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://loudermilk.house.gov/news/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=3564,Bill to Help Non-Profit Organizations Goes to President Trumps Desk to be Signed,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga) issued the following statement after the Senate and House of Representatives passed his bill, the Building Up Independent Lives and Dreams (BUILD) Act: share: f t Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga) issued the following statement after the Senate and House of Representatives passed his bill, the Building Up Independent Lives and Dreams (BUILD) Act:It's great to see the BUILD Act on its way to the president's desk to be signed into law. The bipartisan support for this bill was overwhelming; and it's clear that many of my colleagues agree we should make it easier for charitable organizations to help those in need. This bill is a major help for non-profits, like Habitat for Humanity, which provide low-cost housing for needy families. The BUILD Act cuts government red-tape by reducing some of the overly burdensome regulations placed on charities through the Dodd-Frank Act. The difficulty and cost of compliance has been too much for some non-profits, causing them to spend more time doing regulatory paperwork and less time fulfilling their missions. The BUILD Act recognizes that these non-profit organizations operate under different business models than traditional financial institutions, and provides a simpler method for providing mortgage disclosures. Summary of the BUILD Act (S. 371): Allows Habitat for Humanity affiliates, and similar organizations, to choose whether to use the TRID loan estimate and closing disclosure form or use the less complex GFE, HUD-1, and TILA forms. You can view the text of this legislation by HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/news/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=3565,Rep. Loudermilk to Object to Georgia Electors in U.S. House of Representatives,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga) issued the following statement regarding the November 3rd election, and the certification of the electors for the Presidential election in the U.S. House on January 6, 2021:""Since the November 3rd election, I have received numerous reports of election irregularities, mismanagement of the election system, and multiple incidents of voter fraud. While contacting voters who needed to cure their absentee ballots just after the election, I and my team heard from several voters who reported that when they went to vote on Election Day, they were told they had already voted absentee, though they had not. Two weeks before the election, I received credible information that a Georgia-based non-profit group was actively calling residents of other states and encouraging them to register as Georgia voters. I reported this information, and the contact for my source, to the Georgia Secretary of State. Two weeks after the election, I found out that the informant had never been contacted by the Secretary of State's office. ""Over the past several weeks, I have been in contact with members of the Georgia General Assembly who have conducted hearings on potential voter fraud in the November general election. I have received hundreds of testimonies, affidavits, and witness accounts of voting irregularities, lack of ballot accountability, and violations of state election law. While I am fully supportive of Governor Brian Kemp and how he is leading Georgia during these trying times, I do not believe the Governor's office, nor the Secretary of State, have adequately answered the most significant claims of voter fraud and election mismanagement made by several individuals and entities. ""After weeks of researching Georgia's handling of the 2020 General Election, I have a reasonable and significant doubt that the electors selected to represent Georgia in the electoral college actually reflect the true will of the people of Georgia. Due to the many unanswered and credible charges of potential fraud, highly respected members of the State House and Senate have called for a special session to address the certification of Georgia's votes. However, no special session has been called. Therefore, on behalf of my colleagues in the Georgia General Assembly, I will be objecting to Georgia's electors when these votes are presented to the U.S. House of Representatives on January 6, 2021.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-austin-scott-statement-fy21-ndaa,Rep. Austin Scott Statement on FY21 NDAA,2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"TIFTON, GA Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), released the below statement on his vote to override President Trump's veto of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (FY21 NDAA), which authorizes spending for the Department of Defense. The NDAA is one of the most important pieces of legislation our body passes each year, as it pays our warfighters and provides them with the resourcesthey need to tackle their missions and return home safely. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee and as the grandson of a World War II POW, this is a task I take very seriously, said Rep. Austin Scott. President Trump ultimately vetoed the measure due the package not addressing concerns over Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which created federal immunity for providers and users of social media companies and generally prevents them from being held liable for hosting content that someone else created. While I believe the President is founded in his concerns over Section 230, it is in our nation's best interest to pass the NDAA to deliver much-needed resources to our men and women in uniform, including a 3% pay raise and critical resources for installations like Robins and Moody Air Force Bases in Georgia's Eighth District, said. Rep. Scott. Social media companies should be held accountable for their selective censorship and bias that in many cases impedes the First Amendment of American citizens, but this issue can and should be addressed separate from the defense bill. I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress and President Trump to address this measure. In November, Rep. Scott was chosen to serve on a conference committee which was charged with working through differences of the House and Senate versions of FY21 NDAA to comprise a final bill for passage. The final bill provided resources for Robins and Moody Air Forces Bases in Georgia's Eighth District, as well as a 3% pay raise for troops and resources to help the Department of Defense combat COVID-19. Click here to read more. In July, Rep. Scott joined FOX and Friends First to discuss the FY21 NDAA and the President's intention to veto the legislation and the importance of deliver a defense bill for the Department of Defense. You can click here to watch the interview. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=66B4E161-F01B-492B-A314-B07DF4823BC4,Rep. Austin Scott Statement on FY21 NDAA,2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"TIFTON, GA – Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), released the below statement on his vote to override President Trump’s veto of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (FY21 NDAA), which authorizes spending for the Department of Defense. “The NDAA is one of the most important pieces of legislation our body passes each year, as it pays our warfighters and provides them with the resources they need to tackle their missions and return home safely. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee and as the grandson of a World War II POW, this is a task I take very seriously,” said Rep. Austin Scott. President Trump ultimately vetoed the measure due the package not addressing concerns over Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which created federal immunity for providers and users of social media companies and generally prevents them from being held liable for hosting content that someone else created. “While I believe the President is founded in his concerns over Section 230, it is in our nation’s best interest to pass the NDAA to deliver much-needed resources to our men and women in uniform, including a 3% pay raise and critical resources for installations like Robins and Moody Air Force Bases in Georgia’s Eighth District,” said. Rep. Scott. “Social media companies should be held accountable for their selective censorship and bias that in many cases impedes the First Amendment of American citizens, but this issue can and should be addressed separate from the defense bill. I look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress and President Trump to address this measure.” In November, Rep. Scott was chosen to serve on a conference committee which was charged with working through differences of the House and Senate versions of FY21 NDAA to comprise a final bill for passage. The final bill provided resources for Robins and Moody Air Forces Bases in Georgia’s Eighth District, as well as a 3% pay raise for troops and resources to help the Department of Defense combat COVID-19. Click here to read more. In July, Rep. Scott joined “FOX and Friends First” to discuss the FY21 NDAA and the President’s intention to veto the legislation and the importance of deliver a defense bill for the Department of Defense. You can click here to watch the interview. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D5591622-5DC2-41BC-BDE5-CA8FB264B275,Rep. Lucy McBath Announces Winners of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge,2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-supports-cash-act-desperately-needed-relief,"Congressman Johnson Supports CASH Act, Desperately Needed Relief for Families",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) returned to Washington this week to vote on a stand-alone bill to increase economic impact payments to $2,000 for Americans struggling during the pandemic. The bill passed the House 275-134 and now goes to the Senate. ""There's a light at the end of the tunnel, but until we get there Americans struggling to pay rent, put food on the table and stay healthy need our help,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""This money will go a long way in helping make people whole during this difficult time."" House and Senate Democrats have repeatedly called for larger direct payments for the American people. Unfortunately, House and Senate Republicans have repeatedly rejected this proposal, both during negotiations on the omnibus package and on Christmas Eve, when they blocked an attempt to pass today's bill by unanimous consent. House Overrides Trump NDAA Veto The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) has consistently been passed on a bipartisan, bicameral basis for 60 years – the President's reckless veto harms our troops, their families, and our veterans. It also blocks hazard pay for troops, stops a provision that renames confederate bases, and stymies new paid parental leave initiatives. ""The House will do its part to protect the safety of our servicemembers and the security our Nation as we vote to override the President's veto,"" said Rep. Johnson. The House voted to reject the President's veto of the NDAA. It now heads to the Senate, which also must pass the veto override with a 2/3 or greater majority.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-supports-cash-act-desperately-needed-relief-families,"Congressman Johnson Supports CASH Act, Desperately Needed Relief for Families",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) returned to Washington this week to vote on a stand-alone bill to increase economic impact payments to $2,000 for Americans struggling during the pandemic. The bill passed the House 275-134 and now goes to the Senate. There's a light at the end of the tunnel, but until we get there Americans struggling to pay rent, put food on the table and stay healthy need our help, said Rep. Johnson. This money will go a long way in helping make people whole during this difficult time. House and Senate Democrats have repeatedly called for larger direct payments for the American people. Unfortunately, House and Senate Republicans have repeatedly rejected this proposal, both during negotiations on the omnibus package and on Christmas Eve, when they blocked an attempt to pass today's bill by unanimous consent. House Overrides Trump NDAA Veto The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) has consistently been passed on a bipartisan, bicameral basis for 60 years the President's reckless veto harms our troops, their families, and our veterans. It also blocks hazard pay for troops, stops a provision that renames confederate bases, and stymies new paid parental leave initiatives. The House will do its part to protect the safety of our servicemembers and the security our Nation as we vote to override the President's veto, said Rep. Johnson. The House voted to reject the President's veto of the NDAA. It now heads to the Senate, which also must pass the veto override with a 2/3 or greater majority. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/news/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=3563,Rep. Loudermilk Votes Against Veto Override of NDAA; Stands with the President,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Loudermilk Votes Against Veto Override of NDAA; Stands with the President f t # e Washington, December 28, 2020 Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga) issued the following statement after he voted against the veto override of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021:I had some reservations with certain provisions in the NDAA; but, as a veteran, I felt responsible to ensure our national defense and military were properly funded, which is why I voted for the NDAA earlier this month. However, no one has a better pulse on the security of this nation and our military than the President of the United States, and I believe his objections to the bill are reasonable and intended to protect all Americans. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8138A913-B822-4290-96D4-7E79A9816D22,McBath Votes to Approve CASH Act and Provide Needed Relief to American Families,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2712FC29-8533-4FBE-8AF2-40A7B8E0ECFE,McBath Announces Service Academy Nominations,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-secures-non-emergency-medical-transportation-for-medicaid,BISHOP SECURES NON-EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION FOR MEDICAID RECIPIENTS,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"COLUMBUS, GA Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, released the following statement after legislation to enshrine the Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) benefit in the Medicaid law was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 133): The NEMT Medicaid benefit, which had been mandatory by regulation since 1966, was in danger of becoming optional under a Trump Administration regulation. Thousands of Medicaid patients in Georgia and across the nation who relied upon NEMT to transport them to and from health services such as dialysis and COVID-19 testing would have been placed at risk if the benefit had been eliminated. By codifying NEMT under the Medicaid statute, we can rest assured that the benefit will remain protected now and into the future. The NEMT provisions in the Fiscal Year 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act are substantially similar to those in the Protecting Patients Transportation to Care Act (H.R. 3935), which Congressman Bishop introduced with Representatives Buddy Carter (R-GA), Tony Cardenas (D-CA), and Tom Graves (R-GA). H.R. 3935 had been unanimously approved by the United States House of Representatives in September 2020. Medicaid NEMT provides over 100 million rides annually to medical appointments for Medicaid beneficiaries who do not have their own means of transportation. The benefit is used primarily by people with chronic conditions including end-stage renal disease, substance use disorder, and AIDS. These patients who depend on NEMT for access to life-sustaining medical services such as chemotherapy, dialysis, and medication-assisted addiction treatment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, NEMT providers also are repurposing their businesses to deliver meals, groceries, and medical supplies to beneficiaries who are at high risk of COVID-19 infection if they leave their homes.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-secures-non-emergency-medical-transportation-for-medicaid-recipients,BISHOP SECURES NON-EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION FOR MEDICAID RECIPIENTS,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, GA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, released the following statement after legislation to enshrine the Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) benefit in the Medicaid law was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 133): ""The NEMT Medicaid benefit, which had been mandatory by regulation since 1966, was in danger of becoming optional under a Trump Administration regulation. Thousands of Medicaid patients in Georgia and across the nation who relied upon NEMT to transport them to and from health services such as dialysis and COVID-19 testing would have been placed at risk if the benefit had been eliminated. By codifying NEMT under the Medicaid statute, we can rest assured that the benefit will remain protected now and into the future."" The NEMT provisions in the Fiscal Year 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act are substantially similar to those in the Protecting Patients Transportation to Care Act (H.R. 3935), which Congressman Bishop introduced with Representatives Buddy Carter (R-GA), Tony Cardenas (D-CA), and Tom Graves (R-GA). H.R. 3935 had been unanimously approved by the United States House of Representatives in September 2020. Medicaid NEMT provides over 100 million rides annually to medical appointments for Medicaid beneficiaries who do not have their own means of transportation. The benefit is used primarily by people with chronic conditions including end-stage renal disease, substance use disorder, and AIDS. These patients who depend on NEMT for access to life-sustaining medical services such as chemotherapy, dialysis, and medication-assisted addiction treatment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, NEMT providers also are repurposing their businesses to deliver meals, groceries, and medical supplies to beneficiaries who are at high risk of COVID-19 infection if they leave their homes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://ferguson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3158,Ferguson Votes for Targeted COVID Relief,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,A. Ferguson,F000465,ferguson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Drew Ferguson (R-Ga.) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 133, the Consolidated Appropriations Act. This bill will provide approximately $900 billion for COVID relief of which $429 billion is repurposed from unused funds included in the CARES Act enacted in March. The bill also provides funding for the federal government for the remainder of the fiscal year within previously established budget caps.Led by Speaker Pelosi, Congressional Democrats have for months withheld relief from families and small businesses in desperate need of assistance. What we passed today was necessary to bring targeted relief to Americans during these unprecedented times. By reforming how rural health clinics are paid and giving rural hospitals the tools they need to thrive, this bill will significantly improve health care in rural and underserved areas. Urgently needed funding for rural hospitals and our children's hospitals as well as $8.75 billion for vaccine distribution was included. Operation Warp Speed has brought forth two safe and effective vaccines. The tools are now there for Americans to receive a vaccine if they feel it is right for them and their family. Another issue that is incredibly important to Georgians in the Third District is broadband. I am pleased that $300 million in funding for rural broadband was included which is urgently needed to ensure rural areas have access to telemedicine, mental health services, and the same economic, educational, and workforce opportunities as do those in urban and suburban areas. The relief package also appropriately includes over $280 billion in additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which has been the lifeline for many small businesses throughout the pandemic. We fought for extending key tax provisions and reversed the ridiculous IRS ruling which would have prevented small businesses from deducting expenses paid with PPP loans. The intent of Congress was to help small businesses and their employees survive through the pandemic. It was never the intent to hit them with a tax burden. Reversing this ruling will ensure small businesses are helped and not hurt by the PPP loans. I was proud to see the solution to end surprise medical billing in this package. All too often, patients are weighed down with a surprise medical bill following an emergency room visit. This provision will ensure patients are held harmless from these bills saving healthcare patients $11.5 billion. It is an important step in bringing transparency to the healthcare system which is so desperately needed. The government funding sections provide full funding for the Department of Defense and a 3% pay raise for our troops. Also funded are many priorities critically important to Georgia, including $93.6 million for the Port of Savannah, funding for the Georgia Department of Transportation, 8 C-130J and 96 F-35 aircraft, and $5.5 billion for rural electric improvements. As this bill sensibly addresses the needs forced by the pandemic and strengthens our national security, funds the border wall, protects and modernizes our nuclear weapons stockpile, maintains all pro-life protections, and forces the Democrats to walk away from many radical socialist policies that would have been harmful poison pills, it received my support.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-extends-hand-americans-struggling-pay-power-bills,Congressman Johnson Extends Hand to Americans Struggling to Pay Power Bills,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Hank Johnson's (D-GA) Preventing Termination of Utility Services in Bankruptcy Act became law today when it passed both Houses of Congress and was expected to be signed by the president as part of the 2021 Omnibus spending package. The bill, which Congressman Johnson took over from retiring Congressman Conyers in 2018, would end the practice of utility companies forcing individuals to pay additional assurances simply because they have filed for bankruptcy. Amidst a worsening winter pandemic with millions of Americans struggling to pay rent, bills and put food on the table, Rep. Johnson's bill protects consumers from having to pay additional fees to keep their lights on and ensures that they are less likely to have their utilities suspended. Millions of low-income Americans and seniors across the United States struggle to pay their utilities and some even have their electricity shut off during the coldest time of the year. Lack of access to electricity presents serious health concerns, including heat stroke, dehydration, and hypothermia. ""People are really hurting out here and during these cold winter months, with a pandemic expected to grow worse before things get better, the least we can do as lawmakers is protect people from getting their power cut off just because they're in bankruptcy,"" said Johnson. ""Attempts by utility companies to extract additional fees from customers in bankruptcy endangers Americans, particularly in the summer and winter months. This practice needs to end."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-s-bipartisan-bicameral-trademark-modernization-act,"Congressman Johnsons Bipartisan, Bicameral Trademark Modernization Act Becomes Law",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Hank Johnson's (D-GA) Trademark Modernization (TM) Act of 2020 (H.R. 6196/S. 3449), bipartisan, bicameral legislation to give the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office tools to address recent significant increases in fraudulent trademark filings became law today when it passed both Houses of Congress and was signed by the president as part of the 2021 Omnibus spending package. The bill was introduced in March along with Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Congressman Doug Collins (R-GA) and Congresswoman Martha Roby (R-AL), and Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Senator Chris Coons (D-DE). In particular, the bill provides options to combat an influx of trademark applications from China that rely on doctored photographs to procure trademark registrations. The TM Act would also help to ensure that in trademark infringement cases, courts issue appropriate remedies to ensure that confusingly similar trademarks do not remain in the marketplace, because that can undermine a core function of the trademark systemto help ensure that customers can look at a trademark and reliably know who is selling them a given good or service. The Trademark Modernization Act is the first significant update to U.S. trademark laws in some time, said Congressman Johnson (GA). The Lanham Act was enacted in 1946. It is critical that we update the law to respond to contemporary concerns when they arise. Consumers and brand owners rely on trademark laws for confidence in the products they buy and sell. I am pleased to have worked with Representatives Nadler, Collins, and Roby, and Senators Tillis and Coons on this bi-partisan effort to combat fraud in the trademark system, and to ensure that brand owners and consumers are properly protected under the law, said Congressman Johnson. Consumers rely on trademarks to purchase products and services from sources they trust, said Sen. Chris Coons (DE). I am concerned that the recent flood of fraudulent trademark filings, many of which originate in China, have frustrated legitimate branding efforts by U.S. companies. Meanwhile, owners of trademarks for authentic products face unreasonable hurdles when trying to block the use of confusingly similar marks that would mislead the public including dangerous counterfeit products from China. I am proud that Congress passed this bipartisan, bicameral bill that will address both of these problems and modernize our trademark system. I applaud my colleagues in the House and Senate for including the Trademark Modernization Act in the year-end spending package and agreeing that modernizing the United States trademark system to better protect American consumers and brand owners is a priority, said Sen. Thom Tillis (NC). Earlier this year, I proudly co-introduced this bipartisan, bicameral legislation that will modernize the trademark system and make changes that protect small businesses and consumers across North Carolina. This much-needed update will help combat fraudulent trademark registrations coming from China and move our trademark system into the 21st century. The TM Act will: Create new expedited ex parte cancellation procedures that would allow a new-market entrant or other third party to request cancellation of a trademark registration when the mark was never used or was not used before registration. The new procedures offer options in addition to traditional inter partes cancellation, which is often a time-consuming and expensive process. Codify additional trademark examination procedures, which gives the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office flexibility and additional authority to gather evidence during examination. Clarify that, notwithstanding the Supreme Court's decision in a patent case, eBay, Inc. v. MercExchange LLC, a rebuttable presumption of irreparable harm exists for trademark violations. Clarify that the Director of the Patent and Trademark Office has the authority to reconsider decisions of the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. A section-by-section analysis of the bill can be found here. A one-pager on the bill can be found here. Text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnsons-bipartisan-bicameral-trademark-modernization-act,"Congressman Johnson’s Bipartisan, Bicameral Trademark Modernization Act Becomes Law",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Hank Johnson's (D-GA) Trademark Modernization (TM) Act of 2020 (H.R. 6196/S. 3449), bipartisan, bicameral legislation to give the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office tools to address recent significant increases in fraudulent trademark filings became law today when it passed both Houses of Congress and was expected to be signed by the president as part of the 2021 Omnibus spending package. The bill was introduced in March along with Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Congressman Doug Collins (R-GA) and Congresswoman Martha Roby (R-AL), and Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Senator Chris Coons (D-DE). In particular, the bill provides options to combat an influx of trademark applications from China that rely on doctored photographs to procure trademark registrations. The TM Act would also help to ensure that in trademark infringement cases, courts issue appropriate remedies to ensure that confusingly similar trademarks do not remain in the marketplace, because that can undermine a core function of the trademark system—to help ensure that customers can look at a trademark and reliably know who is selling them a given good or service. ""The Trademark Modernization Act is the first significant update to U.S. trademark laws in some time,"" said Congressman Johnson (GA). ""The Lanham Act was enacted in 1946. It is critical that we update the law to respond to contemporary concerns when they arise."" ""Consumers and brand owners rely on trademark laws for confidence in the products they buy and sell. I am pleased to have worked with Representatives Nadler, Collins, and Roby, and Senators Tillis and Coons on this bi-partisan effort to combat fraud in the trademark system, and to ensure that brand owners and consumers are properly protected under the law,"" said Congressman Johnson. ""Consumers rely on trademarks to purchase products and services from sources they trust,"" said Sen. Chris Coons (DE). ""I am concerned that the recent flood of fraudulent trademark filings, many of which originate in China, have frustrated legitimate branding efforts by U.S. companies. Meanwhile, owners of trademarks for authentic products face unreasonable hurdles when trying to block the use of confusingly similar marks that would mislead the public – including dangerous counterfeit products from China. I am proud that Congress passed this bipartisan, bicameral bill that will address both of these problems and modernize our trademark system."" ""I applaud my colleagues in the House and Senate for including the Trademark Modernization Act in the year-end spending package and agreeing that modernizing the United States trademark system to better protect American consumers and brand owners is a priority,"" said Sen. Thom Tillis (NC). ""Earlier this year, I proudly co-introduced this bipartisan, bicameral legislation that will modernize the trademark system and make changes that protect small businesses and consumers across North Carolina. This much-needed update will help combat fraudulent trademark registrations coming from China and move our trademark system into the 21st century."" The TM Act will: Create new expedited ex parte cancellation procedures that would allow a new-market entrant or other third party to request cancellation of a trademark registration when the mark was never used or was not used before registration. The new procedures offer options in addition to traditional inter partes cancellation, which is often a time-consuming and expensive process. Codify additional trademark examination procedures, which gives the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office flexibility and additional authority to gather evidence during examination. Clarify that, notwithstanding the Supreme Court's decision in a patent case, eBay, Inc. v. MercExchange LLC, a rebuttable presumption of irreparable harm exists for trademark violations. Clarify that the Director of the Patent and Trademark Office has the authority to reconsider decisions of the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. A section-by-section analysis of the bill can be found here. A one-pager on the bill can be found here. Text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399464,"Congressman David Scott Votes to Deliver Urgent COVID-19 Relief For Georgia Families, Workers and Small Businesses",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today Congressman David Scott (GA-13) voted to pass the Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020, a bipartisan legislative package that provides $900 billion in federal funding for families, unemployed workers, small businesses, hospitals and schools in Georgia and across the country. After months of delay and inaction, I am pleased to see Congress finally take action and deliver badly needed assistance for the American people, said Congressman Scott. Sadly, more than 317,000 Americans have lost their lives to COVID-19, and the livelihoods of millions of Americans have been completely upended by this pandemic. Help is on the way to save lives and the livelihoods of Americans struggling during the pandemic. This relief measure provides critical funding for accelerated vaccine distribution, a new round of stimulus payments, extended unemployment assistance, rental assistance, increased food assistance, and aid for small businesses. Scott continued, I'm also proud to see that my bill, H.R. 8620, was included in the Coronavirus Relief Act. This bill will help small businesses utilize Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds to make needed technological improvements in order to help them keep their doors open during this public health and economic crisis. The Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020 will deliver immediate assistance by: Accelerating free and equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. Providing Direct Stimulus Payments of $600 for American adults and children. Provides unemployed individuals with an additional $300 per week for 10 weeks through the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program. Delivering $25 billion for Rental Assistance to expand housing stability. $13 billion to address rising hunger with temporary increase for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits and other food assistance programs. Supporting small businesses and restaurants through $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans. Extending the Payroll Support Program for frontline aviation workers. $14 billion for Transit Emergency Relief to support both rural and urban transit agencies. Bolsteringfarmers, ranchers, and growers through extended Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) payments. Expandingbroadband access and telehealth services for rural communities. Education and Child Care assistance to help schools and colleges mitigate virus transmission and to help parents get back to work. To view the complete text of the Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020, click here. Additionally, a one-page fact sheet on Coronavirus relief and section-by-section summary on Coronavirus relief are available online.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4579,Rep. Allen: Relief Is On The Way,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Rick Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Allen: Relief Is On The Way f t # e Washington, December 21, 2020 Congressman Rick W. Allen (R-GA-12) today released the following statement after voting in support of the Bipartisan-Bicameral Omnibus & COVID Relief Deal: After months of unnecessary delay from Congressional Democrats who put partisan, presidential politics over the American people, COVID-19 relief is finally on its way to workers and families. As our nation continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic and Americans are hurting by no fault of their own, I continue to prioritize targeted relief for small businesses, making Operation Warp Speed vaccines widely available, and reopening our schools and the economy. While the package is far from perfect and I am irritated by this entire process, it delivers on these urgent goals while denying the Democrats' liberal wish list demands like direct payments for illegal immigrants and federal prisoner release. The COVID-19 relief package utilizes unused PPP funds to continue helping small businesses and workers, and additionally rescinds $429 billion in unused funding that could have gone to blue state bailouts. The net total is approximately $325 billion a fraction compared to Speaker Pelosi's $3.4 trillion Heroes 1 and $2.4 trillion Heroes 2 packages. Highlights of the COVID-19 relief package: Providing Small Business Relief Provides over $280 billion to reopen and strengthen the Paycheck Protection Program Creates a simplified PPP loan forgiveness application for loans under $150,000 dollars Allows employers to deduct PPP related businesses expenses Extends the repayment period of deferred payroll taxes through December 31, 2021. Penalties and interest on deferred unpaid tax liability will not accrue until January 1, 2022. Producing and Distributing COVID-19 Vaccines Provides nearly $20 billion for the production of vaccines and therapeutics, covering the cost for everyone who needs it Provides $8.75 billion for distribution of vaccines Provides $3 billion for the national stockpile Supporting our Working Families and Students Provides $10 billion in Child Care and Development Block Grant Program Provides direct payments of $600 per individual/child ($1,200 per married couple) Extends the refundable payroll tax credit for the mandated paid sick and family leave through March 2021 for employers that continue to offer paid Provides $82 billion for the Education Stabilization Fund Helping our Farmers and Ranchers Provides $13 billion in support to farmers, ranchers, and the agriculture sector Expanding Rural Broadband Provides $1.9 billion for the rip-and-replace program for communications providers with 10,000,000 subscribers or less to replace equipment in their communications networks that poses a national security threat. Provides $300 million for broadband deployment program to support broadband infrastructure deployment, prioritizing unserved areas and rural areas. Provides $250 million to the FCC to carry out the temporary telehealth pilot program authorized under the CARES Act Ending Surprise Medical Billing Ensures properly insured patients do not end up with costly, unexpected charges after going to a hospital or other health care provider Allows for independent arbitration and dispute resolution between the insurer and provider, leaving the patient out of the process No threshold for arbitration. No government rate-setting Highlights of the Fiscal Year 2021 Appropriations Package: Includes ALL pro-life protections Prioritizes our military and modernizes our nuclear stockpile Funds the border wall Retains longstanding Second Amendment protections Rejects Democrat poison pills to defund the police Provides $80 million for Department of Defense Fort Gordon Individual Training Barracks Complex, Phase 3 Includes robust funding for the critical missions at Savannah River Site Provides $93.6 million for Corps of Engineers Savannah Harbor Expansion Project f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-austin-scott-votes-extended-covid-19-relief-small-businesses-georgia,"Rep. Austin Scott Votes for Extended COVID-19 Relief for Small Businesses, Georgia Families",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today,Representatives Austin Scott (GA-08) released the below statement upon House passage of the Bipartisan-Bicameral Omnibus and COVID Relief Deal, which will provide extended relief for Georgia families and small businesses negatively impacted by COVID-19. After months of needless waiting, the American people can rest a little easier knowing that extended COVID-19 relief is on the way. This legislative package, which includes money for routine government operations as well as extended COVID-19 relief, is a bipartisan-bicameral compromise that meets many Republican priorities to help American families, small businesses, and states continue to combat COVID-19 and get our economy back on track. While not perfect, I'm satisfied with the package and will continue to work to provide resources for those struggling with the impacts of the virus, said Rep. Austin Scott. This COVID-19 relief package is approximately $900 billion, or a net of approximately $325 billion after rescinding $429 billion in Federal Reserve 13(3) authority and repurposing unused Paycheck Protection Program funds, compared to the $3.3 trillion spending in Heroes 1 (H.R. 6800) and $2.4 trillion in Heroes 2 (H.R. 925). Key COVID-19 relief provisions: Small Business Relief: Extends the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and adds deductibility for PPP expenses Gives businesses experiencing severe revenue reductions an opportunity to apply for a second draw PPP loan Includes 501(c)(6) organizations but excludes unions from eligibility $15 billion in funding for entertainment venues, movie theaters, and museums that are experiencing significant revenue loss Codifies federal rules that ensure churches and faith-based organizations are eligible for PPP loans Vaccine Assistance: $20 billion for purchase of vaccines that will make the vaccine available at no charge for anyone who needs it $8 billion for vaccine distribution $20 billion to assist states with testing $20 billion distribution from existing provider relief fund Stimulus checks: $600 for both adults and dependents Unemployment Assistance: Temporarily extends a number of unemployment programs created by the CARES Act (H.R. 748) that expire Dec. 31, 2020 and provides unemployed individuals an additional $300 per week for 10 weeks from December 26, 2020 through March 14, 2021 Schools and Childcare Centers: $10 billion for grants to childcare centers to help providers safely reopen $82 billion in funding for schools and universities to assist with reopening for in-person learning Housing: $25 billion in temporary and targeted rental assistance for individuals who lost their source of income during the pandemic and extends the eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021 Transportation and Infrastructure: $7 billion in broadband funding that includes: Nearly $2 billion to replace foreign manufactured broadband equipment that poses national security threats $300 million to build out rural broadband $250 million for telehealth $45 billion for transportation, including: $16 billion for another round of airline employee and contractor payroll support $14 billion for transit $10 billion for highways $2 billion for intercity buses $2 billion for airports $1 billion for Amtrak Food and Agriculture Assistance: Increases SNAP benefits by 15% for six months, but does not expand eligibility, and requires the Secretary of Agriculture to issue a report on redemption rate and unexpended balances Provides funding for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, a program that serves over 700,000 older Americans monthly $13 billion to support our farmers and agriculture sector Enhances assistance under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) to support specialty crop, non-specialty crop, livestock, dairy, and poultry producers Gives discretionary authority to the Secretary to support producers of biofuels, producers of organics or value-added products, and timber harvesting and hauling businesses Additional funding is directed to programs that support local producers and new and beginning farmers, dairy producers, dairy processors via reimbursement for donated dairy products, fisheries, textile mills, agricultural research, small and medium size meat processors, and to state departments of agriculture for farm stress programs Key Omnibus Provisions: Provides our military with the resources to defend our nation and advance U.S. national security Includes a 3% pay raise for the troops and provides the resources to continue rebuild our military, deter adversaries, and defend our national security interests Includes $11 million for the E-8 Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS), that are based at Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, Georgia Provides the Trump Administration flexibility to build the wall and manage detention needs along the border $1.375 billion in new funding for the wall and additional funding for border security technology and enforcement $20 million for new border processing coordinators Protects the President's authority to use funds for immigration and border law enforcement actions Increases funding for House Republican priorities, such as continuing support for our law enforcement, NASA, maintaining our nuclear deterrent, and an all-of-the-above energy strategy Rejects Democrat efforts to defund the police and provides strong support for our nation's federal, state, and local law enforcement Prioritizes funding to protect national security interests, enhance school safety, advance scientific research and exploration, and combatting the opioid epidemic Preserves pro-life protections and other conservative riders in current law Prohibits federal funds from being used to pay for abortions except in cases of rape, incest, or life endangerment of the mother Prohibits the creation or destruction of embryos for research purposes Protects the Trump Administration's Title X Family Planning regulations Maintains the Hyde Amendment, Tiahrt Amendment, Helms Amendment, Dickey Amendment, and Kemp-Kasten Amendment Other Key Matters: Extends important public health programs for three years, including community health centers - eliminating several funding cliffs over next several years Ends surprise medical billing True and honest cost estimate for patients three days prior to scheduled procedure Arbitration independent dispute resolution process with no benchmark rate and multiple factors (but not government program reimbursement rates) which can be considered in arbitration process Supports Front Line Health Care Providers by injecting billions of dollars into Medicare physician pay in 2021 and heading off payment cuts due to be enacted next year Improves support for Rural and Underserved Health Care Energy package includes Republican priorities such as promoting carbon capture and utilization, ending reliance on critical minerals from foreign countries, and creating commercial opportunities for advanced nuclear technologies. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=891D7D4C-000A-469C-AC64-F9977957F7CF,"Rep. Austin Scott Votes for Extended COVID-19 Relief for Small Businesses, Georgia Families",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC ­– Today, Representatives Austin Scott (GA-08) released the below statement upon House passage of the Bipartisan-Bicameral Omnibus and COVID Relief Deal, which will provide extended relief for Georgia families and small businesses negatively impacted by COVID-19. “After months of needless waiting, the American people can rest a little easier knowing that extended COVID-19 relief is on the way. This legislative package, which includes money for routine government operations as well as extended COVID-19 relief, is a bipartisan-bicameral compromise that meets many Republican priorities to help American families, small businesses, and states continue to combat COVID-19 and get our economy back on track. While not perfect, I’m satisfied with the package and will continue to work to provide resources for those struggling with the impacts of the virus,” said Rep. Austin Scott. This COVID-19 relief package is approximately $900 billion, or a net of approximately $325 billion after rescinding $429 billion in Federal Reserve 13(3) authority and repurposing unused Paycheck Protection Program funds, compared to the $3.3 trillion spending in Heroes 1 (H.R. 6800) and $2.4 trillion in Heroes 2 (H.R. 925). Key COVID-19 relief provisions: Small Business Relief: Extends the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and adds deductibility for PPP expenses Gives businesses experiencing severe revenue reductions an opportunity to apply for a second draw PPP loan Includes 501(c)(6) organizations but excludes unions from eligibility $15 billion in funding for entertainment venues, movie theaters, and museums that are experiencing significant revenue loss Codifies federal rules that ensure churches and faith-based organizations are eligible for PPP loans Vaccine Assistance: $20 billion for purchase of vaccines that will make the vaccine available at no charge for anyone who needs it $8 billion for vaccine distribution $20 billion to assist states with testing $20 billion distribution from existing provider relief fund Stimulus checks: $600 for both adults and dependents Unemployment Assistance: Temporarily extends a number of unemployment programs created by the CARES Act (H.R. 748) that expire Dec. 31, 2020 and provides unemployed individuals an additional $300 per week for 10 weeks from December 26, 2020 through March 14, 2021 Schools and Childcare Centers: $10 billion for grants to childcare centers to help providers safely reopen $82 billion in funding for schools and universities to assist with reopening for in-person learning Housing: $25 billion in temporary and targeted rental assistance for individuals who lost their source of income during the pandemic and extends the eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021 Transportation and Infrastructure: $7 billion in broadband funding that includes: Nearly $2 billion to replace foreign manufactured broadband equipment that poses national security threats $300 million to build out rural broadband $250 million for telehealth $45 billion for transportation, including: $16 billion for another round of airline employee and contractor payroll support $14 billion for transit $10 billion for highways $2 billion for intercity buses $2 billion for airports $1 billion for Amtrak Food and Agriculture Assistance: Increases SNAP benefits by 15% for six months, but does not expand eligibility, and requires the Secretary of Agriculture to issue a report on redemption rate and unexpended balances Provides funding for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, a program that serves over 700,000 older Americans monthly $13 billion to support our farmers and agriculture sector Enhances assistance under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) to support specialty crop, non-specialty crop, livestock, dairy, and poultry producers Gives discretionary authority to the Secretary to support producers of biofuels, producers of organics or value-added products, and timber harvesting and hauling businesses Additional funding is directed to programs that support local producers and new and beginning farmers, dairy producers, dairy processors via reimbursement for donated dairy products, fisheries, textile mills, agricultural research, small and medium size meat processors, and to state departments of agriculture for farm stress programs Key Omnibus Provisions: Provides our military with the resources to defend our nation and advance U.S. national security Includes a 3% pay raise for the troops and provides the resources to continue rebuild our military, deter adversaries, and defend our national security interests Includes $11 million for the E-8 Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS), that are based at Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, Georgia Provides the Trump Administration flexibility to build the wall and manage detention needs along the border $1.375 billion in new funding for the wall and additional funding for border security technology and enforcement $20 million for new border processing coordinators Protects the President’s authority to use funds for immigration and border law enforcement actions Increases funding for House Republican priorities, such as continuing support for our law enforcement, NASA, maintaining our nuclear deterrent, and an all-of-the-above energy strategy Rejects Democrat efforts to defund the police and provides strong support for our nation’s federal, state, and local law enforcement Prioritizes funding to protect national security interests, enhance school safety, advance scientific research and exploration, and combatting the opioid epidemic Preserves pro-life protections and other conservative riders in current law Prohibits federal funds from being used to pay for abortions except in cases of rape, incest, or life endangerment of the mother Prohibits the creation or destruction of embryos for research purposes Protects the Trump Administration’s Title X Family Planning regulations Maintains the Hyde Amendment, Tiahrt Amendment, Helms Amendment, Dickey Amendment, and Kemp-Kasten Amendment Other Key Matters: Extends important public health programs for three years, including community health centers - eliminating several funding cliffs over next several years Ends surprise medical billing True and honest cost estimate for patients three days prior to scheduled procedure Arbitration – independent dispute resolution process with no benchmark rate and multiple factors (but not government program reimbursement rates) which can be considered in arbitration process Supports Front Line Health Care Providers by injecting billions of dollars into Medicare physician pay in 2021 and heading off payment cuts due to be enacted next year Improves support for Rural and Underserved Health Care Energy package includes Republican priorities such as promoting carbon capture and utilization, ending reliance on critical minerals from foreign countries, and creating commercial opportunities for advanced nuclear technologies. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-calls-for-more-covid-19-relief-says-to-do-nothing-is-a,BISHOP CALLS FOR MORE COVID-19 RELIEFSAYS TO DO NOTHING IS A DERELICTION OF DUTY,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"COLUMBUS, GA Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, released the following statement regarding the passage of H.R. 133, the emergency COVID-19 relief and the FY21 funding bill by the full U.S House of Representatives: Georgia is long overdue for more COVID-19 relief, which is why I supported this bill even though I think it does not provide sufficient direct payments, unemployment benefits, or funding for state, local, and tribal governments. In the House, we passed the Heroes Act in two different forms in hopes the Senate Majority Leader would understand the urgency of more aid for the American people. Unfortunately, he rejected our bills containing $1200 direct payments, $600 per week unemployment benefits, and $436 billion for state, local, and tribal governmentsand instead sought to protect the ultra-wealthy and hang working families out to dry. It is unacceptable and heartless. However insufficient I find this relief proposal; it is still better than nothing. If it had been up to the Senate Republicans, Georgians would have received nothing. People are struggling more now than at the beginning of this pandemicto do nothing is a dereliction of duty. In the House, we continued to fight for Americans everywhere who continue to struggle through this pandemic. We were able to negotiate $600 direct payments, $300 weekly unemployment payments, increased nutrition assistance, rental assistance, and an extension of the eviction moratorium. The bill replenishes the Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses and recognizes we will not be able to revive our economy until we get this virus under control. This bill will accelerate free vaccine distribution to as many Americans as soon as possible, as well as increase testing and tracing efforts so we can finally crush the virus. Though I am critical of the COVID-19 relief, I am very pleased with the FY 21 funding bills as a whole. We made many strong investments in the future of the American people, for the pandemic and beyond. I will continue to fight for more relief for our citizens, state and local governments, and small businesses as we move into the next Congress. The COVID-19 section: Provides $600 direct payments per adult and child Enhanced $300 weekly unemployment benefits Extends the eviction moratorium and provides rental assistance Accelerates vaccine distribution and crushes the coronavirus Increases SNAP and child nutrition benefits Delivers key tax benefits for struggling families Strong support for small businesseswith replenished Paycheck Protection Program Funds education, childcare, and students Delivers and improves affordable broadband access Secures key funding streams for state, local, tribal, and territorial governments Creates good-paying jobs in clean energy and infrastructure to fight the climate crisis Ends surprise billing Supports the global fight against COVID The FY21 Funding Bill: Expands broadband access for rural communities Provides pathways to better schools Supports servicemembers and military families Honors our responsibilities to veterans Supports hardworking taxpayers Expands access to housing Tackles food insecurity Keeps our communities safe Protects our environment Combats climate change Reverses harmful cuts to climate change programs Fights for a more humane immigration approach Combats the gun violence epidemic Bolsters international security and stability A summary of the FY 21 appropriations can be found here and authorizing matters here. A summary of the COVID-19 emergency relief section can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-calls-for-more-covid-19-relief-says-to-do-nothing-is-a-dereliction-of-duty,BISHOP CALLS FOR MORE COVID-19 RELIEF—SAYS TO DO NOTHING IS A DERELICTION OF DUTY,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, GA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, released the following statement regarding the passage of H.R. 133, the emergency COVID-19 relief and the FY21 funding bill by the full U.S House of Representatives: ""Georgia is long overdue for more COVID-19 relief, which is why I supported this bill even though I think it does not provide sufficient direct payments, unemployment benefits, or funding for state, local, and tribal governments. In the House, we passed the Heroes Act in two different forms in hopes the Senate Majority Leader would understand the urgency of more aid for the American people. Unfortunately, he rejected our bills containing $1200 direct payments, $600 per week unemployment benefits, and $436 billion for state, local, and tribal governments—and instead sought to protect the ultra-wealthy and hang working families out to dry. ""It is unacceptable and heartless. However insufficient I find this relief proposal; it is still better than nothing. If it had been up to the Senate Republicans, Georgians would have received nothing. People are struggling more now than at the beginning of this pandemic—to do nothing is a dereliction of duty. ""In the House, we continued to fight for Americans everywhere who continue to struggle through this pandemic. We were able to negotiate $600 direct payments, $300 weekly unemployment payments, increased nutrition assistance, rental assistance, and an extension of the eviction moratorium. The bill replenishes the Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses and recognizes we will not be able to revive our economy until we get this virus under control. This bill will accelerate free vaccine distribution to as many Americans as soon as possible, as well as increase testing and tracing efforts so we can finally crush the virus. ""Though I am critical of the COVID-19 relief, I am very pleased with the FY 21 funding bills as a whole. We made many strong investments in the future of the American people, for the pandemic and beyond. I will continue to fight for more relief for our citizens, state and local governments, and small businesses as we move into the next Congress."" The COVID-19 section: Provides $600 direct payments per adult and child Enhanced $300 weekly unemployment benefits Extends the eviction moratorium and provides rental assistance Accelerates vaccine distribution and crushes the coronavirus Increases SNAP and child nutrition benefits Delivers key tax benefits for struggling families Strong support for small businesses with replenished Paycheck Protection Program Funds education, childcare, and students Delivers and improves affordable broadband access Secures key funding streams for state, local, tribal, and territorial governments Creates good-paying jobs in clean energy and infrastructure to fight the climate crisis Ends surprise billing Supports the global fight against COVID The FY21 Funding Bill: Expands broadband access for rural communities Provides pathways to better schools Supports servicemembers and military families Honors our responsibilities to veterans Supports hardworking taxpayers Expands access to housing Tackles food insecurity Keeps our communities safe Protects our environment Combats climate change Reverses harmful cuts to climate change programs Fights for a more humane immigration approach Combats the gun violence epidemic Bolsters international security and stability",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=5CCDDFDD-417B-4511-8498-4A0E2D0773D1,McBath Votes to Pass COVID-19 Relief and Government Funding Package,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-hopeful-moderna-vaccine-holds-promise-for-rural-america,BISHOP HOPEFUL MODERNA VACCINE HOLDS PROMISE FOR RURAL AMERICA,2020-12-19,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, released the following statement after receiving a briefing from FDA Commissioner Hahn and the Director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Dr. Peter Marks, on the details of FDA‘s efforts so far to review and authorize vaccines to prevent COVID-19: ""I am very encouraged by the information I received from Commissioner Hahn and Dr. Marks about the two highly effective COVID-19 vaccines approved by the FDA. The Moderna vaccine seems to hold promise for rural areas that make up much of the 2nd Congressional District and our nation. Unlike the Pfizer vaccine, the Moderna vaccine can be stored in standard freezers for up to 30 days once it arrives at its destination. I am hopeful this will make it quicker for every American, regardless of their zip code, to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. ""The FDA has worked around the clock to apply its rigorous safety standards to authorize numerous diagnostic tests, therapeutics, and now vaccines. I am proud to be in a position to provide the FDA the funding it needs to continue this fight and ensure they have the necessary tools to review future vaccine applications so we can crush the virus, restart the economy, and put this pandemic behind us.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F4C6C8CB-432B-41A1-AA8A-B15C91C92EE3,"Bipartisan Legislation to Support Child Care Providers, Led By McBath, To Become Law",2020-12-19,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-receives-first-dose-of-covid-19-vaccine,BISHOP RECEIVES FIRST DOSE OF COVID-19 VACCINE,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement after receiving the first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine: ""Today, I received my first dosage of the COVID-19 vaccine in compliance with government continuity guidelines. Additionally, because of my age and cancer remission, I am considered high risk should I contract the virus and am fortunate to be among the first to get the vaccine. ""I understand many people are skeptical and uncertain, particularly communities of color where there is a long history of nonconsensual experiments and other horrors conducted by medical providers. Please know that I trust the incredibly talented and culturally diverse scientists who created, developed, and evaluated this vaccine. I received it without any reservations whatsoever. The vaccine is 95% effective after both doses and the reported side effects are minimal, especially compared to the terrible effects of the COVID-19 virus. ""This virus has devastated our nation with a disproportionate impact on communities of color. With widespread vaccinations and following the CDC COVID-19 guidelines we can crush the virus, restart the economy, and put this pandemic behind us.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hice.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6256,Oglethorpe County Resident Receives Hice Headliner Award,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Jody Hice,H001071,hice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Oglethorpe County Resident Receives Hice Headliner Award f t # e Monroe, GA, December 18, 2020 Monroe, GA In this week's edition of his email newsletter, Congressman Jody Hice (GA-10) honored Dee Pelewski, the director of the Oglethorpe County Senior Citizen Center, as the Hice Headliner for the month of December. Each month, Congressman Hice recognizes one outstanding local citizen who goes above and beyond to help their neighbors and strengthen our community. I'm grateful for people like Dee Pelewski who provide seniors with meals, activities, transportation, and other important services, said Congressman Hice. While she gladly serves throughout the year, this Christmas season, Dee and volunteers go the extra mile to deliver gifts to each member of the Oglethorpe County Senior Center. Thank you, Dee, for working long hours and driving countless miles on rural roads to ensure that seniors are cared for. You're making Christmas a little merrier for many in our community. To nominate an outstanding individual who is making a positive impact in your community, please send an email toJessica.Hayes@mail.house.gov. ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-bishop-bill-to-make-carter-historic-site-a-national,HOUSE PASSES BISHOP BILL TO MAKE CARTER HISTORIC SITE A NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Sanford Bishop,B000490,bishop.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement after the full U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5472, the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park Resignation Act. Congressman Bishop is the original sponsor of H.R. 5472 and the bill is supported by the entire Georgia delegation: I am very pleased the House passed our bill to make the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. President Carter has spent his life making Plains, Georgia, and America a better place for all and it is fitting that we honor him with this change. The Jimmy Carter National Historical Park will increase tourism in Plains for many years to come, as President and Mrs. Carter desire. I urge the Senate to bring this bill to the floor for a vote so we can send it to the President's desk to sign into law.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-bishop-bill-to-make-carter-historic-site-a-national-historical-park,HOUSE PASSES BISHOP BILL TO MAKE CARTER HISTORIC SITE A NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement after the full U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5472, the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park Resignation Act. Congressman Bishop is the original sponsor of H.R. 5472 and the bill is supported by the entire Georgia delegation: ""I am very pleased the House passed our bill to make the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. President Carter has spent his life making Plains, Georgia, and America a better place for all and it is fitting that we honor him with this change. The Jimmy Carter National Historical Park will increase tourism in Plains for many years to come, as President and Mrs. Carter desire. I urge the Senate to bring this bill to the floor for a vote so we can send it to the President's desk to sign into law.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8674FDF8-C15F-4FCD-B8E5-D53DF2F3EC24,"McBath, Cline Bill Encouraging Humanitarian Innovation to Become Law",2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://hice.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6245,"Rep. Hice & House GOP Oversight: Restore American Confidence, Investigate Election Irregularities",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Jody Hice,H001071,hice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Hice & House GOP Oversight: Restore American Confidence, Investigate Election Irregularities f t # e Washington, D.C., December 16, 2020 Subcommittee on Government Operations Ranking Member Congressman Jody Hice (R-GA) led the following letter from Oversight Committee Republicans requesting a briefing on voter fraud and election irregularities from Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. Millions of Americans have lost faith in the integrity of our elections, and that is especially true in my home state of Georgia. Unfortunately, to date, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger has largely dismissed these legitimate concerns, asserting that the November election was the most secure in history' while simultaneously saying his office is investigating more than 250 cases of potential wrongdoing,said Congressman Hice. The pathway to restoring America's confidence in our elections is through total transparency and aggressively investigating all reports of fraud and irregularities. My colleagues and I on the House Committee on Oversight and Reform are presenting Secretary Raffensperger with the opportunity to explain his actions and inaction to the American people, and reassure the nation that the two upcoming Senate runoffs in Georgia will be secure from fraud. To read the letter, click here. ## f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/news/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=3559,Rep. Loudermilk Quarantining with COVID-19,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Loudermilk Quarantining with COVID-19 f t # e Washington, December 15, 2020 Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA)was tested late last week, after finding out he had come in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. He tested positive and is currently quarantining. He has issued the following statement:I'm quarantiningat home in Georgia,withmild symptoms, but I look forward togetting back to my full legislative duties as soon as possible. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/blog-posts/seventh-district-georgia-congressional-transition,Seventh District of Georgia - Congressional Transition,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hello, In preparation for the start of the new Congress in January, the House of Representatives has closed my office and begun to transfer all 7th District operations to our newlyelected Representative, Carolyn Bourdeaux, who will take office on January 3rd, 2021.It is my sincere wish that you will continue tocall on her as you have called on me to ensure our communities are best served. Forten years, the people ofGwinnett and Forsythhave trusted me with their voting card, and that has been one of thehighesthonors of my life.I am forever grateful forhaving had thisopportunityto serveyou, and I am thankful for your support, your instruction, and your encouragement every step of the way.I am truly sorry that I am unable to continue to serve you today. Unfortunately, because the House has closed my office, this is an automated reply and not the personal response that I wish I could provide.If your need is urgentand should not wait until Congresswoman-elect Bourdeaux takes office on January 3rd, please reach out to our U.S.Senators,David PerdueandKellyLoeffler, who remain in office and are available to serve you. Sincerely, Rob Woodall Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/washington-watch-121420,Washington Watch - 12/14/20,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"BIPARTISAN, BICAMERAL SUCCESS ON MAJOR LEGISLATIVE PROVISIONS The House had a busy legislative schedule last week as we considered a number of important bills that shared wide bipartisan support. This included the long-awaited Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), the sixtieth consecutive National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), and a short-term Continuing Resolution (CR) to give Congress a little more time to finalize negotiations about funding for FY21. As I have mentioned in previous newsletters, WRDA has tremendous importance for us in Georgia. From projects to deepen the Savannah Harbor to the maintenance of Lake Lanier and the Buford Dam, our state has a vested interest in ensuring the reauthorization and revision of WRDA. This year's bill, which was successfully negotiated between the House and Senate, shepherds in authorizations for new water projects, a reformed process for deauthorizing old ones, and modifications in how the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund is treated budgetarily. It passed the House by voice vote last Tuesday. The House also overwhelmingly passed the conference report to accompany H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for FY 21. The bicameral product came together as a bipartisan effort, exemplified by the bill being named after retiring House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Mac Thornberry. In addition to updates in military pay and benefits, this year's NDAA included provisions that will better position the United States against the continued threats posed by Russia and China, efforts to improve the efficacy and efficiency of the Pentagon as a whole, and updates to our acquisitions to improve military readiness. While each year's NDAA isn't perfect, they are important in securing ournation and providing our troops with the resources they both need and deserve. I was happy to vote in favor of the NDAA and with the Senate's passage last Friday, I look forward to it becoming law before the close of this Congress. Although Congress passed yet another short-term CR last week, there is reason to be fairly optimistic. While House and Senate appropriators could have easily punted government funding into the new Congress, this one-week extension demonstrates their desire to have it completed before the end of this session. I am hopeful that by the end of this week we will have sent an omnibus package to the president's desk. SENDING BIPARTISAN BILLS TO THE PRESIDENT'S DESK If you are a frequent reader of my newsletter, you know that each week the House is in session, Members work in a bipartisan fashion to pass bills under suspension of the rules a mechanism the House can use to expediate the passage of bills that have broader support from both sides of the aisle. However, with the end of the 116th Congress right around the corner, it is critical that we're not just ticking a box and increasing paperwork on the Senate's desk. It's about moving the ball down the court and putting points on the scoreboard, and that means sending legislation to the president's desk. That is why among the roughly 40 bills that the House advanced this past week, I want to highlight a few that have been referred to President Trump for his expected signature. In addition to the Water Resources Development Act that I mentioned earlier, this includes S. 578, the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act, which I have heard from several of you about over the past two Congresses. While in 2000 Congress previously took steps to remove the 24-month waiting period for Medicare coverage for individuals with ALS who qualified for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), it did not eliminate the five-month waiting period for those individuals to be eligible for SSDI benefits. This bill eliminates that waiting period ensuring that individuals affected by this progressive, neurodegenerative disease can have more timely access to benefits and health care coverage. The House also passed S. 461, the HBCU PARTNERS Act to direct federal agencies to create agency plans to strengthen Historically Black Colleges and Universities' (HBCU) participation in federal opportunities. Georgia is home to several HBCUs, including Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Spelman College, and they have a long track record of offering enriching academic opportunities for African American students. Additionally, the House passed S. 134, the Combat Online Predators Act to strengthen federal sentencing in certain instances for those convicted of stalking minors, as well as directing the Attorney General to update Congress on efforts being made to combat stalking. This is particularly important as more and more children today have access to the Internet and apps online. You can read a full list of bills the House considered and advanced this week by clicking HERE. U.S. SANCTIONS HUMAN RIGHTS OFFENDERS Each year on December 10th, the United States and countries across the world recognize International Human Rights Day, a time to reflect and reaffirm our commitment to human dignity and the rights of all people. In upholding that commitment, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced sanctions on some of the most serious human rights abusers overseas last Thursday. Thursday's order constitutes a continuation of the Treasury's Global Magnitsky sanctions program, which is a policy that targets some of the most dangerous human rights abusers who actively support atrocities and state corruption. Pursuant to its Global Magnitsky policy, which was expanded by Executive Order in 2017, the Treasury's action on Thursday targeted a number of corrupt and abusive officials in Haiti, Russia, and Yemen. The three Haitian officials sanctioned are high-ranking government actors who planned and supported the 2018 La Saline massacre of over 70 Haitian civilians by armed street gangs, an attack which sought to intimidate and silence political dissenters in Haiti's capital of Port-au-Prince. The five Yemeni officials sanctioned are all members of the Houthi movement in Yemen, a rogue force which regularly detains and tortures innocent Yemeni civilians and members of religious minorities. Lastly, the Russian officials sanctioned include Ramzan Kadyrov, the Head of the Chechen Republic, and a number of his associates. Kadyrov is directly responsible for the extrajudicial killings of political opponents, activists, journalists, and members of the LGBT community. When other countries continue to undermine U.S. efforts around the world to support democracies and protect human rights, we must stand ready to denounce those abuses and protect the most vulnerable. These actions, along with actions earlier this year in the House to combat human rights abuses by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and those to increase transparency around CCP's financial dealings, are critical to combating continued abuses that threaten the rights of minority populations and U.S. domestic industries. LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS RECEIVE GRANT FOR WORK TO COMBAT SUBSTANCE ABUSE The COVID-19 crisis has imparted numerous health and economic consequences on Americans and their families. This unfortunately includes increases in reported cases of mental health challenges, particularly among younger adults, minority populations, essential workers and caregivers, as well as increased rates of substance abuse. The Department of Health and Human Services recently awarded $250,000 in combined grant funding to two groups United Way of Forsyth's Forsyth County Drug Awareness Council and Pathways2Life in Berkeley Lake aimed at addressing substance abuse specifically in our community. This funding is awarded under the CDC's Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program, which is our nation's leading federally supported effort to mobilize coalitions in our community to prevent and reduce substance abuse among young people. The continued work of local support systems is critical to providing the individualized support and attention needed to help individuals suffering from addiction, and I am pleased that federal dollars addressing this need have made their way home. CONSTITUENT SPOTLIGHT: CALLING FOR A FINAL DEAL ON COVID-19 RELIEF As Congress enters the final stretch of this legislative session, I know there is one thing that is at the forefront of legislators' and the public's minds and that is the need to enact an additional COVID-19 relief package. We have continued to see the health and economic toll caused by this virus, especially over these last few months, as cases have risen nationally this November, slowing the momentum of our economic return. Below are some of the messages I have received from you all about the need for an additional federal relief package. Suman from Cumming: On behalf of retail businesses and the 52 million Americans that work in jobs supported by retail, we need your action now to save retail businesses. The CARES Act provided a much-needed bridge for businesses and financial aid for workers and consumers. However, retailers are struggling to survive and need additional support as the COVID-19 pandemic wages on. I ask Congress to come together and make a deal on a stimulus package. Leslie from Suwanee: I support the bipartisan COVID relief legislation and urge you to pass it before your upcoming recess. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ After months of standstill negotiations, and repeated calls from both rank and file Republican and Democratic Members to send individual bills across the finish line in absence of a wider deal, I was pleased last week to see a renewed interest from House and Senate leaders on reaching a final bipartisan deal on COVID-19 relief. As you may have heard, in an effort to get the ball rolling, a bipartisan, bicameral group of Members introduced a $908 billion proposal for COVID-19 relief, which Leslie mentioned. Following the release of its framework, that group unveiled additional details of the proposal last week, including a $300 weekly supplemental unemployment benefit and an extension of the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program,roughly $300 billion to provide relief to business through programs like the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), $7 billion in grants for contact tracing and testing, as well as funding for schools and hospitals. And with funding for state and local governments and the inclusion of liability provisions remaining the biggest sources of disagreement among leaders, Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced his intention earlier in the week to leave out those disputed provisions so we can get a bill to the President's desk. It is disappointing that Speaker Pelosi has dismissed that good-faith effort, in favor of holding her party's line. After months of deploying these same tactics, it is frustrating to see this delay in further progress. Americans and their families are in need of relief, and with a Democrat-controlled House and a Republican-controlled Senate, it remains the case that compromise is the only way to deliver that. And as we have seen, the consequences of inaction only stand to harm Americans and their families. It means that the $134 billion remaining in PPP funds to cover payroll and other eligible expenses for businesses and nonprofits continue to sit idle. It means the federal PUA program, which provides up to 13 weeks of additional unemployment benefits and expanded UI benefits for individuals, like self-employed workers who are not traditionally eligible, expires at the end of the year. Without a deal, a host of COVID-19 tax relief provisions, including tax credits for paid sick and family leave due to the coronavirus, will end on December 31st. It secures no new funding for the Education Stabilization Fund which has supported students, K-12 learning institutions, and colleges and universities, nor provides new funding for vaccine development and distribution and food assistance. It has long been the time to provide additional COVID-19 relief, and with the opportunity to act on that need this week, I hope our leaders will honor the calls of their colleagues in Congress and those they serve back home to get it done. GWINNETT COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS NAME 2020-2021 TEACHER OF THE YEAR It can't be said enough: the valuable role teachers play in providing academic instruction and setting our children on a path to being lifelong learners, especially at an early age, is critical to their success. We know that some of the best schools in the state and in the country call the Seventh District home, in large part because of all our hardworking teachers who work tirelessly to help students succeed in the classroom. And now, after months of deliberation, narrowing down its list of finalists from 139 to 6 teachers across elementary, middle, and high schools in the Gwinnett County Public School System, I am pleased to share the news that Sugar Hill Elementary's Ms. Katie Blum was named Gwinnett County Public Schools' districtwide Teacher of the Year! Ms. Blum, who has wanted to be a teacher since childhood, credited her family, mentors, and GCPS's investment in her development for her remarkable success. ""Katie is just a teacher that puts her students first all the time and you can just feel the energy and excitement when you walk in the classroom, said Sugar Hill Elementary Principal Nick Boyers. She just makes learning fun for her students and cares about each of her students deeply. I would like to congratulate Ms. Blum and all Gwinnett County Public Schools' Teachers of the Year for their dedication to each and every one of our GCPS students. Our district would not be the academic stronghold it is without their hard work and dedication. FORSYTH COUNTY ACTS OF SERVICE SPREAD HOLIDAY JOY TO LOCAL SENIORS Throughout my time in Congress, each week I have been proud to highlight stories from back home that recognize the good work of so many individuals and organizations who have given back to our community. While each congressional district shares a commonality, each serving roughly 700,000 people, no two are the same. In the Seventh District, we are so blessed to be surrounded by friends and neighbors who share that spirit of service to one another and take pride in the diversity of people and thought that make our community so special. Even amidst a difficult time for many in our community, individuals across our community have actively come together to provide fellowship and assistance to those most in need this holiday season. Last week, students from Haw Creek Elementary School and Helpings of Hope volunteers organized by Tam's BackStage gathered to celebrate the holidays with seniors in our community with singing, gifts, and plenty of food. The Haw Creek fifth graders took to decorating and filling stockings accompanied by Christmas Carol clips for residents at two local nursing homes, while the Tam's volunteers dressed in full holiday attire to serve over 200 meals to our neighbors in need. While all events were conducted with proper safety and social distancing, the holiday joy spread by our students and volunteers was clear. Along those at Haw Creek Elementary and volunteers at Tam's BackStage volunteers, for each one of you who has over the years, and during this time, made the day just a bit brighter for someone in need, please know your actions have directly made our community stronger. Thank you for all that you do. READYING FOR THE START OF THE 117TH CONGRESS Before I share with you what is expectedthis week in the halls of Congress, as the House and Senate approach what is expected to be the final days of this legislative session, that also means this marks my last congressional newsletter. In preparation for the start of the 117th Congress on January 3rd, the U.S. House of Representatives has begun transferring over office operations for newly elected and soon to be sworn in Members, which as you may know, includes the arrival of a new Representative for our Seventh District, Carolyn Bourdeaux. Forten years, the people ofGwinnett and Forsythhave trusted me with their voting card, and that has been one of thehighesthonors of my life.It has been humbling and rewarding to be the voice in Washington for a community as unique as ours. It has been a privilege to be that voice. Please know I could not have done it without your support, your instruction, and your encouragement every step of the way. I had the opportunity to chat recently with Matt Hyatt, the founder of Rocket IT Business Podcast based in Suwanee, to reflect on my start in Congress, the future of representation in Congress, the need for a renewed commitment to bipartisanship, and the importance of addressing constituents' needs with federal agencies through an efficient casework system. You can listen to our full conversation HERE. While political disagreements dominate the news cycle and seem as continual barriers to achieving our goals, I remain hopeful that legislators will be able to find common ground in the new year. More than 60 new House Members will take to the U.S. Capitol beginning in January, each with one shared goal: to ensure Americans are better off today than they were the day before. The beauty of the American experiment means we can disagree, and we can even be vocal about our disagreements. But let us continue to stand strong in our shared values of family, faith, and freedom, and continue to uplift one another as we work together to find the best path forward. It has been an honor to serve you this last decade, and may God bless you and your family. THE WEEK AHEAD As I mentioned earlier in this newsletter, Congress passed a short-term funding bill that expires at the end of this week in order to allow funding negotiators a little more time to finalize the details of the omnibus package. I remain hopeful that we will send the FY21 funding bill to the president's desk by the end of this week. Additionally, as mentioned in the spotlight, the on-again-off-again COVID-19 relief negotiations still have a possibility of producing a package this week. There has also been discussion about tying the relief package to government spending, however there are many factors working against that effort. Even still, I believe it is important that we provide relief for American families and businesses so that we can maintain the health of both ourselves and our economy. We must redouble our efforts to get a final deal done before the end of the year. I hope that my last vote in the House Chamber this Congress will be one to finally deliver on the relief that so many Americans and their families are waiting for, and one that follows through with our commitment to ensure government funding for the new year. Sincerely, Rob Woodall Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-austin-scott-leads-push-protect-american-blueberry-growers,Rep. Austin Scott Leads Push to Protect American Blueberry Growers,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Representatives Austin Scott (R-GA-08) and Al Lawson (D-FL-05) led several of their colleagues in sending a letter to the International Trade Commission (ITC) voicing support for a Section 201 safeguard investigation for the U.S. blueberry industry currently before the ITC. The members contend that extremely low pricing on rising imports during U.S. harvest periods have had a devastating impact on the domestic industry and request a prompt determination in the Section 201 case. Thousands of workers across the country have been laid off or not rehired.Scores of blueberry growers have gone out of business causing hardship on family farmers, economic harm to providers of packing and freezing services, and damage to the growers' local communities and tax bases.Grower profits have declined or vanished as prices have plummeted and blueberries have been left on bushes because it is uneconomic to harvest.In short, the effects of the import surge have been and remain devastating to the domestic blueberry industry, wrote the Members. As the Commission develops the evidentiary record in this case, it will be clear that imports are a substantial cause of serious injury to the domestic blueberry industry.We urge the Commission to promptly make an affirmative determination in this regard. In addition to the co-signers, the American Blueberry Growers Association and American Farm Bureau Federation support today's letter. Below is the text of the letter. You can also click here to read the letter. December 11, 2020 U.S. International Trade Commission 500 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20436 RE: Investigation No. TA-201-77 (Fresh, Chilled, and Frozen Blueberries) Dear Chairman Kearns and Commissioners: We write to express our support for the Commission's ongoing Section 201 investigation regarding fresh, chilled, and frozen blueberries. The significant surge of imports of blueberries in recent years, the timing of such imports during U.S. harvest periods, the extremely low pricing of the imports, and the targeting of the U.S. blueberry market by foreign exporters has had a devastating impact on the domestic blueberry industry. Current prices for blueberries are lower than they have been in years. Thousands of workers across the country have been laid off or not rehired. Scores of blueberry growers have gone out of business causing hardship on family farmers, economic harm to providers of packing and freezing services, and damage to the growers' local communities and tax bases. Grower profits have declined or vanished as prices have plummeted and blueberries have been left on bushes because it is uneconomic to harvest. In short, the effects of the import surge have been and remain devastating to the domestic blueberry industry. Blueberry imports have surged from a number of countries, especially Chile, Peru, Mexico, Argentina, and Canada, rising nearly 62 percent from 423 million pounds in 2015 to 684 million pounds in 2019. The blueberry market in these countries has been developed to expand exports to the United States rather than for domestic consumption. The large number of countries providing those exports indicates that a global solution is warranted and necessary to provide relief to the domestic blueberry industry. The United States is already heavily dependent on imports for a variety of important food crops and failure to control the surge of blueberries threatens to sharply reduce the number of U.S. blueberry growers and the volume of U.S. blueberries produced. Not only do these imports threaten domestic businesses and livelihoods, they also expose U.S. consumers to products from countries with poor or inconsistent product safety records. As the Commission develops the evidentiary record in this case, we believe it will be clear that imports are a substantial cause of serious injury to the domestic blueberry industry. We urge the Commission to promptly make an affirmative determination in this case. Sincerely, Rep. Austin Scott (R-GA-08) Rep. Al Lawson (D-FL-05) Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA-12) Rep. James Baird (R-IN-04) Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02) Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16) Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA-01) Rep. Doug Collins (R-GA-09) Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR-04) Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA-01) Rep. Val Demings (D-FL-10) Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-25) Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL-02) Rep. Drew Ferguson (R-GA-03) Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA-03) Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI-02) Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA-01) Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA-02) Rep. Stephanie Murphy (D-FL-07) Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04) Rep. Bill Posey (R-FL-08) Rep. John Rutherford (R-FL-04) Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR-05) Rep. Christopher Smith (R-NJ-04) Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL-09) Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL-17) Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI-06) Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-02) Rep. Ted Yoho (R-FL-03) -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A94BD16E-83C3-4BB3-A875-50D51AB847FF,Rep. Austin Scott Leads Push to Protect American Blueberry Growers,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC ­– Today, Representatives Austin Scott (R-GA-08) and Al Lawson (D-FL-05) led several of their colleagues in sending a letter to the International Trade Commission (ITC) voicing support for a Section 201 safeguard investigation for the U.S. blueberry industry currently before the ITC. The members contend that extremely low pricing on rising imports during U.S. harvest periods have had a devastating impact on the domestic industry and request a prompt determination in the Section 201 case. “Thousands of workers across the country have been laid off or not rehired. Scores of blueberry growers have gone out of business causing hardship on family farmers, economic harm to providers of packing and freezing services, and damage to the growers’ local communities and tax bases. Grower profits have declined or vanished as prices have plummeted and blueberries have been left on bushes because it is uneconomic to harvest. In short, the effects of the import surge have been and remain devastating to the domestic blueberry industry,” wrote the Members. “As the Commission develops the evidentiary record in this case, it will be clear that imports are a substantial cause of serious injury to the domestic blueberry industry. We urge the Commission to promptly make an affirmative determination in this regard.” In addition to the co-signers, the American Blueberry Growers Association and American Farm Bureau Federation support today’s letter. Below is the text of the letter. You can also click here to read the letter. December 11, 2020 U.S. International Trade Commission 500 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20436 RE: Investigation No. TA-201-77 (Fresh, Chilled, and Frozen Blueberries) Dear Chairman Kearns and Commissioners: We write to express our support for the Commission’s ongoing Section 201 investigation regarding fresh, chilled, and frozen blueberries. The significant surge of imports of blueberries in recent years, the timing of such imports during U.S. harvest periods, the extremely low pricing of the imports, and the targeting of the U.S. blueberry market by foreign exporters has had a devastating impact on the domestic blueberry industry. Current prices for blueberries are lower than they have been in years. Thousands of workers across the country have been laid off or not rehired. Scores of blueberry growers have gone out of business causing hardship on family farmers, economic harm to providers of packing and freezing services, and damage to the growers’ local communities and tax bases. Grower profits have declined or vanished as prices have plummeted and blueberries have been left on bushes because it is uneconomic to harvest. In short, the effects of the import surge have been and remain devastating to the domestic blueberry industry. Blueberry imports have surged from a number of countries, especially Chile, Peru, Mexico, Argentina, and Canada, rising nearly 62 percent from 423 million pounds in 2015 to 684 million pounds in 2019. The blueberry market in these countries has been developed to expand exports to the United States rather than for domestic consumption. The large number of countries providing those exports indicates that a global solution is warranted and necessary to provide relief to the domestic blueberry industry. The United States is already heavily dependent on imports for a variety of important food crops and failure to control the surge of blueberries threatens to sharply reduce the number of U.S. blueberry growers and the volume of U.S. blueberries produced. Not only do these imports threaten domestic businesses and livelihoods, they also expose U.S. consumers to products from countries with poor or inconsistent product safety records. As the Commission develops the evidentiary record in this case, we believe it will be clear that imports are a substantial cause of serious injury to the domestic blueberry industry. We urge the Commission to promptly make an affirmative determination in this case. Sincerely, Rep. Austin Scott (R-GA-08) Rep. Al Lawson (D-FL-05) Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA-12) Rep. James Baird (R-IN-04) Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02) Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16) Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA-01) Rep. Doug Collins (R-GA-09) Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR-04) Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA-01) Rep. Val Demings (D-FL-10) Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-25) Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL-02) Rep. Drew Ferguson (R-GA-03) Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA-03) Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI-02) Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA-01) Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA-02) Rep. Stephanie Murphy (D-FL-07) Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04) Rep. Bill Posey (R-FL-08) Rep. John Rutherford (R-FL-04) Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR-05) Rep. Christopher Smith (R-NJ-04) Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL-09) Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL-17) Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI-06) Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-02) Rep. Ted Yoho (R-FL-03) -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399463,Congressman David Scott Releases Year End Report,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman David Scott (GA-13) has been working hard in Washington and Georgia to secure federal support for constituents of Georgia's Thirteenth District. Scott released hisYear End Report highlighting this year's achievements. I am honored to share our Year End Report, Scott said. My staff and I worked hard to deliver results for Thirteenth District families during this year's Congress. As such, we coordinated free COVID-19 testing, provided food and financial assistance, awarded scholarships, secured home mortgage relief, and supported our frontline workers. In addition, we secured $120 million to help our veterans, $80 million for scholarships for students to attend African American 1890's Land-Grant Colleges and Universities, and $380 million in funding for new roads and interstate highways. I humbly appreciate my constituents for allowing me to continue making progress in our community and be their strong voice in the United States Congress. And, as always, my staff and I are here to be helpful whenever we are needed. Click here to view my Year End Report. By the Numbers: Serving You and Providing Resources Total Federal Dollars Secured for GA-13: $1,271,726,004 Total Casework Savings for Constituents: $21,779,408 Total Constituent Cases Resolved: 20,282 Outgoing Constituent Messages: 39,330 (116th Congress) Service Academy Nominations: 22 (116th Congress), 233 (2010-2020) CBC Spouses Education Scholarships Awarded: 8 (116th Congress), 111 (2003-2020) Congressional Art Competition Scholarships Awarded: 9 (116th Congress), 88 (2003-2020) Delivering Results in Washington Bills and Amendments Cosponsored in the 116th Congress: 411 Bills and Amendments Sponsored in the 116th Congress: 21 A+ Rating from the Human Rights Campaign A+ Rating from the Clean Water Action Fund A+ Rating from the National Parks Action Fund",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-austin-scott-fights-covid-19-tax-relief-small-businesses,Rep. Austin Scott Fights for COVID-19 Tax Relief for Small Businesses,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"TIFTON, GA Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) joined several of his colleagues in sending a bipartisan letteryesterday urging House leadership to ensure small businesses who utilized the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) are able to claim normal business expense deductions. Following the sending of the letter, Rep. Scott released the below comment: PPP has been a lifeline for millions of American small businessowners and their employees, including many in Georgia. If Congressional leadership doesn't include a substantive fix soon, small businesses who have been struggling to keep their doors open during the COVID-19 pandemic are estimated to pay over $120 billion in taxes on forgivable PPP loans. Any end-of-year legislation should include provisions that allow small businesses who participated in the Paycheck Protection Program to deduct necessary business expenses as Congress intended in the CARES Act. Without this change, I fear many more American small businesses could close for good, impacting our national, state, and local economies for years to come, said Rep. Austin Scott. Below is the text of the letter. You can also click here to read the letter. December 9, 2020 The Honorable Nancy Pelosi The Honorable Kevin McCarthy Speaker of the House Minority Leader U.S. House of Representatives U.S. House of Representatives H-232, U.S. Capitol H-204, U.S. Capitol The Honorable Steny Hoyer The Honorable Steve Scalise Majority Leader Minority Whip U.S. House of Representatives U.S. House of Representatives H-107, U.S. Capitol H-148, U.S. Capitol Dear Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, Leader Hoyer, and Whip Scalise, Thank you for your continued efforts to provide assistance to the American people through these challenging times. As we continue working on additional coronavirus assistance measures, we want to bring your attention to an important issue affecting small businesses across the United States and ask for your help in providing much-needed relief. Over the past few months, statewide shutdowns in response to the pandemic have had devastating effects on small businesses throughout the country. Thousands of small businesses have permanently closed, while capacity restrictions and reopening costs have drastically cut revenue streams for those that have remained open. In response to these dire economic conditions, Congress enacted the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to provide more than $600 billion for forgivable loans to small businesses to help keep employees on payroll and continue operating. Since its enactment, over 5 million loans have been made to businesses in all fifty states. This program has helped keep our economy from total collapse by providing a lifeline to small businesses with no alternative funding source. The PPP was intended to provide vital tax-free assistance for certain business costs in unprecedented economic circumstances. Congress specifically included Section 1106(i) in the CARES Act to exclude forgivable loan assistance from taxable income. On April 30, however, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released Notice 2020-32 disallowing the deduction of forgiven expenses. As Chairman Grassley, Chairman Neal, and Ranking Member Wyden wrote in a letter to Secretary Mnuchin on May 5, 2020 , this notice is contrary to Congressional intent. Section 1106(i) of the CARES Act was put in place specifically to ensure forgivable loan proceeds would be tax free, stating that any amount which (but for this subsection) would be includible in gross income of the eligible recipient by reason of forgiveness described in subsection (b) shall be excluded from gross income. Notice 2020-32 essentially ignores this section and effectively makes forgivable loans taxable despite Congress's clear intent to allow the deduction of necessary business expenses. To make matters worse, on November 18, 2020, the IRS released Revenue Ruling 2020-27 stating that PPP recipients who had not even received or applied for forgiveness could not deduct normal business expenses if they reasonably expected their loans to be forgiven. These notices are not only contrary to Congressional intent, but in fact changed the terms of the loan after a majority of PPP applicants had already applied for and received funds. Over 84% of total PPP applications were submitted prior to April 17, when the program first expired. This unfairly changed the rules of the program after the overwhelming majority of participants had joined. Without Congressional action, small businesses are estimated to pay over $120 billion in taxes on forgivable PPP loans. At a time when many are struggling to keep their doors open each day, we cannot saddle small businesses with a massive surprise tax bill. For this reason, we ask that you include a fix to clarify that recipients of forgivable PPP loans can claim normal business expense deductions in any end-of-year legislation. Thank you for your consideration of this request. Sincerely, -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B6457815-202F-47F2-9E02-ECE99D642E4B,Rep. Austin Scott Fights for COVID-19 Tax Relief for Small Businesses,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"TIFTON, GA ­– Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) joined several of his colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter yesterday urging House leadership to ensure small businesses who utilized the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) are able to claim normal business expense deductions. Following the sending of the letter, Rep. Scott released the below comment: “PPP has been a lifeline for millions of American small business owners and their employees, including many in Georgia. If Congressional leadership doesn’t include a substantive fix soon, small businesses who have been struggling to keep their doors open during the COVID-19 pandemic are estimated to pay over $120 billion in taxes on forgivable PPP loans. Any end-of-year legislation should include provisions that allow small businesses who participated in the Paycheck Protection Program to deduct necessary business expenses as Congress intended in the CARES Act. Without this change, I fear many more American small businesses could close for good, impacting our national, state, and local economies for years to come,” said Rep. Austin Scott. Below is the text of the letter. You can also click here to read the letter. December 9, 2020 The Honorable Nancy Pelosi The Honorable Kevin McCarthy Speaker of the House Minority Leader U.S. House of Representatives U.S. House of Representatives H-232, U.S. Capitol H-204, U.S. Capitol The Honorable Steny Hoyer The Honorable Steve Scalise Majority Leader Minority Whip U.S. House of Representatives U.S. House of Representatives H-107, U.S. Capitol H-148, U.S. Capitol Dear Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, Leader Hoyer, and Whip Scalise, Thank you for your continued efforts to provide assistance to the American people through these challenging times. As we continue working on additional coronavirus assistance measures, we want to bring your attention to an important issue affecting small businesses across the United States and ask for your help in providing much-needed relief. Over the past few months, statewide shutdowns in response to the pandemic have had devastating effects on small businesses throughout the country. Thousands of small businesses have permanently closed, while capacity restrictions and reopening costs have drastically cut revenue streams for those that have remained open. In response to these dire economic conditions, Congress enacted the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to provide more than $600 billion for forgivable loans to small businesses to help keep employees on payroll and continue operating. Since its enactment, over 5 million loans have been made to businesses in all fifty states. This program has helped keep our economy from total collapse by providing a lifeline to small businesses with no alternative funding source. The PPP was intended to provide vital tax-free assistance for certain business costs in unprecedented economic circumstances. Congress specifically included Section 1106(i) in the CARES Act to exclude forgivable loan assistance from taxable income. On April 30, however, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released Notice 2020-32 disallowing the deduction of forgiven expenses. As Chairman Grassley, Chairman Neal, and Ranking Member Wyden wrote in a letter to Secretary Mnuchin on May 5, 2020 , this notice is contrary to Congressional intent. Section 1106(i) of the CARES Act was put in place specifically to ensure forgivable loan proceeds would be tax free, stating that “any amount which (but for this subsection) would be includible in gross income of the eligible recipient by reason of forgiveness described in subsection (b) shall be excluded from gross income.” Notice 2020-32 essentially ignores this section and effectively makes forgivable loans taxable despite Congress’s clear intent to allow the deduction of necessary business expenses. To make matters worse, on November 18, 2020, the IRS released Revenue Ruling 2020-27 stating that PPP recipients who had not even received or applied for forgiveness could not deduct normal business expenses if they reasonably expected their loans to be forgiven. These notices are not only contrary to Congressional intent, but in fact changed the terms of the loan after a majority of PPP applicants had already applied for and received funds. Over 84% of total PPP applications were submitted prior to April 17, when the program first expired. This unfairly changed the rules of the program after the overwhelming majority of participants had joined. Without Congressional action, small businesses are estimated to pay over $120 billion in taxes on forgivable PPP loans. At a time when many are struggling to keep their doors open each day, we cannot saddle small businesses with a massive surprise tax bill. For this reason, we ask that you include a fix to clarify that recipients of forgivable PPP loans can claim normal business expense deductions in any end-of-year legislation. Thank you for your consideration of this request. Sincerely, -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7734,"Carter, Bishop, Fleischmann Encourage LG Chem and SK Innovation to Seek Resolution to Electric Vehicle Battery Trade Dispute",2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Buddy Carter,C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representative Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter (R-Ga.), along with Representatives Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) and Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tn.) are encouraging LG Chem and SK Innovation to ""find a workable, amicable and accountable resolution"" to their electric vehicle battery trade dispute. A letter was sent in light of the U.S. ITC having determined today to extend the target date for completion of the investigation to February 10, 2021.The letter notes that through their considerable foreign direct investments throughout the United States, both ""LG Chem and SK Innovation have contributed significantly to U.S. economic growth, high wage job creation, and green technology development as well as local community impact."" It also further points out that ""a potential adverse ruling to either of the two companies by the ITC will have a known negative impact on the U.S. economy and an adverse effect on the public interest."" ""In Georgia, SK has invested $2.58 billion in battery facilities that will employ more than 2,500 Georgians. In Michigan, Ford seeks to utilize SK Innovation's EV batteries for its iconic F-Series electric pickup trucks to be produced in Dearborn. A disruption in their EV battery supply would only serve to harm the U.S. workers on those assembly and production lines and further delay introduction of its model line. Like Ford, Volkswagen is planning to use SK Innovation's batteries for use in its new ID.4 Battery Electric Vehicle that goes on sale in 2022. Volkswagen invested $800 million in a new production line for this vehicle, and a disruption would harm thousands of U.S. workers in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and dealers across the country,"" the letter read. The members conclude by highlighting that a resolution will not only be in the two companies' mutual best interest, ""it will be in the best interest of a stronger U.S. economy and cutting edge EV battery manufacturing that will be the envy of the world."" Read the full letterhere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7738,Carter Applauds Unanimous Supreme Court Decision in Rutledge v. Pharmaceutical Care Management Association,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Buddy Carter,C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter (R-Ga.) today applauded the unanimous Supreme Court decisionin Rutledge v. Pharmaceutical Care Management Association.Arkansas law, Act 900, required pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to raise reimbursement rates for drugs if they are below the pharmacy's wholesale acquisition costs. The PBMs argued that federal lawsupersedes the state law and it was invalid under ERISA. Today, the Supreme Court ruled to uphold the state law and allow states to regulate pharmacy benefit managers. ""The Supreme Court's decision today is a huge win for patients, lowering prescription drug costs, and the health care system as a whole,""said Carter.""Pharmacy benefit managers, who bring absolutely no value to the system, were acting with a carte blanche and ignoring state regulations using ERISA as an excuse. This ruling today is not only important in the Arkansas case, but it also sets a precedent that PBMs can and should be regulated by the states where they operate. This will be a critical tool in our fight to lower prescription drug costs because states will now be able to address and stop the predatory practices of these middle men who work in the shadows."" At least 38 states have passed laws regulating PBM pricing that are similar to the Arkansas statute.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7739,Carter Files Amicus Brief with Concerns About 2020 Election,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Buddy Carter,C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Carter Files Amicus Brief with Concerns About 2020 Election f t # e Washington, December 10, 2020 Congressman Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter (R-Ga.) today filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court in support of the Texas v. Pennsylvania, et al. case.Recently, the Texas Attorney General filed a lawsuit in the Supreme Court to invalidate the presidential elections in four states, arguing that those states used the coronavirus pandemic as an excuse to unlawfully change election laws and weaken the integrity of the election. The amicus brief signed by 106 Members of Congress ensures the Supreme Court is aware of the crucial facts in the case that Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, and Wisconsin unconstitutionally bypassed their state legislatures to change how presidential electors are chosen. ""This case is about protecting the Constitution and our elections,""said Carter.""The Constitution is clear - only state legislatures can change how presidential electors are chosen. Whether you are a Democrat, Independent, or Republican, we should all agree that we need fair, honest, and transparent elections. The Supreme Court needs to ensure the integrity of our elections."" Clickhereto view the amicus brief. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FBDEC360-14C6-4FC9-A3E7-E52E267350E7,McBath Convenes COVID-19 Vaccine Town Hall,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://ferguson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3157,Congressmen Ferguson & Doyle introduce PASTEUR Act to promote new antimicrobial drugs,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,A. Ferguson,F000465,ferguson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. December 9, 2020 Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Doyle (D-PA) and Drew Ferguson (R-GA) introduced the Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Upsurging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act to encourage the development of critically needed antimicrobials and antibiotics and to ensure their appropriate use and domestic supply. Antimicrobial resistance is an urgent public health threat that requires a comprehensive, bipartisan solution, said Congressman Doyle.Infectious disease experts agree that our next public health crisis could be caused by drug-resistant infections, and we mustn't be caught flat-footed. The PASTEUR Act will help scientists and researchers bring better antimicrobials to the market, and it will help hospitals and doctors ensure these drugs are used properly. The public health, economic, and national security threats of antimicrobial resistance could have serious implications if left unresolved, said Congressman Ferguson. Pandemic preparedness is first and foremost about having the right preventative tools available, and antibiotics are without question one of these key tools. The PASTEUR Act brings together the public and private sectors to research and develop strong and effective antibiotics. This important piece of legislation will safeguard new antibiotic developments and prevent R&D from falling behind. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reportAntibiotic Resistance Threats in the United States, more than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur in the United States each year, and at least 35,000 people die as a result. Unfortunately, financial incentives to develop drugs to treat many of these life-threatening infections are lacking. The PASTEUR Act would address these market failures and increase public health preparedness by keeping novel antibiotics on the market and improving appropriate antibiotic use across the health care system. While current contracts between the government and drug makers base payment on volume, the PASTEUR Act would establish a subscription-style model which would offer antibiotic developers an upfront payment in exchange for access to their antibiotics, encouraging innovation and ensuring our health care system is prepared to treat antibiotic-resistant infections. Public health experts agree that the PASTEUR Act is an essential component of our response to combat antimicrobial resistance: Antibiotics are central to our preparedness and the foundation of modern medical care, but growing antibiotic resistance and the fragile antibiotic pipeline leave us extremely vulnerable. The PASTEUR Act will sustain antibiotic research and development and provide essential new resources to support antibiotic stewardship. Cornelius J. Clancy, MD; Associate Chief, Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh Antibiotic resistant infections seriously jeopardize our ability to provide complex medical care, including transplants and other surgeries, cancer chemotherapy, and care for patients seriously ill with COVID-19. IDSA is proud to support the PASTEUR Act to ensure we have the antibiotics we need and to drive the appropriate use of antibiotics to protect their effectiveness. Barbara D. Alexander MD, MHS, FIDSA; President, Infectious Diseases Society of America; Professor of Medicine and Pathology at Duke University School of Medicine Our ability to fight infections underpins modern medicine, but, in the battle between innovation and resistance, resistance is currently winning. COVID-19 has underscored the importance of preparedness and the threat of AMR looms large the PASTEUR Act is an important step forward in that fight against antimicrobial resistance and infectious disease,said Ken Thorpe, Chairman, Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease; Advisory Board, Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease. The PASTEUR Act would: Establish a subscription model to encourage innovative antimicrobial drug development aimed at treating drug-resistant infections. This model will be fully delinked, meaning that participating developers would not receive income, as a part of their subscription payments, based on volume or quantity of sales. Subscription contracts would contain terms and conditions including product availability to individuals on a government health insurance plan, supporting appropriate use, and completion of postmarketing studies. These contracts could be valuated between $750 million and $3 billion. Build on existing frameworks to improve usage of the CDC National Healthcare Safety Network and other programs to collect and report on antibiotic use and resistance data. Include transition measures such as smaller subscription contracts to support novel antimicrobial drug developers that need a financial lifeline. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congressman-urges-georgians-support-usps-battle-over-funding-mail-ballots,"Congressman urges Georgians to support USPS in battle over funding, mail-in ballots",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"12/8/2020 239 H.R.8354 Yea 12/8/2020 238 H.R.6395 Yea 12/7/2020 237 S.461 Yea 12/7/2020 236 H.RES.512 Yea 12/4/2020 235 H.R.3884 Yea",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/democratic-rep-hank-johnson-house-passing-police-reform-bill,Democratic Rep. Hank Johnson On House Passing Police Reform Bill,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Here & Now: Democratic Rep. Hank Johnsonof Georgia was among the authors of the massive police reform bill that passed the House on Thursday. With legislation stalled in Congress, we ask the congressman where he sees room for compromise with Republicans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/georgia-democrat-republican-fight-federal-court-paywall,"Georgia Democrat, Republican fight federal court paywall",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"12/8/2020 239 H.R.8354 Yea 12/8/2020 238 H.R.6395 Yea 12/7/2020 237 S.461 Yea 12/7/2020 236 H.RES.512 Yea 12/4/2020 235 H.R.3884 Yea",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-johnson-conducts-oversight-visit-irwin-detention-center-south-georgia,Rep. Johnson Conducts Oversight Visit of Irwin Detention Center in South Georgia,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman: Private company, ICE makes a living by feasting on the misery of the detainees Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, participated in a Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) and House Judiciary Committee oversight visit to investigate Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Irwin County Detention Center in Ocilla, Georgia, where multiple immigrant women have been subjected to alleged hysterectomies and other medical procedures performed without their consent.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-johnson-urges-senate-pass-george-floyd-justice-policing-act,Rep. Johnson Urges Senate to Pass George Floyd Justice in Policing Act,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"12/8/2020 239 H.R.8354 Yea 12/8/2020 238 H.R.6395 Yea 12/7/2020 237 S.461 Yea 12/7/2020 236 H.RES.512 Yea 12/4/2020 235 H.R.3884 Yea",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/still-crippled-pandemic-atlanta-restaurants-struggle-hang,"Still crippled by pandemic, Atlanta restaurants struggle to hang on",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"AJC:The number of restaurants and other small businesses being forced to close their doors forever is alarming,"" said U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga. It is beyond time for the Senate to work with the House to pass legislation replenishing the Paycheck Protection Program and making it more flexible so that small businesses have more ability to pay other expenses while maintaining loan forgivable status. Like Johnson, the National Restaurant Association has also called on Congress to consider short-term assistance by authorizing another round of the PPP, and this time with greater flexibility in how the funds get used to cover operating expenses and payroll.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4575,Rep. Allen Votes For Critical Defense Funding,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Rick Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Rick W. Allen (R-GA-12) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Report. The NDAA is the annual bill that authorizes defense spending and sets priorities for America's military. Passing today's bill fulfills our greatest responsibility supporting our military, said Congressman Allen. Every year, Congress is tasked with ensuring our men and women in uniform have the resources needed to keep Americans safe. This legislation authorizes $740.5 billion in defense funding, including a pay raise for our troops and ensuring the Department of Defense maintains a 30-day supply of PPE and access to diagnostic equipment and testing. I was proud to help secure authorization for vital funding for Georgia's 12th District, including $80 million for Advanced Training Barracks at Fort Gordon to support U.S. Army Cyber Command. The bill also continues nuclear modernization to ensure our nuclear deterrent is safe and reliable, including authorizing funds for the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility at the Savannah River Site. I am committed to ensuring the critical missions at Fort Gordon and the Savannah River Site continue to receive necessary funding. While the NDAA has historically been a bipartisan measure, over the past few years Democrats have tried to insert partisan poison pills completely unrelated to military readiness. However, after making its way through the legislative process in both the House and Senate, I'm glad to see that many of these provisions -- specifically those aimed at restricting the Second Amendment and curtailing the President's authority to deploy the National Guard -- were ultimately rejected in the final bill. Our national security is of the utmost importance and I'm proud to support our military.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-austin-scott-statement-final-passage-defense-bill,Rep. Austin Scott Statement on Final Passage of Defense Bill,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"TIFTON, GA Today, Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), released the below statement upon House passage of the Conference Report for the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (FY21 NDAA), which authorizes funding for Department of Defense (DOD) programs. The NDAA is one of the most important pieces of legislation we pass each year, and I am glad we were able to deliver this critical legislation to provide for our warfighters and their missions, said Rep. Scott. While the FY21 NDAA certainly isn't perfect, it accomplishes many important goals, including a much needed 3% pay raise for our troops, resources for new programs across the DOD, and support for missions at Robins and Moody Air Force Bases in Georgia's Eighth District. I encourage the President to sign this Conference Report to ensure our ability to tackle the threats we face today while planning for those of tomorrow. In November, Rep. Scott was chosen to serve on a conference committee which was charged with working through differences of the House and Senate versions of FY21 NDAA to comprise a final bill for passage. The legislation passed today is the result of House-Senate compromises and authorizes funding DOD for FY21. The FY21 NDAA Conference Report includes the following provisions important to Georgia's Eighth District: PROVIDING FOR CURRENT AND FUTURE NEEDS AT ROBINS: The Conference Report includes language authored by Rep. Scott to prohibit the retirement of 16 critically important E8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) aircraft at Robins, which provide airborne surveillance, intelligence, and command and control to our military through on-board radar and computer subsystems equipment that gathers and distributes detailed battlefield information. Rep. Scott was also able to secure an increase of $27 million above the President's budget request for much-needed modernization upgrades to the JSTARS aircraft to ensure the system can continue to support combatant commanders' needs. SUPPORTING MISSIONS AT MOODY: Also included in the legislation is a provision authored by Rep. Scott to prohibit the retirement of the A-10C Warthog aircraft, which provide close air support and combat search-and-rescue capabilities unmatched by any other aircraft in the Air Force's inventory. No other fixed-wing airframes are as proficient as the A-10 in operating in rugged environments, low visibility, and very low altitudes, and the A-10C has been instrumental in the fight against ISIS, in Eastern Europe and the Baltics in face of Russian aggression, and missions in the South China Sea after illegal Chinese military expansion in the region. Other highlights of the Conference Report passed today include: Provides our troops a 3% pay raise, authorizes extra pay for troops in combat zones, and supports their families with the care and benefits they deserve. Ensures DOD maintains a 30-day supply of PPE to ensure our troops have the diagnostic equipment and testing they need and provides health benefits to Guardsmen supporting the COVID-19 response. Continues to fund nuclear modernization to ensure our nuclear deterrent is safe and reliable. Establishes the Pacific Deterrence Initiative to fund emergent technologies, support our allies, and deter China and authorizes several new provisions to counter Chinese industrial espionage, support Hong Kong and Taiwan, and protect our defense supply chain. Continues to fund the European Deterrence Initiative to support our allies and counter Russian aggression. Increases investments into advanced weapons system, autonomous systems, AI, and RDT&E. Maintains prohibitions on the transfer of detainees from Guantanamo Bay. Continues to support missile defense cooperation with Israel and includes the United States-Israel Assistance Act. Includes the Senate-passed language that establishes a commission to study and recommend the renaming of bases named after Confederates within three years, compared to the House language which mandated renaming within one year. Does not include red flag gun control provision. Does not include provisions that would have curtailed the President's authority under the Insurrection Act or to deploy the National Guard. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D7426870-D43C-4793-99FC-6B4EC80BF65F,Rep. Austin Scott Statement on Final Passage of Defense Bill,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"TIFTON, GA – Today, Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), released the below statement upon House passage of the Conference Report for the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (FY21 NDAA), which authorizes funding for Department of Defense (DOD) programs. “The NDAA is one of the most important pieces of legislation we pass each year, and I am glad we were able to deliver this critical legislation to provide for our warfighters and their missions,” said Rep. Scott. “While the FY21 NDAA certainly isn’t perfect, it accomplishes many important goals, including a much needed 3% pay raise for our troops, resources for new programs across the DOD, and support for missions at Robins and Moody Air Force Bases in Georgia’s Eighth District. I encourage the President to sign this Conference Report to ensure our ability to tackle the threats we face today while planning for those of tomorrow.” In November, Rep. Scott was chosen to serve on a conference committee which was charged with working through differences of the House and Senate versions of FY21 NDAA to comprise a final bill for passage. The legislation passed today is the result of House-Senate compromises and authorizes funding DOD for FY21. The FY21 NDAA Conference Report includes the following provisions important to Georgia’s Eighth District: PROVIDING FOR CURRENT AND FUTURE NEEDS AT ROBINS: The Conference Report includes language authored by Rep. Scott to prohibit the retirement of 16 critically important E–8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) aircraft at Robins, which provide airborne surveillance, intelligence, and command and control to our military through on-board radar and computer subsystems equipment that gathers and distributes detailed battlefield information. Rep. Scott was also able to secure an increase of $27 million above the President’s budget request for much-needed modernization upgrades to the JSTARS aircraft to ensure the system can continue to support combatant commanders’ needs. SUPPORTING MISSIONS AT MOODY: Also included in the legislation is a provision authored by Rep. Scott to prohibit the retirement of the A-10C “Warthog” aircraft, which provide close air support and combat search-and-rescue capabilities unmatched by any other aircraft in the Air Force’s inventory. No other fixed-wing airframes are as proficient as the A-10 in operating in rugged environments, low visibility, and very low altitudes, and the A-10C has been instrumental in the fight against ISIS, in Eastern Europe and the Baltics in face of Russian aggression, and missions in the South China Sea after illegal Chinese military expansion in the region. Other highlights of the Conference Report passed today include: Provides our troops a 3% pay raise, authorizes extra pay for troops in combat zones, and supports their families with the care and benefits they deserve. Ensures DOD maintains a 30-day supply of PPE to ensure our troops have the diagnostic equipment and testing they need and provides health benefits to Guardsmen supporting the COVID-19 response. Continues to fund nuclear modernization to ensure our nuclear deterrent is safe and reliable. Establishes the Pacific Deterrence Initiative to fund emergent technologies, support our allies, and deter China and authorizes several new provisions to counter Chinese industrial espionage, support Hong Kong and Taiwan, and protect our defense supply chain. Continues to fund the European Deterrence Initiative to support our allies and counter Russian aggression. Increases investments into advanced weapons system, autonomous systems, AI, and RDT&E. Maintains prohibitions on the transfer of detainees from Guantanamo Bay. Continues to support missile defense cooperation with Israel and includes the United States-Israel Assistance Act. Includes the Senate-passed language that establishes a commission to study and recommend the renaming of bases named after Confederates within three years, compared to the House language which mandated renaming within one year. Does not include “red flag” gun control provision. Does not include provisions that would have curtailed the President’s authority under the Insurrection Act or to deploy the National Guard. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-reintroduces-bill-battle-neglected-infections,Congressman Johnson Reintroduces Bill to Battle Neglected Infections of Poverty,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) today announced he is re-introducing his bill to address the growing problem of parasitic diseases in America — found mostly in poor, minority populations along the U.S.-Mexico border, the rural South, Appalachia and distressed urban areas. The bill passed the House of Representatives in 2010 but stalled in the Senate. The ""Neglected Infections of Impoverished Americans Act of 2020"" would require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to report to Congress annually on the impact of prevalent parasitic infections, address their threat and make funding recommendations on how to eradicate them. These diseases affect hundreds of thousands of mostly poor, minority residents with no health insurance. People suffer from heart disease, lung ailments, birth defects, seizures, difficult pregnancies and child developmental problems as a result of infection. ""There is no reason that a nation with as many resources as the United States of America should tolerate these kinds of health disparities to exist among the poor and otherwise disadvantaged populations,"" said Johnson. ""These diseases are closely tied with adverse pregnancy outcomes and inhibited child development, and they disproportionally harm Black and minority communities. As the state with the worst maternal mortality rate in the country, addressing these diseases is critical to the safety of women and families in Georgia."" ""It's time that we study and make a plan to battle these preventable diseases. Americans' health should not depend on where they live and how much money they make."" ""It's becoming apparent that parasitic diseases and neglected infections of the poor are now widespread among Americans living in extreme poverty in the U.S.,"" said Dr. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. ""As poverty accelerates because of our COVID epidemic, we might expect that neglected infections will continue to dominate and remain important health disparities, especially in the Southern U.S."" The bill now goes to the Energy and Commerce Committee. Cosponsors include: Bass, Beatty, Bishop, Carson, Chu, Grijalva, Hayes, E.B. Johnson, Lee, Norton, B. Thompson ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-s-bipartisan-bill-making-federal-court-records-free-public,Rep. Johnsons Bipartisan Bill Making Federal Court Records Free to the Public Passes House,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), chairman of the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, today announced The Open Courts Act of 2020, H.R. 8235, which would modernize the federal judiciary's court records systems and eliminate the paywall (called PACER) that currently forces the public to pay more than $140 million each year to access these records, passed the House. The new system will provide a centralized, easily searchable site to access court records free of charge. Rep. Doug Collins (GA-09) co-introduced the bill, which was marked up and passed out of Judiciary Committee in September. The product of years of bipartisan effort, the Act's common sense solutions respond to mounting alarm that the PACER paywall and the outdated programs PACER fees subsidize have harmed access to justice, infringed on the foundational right of public access to court records, stifled innovation, and fostered wasteful spending. Everyone wants to have a system that is technologically first class and free, Rep. Johnson told The Washington Post recently. A modern system, he said, is more efficient and brings more transparency into the equation and is easier on the pocketbooks of regular people. The new system is projected to cost only $4.6 million per year on average far less than the $140 million per year the judiciary spends on its existing system. The Open Courts Act would: Create a cost-effective, modernized court records system for the federal judiciary. Make court records freely available to the public; eliminate the pay wall currently established by PACER. Ensure that the public can easily search for and access court records. Provide funding for the new system without requiring new appropriations. A section-by-section analysis of the bill as amended can be found HERE. To read H.R. 8235 as amended on the floor, click HERE. Rep. Johnson's floor speech managing H.R. 8235 HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnsons-bipartisan-bill-making-federal-court-records-free-public,Rep. Johnson’s Bipartisan Bill Making Federal Court Records Free to the Public Passes House,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), chairman of the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, today announced The Open Courts Act of 2020, H.R. 8235, which would modernize the federal judiciary's court records systems and eliminate the paywall (called PACER) that currently forces the public to pay more than $140 million each year to access these records, passed the House. The new system will provide a centralized, easily searchable site to access court records free of charge. Rep. Doug Collins (GA-09) co-introduced the bill, which was marked up and passed out of Judiciary Committee in September. The product of years of bipartisan effort, the Act's common sense solutions respond to mounting alarm that the PACER paywall and the outdated programs PACER fees subsidize have harmed access to justice, infringed on the foundational right of public access to court records, stifled innovation, and fostered wasteful spending. ""Everyone wants to have a system that is technologically first class and free,"" Rep. Johnson told The Washington Post recently. A modern system, he said, ""is more efficient and brings more transparency into the equation and is easier on the pocketbooks of regular people."" The new system is projected to cost only $4.6 million per year on average — far less than the $140 million per year the judiciary spends on its existing system. The Open Courts Act would: Create a cost-effective, modernized court records system for the federal judiciary. Make court records freely available to the public; eliminate the pay wall currently established by PACER. Ensure that the public can easily search for and access court records. Provide funding for the new system without requiring new appropriations. A section-by-section analysis of the bill as amended can be found HERE. To read H.R. 8235 as amended on the floor, click HERE. Rep. Johnson's floor speech managing H.R. 8235 HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/news/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=3552,Rep. Loudermilk: NDAA Includes Critical Military Resources Necessary to Combat China and Russia,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga) issued the following statement after the House passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2021:The NDAA has been the primary way Congress executes its Constitutional duty to provide our men and women in uniform with the tools, weapons, resources and support they need to effectively protect our nation. I am pleased to see Congress negotiate in a bipartisan manner and come to a consensus on an NDAA that provides our military with the defensive capabilities necessary to combat China and Russia's growing influence around the world. This bill also provides our military service members with a well-deserved pay raise and looks after our military families and veterans. Among many other important provisions, the bill calls for seven new C-130J Super Hercules aircraft and 93 new F-35 Join Strike Fighters, which are important to Georgia's 11th Congressional District because the C-130J and part of the F-35 are assembled in the 11th District and employ thousands of hardworking Georgians. Background - Recognizes China and Russia's role as revisionist powers and prioritizes responding to those threats. - Provides for seven C-130Js and $9.1 billion for 93 F-35's. - Provides $740.5 billion for national defense programs. - Provides 3% pay raise for the military. - Creates the Pacific Deterrence Initiative to combat China's malign influence in the Indo-Pacific. - Fully funds the European Deterrence Initiative to resist Russia's influence in Europe. - Modernizes currency transaction reports (CTRs) and suspicious activity reports (SARs) under the Bank Secrecy Act so to require the administration to conduct a formal review of CTR and SAR reporting, and to issue rules to make changes to these reports to reduce overly burdensome regulations. - Requires regulators to review and determine whether reporting thresholds should be adjusted, and to propose rules as appropriate, including potentially tying the CTR and SAR thresholds to inflation. - Requires state, local and tribal law enforcement officials who need access to beneficial ownership information to obtain approval of their request from the court system in the local jurisdiction.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=DFBE8320-72EB-47E3-BC8A-6DE159735DF3,"McBath Votes to Approve Bipartisan Conference Report on H.R. 6395, the FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Act",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://hice.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6243,ICYMI: Hices H.R. 306 Passes House Floor,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Jody Hice,H001071,hice.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C,-- Congressman Jody Hice (R-GA), a member of the House Natural Resources Committee, took to the House Floor last week to speak on behalf of his legislation, H.R. 306, the Kettle Creek Battlefield Study Act, which passed that evening. Congress has made significant strides in preserving the history of America's brutal Civil War, and rightfully so. Unfortunately, we have not done the same with many Revolutionary War battlefields and these hallowed grounds of our Nation's founding moments are slowly disappearing with time,said Congressman Hice. This legislation is a critical step forward in preserving the battlefield at Kettle Creek one that has tremendous local support in the community. I strongly believe that the storied grounds of what Colonel Pickens described as the most significant victory of the Southern Campaign, and a place where a young African American Patriot earned his freedom 86 years prior to the end of slavery, is more than significant enough to preserve for future generations. I look forward to Kettle Creek being studied for inclusion in the park system, and I urge my colleagues to support this piece of history. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/washington-watch-12720,Washington Watch - 12/7/20,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"HOUSE SKIPS COVID-19 RELIEF; PASSES MARIJUANA REFORM INSTEAD As many of you are aware, there are a number of pressing items that require Congress's attention before the end of the year, including a coronavirus relief package, funding for the government that runs out at the end of this week, completing consideration of the National Defense Authorization Act, reauthorizing the Coast Guard, and finalizing the Water Resources Development Act, to name a few. However, while the House didn't prioritize any of those items, the Democrat majority found time last week for the House to consider H.R. 3884, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act. Specifically, this bill would remove marijuana from the federal list of scheduled substances under the Controlled Substances Act and eliminate criminal penalties for those who manufacture, distribute, or possess marijuana. It would also create an Opportunity Trust Fund to assist those adversely impacted by the War on Drugs through a 5% sales tax on marijuana that would incrementally increase to 8% over five years. I don't fault the Majority for recognizing the need to reassess the federal government's role in regulating marijuana as states are ignoring federal law in increasing numbers. 36 states permit marijuana to be used for medical purposes, and 15 states allow for recreational use all in contravention of federal law while marijuana is still listed as a Schedule I substance. In fact, there is broad bipartisan support for addressing the wrong that is having two sets of rules for Americans to abide by. That said, setting timing issues aside, there are a number of flaws in the bill that my friends on the other side of the aisle did not take the time to address, again passing a messaging bill rather than legislation intended to become law. For example, the bill fails to include some commonsense protections for minors that we have for tobacco and vape products like banning flavored products that appeal to kids or teens, banning advertisements or public event sponsorships, and including a warning label from the Surgeon General regarding the health risks. The bill also fails to include general health and safety guidelines that exist for tobacco products governing pesticide use or heavy metal concentration in marijuana products. You can listen to my remarks when managing the rule last week for H.R. 3884 below. Rep. Rob Woodall Manages Rule Debate for H.R. 3884, the MORE Act While the MORE Act will not be brought up for consideration by the Senate before the end of the year, sending the bill back to the starting line, I am hopeful that the Members of the 117th Congress will take their time to carefully craft legislation that addresses all aspects of marijuana rescheduling. JOBS REPORT SHOWS SLOWED BUT CONTINUED GROWTH With the beginning of each month also comes the release of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest jobs report that serves as a snapshot of the state of our economy. For the month of November, the good news is that the unemployment rate continued its downward trajectory, edging down to 6.7 percent from 6.9 percent last month. The economy added 245,000 jobs, with notable gains made in transportation and warehousing, professional and business services, health care, and manufacturing. Other sectors, including government, saw declines, including declines in retail trade, reflecting less seasonal hiring. This latest report demonstrates just how dependent a strong economic return is on our ability to control the COVID-19 public health threat. With new cases of COVID-19 rising nationally this November and new restrictions enacted as a result, we can only expect our economy to slow if we don't work to limit the spread of this virus. And while vaccine candidates, whose reported trial data have been incredibly encouraging, are currently being evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), full deployment of any vaccine that is approved as safe and effective by the FDA will take time. It is clear that additional support is needed to strengthen our economy and support individuals affected, as public health officials anticipate the pandemic could worsen in the now winter months and with many CARES Act provisions set to expire by year's end. That is why I have continued to call on Speaker Pelosi to come to the table and reach an agreement with White House and Senate leaders on a bipartisan deal. I am glad to see renewed interest from Congressional leadership this past week about the need to get this done before the end of the year. It is imperative that we do. HOUSE PASSES BILLS UNDER SUSPENSION OF THE RULES As you know, the end of the 116th Congress is fast approaching, which is why I was pleased to see the House continue to advance bills that have garnered wider support among both Republicans and Democrats. The House considered and passed 27 bills under suspension of the rules last week a procedural mechanism that the House utilizes to bring legislation that is largely agreed upon to the floor. And while I can't say that each of these measures as drafted enjoyed overwhelming bipartisan support, nor were the most pressing considering the little time remaining this legislative session, I want to highlight a few of those notable bills below. The House passed several bills referred from the Senate, advancing these bills to President Trump's desk for his expected signature. Those include S. 4054 that re-authorizes the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA) for five years, which provides for the efficient workings of our federal grain inspection system and ensures our grain supply chains run smoothly and our grain exports are of high quality. Additionally, the House passed S. 945, the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act. This bill requires the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to identify any publicly traded company with a foreign registered public accounting firm that cannot be inspected by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB), due to the laws of that foreign jurisdiction. Those companies would be required to submit documentation demonstrating that they are not owned by that foreign nation's government, and the SEC would prohibit trade of securities on U.S. national indexes for organizations that do not meet auditing requirements. This would strengthen transparency surrounding the commercial and financial activities of foreign companies and governments, China in particular, which has long restricted U.S. regulators' access to information. You can read a full list of last week's bills HERE. As we enter what is likely to be the final legislative stretch this week, I hope you we can continue a trend of passing smart, targeted measures like these that have bipartisan support. CONSTITUENT SPOTLIGHT: PPP LOAN DEDUCTIONS Over 174,000 Georgians were supported through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which as many of you know, offers forgivable loans for many small businesses, nonprofits, and sole proprietors if those funds were used for eligible payroll and nonpayroll expenses. However, I have heard from several PPP recipients back home about their concerns with the tax treatment of these forgivable loans. You can read some of those messages below. Mike from Cumming: Congressman Woodall, please support H.R. 6821. The IRS has ruled that expenses paid for by forgiven PPP loans will not be deductible. This ruling effectively makes the amount of loan forgiveness taxable, contrary to the intent of the Cares Act. Please support H.R. 6821 to correct that error on the part of the IRS. We are still struggling to keep afloat! John from Buford: Please help pass the Small business Expense Protection Act so that expenses paid with PPP funds will be deductible when filing 2020 tax return. If we have to pay taxes on this it will devastate our financial reserves if they are even there at the end of the year. I truly believe a lot of people are or will be in this situation by the end of the year. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ While the CARES Act provided that PPP forgiven loan amountsare not to beincludedin the borrower's taxable gross income,the IRS'snotice issued earlier this year clarified that deductions are not allowed, pointingto InternalRevenue Code (IRC) Section 265(a)(1),whichstatesthat an expense that would otherwisebe deductible from gross income as a business or nonbusiness expense cannot be deducted if it is allocable to a class of income which is exempt from taxation.The IRS has further confirmed that interpretation in its subsequent revenue ruling this November, but also noted a safe harbor, that allows borrower to later deduct those expenses if not forgiven. Inlight of this, it has becomeclear that Congress would need to stepin,in order to allowforPPP recipients to also deductexpenses from these forgivable loans. To that end, several pieces oflegislationhave been introduced by Members from both sides of the aisle in both the House and Senate, including the Small Business Expense Protection Act that Mike and John mentioned, which wouldalsoallow forthe deductibility offorgivablePPP expenses. I certainly realize the critical role this program has played in supporting small businesses and workers greatly impacted by COVID-19, and I am receptive to ways we can provide greater relief in the wake of the financial burdens imposed by the spread of this virus. That is why if such a bill were brought totheHouse floor, I would beinclined to supportit.Additionally, I have continued to join my colleagues, in the absence of a wider COVID-19 deal, in urging Speaker Pelosi to allow a bill to come to the House floor, which would allow for the second draw of the roughly $134 billion remaining PPP funds that remain unused. Millions of American families and businessesare in need of relief, and I hope the Speaker will delay these efforts no longer. RAINBOW VILLAGE BUILDS ON DECADES OF SERVICE Rainbow Village in Gwinnett County, a nonprofit dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness, poverty, and domestic violence, has had a direct role in supporting individuals across our community for over a quarter of a century. This past week, they hosted their ""We Are Family Benefit Gala"" to help support that important mission. This year, that gala looked a little different than in years past, hosting a virtual event due to the ongoing pandemic, to raise awareness about Rainbow Village's important work and how volunteers and donors can become a part of the organization's efforts. And even with the challenges of the pandemic and transitioning its fundraiser to one that was free and conducted virtually, it should come as no shock to us that they continued to exceed expectations raising $220,000 to support its programming! I would like to thank everyone at Rainbow Village for continuing their good work, especially during this time, as well as all those who have gone out of their way to support their programs through volunteering, donations, or sponsorships. Over my tenure in Congress, I have had the great pleasure of visiting with the dedicated personnel at Rainbow Village, and I am truly in awe of the remarkable work of Melanie and her team in lending a helping hand and setting families on a path to independent living. And I am grateful to witness the tremendous support of all of you have furthered this important work. LAMBERT STUDENTS REWARDED FOR SERVICE TO CLASSMATES Here in the Seventh District, we are home to remarkable individuals who dedicate their time, focus, and energy to give back to others. This week, I want to recognize the students of Lambert High School's Youth Give Back Club, founded earlier this school year by freshman Mandy Yang, aimed at alleviating the strain of the pandemic on other students. The Club launched its first project the Learning Pals Program which encourages high school students to virtually teach younger members of our community, offering an opportunity for those younger students to learn about new subjects while also having a safe way to socialize and explore their passions. And now,just a few short months since that program began, it has over 180 registered students! In recognition of their hard work to serve students across our communities, Star 94 selected the members of the Give Back Club as the winners of the radio station's Give Back Giveaway Contest sponsored by Delta Credit Union, awarding them $10,000 for their hard work. Congratulations are certainly in order for Ms. Yang and her fellow student-teachers for their efforts to bring our community closer together through these educational opportunities. FORSYTH ANIMAL SHELTER WAIVES ADOPTION FEES FOR THE HOLIDAYS As we approach the holiday season, many of us are preparing to celebrate with our family and friends through traditions both old new. And for many of us, pets are simply part of the family and are included in many of the holiday traditions and family festivities we cherish year after year. That's why Forsyth County Animal Shelter has decided to make it that much easier to adopt a new member of the family by waiving their standard $85 adoption fee through January 2nd.This action will ensure that these fees do not prohibit these animals from finding a loving, forever home, and this initiative will surely help spread some holiday cheer to our community this year. THE WEEK AHEAD Some promising news was revealed last week as House and Senate leadership came closer to reaching a deal to provide coronavirus relief to American families and businesses. There are a number of items that must still be finalized, like state and local funding as well as liability protections, but the talks seem to be finding some success and we might be able to have a vote on the package before the end of the year. As I mentioned earlier, funding for the federal government runs out at the end of this week as both Chambers work to finalize a deal for FY2021. By mid-week, we should learn more about whether we will take up an omnibus package or short-term continuing resolution as negotiations continue. Finally, the conference committee has almost completed its work regarding the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which I am also hopeful we will be able to get to the president's desk. This will be Congress's 60th consecutive NDAA and I believe we will have the support to uphold this streak. Sincerely, Rob Woodall Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-supports-more-act,BISHOP SUPPORTS MORE ACT,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, released the following statement after the passage of H.R. 3884, Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act of 2020 by the full U.S. House of Representatives: ""Reforming the federal government's laws on marijuana is long overdue. Forty-seven states have already done so and if this bill becomes law, states will not have to worry about federal intervention. In addition to decriminalizing marijuana, this bill will create taxes on marijuana to fund new grant programs and will expunge previous marijuana convictions of non-violent offenders only. ""States have been on the forefront of this issue and its time the federal government caught up. The MORE Act will right historical wrongs and move our country forward.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399460,Congressman David Scott Named Chairman of House Agriculture Committee,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today Congressman David Scott (GA-13) was approved by the Democratic Caucus to serve as the first African American Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee. The committee is empowered with legislative oversight relating to the U.S. agriculture industry, forestry, nutrition, and rural development. I am honored to have been chosen by my colleagues in the Democratic Caucus to serve as Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, said Congressman Scott. I was born on my grandparents' farm in rural Aynor, South Carolina, during the days of segregation, and the hardships, of those, on whose shoulders I now stand. I owe this historic selection as the first African American Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee to a diverse coalition of members from across our nation. And I will use this critical opportunity to represent the values of our entire caucus and advance our priorities for trade, disaster aid, climate change, sustainable agriculture, SNAP, crop insurance, small family farms, specialty crops, and rural broadband. The fault lines dividing our rural and urban communities are running deep, and climate change is now threatening our nation's food supply. As Chairman, I will lead the fight to rise up and meet these challenges. Congressman David Scott has served as a Member of Congress and the House Agriculture Committee since 2003. In his various leadership roles on the House Agriculture Committee, Congressman Scott has chaired the Subcommittees on Commodity Exchanges, Energy, and Credit as well as Livestock and Foreign Agriculture. Scott played a key role in ushering through the three last Farm Bills, including by serving as a conferee, securing critical disaster aid for our farmers, strengthening the food and nutrition programs that help our families, seniors and school children and securing $80 million for new scholarships for students attending 1890 African-American land-grant colleges and universities. Congressman David Scott grew up living and working on his grandparents' farm when his parents moved north to find work. During his 18 years in Congress, he has developed a deep understanding of the critical issues facing farmers today and the practical challenges posed by an agricultural lifestyle. He also understands the critical role agriculture plays in our economy and the importance of policies that preserve our place as the #1 exporter of agricultural products.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-statement-on-congressman-kwanza-hall,BISHOP STATEMENT ON CONGRESSMAN KWANZA HALL,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Dean of the Georgia Congressional Delegation, released the following statement after Congressman Kwanza Hall (GA-05) was sworn in to serve the remainder of Congressman John Lewis' term in the 116th Congress: ""I was proud to be involved in Congressman Hall's swearing in ceremony today. He is a wonderful public servant who will serve in Congressman Lewis' spirit for the rest of his term in the 116th Congress. Congressman Hall knows the Fifth Congressional District and will represent his constituents well until Congresswoman Nikema Williams is sworn in to represent the Fifth District in January for the 117th Congress. Georgians appreciate his service to our state and nation for the remainder of 2020.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-introduces-measure-honor-freedom-riders-gold-medal,Congressman Johnson Introduces Measure to Honor Freedom Riders With Gold Medal,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, introduced a resolution this week calling on Congress to award the Freedom Riders the Congressional Gold Medal. More than 40 members of Congress – including more than 20 members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) – joined Rep. Johnson to cosponsor the bill. The Freedom Rides, which lasted from May to November 1961, included more than 400 black and white Americans who risked their lives to challenge Jim Crow laws – particularly public transportation – in the South. Despite enduring vicious attacks and imprisonment for simply traveling together on buses and trains as they traveled through the Deep South, the Freedom Riders challenged bitter racism and mob violence with nonviolent activism. ""When we understand that mobility is essential to freedom – to control your own destiny – we see that what the Freedom Riders accomplished was nothing less than holding America to the true meaning of the Constitution,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""As much as anyone, they risked their lives to defend the promise of America."" ""The original riders – including my constituents Hank Thomas and Charles Person and my dear friend and former colleague John Lewis – endured insults and beatings and risked their lives 60 years ago because they believed in a different future for their children and their grandchildren."" The 13 original Freedom Riders, who departed on the morning of May 4, 1961, were: Genevieve Hughes Houghton, Charles Person, Hank Thomas, John Lewis, Edward Blankenheim, James Farmer, Walter Bergman, Frances Bergman, Joseph Perkins, Jimmy McDonald, Mae Francis Moultrie, Benjamin Elton Cox, and Albert Bigelow. The two surviving original Freedom Riders are Hank Thomas of Stone Mountain, Ga. and Charles Person of Atlanta. In 2015, Thomas and Person joined Rep. Johnson for a Black History Month program at MLK High School in DeKalb County to discuss the Freedom Rides. ""A number of Freedom Riders are living and dying in poverty,"" said original Freedom Rider Charles Person, who was 18 at the time of the first rides, making him the youngest original rider. ""Many have ruptured family relationships that can never be repaired. We can never repay these patriots for their sacrifice,"" he said. Civil rights icon Jesse Jackson Sr., a lieutenant to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement, praised the effort to recognize the Riders. ""Following the 1954 Brown decision, the 1955-56 Montgomery Bus Boycott to desegregate Montgomery, Alabama's buses, and the 1960 Greensboro student sit-ins at Woolworths, in 1961 Freedom Riders got on Greyhound and Trailways buses and risk their lives as they journeyed South to test federal enforcement of the ""equal protection"" principle in Brown,"" said Jackson. ""Their bus was set on fire in Anniston, Alabama, and the KKK beat them with clubs as they escaped, but they journey on there and elsewhere as they desegregated public transportation. Black and white young people faced possible death with profound courage as they helped to bring the cotton curtain down and make America better. The Medal of Freedom clearly belongs to the Freedom Riders."" If approved by Congress, the Freedom Riders would receive the medal as a group and it would be displayed at the Smithsonian Museum. Cosponsors (42), including: Reps. Adams (NC), Beatty, Bera, Beyer, Bishop (GA), Bustos, Butterfield, Castor, Clarke, Cooper (TN), DeSaulnier, Doyle, Eshoo, Fudge, Gabbard, Garmendi, Green (TX), Grijalva, Haaland, Hastings, Jackson Lee, Kilmer, Kuster, Langevin, Lawrence, Lee (CA), Lowenthal, Lynch, Maloney (NY-12), Maloney (NY-18), Moore (WI), Nadler, Norton, Peters (CA), Pocan, Sarbanes, Schakowsky, Speier, Thompson (MS), Titus, Vargas, Yarmuth. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/news/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=3546,New C-130J Squadron to take flight in Georgia,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement after the United States Air Force announced Georgia as one of the four states set to receive a squadron of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft an aircraft which is solely manufactured in Georgia's 11th Congressional District. share: f t Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement after the United States Air Force announced Georgia as one of the four states set to receive a squadron of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft an aircraft which is solely manufactured in Georgia's 11th Congressional District. This is a big win for the United States Military, our men and women in uniform, and our ability to quickly respond to conflicts across the globe. With the addition of these new C-130Js to Georgia, the world's preeminent military superpower just got stronger. Every C-130J is manufactured in Georgia's 11th Congressional District, at Lockheed Martin's facility in Marietta, which employs close to 5,000 hardworking Georgians. ""I have long advocated for increased C-130J production because they are the only U.S. airlifter still in production, and I've often emphasized the importance of having a squadron of C-130Js for the Georgia Air National Guard. I want to thank Barbara Barrett, Secretary of the Air Force, for supporting Georgia's Air National Guard. I'd also like to thank Georgia Adjutant General, Thomas Carden, for his steadfast leadership and his tireless dedication to increasing opportunities for Georgia guardsmen.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6570EA43-184E-4575-9995-B6BA98E4FBE5,McBath Convenes Senior Resource Town Hall,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-supports-congresswoman-fudge-as-agriculture-secretary,BISHOP SUPPORTS CONGRESSWOMAN FUDGE AS AGRICULTURE SECRETARY,2020-12-01,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, GA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, released the following statement in support of Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) as a candidate for the Secretary of Agriculture in the Biden Administration: ""President-Elect Biden has said he wants his administration to reflect the highest level of competence while being inclusive of the diversity that is the strength of America. I believe Representative Fudge would be a great Secretary of Agriculture because of her high level of competence in that space. ""She is cognizant of the needs of our farmers and the many challenges they face in producing and marketing their product at home and abroad. She is passionate about assuring that rural America receives much needed attention and resources such as Internet, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development opportunities. She is committed to assuring that every American, rural or urban, has access to the highest-quality, safest, most abundant, and most economical food and fiber in the world. ""She is smart, disciplined, innovative and has the administrative, communication, and political skills to implement the Administration's policies through USDA that will move our country safely through the pandemic; help America's families, businesses, and communities recover; and lead our country into a bright new era of hope and prosperity. ""I have every confidence that President-Elect Biden will make the appropriate choice to lead the agency and as Chairman of the Agriculture and Rural Development Subcommittee on Appropriations, I look forward to working with whomever is confirmed.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2D607E57-7DC9-495D-B73A-F750721D6F6F,McBath Statement on the Murder of Aidan Ellison,2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/district-connection-113020,District Connection - 11/30/20,2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"GEORGIA VOTE COUNTING CONTINUES BY THE BOOK In the state of Georgia, we saw record-setting voter turnout for the general election on November 3rd. However, due to the increased use of mail-in ballots, this also meant confirming the official results of many elections could not be done overnight. With election results in several states across the nation too close to call including here in Georgia several steps had to be taken following the initial results to ensure an accurate vote count. For example, in Georgia, the November 3rd election results yielded such incredibly close vote shares in both of the U.S. Senate races and in the U.S. Presidential race that Georgia election laws automatically triggered runoff elections for both of Georgia's U.S. Senate seats and also required Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to launch a state-wide risk-limiting audit, which included a hand count of all ballots, to ensure voting machines yielded the correct results. Following the conclusion of the audit the largest hand count of ballots in recent history Secretary Raffensperger reaffirmed the original outcome of the presidential race in favor of former Vice President Joe Biden and took action to certify those results on November 20th, meeting the statutory deadline set by Georgia election law. However, because former Vice President Biden's margin of victory over President Donald Trump was less than 0.5% in Georgia's certified election results, the Trump campaign is entitled to and requested a formal recount of Georgia's ballots, a process that began last Tuesday to re-scan every legal paper ballot in the state to further ensure the validity of the state's election results. As I said before, there is no higher electoral priority than ensuring the confidence of the American people in our voting systems. I applaud the diligent efforts of our state and local election officials who have worked tirelessly to make sure we get it right. Of course, when allegations of impropriety are raised, those must be investigated. And this election cycle has demonstrated the ways in which we can do better. With all eyes turning to Georgia in these next two months given Georgia's runoffs on January 5th, it is imperative that we do. TRANSITION PROCESS INITIATED Last week, General Services Administration (GSA) Director Emily Murphy announced the formal initiation of its role in making its services available to former Vice President Biden for this transition, and President Trump himself has asked that GSA move forward in its capacity as recounts continue. Ensuring a peaceful transition of power is a cornerstone of our democracy and is one that both Republicans and Democrats have always committed to, even formally this fall by nearly unanimously passing a resolution calling for that in both the House and Senate Chambers. While these election results paint a picture of a divided America, it also paints one of increased civic engagement and participation in our democracy, with roughly 5 million Georgians casting their ballot in 2020 compared to 4.1 million Georgian voters in 2016. Now more than ever, a willingness to engage with one another and push past our disagreements to find the best path forward will be necessary, and I hope we see that increased commitment to bipartisanship as the House and Senate returns next week for its likely final legislative stretch of the 116th Congress. COVID-19 VACCINE DEVELOPMENT MOVES FORWARD Since the onset of the COVID-19 public health emergency, both private industry and the federal government have aggressively pursued the development and deployment of diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines to combat this virus. In particular, I know many of you have been closely following the news of the development of a COVID-19 vaccine, which I recently discussed, highlighting Pfizer and Moderna's announcements about their vaccine candidates. Results from those Phase III clinical trials have been incredibly encouraging, reporting efficacy ratings of more than 90 percent, well-above the 75 percent efficacy rate that earlier this year stood as public health officials' end goal. There are multiple vaccine candidates in the process of clinical trials, and last week, Astra Zeneca announced preliminary results of its trial data indicating anywhere from 62-90 percent efficacy, depending on how the two doses are administered and has the advantage of being stored at refrigerated rather than freezer temperatures. As those studies continue, it is important to remember that our vaccine strategy is not singular, and the successful development of multiple vaccine candidates is needed to address the public health need. While federal leaders begin to outline distribution plans, with federal recommendations on how those should be distributed likely forthcoming, I will continue to call on Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader McConnell, and the White House to pass an additional relief package to ensure that a need for funding is not the roadblock in furthering our ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent the spread of COVID-19. CONSTITUENT SPOTLIGHT: EXPANDING ACCESS TO CARE THROUGH TELEHEALTH The COVID-19 public health emergency has demonstrated the increasingly important role technology and online services have played in providing for the continuity of operations. We have seen that in a number of ways from virtual learning in both K-12 and higher education, to shifts to remote work across large sectors of the economy. This also includes in the delivery of health care services, namely the increased adoption and utilization of telehealth which has played a critical role in preserving access to care when in-person services cannot be provided. Below are some of the messages I have received about telehealth utilization during this time. David from Sugar Hill: I urge you to take immediate legislative steps to make permanent many of the regulatory reforms instituted by federal agencies to fight covid-19. The crisis has exposed a tragic reality - harmful regulations often stand in the way of doctors, nurses, and medical researchers helping people. Amelia from Lawrenceville: Stories are coming in from all over the country from physicians and patients alike about the positive effects of expanding telehealth. It has allowed patients to continue to receive high-quality care using new digital tools. I strongly urge that telehealth services are covered and remain available as a viable option for patients during and beyond the COVID-19 public health emergency. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) took decisive action during the onset of the pandemic to promote access to telehealth services. These actions include lifting geographic and site of service restrictions to allow telehealth services to be delivered wherever a beneficiary is located, expanding the list of services that could be furnished remotely, and expanding the types of practitioners who can provide telehealth services. Truly, the COVID-19 crisis has served as the largest pilot program for many new public policies, telehealth included, and I am glad that these flexibilities have helped provide for continuity of care in a time when it is most critical. HHS's report issued this summer shows just how important a role telehealth services have played during this emergency, with telehealth utilization for primary care increasing by nearly 50 percent at its peak in April 2020. The benefits of telehealth, especially during this time, are evident. And I support the continuation of those policies, particularly as we are seeing increased rates of COVID-19 cases heading into the winter. Though with any broader or permanent extensions of these flexibilities, we must absolutely make certain that we maintain the robust privacy protections we have in place and ensure a high-quality standard of care for Americans and their families. I absolutely expect these enacted flexibilities expanding the utilization of telehealth to continue as national emergency persists. And as the health care debate continues into the next Congress, I am excited about the prospect telehealth services will play in addressing our emerging health care needs, particularly across rural and underserved communities. COMMUNITY MEMBERS HOST THANKSGIVING MEALS FOR THOSE IN NEED Time and again, I come across special members of our Seventh District community who commit themselves fully to the service of others. Last week, Suwanee resident Trenessa Beene Pearson and her nonprofit ministry, Transforming You, hosted its second annual Thanksgiving Day meal for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our community. Pearson founded Transforming You to support and transform the lives of homeless women and children in our community, with the ultimate goal of opening a full-time shelter for those in need. Last week's Thanksgiving event, hosted in George Pierce Park, was held with the support of local businesses and individuals who helped fundraise, prepare, and serve food and much-needed toiletries and gift cards for the event's guests. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Pearson and her volunteers did not hesitate to continue their service, modifying this year's event to best protect those in attendance. After just a two-week hiatus at the start of the lockdown, Transforming You got right back to work. As Pearson said, Put the masks and the gloves on and let's go and we did. I would like to thank Ms. Pearson and all volunteers and supporters of Transforming You for their selfless service to those who are most in-need in our community. Your generosity will go a long way in ensuring that our neighbors do not have to go without this holiday season. ACTS OF SERVICE CONTINUE TO UPLIFT COMMUNITY As we head into the holiday season, I am continuously inspired by so many in our community who are working to give back to our neighbors in need. And for the past nearly three decades, the annual Buck Jones Toy Run has showcased the ways in which giving back is truly a product of the passions of our community. Through this event, over 400 bikers recently gathered for a record-breaking 29th annual Buck Jones Toy Run, riding from Cumming to Dahlonega to raise toys and money for local children. Started in 1991 by Forsyth County Police Chief Buck Jones, this year's rally was met with historic turnout and benefitted multiple charities, including Meals by Grace in Forsyth. I hope you will join me in recognizing this year's volunteers and bikers for their generosity and commitment to giving each child in our community the Christmas they deserve. THE WEEK AHEAD As I mentioned in last week's newsletter, there are still a number of legislative priorities that must be completed before the end of this Congress, including the National Defense Authorization Act which is currently in conference committee as both chambers begin to work out the differences between our two bills; government funding for FY2021 which the respective Senate and House Appropriations Committees have begun their discussions on how to move forward; and the ever-elusive COVID-19 relief package that has stalled these past few months. However, rather than take up any of these important bills, the House will be returning this week to vote on H.R. 3884, the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Expungement Act, which would remove marijuana from the list of controlled substances and associated criminal statutes, in addition to establishing a trust fund to assist those who have been adversely affected by the criminalization of marijuana. While I welcome the debate on federal criminal statutes governing marijuana use, possession, and distribution, I believe it is the wrong time for the House to utilize such precious time discussing a bill with no path forward rather than delivering results for the American people who continue to struggle during this pandemic. Sincerely, Rob Woodall Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4569,Congressman Allen Tests Positive for Coronavirus,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,Rick Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Allen Tests Positive for Coronavirus f t # e Washington, November 24, 2020 Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) today released the following statement after testing positive for COVID-19: ""I have been undergoing regular COVID-19 testing and learned today that I have tested positive for COVID-19. I do not have any symptoms and will continue to work on behalf of the 12th District from home as I quarantine."" f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4570,Allen Statement on New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam Court Decision,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,Rick Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Allen Statement on New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam Court Decision f t # e Washington, November 24, 2020 Yesterday, the United States District Court for South Carolina ordered in favor of the State of South Carolina and the City of Augusta in the case against the Savannah District Army Corps of Engineers regarding their proposed plan to remove the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam and move forward with a rock weir that would not maintain the current pool of water. Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) today released the following statement: ""This ruling states what I've been saying all along: Maintaining the pool means adhering to the pool level on the date of the WIIN Act's enactment -- 114.5 ft. Our Congressional delegation and local leaders have worked tirelessly on this issue and I am very encouraged by this news. I look forward to continue working toward a solution that is best for our community."" f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7715,Carter Applauds Air Force Decision to Replace C-130 Aircrafts at the 165th Airlift Wing in Savannah,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,Buddy Carter,C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,,,legacy,"Carter Applauds Air Force Decision to Replace C-130 Aircrafts at the 165th Airlift Wing in Savannah f t # e Washington, November 24, 2020 Followingrequestsfrom Congressman Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter (R-Ga.), the United States Air Force announced today they will replace aging C-130H aircraft at the 165th Airlift Wing in Savannah with newer C-130J models.""This is great news,""said Carter.""This decision will ensure longevity for the mission in Savannah and assist them in their role as the region's pre-eminent airlift wing. Whether it's supporting combatant commanders in the field or assisting in disaster relief, the 165th Airlift Wing continues to do tremendous work for the Air National Guard and our communities."" Background: Today, the U.S. Air Force announced the basing decisions for the next round of C-130J aircraft and the 165th Airlift Wing in Savannah made the list. Contingent on aircraft being included in the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act, the wing will receive the newer C-130J models to replace their aging C-130H models in late 2023. Clickhereto view the request from Carter and Senators Perdue and Loeffler. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://ferguson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3156,Ferguson on IRS Deductible Eligibility Ruling for Paycheck Protection Program Loans,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,A. Ferguson,F000465,ferguson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Ferguson on IRS Deductible Eligibility Ruling for Paycheck Protection Program Loans WASHINGTON, DC Representatives Drew Ferguson (R-Ga.), released the following statement after the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) ruled that Paycheck Protection Program loans are ineligible to deduct from small business tax filings: In order to help small businesses keep their doors open during the unprecedented global pandemic, Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act which put in place the Paycheck Protection Program. This legislation brought financial relief to vulnerable small businesses to assist them through this troubling time. Congress's goal was to lift up businesses by allowing these PPP loans to be forgivable if business owners retained their workforce. The program has been a major success in preventing many small businesses from permanently shutting their doors. The intent of Congress under the CARES Act was to provide financial support and flexibility to businesses and job creators to weather this unpredictable economic storm. That is why in May I joined my colleague Rep. George Holding (R-NC) as an original co-sponsor of H.R.6821, the Small Business Expense Protection Act of 2020. This bill would amend the CARES Act to allow ordinary business expenses purchased with PPP funds to still qualify for the standard business tax deductions. Unfortunately, the ruling from the IRS last week to make funds from the Paycheck Protection Program ineligible for standard business tax deductions undermines the objective of the program. When so many workers and small businesses are scrapping to get from one day to the next, this bureaucratic interpretation of the law does not go far enough to assist American workers and businesses fighting to survive. It is now up to Congress to ensure a legislative solution to this problem impacting American businesses. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-johnson-speier-torres-urge-gao-review-workplace-harassment,"Reps. Johnson, Speier, Torres Urge GAO Review on Workplace Harassment in the Judicial Branch",2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet; Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-14), co-chair of the Democratic Women's Caucus and the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence; and Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35), member of the House Appropriations and Rules Committees, sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting a comprehensive review of the protections against sexual harassment and other forms of workplace misconduct available to federal judicial branch employees. ""In recent years, the extent to which judicial branch employees are protected from workplace harassment — including sexual harassment, other forms of discrimination including racial discrimination, and retaliation — has been the subject of persistent Congressional oversight,"" the Members wrote. ""However, concerns remain as to whether there are adequate safeguards in place to protect employees from and facilitate redress for workplace misconduct. We ask GAO to review the judicial branch's current efforts to stop workplace sexual harassment and other forms of workplace discrimination and retaliation."" The letter requests GAO to examine to what extent the Judicial Branch has implemented and provided oversight of its policies for addressing incidents of sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation in the workplace; whether and how the Judicial Branch tracks complaints and investigations of workplace misconduct; and the extent to which perpetrators are held accountable. The Members have requested GAO's efforts include outreach, to the extent possible, to victims of harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and other workplace misconduct. Chairman Johnson held a hearing on the issue in February. To read the full letter, click HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-johnson-speier-torres-urge-gao-review-workplace-harassment-judicial,"Reps. Johnson, Speier, Torres Urge GAO Review on Workplace Harassment in the Judicial Branch",2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,GA,Hank Johnson,J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet; Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-14), co-chair of the Democratic Women's Caucus and the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence; and Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35), member of the House Appropriations and Rules Committees, sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting a comprehensive review of the protections against sexual harassment and other forms of workplace misconduct available to federal judicial branch employees. In recent years, the extent to which judicial branch employees are protected from workplace harassment including sexual harassment, other forms of discrimination including racial discrimination, and retaliation has been the subject of persistent Congressional oversight, the Members wrote. However, concerns remain as to whether there are adequate safeguards in place to protect employees from and facilitate redress for workplace misconduct. We ask GAO to review the judicial branch's current efforts to stop workplace sexual harassment and other forms of workplace discrimination and retaliation. The letter requests GAO to examine to what extent the Judicial Branch has implemented and provided oversight of its policies for addressing incidents of sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation in the workplace; whether and how the Judicial Branch tracks complaints and investigations of workplace misconduct; and the extent to which perpetrators are held accountable. The Members have requested GAO's efforts include outreach, to the extent possible, to victims of harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and other workplace misconduct. Chairman Johnson held a hearing on the issue in February. To read the full letter, click HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399456,Congressman David Scott Honored With Friend of Farm Bureau Award,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman David Scott Honored With Friend of Farm Bureau Award Today, Georgia Farm Bureau recognized U.S. Representative David Scott (GA-13) for receiving the Friend of Farm Bureau Award for the 116th Congress. The Friend of Farm Bureau Award is presented every two years to members of Congress who support federal legislation and regulatory initiatives to improve the lives of farmers and the rural communities they call home. Congressman Scott has been a good friend to Georgia farmers and rural communities for years in Washington, and we are very pleased to present him with the Friend of Farm Bureau Award for his work to improve the farm safety net, expand rural broadband, and secure much-needed agricultural disaster assistance, to name a few of his initiatives, said Georgia Farm Bureau President Gerald Long. Additionally, Congressman David Scott recently announced his intent to lead the House Agriculture Committee in the 117th Congress. Mr. Scott would do an excellent job at the helm of such an important committee. I'm confident that the priorities of American farmers and rural communities would be thepriorities of the House Agriculture Committee should he be named Chairman. Mr. Scott has the full support of our organization, said Georgia Farm Bureau President Gerald Long.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/washington-watch-112320,Washington Watch - 11/23/20,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"HAPPY THANKSGIVING As we head into this year's holiday season, I want to wish you and your family a happy and healthy Thanksgiving. This year has been, without a doubt, a difficult one for so many in our country due to COVID-19. And celebrations around the dinner table will undeniably look different this year compared to most, with many families across the country opting to observe this day with one another virtually in order to best protect friends and loved ones. The CDC has issued updated guidelines on how to best observe Thanksgiving this Thursday, and I encourage you all to continue to follow public health and social distancing protocols to help prevent this virus' spread. Giving thanks in times like these can be difficult, yet we are all blessed in unique ways. Thanksgiving remains a time to reflect on those blessings. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve the Seventh District for the past ten years, and I am thankful for your support, your instruction, and your encouragement every step of the way. May God bless each and every one of you and your families this Thanksgiving season. HOUSE MISSES OPPORTUNITY FOR BIPARTISAN APPRENTICESHIP REFORM Members in the House returned to Capitol Hill this past week and brought forward a bill H.R. 8294 to update the National Apprenticeship Act. Over 80 years ago, Congress enacted the National Apprenticeship Act, which created the national registered apprenticeship (RA) system under the U.S. Department of Labor. Apprenticeships prepare workers for specific and highly-skilled occupations through paid on-the-job training and related educational instruction. At a time when more than 45 million Americans hold over $1.5 trillion in federal student loan debt, apprenticeships have and will continue to be an increasingly viable career option, creating an alternative pathway to high-paying jobs that ensure our workforce is well-trained and highly skilled. The National Apprenticeship Act serves a critical role in the apprenticeship space, graduating more than 80,000 apprentices last year in more than 1,200 recognized apprenticeable occupations. Most impressively, more than 94 percent of program graduates go on to retain their employment, virtually debt free, with an average starting salary of $70,000 a year. Republicans and Democrats overwhelmingly agree about the merits of this program, and I was pleased to talk about those merits when managing rule debate for H.R. 8294 on the House floor. However, it is clear that there is room for improvement to modernize the national registered apprenticeship program to meet our needs in the 21st century. We were within an inch of passing a truly bipartisan bill, and I am disappointed that the Majority failed to adopt, both in Committee and when offered on the floor, any Republican amendments to cut down on the bureaucratic hoops to register more apprenticeships in the federal program. Businesses need the ability to tailor these programs to meet their individual needs, and we had an opportunity to provide 21st century updates to this 20th century. Unfortunately, for reasons that I simply cannot explain, the majority choose to jam through a partisan bill that will now go nowhere instead of working on a bipartisan bill that could pass the Senate and be signed by the President. You can listen to my remarks by clicking the picture below. Rep. Rob Woodall Manages Rule Debate for H.R. 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 In the time we have remaining in the 116th Congress, it is shame that our work continues to focus on pushing bills that have no future in the Senate and are ones that the President has indicated he won't sign. We need to focus on delivering for the American people, which means getting bills signed into law. As I said on the House floor, opportunities for that success exist in a bipartisan agreement on police reform, bipartisan appropriations bills for funding the government for Fiscal Year 2021, bipartisan support for COVID-19 testing and vaccines, and additional support for businesses and workers, including renewing the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). We can do better, and I will continue to call on Speaker Pelosi and the White House and Senate leaders to get it done. HOUSE RESOLUTIONS STRENGTHEN U.S. RELATIONS ABROAD While the American people wait on House Democratic leadership to come to the negotiating table to deliver COVID-19 relief for our hospitals and local businesses, my colleagues did come together to pass a number of bipartisan resolutions under suspension of the rules last week, a process which expedites the oftentimes cumbersome legislative process. I am always pleased to see Congress speak in a unified voice on some of the most critical issues of our day, including the rising threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and other key geopolitical issues. First, the House passed several resolutions condemning the CCP's draconian human rights record, especially with respect to the citizens of Hong Kong and Tibet. The first, H.Res. 1033, expresses solidarity with the people of Hong Kong and condemns the Chinese government's brutal crackdowns on peaceful protests there. The second, H.Res. 697, similarly expresses solidarity with the people of Tibet and their peaceful quest for real autonomy, despite brutal repression by the CCP. It is critical that the United States government continues to stand in support of human rights around the world, and I was encouraged to see both of these statements pass with resounding bipartisan support. I was also pleased to see the House come together by way of H.Res. 809 and H.Res. 1012 to express our support for the U.S. South Korea relationship, a geopolitical alliance that has, over time, strengthened into a true friendship based on shared ideals of democracy and respect for human rights. The former resolution also recognized the incredible contributions of Korean-Americans in our country. The U.S.-Korea relationship is truly unique, and I look forward to seeing the global impact this partnership will have in the years ahead. RECOGNIZING PANCREATIC CANCER AWARENESS MONTH Many of you may have seen friends and neighbors across our community, and across the nation, dawning purple these last few weeks as part of a coordinated effort to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer. That's because November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and this past Thursday was World Pancreatic Day a time aimed at bringing renewed attention to combatting this cancer. Pancreatic cancer is projected to be the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States this year, and 2020 has reminded us why it is as important as ever to raise awareness and support to combat it. As many of you know, just this year, our nation lost my friend and colleague, Congressman John Lewis, to pancreatic cancer, along with roughly 47,000 Americans. With nearly 60,000 Americans diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year, a focus on basic research and early detection is needed, and I am proud of the increased commitment I have seen over the last decade in Congress in that endeavor. The bipartisan commitment we have seen to ensuring our leading federal research institutions like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are best equipped to fight this cancer, and the many other diseases and disorders that plague Americans, is significant. I was glad to join my colleagues in pressing for additional NIH funding, and I expect we will see increases again this year as Congress works to pass its final appropriations bills before the funding deadline on December 11th. CONSTITUENT SPOTLIGHT: ADVANCING BIPARTISAN BILLS THROUGH THE HOUSE While it is undeniably true that political disagreements stand in the way of achieving some of our collective legislative goals, it is also true that you hear less about those bills that have wide support from Members on both sides of the aisle. Below are messages I have received from individuals back home about targeted bills and issues they would like to see Congress address. Jamie from Peachtree Corners: As a constituent and a member of the food allergy community, I'm asking that you co-sponsor the (FASTER) Act (H.R. 2117), a bipartisan bill co-sponsored by over 90 House Members. This bill is crucial to me as it protects the estimated 1.5 million Americans allergic to sesame by requiring sesame to become the ninth allergen listed on food labels. James from Cumming: Each year, an estimated 8 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean -- the equivalent of a full garbage truck being dumped into the sea every minute. This plastic waste litters our beaches, contaminates waterways and threatens marine wildlife. I urge you to support forthcoming legislation and to do all you can to help move our country beyond plastic. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ As I described earlier, passing bills under suspension of the rules is a procedural mechanism that the House can deploy to bring legislation to the floor. Passage of these bills require two-thirds support of House Members and is used to advance those pieces of legislation that have broad, bipartisan support. While these bills are often smaller measures compared to the larger bills that pass through my desk on the Rules Committee, they comprise much of the House's bill load and are often common-sense, targeted fixes that can better serve Americans. Last week the House came together to pass more than 50 suspension bills, which you can read HERE. Among those bills passed this week was the bill that Jamie supported the H.R. 2117, the FASTER Act. This bill directs the Food and Drug Administration to add sesame the ninth most common food allergen to its list of eight major food allergens that are required to be identified on food packages. The bill also requires the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to expand the collection of information about food allergies in the United States. Additionally, as James mentioned, the desire to protect our oceans from harmful pollutants is a shared one, and the House passed H.R. 4636, the PLASTICS Act, which directs the State Department and USAID to further their pollution reduction programs to reduce plastic pollution globally. Lastly, I was glad to see the Chamber pass several bipartisan Transportation and Infrastructure bills, including H.R. 8408, the Aircraft Certification Reform and Accountability Act, which I spoke about in a previous newsletter and will update Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversight, strengthening our aviation safety standards. With the end of the 116th Congress drawing near, it is good to see bipartisan action across multiple committees and areas of jurisdiction. I hope that trend continues when my colleagues and I return to Washington soon for our last legislative stretch. HONORING GEORGIA'S 2021 ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR The Seventh District truly is home to some of the most remarkable students, faculty, and staff in some of the best schools in the state of Georgia. That tradition of excellence means I am never short of opportunities to highlight that good work, including the recent announcement that Forsyth Central High School's Dr. Josh Lowe was recently named as Georgia's 2021 Assistant Principal of the Year. The Georgia Association of Secondary School Principals selected Dr. Lowe for this honor because of his long record of servant leadership in education. After 20 years as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and now as an assistant principal, Dr. Lowe is still as enthusiastic and service-minded as he was in the very beginning. From mentoring new administrators to working collaboratively with teachers, Dr. Lowe hopes to continue to build on Forsyth County Schools' outstanding record of academic excellence. We ask a great deal of our teachers and administrators who we task with our children's educational upbringing, especially during this time. When there is an opportunity to recognize those who go above and beyond in that mission, we must seize it and let those servant leaders among us know how much we appreciate them. That is why I hope you will join me in congratulating Dr. Lowe and his team at Forsyth Central High School on this great achievement. GWINNETT COUNTY LAUNCHES NEW EVICTION PREVENTION PROGRAM The efforts to address the harmful public health and economic effects caused by COVID-19 have demanded an all-of-government response that brings together federal, state, and local leaders to provide assistance. With federal support from the CARES Act's Coronavirus Relief Fund which provided $150 billion in assistance to state and local governments, Gwinnett County has launched Project Reset a program providing past due rent payments to help families facing eviction. Project Reset is a partnership between HomeFirst Gwinnett and the Gwinnett Magistrate Court, aimed at addressing the 400 active dispossessory filings currently in Gwinnett Magistrate Court where eviction for families is imminent. The second phase of the program will seek to help renters in the pre-eviction face and before eviction notices are filed. I encourage those of you in need of this assistance to call 770-847-6765 or emailMagistrateCourtProjectRESET@gwinnettcounty.com to learn what relief options may be available to you through this program. THE WEEKS AHEAD As Congress takes a brief recess for the Thanksgiving holiday, there is still much left for us to complete before the end of the year. In the coming weeks, we will hold a series of elections to determine committee leadership for the 117th Congress, which in our case will determine the new ranking members for committees that I have served, including Budget. Additionally, the House must take up a number of legislative items including the Water Resources and Development Act, funding the federal government for Fiscal Year 2021, complete our work to finalize the sixtieth consecutive National Defense Authorization Act, and potentially an additional, much needed COVID-19 relief package to address the increase in cases of Coronavirus, the anticipated rollout of vaccines and therapeutics, and assistance for small businesses as we enter the winter months of the pandemic. I believe all of my colleagues share the same desire to complete consideration of all these major bills before the end of the year, and I am hopeful we will take these next few weeks to hunker down and get it done. Sincerely, Rob Woodall Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-austin-scott-leads-bipartisan-push-level-playing-field-georgia-s,Rep. Austin Scott Leads Bipartisan Push to Level the Playing Field for Georgias Specialty Crop Producers,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Rep. Austin Scott (R-GA-08) lead a bipartisan letter to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Robert Lighthizer requesting a Section 332 investigation request to the International Trade Commission for cucumbers and squash to make a meaningful determination as to the impact of these seasonal imports on Southeastern markets. Joining Rep. Scott on the letter were Reps. Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02), Rick Allen (R-GA-12), and Buddy Carter (R-GA-01). Georgia growers testified at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative's (USTR) hearings in August regarding seasonal perishable fruit and vegetable imports. These fruit and vegetable imports from Mexico continue to dramatically impact U.S. markets and threaten the future of domestic farm production of perishable produce. As the fall season in Georgia is now in full swing, it appears that the problem is only getting worse, wrote the Members. A Section 332 investigation request to the International Trade Commission for cucumbers and squash is needed in order to make a meaningful determination as to the impact of these seasonal imports on Southeastern markets. These market changes occur quickly and can make or break a grower's season in a matter of days if import increases and the resulting price decreases coincide with harvest. On November 18, Senators David Perdue (R-GA) and Kelly Loeffler (R-GA) sent a similar letter to Ambassador Lighthizer requesting this investigation for cucumber and squash imports. You can click here to read their letter. The full letter can be found by clicking here or below. November 20, 2020 The Honorable Robert Lighthizer United States Trade Representative 600 17th St NW, Washington, D.C. 20006 Dear Ambassador Lighthizer: Georgia growers testified at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative's (USTR) hearings in August regarding seasonal perishable fruit and vegetable imports. These fruit and vegetable imports from Mexico continue to dramatically impact U.S. markets and threaten the future of domestic farm production of perishable produce. As the fall season in Georgia is now in full swing, it appears that the problem is only getting worse. Just as growers are beginning to harvest, many are finding that still increasing imports from Mexico are driving prices below the cost of production. We were pleased to see that USTR has requested a Section 332 for strawberries and bell peppers. However, we believe the inclusion of other commodities, such as cucumbers and squash, in the Section 332 request, would provide some assistance to growers as they continue to struggle with seasonal imports for the upcoming harvest season. In the last twelve months, we have seen further growth in imports across several vegetable products. For example, cucumbers' import value is at $894 million which is a 10% increase from September 2019 and August of 2020. Squash's import value at $473 million is a 27% increase during that same time period. Year to date load totals from Mexico for cucumbers, in 2020, have more than doubled from the same period in 2019. Likewise, bell pepper truck loads from Mexico have also more than doubled. Squash appears to be the next crop to follow suit with over 100 additional more loads having arrived at U.S. markets so far this year just as southeastern growers have begun their squash harvests. Price has followed supply and growers are now reporting tumbling prices across the board for vegetables. Prices are now well below U.S. production costs for several of these commodities and appear to correlate directly with increasing fall shipments from Mexico. Unfortunately, data and pricing available for national markets appears to be in direct conflict to the actual prices growers are receiving. A Section 332 investigation request to the International Trade Commission for cucumbers and squash is needed in order to make a meaningful determination as to the impact of these seasonal imports on Southeastern markets. These market changes occur quickly and can make or break a grower's season in a matter of days if import increases and the resulting price decreases coincide with harvest. We appreciate your efforts on behalf of our fruit and vegetable growers. Sincerely, Austin Scott Member of Congress Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. Member of Congress Rick W. Allen Member of Congress Earl L. Buddy Carter Member of Congress -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=BC4BFC20-80FB-4076-933A-31D9ED1B5849,Rep. Austin Scott Leads Bipartisan Push to Level the Playing Field for Georgia’s Specialty Crop Producers,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Austin Scott (R-GA-08) lead a bipartisan letter to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Robert Lighthizer requesting a Section 332 investigation request to the International Trade Commission for cucumbers and squash to make a meaningful determination as to the impact of these seasonal imports on Southeastern markets. Joining Rep. Scott on the letter were Reps. Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02), Rick Allen (R-GA-12), and Buddy Carter (R-GA-01). “Georgia growers testified at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s (USTR) hearings in August regarding seasonal perishable fruit and vegetable imports. These fruit and vegetable imports from Mexico continue to dramatically impact U.S. markets and threaten the future of domestic farm production of perishable produce. As the fall season in Georgia is now in full swing, it appears that the problem is only getting worse,” wrote the Members. “A Section 332 investigation request to the International Trade Commission for cucumbers and squash is needed in order to make a meaningful determination as to the impact of these seasonal imports on Southeastern markets. These market changes occur quickly and can make or break a grower’s season in a matter of days if import increases and the resulting price decreases coincide with harvest.” On November 18, Senators David Perdue (R-GA) and Kelly Loeffler (R-GA) sent a similar letter to Ambassador Lighthizer requesting this investigation for cucumber and squash imports. You can click here to read their letter. The full letter can be found by clicking here or below. November 20, 2020 The Honorable Robert Lighthizer United States Trade Representative 600 17th St NW, Washington, D.C. 20006 Dear Ambassador Lighthizer: Georgia growers testified at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s (USTR) hearings in August regarding seasonal perishable fruit and vegetable imports. These fruit and vegetable imports from Mexico continue to dramatically impact U.S. markets and threaten the future of domestic farm production of perishable produce. As the fall season in Georgia is now in full swing, it appears that the problem is only getting worse. Just as growers are beginning to harvest, many are finding that still increasing imports from Mexico are driving prices below the cost of production. We were pleased to see that USTR has requested a Section 332 for strawberries and bell peppers. However, we believe the inclusion of other commodities, such as cucumbers and squash, in the Section 332 request, would provide some assistance to growers as they continue to struggle with seasonal imports for the upcoming harvest season. In the last twelve months, we have seen further growth in imports across several vegetable products. For example, cucumbers’ import value is at $894 million which is a 10% increase from September 2019 and August of 2020. Squash’s import value at $473 million is a 27% increase during that same time period. Year to date load totals from Mexico for cucumbers, in 2020, have more than doubled from the same period in 2019. Likewise, bell pepper truck loads from Mexico have also more than doubled. Squash appears to be the next crop to follow suit with over 100 additional more loads having arrived at U.S. markets so far this year just as southeastern growers have begun their squash harvests. Price has followed supply and growers are now reporting tumbling prices across the board for vegetables. Prices are now well below U.S. production costs for several of these commodities and appear to correlate directly with increasing fall shipments from Mexico. Unfortunately, data and pricing available for national markets appears to be in direct conflict to the actual prices growers are receiving. A Section 332 investigation request to the International Trade Commission for cucumbers and squash is needed in order to make a meaningful determination as to the impact of these seasonal imports on Southeastern markets. These market changes occur quickly and can make or break a grower’s season in a matter of days if import increases and the resulting price decreases coincide with harvest. We appreciate your efforts on behalf of our fruit and vegetable growers. Sincerely, Austin Scott Member of Congress Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. Member of Congress Rick W. Allen Member of Congress Earl L. “Buddy” Carter Member of Congress -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B72B10F8-D467-4269-BCA1-94570D5EF8F3,McBath Votes to Pass Legislation Strengthening America’s Workforce,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,,0,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4567,Rep. Allen Opposes Rollback of Trump-Established Apprenticeship Program,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,Rick Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) spoke during debate on the House floor in opposition to H.R. 8294, partisan legislation that would rollback the apprenticeship program established and championed by President Trump, instead opting for a one-size-fits-all federal registered apprenticeship system that imposes more bureaucratic red tape and requirements. Congressman Allen's remarks can be found below. I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 8294. I come from the construction industry, which I learned from the ground up, and I know firsthand how apprenticeships provide our workforce with the unique opportunity to gain valuable skills that are needed to secure a good-paying job and a long-lasting career. The reason why apprenticeships are so successful is because employers know exactly what skills are in demand. That is why we must encourage more employer-led innovation in the apprenticeship space. But this legislation denies workers and employers autonomy to create programs that are responsive to workforce needs. This shortsighted bill would undo the Department of Labor's Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs, created under President Trump. This program provides companies an alternative avenue to train skilled workers and develop apprentice programs for their specific industry needs. This year has already been tough on our employers with COVID-19 devastating businesses across the country and the last thing we need is to impose more bureaucratic red tape and requirements. I am disappointed that my Democrat colleagues are pushing a plan that would put these job-filling programs in jeopardy and prevent more workers from accessing these opportunities. I believe that this is a space for bipartisanship, and I urge my colleagues to oppose this flawed approach and work with us to encourage innovation and flexibility.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/news/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=3538,Press Release: Rep. Loudermilk Introduces THRIVE Act to Reduce Bureaucratic Overreach,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga) issued the following statement after he introduced the Terminating Heavy Regulations to Invigorate a Vibrant Economy (THRIVE) Act: For decades now, the executive branch has undergone tremendous change, and it has drifted further and further from what the Framers outlined in Article II of the Constitution. Some presidents have used the executive branch to circumvent Congress sometimes unconstitutionally - and impose or pressure government agencies or institutions into following an ideological agenda. Thankfully, the Congressional Review Act [cra] provides Congress with the ability to undo some of these actions. Unfortunately, the CRA does not give Congress the ability to undo all unconstitutional and over regulatory actions taken by an administration. This bill would help bring the executive branch back into accordance with what the Founders of our nation outlined in the Constitution by expanding the scope of the CRA to include regulatory guidance. This bill will also limit the scope of the CRA to exclude deregulatory actions, including those actions used to increase the effectiveness of Operation Warp Speed. This would make it more difficult to restore heavy-handed regulations. Operation Warp Speed and related deregulatory actions have led to scientific breakthroughs long thought impossible. Recent deregulatory actions are supporting an improving economy after the effects of COVID-19. The THRIVE Act makes critical reforms to focus and improve the Congressional Review Act of 1996, which serves as a critical tool providing expedited legislative accountability for federal red tape. Seizing upon Trump Administration reforms requiring agencies to identify deregulatory' actions, this bill would ensure that Congress' disapproval of regulations are focused on those rules, often finalized at the end of a presidential term, that expand government power and impose costs on the country. This would protect recent beneficial reforms to streamline federal infrastructure reviews, protect retirees' savings, improve health care nondiscrimination programs, and defend independent contractors. Disapproval of these final actions by Congress would re-impose billions of dollars of unnecessary costs on the American people as well as close the door to related reforms in the future. - Clint Woods, Policy Fellow, Americans for Prosperity Independent Women's Voice, which fights to enhance people's freedom, choices, and opportunities, is proud to support the Terminating Heavy Regulations to Invigorate a Vibrant Economy (THRIVE) Act, introduced by Representative Barry Loudermilk. This bill would amend the Congressional Review Act of 1996 (CRA) to exempt deregulatory actions from CRA review. Currently, Congress has the ability to block deregulatory efforts under the CRA. The THRIVE Act would modernize the CRA to avoid bottlenecks in the regulatory reform process and to ensure that existing regulatory reforms are not dismantled. - Hadley Heath Manning, Director of Policy, Independent Women's Voice (Additional comments from IWV can be found, HERE) To read the THRIVE Act, please CLICK HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-austin-scott-named-negotiator-defense-bill-1,Rep. Austin Scott Named Negotiator for Defense Bill,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), was chosen to serve on a conference committee for the House and Senate versions of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (FY21 NDAA), which will work through differences in the House and Senate versions of FY21 NDAA. This morning, the conference committee held their first meeting to outline each Chamber's priorities for the final legislation. During the virtual event, Rep. Scott stressed the importance of continuing to support current systems which provide battle-proven capabilities around the world, like the E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) and the A-10C Warthog, until there are systems in place which exceed the capabilities that these systems provide to the warfighter. Following today's announcement and the committee's first meeting, Rep. Scott released the following statement: I'm very honored to be chosen to serve on the FY21 NDAA Conference Committee. While the House's FY21 NDAA wasn't perfect, I believe we were able to accomplish many goals important to Georgia and the nation, including new investments in systems and platforms across the Department of Defense and a 3% pay raise for our troops. Over the coming weeks, I look forward to hammering out a final piece of legislation that meets the unique challenges we face in securing freedom and keeping Americans safe, said Rep. Austin Scott. Throughout his time serving his constituents in Georgia's 8th district, Austin has distinguished himself as a selfless leader who holds true to conservative principles and understands the importance of a strong and capable military. That is why he was hand-picked to serve as a conferee on this year's NDAA. His entrepreneurial expertise and work in risk management will help navigate the most important piece of legislation Congress takes on - the defense bill that supports our service members and keeps our military strong. With Austin on the team, I know we will have an outcome worthy of our incredible service members, said House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23). Rep. Scott receiving an update on COVID-19 response from leadership at Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, Georgia, earlier this year. Rep. Scott has focused on ensuring our military remains equipped to combat COVID-19 while carrying out their important missions. The following Members of HASC were named to serve on the House-Senate Conference Committee: Ranking Member Mac Thornberry (TX-13) Ranking Member Mike Rogers (AL-03) Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-02) Rep. Mike Turner (OH-10) Rep. Doug Lamborn (CO-05) Rep. Rob Wittman (VA-01) Rep. Austin Scott (GA-08) Rep. Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) Rep. Elise Stefanik (NY-21) Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01) Rep. Mike Gallagher (WI-08) Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) Rep. Jim Banks (IN-03) The following Members were named to serve on the House-Senate Conference Committee as outside conferees: Rep. Mike Conaway (TX-11), House Committee on Agriculture Rep. Chris Stewart (UT-02), House Committee on the Budget Rep. Brett Guthrie (KY-02), House Committee on Education and Labor Rep. Greg Walden (OR-02), House Committee on Energy and Commerce Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03), House Committee on Financial Services Rep. Michael McCaul (TX-10), House Committee on Foreign Affairs Rep. Mark Green (TN-07), House Committee on Homeland Security Rep. Rodney Davis (IL-13), House Committee on Administration Rep. Devin Nunes (CA-22), Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Rep. Greg Steube (FL-17), House Committee on the Judiciary Rep. Rob Bishop (UT-01), House Committee on Natural Resources Rep. James Comer (KY-01), House Committee on Oversight and Reform Rep. Mike Garcia (CA-25), House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Rep. Steve Chabot (OH-01), House Committee on Small Business Rep. Bob Gibbs (OH-07), House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Rep. Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), House Committee on Ways and Means -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B2A6AEBB-5AE8-48AF-8983-00AC8DD00423,Rep. Austin Scott Named Negotiator for Defense Bill,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), was chosen to serve on a conference committee for the House and Senate versions of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (FY21 NDAA), which will work through differences in the House and Senate versions of FY21 NDAA. This morning, the conference committee held their first meeting to outline each Chamber’s priorities for the final legislation. During the virtual event, Rep. Scott stressed the importance of continuing to support current systems which provide battle-proven capabilities around the world, like the E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) and the A-10C Warthog, until there are systems in place which exceed the capabilities that these systems provide to the warfighter. Following today’s announcement and the committee’s first meeting, Rep. Scott released the following statement: “I’m very honored to be chosen to serve on the FY21 NDAA Conference Committee. While the House’s FY21 NDAA wasn’t perfect, I believe we were able to accomplish many goals important to Georgia and the nation, including new investments in systems and platforms across the Department of Defense and a 3% pay raise for our troops. Over the coming weeks, I look forward to hammering out a final piece of legislation that meets the unique challenges we face in securing freedom and keeping Americans safe,” said Rep. Austin Scott. “Throughout his time serving his constituents in Georgia’s 8th district, Austin has distinguished himself as a selfless leader who holds true to conservative principles and understands the importance of a strong and capable military. That is why he was hand-picked to serve as a conferee on this year’s NDAA. His entrepreneurial expertise and work in risk management will help navigate the most important piece of legislation Congress takes on - the defense bill that supports our service members and keeps our military strong. With Austin on the team, I know we will have an outcome worthy of our incredible service members,” said House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23). [[{""fid"":""613"",""view_mode"":""full"",""fields"":{""format"":""full"",""field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]"":false},""link_text"":null,""type"":""media"",""field_deltas"":{""1"":{""format"":""full"",""field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]"":false}},""attributes"":{""height"":4032,""width"":3024,""style"":""height: 433px; width: 325px; border-width: 2px; border-style: solid;"",""class"":""media-element file-full"",""data-delta"":""1""}}]] Rep. Scott receiving an update on COVID-19 response from leadership at Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, Georgia, earlier this year. Rep. Scott has focused on ensuring our military remains equipped to combat COVID-19 while carrying out their important missions. The following Members of HASC were named to serve on the House-Senate Conference Committee: Ranking Member Mac Thornberry (TX-13) Ranking Member Mike Rogers (AL-03) Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-02) Rep. Mike Turner (OH-10) Rep. Doug Lamborn (CO-05) Rep. Rob Wittman (VA-01) Rep. Austin Scott (GA-08) Rep. Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) Rep. Elise Stefanik (NY-21) Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01) Rep. Mike Gallagher (WI-08) Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) Rep. Jim Banks (IN-03) The following Members were named to serve on the House-Senate Conference Committee as outside conferees: Rep. Mike Conaway (TX-11), House Committee on Agriculture Rep. Chris Stewart (UT-02), House Committee on the Budget Rep. Brett Guthrie (KY-02), House Committee on Education and Labor Rep. Greg Walden (OR-02), House Committee on Energy and Commerce Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03), House Committee on Financial Services Rep. Michael McCaul (TX-10), House Committee on Foreign Affairs Rep. Mark Green (TN-07), House Committee on Homeland Security Rep. Rodney Davis (IL-13), House Committee on Administration Rep. Devin Nunes (CA-22), Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Rep. Greg Steube (FL-17), House Committee on the Judiciary Rep. Rob Bishop (UT-01), House Committee on Natural Resources Rep. James Comer (KY-01), House Committee on Oversight and Reform Rep. Mike Garcia (CA-25), House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Rep. Steve Chabot (OH-01), House Committee on Small Business Rep. Bob Gibbs (OH-07), House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Rep. Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), House Committee on Ways and Means -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://hice.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6235,McDuffie County Student Receives Hice Headliner Award,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,Jody Hice,H001071,hice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thomson, GA Congressman Jody Hice (GA-10) today announced Thomson-McDuffie Middle School student Reagan Rhodes as the Hice Headliner for the month of November. Diagnosed at age five with Type 1 diabetes, 12-year-old Reagan has made kindness and volunteerism a focus of her young life. Reagan's work to improve opportunities for local students by creating a lending library for her elementary school, reading books to younger children, and championing kindness through anti-bullying campaigns is nothing short of exceptional,said Congressman Hice.Just as admirable is her work to comfort and encourage young patients at the Children's Hospital of Georgia. Through Reagan's Dogs for Diabetes initiative, she has donated 425 stuffed dogs to the Endocrinology Department so that newly diagnosed Type 1 diabetics have a friend' to receive the first shot' as a means to offering comfort to those children. And her volunteer work doesn't stop there. From delivering gifts to teachers, healthcare providers, and seniors in her community to donating food items and clothing to those in need, it is clear that Reagan may be small in stature, but she has a giant and generous heart. Reagan will compete in Orlando next week at the USA National Miss Scholarship Pageant as the Southern Coast Preteen. If you would like to nominate an outstanding member of the community for the Hice Headliner Award, send an email toJessica.Hayes@mail.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chair-bass-secretary-johnson-urge-ag-barr-stop-federal-executions,"CHAIR BASS, SECRETARY JOHNSON URGE AG BARR TO STOP FEDERAL EXECUTIONS",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair Karen Bass (D-CA) and CBC Secretary Hank Johnson (D-GA) sent a letter to Attorney General William Barr urging him to put an immediate stay in the upcoming scheduled federal executions of Orlando Hall (November 19), Lisa Montgomery (December 8), and Brandon Bernard (December 10). ""Spikes in COVID-19 not only endanger the public, they decrease the accessibility of essential services. The ability to effectively see a client, schedule a hearing, or argue a case decreases as our hospitals fill and our leaders are afflicted. To preserve the sanctity of all Americans' constitutional rights, it is imperative that we maintain a climate where men and women who have been sentenced to death have every available legal recourse in the days before their execution. The only way to ensure this is to stay these executions,"" members wrote. To read the full letter, click HERE or read below. Here's what the experts saying: Cassandra Stubbs, director of the ACLU's Capital Punishment Project ""Proceeding with Orlando Hall's execution this week — as the nation, the state of Indiana, and Vigo County all battle unprecedented surges in COVID-19 cases — is indefensible and dangerous. Federal executions require hundreds of people, many of whom travel across the country by plane, to gather in close contact within the Terre Haute prison complex. The Bureau of Prisons' own records show that this summer's executions contributed to spikes in COVID-19 cases within the Terre Haute prison. They reveal that the Bureau of Prisons was not prepared to address or minimize the risk of massive spread of COVID-19 caused by carrying out the executions. The BOP failed to ensure that staff wore masks, failed to promptly isolate individuals who were sick with COVID-19 within the prison, and failed to conduct contact tracing to prevent exposed individuals from passing the illness on to others. The wholly predictable and reprehensible result of these failings was hundreds of COVID-19 infections in people incarcerated within the Terre Haute prison, as well as a demonstrable spike in infections in the surrounding community. ""The stakes are even higher today. As Attorney General Barr plans to execute Orlando Hall on November 19, 2020, Governor Holcomb has imposed new restrictions prohibiting events of 50 or more people in places like Vigo County, where Terre Haute is located, because of the rampant spread of Covid-19 that's been documented there. Two lawyers for Lisa Montgomery, one of the people on death row with a pending execution date, contracted COVID-19 after visiting Mrs. Montgomery in the federal women's prison. Asking spiritual advisors, family members of the victims and defendant, attorneys, journalists, and BOP staff to travel to federal prison with a documented COVID-19 outbreak burdens them with the unfair and unjustifiable choice between protecting their health and their obligations to loved ones or their jobs. This cruel and senseless risk will have consequences far beyond just those who attend and participate in the executions: The public health impact of increased COVID-19 spread extends to everyone incarcerated in the prison, all the staff who work there, the broader Vigo County community, and in the communities where the travelers originate. There is simply no reason these executions should proceed during this pandemic."" Ruth Friedman, Director, Federal Capital Habeas Project ""Orlando Cordia Hall is scheduled to die in the federal death chamber in Terre Haute, Indiana on November 19, two days away. Should the U.S. government carry out his execution, Mr. Hall will be the eighth prisoner executed by federal authorities this year – a number greater than all the executions in the rest of the country combined. While nearly all of the states with capital punishment have halted executions due to the spread of COVID-19, the federal government has singularly pushed forward despite the pandemic. ""The federal death penalty suffers from the same deep-rooted flaws that have been evident in the states now for years. The federal death penalty, as in the states, is concentrated in just a few regions. Texas produces more federal death sentences than any other state. It and two other states (Missouri and Virginia) together account for nearly half of the prisoners on a death row that covers 50 states and several territories. Either all the worst crimes in our country occur in those three states, or there is some problematic reason for that disproportionate use of our system's ultimate sanction."" Vincent M. Southerland: Executive Director, Center on Race, Inequality, and the Law at NYU School of Law ""Racial inequality casts a long, pernicious shadow over America's criminal legal system. At no point is that fact clearer than when it comes to the administration of the death penalty. Orlando Hall's case is a quintessential, tragic example of the myriad ways racism irredeemably corrupts the system and undermines justice. Black people were unlawfully excluded from jury service at his trial by the trial prosecutors. One of those prosecutors began his career in an office where such practices were policy and repeatedly engaged in racial discrimination in jury selection in capital cases, as detailed by the United States Supreme Court and a federal appeals court. Compounding that injustice, Mr. Hall's trial, conviction, and death sentence were the product of a system that, at every step of the way, is steeped in racial inequality. In Texas federal cases, Black people, when compared to their non-Black counterparts, are six times more likely to have prosecutors request permission from the Department of Justice to seek the death penalty, almost eight times more likely to have that permission granted, and 16 times more likely to be sentenced to death. ""The racism that permeated Mr. Hall's case offends our Constitution and our legal system as a whole. It is intolerable and proceeding with his execution under such circumstances is a grave injustice that diminishes us all."" Chairwoman Bass and Secretary Johnson's letter to AG Barr November 17, 2020 The Honorable William Barr Attorney General U.S. Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20530-001 Dear Attorney General Barr, We write to urge an immediate stay in the upcoming scheduled federal executions of Orlando Hall (November 19), Lisa Montgomery (December 8), and Brandon Bernard (December 10). Our nation is weathering a pandemic that has brought it to its knees—one that is projected to worsen in the coming weeks. This will make any scheduled execution a tinderbox for further outbreaks and exacerbate concerns over the possibility of miscarriage of justice. Spikes in COVID-19 not only endanger the public, they decrease the accessibility of essential services. The ability to effectively see a client, schedule a hearing, or argue a case decreases as our hospitals fill and our leaders are afflicted. To preserve the sanctity of all Americans' constitutional rights, it is imperative that we maintain a climate where men and women who have been sentenced to death have every available legal recourse in the days before their execution. The only way to ensure this is to stay these executions. Your agency's persistence in carrying out these executions is an unnecessary health risk that cannot be overstated. Executions like that of Orlando Hall—scheduled for this Thursday—risk the health of thousands, including Bureau of Prison (""BOP"") employees, contractors, attorneys, medical personnel, spiritual advisers, and family members. They also often require interstate travel among those slated to attend, further exacerbating the spread of the virus. On July 14, 16 and 17 of this year, Daniel Lewis Lee, Wesley Purkey and Dustin Honken, respectively, were executed at FCC Terre Haute, a facility in Indiana with known cases of COVID-19. In the weeks following these executions, the county where the prison is located experienced a surge of confirmed COVID-19 cases. Despite this, Lezmond Mitchell and Keith Nelson were executed on August 26 and 28, respectively, at the same facility, and then William LeCroy on September 22 and Christopher Vialva on September 24.[1] As of September 15, three inmates had died from COVID-19. These examples indicate a causal link between executions and COVID-19 surges; therefore, the upcoming scheduled executions must be stayed. These COVID-19 infections associated with executions were predictable, foreseeable, and present an unnecessary risk to innocent life. Prison executions themselves carry with them the inherent risk of being the site of a super-spreader event, given the significant limitations surrounding social distancing. When combined with the hundreds of persons required to carry out an execution, the risks are even further amplified. Despite this, Department of Justice has chosen to continue carrying out these executions, further denying constitutional rights to prisoners while endangering the lives of those around them. These unprecedented risks and challenges have caused direct exposure and illness to legal teams especially. Out of real concern for their health and safety, Daniel Lewis Lee's attorneys had to miss his July 14 execution entirely and Dustin Honkin was denied his right to spiritual counsel at his September 17 execution as a result of the pandemic. Lisa Montgomery is scheduled to be executed on December 8 and is at risk of being without counsel at that time, as her attorneys recently contracted COVID-19 during their visits to her at Federal Medical Center in Carswell, Texas. Currently, the state of Texas has the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the nation. Her lawyers are too sick to meet the deadline for her clemency petition set for this Sunday. The Department of Justice denied their request for an extension, despite their battle with this deadly virus. Continuing to execute federal death row inmates during a time when nearly every state in the nation has postponed executions due to significant public health concerns stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic is reckless and immoral. Our agencies should be focused on protecting and saving American lives, not causing senseless and unnecessary risk to innocent persons charged with carrying out federal executions. Hundreds of thousands of our fellow citizens have lost loved ones to this deadly pandemic. By stopping these executions, you and your agency can prevent more unnecessary deaths. We reiterate our commitment to the suspension of all federal executions at this time, ask for you to prioritize federal employee lives and stay all pending federal executions, and request a response to this letter within 15 calendar days from its receipt. Sincerely, Karen Bass, Chair, Congressional Black Caucus Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr., Secretary, Congressional Black Caucus ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://www.perdue.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-david-perdue-on-third-annual-department-of-defense-audit,Senator David Perdue On Third Annual Department Of Defense Audit,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,David Perdue,P000612,www.perdue.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Meet David Connect Helping You News",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/district-connection-111620,District Connection - 11/16/20,2020-11-16,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"EFFORTS CONTINUE TO DEVELOP AND DEPLOY COVID-19 COUNTERMEASURES The COVID-19 pandemic is first and foremost a public health crisis, and some of the most critical efforts to combatting this virus have centered on developing countermeasures, such as diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. There are several vaccine candidates in the process of clinical trials, and I know many of you may have seen Pfizer's recent announcement, which says its vaccine candidate has demonstrated a 90 percent efficacy rate based on results from its Phase 3 trial. As you may recall, earlier this summer the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced an agreement, as part of itsOperation Warp Speed, that would provide for the production and delivery of 100 million doses of this COVID-19 vaccine, with the ability to acquire 500 million additional doses, if it is proven safe and effective. Additionally, just this morning, Moderna announcedequally encouraging data from its Phase 3 trial, indicating a vaccine efficacy of 94 percent.These results are undeniably encouraging, but those trials are ongoing. Any vaccine candidate will still need to demonstrate set standards of efficacy and safety, as well as receive regulatory approval from the FDA, before wider distribution. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last week issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for a new therapeutic treatment that has shown evidence to reduce hospitalization and emergency visits for COVID-19 positive patients at increased risk of severe illness from the virus. And last month, the FDA approved its first treatment, remdesivir, for use in health care settings for adults and children 12 and older who require hospitalization from COVID-19. The federal government will continue to play a critical role in advancing vaccines and treatments to fight COVID-19, and as these efforts continue, we must continue to do our part and follow public health recommendations. The health of our communities and our further economic recovery is dependent on it. KEEPING AMERICAN FAMILIES UNITED You would be hard-pressed to find someone who would tell you our immigration system is working as intended. In fact, it is more common to find someone to tell you how the onerous process had failed them by way of delays, misfiled paperwork, and more. The issues plaguing our immigration procedures have real consequences for families throughout the United States. One issue specifically was brought to my attention earlier this Congress by our neighbors representing American Families United. For those who fall in love, marry, and raise a family with a spouse who turns out to be undocumented, there is no path for those families to get right by the law. Rather, our laws unintentionally encourage those individuals to remain in hiding or else risk being separated from their families for three years, five years, or permanently as they are barred from ever returning to the U.S. While upholding our national security and safety of our citizens makes it necessary to keep some individuals from reentering the country, surely it was never intended to prevent American citizens from living in peace with their spouse. After working for over a year with Representative Veronica Escobar (D-TX), we were able to introduce H.R. 8708, the American Families United Act. For those cases that do not deal with security issues for the United States, this bill will enable immigration judges to use their discretion on a case-by-case basis to keep American citizens and their families together. Families belong together, and I believe the American Families United Act serves that mission. I am proud of the strong product we have put together and hope this bill will be taken up in the coming months. ALL VETERANS AND GOLD STAR FAMILIES GRANTED FREE ENTRANCE TO NATIONAL PARKS Many of you know that last Wednesday was Veterans Day a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration of the honorable sacrifices that our nation's veterans have made to protect our country. We certainly owe our servicemembers a tremendous debt of gratitude, which is why I was pleased to learn that U.S. Secretary of the Interior Bernhardtrecently issued an order granting all Gold Star Families and military veterans free entrance to our national parks, refuges, and other public lands. A similar program is already offered to active duty military and their dependents, but expanding this benefit to Gold Star Families and veterans is truly symbolic of our lasting appreciation of their sacrifices. To benefit from the program, Gold Star Families or veterans simply need to present qualifying identification, such as a Military ID or a Driver's License with a veterans designation, providing access to the roughly 2,000 public locations spanning 400 million acres of land managed by the Department of the Interior, the National Forest Service, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It is only fitting that all of our nation's servicemembers, both past and present, should have free access to some of the very lands they strived to protect and defend. CONSTITUENT SPOTLIGHT: PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 In the early months of the COVID-19 public health emergency, there was much that we didn't know about the respiratory contagion that has since spurred an ongoing global health crisis. But as the days and months have gone on, the important role that face masks play in preventing the spread of COVID-19 has become increasingly clear. Here is what some of you have had so say about the subject: Mariah from Lawrenceville: I am writing you this letter concerning the use of masks due to the life-threatening pandemic that is occurring. The lack of mask usage should not be taken lightly because the lives of our fellow citizens are being jeopardized. I understand that social distancing can be a little difficult in public, especially with many people around, butmasks can prevent further spread of COVID. Susan from Suwanee: Mr. Woodall, it's time to let our kids, teenagers and young adults go back to normal. They have sacrificed enough for this virus. For those that interact with young people as part of their job or living situation, wear a mask. I am sad for all that our kids have lost. ______________________________________________________________________________ As you may recall, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) first implemented its mask guidance on April 3 of this year. Since then, the scientific community has found overwhelming evidence that properly worn masks help prevent the droplets carrying the COVID-19 virus from spreading person-to-person. As CDC Director Robert Redfield told lawmakers when testifying on Capitol Hill this fall, face coverings are the most important, powerful public health tool we have. In fact, as our scientific researchers continue their efforts to accelerate the development of a COVID-19 vaccine that is proven to be safe and effective, the use of face masks, social distancing protocols, and other public health measures have enabled businesses to reopen, children return to school, and our nation get back to work. As Susan said, the economic and mental toll levied on workers and families because of COVID-19 has been undeniable. But it cannot be said enough: our economic bounce back and return to normalcy is inextricably linked to our ability to control the public health threat posed by COVID-19. We will not have one without the other. As the winter months approach, and with people spending more time indoors in close proximity to others, we simply cannot afford to see a surge in new cases. To ensure compliance with the CDC's mask wearing guidance, some have suggested that the federal government pass a nationwide mask policy. While I think the sentiment beyond such calls to protect our friends and neighbors is universally shared, it remains the case that these policies should be state and locally implemented. Any policy is only as strong as its enforcement, and while our federal leaders should continue to let science be our guide when setting best practices, it is our states and localities that are ultimately tasked with enforcing any such policy. Of course, the importance of following public health protocols should be a message that is communicated at all levels of government. But as in many areas of public policy, our states and localities are the ones best equipped to assess their needs and determine how to specifically implement policies to best address them. To Mariah's concern, the good news is an increasing number of Americans are opting to wear masks. But with many states continuing to see increases in the number of confirmed cases, we must ensure we are continually adhering to these public health guidelines. Masks will continue to play a pivotal role in reducing transmission of this virus; let's continue to do our part to protect our friends and neighbors, particularly those with underlying health conditions who are most vulnerable. GWINNETT COUNTY SCHOOLS AND TEACHERS CONTINUE TO DEMONSTRATE EXCELLENCE Here in the Seventh District, we are home to some of the most outstanding schools in the state, and even with the challenges posed by COVID-19, our students continue to demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence. That's why this week, I would like to recognize Gwinnett County Public Schools for its success at increasing its student graduation rate, with 83.23% of students graduating from high school within 4 years. As we all know, this increased graduation rate would not have been possible without the hard work of our teachers in ensuring students in the classroom are receiving a quality education. As you may recall from my previous newsletter, Gwinnett County Public Schools earlier this fall named its 139 Teachers of the Year for each public school in the county. Now, 6 finalists have been selected out of 25 semifinalists. This year's finalists include: Lena Alonso from Lilburn Elementary, Katie Blum from Sugar Hill Elementary; Kelley Donovan from Coleman Middle School, Julianne Purnell from Five Forks Middle School; Philip Peavy from Paul Duke STEM High School; and Danielle Swaby from South Gwinnett High. The overall district winner is expected to be announced on December 10th. I surely don't envy the Selection Committee in making its final decision, and as we await word on this year's winner, I know we are all grateful for the hard work of all of our teachers during this time. These educators have worked tirelessly to adapt learning models to continue to provide instruction both in-person and virtually (and oftentimes both at the same time). Thank you for all that you do. FORSYTH COUNTY COMMUNITY HONORS SERVICEMEMBERS AND VETERANS As I discussed earlier, last week we observed Veterans Day to remember the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served to defend our country. Our military's heroic efforts have preserved our freedoms. It gives me such pride to see our community give back in honor of their service and to share examples of those acts of generosity with you. In Cumming, Dental Smiles collected 450 pounds of candy during their annual Halloween Candy Buyback by encouraging trick-or-treaters to donate some of their Halloween haul to Operation ShoeBox a nonprofit that sends Christmas care packages to troops serving overseas. And that's not the only business trying to ignite the Christmas spirit for our servicemembers. Another Forsyth business, Music Authority, is working with volunteers to create giftboxes through the Any Soldier program, gifting essential hygiene items to soldiers overseas along with handwritten notes to cheer on our military heroes. And while these and other businesses across our community have demonstrated a generous show of support for our active duty military overseas, our district has also come together to thank our local veterans by installing a new flagpole and monument in the Vickery Lake community. These acts of kindness are undeniably important during this time, and I would like to thank everyone who made this Veterans Day one of hope and celebration. And on behalf of our District, I would like to again thank our veterans and troops for their service and sacrifice. We celebrate that today, but may we remember it always. SEVENTH DISTRICT KICKS OFF THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH A CHARITABLE SPIRIT With the holidays just around the corner, our community has been gearing up to make this holiday season that much more special for children and families in need. That's why I would like to highlight the efforts of Forsyth County Fire Department (FCFD) and The Place of Forsyth for their work to give our community a little extra holiday spirit. FCFD has kicked off its annual Aerial's House toy collection drive, and they are asking for new, unwrapped gift donations for children of all ages to be dropped off at their contactless donation bins at the Forsyth County Fire Station or the Fire Department Headquarters from November 9th through December 11th, or in the lobby of the Forsyth County Administration Building in December. The toys will be distributed with the help of the extraordinary folks at The Place of Forsyth, a nonprofit that has truly strengthened our community with their dedicated service, especially during this challenging year. In fact, The Place hopes to continue supporting members of our community in need by preparing its Holiday Assistance Program, including Thanksgiving meal kits for over 500 families who are in need. With these efforts to give to those in need additional support, the Forsyth County Fire Department and The Place of Forsyth have truly gone above and beyond to bring joy to our community this holiday season. Thank you to all of you who have already donated to assist our neighbors. Your acts of generosity and the enthusiasm in which you give back to our community are part of what makes our district so special. THE WEEK AHEAD Last week, Members-elect to the 117th Congress descended upon Washington, D.C. to begin new Member orientation sessions. Orientation will continue this week in addition to a number of organizational meetings for the Republican and Democrat conferences. That leaves us with a light load legislatively as we consider a number of bills under suspension of the rules and one bill under a rule, H.R. 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020. While the 80-year-old National Apprenticeship Act is in dire need of modernization, H.R. 8294 falls short of providing meaningful reform to empower employers and others to pursue work-based learning innovation. Although Democrats on the House Committee on Education and Labor rejected the Republican alternative offered by Representative Lloyd Smucker (R-PA) which would truly bring the National Apprenticeship Act into the 21st century, I am hopeful the House will have a second chance to consider this option as an amendment on the House floor. Sincerely, Rob Woodall Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.perdue.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-perdue-loeffler-introduce-safe-votes-act,"Senators Perdue, Loeffler Introduce SAFE Votes Act",2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,David Perdue,P000612,www.perdue.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Meet David Connect Helping You News",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.perdue.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-david-perdue-honors-georgias-veterans-2020,Senator David Perdue Honors Georgia’s Veterans,2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,David Perdue,P000612,www.perdue.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Meet David Connect Helping You News",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.perdue.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-david-perdue-on-protecting-senate-majority,Senator David Perdue On Protecting Senate Majority,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,David Perdue,P000612,www.perdue.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Meet David Connect Helping You News",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.perdue.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-david-perdue-takes-action-to-ensure-fair-elections,Senator David Perdue Takes Action To Ensure Fair Elections,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,GA,David Perdue,P000612,www.perdue.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Meet David Connect Helping You News",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/district-connection-11920,District Connection - 11/9/20,2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"2020 GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS Last week's record-shattering voter turnout across our great nation so much so that the vote count, primarily due to mail-in and absentee ballots has meant vote counting continues. While I know many were hoping to know all the final results by late Tuesday night, the increased use of absentee and mail-in ballots meant that just wasn't possible. We must ensure every vote that was legitimately cast is counted, and I am grateful for the state and local officials who have continued their thorough and diligent efforts to make sure the voices of the American people are heard. While it is likely that the close nature of these elections in many states, including our own, may mean these results will face legal challenges, there are at least two takeaways we know that are clear. First, absentee and mail-in ballots are likely to only grow in the future. Ensuring the confidence of the American people in these votes is vital to our democracy, and thus all allegations of impropriety must be investigated. There is no higher electoral priority than ensuring confidence in our system of voting. Second, we know that here in Georgia we will prepare to return to the polls on January 5th for a runoff election. All of America will be watching, and outside groups from across the nationand perhaps the worldwill be trying to influence our vote. I confess that I am comforted that the balance of power in Washington comes down to the vote of Georgia and Georgians. There is no group of voters that I trust more. JOBS REPORT SHOWS CONTINUED DECREASES IN UNEMPLOYMENT RATE, JOBS ADDED Last Friday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its most recentjobs report for the month of October. Coming on the heels of the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis's report from last week that indicated real GDP increased by an annual rate of 33.1 percent in the third quarter, the latest jobs report continues to spell out good news for a further economic return. In October, the unemployment rate dropped one percentage point nationally, down to 6.9 percent from 7.9 percent. With the addition of 638,000 jobs last month exceeding economists' previous predictions the most considerable gains were seen in leisure and hospitality, professional and business services, retail trade, and construction. These latest numbers mean that roughly 55 percent of the jobs lost due to the COVID-19 crisis have since returned. The momentum is there for a strong economic return, but as much of our nation continues to grapple with increased cases of COVID-19, we cannot ease up. As we approach the holidays, the potential for increased rates of spread is undeniably present, and we must protect our family, friends, and neighbors by following social distancing guidelines and public health protocols. TRUMP ADMINISTRATION ISSUES FINAL RULE ON HEALTH CARE PRICE TRANSPARENCY After announcing its proposed rule to enact price transparency requirements to increase competition and lower health care costs last year, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued its final rule late last month. Under this finalized rule, group health plans and health insurance issuers in the individual and group markets will be required to provide clear and easily accessible information about standard charges for the services they provide so that patients can better understand the casts of their care. This includes the costs of specific doctors, procedures, and prescription drugs, as well as the most accurate estimated out-of-pocket costs a patient could be responsible for. With increased awareness of the true costs of care, patients will have a better ability to shop and compare costs before receiving care, promoting competition between providers to offer the best price. Injecting transparency across our health care systems is just one of the tools at our disposal that may serve to address the high costs of health care in areas where multiple options for care exist, and while this rule is facing legal challenges in the courts, I hope that we can continue to work toward solutions that encourage choice and spur competition, driving down costs in the long run. CONSTITUENT SPOTLIGHT: REBUILDING AMERICA'S INFRASTRUCTURE Transportation and infrastructure development are issues that are important to folks on all ends of the political spectrum. As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I know just how critical it is to provide proper oversight and reauthorization to all that connects us in our community. Here is what some of you who've written to me about the topic have had to say: Adam from Suwanee: Infrastructure matters to me. Poor infrastructure is costing every family in the U.S. $9 every day and those costs will keep climbing without action. Congress needs to pass the Water Resources Development Act. Mark from Norcross: Ignoring the needs of America's aging and over-burdened infrastructure is not an option. If our nation is to remain prosperous, we must transform our infrastructure systems. As your voting constituent and a member of the construction industry, I understand firsthand the need for a significant, long-term infrastructure investment bill. ______________________________________________________________________________ As we head into the House's biennial lame duck session, my colleagues and I have a unique opportunity to advance bipartisan legislation, free from some of the political divisiveness which can permeate an election season. On the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I have witnessed firsthand how across-the-aisle cooperation has produced meaningful infrastructure development bills. As Adam and Mark rightly said, strong, bipartisan infrastructure legislation will benefit the day-to-day lives and financial wellbeing of every American family. Currently, there are a number of the Committee's transportation and infrastructure bills which I hope to see move forward during the remainder of this legislative session. First, I am hopeful the Senate will take up and pass H.R. 7575 the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 (WRDA). This year's version of WRDA, which passed the House in July, provides critical funding to rebuild our nation's ports, harbors, and inland waterwayspoints of entry where nearly 80% of the goods we consume enter our country. WRDA also authorizes projects to prevent flood and storm damage, an increasingly dangerous problem which we must combat in order to protect the health and safety of our communities. The numerous water infrastructure projects authorized under WRDA will help to create numerous well-paying jobs across the country. Several of my colleagues also recently introduced an important piece of bipartisan aircraft safety legislation, H.R. 8408 the Aircraft Certification Reform and Accountability Act. Aircraft safety is critical to the well-being of air travelers and our nation's confidence in flying, and this bipartisan act, based on guidance from nonpartisan aircraft safety experts, will enact modernized Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversight, ensuring the highest standards of aviation safety. In a similar vein, my colleagues in the House negotiated and passed H.R. 3409 the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2019. Aside from reauthorizing the Coast Guard for FY20-FY21 and addressing personnel issues, the bill sets important boating and shipping safety policies, ensuring the safety of workers and recreational boaters alike. And while I was pleased to see a clean, yearlong surface transportation reauthorization included in the continuing resolution signed by the president back in September, I am hopeful House Democratic leadership will reconsider its partisan approach to pipeline safety reauthorization and take up the Senate's comprehensive and bipartisan measure that passed the chamber in August. As the 116th Congress comes to a close, I look forward to building on bipartisan infrastructure progress made on both sides of the Capitol and get this meaningful legislation across the finish line. HONORING THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED THIS VETERANS DAY This Wednesday, our nation comes together to honor each and every veteran who has risked their life to protect and defend the freedoms we are privileged to enjoy in this country. In my years in public office, I have found that our veterans represent the very best our Seventh District community has to offer. They are teachers, first responders, public servants, and business leaders. They are mothers, fathers, mentors and neighbors, and some of our most trusted friends. Even after their military service is complete, veterans are looked to by the American people for unity and strength. I am always humbledbut never surprisedto find our veterans continuing to give back to our community and country in so many incredible ways. While many Veterans Day celebrations and events were held this past weekend, Gwinnett and Forsyth Counties will each be holding events this Wednesday saluting our nation's heroes. Gwinnett County will begin its virtual Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11th at 11 AM, and the American Legion Cumming Post 307, in conjunction with the City of Cumming and our community's other veterans organization, will also begin its ceremony at the same time at the Cumming Veterans War Memorial. Attendance is free and open to the public, and guests are encouraged to wear masks and socially distance during the event. On behalf of a grateful nation, I want to extend my appreciation to all the veterans and their families across our community for their service to our country. While we honor that sacrifice today, may we remember it always. CELEBRATING DIWALI: THE HINDU FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS This Saturday, Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and those of other faiths across the world will celebrate the annual festival of Diwali the five-day celebration of the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Last year, I had the honor of celebrating Diwali at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Lilburn, a truly unforgettable experience celebrated with so many good friends. While Diwali celebrations may look different this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 health emergency, the importance and symbolism of this festival is as important as ever. We are truly blessed to have such a vibrant and diverse community here in the Seventh District, and I want to extend my best wishes for a happy Diwali to all those observing this special time in our community. LOCAL TRAVEL NURSES CRUCIAL TO COMBATTING COVID-19 IN HIGH RISK AREAS As we face a potential surge in new cases of COVID-19 during the winter months, we continue to rely on our health care heroes to combat the virus on the frontlines. That's why this week I would like to commend a local group of nurses who have dedicated weeks and sometimes months on end away from their homes to travel to high-risk areas in need of nurses to treat those infected by COVID-19. In fact, more than 450 nurses working for Premier Healthcare Professionals in Cumming have gone to the frontlines in places with critical nursing shortages, including places as far away as New York City and Texas. These travel nurses have gone above and beyond to meet a critical need for nurses in places with both a history of nurse shortages and a high rate of COVID-19 infections, doing their part to protect all of us during this critical juncture in our history. I would like to thank the nurses from Premier Healthcare Professionals as well as everyone who has pitched in to fight COVID-19 on the frontlines. Your efforts throughout the year have certainly not gone unnoticed, and your hard work is invaluable to the many patients you have cared for. Thank you, once again, for your service during a time when it is most needed. FORSYTH COUNTY COMBATS DRUG ABUSE WITH NEW MONTHLY TAKE BACK DAY INITIATIVE It is remarkable to consider the outstanding health benefits that modern medications can have in treating various diseases, improving the lives of countless patients when they take their treatments and prescription medications safely and as directed. However, there is a global and national health and safety concern revolving around the misuse and abuse of prescription medications. That's why I am pleased to share an example of the good work that is being undertaken locally to combat the opioid epidemic. Forsyth County has registered three drop off boxes in Cumming, offering people a safe, reliable way to properly dispose of their prescription medications. In fact, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners partnered with the Drug Awareness Council, the Youth Council, and the Sheriff's Office to launch the Take Back Day initiative, dedicating the third Saturday of every month to encourage anyone with unused medications to dispose of their prescriptions at one of the drop off locations in Cumming. You can now drop off your unused medications on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the North and South Precincts in Cumming, or in the county jail lobby 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In doing so, you can become a part of the solution to combat the growing issue of medication misuse and addiction in our community. I would like to commend the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners, as well as the Forsyth County Drug Awareness Council, Youth Council and Sheriff's Office for bring drug misuse awareness to our community as well as providing a way for everyone to take part in the responsible use and disposal of prescription medications. Sincerely, Rob Woodall Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399455,Scott Issues Statement Seeking Chairmanship of House Committee on Agriculture,2020-11-05,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,GA,David Scott,S001157,davidscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman David Scott, senior Member of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture issued the following statement announcing he is seeking the Chairmanship of the Committee. Congressman Scott is chairman of the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Commodity Exchanges, Energy, and Credit. ""I am proud to announce that I am seeking the Chairmanship of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture. Today our nation faces perhaps the most significant struggles any of us have seen in our lifetime. Across rural and urban communities and from young to old, the threats posed by global illness, hunger, financial insecurity, climate change, and natural disasters are significant. As our nation's legislative body, it is the duty of Congress to address, through this Committee, the insecurities plaguing our citizens and provide the means for a more fruitful existence. ""I was born on a farm in rural South Carolina during segregation. After my parents moved north to find work, I spent my childhood years living and working on my grandparents' farm. The core lessons I brought from these experiences still resonate throughout farming communities today, and I have drawn upon them as I have fought to support the needs of rural and urban America. But, our farm systems have evolved and our policies must reflect and urge forward these changes. And I believe that the progress of our nation cannot be true progress if it leaves behind the most vulnerable among us. Since my election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2002, I have served continuously as an active member of the Agriculture Committee, representing a state whose leading industry is agriculture. I have fought hard to elevate the needs of our vulnerable communities, ensure a stable and skilled farm workforce, and invest in programs that will serve to strengthen our agriculture industry for future generations. ""However, the work of our Agriculture Committee in many ways reflects the most basic needs of our nation--food, nutrition, and financial resources--but also mirrors the greater movements of our time. And, amid a global pandemic, many fault lines already present in rural America have deepened. Even during years of growth, rural economies have lagged behind urban development, and the only pathway to prosperity for many of our young people drew them to seek opportunities beyond the borders of their rural towns. And now, the heavy weight of the virus has fallen on these struggling communities, as access to reliable broadband, education, childcare, and medicine are just out of reach. Rebuilding our economy must be inclusive and equitable, incorporating job growth and revitalization to strengthen our nation as a whole. ""As our nation grapples with a racial reckoning, we must ensure that racial justice and economic equality is brought forth in our farming industry. With the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, I was proud to secure $80 million in funding for a new scholarship program that provides educational opportunities to 1890s students and will ensure a highly-skilled food and agricultural systems workforce to the ranks alongside this generation's leaders. Building on this progress through supportive financing and opportunities for young and beginning farmers, as well as farmers of color, can strengthen our foothold toward a more equitable agricultural America. If elected, I would approach my role as the first African American to chair the Agriculture Committee, and the first African American from Georgia to chair any Committee, with a principled focus on addressing inequities in Agriculture and advancing racial progress for all. ""With each wildfire, hurricane, or flood more devastating than the last, it is incumbent upon us to ensure food security for future generations. The threat of climate change is a present and growing danger, and we must promote sustainable agriculture solutions that are economically viable, ecologically just, and support the social fabric of our rural communities. Transitioning away from fossil fuels toward ethanol and biofuels can create jobs and foster economic opportunities in our rural communities. And as trade wars and the global pandemic have fractured our supply chains, small and mid-size farmers can partner with local organizations to open new markets and provide fresh produce at fair prices. ""Economic pressures, lost wages, and financial insecurity have brought hunger to the kitchen tables of Americans in nearly every city and state across our nation. While millions of Americans are one financial setback a cut in their hours or an emergency room visit away from food insecurity, it is the duty of Congress to set forth programs that provide a safety net for our most vulnerable citizens. Food and nutrition programs like SNAP, the National School Lunch Program, and WIC ensure infants and mothers get the nutrients they need, children eat a healthy lunch at school, and parents can put food on the table every night. We are among the most wealthy countries on this planet and it is imperative that we use our resources to ensure all Americans can meet their most basic needs so they can rise up, fulfill their American dream, and make this great nation better for the next generation. ""The challenges before us go beyond simply fixing the mistakes of past administrations. The lessons of the past can inform our growth as we respond to the demands of the future. Each hearing, markup, and legislative action must take a step forward toward building a more equitable, dynamic, and resilient agriculture industry that lays forth a new path for future generations. I have cultivated years of expertise and strong partnerships throughout my years of work on these issues, and I believe that I am well suited to take on these challenges. I humbly ask for your support and faith in me to fully utilize the strength of this Committee in the new Congress as we confront this new frontier with strength and perseverance.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/blog-posts/washington-dc-tour-update-november-2020,WASHINGTON D.C. TOUR UPDATE - December 2020,2020-11-02,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"As you may know, several popular tourist sites continue to be closed to the public due to concerns about COVID-19. Although these sites have temporarily closed their doors to the public, many of these destinations can now be explored through virtual tours and other online educational opportunities. Please see below for more information. WHITE HOUSE The White House will be open for tours on Fridays and Saturdays between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM with limited visitor capacity. As such, tour slots are rapidly being filled. Bookings must be submitted within three months before a prospective tour date and no sooner than 21 days beforehand. You can access virtual tours of the White House at https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-white-house. U.S. CAPITOL The House and Senate Sergeants at Arms have ordered limited access to the Capitol Complex. All tours of the Capitol Building have been cancelled through November 30, 2020. We do not know at this time whether the suspension of Capitol tours will extend beyond that date. We will post more information online when that is available. Although the U.S. Capitol Building is currently closed to the public, you can still explore the Capitol virtually at https://www.capitol.gov/#. BUREAU OF ENGRAVING AND PRINTING The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is closed to the public until further notice. To learn more about BEP, please visit their website at http://www.bep.treas.gov/about.html. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS The Library of Congress buildings and facilities will be closed to the public until further notice. Additionally, all Library-sponsored public programs are postponed or cancelled until further notice. Please note, the Library of Congress is now offering virtual tours at https://www.loc.gov/visit/tours/online-tours/. You can also explore their online exhibits at https://www.loc.gov/exhibits/. SUPREME COURT The Supreme Court is closed to the public until further notice. You can access a virtual tour of the Supreme Court at https://www.oyez.org/tour. OTHER TOUR INFORMATION Information about the operating status of other D.C. tourist destinations (National Archives, Smithsonian Institution, National Park Service monuments, Arlington National Cemetery, etc.) can be found on the individual webpages of those institutions. If you have any questions regarding these closures, please do not hesitate to reach out to my staff at 202-225-4272.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/district-connection-11220,District Connection - 11/2/20,2020-11-02,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"ELECTION DAY 2020 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD Since 1845, the first Tuesday following the first Monday of November has historically marked Election Day in the United States, and tomorrow officially marks that time for the 2020 elections. Statewide, roughly 3.9 million Georgians have already cast their ballots, up from 2.3 million compared to this point in 2016 a truly historic turnout. I know many folks have a close eye on the presidential race, but the upcoming elections are also critical to deciding our leaders at not only the federal level, but at the state and local level as well. This year is especially unique for those of us in the Seventh Congressional District, as we choose to elect not only both of our Georgia senators, but also a new U.S. House Representative. As I said before, voting is essential to participating in our democracy and making your voice heard. No matter how you choose to cast your ballot, I hope you will choose to exercise this right and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Early voting in Georgia ended last Friday, and for more information about voting in-person on Election Day tomorrow, visit Georgia's My Voter Page to verify your registration status, find your polling location, and preview what's on the ballot. Remember to bring a valid state or federal government issued photo ID, and get in line before 7:00 PM when the polls close. Additionally, for those who have not yet returned your absentee ballots, please know that they must be postmarked and returned to your elections office by mail or delivered in person or at avalid drop box location by no later than 7:00 PM on November 3rd. I encourage you to ensure its delivery as soon as possible. For additional questions, please contact theGwinnett CountyorForsyth CountyElections office. RECORD GDP GROWTH SHOWS STRENGTH OF U.S. ECONOMY Last week, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis released its latest data on the U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the third quarter, showing a record 7.4 percent increase from the previous quarter and a historic 33.1 percent annualized pace. These figures show a recovery of two-thirds of our economic output since shutdown began. While this still puts the economy 3.5 percent smaller than at the end of last year, what it does demonstrate is that even with limited businesses reopening throughout the country, there is still enormous potential for us to rebound once restrictions are lifted. This fact was further demonstrated by the U.S. Department of Labor report showing jobless claims are down by 40,000 from the previous week, bringing the total number to 751,000 a total we haven't seen since mid-March when the shutdownbegan. This too is good news, even with the understanding that the hardest hit industries are not yet operating at full capacity. These latest reports show that our economy is ready to spring back into action, but with COVID-19 infection rates increasing throughout the country, it is likely that further economic growth will be stymied. That is why it is important for Congress to do its work and support our nation's industries as we enter the winter months where many economists expect a contraction in the economy. Our country has waited too long for Speaker Pelosi to reach a compromise with the White House to provide relief to businesses and the American people. I remain hopeful that before the end of this Congress, I will be able to cast my vote in favor of a solution to help our nation weather the pandemic as we work to defeat the virus. SUPPORTING HOME AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES PROVIDERS As we have all seen, the COVID-19 public health emergency has not impacted businesses and services in the same way. While some have been able to resume operations relatively quickly and adapt their business models to align with public health protocols, it remains a challenge for many others. This includes Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) providers, whose programming offers opportunities for qualified Medicaid beneficiaries to receive services in their own home or community rather than in institutional or other isolated settings. HCBS providers deliver a wide range of services ranging from personal care, educational, and support services to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, mental illness, and older adults. However, these providers' community-based approach to care often means that these services must be provided in person. And while HCBS providers have continued to look for creative ways to continue to provide services, many are still unable to provide routine services because they lack the infrastructure to operate virtually or remotely. Without continued support, HCBS provider networks across the country remain at risk of collapse, and permanent closure could greatly impede individuals from receiving services in the future. That is why I led a letter, joined by Representatives Kathleen Rice (D-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI), asking that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) continue to allow state agencies administering certain HCBS programming, who have received approval and elect to do so, to issue retainer payments to providers when routine services cannot be delivered. These payments cannot exceed payments for similar services, and funding from any additional sources cannot be used for the same purpose. This action is centered on the need to give states the flexibility to assess the continued public health threat in their area and determine what is best for them, removing federal time constraints that limit how long these payments can be utilized. Of course, we all want providers to be furnishing these services when possible. But if states make the determination that this relief option is necessary to keep their provider networks intact, federal rules should not stand in the way. If these providers close for good or more folks that normally receive HCBS services as a result of these closures are diverted to institutional care, this could increase costs in the long run. I hope CMS will act swiftly on our call-to-action to enact this flexibility. CONSTITUENT SPOTLIGHT: MUST-ADDRESS PRIORITIES IN THE 116th CONGRESS While on the eve of the 2020 elections that will determine representation across all levels of government, it's also true that the work of the 116th Congress is far from over. Apart from a final deal that remains to be reached on the next COVID-19 relief package, there are several must-pass items on the agenda for the remainder of this legislative session. Here are a few of the messages I have received about what lies ahead. Donald from Duluth: Dear Rob, please approve additional PUA. Hopefully the job market will improve, but that is not the current reality. Additional assistance is badly needed and critical right now. Georgians face dire consequences without additional support right now. Please vote to approve additional assistance during this crisis. Thank you in advance for your understanding! Gary from Buford: When Congress returns after the election and begins to craft omnibus spending bills that fund the federal government, it is essential that you begin to cut wasteful spending to prevent a major economic disaster. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ While I have continued to join my colleagues in urging Speaker Pelosi to move forward standalone relief bills in the absence of a wider relief bill, it's not the only priority that demands our immediate attention. As you may know, there are several significant funding authorizations that have expired or will expire soon that Congress must address before the end of the year. Of most pressing concern is the need to pass appropriations bills to fund the government for Fiscal Year 2021. While in September Congress passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) extending current funding levels, that CR only runs through December 11th. Among those programs that need to be reauthorized by December 11th include the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and the Child Care Entitlement to States, as well as a series of health care provisions, including authorizations for the mandatory Community Health Center Fund, the National Health Services Corps, and the Special Diabetes Program. Additionally, there are several programs and tax provisions that will expire if not reauthorized by the end of the year. As Donald mentioned, this includes the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program which provides up to 13 weeks of additional unemployment benefits and expanded UI benefits for individuals (self-employed, independent contractors, gig economy workers) not traditionally eligible. In addition, roughly 33 energy, business, and individual tax provisions and many COVID-19 tax relief provisions will expire after December 31st. Further, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which provides authorization of and establishes priorities for defense-related activities at the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy remains on the agenda. Each year for 59 years, Congress has passed a bipartisan NDAA, and House and Senate leaders must continue their work to negotiate a finalized product. Even as we approach a lame-duck session the period of time Congress finds itself in after the November elections and before the start of the new Congress in January a wait-and-see approach only hurts us in the long run. It is particularly important we work to reach a consensus on these priorities and provide greater certainty moving into 2021. And to Gary's point, our long-term fiscal outlook indicates that we can only expect more difficult days ahead if we don't make these funding decisions sooner rather than later. HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS BUILD MIDDLE SCHOOLER'S DREAM WHEELCHAIR When students in our community find an opportunity to do good for one of their classmates, I am never surprised to see them go above-and-beyond all expectations. Art students at Gwinnett Central High School recently came together to custom build an incredible Black Panther themed costume and wheelchair shell for DJ Johnson - a beloved student at Alton C. Crews Middle School in Lawrenceville. Part of the nationwide Magic Wheelchair program, the participating Gwinnett Central students not only got a chance to take part in a highly technical arts and engineering project, but also to create an unforgettable Halloween for DJ. Modeled after the Marvel Comic hero's Royal Talon Fighter, the wheelchair shell, equipped with a touch screen and over 200 LED lights, is awesome in the truest sense of the word, as DJ himself said. I hope you will join me in thanking all of this year's Magic Wheelchair student participants for their kindness and creativity. You set an incredible example for all of us in the Seventh District as we head into the holiday season. FORSYTH COUNTY BOOKMOBILE SET TO ARRIVE A commitment to lifelong learning is a cornerstone of our Seventh District community, and I am always eager to share the creative ways our community comes together to improve our educational infrastructure. This week, the Forsyth County Public Library's brand new, custom-built Bookmobile is set to arrive home after a long drive from Fort Lupton, Colorado, where it was built. By late November, the Bookmobile will be fully equipped with thousands of books, technological materials, and other resourcesbringing the library directly to our neighbors in across Forsyth County. At a time when access is limited for many due to the COVID-19 public health threat, I appreciate the incredible efforts of the team at Forsyth County Public Library to expand their reach and access to its books and services. I hope you will join me in commending the Forsyth County Public Library staff for turning the vision of a Bookmobile into a reality for our community. Your hard work will go a long way in ensuring that library services are accessible to all our neighbors, regardless of location or mobility. Sincerely, Rob Woodall Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-austin-scott-epa-s-expansion-dicamba-registrations-gives-farmers,Rep. Austin Scott: EPAs Expansion of Dicamba Registrations Gives Farmers More Certainty in the Midst of COVID-19s Negative Impacts,2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,,,legacy,"TIFTON, GA Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, today released the below statement upon U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler announcing that EPA is approving new registrations for two dicamba products and extending the registration of an additional dicamba product. All three registrations include stringent control measures to protect the environment, including non-target plants, animals, and other crops not tolerant to dicamba. The announcement coincides with Administrator Wheeler and Regional EPA Administrator Mary Walker today visiting Cromley Farm in Brooklet, Georgia. Rep. Scott, as well as Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall, and U.S. Representatives Rick Allen (GA-12), Buddy Carter (GA-01) and Doug Collins (GA-09), joined the EPA officials for the visit. Click here to read more. Our farmers make the fiber, food, and fuel for the world, and without close partnerships with agencies like the EPA and risk management tools to plan operations, they would be unable to do so. I'm very glad to see this MOU between EPA and the Georgia Department of Agriculture, and the announcement to allow new registrations of dicamba products for cotton and soybeans two important crops in rural Georgia. This will balance environmental concerns while giving our farmers impacted by the effects of COVID-19 more certainty as they plan for the upcoming crop year. This move will better help farmers recover from market losses and collapses associated with the pandemic, and I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this change for the industry and our rural communities who support agriculture, said Rep. Austin Scott, Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee's Subcommittee on Commodity Exchanges, Energy, and Credit. With today's decision, farmers now have the certainty they need to make plans for their 2021 growing season, said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. After reviewing substantial amounts of new information, conducting scientific assessments based on the best available science, and carefully considering input from stakeholders we have reached a resolution that is good for our farmers and our environment. The United States is the world's leading soybean producer and second-leading soybean exporter and also serves as the world's third-largest cotton producer and the leading cotton exporter. Today, there are limited cost-effective options to control herbicide-resistant weeds affecting these commodities. In 2018, approximately 41 percent of U.S. soybean acreage was planted with dicamba-tolerant (DT) seed and almost 70 percent of U.S. cotton acreage was planted with DT seed in 2019. Relative to alternative herbicide programs, postemergence dicamba may reduce weed control costs for some growers, possibly by as much as $10 per acre, or over five percent of net operating revenue, not accounting for all measures growers will have to take to control off-field movement of dicamba. Through today's action, EPA approved new registrations for two over the top (OTT) dicamba products XtendiMax with VaporGrip Technology and Engenia Herbicide and extended the registration for an additional OTT dicamba product, Tavium plus VaporGrip Technology. These registrations are only for use on dicamba-tolerant (DT) cotton and soybeans and will expire in 2025, providing certainty to American agriculture for the upcoming growing season and beyond. The move was informed by input from state regulators, grower groups, academic researchers, pesticide manufacturers, and others. EPA reviewed substantial amounts of new information and conducted scientific assessments based on the best available science, including making an Effect Determination under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). With this information and input, EPA has concluded that these registration actions meet Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) registration standards. EPA believes that these new analyses address the concerns expressed regarding EPA's 2018 dicamba registrations in the June 2020 U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. After completing its Effects Determinations for dicamba uses on DT cotton and soybeans, EPA concluded that with the control measures now required on labels, these actions do not affect endangered or threatened species. In September, Rep. Scott joined several colleagues in requesting the extension of dicamba product registrations to help farmers better plan operations in the midst of COVID-19's negatively economic impacts. You can click here to read the letter. You can click here to read more on the announcement and Administrator Wheeler's visit to Georgia. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=065E6758-05B5-4F71-942C-89D4A8790849,Rep. Austin Scott: EPA’s Expansion of Dicamba Registrations Gives Farmers More Certainty in the Midst of COVID-19’s Negative Impacts,2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"TIFTON, GA – Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, today released the below statement upon U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler announcing that EPA is approving new registrations for two dicamba products and extending the registration of an additional dicamba product. All three registrations include stringent control measures to protect the environment, including non-target plants, animals, and other crops not tolerant to dicamba. The announcement coincides with Administrator Wheeler and Regional EPA Administrator Mary Walker today visiting Cromley Farm in Brooklet, Georgia. Rep. Scott, as well as Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall, and U.S. Representatives Rick Allen (GA-12), Buddy Carter (GA-01) and Doug Collins (GA-09), joined the EPA officials for the visit. Click here to read more. “Our farmers make the fiber, food, and fuel for the world, and without close partnerships with agencies like the EPA and risk management tools to plan operations, they would be unable to do so. I’m very glad to see this MOU between EPA and the Georgia Department of Agriculture, and the announcement to allow new registrations of dicamba products for cotton and soybeans – two important crops in rural Georgia. This will balance environmental concerns while giving our farmers impacted by the effects of COVID-19 more certainty as they plan for the upcoming crop year. This move will better help farmers recover from market losses and collapses associated with the pandemic, and I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this change for the industry and our rural communities who support agriculture,” said Rep. Austin Scott, Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Commodity Exchanges, Energy, and Credit. “With today’s decision, farmers now have the certainty they need to make plans for their 2021 growing season,” said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “After reviewing substantial amounts of new information, conducting scientific assessments based on the best available science, and carefully considering input from stakeholders we have reached a resolution that is good for our farmers and our environment.” The United States is the world’s leading soybean producer and second-leading soybean exporter and also serves as the world’s third-largest cotton producer and the leading cotton exporter. Today, there are limited cost-effective options to control herbicide-resistant weeds affecting these commodities. In 2018, approximately 41 percent of U.S. soybean acreage was planted with dicamba-tolerant (DT) seed and almost 70 percent of U.S. cotton acreage was planted with DT seed in 2019. Relative to alternative herbicide programs, postemergence dicamba may reduce weed control costs for some growers, possibly by as much as $10 per acre, or over five percent of net operating revenue, not accounting for all measures growers will have to take to control off-field movement of dicamba. Through today’s action, EPA approved new registrations for two “over the top” (OTT) dicamba products – XtendiMax with VaporGrip Technology and Engenia Herbicide – and extended the registration for an additional OTT dicamba product, Tavium plus VaporGrip Technology. These registrations are only for use on dicamba-tolerant (DT) cotton and soybeans and will expire in 2025, providing certainty to American agriculture for the upcoming growing season and beyond. The move was informed by input from state regulators, grower groups, academic researchers, pesticide manufacturers, and others. EPA reviewed substantial amounts of new information and conducted scientific assessments based on the best available science, including making an Effect Determination under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). With this information and input, EPA has concluded that these registration actions meet Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) registration standards. EPA believes that these new analyses address the concerns expressed regarding EPA’s 2018 dicamba registrations in the June 2020 U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. After completing its Effects Determinations for dicamba uses on DT cotton and soybeans, EPA concluded that with the control measures now required on labels, these actions do not affect endangered or threatened species. In September, Rep. Scott joined several colleagues in requesting the extension of dicamba product registrations to help farmers better plan operations in the midst of COVID-19’s negatively economic impacts. You can click here to read the letter. You can click here to read more on the announcement and Administrator Wheeler’s visit to Georgia. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-statement-on-passing-of-sheriff-scott-worsley,BISHOP STATEMENT ON PASSING OF SHERIFF SCOTT WORSLEY,2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, GA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement regarding the passing of Miller County Sheriff Scott Worsley: ""I am saddened to hear that Sheriff Scott Worsley has transitioned from labor to reward. May he be remembered for his tireless dedication to serving and protecting the people of Miller County. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the people of Miller County as we mourn the loss of this great public servant.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://woodall.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletter-archive/district-connection-102620,District Connection - 10/26/20,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,GA,Rob Woodall,W000810,woodall.house.gov,,,legacy,"VOTING UNDERWAY IN GEORGIA Nearly 60 million Americans are estimated to have already cast their ballot for the upcoming 2020 elections, and early voting in Georgia is well underway. As a fundamental civic duty, voting is a right that we must never take for granted. No matter how you choose to cast your ballot, I strongly encourage you to exercise this right. Before you vote, you can visit Georgia's My Voter Page to verify your voter registration status, find your polling place, view a sample ballot, or download an absentee ballot application (if you choose to vote by mail). Early voting ends on October 30th, and those looking to request an absentee ballot who have not already done so should submit an application as soon as possible, as that deadline is this Friday as well. Absentee ballots must be postmarked and returned to your elections office by mail or delivered in person or at a valid drop box location by 7:00 PM on November 3rd. If you choose to vote in person, be sure to bring a valid state or federal government issued photo ID, which you can learn more about HERE. For other questions, please contact the Gwinnett County or Forsyth County Elections office. You can also visit the Secretary of State's Voter Page to review helpful voter and election day information. PRESIDENT TRUMP ISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDER TO AID CONSERVATION EFFORTS As you may know, earlier this year, President Trump announced the United States' commitment to the World Economic Forum's One Trillion Trees Initiative aimed to better manage, conserve, and restore one trillion trees globally by 2030. And just last week, President Trump recently issued the Trillion Trees Executive Order, which creates the One Trillion Trees Interagency Council to coordinate federal forest conservation strategies with states, tribes, communities, non-profits, and the private sector. The Council will also assist in coordinating the United States' efforts with this global initiative. With over a third of the U.S. covered in forest, conservation of our American forestland can serve as a vital recourse to combat climate change through carbon sequestration, with studies estimating that nature-based climate solutions could provide up to one-third of the mitigation needed to keep global temperate rise to 2C by the end of the decade. As a Member on the Congressional Climate Solutions Caucus, I appreciate efforts aimed at not only restoring but better managing our forest lands and public lands. But I also know there is still much work to be done to ensure the utility and beauty of our natural world persists for generations to come. I am encouraged by the widespread commitment from government leaders, industry partners, and citizens to promote conservation, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to find solutions that both address the impacts of climate change and uplift not stifle our economic growth, particularly as our long-term fiscal outlook demands that we do so. SUPPORTING CRITICAL INVESTMENTS IN RURAL ELECTRIC INFRASTRUCTURE As you may recall from last week's newsletter, addressing disparities that exist in broadband internet access has been a continued priority across our nation, particularly among our rural communities. Last week, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue announced $3.1 billion in new funding made available through one such program that works to close the telecommunications gap - the Electric Loan Program. These loans provide much-needed capital so that rural electric cooperatives and utilities can make investments in crucial electric infrastructure projects that increase the access and availability of affordable power and telecommunication services, includingbroadband internet. This supports the delivery of affordable power to not only residential homes but to commercial and agricultural sectors as well. I am pleased that a portion of this infrastructure development will occur right here in Georgia, as this funding will support roughly $218 million in projects across our state. This program plays a critical role in supporting an efficient and reliable electric grid, and that is why each year Congress, in a bipartisan fashion, continues to ensure that funding is made available through this program. In Secretary Perdue's own words, these kinds of infrastructure projects are the cornerstone to prosperity and I am encouraged by the continued commitment in Congress and through our federal agencies to provide for Americans' critical telecommunications needs. FUNDING HEALTH CARE WORKFORCE TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT We all are aware of the important role our health care professionals play in providing quality care to Americans and their families. Amid the COVID-19 public health emergency, we have seen first-hand how critical it is to have a workforce that is equipped to address emerging health needs, particularly in areas where that need is the greatest. Federally-supported workforce programs play a critical role in ensuring that we have a dedicated and skilled workforce, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently announced half a billion in congressionally appropriated funding will be made available to support the recruitment and retention of health care professionals. This new funding will be distributed through federal workforce development programs, including the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) and the Nurse Corps, whose members have served on the frontlines for communities with high-need, particularly during the battle against COVID-19. Nearly 19 million patients receive care from NHSC and Nurse Corps clinicians throughout the United States, and their efforts are critical to increasing access to primary care and substance abuse treatment two emerging health needs that plague our health care systems. This funding will support these workforce development programs, as well as loan repayment and scholarship opportunities to strengthen our health care workforce. I am pleased to see this funding come through in support of our health care professionals so they can provide the best possible service to our nation during this critical time. CONSTITUENT SPOTLIGHT: PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM LOAN FORGIVENESS As you know, a critical line of support created through the CARES Act was the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) which offers forgivable loans for many small businesses, nonprofits, and sole proprietors if those funds were used for eligible payroll and nonpayroll expenses. In June, Congress enacted reforms to add flexibility to the PPP, and with many borrowers now approaching the end of the extended covered period, here are some of the messages I have received from you about the forgiveness process for these loans. Earl from Duluth: When can we expect our banks to give us instructions regarding PPP-Loan forgiveness with the repayment terms beginning this December? Martha from Grayson: Nearly seven months into the pandemic and small businesses across the country continue to do everything they can to withstand its economic impact. But for many small businesses that applied for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, facing a complicated forgiveness process will add insult to injury and will push an additional administrative burden onto them at a time when they are still trying to recover. Congress has the opportunity to make it easier for small businesses that took PPP loans and pass S. 4117/H.R. 7777, streamlined PPP loan forgiveness legislation. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Since the creation of the PPP, Congress has allocated $659 billion in funding to the PPP to keep businesses afloat due to the harsh economic impacts caused by the COVID-19 public health emergency. Over5.2 million loans have been approved through the PPP, with roughly 80% of those loan amounts totaling $100,000 or less a strong indicator of how this program has been able to serve as a lifeline for those small businesses most in need. A total of 174,000 loans amounting to $14.6 billion were approved in Georgia, but the program expired on August 8th and Congressional action would be needed to allow for the second draw of PPP loans. I regret that so much uncertainty continues to exist surrounding the future of Congress' next COVID-19 relief package. And in the absence of a wider deal, I have continued to join my colleagues in urging Speaker Pelosi to bring forth standalone bills to address Americans' continued need for relief. That is why I have also signed on to a discharge petition that would bring H.R. 8265 to the floor for consideration to further the PPP, if it can garner 218 signatures from Members of Congress. As I previously discussed, H.R. 8265 would allow for the second draw of the roughly $134 billion remaining PPPfunds that remain unused for businesses with 300 employees or fewer and demonstrate at least a 25 percent reduction in gross revenues. And to Martha's point, that bill would, similarly to H.R. 7777, streamline the forgiveness process for loans under $150,000 while ensuring the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has the continued capability to review and audit these loans to guard against fraud. But as congressional action remains stifled, borrowers should review current guidance from the SBA and the U.S. Department of Treasury on documentation that is required to apply for loan forgiveness. For example, just this month, SBA issued its new streamlined 3508S Forgiveness application form that can be used by eligible borrowers who received a PPP loan of $50,000 or less. Most importantly, borrowers should know that they are not immediately required to submit an application as soon as their covered period ends, with this guidance noting that as long as a borrower submits its loan forgiveness application within ten months of the completion of the covered period, the borrower is not required to make any payments until the forgiveness amount is remitted to the lender by SBA. Also, some banks are in the early stages of accepting PPP forgiveness applications, and many have only now just begun setting up their systems. Be sure to check with your lender; they may have their own requirements in place as it relates to this process. FORSYTH COUNTY STUDENTS EARN TOP ACT SCORES IN STATE Time and again, students in our communities reach outstanding academic milestones which I am honored to share with you. For the sixth consecutive year, Forsyth County students have achieved the highest ACT scores in Georgia, boasting an average score of 24.9well above the state and national averages. The foundation of our students' success is our district's commitment to family and education, values which I know will live on in this next generation of student leaders as they head off to college. As Forsyth County Schools Superintendent Jeff Bearden said:We are committed to ensuring that our students can lead and succeed in the world. I would like to commend not only our outstanding Forsyth County Schools, but also our parents, guardians, and support systems who provide the love and encouragement necessary for our students to succeed in the classroom. Continuous achievements like this one reflect how truly special our Seventh District community is. GWINNETT COUNTY HOLDS ANNUAL GREAT DAYS OF SERVICE One of the things I greatly admire about our district is that individuals and organizations are not only answering the call to help our friends and neighbors when assistance is most needed, but they are also proactively looking for ways to give back to our community. Last week, Gwinnett County mobilized for its annual Great Days of Service, bringing together thousands of volunteers from across our district to gather, sort, and deliver food and supplies to those in need. Dozens of local organizations like Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful held food and supply drives to meet the needs of those struggling in our area, coming together to improve the lives of individuals and families one donation at a time. Gwinnett Great Days of Service has an incredible track record of successlast year, 26,000 volunteers gathered to collect and donate over 50,000 items. I look forward to hearing about this year's achievements in the coming days. I would like to thank all Gwinnett Great Days of Service volunteers and sponsors for their generosity and time dedicated to making our community a better place to live. Your service will go a long way in making sure that all our neighbors are taken care of in this time. THE WEEK AHEAD After Thursday's vote in the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court, the full Senate is set to vote today to confirm her nomination. As political fanfare continues to grip the Chamber, I regrettably expect the final vote for Judge Barrett's confirmation to fall largely on party lines. While I am disappointed in how this confirmation has taken place, I am pleased that Justice Barrett will be joining the highest court in the land. Also, this week, we will be waiting to hear on the long, drawn-out negotiations to provide Americans relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. Both the Speaker and the White House have indicated a deal is right around the corner, however, differences on both sides remain. I am hopeful we will be able to deliver for our constituents soon. Our nation is in need of relief and we must get serious about getting a deal done. Sincerely, Rob Woodall Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z