), Kat Cammack (R-FL), Ronny Johnson (R-TX), Gregory Murphy (R-NC), Jim Baird (R-IN), Lisa McClain (R-MI), and Ralph Norman (R-SC). Read the full text of the bill here. Background: Last Congress, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act to prohibit the purchase of public or private agricultural land in the United States by foreign nationals associated with the Government of the People’s Republic of China. Additionally, the legislation would prohibit the same associations from participating in any United States Department of Agriculture programs except food safety inspections. In September of 2013, the President of the People’s Republic of China and General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, Xi Jinping, announced China’s “grand political-economic project,” now known as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) or Debt Trap Diplomacy. Over the last decade, President Xi has and continues to invest billions into the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road in Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Congress must take a stand and stop PRC investments in the United States as a matter of national security, food security, and economic security. The United States currently has laws on the books (Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act (AFIDA) of 1978), but it largely puts the onus on the purchasing party to self-report land purchases, and fines are rarely levied for misreporting or not reporting at all. The Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act would direct the President of the United States to take any necessary actions to prohibit the purchase of public or private agricultural land in the United States by foreign nationals associated with the Government of the People’s Republic of China. Additionally, the legislation would prohibit the same associations from participating in any United States Department of Agriculture programs except food safety inspections.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-bill-boost-efficient-effective-forest-management,"Newhouse Introduces Bill to Boost Efficient, Effective Forest Management",2023-02-01,2023,2023-02,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Root and Stem Project Authorization Act alongside Rep. Scott Peters (D-CA) and Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Diane Feinstein (D-CA). This legislation provides the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management with a clear statutory tool to treat forests more efficiently and empower collaborative processes through “Root & Stem” projects. “Collaborative projects have extraordinary benefits to both local economies and the environment in Central Washington,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The Root and Stem Act will be helpful in accelerating these forest management projects to restore federal forests that have suffered from years of poor—or nonexistent—management. I am proud to re-introduce this crucial piece of legislation alongside Rep. Peters and Senators Daines and Feinstein and look forward to restoring healthy forests through efficient and collaborative management.” “Collaboration between the federal government and Montanans is key when it comes to common sense forest management,” said Senator Daines. “We should be encouraging public-private partnerships that will find creative and effective solutions to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires, promote healthy forests and protect local communities. Season after season, Montana is facing devastating wildfires. It’s past time we restore active forest management practices.” “The Root & Stem Act will accelerate forest management projects that are smart and rooted in science to protect our ecosystems and climate,” said Rep. Peters. “As we combat the increasing risks of wildfires and drought due to climate change, bipartisan action to protect our forests and public lands will be more critical than ever. I thank Chairman Newhouse for his partnership on this legislation.” “I’m pleased to join Senator Daines on his Root and Stem Project Authorization Act. This bill would codify into law the authority of the Forest Service and Interior Department to allow qualified, vetted contractors to prepare environmental analyses for forest management projects,” said Senator Feinstein. “This practice has long been permitted under executive branch regulations, and codifying it will allow critical wildfire mitigation work to move forward on schedule.” By authorizing the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to propose and enter collaborative stewardship contracts and agreements, this legislation will allow the agencies to accomplish more hazardous fuels reduction and empower the agencies to engage with state, local, and tribal partners to ensure forest management projects compliment ongoing conservation efforts, benefit communities, and protect local ecosystems. Statements of Support: “Only with the help of states and the private sector can we tackle the wildfire crisis and the 80 million acre forest-restoration backlog. Building on the success of the Colville National Forest’s “A to Z” project, the Root and Stem Project Authorization Act of 2023 proposes to harness the power of public-private collaboration by empowering states and private parties to design forest restoration projects, to fund environmental analysis, and to implement projects. The bill also addresses the serious threat of litigation to responsible forest management.”—Jonathan Wood, PERC Vice President of Law and Policy “The Root & Stem Act of 2023 is an innovative and bipartisan solution for improving the health and resiliency of our federally owned forests- more quickly and at less cost to taxpayers. This legislation builds upon a successful and collaborative partnership on the Colville National Forest that has accelerated needed treatments to protect communities, reduce severe fire risks, and enhance wildlife habitat, while providing timber for American-made wood products. It is time for Congress to codify this approach to promote more investment in science-based public land management, and to give forest collaboratives across the country further incentive to get more work done on the ground.” —Travis Joseph, President and CEO, American Forest Resources Council “The Root and Stem Act encourages collaboration between public and private stakeholders, which is key to reaching the scale and pace necessary to address the state of emergency that exists within our nation’s forests and public lands.”—Becky Humphries, CEO, National Wild Turkey Federation Read the full text of the Root and Stem Act here. Background: The Root & Stem Act will: Authorize the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to propose and enter into stewardship contracts and agreements prior to the completion of environmental review Allow for the preparation of the environmental analysis to be included as a service item (i.e. paid for with timber receipts) in the stewardship contract or agreement, provided the environmental analysis would be completed by an independent third party and the agency retains final decision authority for both the environmental analysis and the project Ensure Root & Stem projects are developed through a collaborative process and protect the collaborative process and consensus-driven management by: Clearly defining “collaborative process” to eliminate confusion and encourage the use of the Root & Stem tool Affirming that participants can intervene in any subsequent civil action and are considered full participants in any potential settlement negotiation relating to the project to ensure local voices are heard The “Root and Stem Act” passed the U.S. Senate in December 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-help-veterans-va-employees-fixing-ehr,"Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Help Veterans, VA Employees by Fixing EHR System",2023-02-01,2023,2023-02,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL) introduced the VA Electronic Health Record Modernization Improvement Act. This legislation would fix VA’s handling of the Oracle Cerner electronic health record (EHR) system and ultimately ensure that VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) are well-equipped to implement and use the new system, without hindering the delivery of care to veterans and hurting VA provider productivity levels. “The disastrous rollout of the Cerner electronic health record system put the health and safety of veterans at risk—the very same men and women who put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms we enjoy each and every day,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Requiring VA medical centers to certify this system will not threaten any more veterans before deploying it at other sites should be commonsense. Unfortunately, given the botched handling of the initial rollout, it is on Congress to ensure the VA fulfills its duty and maintains the highest level of care for the men and women who deserve it most. I am proud to introduce this legislation today alongside Chairman Bost, and will never stop fighting to ensure the federal government keeps its commitment to provide our veterans with the respect and care they have earned.” “I have traveled across the country and seen and heard firsthand the impact the Oracle Cerner product has had on VA providers and veterans. It has crippled the delivery of care, put veteran patient safety at risk, and stressed an already overwhelmed healthcare system,” said Chairman Bost. “While I commend the Secretary for pausing deployment of the new EHR at future sites, I am not confident that will be enough. It’s simple: the Oracle Cerner system should not be implemented at any more VA sites until the VAMC leadership certifies that the medical center is ready. That’s exactly what our bill would do. I hope to get this legislation passed out of the House and signed into law as soon as possible.” Read the full text of the VA Electronic Health Record Modernization Act here. Background: Last year, Rep. Newhouse sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Deputy Secretary calling on the VA to provide additional resources to help local medical centers manage the additional workload created by the failed implementation of the new electronic health record system.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-promote-trade-increase-global,"Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Promote Trade, Increase Global Competitiveness for Central Washington Farmers",2023-02-01,2023,2023-02,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2023 alongside Reps. Tracey Mann (R-KS), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Kim Schrier (D-WA), Jim Costa (D-CA), and Chellie Pingree (D-ME). This legislation would increase funding to U.S. Department of Agriculture export promotion programs, the Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development Program (FMDP), and help American farmers maintain an edge in the increasingly competitive global marketplace. “Programs like the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program are essential for farmers and ranchers in Central Washington and across the country to help expand their customer base and market their products abroad,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The Ag Export Promotion Act will further advance the agriculture industry's capabilities to create more good-paying jobs while enabling customers around the world to enjoy Washington's high-quality, nutritious products.” “Trade promotion is an essential function of a strong Farm Bill,” said Rep. Mann. “The return on investment from private sector contributions, which accounted for roughly 75% of export promotion between 2013 and 2019, is unparalleled. The Ag Export Promotion Act will help agricultural trade associations as they work tirelessly to ensure American producers remain competitive in the international marketplace.” “As a farmer, I know firsthand the value of the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program, both of which are essential tools for Minnesota’s agricultural economy,” said Rep. Finstad. “Strong trade promotion policies are critical for farm country, and the U.S. economy as a whole. Targeted investments in these programs will strengthen our farm, food, and national security by establishing new markets and opening opportunities for our producers to compete on a global stage.” “The Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program have proven to be valuable tools that help American producers access new export markets while offering a strong return on investment,” said Rep. Hinson. “The Ag Export Promotion Act will help ensure that Iowa farmers have greater resources to remain competitive in the global marketplace, improve food security, and support our rural economy.” “Farmers, producers, and ranchers around our country depend on the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program to reach markets abroad and grow their businesses at home,” said Rep. Panetta. “The bipartisan Ag Export Promotion Act would make significant investments in those programs to ensure that our nation’s farmers and ranchers have access to the tools and resources that they need to compete in the global marketplace. Federal support to secure appropriate market access abroad creates good-paying jobs in the U.S., supports our local economies, and fortifies the future of American agriculture.” “The Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program have proven to help local farmers and growers in my district bring their top quality products, including apples, cherries, and wheat to customers around the world, unlocking economic opportunity on a global scale for local businesses of the 8th District,” said Rep. Schrier. “I'm proud to be an original cosponsor of this legislation that increases funding for these programs to help the agriculture community facing the challenges of rising costs, supply chain issues, and low crop yields.” “Opening and growing new markets for American-made products are critical to building our agricultural economy,” said Rep. Costa. “Food is a global security issue, and we must do all we can to reverse disruptions in trade and grow new partnerships that help deliver American products around the world.” “Wild blueberries, potatoes, and lobsters are some of Maine’s most iconic products in the world market,"" said Rep. Pingree. ""The Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program at USDA have been extremely successful in helping farmers maintain export markets for products such as these. Increased funding for these two programs would provide vital support to farmers, fishers, and others that want to reach new markets abroad.” Background: The Market Access Program (MAP) was established in 1985, and allows agricultural trade associations, farmer cooperatives, non-profit trade groups, and small businesses to apply for either generic or brand-specific promotion funds to support exporting efforts. Generic commodity funds are issues with a 10-percent minimum matching fund, while brand-specific funds require a funding match of at least 50%. The Foreign Market Development Program (FMDP) was first developed in 1955 and is largely used for the promotion of bulk commodities, helping agricultural trade associations establish permanent presences in important markets. It also includes a matching fund requirement. USDA export programs like MAP and FDMP have added an annual average of $8.15 billion to the value of American agricultural exports, and added up to 239,800 full and part-time jobs, including 90,000 farm sector jobs. Despite these successes, MAP and FMDP funding has not increased since the 2002 Farm Bill, even as competitors increase their efforts; for example, the European Union’s spending for the promotion of wine exceeded the total budget of MAP and FMDP in 2017. Companion legislation was also introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Ernst (R-IA), Grassley (R-IA), Collins (R-ME), King (I-ME), and Smith (D-MN). Last Congress, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Supporting Market Access to Reinvigorate Trade (SMART) Act of 2022 to increase the funds allocated of the MAP and FMDP programs. Companion legislation, the Cultivating Revitalization by Expanding American Agricultural Trade and Exports (CREAATE) Act, was introduced by U.S. Senators Ernst (R-IA), Grassley (R-IA), Collins (R-ME), King (I-ME), and Smith (D-MN).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announces-subcommittee-appointments-appropriations-committee,Newhouse Announces Subcommittee Appointments on the Appropriations Committee,2023-01-27,2023,2023-01,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) announced his reappointment to the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies in addition to his new appointment to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security. “I am honored to continue serving on this powerful committee and on subcommittees with vital jurisdictions for Central Washington’s priorities,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I look forward to continuing our diligent work for the farmers and agriculture industry in Central Washington on the Agriculture Subcommittee, especially as we begin to put together the 2023 Farm Bill. We have much more work to be done to ensure our specialty crop farmers, wine and hops growers, agriculture research initiatives, and food supply chains have the necessary resources they need to be sustainable. I am ready to get to work to ensure the men and women who provide food to our country and the world will be successful.” Rep. Newhouse continued, “I look forward to continuing my work on the Energy and Water Subcommittee to support strong funding levels for the important carbon-free hydroelectric dams in Central Washington, Bureau of Reclamation resources, Hanford cleanup, as well as appropriations for the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and the world-class clean energy development happening right here at home.” “It has also been a priority of mine to defend our homeland and ensure our nation has strong and secure borders,” Rep. Newhouse added. “I am determined to stand strong against all forms of terrorism—both abroad and here at home—and my spot on the Homeland Security Subcommittee will allow me to continue my leadership on that front.” “It is my great pleasure to welcome back Rep. Newhouse to our team on the House Appropriations Committee for the 118th Congress,” said Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee Kay Granger (R-TX). “Dan has been a strong leader in advancing the priorities of rural Americans and Central Washingtonians. As a farmer, small businessman, and Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, he brings an important and unique perspective for farmers and the agriculture industry. The people of Central Washington have a fierce champion representing them in our nation’s capital. I look forward to working with him to exercise Congress’ power of the purse, promote responsible spending, and advance conservative values throughout the 118th Congress.” The Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration is responsible for appropriating funds to the Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, and related agencies including the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and Farm Credit Administration. The Subcommittee will oversee all funding for agriculture research, rural development projects such as expansion of rural broadband, and other critical funding priorities for Central Washington’s agricultural communities. The Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies appropriates funding for the Department of Energy, the Department of the Interior, Bonneville Power Administration, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and other agencies. Additionally, Energy and Water Development oversees spending for federal water projects and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Interior, and the Bureau of Reclamation, which are critical for the next phase of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan and irrigation in the West.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-combat-fentanyl-trafficking,Newhouse Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Fentanyl Trafficking,2023-01-27,2023,2023-01,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act or SAFE Act alongside Reps. Chris Pappas (D-NH) and Tony Gonzales (R-TX). This legislation would permanently schedule all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs to ensure law enforcement can keep them off the streets. “Communities across Central Washington have been devastated by the epidemic of synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which is now the leading cause of death for people ages 18-45,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The numerous conversations I’ve had with law enforcement officers, health care experts, and opioid addiction clinics have made one thing abundantly clear: they need more tools to fight back against this crisis in our communities. Permanently classifying fentanyl analogues as Schedule I substances gives our law enforcement agents those tools.” “Our communities are being devastated by the fentanyl crisis,” said Chief Ken Roske, Pasco (WA) Police Department. “At no time in history have we seen a drug that has been this destructive, and responsible for so many deaths. The Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act is desperately needed now.” ""Through my many conversations with law enforcement, public health experts, and advocates across New Hampshire, it remains clear that we must do more to confront the opioid crisis, stop the trafficking of fentanyl and its analogues, and support people suffering from substance use disorder,"" said Rep. Pappas. ""Permanently scheduling deadly fentanyl analogues is an essential step that will ensure law enforcement retains an important tool to keep our communities safe and hold traffickers accountable for the harm they have caused. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in the House to support this legislation, and I thank Representatives Newhouse and Gonzales for partnering with me on this important legislation that will save lives."" “Fentanyl is being smuggled through our southern border at record levels, leaving no community in America untouched,” said Rep. Gonzales. “If fentanyl analogues are permanently scheduled as a Schedule 1 drug, it will help give our men and women in blue and green the proper tools to get this deadly drug off the street. I remain committed to working with my colleagues to aggressively tackle this serious threat that affects all Americans.” Specifically, the Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act will: Amend Section 202(c) of the Controlled Substances Act to permanently classify any fentanyl-related substance as a Schedule I drug unless it is already listed in another schedule or specifically exempted. Define the types of compounds and molecular variations that count as an analogue of fentanyl. Require the Attorney General to publish a list of substances that meet the classification of a fentanyl-related substance in the Federal Register within 60 days of determination. Allow the Secretary of HHS to contract with private entities to conduct research and evaluations into fentanyl-related substances, and create a streamlined process to facilitate research of controlled substances in Schedule I to more closely align it with the process for Schedule II research, to expand our understanding of fentanyl-related substances and other drugs. Require the GAO to issue a report within four years after enactment analyzing the effect of permanent scheduling of fentanyl analogues. The report would analyze impact on research, removal or rescheduling of analogues, manufacturing/trafficking, criminal charges, and overall efficacy on reducing proliferation of fentanyl-related substance. Background: Rep. Newhouse has been a leader in confronting the opioid crisis during his time in Congress, taking the following actions to combat trafficking of deadly substances, expand treatment opportunities, and secure our southern border: On December 20, 2022, Rep. Newhouse and Rep. Pappas reintroduced their legislation to extend the emergency scheduling of fentanyl analogues through December 31, 2024, which became law through the government funding package that was passed by Congress. In March, 2022 Rep. Newhouse introduced the Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act of 2022, or SAFE Act of 2022. The legislation permanently schedules all current and future fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs, to ensure law enforcement can continue to prosecute the sale and use of these substances. On February 10, 2022, Rep. Newhouse sent a letter to President Biden urging his Administration take immediate action on the influx of fentanyl streaming into our country by securing our borders and making fentanyl-related substances’ Schedule 1 classification permanent to ensure law enforcement can continue to prosecute the sale and use of these substances. On February 8, 2022, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Dignity Act, which restarts all currently paused border infrastructure contracts and increases funding for physical border infrastructure. On February 3, 2022, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Law Enforcement Officers Preventing (Drug) Abuse Related Deaths or LEOPARD Act. This bill authorizes rural community response pilot grant programs to allow state and local law enforcement agencies to purchase naloxone, an effective tool to prevent and reduce opioid overdose deaths and directs at least 50% of the programs’ grant funding to rural communities. On March 2, 2022, Rep. Newhouse cosponsored the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act or the HALT Fentanyl Act. This bill places fentanyl-related substances as a class into schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. In 2016, Rep. Newhouse voted in favor of the bipartisan 21st Century CURES Act, which increased state grants for treatment from $500 million to $1.5 billion. Half of those grants were made available in 2017, and the next half in 2018. In 2016, Rep. Newhouse supported the House passage of H.R. 5046, the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Reduction Act of 2016 and 17 bills to address the national opioid abuse crisis. H.R. 5046 combats the opioid epidemic by establishing a streamlined, comprehensive opioid abuse grant program that encompasses a variety of new and existing programs, such as vital training and resources for first responders and law enforcement, criminal investigations for the unlawful distribution of opioids, drug courts, and residential substance abuse treatment. The bill authorizes $103 million annually for the grant program and is fully offset for cut-go purposes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-support-central-washington-agriculture,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Support Central Washington Agriculture Research,2023-01-27,2023,2023-01,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced legislation to reinstate the waiver authority for the Specialty Crop Research Initiative’s matching requirement, as well as include appropriate waiver language authorizing the Secretary of Agriculture to waive the matching funds requirements for specialty crop research programs. “The Specialty Crop Research Initiative is critical in enabling Central Washington farmers to supply the world with cherries, apples, wine, hops and many other specialty crops,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Universities and commodity groups representing Washington agriculture are eager to pursue world-class specialty crop research that provides our farmers with a competitive edge, but provisions left out of the 2018 Farm Bill left SCRI recipients at a disadvantage. I am proud to work as a Member of the Appropriations Committee to include this language to give certainty to these institutions as they compete for federal grant funding and continue their groundbreaking research at facilities throughout Washington and the United States.” “This simple but important solution will help us better serve the agricultural industry in Washington and help support one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world,” said Wendy Powers, Dean of the College of Agricultural Human and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University. “WSU is grateful for Congressman Newhouse’s continued leadership ensuring land grant institutions like ours can support the specialty crop industry in the State of Washington. As a farmer and a WSU alumnus, Rep. Newhouse understands the impact our research has in supporting more than 300 different crops across the state.” “Securing funding for specialty crop research like the incredible work being done at Washington State University has long been a priority for me,” said Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA). “Research coming out of Eastern Washington helps inform regional and national practices on crop inputs, pest threats, harvesting technologies, and food safety issues. My hope is this legislation will help Washington’s agriculture industry stay competitive in the global marketplace and ensure our farmers have the resources they need to keep putting food on kitchen tables across the country.” Background: The Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) is a key U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plant pest and disease prevention research program targeting fruits and vegetables. SCRI has historically been one of the most subscribed of all of USDA research programs. The 2018 Farm Bill inadvertently left out language allowing the Secretary of USDA to waive the match requirement within SCRI for projects considered to be of significant value to agriculture stakeholders. This waiver language was maintained for other research programs, leaving SCRI as the only program where the Secretary does not have this waiver authority. The absence of Secretarial discretion to waive matching funds placed many projects in jeopardy and created confusion for stakeholders.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-appointed-house-china-select-committee,Newhouse Appointed to House China Select Committee,2023-01-23,2023,2023-01,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA)’s appointment to the bipartisan House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party was announced by Speaker McCarthy. Rep. Newhouse will serve under the Chairmanship of Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI). The Committee will focus on reclaiming U.S. economic independence in key areas and on exposing the Chinese Communist Party’s coordinated, whole-of-society strategy to undermine American leadership. “The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is a threat to American democracy,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The United States is engaged in a great power struggle with the CCP, and we must respond with tough policies that will protect our farmland, rebuild our national supply chains, stand up for human rights, and safeguard American sovereignty. I look forward to serving on this committee and will continue leading the charge against the CCP’s efforts to buy up American farmland to ensure our agriculture industry and food supply chain is protected from any and all attacks, overt or otherwise, against them.” Rep. Newhouse will serve under Rep. Gallagher alongside the following Republican Members: Reps. Rob Wittman (R-VA), Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO), Andy Barr (R-KY), John Moolenaar (R-MI), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Jim Banks (R-IN), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Michelle Steel (R-CA), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), and Carlos Gimenez (R-FL). The Democratic Members of the Committee have yet to be announced. Background: Rep. Newhouse has been a leader in the charge to protect American sovereignty against the Chinese Communist Party’s aggression in Congress, specifically as it relates to the exponential purchasing of American farmland. Below are some of the actions he’s taken to address this threat in Congress. In 2021, Rep. Newhouse introduced an amendment to the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies appropriations bill to prohibit the purchase of agricultural land by the People's Republic of China (PRC) and make agricultural lands currently owned by the People's Republic of China ineligible for farm programs. Last Congress, Rep. Newhouse introduced the Prohibition of Agricultural Land for the People’s Republic of China Act which would prohibit the purchase of public or private agricultural land in the United States by foreign nationals associated with the Government of the People’s Republic of China. Additionally, the legislation would prohibit the same associations from participating in any United States Department of Agriculture programs except food safety inspections. In June 2022, Rep. Newhouse introduced an amendment to the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies FY2023 Appropriations Bill to prohibit the purchase of agricultural land in the U.S. by companies owned, in full or in part, by the People’s Republic of China, Russia, North Korea, or Iran. His amendment was unanimously adopted by voice vote. Last year, Rep. Newhouse sent a letter with 50 of his colleagues to the U.S. Department of Defense Secretary Austin Lloyd U.S. Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack raising concerns over the recent acquisition of farmland near a U.S. military installation by a Chinese-based manufacturer with close links to the CCP. The letter came after a recent land acquisition near Grand Forks, North Dakota, by the Fufeng Group, a Chinese-based manufacturer with close links to the CCP.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announced-co-chair-paper-packaging-caucus,Newhouse Announced Co-Chair of Paper & Packaging Caucus,2023-01-13,2023,2023-01,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) was announced Co-Chair of the House Paper & Packaging Caucus which represents the U.S. paper and wood products industry. The paper and wood products industry employs over 27,000 Washingtonians, with many located in Central Washington. Rep. Newhouse will serve alongside Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA) as Co-Chairs. They join the continued bipartisan leadership of Co-Chairs in the U.S. Senate: Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI). “The paper and packaging industry is crucial to the economy of Central Washington and delivers essential products to the entire country,” said Rep. Newhouse. “It is an honor to serve on the Paper & Packaging Caucus with Rep. Correa to bring forth meaningful policy solutions that will help this industry, and the men and women it employs, continue to thrive.” “We are excited to welcome the new Co-Chairs of the House Paper & Packaging Caucus,” said AF&PA President and CEO Heidi Brock. “We are one of the largest manufacturing industries in the United States. The Paper & Packaging Caucus supports policies that help our industry grow, create jobs and foster global market competition for sustainable paper and wood products. These are essential products, made from renewable resources, and used every day by millions of Americans.” “The paper and packaging industry has historically produced good-paying, union jobs to many throughout Orange County that propel many of my constituents and their families into the middle class,” said Rep. Correa. “And its importance and economic impact cannot be understated. I’m excited to get to work alongside my colleague, Rep. Newhouse, to develop meaningful, sustainable policy solutions to foster the continued growth of this vitally important sector to our nation’s economy.” “The Paper & Packaging Caucus is a bipartisan, bicameral caucus highlighting the importance and economic significance of the paper and wood products industry,” said Christian Fischer, President and CEO of Georgia-Pacific LLC and Chair of the AF&PA Board of Directors. “We look forward to working with Congressmen Newhouse and Correa, and welcome other lawmakers to join us, as we work toward common-sense, bipartisan policies that advance U.S. manufacturing and create sustainable products.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-backed-bill-prohibit-export-strategic-petroleum-reserves-china,Newhouse-Backed Bill to Prohibit Export of Strategic Petroleum Reserves to China Passes House,2023-01-12,2023,2023-01,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after legislation he cosponsored passed the U.S. House of Representatives. The Protecting America’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) from China Act introduced by Rep. McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) would prohibit direct or indirect SPR sales to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). “Central Washington families are struggling due to record-high energy and gas prices while the Biden Administration is exporting oil from our Strategic Petroleum Reserve to China,” said Rep. Newhouse. “It should not have to be stated: we simply should not allow our oil to be exported to the Chinese Communist Party. A strong energy sector is a strong national defense, and we cannot let this administration drain our SPR to record lows by selling barrels to one of our nation’s adversaries.” Read the full text of the Protecting America’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve from China Act here. Background: The Protecting America’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve from China Act would prohibit the Secretary of Energy from drawing down or selling petroleum products from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to any entity that is under the ownership, control, or influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). It would also require that the Department of Energy require as a condition of any sale of crude oil from the SPR, that such oil not be exported to China. According to the Department of Energy, in April 2022, the Biden Administration sold nearly one million barrels of SPR oil to Unipec America, a subsidiary of Sinopec, a company owned by the CCP, at $103.30 a barrel for a total of about $98 million dollars.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-stop-ever-growing-bureaucracy,"Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Stop Ever-Growing Bureaucracy, Burdensome Federal Regulations",2023-01-11,2023,2023-01,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act alongside Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL) and over 170 of his Republican colleagues. This legislation would require every “major rule” proposed by federal agencies be approved by Congress before going into effect. “Unelected bureaucrats in Washington D.C. have far too much unchecked and unaccountable power over the American people,” said Rep. Newhouse. “It is paramount that Congress fulfills its constitutional mandate and holds our federal agencies accountable. The REINS Act would restore Congress’ legislative authority and remove the excessive, costly, and job-killing regulations of the executive branch from off the backs of the American people.” Read the full text of the REINS Act here. Background: The REINS Act would require every “major rule” proposed by federal agencies to be approved by Congress before going into effect. “Major rule” is defined as any federal rule or regulation that may result in: an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more; a major increase in costs or prices for consumers, individual industries, government agencies, or geographic regions; or significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises. The bill would also provide a procedure for Congress to disapprove of all nonmajor rules.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-blocks-irs-blatantly-targeting-american-taxpayers,Newhouse Blocks IRS From Blatantly Targeting American Taxpayers,2023-01-09,2023,2023-01,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 23, the Family and Small Business Taxpayer Protection Act, legislation he introduced with Reps. Michelle Steel (R-CA) and Adrian Smith (R-NE). This legislation would defund the Biden administration’s plan to hire 87,000 new IRS agents, blocking their efforts to drastically increase audits on middle class families while preserving funding for customer service and I.T. modernization. “Families have been struggling with higher costs of gas, groceries, and heating for our homes due to one-Party rule in our nation’s capital,” said Rep. Newhouse. “To make matters worse, the Biden administration increased the IRS’ budget with funding specifically earmarked for “new audits and enforcement.” Our government should not be a weapon used against law-abiding citizens. That is why I introduced legislation to rescind the IRS’ funding for enforcement. I am pleased to see this legislation pass the House, marking an important step towards recovery for families in Central Washington.” Read the full text of the Family and Small Business Taxpayer Protection Act here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/what-they-are-saying-west-stands-newhouse-calling-out-biden,What They Are Saying: The West Stands with Newhouse in Calling Out the Biden Administration’s Disastrous WOTUS Rule,2023-01-05,2023,2023-01,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, blasted the Biden administration for its secretive release of a final “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule while the Supreme Court has yet to rule on a pending court case. Today, industry leaders and stakeholders in Central Washington issued the following statements about the devastating impacts this rule will have on rural communities: “While we’re disappointed in the governmental overreach and ambiguities in the new rule, we patiently anticipate a Supreme Court decision this year that will hopefully bring clarity and finality to this situation. Farmers and ranchers deserve more than to be political pawns of each new presidential administration.” — Rosella Mosby, State President, Washington Farm Bureau “The back-and-forth on WOTUS is confusing. Columbia Basin Project infrastructure in Washington State is subject to compliance with the final rule even though application to the Project is illogical. Major work on features like wasteways will be slowed unnecessarily with additional permitting requirements. The League is disappointed in this overreach—the consequences of poorly thought-through policymaking.” – Sara Higgins, Executive Director, Columbia Basin Development League “The release of the Final Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) while the U.S. Supreme Court is deliberating on the landmark case Sackett v. EPA is a thinly veiled attempt to address questions posed to the EPA during oral arguments to avoid a ruling in favor of landowners. The case focuses on the term “significant nexus”: how effected are downstream waters by upstream and/or adjacent activities and what does “adjacent” mean in the context of the Clean Water Act. The Final WOTUS Rule seeks to work as an end-run around the potential ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court by defining the bodies of water subject to WOTUS, clarifying what bodies of water are excluded from WOTUS jurisdiction, and creating a glossary of definitions. Rather than releasing the Final Rule ahead of the conclusion of Sackett v. EPA, which could significantly alter the language of WOTUS and its reach, the EPA and Corps would have better served the U.S. by waiting for the court’s decision. Potentially duplicating or revising work completed and released so recently when a court decision is expected this spring is a wasteful use of funds and may create more long-term confusion. If the court’s decision alters the Final WOTUS Rule, all documentation, public information, and other materials will have to be updated just a few short months from now and a new push to help stakeholders understand the rule will have to occur.” – Pam Lewison, Agriculture Research Director, Washington Policy Center “The Biden Administration is sowing more confusion in the long, drawn-out WOTUS saga. The Supreme Court is set to rule on the Sackett case that will provide clarity on what constitutes a Water of the United States by the end of this term, yet the administration is jumping the gun and issuing another rule. EPA can’t usurp a Supreme Court ruling and the interpretation isn’t going to be any more convincing to this court than other attempts, so what’s the point other than regulation for regulation’s sake?” – Kathleen Sgamma, President, Western Energy Alliance “Washington wheat farmers need clarity and certainty regarding federal and state regulations in order to successfully grow their crops, and we are concerned that federal jurisdiction leaves little room for decisions made by local, on-the-ground experts. We will continue to review the final rule to understand how it will impact our farmers going forward.” – Michelle Hennings, Executive Director, Washington Association of Wheat Growers “NMPF is disappointed that once again dairy farmers, who every day strive to be leaders in environmental stewardship, may need to live under a WOTUS rule that is cumbersome, unclear and overly complicated. Because the EPA’s most recent iteration fails to resolve what is now a 50-year struggle to define what constitutes a water body subject to federal regulation under the Clean Water Act, our members will face continued uncertainty as they attempt to comprehend and comply with unclear regulations.” – Jim Mulhern, President and CEO, National Milk Producers Federation Background: Last January, Rep. Newhouse called on the Biden Administration to terminate their proposed WOTUS rulemaking after the U.S. Supreme Court announced it would consider a case focused on the scope of the definition of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS). Rep. Newhouse hosted a podcast episode featuring Charles Yates of the Pacific Legal Foundation, one of the contributing lawyers in the Sackett v. EPA Supreme Court case, as well as Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL) and Illinois Farm Bureau President Rich Guebert, to discuss the impacts WOTUS has on rural communities and potential implications of the Supreme Court decision. Click here to listen. In July 2021, when the Biden Administration announced their intention to revise and remand the Trump Administration’s Navigable Waters Protection Rule, Rep. Newhouse led Western Caucus Members in a bicameral letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan and Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Jaime Pinkham to express their serious concerns and demand answers about the Administration’s plans to reopen the definition of “waters of the United States.” Click here to read the letter and learn more. Rep. Newhouse led Congressional Western Caucus Members in condemning the Biden Administration for publishing the rule ahead of the Supreme Court’s Sackett v. EPA decision. Click here to read more.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z