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://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/frequently-asked-questions-trump-government-shutdown,Frequently Asked Questions on the Trump Government Shutdown,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,,,legacy,"Frequently Asked Questions from Constituents on the Trump
	Government Shutdown
Will my mail still arrive during the shutdown?  
	Yes. The U.S. Postal Service is not affected by a government shutdown. The U.S. Postal Service is an independent entity that is funded through the sale of its products and services, and not by tax dollars.  
	
Will I continue to receive my Social Security checks?  
	Yes. During a government shutdown, recipients continue to receive their Social Security checks.  
	
Will Medicare and Medicaid be interrupted?  
	No. The operations of Medicare and Medicaid will operate normally during the shutdown.  
	
Can I get taxpayer assistance from IRS personnel during the shutdown?  
	It will likely be difficult. If the Trump Shutdown goes into January, it will have a significant impact on the IRS.While the shutdown continues, 90 percent of the IRS staff is furloughed.IRS's tax filing season is January-April. Beginning in January, some Americans will start thinking about filing their 2018 taxes, due April 15, 2019. This will be the first year when Americans are filing their taxes under the new GOP tax law, and many will have numerous questions. If the Trump Shutdown continues, the limited IRS staff will be unable to keep up with the questions coming in from taxpayers using the IRS customer service hotline.  
	
Can I get a passport during the shutdown?  
	Perhaps, with it depending on where you live. The U.S. Passport Agency remains open during the shutdown and continues to issue passports. However, depending on where you live, the State Department could curtail issuing passports where those passport services are offered in buildings run by another agency that is shut down.  
	
Will I be able to continue visiting the national parks during the shutdown?  
	The Trump Administration claims that the vast majority of national parks are open during the shutdown (on the grounds that barriers have not been put up at the parks to prevent entry.) However, the fact is that there arenoservices for visitors to National Park Service sites during the shutdown. Services such as restrooms, visitors' centers, campgrounds, information kiosks, trash removal, and interpretative programs areall closedduring the shutdown. The vast majority of National Park Service employees are furloughed. Also, law enforcement staffing is sharply curtailed, so visitors' safety will be put at risk.  
	
Will the Smithsonian Museums continue to be open during the shutdown?  
	The Smithsonian has announced that it has prior-year funds that allow its museums to remain open through Tuesday, January 1. However, it appears that if the shutdown lasts beyond January 1, the museums will have to close.  
	
Will I be able to obtain a new flood insurance policy or renew my existing flood insurance policy during the shutdown?  
	No. Just today, Dec. 27, the Trump Administration's FEMA ruled tonotrenew the National Flood Insurance Program during the shutdown. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has stated that today's decision by FEMA jeopardizes tens of thousands of home sales across America, as NAR estimates up to 40,000 closings are disrupted each month that the NFIP cannot issue flood insurance policies.  
	
Which federal departments are affected by the Trump Shutdown?  
	There are nine federal departments affected by the Trump Shutdown: Homeland Security, Treasury, Agriculture, Interior, HUD, Justice, Commerce, Transportation, and State. In addition, numerous critical smaller independent agencies, including EPA, the Small Business Administration, and NASA, are affected. (The six federal departments that are already fully funded for FY 2019 and arenotaffected by the Trump Shutdown are: Defense, Veterans Affairs, HHS, Education, Labor, and Energy.)  
	 
How many federal employees have to work without pay during the Trump Shutdown?  There are approximately 420,000 federal employees, deemed essential, including FBI agents, DEA agents, Secret Service agents, and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents, who are being required to work without pay during the Trump Shutdown. None of them will receive a paycheck until the shutdown is over and the government re-opens. The longer the Trump Shutdown lasts, the longer they are working without a paycheck, increasing their families' financial difficulties.  
	
How many federal employees have been put on unpaid furlough during the Trump Shutdown?  There are also approximately 380,000 federal employees who have been placed on unpaid furlough during the Trump Shutdown. They are also not receiving any pay during the Trump Shutdown.  
	
Will the 420,000 federal employees forced to work without pay during the shutdown receive the pay for their work when the shutdown is over?  
	Yes. Under federal law, those federal employees forced to work without pay in the shutdownare guaranteedthe pay they have earned when the government re-opens.  
	
Will the 380,000 federal employees who were placed on unpaid furlough during the shutdown receive back pay when the shutdown is over?  
	That will be up to the Congress and the White House. Legislation would have to be enacted. The precedent has been that furloughed employeesarelater paid, through legislation. Indeed, after every previous shutdown, Congress has passed legislation mandating that furloughed workers get paid.  
	
What is the impact of the Trump Shutdown on small businesses?  
	A shutdown halts federal loans to small businesses. During a shutdown, the Small Business Administration stops approving applications for small businesses to obtain loans and guarantees, typically $1 billion per month. Indeed, on Dec. 22, SBA put a notice on Facebook simply stating, Due to the lapse in government funding, SBA will remain inactive until further notice.  
	
What is the impact on home mortgage applications?  
	During the shutdown, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will see significant delays in loan processing and approvals, due to the furloughing of most employees. Thousands of people trying to buy a new home or refinance a FHA-insured mortgage will likely be put on standby.  
	
What is the impact on FDA's food safety activities?  
	During the Trump Shutdown, the FDA will be unable to support a number of its food safety activities.FDA has furloughed 40 percent of its employees. As a result, it will have to reduce its routine inspections of domestic food facilities. For example, in the 16-day GOP shutdown in 2013, the FDA had to delay nearly 360 food safety inspections.  
	
Attachment: Frequently Asked Questions from Constituents on the Trump Government Shutdown",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/ranking-member-peterson%E2%80%99s-statement-signing-2018-farm-bill,Ranking Member Petersons Statement on the Signing of the 2018 Farm Bill,2018-12-20,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON (December 20, 2018)  Following President Donald Trump's signing of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Collin Peterson released the following statement:
I am happy to see President Trump sign the farm bill into law today, especially considering the challenges our farmers, ranchers and rural communities face. The law contains programs that will help provide much-needed certainty to producers. The law now provides expanded, affordable risk management options for dairy farmers, as well as permanent, mandatory funding for priorities like the Local Food & Farmers Market Promotion Program, Value-Added Producer Grants, the BFRDP Program, Organic Research, and the Section 2501 Outreach Program. I look forward to working with USDA in the coming Congress to ensure these programs are implemented as quickly as possible and to their full effectiveness.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-trump-signs-farm-bill-law,President Trump Signs Farm Bill into Law,2018-12-20,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Courtesy of the Congressional Western Caucus)
WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, members of the Congressional Western Caucus released statements following signing of the Farm Bill into law by President Donald J. Trump
Chief Defense and Interior Officer Chris Stewart (UT-02): Westerners have cause to celebrate the signing of the Farm Bill. Not only did it provide certainty for our farmers, it included many of my priorities that will deliver much needed habitat restoration for sage grouse and mule deer. Restoring western landscapes while mitigating the risk of catastrophic wildfires is a win for everyone.
Chief Rules Officer Dan Newhouse (WA-04): Thank you, President Trump, for signing this critical legislation on behalf of Farm Country. The 2018 Farm Bill is a major accomplishment that gives Central Washington farmers and agriculture producers across the country much-needed certainty and a secure safety net.
Vice Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee Glenn GT Thompson (PA-05): We were able to make significant reforms improving a number of programs, notably the safety net for our dairy farmers our dairy program. Our dairy farmers have continued to face difficult times over the past decade and we look for the law to provide some much needed stability to the sector. Overall, this is a huge win for producers, rural communities, and American consumers.
Rep. Ralph Abraham (LA-05): The Farm Bill provides our farmers, ranchers and foresters with stability and the strong safety net that they need to plan for their futures. I'm proud of the work we did to get this bill over the finish line, and I'm glad it is now law.
Rep. Ron Estes (KS-04): It was an honor to join President Trump at the White House today as the Farm Bill was signed into law. This law, combined with new work requirements from the Secretary of Agriculture, will provide Kansas farmers and ranchers with needed certainty, make historic investments in rural broadband, and help get people back to work to grow our economy. With the Farm Bill complete, I look forward to continuing to work on new ways to support Kansas agriculture, particularly through free and fair trade deals.
Rep. Steve King (IA-04): I couldn't be happier that President Trump is signing a Farm Bill into law today that meets the immediate needs of rural America. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I worked to ensure that this legislation would promote increased foreign trade, provide producers with predictability, support a FMD vaccine bank, preserve funding for biofuel programs, and strengthen rural broadband services. The Farm Bill we crafted accomplishes all of these good things and many more.
Rep. Tom Emmer (MN-06): I am proud President Trump joined Congress to put our nation's farmers first. Today, the President signed into law important programs for our farmers, including my STRESS Act language, improved dairy risk management tools, funded programs to assist beginning farmers, and better improved livestock disease prevention and response mechanisms as part of this year's Farm Bill. Finally, our farmer's will get the support they deserve.
  Background: On Thursday, December 20, 2018, President Donald J. Trump signed into law H.R. 2, the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, a bill introduced by Western Caucus Member Mike Conaway (TX-11).
A short Committee-drafted highlights page is here. Longer Committee summary here. Messaging & talking points here. Text vis the Conference Report can be found here.
The core of the package is the commodities title, Title I. Regardless of a Member's ideological stance on subsidy, price guarantee and similar government interventions into a market, the fact remains that these programs, by longstanding Congressional direction, have become an entrenched part of the domestic agricultural market, without which the U.S. agricultural industry would suffer amazing losses. The resulting market voids would be filled by foreign competitors, providing them advantage while diminishing food quality and safety just as our nation's farmers go out of business.
Similarly, program lapses and overall uncertainty have extremely detrimental effects on this industry, which is under additional pressures due to ongoing trade disputes.
Net farm income for 2018 is already projected to be at the lowest level since 2002, and a 50% drop has taken place over the last five years. This is the largest such drop since the Great Depression, per the House Committee on Agriculture.
On account of the relationship between the provisions of Title I and the U.S. agricultural industry, the prudent and responsible action for stability in U.S. food markets and the livelihoods of those in the agricultural industry can only be passage of the Farm Bill.
Title II, the conservation title, could be the strongest conservation title of any Farm Bill for Western Members. Increased funding proposals for the Environmental Quality Inceptives Program (EQIP), the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), and the Agriculture Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) are contained in the Conference Report  all welcome fiscal adjustments to useful environmental and soil conservation programs. The Conservation Stewardship Program is restructured to provide better incentives for farmers to address local resource concerns; funding for the program is reduced from $1.8 billion/year to no greater than $1 billion, with the difference being rerouted to the EQIP, ACEP and the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).
The Conference Report provides $500 million for important conservation infrastructure initiatives that include flood prevention and watershed rehabilitation.
  
	Title II also establishes the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program, in order to address the $1.5 billion in damages associated with these invasive species. The Title provides important revenues for the Voluntary Public Access Program and reauthorizes the Conservation of Private Grazing Land Program.
On balance, the Title provides a smarter allocation of scarce and useful conservation & environmental control resources while improving incentives for such resources to be effectively used as intended.
  
	There is also policy progress along the lines of rural broadband, the opiate crisis, rural development and mental health care access in Title VI. Secretarial authority to make grants for rural broadband is expanded and standards thereof are improved for rural America. As pertains to rural health, the Conference Report increases resources for treatment quality and access and addresses record farmer suicide rates by reestablishing the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network.
  Title VII provides important revenues for universities and research. The Conference Report provides new resources to strengthen the landgrant university system.
  Title VIII contains forestry provisions which enhance prevention and treatment of catastrophic wildfire. Insect and disease categorical exclusions to standard environmental review are renewed and expanded to expedite the removal of hazardous fuels from forests. Another categorical exclusion is added for federal land plots up to 4,500 acres for purposes of promoting Greater Sage Grouse and Mule Deer habitat. Good Neighbor Authority, whereby the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) may enter into cooperative forest management agreements with other entities, is expanded to authorize the USFS to enter into such agreements with counties and Indian Tribes. This adds several important, new tools to the USFS toolkit, improving their flexibility in addressing specific forest management problems.
  
	Finally, the Title authorizes USFS to establish a privately-funded pilot program for utility infrastructure rights-of-way vegetation management, in which limited vegetation management near electricity infrastructure outside of a right of way can be employed in order to stave off wildfires started by contact between trees or vegetation and power lines.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-expresses-support-efforts-combat-human-trafficking-0,Emmer Expresses Support for Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking,2018-12-19,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) expressed support for efforts that will help combat the practice of trafficking of Cuban baseball players.
Today, Major League Baseball, the MLB Players Association, and the Cuban Baseball Federation reached an important agreement that will help address the issue of human trafficking that so many Cuban baseball players experience as they seek to play in the United States, said Emmer. It is great to see all parties take the initiative and put together a targeted agreement which will stop the repeated exploitation of these players and their families.
The agreement establishes a framework for Cuban athletes to enter into the Major League system after certain criteria are met. This agreement is consistent with other agreements reached between MLB and countries like Japan, and Korea.
Throughout his time in Congress, Congressman Emmer has supported numerous efforts to combat human trafficking in the United States and globally. These efforts include the Congressman's support of legislation like the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act, H.R. 2200, and the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2017, H.R. 1312. In addition, Congressman Emmer serves as a Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Cuba Working Group. He is the lead sponsor of the Cuba Trade Act, H.R. 442, to lift the current economic embargo on Cuba, and you can read more about his work on Cuba,here.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-leadership-congressional-native-american-caucus,McCollum Statement on Leadership of the Congressional Native American Caucus,2018-12-19,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL, MN-04),Lead Democratof the House Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, which funds the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Indian Health Service, and current Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Native American Caucus, released the following statement regarding the future leadership of the Caucus:
""Last month, the American people elected the most diverse and representative Congress in the history of our nation. Our Democratic House Majority in the 116th Congress will include a record number of women and people of color, including the first two Native American women ever to serve in Congress. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside Congresswomen-elect Deb Haaland (NM-01; Pueblo of Laguna) and Sharice Davids (KS-03; Ho-Chunk Nation). These extraordinary women will bring their experience and leadership to bear for the good of their constituents, tribal nations, and our nation as a whole. For the first time in the 230 years of the United States Congress, Native American women will finally have voices and votes in our federal legislature.
""For the past six years, I have been privileged to serve as the Democratic Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Native American Caucus. I am honored by the trust that tribal leaders throughout the nation have placed with me as we have worked together to meet the needs of Indian Country and to fulfill our federal trust and treaty obligations to their sovereign nations. With great respect and appreciation for that trust, I have decided that I will not be seeking re-election to lead the Caucus in the 116th Congress. I invite my fellow Democratic members of the Native American Caucus to join me in enthusiastically supporting our Native American sisters as they seek to lead the Caucus into a new era.
""My work in support of the Native American Caucus will continue even as I step down from the Caucus leadership, and I look forward to working with the new Democratic Co-Chair and Republican Co-Chair Tom Cole (OK-04; Chickasaw Nation) to improve our government-to-government relationship with tribal nations.
""I extend my deep and lasting gratitude to my good friend, Native American Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Betty McCollum, for her steadfast and effective leadership in advocating for Indian Country, said Rep.-elect Haaland.Betty's unwavering commitment to Indian Country has been remarkable and has helped move the federal government forward in meeting its trust obligations to all native peoples. Betty has protected millions of dollars in critical federal funding for tribes, and she has fought hard to improve the health, safety, and welfare of our people. I look forward to continuing that work with Rep. McCollum and Rep.- Elect Sharice Davids in future Congresses. I am proud to have her blessing and will work hard to continue in her footsteps.""
""Congresswoman McCollum has been a leader on Native American issues and a friend to our community for years. I want to thank her for her dedication, her collaboration with tribal leaders and Native communities, and all she's done to stand up for the issues that are important to Indian Country. I look forward to working with her in the new Congress to build on the progress she's made."" said Rep.-elect Davids.
I am tremendously grateful for Congresswoman Betty McCollum's leadership on behalf of Indian Country, said Congressman Cole. Over the last several years, I have been fortunate to serve alongside her as co-chair of the Native American Caucus, and I am proud of all that we achieved together for tribal nations. In the days ahead, I look forward to continuing to work with her to further advance the conversation on issues of great importance to tribes. Indeed, her contributions remain vital to the cause.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=5AA7E859-A852-48C4-9481-0848DD349314,"Klobuchar, Grassley Introduce New Bipartisan Legislation to Crack Down on Pharmaceutical Pay-for-Delay Deals",2018-12-19,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Klobuchar and Grassley's Preserve Access to Affordable Generics and Biosimilars Act would increase consumer access to affordable drugs by extending their prior legislation against harmful pay-for-delay deals to cover biosimilars, as well as generic drugs 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights, and Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, are introducing new bipartisan legislation to limit anticompetitive pay-for-delay deals that prevent or delay the introduction of affordable follow-on versions of branded pharmaceuticals. The bill extends the reach of their prior legislation  the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act  to cover pay-for-delay deals affecting biosimilar and interchangeable biologics, in addition to the generic drugs already covered under the prior bill. Biologics are a fast-growing class of medicines that are more expensive than traditional pharmaceutical products. The use of pay for delay dealsthe practice in which drug companies use pay-off agreements to delay the introduction of cheaper substitutes  could make some critical prescriptions unaffordable for patients and impose significant costs on our healthcare system.
Biologics play an important and growing role in treating many serious illnesses. Without competition, U.S. patients will likely see additional price increases on biologics in the years to come,said Klobuchar. This legislation will spur competition to drive down prices, helping to ensure patients can access the medications they need to improve their quality of life.
When brand-name drug makers and generics manufacturers enter into agreements to keep more affordable medicines out of the marketplace, all of us are left to pay the price, said Grassley. Competition is critical to keep prescription drug prices low. Generics and biosimilar drugs are critical to treating a variety of serious illnesses. Our bill will curb the anti-competitive, pay-for-delay tactics that artificially inflate prices for patients.
Klobuchar and Grassley have long supported efforts to combat anti-competitive tactics in the pharmaceutical market. The senators are the lead sponsors of thePreserve Access to Affordable Generics Act, which would limit pay for delay deals in which brand-name and generic drug manufacturers use anti-competitive pay-off agreements to delay cheaper generic equivalents from reaching consumers. Earlier this Congress, Grassley and Klobuchar also introduced theCreating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples(CREATES) Act, which would address abuses and delay tactics that prevent generic companies from performing the necessary testing and distribution necessary for U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. TheCREATES Act passed the Senate Judiciary Committee onJune 14, 2018 on a strong, bipartisan vote of 16 to 5.The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has estimated that the bill would result in almost $4 billion in savings.
Klobuchar has championed efforts to protect consumers and lower prescription drug costs by promoting competition in the healthcare system, authoring multiple pieces of bipartisan legislation that would address the high cost of prescription drugs. Klobuchar introduced legislationthat has 34cosponsorsto lift the ban on Medicare negotiating for the best possible price of prescription drugs for nearly 41 million seniors enrolled in Medicare Part D. Last year, Klobuchar and the late Senator John McCain (R-AZ) introducedthe Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act, bipartisan legislation that would allow individuals to safely import prescription drugs from Canada. Klobuchar'sShort on Competition Act, introduced with Senator Mike Lee (R-UT), would allow the temporary importation of drugs that have been approved in another country with similar safety requirements and face little or no competition in the U.S.
In November 2018, Klobuchar and Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), sent a letter to the sent a letter to the President urging him to support legislation to limit anticompetitive pay-for-delay pharmaceutical settlements as part of the Administration's effort to bring down the skyrocketing price of prescription drugs. Full text of the letter can be found here.
In a June 2018 letter, Klobuchar and Grassley urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to examine whether makers of biologic medicines are using strategies like pay for delay to hinder or delay biosimilars from entering the market. Full text of the letter can be found here.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=1EF9A61A-AEDB-4A0B-8642-5CE3CF6114D1,VIDEO: Klobuchar Statement on Senate Passage of First Step Act,2018-12-18,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bipartisan legislation cosponsored by Klobuchar will make needed changes to federal sentencing rules and prison reforms 

WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and an original cosponsor of the First Step Act, announced today that the Senate has passed the legislation with a strong bipartisan vote of 87-12. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation reflects Klobuchar's long-standing efforts to reform the criminal justice system to strike a more effective balance in the administration of justice while keeping our communities safe.
As a former prosecutor, I know firsthand that our criminal justice system must ensure the fair administration of justice while keeping our communities safe, said Klobuchar. This bipartisan legislation makes needed changes to our sentencing laws, while also bringing important reforms to federal prisons. I have worked to advance legislation to address these issues for years as a member of the Judiciary Committee, and this bill represents a critical opportunity that shouldn't go to waste.

The First Step Act is a compromise between prison reform proposals that overwhelmingly passed in the House of Representatives earlier this year, and sentencing reform provisions from the bipartisanSentencing Reform and Corrections Actwhich was cosponsored by Senator Klobuchar and passed the Senate Judiciary Committee in February by a vote of 16-5. The bill seeks to change overly harsh sentencing laws on low-level drug offenders and incorporates much-needed reforms to our federal prisons intended to reduce recidivism rates.

In addition to being endorsed by President Trump and cosponsored by 38 members of the Senate, the bill has broad support from law enforcement and civil liberties groups, including The National Fraternal Order of Police, 172 former federal prosecutors, and sheriffs from 34 states across the country.

The following is a summary of key aspects of the legislation:
Reducing Federal Recidivism and Crime
 Provides for increased programming designed to reduce recidivism and provides incentives for participation in those programs. 
 Implements a post-sentencing dynamic risk assessment system to determine an inmate's risk of committing more crimes upon release from prison. 
 Establishes eligibility criteria for and incentivizes participation in evidence-based recidivism reduction programs by allowing prisoners to earn time credits for prerelease custody (defined as residential reentry centers or, for low risk prisoners, home confinement). For example, a prisoner may earn 10 days of time credit for every 30 days of successful participation in a recidivism-reduction program or other eligible activity. However, only prisoners classified as minimum or low risk may redeem these time credits to reduce their sentence. 
 In addition to the exclusion preventing all but those classified as minimum or low risk from redeeming time credits, the bill makes clear that violent and high-risk criminals convicted of certain serious offenses are ineligible for the pre-release custody program, including those convicted of crimes relating to terrorism, murder, sexual exploitation of children, espionage, violent firearms offenses, or those that are organizers, leaders, managers, supervisors in the fentanyl and heroin drug trade.
Preparing Inmates for Successful Return to Society
 Provides more meaningful employment and training opportunities for inmates by expanding the federal prison industries program. 
 Requires the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to submit a report and evaluation of the current pilot program to treat heroin and opioid abuse through medicationassisted treatment. 
 Extends the compassionate elderly release provision from the Second Chance Act that allows the prisoner to request for his or her compassionate release if he or she meets the requirements set out in the law. 
 Codifies BOP's rules that generally prohibit the use of restraints on pregnant inmates except those who are an immediate and credible flight risk or threat of harm to herself or others. 
 Mandates inmates be housed no more than 500 miles from the prisoner's primary residence and grants authority for prisoners to save earnings in an escrow account used for pre-release expenses, such as transportation and housing. 
 Clarifies the formula by which the BOP calculates good time credit (time off for good behavior) in line with original Congressional intent. Under current law, prisoners can earn up to 54 days per year for good behavior in prison, but technicalities in the law keep prisoners on early release from utilizing those days.
Enhancing Prison Security and Officer Safety
 Requires the Director of BOP to provide a secure storage area outside the secure perimeter for employees to store firearms or to allow for vehicle lock boxes for firearms. 
 Directs the Director of BOP to provide de-escalation training as part of the regular training requirements of correctional officers.
Broadcast quality footage of Klobuchar's floor speech on criminal justice reform from earlier today can be found here.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/us-sen-tina-smith-federal-judge%E2%80%99s-decision-threatens-vital-health-care-coverage-millions,U.S. Sen. Tina Smith: Federal Judge’s Decision Threatens Vital Health Care Coverage for Millions of Americans,2018-12-18,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Sen. Tina Smith: Federal Judge's Decision Threatens
Vital Health Care Coverage for Millions of Americans
WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/14/18]Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) released the following statement after a federal judge in Texas deemed provisions of the landmark Affordable Health Care Act unconstitutional.
The ruling by a federal judge in Texas today to undermine historic health care legislationif the decision is allowed to standwould be catastrophic. This ruling would rob millions of their health care coverage, and would return us to the days whenAmericans could be denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions, like cancer or diabetes, or allow women to be charged more for health insurance. Americans made their voices heard to stop repeal last year, and they voted out so many of those who attempted repeal this year. I will keep standing with the American people to fight against these reprehensible attacks on vital coverage.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-sen-tina-smith-federal-judges-decision-threatens-vital-health-care-coverage-millions-americans,U.S. Sen. Tina Smith: Federal Judges Decision Threatens Vital Health Care Coverage for Millions of Americans,2018-12-18,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/14/18]—Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) released the following statement after a federal judge in Texas deemed provisions of the landmark Affordable Health Care Act unconstitutional.

“The ruling by a federal judge in Texas today to undermine historic health care legislation—if the decision is allowed to stand—would be catastrophic. This ruling would rob millions of their health care coverage, and would return us to the days when Americans could be denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions, like cancer or diabetes, or allow women to be charged more for health insurance. Americans made their voices heard to stop repeal last year, and they voted out so many of those who attempted repeal this year. I will keep standing with the American people to fight against these reprehensible attacks on vital coverage.”

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-helps-exempt-livestock-and-insect-haulers-eld-mandate,Peterson helps exempt livestock and insect haulers from ELD mandate,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last week, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced that livestock and insect haulers are indefinitely exempt from the requirements of the electronic logging device (ELD) mandate. According to the agency's website, drivers transporting livestock and insects can continue to use paper logs to document their hours of service until further notice. FMCSA also noted that effected drivers do not need to carry documentation about the exemption.
This decision helps reduce the lingering uncertainty about which types of haulers need to use ELDs, said Congressman Peterson. More importantly, it also helps ensure that agricultural products arrive to market in a safe and efficient manner.
""The care and safety of our animals is our top priority. Minnesota Farm Bureau appreciates the clarity that FMCSA's announcement provides for farmers and ranchers while transporting them from one location to another in the safest manner possible,"" said Minnesota Farm Bureau (MFBF) President Kevin Paap. ""Thank you to Congressman Peterson for his leadership in addressing this issue.""
In the 115th Congress, Congressman Peterson sent letters to FMCSA calling for increased clarity and flexibility around the ELD mandate as it relates to livestock and insect haulers. He also introduced the bipartisan Agricultural Business Electronic Logging Device Exemption Act (H.R. 5949) to completely exempt agricultural businesses from the ELD mandate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-12142018,Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/14/2018,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Roll Call Vote 434
Dear Friends,
This week, the Farm Bill Conference Report was approved by the House and Senate with strong bipartisan support. After months of negotiations, I am proud of the work that was done to get this legislation through Congress and onto the President's desk. I urge President Trump to act quickly and sign this bill into law without delay. On Tuesday, the Canadian Ambassador to the U.S. visited my office to discuss the status of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Leaders of the Minnesota Farm Bureau were in Washington this week and they met with me on Thursday to talk about the passage of the Farm Bill and new members who have an interest in serving on the Agriculture Committee next year. Next week, Congress must enact a funding plan to avoid a government shutdown before the holidays.
Sincerely,
Congressman Collin C. Peterson  Minnesota 7th District
 Farm Bill Conference Report Passes House and Senate 
  Speaking in support of the Farm Bill on the House Floor on Wednesday
The Farm Bill Conference Report was approved by both the House and Senate with significant bipartisan support this week. A vote of 369-47 in the House and 87-13 in the Senate makes the 2018 Farm Bill the most widely supported farm bill in history. Rural America is facing many challenges right now, and this bill goes a long way to provide certainty to farmers and ranchers. It reforms and reauthorizes many USDA programs, allowing them to provide better support for producers during this difficult time. The reforms to dairy programs that expand coverage options and increases flexibility for dairy farmers are some of the most important provisions included in this bill. While the road to get here was rough, I am proud of the work that was done to make this bill a success. I encourage President Trump to sign the Farm Bill into law quickly.
I held a press conference at the Moorhead airport to answer questions about the Farm Bill on Friday. I discussed reforms that will assist dairy producers, sugarbeet growers, and nutrition beneficiaries. Click here to read more about the 2018 Farm Bill.
 Canadian Ambassador to the United States 
  Ambassador David MacNaughton
Ambassador MacNaughton visited with me to discuss the new United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, a trade deal that must be ratified by the next Congress. Steel and aluminum tariffs continue to be an issue for Canada and the United States as marine and snowmobile manufacturing facilities in my district are facing increased input costs. I look forward to working with my Canadian counterparts as USMCA continues to be debated in Congress.
 Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation 
  Brian Hanson, Director of Public Policy Amber Hanson Glaeser, Julie Paap, President Kevin Paap
Leaders of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation visited with me on Thursday about the Farm Bill's passage through Congress and the next steps to implement the legislation. During the 116th Congress, lawmakers must oversee the U.S. Department of Agriculture's implementation of the 2018 Farm Bill to ensure the modified programs operate the way lawmakers intended. We also discussed which incoming members of the House of Representatives have shown interest in serving on the House Committee on Agriculture next year.
 Beltrami County Commissioner 
Reed Olson, a Beltrami County Commissioner, visited my office this week to discuss healthcare, child services, and economic development across the county. I look forward to working with Reed, particularly as we continue to combat the national opioid epidemic.
 Affordability Champion Award 
This week, the Council for Affordable Health Coverage presented me with the 2018 Affordability Champion Award. The Council, which includes Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, selected me for my support of the Premium Relief Act (H.R. 4666) and the Increasing Access to Lower Premium Plans and Expanding Health Savings Accounts Act of 2018 (H.R. 6311). Both pieces of legislation are designed to lower premiums and expand coverage options.
 Minnesota State Cattlemen's Association 
  Minnesota State Cattlemen's Association President Mike Landuyt and Former MSCA President Sekeka
I attended the 2018 Minnesota Cattle Industry Convention held by the Minnesota State Cattlemen's Association in Alexandria last weekend. I addressed the Cattlemen and visited with their members during my visit. We spoke about the Farm Bill and the need to give states the right to manage their populations of gray wolves. The gray wolf population is much larger in Minnesota than in other parts of the country and has been causing issues for livestock owners. I have advocated for state-level management of gray wolves for years, and I will continue to push for this change during the 116th Congress.
 U.S. Military Academy Panel 
  Mike Arntson, Alex Cabrera, Ed Zarembo, Steve Cotaiu, Richard Smestad
The U.S. Military Academies were first established to provide future officers with specialized training in areas like engineering and artillery. These Academies have developed prestigious reputations for excellence in education and leadership. Each year, it is my honor to nominate qualified individuals from within my district to these Academies. This past weekend, several students from my district heard from a panel of Academy alumni and full-time service members about their experience. My staff aide Meg Louwagie attended the panel.
 Canola Symposium in Roseau 
The Minnesota Canola Council and University of Minnesota Extension held the Canola Symposium in Roseau this Tuesday. Speakers from Manitoba, North Dakota, and Minnesota discussed topics including Why Grow Canola on Your Farm? and The Life of a Flea Beetle. If you could not attend this conference but would like to learn more about canola, most of the presentations are available at www.mncanola.org. My staff attended this event and enjoyed the opportunity to meet and visit with canola growers.
 Michael Wedin Completes FBI Training Academy 
  Michael, Luke, April, Reese and Joe Wedin
Michael Wedin from Thief River Falls is a Captain within the Minnesota State Patrol. This week, he completed the 11-week FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia where he took master level classes in leadership and constitutional law, among other courses led by the FBI to improve his ability to serve the State of Minnesota. Michael is honored to have been selected to represent the Minnesota State Patrol at the 247th session of the FBI National Academy and plans to bring his new knowledge and leadership skills back with him. Michael and his family stopped by my Washington, D.C. office on Thursday.
 New Staff Serving the 7th 
Grant Herfindahl recently became part of my staff in Willmar. Grant has been active in community affairs and local politics for many years and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience. He was elected Clerk of the Benson Township Board in 1980 and continues to serve in that position today. He also served as a County President and on the state policy committee of Minnesota Farmers. In 1989, he was elected to the Swift County ASCS County Committee until he entered a USDA training program to become a County Executive Director (CED). He went on to serve as a CED for nearly 20 years in counties throughout the 7th District. In 2015, Grant received a Presidential appointment to be the State Director of the Farm Service Agency in Minnesota. Welcome to the team, Grant!
 Minnesota Premium Security Program 
This week, I joined my colleagues in urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in opposition to a proposed $100 million cut to Minnesota's reinsurance program, the Minnesota Premium Security Program (MPSP). This decision contradicts an agreement reached last year by the state and the federal government to help stabilize Minnesota's individual health insurance market. The Minnesota Department of Commerce estimates that MPSP, which I organized federal support for in 2017, reduced premium rates by 20% for 2019 coverage. I will continue to fight the proposed cut.
 Rural Broadband Development 
This week, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted in favor ofan orderto help address the budget shortfall in the High-Cost Universal Service Fund (USF). This action, which I requested in two bipartisan letters to the FCC, will provide hundreds of millions of dollars to small, rural operators every year as they work to develop broadband in rural communities. The vote was an important step toward providing rural communities with comparable broadband services for comparable rates, and I will continue to advocate for future investment in the USF.
 Newsstand 
 2019 Health Insurance Coverage 
The deadline to register for January 1, 2019 health insurance coverage is midnight on Saturday, December 15. MNsure has posted a plan comparison tool and income guidelines to help Minnesotans determine whether they qualify for tax credits or other financial assistance.
 Trade Aid Held Up by Office of Management and Budget 
USDA was expected to announce the second round of trade relief payments during the first week of December, but the approval process has been delayed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and OMB Director Mick Mulvaney met with President Trump on December 14th to discuss the second half of payments and to determine if additional payments will be made.
 USDA ReConnect Broadband Program 
This week, USDA announced a new rural broadband initiative called ReConnect. The $600 million loan and grant program, which was authorized by Congress in March, will prioritize projects designed to deliver high-speed connections to rural homes, businesses, and farms. More information about the program, its eligibility requirements, and application deadlines can be found here.
 Forest Service Report 
As a co-chair of the Congressional Working Forests Caucus, I am a strong supporter of sustainable timber harvests that benefit our National Forests and businesses. Today, the Forest Service announced that the agency sold 3.2 billion board feet this fiscal year, which is 10% more than last year. Due to smart forest management, this is the first time in 20 years that the Forest Service has sold more than 3 billion board feet.
 This Week in American History 
On December 12th, 1928, the newly built Foshay Tower in Minneapolis was lit up for the holidays. After a visit to Washington, D.C., businessman Wilbur B. Foshay came to Minnesota with the hope to create a tower inspired by the Washington Monument. The construction of this building began in the 1920s. It remained the tallest building in the city for almost fifty years. In the 1970s, it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Today, the Tower is a museum that pays homage to the city of Minneapolis and the building's observation deck offers a spectacular view of the city.
 What's the Story? 
This year, the 2018 United States Congressional Holiday Ornament features a miniature version of a stained-glass window found in the United States' Capitol. This window was the work of the J. & G. Gibson Company of Philadelphia and was completed in 1859. It displays a symbol of patriotism, the American Bald Eagle. Underneath the eagle is our nation's motto, E Pluribus Unum, Out of many, one. During the holiday season, I have a few of these ornaments in my Washington office.
You can see the other ornaments in this collection here.
  My Cat Cookie  Amy Thompson  Clara City",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/walz-releases-southern-minnesota-way-of-life-report,Walz Releases Southern Minnesota Way of Life Report,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tim Walz,W000799,walz.house.gov,,,legacy,"MANKATO, MN  Today, U.S. Representative Tim Walz (MN-01) released the Southern Minnesota Way of Life Report on behalf of the people of Minnesota's First Congressional District. The report summarizes what Rep. Walz and his office learned from constituents over the last two years along their listening tour across southern Minnesota. Alongside insight into the needs and the potential of southern Minnesota, the report showcases the Walz's Small Town and Regional Vitality Investment Act, legislation to invest in the needs and longevity of Minnesota's small towns and empower local leaders to create jobs.
This report is a call to action, said Rep. Walz. It's a call to continue the conversations and building the bridges we started along the Southern Minnesota Way of Life Tour. It's a call to participate in our democracy and invite others to do the same. It's a call to unite and collaborate on commonsense solutions that benefit all our communities.
I want to thank everyone who participated in our meetings, roundtables and summits over the last couple of years, Walz concluded. This report and the Small Town and Regional Vitality Investment Act would not have been made possible without your invaluable input and expertise. It is because of each and every one of you that Minnesota has a bright future, and I look forward to continue working with you all to bring it to fruition.
Background
In May of 2017, Walz and his office set out to visit all 21 counties in Minnesota's First Congressional District to hear from constituents and community leaders about how to protect and enrich their way of life in southern Minnesota. Along the Southern Minnesota Way of Life Tour, Walz and his team convened more than 60 meetings purposefully in small towns to hear about the critical challenges rural leaders are facing when it comes to meeting the current and projected needs of their local residents and communities.
The Tour culminated in the Small Town and Regional Vitality Investment Act (H.R. 6383), legislation Walz introduced in July of 2018 to invest in the needs and longevity of Minnesota's small towns and empower local leaders to create jobs. Specifically, the bill creates a new investment initiative by sharing federal revenues directly with local governments to address the major challenges facing their specific communities. Furthermore, the legislation also spurs the alignment of the pressing decisions small towns have to make with their region's long-term strategic framework.
Summary
The Southern Minnesota Way of Life Report recaps the Southern Minnesota Way of Life Tour; summarizes what Walz and his team learned about the issues from southern Minnesotans; addresses how the office's findings can inform public policy; shares the message Walz's office heard from southern Minnesotans; showcases Walz's Small Town and Regional Vitality Investment Act; and provides a list of folks and organizations that participated in the office's listening tour.
The specific needs of small town Minnesota communities identified in the report and addressed by Walz's legislation include but aren't limited to:
 affordable, quality child care and early childhood education options
	public infrastructure investment, such as waste water treatment facilities and substance abuse treatment centers
	sufficient housing opportunities for the local workforce
	reliable, high-speed internet
	increase in health care services, including mental health care, and affordable health insurance options
	increase in skilled, experienced workers
	increase in amenities like art and music, sports, bike trails, and other outdoor recreational opportunities
 To read the Southern Minnesota Way of Life Report in full, click here.
Small Town and Regional Vitality Investment Act Support
Numerous small towns, counties and organizations have passed Resolutions of Support for Walz's legislation, including:
 City of Austin
	City of Blooming Prairie
	City of Darfur
	City of Grand Meadow
	City of Grand Meadow EDA
	City of Houston
	City of Kasson
	City of Fergus Falls
	City of Luverne
	Dodge County
	Fillmore County
	Greater Minnesota Partnership
	Southwest Regional Development Commission
 Statements in support of the bill:
The Small Towns and Regional Vitality Investment Act is the kind of game changer that can revitalize rural Minnesota and spark economic growth across the state, said Mayor Roy Srp, Waseca. This bill is an example of the kind of leadership Congressman Walz is known for. He listens and brings people together to solve problems. 
Rural communities across Minnesota can tackle the challenges they face if we work together to create investment in the things that matter most, said Nicole Griensewic-Mickelson, Executive Director, Region 9 Development. Organizations like mine help communities plan for their future and this legislation will tie that planning to strategic investment that will improve small towns across the state.
Many of our workers have to travel long distances to job sites, said Carly Melin, Executive Director, MN Building and Construction Trades Council. This legislation will create jobs close to home for Minnesotan construction workers and will help revitalize local economies from the ground up.
To learn more about how Rep. Walz's Small Town and Regional Vitality Investment Act will help Minnesota's small towns reach their full potential, please click here for an overview and click here for the full bill text.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=05891FA6-066F-481E-8C4E-D395A7B66724,Klobuchar Statement on New Reports Detailing Russia’s Use of Information Warfare to Influence Elections,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement after reports commissioned by the Senate Intelligence Committee were released, highlighting the Internet Research Agency's (IRA) use of online platforms to sow division and influence discourse in the United States.
For the last two years Congress has been investigating the tactics Russia used in its attack on our democracy. The reports released today show that Russia's operation to divide Americans and undermine people's trust in government was highly sophisticated, coordinated, and well financed. As we move forward with a common set of facts about how Russia exploited online platforms to hurt us, we must come together with a common purpose to ensure it never happens again. Congress should move swiftly to pass my Honest Ads Act and Secure Elections Act to bring more transparency and accountability to online platforms and help prevent foreign interference in our elections.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=F885EAEC-D976-42FF-86F3-1E78010246BA,"Klobuchar, Capito Bipartisan Legislation to Measure the Economic Impact of Broadband Passes Senate",2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Accurate, reliable data on the economic impact of broadband is a valuable tool for policymakers and business leaders; Many research institutions, state broadband offices, and trade associations have highlighted the need for this data
 
 The Measuring the Economic Impact of Broadband Act would require the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Director of the Bureau of Economic Analysis, to conduct a study of the effects of broadband deployment and adoption on the U.S. economy 
WASHINGTON  U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), co-chairs of the Senate Broadband Caucus, announced that the Measuring the Economic Impact of Broadband Act has passed the Senate. While the federal government measures the economic impact of many industries, it does not produce current, reliable statistics on the economic impact of broadband on the U.S. economy. Accurate, reliable data on the economic impact of broadband is a valuable tool for policymakers and business leaders and many research institutions, state broadband offices, and trade associations have highlighted the need for this data. The Measuring the Economic Impact of Broadband Act would require the Bureau of Economic Analysis to conduct a study of the effects of broadband deployment and adoption on the U.S. economy.
Broadband is a critical force for creating jobs, leveling the playing field, and increasing opportunity, Klobuchar said. Our bipartisan legislation will help provide us with the reliable, publicly available economic data we need to make informed decisions about expanding broadband, connecting our communities, and keeping us competitive in an increasingly digital world.
Broadband connectivity has the power to unleash jobs and fuel economic growth throughout the country, especially in rural areas like West Virginia. This legislation will provide the data needed to measure the benefits of broadband accessibility and the importance of investing in critical broadband infrastructure. I'm proud to join with my partner on the Senate Broadband Caucus to introduce a bill that will help bridge the digital divide in the areas that need it most, Capito said.
In conducting this analysis, the Secretary will consider job creation, business headcount, online commerce, income, education and distance learning, telehealth, telework, agriculture, population growth, population density, broadband speed, and geography. The Secretary may consult representatives of business, including rural and urban internet service providers and telecommunications infrastructure providers; state, local, and Tribal government agencies; and consumer and community organizations.
Other original cosponsors of the bill include Senators Angus King (I-ME), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), and John Boozman (R-AR), who are the other co-chairs of the Senate Broadband Caucus, and Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV).
This legislation is supported by Connected Nation, NTCA  The Rural Broadband Association, CTIA, WIA  The Wireless Infrastructure Association, ITTA  The Voice of America's Broadband Providers and CCIA.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-helps-secure-hundreds-millions-dollars-rural-broadband-development,Peterson helps secure hundreds of millions of dollars for rural broadband development,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted in favor of an order to help address the budget shortfall in the High-Cost Universal Service Fund (USF), which is also known as the Connect America Fund. This action, which came at the request of Representative Peterson and his colleagues, will provide hundreds of millions of dollars to small, rural operators every year as they work to develop broadband in rural communities.
In October 2017 and May 2018, Representative Peterson led bipartisan letters strongly urging the FCC to increase funding to the High-Cost USF. The letters emphasized the disadvantage that millions of rural Americans without dependable voice and internet services.
This vote was an important step toward providing rural communities with comparable broadband services for comparable rates, said Peterson. I thank the FCC for its decision and will continue to advocate for future investment in the USF.
Thanks to the leadership of Representative Collin Peterson and other key members of Congress, the USF reforms adopted today by the FCC should provide much-needed support to help small, rural broadband providers in Minnesota as they work to build out and sustain robust broadband for the benefit of their customers, said Shirley Bloomfield, CEO of NTCA  The Rural Broadband Association.
This decision will help ensure that rural America has access to quality broadband for years to come. This reform will provide needed stability to rural broadband providers throughout the country, particularly in Minnesota, as we continue to build border to border broadband in our state, said Brent Christensen, President and CEO of the Minnesota Telecom Alliance. This happened in no small part to the leadership of Congressman Collin Peterson.His ongoing support of rural broadband continues to make a difference to the people of Minnesota.We are fortunate to have Congressman Peterson fighting for us in Washington.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-supports-legislation-reduce-healthcare-expenditures,Peterson supports legislation to reduce healthcare expenditures,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, Representative Peterson agreed to co-sponsor H.R. 5856, the Good Samaritan Charitable Physicians Service Act, to provide tax deductions to certified healthcare providers in exchange for pro-bono services to Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries.
The Good Samaritan Charitable Physicians Service Act has the potential to save billions of dollars in federal healthcare expenditures, said Peterson. There are certified doctors ready and willing to serve a greater number of patients under this legislation.
The Good Samaritan Charitable Physicians Service Act will reduce healthcare spending, increase healthcare options for those most in need, and create better health outcomes for the most vulnerable populations in our communities, said Ron Nordin, the MN-07 Delegate for the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC). AMAC applauds Congressman Peterson's co-sponsorship of H.R. 5856, and will continue to work with him to make meaningful healthcare reforms that will benefit each and every American.""
Eligible services under H.R. 5856 largely include primary care and preventive services, and tax deductions are based on the value of services performed.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/ranking-member-peterson%E2%80%99s-floor-statement-consideration-farm-bill-conference-report,Ranking Member Petersons Floor Statement on Consideration of the Farm Bill Conference Report,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON (December 12, 2018)  House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Collin Peterson delivered the following statement today during consideration on the House floor of H.R.2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018:
[As prepared for delivery]
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Conference Report on H.R. 2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018.
The conference report we are considering today would reauthorize farm bill programs for five years. The 2014 farm bill expired on September 30th, and while the road to get here had a few bumps along the way, I'm glad that we were finally able to reach an agreement. Now it's time to get this done.
During a time when rural America is facing a downturn in the farm economy and a trade war that's taking its toll on crop, livestock and dairy producers from coast to coast, this bill will provide needed certainty to farmers and ranchers.
The bill continues a variety of commodity, conservation, trade, nutrition, credit, rural development, research, energy and specialty crop programs. It also provides permanent mandatory funding for several of the programs that first got mandatory funding in the 2008 farm bill, when I was chairman. These include the Local Food & Farmers Market Promotion Program, Value-Added Producer Grants, the BFRDP Program, Organic Research, and the Section 2501 Outreach Program.
One of the most important pieces in this bill, however, is the improvement it makes for our dairy farmers. The economic downturn in farm country is hitting dairy hardest of all. In my home state of Minnesota and in neighboring Wisconsin, an average of two dairies are going out of business every day. The provisions in this bill will provide expanded, affordable coverage options and more flexibility for dairy farmers. I am proud to put my name on this program.
We are also providing $300 million in mandatory funding for animal disease programs at a time when our U.S. livestock industry is facing continued danger from unchecked threats. That money will go to increasing our ability to prevent and respond to animal pests and diseases that harm our animals and threaten the viability of our livestock operations.
There are folks who have liked to have seen different directions taken on several issues in this bill, but this is a conference report, where the House and Senate figure out where the common ground is.
I am proud of the work we did together on this bill, and I am very appreciative of the hard work of the Majority and its staff, as well as my staff, under the direction of Anne Simmons and Troy Phillips.
I would encourage my colleagues to support this effort, and I look forward to continuing the discussion on many of these issues in the next congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-elect-phillips-signals-support-capitol-hill-sexual-harassment-reform-plan,Rep.-Elect Phillips Signals Support for Capitol Hill Sexual Harassment Reform Plan,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Dean Phillips,P000616,phillips.house.gov,,,legacy,"EXCELSIOR, MN - Rep.-elect Phillips released the following statement today on lawmakers' deal to overhaul how Congress handles incidents of sexual harassment:

I am encouraged that members of both parties have come together around a reform package that empowers survivors, eliminates reporting roadblocks and places liability on perpetrators, where it belongs. This is exactly the type of meaningful work that voters are eager to see their representatives to take on -- another step on the long road of restoring a government that is run -- and trusted -- by the people. Minnesota has long sent effective legislators to Washington, and I look forward to standing with Senator Klobuchar and other leaders in Congress who are working to pass these overdue reforms.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=08466674-824F-42A2-B5C3-7E9D2FAF828F,"Klobuchar, Blunt Bipartisan Sexual Harassment Bill is Headed to President’s Desk",2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation reforms the broken dispute resolution process, protects workers, and holds Members of Congress accountable 
WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO), the Ranking Member and Chair of the Senate Rules Committee, announced that their bipartisan legislation to reform the process to pursue claims of sexual harassment or other workplace discrimination experienced on Capitol Hill is headed to the President's desk. The final text of the legislation was agreed upon yesterday by leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives and passed both chambers today with strong bipartisan support. The legislation would reform the dispute resolution process, protect workers, increase transparency and hold Members of Congress accountable.
Sexual harassment goes far beyond the cases you read in the headlinesit's not just about the rich and famous, but also the nurse, or the teacher, or the line worker at the factory. Today, Congress sent a message that workplace harassment of any kind is unacceptable, Klobuchar said. The time has come to stop protecting politicians and to start supporting victims. All men and women deserve a workplace free from harassment.
Today, the House and Senate came together to end a broken process that failed victims for far too long, Blunt said. This bipartisan, bicameral agreement will protect the rights of victims and ensure perpetrators are held accountable for conduct unacceptable in the Congress or any workplace. I thank Senator Klobuchar and House and Senate leadership for getting this bill through Congress and on its way to the president's desk.
This legislation would change the way harassment claims are handled in Congress by eliminating the required 30-day counseling period, the required 30-day mediation phase, and the 30-day cooling off period. The legislation would allow a victim to immediately pursue an administrative hearing or file a civil action. It would also hold Members of Congress personally liable by requiring them to reimburse the Treasury for awards and settlements stemming from acts of harassment they personally commit, including Members who leave office.
In addition, the legislation would:
 
Hold Members of Congress personally liable by pay for awards and settlements stemming from acts of harassment and related retaliation they personally commit, including Members who leave office.
Eliminate the required 30-day counseling period, the required 30-day mediation phase, and the 30-day cooling off period.
Provide employees with access to a dedicated advocate who will provide consultation and assistance regarding proceedings before the Office of Compliance.
Require public reporting of awards and settlements, including identifying if a Member of Congress was personally liable.
Require awards or settlements to be automatically referred to the Committee on Ethics for claims against Members of Congress and senior staff.
Extend protections under the Congressional Accountability Act to unpaid staff, including interns, detailees and fellows, and other Legislative Branch staff.
Provide opportunities for employees to work remotely or request paid leave without fear of retribution.
Require a survey of staff each Congress to examine the workplace culture on Capitol Hill.
Provide additional support for state, district and regional Legislative Branch staff to ensure they have the same access to Office of Compliance resources, training opportunities, guidance and advice as Washington D.C. based legislative branch workers.
Require the Office of Compliance to establish an electronic system for taking in claims by victims, tracking those claims throughout the process, and generating reports on various details of claims.
 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=327826EF-3191-4B2C-BA43-5ACFAEB06C81,"Klobuchar, Schatz, Senators Introduce Legislation to Protect Personal Data Online",2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Data Care Act will stop websites and apps from using personal data against users, protect user information from hacks, and hold companies accountable for misuse 
WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) joined Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) in introducing new legislation to protect people's personal data online. The Data Care Act would require websites, apps, and other online providers to take responsible steps to safeguard personal information and stop the misuse of users' data.
Online platforms are collecting an enormous amount of personal data on Americans  everything from what we buy and what websites we go to, to what our emails say and where we go throughout the day. These companies are making billions off of this data and they're keeping Americans in the dark about how it is being used. That's wrong and it is especially alarming because it seems like every day we hear about new data breaches. It is clear that we must do more to protect consumer privacy. The Data Care Act will help by establishing a duty of care for sensitive data and by ensuring the FTC can hold companies accountable when they fall short. The digital space can't keep operating like the Wild West at the expense of our privacy,Klobuchar said.
People have a basic expectation that the personal information they provide to websites and apps is well-protected and won't be used against them. Just as doctors and lawyers are expected to protect and responsibly use the personal data they hold, online companies should be required to do the same. Our bill will help make sure that when people give online companies their information, it won't be exploited, Schatz said.
Doctors, lawyers, and bankers are legally required to exercise special care to protect their clients and not misuse their information. While online companies also hold personal and sensitive information about the people they serve, they are not required to protect consumers' data. This leaves users in a vulnerable position; they are expected to understand the information they give to providers and how it is being used  an unreasonable expectation for even the most tech-savvy consumer. By establishing a fiduciary duty for online providers, Americans can trust that their online data is protected and used in a responsible way.
In addition to Klobuchar and Schatz, the Data Care Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Patty Murray (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Doug Jones (D-AL), Joe Manchin (D-WV), and Dick Durbin (D-IL).
The Data Care Act establishes reasonable duties that will require providers to protect user data and will prohibit providers from using user data to their detriment:  
 
Duty of Care  Must reasonably secure individual identifying data and promptly inform users of data breaches that involve sensitive information;
Duty of Loyalty  May not use individual identifying data in ways that harm users;
Duty of Confidentiality  Must ensure that the duties of care and loyalty extend to third parties when disclosing, selling, or sharing individual identifying data;
Federal and State Enforcement  A violation of the duties will be treated as a violation of an FTC rule with fine authority. States may also bring civil enforcement actions, but the FTC can intervene.
Rulemaking Authority  FTC is granted rulemaking authority to implement the Act.
 
Klobuchar has been a leader in the fight to protect consumers' private information. In April, she and John Kennedy (R-LA) introduced the Social Media Privacy and Consumer Rights Act, legislation that would protect the privacy of consumers' online data by improving transparency, strengthening consumers' recourse options when a breach of data occurs, and ensuring companies are compliant with privacy policies that protect consumers.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/ranking-member-peterson-passage-farm-bill-conference-report,Ranking Member Peterson on Passage of the Farm Bill Conference Report,2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON (December 12, 2018)  House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Collin Peterson released the following statement today following passage of the House floor of H.R.2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018:
I am very happy to see my colleagues pass the 2018 Farm Bill. As I said in my floor speech, rural America is facing so many challenges and this bill goes a long way toward providing needed certainty to farmers and ranchers. In particular, I am proud of the improvement it makes for our dairy farmers. The bill will provide expanded, affordable coverage options and more flexibility for dairy farmers. It also provides permanent mandatory funding for several of the programs that first got mandatory funding in the 2008 farm bill, when I was chairman.These include the Local Food & Farmers Market Promotion Program, Value-Added Producer Grants, the BFRDP Program, Organic Research, and the Section 2501 Outreach Program. I encourage President Trump to sign the farm bill into law quickly.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/farm-bill-passes-house-heads-president-s-desk,"Farm Bill Passes House, Heads to Presidents Desk",2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation includes Emmer's STRESS Act to combat farmer suicide, provisions to improve dairy risk management tools, and provides funding for livestock disease prevention.
WASHINGTON, DC  Today, following passage of the Conference Report for the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, commonly called the Farm Bill, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement:
Today, Congress put the nation's farmers first. This Farm Bill includes improvements specifically needed for farmers in Minnesota's Sixth District, including better dairy risk management tools, funding to assist beginning farmers, and livestock disease prevention and response. I was proud to cast my vote in support of this legislation,said Congressman Emmer, whose district encompasses areas of rural Minnesota including parts of Stearns, Benton, Wright and Sherburne Counties.
As this legislation heads to the President's desk, I am grateful to see the reauthorization of the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network included. I take heart knowing my colleagues on both sides of the aisle have been supportive of this effort to deliver more mental health treatment to our farmers. They have suffered in silence for far too long,added Emmer.
The STRESS Act language will reauthorize of the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) to give states needed resources to provide mental health services for farmers and ranchers. FRSAN was first authorized in 2008, though it did not receive funding and therefore lapsed. Farmers suffer a rate of suicide several times higher than the normal population. This is an important effort towards restoring our nation's attention to Americans in farming.
Learn more about the STRESS Acthereand read the full legislative texthere.
Read the full legislative text of the Conference Report for the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018here.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-elect-phillips-announces-senior-leadership-team,Rep.-Elect Phillips Announces Senior Leadership Team,2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Dean Phillips,P000616,phillips.house.gov,,,legacy,"Excelsior, MN - Today, Rep.-elect Dean Phillips announced his Congressional office leadership team, which will commence once he is sworn in on January 3, 2019.

Phillips is adopting a dual Chief of Staff organizational structure, with one based in Minnesota's 3rd District and the other in Washington, D.C.

Filling the Chief of Staff position in Minnesota will be Zach Rodvold, Phillips's Campaign Manager, who previously worked in the state office of U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone and served as U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar's State Director from 2007-2009. Rodvold also worked for former House Speaker Paul Thissen and the House DFL Caucus from 2011-2017. 

""I'm thrilled to continue on with Dean and to return to public service in a federal office,"" said Rodvold. ""I look forward to helping build an accessible team whose sole focus will be listening to, learning from and advocating on behalf of the people of the Third District.""

Filling the Chief of Staff position in Washington, DC will be Tim Bertocci, currently Deputy Chief of Staff to Congressman Tim Walz, for whom he's worked since 2013. Prior to that, Bertocci, who is an Army veteran and graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, worked for the State Department and the Department of Defense.

""I have gotten to know Minnesota well through my service with Congressman Walz, and I am excited to be able to work for the people of the Third District starting next year,"" said Bertocci. ""I'm ready to get to work with Dean and the new majority in Congress to make progress on the issues he ran on and the big challenges our country faces.""

Serving as Legislative Director to Rep.-elect Phillips will be Imani Augustus, currently Senior Legislative Assistant and Acting Legislative Director for Congressman Tim Walz. Augustus had previously served as a Staff Assistant, Legislative Correspondent and Legislative Aide in the Walz office, and is active with the Women's Congressional Staff Association and the Capitol Hill Community Service Association.

""It will be an honor to serve as Dean's Legislative Director,"" said Augustus. ""I can't wait to get to work on government reform, tackling rising healthcare costs, addressing climate change and the other broadly-shared priorities of the Third District.""

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=8B838D4E-129D-41F1-AB2A-73DBA406D17D,"Klobuchar, Blunt Reach Final Deal on Bipartisan Bill to Reform Process for Workplace Harassment and Discrimination Claims in Congress",2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation reforms the broken dispute resolution process, protects workers, and holds Members of Congress accountable 
WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO), the Ranking Member and Chair of the Senate Rules Committee, announced that they have reached an agreement on legislation to reform the process to pursue claims of sexual harassment or other workplace discrimination experienced on Capitol Hill. The final text of the bipartisan legislation was agreed upon by leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives and would reform the dispute resolution process, protect workers, increase transparency and hold Members of Congress accountable.
For too long, victims of sexual harassment in Congress have been forced into a process that lacks transparency and accountability, and fails them at a time when they need the most support, Klobuchar said. Our bipartisan, bicameral legislationwhich we expect to pass in the coming dayswill overhaul this broken process, ensure victims can immediately seek justice, and hold Members of Congress accountable. I thank Senator Blunt and leaders in the House and Senate for all the work they have done with me to finalize this critical legislation.
This bipartisan, bicameral agreement sends a clear message that harassment in any form will not be tolerated by the Congress, Blunt said. The reforms in this agreement will, most importantly, strengthen protections for victims and hold Members of Congress personally accountable for their misconduct. I appreciate Senator Klobuchar's partnership, and the efforts of leaders in the House and Senate, who have come together to get this done. I urge all of our colleagues to get this legislation to the president's desk.
This legislation would change the way harassment claims are handled in Congress by eliminating the required 30-day counseling period, the required 30-day mediation phase, and the 30-day cooling off period. The legislation would allow a victim to immediately pursue an administrative hearing or file a civil action. It would also hold Members of Congress personally liable by requiring them to reimburse the Treasury for awards and settlements stemming from acts of harassment they personally commit, including Members who leave office.
In addition, the legislation would:
 
Hold Members of Congress personally liable by pay for awards and settlements stemming from acts of harassment and related retaliation they personally commit, including Members who leave office.
Eliminate the required 30-day counseling period, the required 30-day mediation phase, and the 30-day cooling off period.
Provide employees with access to a dedicated advocate who will provide consultation and assistance regarding proceedings before the Office of Compliance.
Require public reporting of awards and settlements, including identifying if a Member of Congress was personally liable.
Require awards or settlements to be automatically referred to the Committee on Ethics for claims against Members of Congress and senior staff.
Extend protections under the Congressional Accountability Act to unpaid staff, including interns, detailees and fellows, and other Legislative Branch staff.
Provide opportunities for employees to work remotely or request paid leave without fear of retribution.
Require a survey of staff each Congress to examine the workplace culture on Capitol Hill.
Provide additional support for state, district and regional Legislative Branch staff to ensure they have the same access to Office of Compliance resources, training opportunities, guidance and advice as Washington D.C. based legislative branch workers.
Require the Office of Compliance to establish an electronic system for taking in claims by victims, tracking those claims throughout the process, and generating reports on various details of claims.
 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/us-sens-tina-smith-jerry-moran-introduce-bipartisan-bill-make-life-saving-oral-cancer,"U.S. Sens. Tina Smith, Jerry Moran Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Make  Life-saving Oral Cancer Medications More Affordable",2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Sens. Tina Smith, Jerry Moran Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Make
Life-saving Oral Cancer Medications More Affordable  Senators' Legislation Would Ensure Oral Cancer Drugs are Covered in Same Way as Traditional IV Chemotherapy
WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/12/18]Today, U.S. Sens. Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) introduced legislationalso supported by Sens. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.)to make sure oral cancer drugs are covered in the same way as traditional (IV) chemotherapy to bring down costs for Americans suffering from cancer. Sens. Smith and Moran said their bipartisan bill, the Cancer Drug Parity Act, is needed to make sure that health insurance plans fairly cover advances in oral cancer medication.
Currently, over 40 statesincluding both Minnesota and Kansasand the District of Columbia have passed oral parity laws that stop insurers from charging more for prescribed oral cancer medicine than IV chemotherapy. The Cancer Drug Parity Actwould build on this work by expanding these protections at the federal level.
Advances in cancer treatment have made it possible for Americans to get life-saving oral cancer medication. This means people can now take the life-saving medicine they need without having to leave their homes, and in a far less intrusive way than traditional IV chemotherapy, said Sen. Smith. But since oral cancer medications are self-administered, many people are having to shell out more dollars because this medication isn't covered the same way as IV treatments. My bipartisan bill with Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas would put a stop to charging more for oral cancer drugs because we should be doing all we can to make life-saving cancer treatment more affordable for all Americans.
Individuals suffering from cancer deserve treatment options available through their insurance, said Sen. Moran. As the number of oral cancer drugs increase each year, patients ought to be able to immediately benefit from these medical advancements. This sensible legislation would keep health insurance on pace with the latest cancer treatments, build on laws already implemented in 43 states and expand cancer coverage for oral drugs for 100 million individuals covered through group and individual health plans. I am a strong supporter of medical research to find new treatments, therapies and cures, and I am working to make certain these exciting new treatments can reach cancer patients and ultimately save lives.
The Cancer Drug Parity Act is supported by more than 30 organizations, including The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Science is dramatically changing the way cancer is treated. Even with these breakthroughs, too many cancer patients can't access their treatments because insurance rules have not kept pace with innovation, said Louis J. DeGennaro, Ph.D., President and CEO of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The Cancer Drug Parity Act will eliminate the financial barriers that stand between many cancer patients and the breakthrough treatments that could save their lives. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society applauds Senator Smith and Senator Moran for their leadership on behalf of cancer patients and stands ready to work with Congress to move this important bill forward.
The Cancer Drug Parity Act would:
 Prevent insurers from covering oral and self-administered medicines at different cost-sharing rates than IV chemotherapy
Not mandate that healthcare plans provide chemotherapy coverage, but rather only apply to plans already covering chemotherapy
 You can access a summary of the bill here and full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-sens-tina-smith-jerry-moran-introduce-bipartisan-bill-make-life-saving-oral-cancer-medications,"U.S. Sens. Tina Smith, Jerry Moran Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Make Life-saving Oral Cancer Medications More Affordable",2018-12-12,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/12/18]—Today, U.S. Sens. Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) introduced legislation—also supported by Sens. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.)—to make sure oral cancer drugs are covered in the same way as traditional (IV) chemotherapy to bring down costs for Americans suffering from cancer. Sens. Smith and Moran said their bipartisan bill, the Cancer Drug Parity Act, is needed to make sure that health insurance plans fairly cover advances in oral cancer medication.

Currently, over 40 states—including both Minnesota and Kansas—and the District of Columbia have passed “oral parity” laws that stop insurers from charging more for prescribed oral cancer medicine than IV chemotherapy. The Cancer Drug Parity Actwould build on this work by expanding these protections at the federal level.

“Advances in cancer treatment have made it possible for Americans to get life-saving oral cancer medication. This means people can now take the life-saving medicine they need without having to leave their homes, and in a far less intrusive way than traditional IV chemotherapy,” said Sen. Smith. “But since oral cancer medications are self-administered, many people are having to shell out more dollars because this medication isn’t covered the same way as IV treatments. My bipartisan bill with Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas would put a stop to charging more for oral cancer drugs because we should be doing all we can to make life-saving cancer treatment more affordable for all Americans.”

“Individuals suffering from cancer deserve treatment options available through their insurance,” said Sen. Moran. “As the number of oral cancer drugs increase each year, patients ought to be able to immediately benefit from these medical advancements. This sensible legislation would keep health insurance on pace with the latest cancer treatments, build on laws already implemented in 43 states and expand cancer coverage for oral drugs for 100 million individuals covered through group and individual health plans. I am a strong supporter of medical research to find new treatments, therapies and cures, and I am working to make certain these exciting new treatments can reach cancer patients and ultimately save lives.”

The Cancer Drug Parity Act is supported by more than 30 organizations, including The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

“Science is dramatically changing the way cancer is treated. Even with these breakthroughs, too many cancer patients can’t access their treatments because insurance rules have not kept pace with innovation,” said Louis J. DeGennaro, Ph.D., President and CEO of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. “The Cancer Drug Parity Act will eliminate the financial barriers that stand between many cancer patients and the breakthrough treatments that could save their lives. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society applauds Senator Smith and Senator Moran for their leadership on behalf of cancer patients and stands ready to work with Congress to move this important bill forward.”

The Cancer Drug Parity Act would:

Prevent insurers from covering oral and self-administered medicines at different cost-sharing rates than IV chemotherapy

Not mandate that healthcare plans provide chemotherapy coverage, but rather only apply to plans already covering chemotherapy

You can access a summary of the bill here and full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/senate-and-house-ag-committee-leaders-release-farm-bill-conference-report,Senate and House Ag Committee Leaders Release Farm Bill Conference Report,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.  Agriculture Committee Chairmen Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kan., and Rep. K. Michael Conaway, R-Texas, and Ranking Members Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., and Rep. Collin Peterson, D-Minn., today released the text of the bipartisan, bicameral 2018 Farm Bill conference report.
The 2018 Farm Bill is our opportunity to make the American food and agriculture systems work more efficiently. I'm pleased to say we have done just that in this conference report, said Chairman Roberts. We started this journey nearly two years ago. Since then, the Senate Agriculture Committee has held dozens of hearings, listened to more than 90 witnesses, and received thousands of public comments. As promised, this farm bill provides much needed certainty and predictability for all producers  of all crops  across all regions across the country. I thank my counterparts in the Senate and House for coming to  and staying at  the table to reach a bipartisan, bicameral agreement for rural America.
America's farmers and ranchers are weathering the fifth year of severe recession, so passing a farm bill this week that strengthens the farm safety net is vitally important, said Chairman Conaway. I am grateful to the President, Secretary Perdue and my leadership for standing fast for the hard-working farm and ranch families that clothe and feed us. I also appreciate the members of the conference committee for bringing this process one step closer to completion.
By working across the aisle, we overcame many differences to deliver a strong, bipartisan farm bill for our farmers, families, and rural communities, said Ranking Member Stabenow. The 2018 Farm Bill is a good bill for our farmers and everyone who eats. Working together, we continued to expand the diversity of our agricultural economy, maintained a strong food and farm safety net, created new opportunities in our small towns and rural communities, and made significant investments in land and water conservation. Now is not the time to rest on our laurels  it's time to get the bill across the finish line as soon as possible. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.
This bill is a strong start to addressing the issues our producers are facing right now, particularly our dairy farmers, said Ranking Member Peterson. The bill's new provisions will offer more flexible coverage for lower cost when dairy farmers need it most, and provide producers more tools to manage their risk. It also invests $300 million in the prevention and response for animal pests and disease. More broadly, the bill invests in research, outreach to beginning & underserved producers, local and organic food production, bioenergy, and access to new markets. It also addresses broadband, farm stress and mental health issues, and the opioid epidemic in rural areas. It's the product of strong bipartisan work in both the House and the Senate, and it's something I'm proud to encourage folks to vote for.
Click here to read the text of the report.
The Farm Bill Conference Committee held a public hearing on Sept. 5. Agriculture Committee leaders announced a deal on Nov. 29.
The conference report was signed by the Senate and House Farm Bill conferees and will be considered with a vote in both chambers.
Press Contacts:
Sarah Little(Roberts): 202-236-8678  
	Rachel Millard(Conaway): 202-225-2171  
	Jess McCarron(Stabenow): 202-224-1437  
	Patrick Delaney(Peterson): 202-225-1564",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-1272018,Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/7/2018,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Crookston in 1905  Polk County
Dear Friends,
This week, Americans mourned the passing of former President George H.W. Bush. His dedication to service and the class he demonstrated during difficult times will be fondly remembered. In Minnesota, I joined with veterans and community leaders in Montevideo to celebrate the contribution of late-veteran Steven Williams, who left $2.8 million to help build a new veterans home in town. At the event, I shared my intent to fight for federal funding for this veterans home during the 116th Congress. I also met with agriculture producers and press to share updates on the timing and key provisions included in the Farm Bill for Minnesota. The House is expected to vote on the Farm Bill Conference Report next week, and I expect strong bipartisan support to take it through to the President's desk.
Sincerely,
Congressman Collin C. Peterson  Minnesota 7th District
 Serving the 7th 
 Underpaid GI Bill Benefits 
Last week, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced to Congress that it will not reimburse student veterans who were underpaid due to computer issues at the agency. In response to this news, my office is working to make sure my constituents receive the education benefits they earned. Since last week, I have helped two student veterans receive reimbursements in their benefits. If you received lower than usual education benefits from the VA, please reach out to my district staffer Meg Louwagie at Meg.Louwagie@mail.house.gov.
Separately, my office had several productive discussions with the Fargo VA this week which resulted in the continuation of a successful PTSD management program. According to several veterans from the 7th District, programs like these are one of the most critical components of mental healthcare. As always, I encourage veterans and Veterans Service Organizations to use my office as a resource in the event that future healthcare concerns arise.
 Donation Announced for Montevideo Veterans Home Project 
On Wednesday, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs and partners hosted a press conference to announce a $2.8 million donation to support the proposed veterans home project in Montevideo. The details of the donation, made by late-veteran Steven Williams, were announced by his brother James Williams. These funds will support the construction of the planned 72-bed facility that hopes to break ground in autumn of 2019. I attended this event to offer my support for the project. I will be advocating for federal funding matches to construct new veterans homes in Montevideo and Bemidji. I wish to express my gratitude to Mr. Steven Williams and his family for this generous gift to our veterans.
 Talking Farm Bill in Moorhead and South St. Paul 
This week, I held two meetings with state farm groups and agribusiness in Moorhead and South St. Paul to talk about the Farm Bill. I told them that we are very close to a final deal and I expect that we will have the bill filed early next week. We discussed the bill's provisions for dairy producers, who have been particularly hurt by the depressed farm economy. We also talked about changes to commodity programs, the conservation title, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Looking ahead to next week, I anticipate the bill will have broad bipartisan support and we'll finally be able to get this done and on to President Trump's desk to become law.
 Sugarbeet Growers Meet in Fargo 
The Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative, American Crystal Sugar, and the Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association held their annual meetings in Fargo this week to discuss the 2018 harvest and their outlooks for 2019. I gave the groups an update on sugar provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill and the work that remains to enact the 5-year bill. Sugar is an important crop for our part of the country and I will continue to support the Farm Bill Sugar Program that ensures Americans will always have a reliable source of sugar products. Cold temperatures delayed harvests and caused some growers to lose portions of their crop this year. Congress should support sugar producers by enacting the 2018 Farm Bill and moving to resolve trade disputes with Canada and Mexico.
 Former President George H. W. Bush: 1924  2018 
On Thursday, December 6th, former President George H.W. Bush was laid to rest in Houston, Texas. This week, I joined a resolution that will be formally introduced in the coming days to honor his memory and service to the American people. He was a statesman, a patriot, and a family man. I admired President George H.W. Bush for the civility he displayed while he served his country. After President Bush's unsuccessful reelection bid in 1992, he left the following note for the new President in the Oval Office which speaks to his character:
The Corporation for National & Community Service honors the late-President's legacy of service and hopes you will honor him by pledging time to volunteer in your community. Click here to learn more about President George H.W. Bush's legacy of service, and pledge to volunteer in honor of the example he set for us all.
 Todd County Farm Bureau 
  Roger Zastrow, Todd County Farm Bureau; Minnesota State Representative John Poston; Delvin Durheim, Todd County Farm Bureau and my staff aide Grant Herfindahl
My staff aide Grant Herfindahl attended a Todd County Farm Bureau meeting in Browerville last Saturday. Bad weather prevented me from attending in person, so I spoke to the group over the phone about the progress that is being made to pass the Farm Bill. One of my top priorities for this farm bill is adding provisions to stem the loss of small dairy farms in my district. Hard-working dairy farmers need and deserve a better price insurance program than the Margin Protection Program (MPP) currently provides and new provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill will rework programs that help small and medium sized dairies. I also answered questions on topics including as suicide and opioid addiction, immigration reform, and Amish buggy safety.
 Governor-Elect Tim Walz Visits Hallock 
My staff attended Governor-elect Tim Walz's public listening session at Far North Distillery near Hallock this week. The participants had a range of issues to discuss related to agriculture.I look forward to working with my former colleague in addressing some of those issues in the new Farm Bill.
 Northwest Regional Development Commission Meeting 
The Northwest Regional Development Commission hosted its annual meeting in East Grand Forks this week. My staff heard the Commission talk about their need to expand their senior assistance programs as rural populations age. This commission developed programs that service 21 Minnesota counties from Hallock to Hancock. For more information on the Commission's programs for seniors, or to see if they serve your community, call 1-800-333-2433.
 Highway 2 West Manufacturers 
My staff aide LeRoy Stumpf attended the Highway 2 West Manufacturers meeting hosted by Textron Specialized Vehicles / Arctic Cat in Thief River Falls. David Towley from Bemidji State University discussed ways to develop a culture of safety leadership, and the other presentation was about changing the perception of manufacturing. Folks discussed ideas to encourage an interest in manufacturing because only 3% of our youth claim to see their future in manufacturing.
 Newsstand 
 Agricultural Trade Projections for 2019 
According to the USDA's Economic Research Service, the U.S. consistently sells more farm goods than it purchases, but the outlook for 2019 indicates what could be the smallest surplus since 2007. The value of exports has increased since 2016, but the value of imports has risen at a slightly faster rate, leading to a declining trade balance. This is further compounded in Fiscal Year 2019 by significant declines in projected exports to China.
Click here to read more about USDA's trade projections for 2019.
 This Week in American History 
On December 3rd, 1862, Charles A. Pillsbury was born in New Hampshire. After moving to Minneapolis in 1869, he learned the flour-milling business and helped introduce roller mills that could crush Minnesota's spring wheat into high-grade bread flour. Upon his death in 1899, the Pillsbury-Washburn Flour Mills Company was the largest in the world.
 What's the Story? 
SunOpta is a global company which has sunflower facilities in Breckenridge, operations in Alexandria and Crookston, and has their U.S. headquarters in Edina. SunOpta works with 2,500 farmers and owns and operates more than 30 facilities in North America. The company specializes in sourcing, processing, and packaging natural and organic food products and handling the process from seed through packaged products. I have a package of SunOpta sunflower seeds in my Washington D.C. office.
  Larry and Anne Halvorson, Tom and Gretchen Reeves, and German Exchange Students from the 7th, Jakob Noll, Nadja Straub and Paul Willers toured the U.S. Capitol with my office",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/western-caucus-applauds-epa-and-trump-admins-action-reverse-job-killing,Western Caucus Applauds EPA and Trump Admin's Action To Reverse Job-Killing WOTUS Rule,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, members of the Congressional Western Caucus commended the EPA's official repeal of WOTUS:
	Chairman Paul Gosar (AZ-04): ""Like a villain in Scooby Doo, the past Administration almost got away with an unparalleled expansion of Federal power. The WOTUS land and water-grab rule proposed by the Obama Administration was one of the greatest regulatory threats to the West and rural communities. Fortunately, this legally-dubious effort was unmasked for what it was by the Supreme Court and this Administration. I'm happy to see some sanity restored to Clean Water Act implementation. Thank you Acting Administrator Wheeler and President Trump for taking the lead and crafting a definition that adheres to the original law, promotes extremely clean and safe waterways, and remains Federalist in its nature."" Rep. Ken Calvert (CA-42): ""The Clean Water Act is an essential law that has made a tremendous impact protecting and improving the quality of one of our most precious resources. The updated WOTUS rule will help ensure our federal resource agencies are able to focus their efforts on our most significant waterways. It will also help eliminate the use of the Clean Water Act as a tool by serial litigants and extreme environmentalists to attack private property rights."" Executive Vice Chairman Scott Tipton (CO-03): ""The Obama Administration's Waters of the United States Rule (WOTUS) was one of the most onerous federal water and land grabs in this nation's history, usurping long-held state water law, threatening access to private water rights and jeopardizing the success of the economy. The damaging impact of WOTUS cannot be disregarded, so the EPA's proposed new rule is welcome news. It is high time that we provide certainty to America's farmers, ranchers and landowners, whose livelihoods rely on water."" Vice Chairman for Indian Affairs and Oceans Don Young (AK-At Large): ""The Obama-era WOTUS rule is a shining example of federal overreach. I'm pleased to see Administrator Wheeler take action in implementing President Trump's promise to overturn this shortsighted rule. I will continue to work with this administration to ensure state and local governments are able to effectively manage their waters without the unnecessary and inconsistent oversight of the federal government."" Chief Rules Officer Dan Newhouse (WA-04): ""I applaud the EPA's decision to repeal the burdensome WOTUS rule and give clarification to land owners, farmers, and ranchers across the country. The Obama Administration's WOTUS rule gave the federal government unprecedented power to expansively interpret the definition of a navigable waterway.' I know farmers and ranchers in Central Washington will continue to strive to be good stewards of their land and the environment, and the Trump Administration's newly-defined rule will finally give them the certainty they deserve."" Chief Regulatory Reform Officer Andy Biggs (AZ-05): ""I support Acting Administrator Wheeler's efforts to change course from the unconstitutional Obama-era WOTUS rule. This rule is a blatant attack on property rights and is an expansion of government bureaucracy. I am hopeful that this new administrative action will bring much-needed relief to farmers, ranchers, and minors across the West. I continue to call on Congress to codify the administration's positive steps."" Rep. Alex Mooney (WV-02): ""Replacing the Obama-era Waters of the United States rule is another example of President Donald Trump fulfilling the promises he made to all Americans. The previous rule represented the very worst of federal government overreach by regulating any puddle or trickle of water such as my constituent Lois Alt in Hardy County, West Virginia. This rule hindered farmers, land owners and communities across West Virginia. I applaud the Trump Administration for crafting a rule that respects private property rights and gives states flexibility in managing water within their borders.""
	Rep. Ron Estes (KS-04): ""The Trump administration's new WOTUS Rule is a win for farmers and ranchers across Kansas and our nation. By removing Obama-era regulations and providing needed certainty to the application of the Clean Water Act, this rule gives power back to states and farmers on how best to protect the environment while strengthening our economy. I am thankful the EPA and the U.S. Army listened to stakeholders in crafting this rule and look forward to its implementation.""
	Rep. Pete Olson (TX-22): ""The proposed changes to Waters of the United States by the EPA and the Department of the Army are the right call. These much needed improvements return power to the states and the people, and limit the intrusive Federal overreach the original proposal created. I applaud this decision that brings common sense back to water use decisions for local governments, farmers and the people.""
	Rep. Tom McClintock (CA-04): ""The Obama Waters of the United States Rule' that extended EPA control over all waterways in direct contravention of the Clean Waters Act was unwise as policy and unconstitutional as law. The new rule that replaces it moves us back to common sense and constitutional limits.""
	Rep. Tom Emmer (MN-06): ""I applaud the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers for their proposed WOTUS rule. Our nation's farmers, ranchers and land owners across the country deserve clarity on where the Clean Water Act applies, and more importantly where it does not. Like all Minnesotans, I believe that we need to be good stewards of our land and waterways, and this new rule will accomplish just that.""
	Rep. Glenn GT' Thompson (PA-05): The Obama Administration's Waters of the United States rule was an unprecedented land grab that expanded the reach of the Clean Water Act far beyond Congressional intent. Farmers, ranchers and those who live off the land deserve certainty in how the law is administered, yet the WOTUS proposal did the complete opposite and only added more confusion. Uncertainty has governed the lives of farmers and ranchers for too long, and I fully support President Trump's efforts to truly clarify the Clean Water Act. Rep. Duncan Hunter (CA-50): ""It had long been the goal of those of us who seek to improve and protect the private property rights of all Americans to clearly define the regulatory definition of 'waters of the United States.' With the help and support of a President who has committed his administration toward the goal of limiting government overreach, private homeowners, farmers and ranchers will have peace of mind on their own property, knowing they can move forward with simple projects that in years before would have required months of waiting for a federal permit and thousands of dollars spent on legal professionals."" Rep. Rick Crawford (AR-01): ""This provision is a broad government overreach that confuses our farmers, ranchers, and small business owners while taking away an individual's ability to make decisions regarding their own property. I look forward to this new rule that will curtail the current regulation that views a ditch as equivalent to a major waterway and digresses from Congressional intent. This common-sense reform will relieve our agriculture producers from Obama-era overly burdensome requirements."" Rep. Debbie Lesko (AZ-08):""I applaud the EPA and the Trump Administration for taking action to end the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule and restore power to Arizona's farmers, ranchers, and landowners. This land and water grabbing rule created under the Obama Administration is a prime example of a federal overreach placing unnecessary burdens on states and property owners. It's time for the onerous WOTUS rule to be repealed once and for all. Rep. Markwayne Mullin (OK-02):The Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule has been detrimental to our country's farmers and ranchers since the day it was put in place by the Obama Administration. The federal government doesn't belong regulating every creek, ditch, and stream.This proposed replacement rule from the Trump Administration gives farmers, ranchers, and small business owners the power to take care of their backyards without the unnecessary red tape they face now. I applaud the Trump Administration for the proposed rule. Rep. Garret Graves (LA-06):""The 2015 rule was an unconstitutional expansion of federal power that used bureaucrat-speak to strip landowners of their rights and local governments of their ability to manage waters within their borders. This new approach is the product of doing it the right way  openly, with the input of the American people. The new rule respects the rights of private property owners and the sovereignty of states, right-sizes the federal government's role in enforcement and provides clarity where there was confusion. Instead of forcing a top-down, one-size-fits-all mandate, it recognizes that the issues on the ground in places like Arizona are fundamentally different than in places like Louisiana and gives states the flexibility to manage those differences. Most importantly, it doesn't compromise the goal: preventing pollution, ensuring clean water and protecting wetlands."" Rep.MikeJohnson (LA-04):""Regulating back yard ditches and mud puddles does nothing to ensure Americans' access to safe, clean and reliable water. It does, however, far exceed the powers granted to the federal government. Thankfully, the Trump administration's new plan clearly defines what is, and more importantly, what is not, subject to the Clean Water Act. Farmers and ranchers all across the U.S. can rest easy knowing their privacy and their land will be protected from government encroachment. Rep. Greg Gianforte, MT-AL:President Obama's Waters of the U.S. mandate further empowers federal bureaucrats in Washington and threatens our Montana way of life, particularly for our farmers and ranchers. Today's announcement from the Trump administration seeks to roll back federal overreach, clarify the federal government's jurisdiction, and return power to states and tribes to manage their waters. The administration's proposal will reduce uncertainty and help Montana's farmers and ranchers. Rep. Jim Banks (IN-03):Our nation's farmers and landowners have spent millions fighting the overreach of the 2015 Obama-era rule. The Trump Administration is right to narrow the scope, delivering much needed clarification on the definition and relief from bureaucracy run amok. Rep. Doug Lamborn (CO-05): The Obama-era WOTUS Rule was an unnecessarily overreach by EPA, which hampered growth in communities across America. It expanded the EPA's jurisdiction, leading to burdensome red tape for individuals and bureaucratic control over drainage diches, agricultural ponds, and isolated wetlands. The farmers, builders, and landowners in this country deserve freedom from burdensome and ambiguous federal regulations and flawed rules. I believe each state reserves the right to determine the best land management for itself. I'm pleased the EPA repealed and replaced WOTUS with reasonable regulatory reforms that complement existing state and tribal regulations and programs. I'm confident the benefits will be reaped for years to come. Rep. Doug LaMalfa (CA-01): After listening to those directly impacted by one of the previous Administration's most harmful rules, the EPA is replacing WOTUS with something that actually makes sense for land and business owners. Instead of attempting to needlessly regulate every puddle, ditch, and furrow in America, the new rule will focus on bodies of water and wetlands that are physically and meaningfully connected to other bodies of jurisdictional water. Now, those driving our economy will spend less time and money on land-use decisions and litigation and more time on running their business. States will finally have a clear definition of where federal jurisdiction ends and begins, as well as the ability to properly manage their own water. WOTUS was nothing short of a job-killing Washington power grab, and I'm glad to see it replaced with something that works. Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-05):I applaud the Trump Administration, the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), and the Department of the Army for their committed efforts to reigning in the overreaching Obama-era definition of 'Waters of the United States' commonly known as WOTUS. We need clarity, predictability, and consistency. The Trump Administration has done just that by proposing a new rule that clearly lays out when federal jurisdiction will apply to WOTUS under the Clean Water Act. This new ruling will allow for federal oversight to be balanced with state authority to regulate their waters. This clearly defined partnership will allow for navigable waters to be regulated appropriately, while avoiding the negative impacts of federal overreach on farmers and ranchers, that is currently occurring. I look forward to supporting this new rule and working with the Trump Administration to ensure implementation of this new definition. This clearly defined partnership will allow for navigable waters to be regulated appropriately, while avoiding the negative impacts of federal overreach on farmers and ranchers, that is currently occurring. I look forward to supporting this new rule and working with the Trump Administration to ensure implementation of this new definition. Rep. Roger Marshall (KS-01):""The Trump Administration deserves accolades from rural America for their continued actions torepeal the misguided Waters of the United States rule. As Kansans know entirely too well, the Obama WOTUS rule dramatically expanded the reach of the federal government with minimal improvement in water quality. Today's announcement serves as a tremendous relief to landowners and farmers. This is yet another exciting step in fulfillingthis Administration and Congress' promise to return government to its proper role."" Rep. Bob Gibbs (OH-07):I applaud President Trump's efforts to reverse the power grab attempted by the Obama Administration. It is clear enforcement of the Clean Water Act must be a collaborative effort between the federal and state government. This is an issue I've been fighting for several years, working to make sure our agriculture community, homebuilders, private property advocates, and local governments are given a clear set of jurisdictional rules. We can protect the environment, encourage economic growth, and safeguard private property rights without unnecessarily expanding federal jurisdiction. This WOTUS rule does that while providing the certainty our nation's farmers and ranchers need.
	Rep. Ralph Abraham (LA-05):Obama's WOTUS simply went too far  a puddle of water that might run into a ditch that then might run into a stream or river is by no means a navigable waterway and should not be treated as such. I'm still reviewing the new rule, but I'm pleased with what I've seen so far. We all want clean water, and we can achieve that without handing over our land rights to the EPA.
	  Background:
	Courtesy of the Environmental Protection Agency
	Today, December 11, 2018, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Army (Army) proposed a revised definition of waters of the United States, which would delineate the scope of federal regulatory authority under the Clean Water Act in a clear and understandable way.
	The agencies are concerned that the previous administration's 2015 Rule defining waters of the United States may have greatly expanded Washington's control over local land use decisions. The agencies' new proposal respects the constitutional and statutory limits of federal government to regulate navigable water under the Clean Water Act and gives states and tribes more flexibility to determine how best to manage waters within their borders. The agencies' new proposed definition will fulfill President Trump's commitment to end this federal overreach. It ends year of uncertainty over where federal jurisdiction begins and ends. It is clear and easy to understand. It will help landowners understand whether a project on his or her property will require a federal permit or not, without spending tens of thousands of dollars on engineering and legal professionals. This certainty and clarity will save Americans time and money while accelerating infrastructure projects and economic development.
	Right now, because of litigation, the 2015 waters of the United States rule is in effect in 22 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories; and the previous regulations, issued in the 1980s, are in effect in the remaining 28 states. This inconsistent regulatory patchwork creates uncertainty and hinders projects that can benefit both the environment and the economy. The proposed definition would establish national consistency and would rebalance the relationship between the federal government and states in managing land and water resources. States already have their own regulations for waters within their borders, regardless of whether they are federally regulated as waters of the United States. The agencies' new proposal will eliminate the time-consuming and uncertain process of determining whether a significant nexus exists between a water and a downstream traditional navigable water as directed under the agencies' 2008 Rapanos Guidance or whether a water has a significant nexus to a traditional navigable water, interstate water or territorial sea as codified in the agencies' 2015 Rule defining waters of the United States. EPA and the Army listened to those directly impacted by the regulations and are proposing a definition that includes the following key aspects:
	 Excludes ephemeral streams and related features.
		Covers only adjacent wetlands that are physically and meaningfully connected to other jurisdictional waters.
		Cuts most ditches from unnecessary federal regulation.
		Eliminates the use of subjective tests to determine jurisdiction over individual waters.
		Retains exclusions for groundwater, prior converted cropland, stormwater control systems, some wastewater recycling structures, groundwater recharge basins, and waste treatment systems from federal Clean Water Act regulation.
		Regulates perennial and intermittent tributaries to traditional navigable waters.
	   
		The agencies will take comment on the proposal for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. The agencies will also hold an informational webcast on January 10, 2019, and will host a public hearing on the proposed rule in Kansas City, KS, on January 23, 2019. Additional information on both engagements is available at https://www.epa.gov/wotus-rule. Comments on the proposal should be identified by Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2018-0149 and may be submitted online. Go to https://www.regulations.gov
	Courtesy of the Congressional Western Caucus
	One of the Western Caucus' main priorities is repealing the Obama Administration's Water of the United States (WOTUS) rule, which was finalized by former EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy in 2015.
	On March 25, 2014, the EPA and the Corps of Engineers released a proposed rule that would assert Clean Water Act jurisdiction over nearly all areas with even the slightest of connections to water resources, including man-made conveyances. Specifically, this WOTUS Rule attempted to expand agency control over 60% of our country's streams and millions of acres of wetlands that were previously non-jurisdictional. The Obama Administration tried to make the case that waters of the United States refers not just to permanent bodies of navigable water, but to far smaller bodies of water including those that are tiny, seasonal or even ones that do not connect up with larger water systems. This was an astounding departure from longstanding interpretation of the Clean Water Act that expanded federal power to reach into every nook and cranny of our nation's waterways under a flimsy Commerce Clause argument. Family farmers were kept awake at night, worried that rains wouldn't let up before turning their puddles into regulated ponds and running them out of business in the process. Recreational water and marsh users were rightfully wary that Federal regulators would invade their turf and suddenly declare their sport of choice too harmful on the waterway. Developers preemptively pulled out of projects deemed at high risk of falling under federal environmental jurisdiction  all because the Feds may declare a nearby ditch jurisdictional. And when they do declare jurisdiction, it's not just water under the bridge. Individual Clean Water Act permits have taken an average of 788 days to process and $271,596 on the part of the applicant; fines and criminal liability await those who skirt these requirements. Lives and livelihoods are at stake.
	WOTUS negatively impacts states throughout the country by impeding upon state's rights, encroaching on private lands, and violating the civil liberties of many Americans. On 05/21/2018, Western Caucus Member Jim Banks (IN-03) introduced an amendment to the Farm Bill that would repeal WOTUS. It passed the House with a bipartisan vote of 238-173 and 13 Democrats supporting repeal.
	 View Western Caucus Press Releases on WOTUS and the Farm Bill here and here.
		View letter sent to Farm Bill Conferees by Reps. Banks and Walker, Western Caucus Members and 51 total Members urging repeal of WOTUS here.
	   
		On 07/19/2018, H.R. 6147, the Department of the Interior, Environment, Financial Services, and General Government Appropriations Act of 2019 passed the House of Representatives.
	 One of the numerous provisions that the bill contained was a Western Caucus provision to repeal WOTUS.
		View the Western Caucus Press Release here.
	 Last Congress, more than 170 bipartisan members cosponsored legislation calling for WOTUS to be repealed and another 120 bipartisan signed a letter urging repeal. That request can be found here.
	
	###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-appointment-minnesota-s-kaywin-feldman-lead-national-gallery,McCollum Statement on the Appointment of Minnesotas Kaywin Feldman to Lead the National Gallery of Art,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Lead Democrat of the House Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, which provided $166 million in fiscal year 2018 for the operation of the National Gallery of Art, released the following statement on the selection of Kaywin Feldman of the Minneapolis Institute of Art as the institution's incoming director:
Kaywin Feldman is a strong, engaging, and innovative leader at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and I am thrilled she has been selected to become the National Gallery's next director. Her commitment to expanding the audience for historical and contemporary art, along with her passion for rethinking how we access and engage with museum collections will be a tremendous asset for the Gallery.
The selection of a such a talented arts leader from Minnesota for this prominent position is also a tribute to the national and international leadership of the Minneapolis Institute of Art and our state's art community. We Minnesotans know the value of arts and culture in strengthening our economy, enhancing our quality of life, and bringing together diverse communities.
In the next Congress, I am eager to work together with Kaywin from my role on the House Interior Appropriations Subcommittee to advance the National Gallery's mission and sustain strong bipartisan congressional support. My subcommittee provides the funding to maintain and staff the Gallery, and I look forward to working with our new director  the first female director in the Gallery's history  to welcome everyone to this treasure on the National Mall.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=2E6D8E8E-50EC-4AC3-A726-A474852B3BA5,Klobuchar Statement on Senate Passage of Final Farm Bill,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation includes key Klobuchar priorities to invest in renewable energy, promote precision agriculture, create an animal disease vaccine bank and disaster program, and support dairy farmers 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, announced today that the Senate has passed the final 2018 Farm Bill with a strong bipartisan vote of 87-13. The bill includes Klobuchar's provisions that would help provide certainty to farmers and ranchers, create an animal disease vaccine bank and disaster program, and support dairy farmers. The bill also promotes precision agriculture, preserves a strong safety net for farmers, and maintains important access to food assistance for families in need while cracking down on fraud and abuse.
Passing the Farm Bill in the Senate brings us one step closer to signing this bipartisan package into law and giving our farmers and rural communities the certainty and support they need. From providing a safety net for farmers and ranchers, to supporting dairy farmers, to implementing important conservation provisions and promoting precision agriculture, this Farm Bill shows our farmers and ranchers that we stand with them, we support them, and we want them to succeed.
The 2018 Farm Bill includes several of Klobuchar's priorities, including provisions to create an animal disease vaccine bank and disaster response program, provide more coverage and more flexible tools for dairy producers, and protect the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) funding. Klobuchar introduced several bills and amendments to the 2018 Farm Bill that were included in the final text, including provisions to:
 
Invest in renewable energy by continuing mandatory funding levels for programs in the Energy Title;
Permanently authorize and provide mandatory funding for an animal disease and disaster response program and a foot and mouth disease (FMD) vaccine bank to help to adequately address risks to animal health, livestock export markets, and industry economic stability, based on her legislation with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX);
Provide more coverage and more flexible tools for dairy farmers by allowing operations to cover margins up to $9.50 (previously there were no options at $8.50, $9.00, or $9.50) and allowing each dairy operation that participated in the Margin Protection Program in 2014  2017 to receive a repayment of a portion of premiums paid over that time period as either a 50% direct refund or a 75% credit toward future premiums. The repayment provision is based on an amendment that Klobuchar included in the Senate version of the bill.
Promote precision agriculture and target broadband deployment to the nation's farms and ranches, based on Klobuchar and Senator Roger Wicker's (R-MS) Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act;

Increase acreage in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and further expand and incentivize land transitions to beginning farmers, based on Klobuchar and Senator John Thune's (R-SD) Conservation Program Improvement Act; 

Reduce the incentives to convert native sod to crop production by closing a loophole that allows certain non-insured, non-annual crops to circumvent the Sodsaver provision, based on Klobuchar and Senator John Thune's (R-SD) American Prairie Conservation Act;
Increase the caps on Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans to ensure farmers have access to capital and further target loans to beginning farmers and ranchers; and
Encourage cross boundary management of forests to protect water resources, enhance wildlife habitat, restore forest health, and strengthen local economies, based on Klobuchar and Senator Steve Daines' (R-MT) Empowering State Forestry to Improve Forest Health Act.
 
As a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a 2014 Farm Bill Conference Committee member, Klobuchar successfully pushed for key provisions in the last Farm Bill  including measures to support rural development projects, conservation programs, agricultural research, and the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=BC545D57-0859-4DA7-9187-8ADBDB099F5D,Klobuchar: Final Farm Bill Provides Critical Support for Farmers and Rural Communities,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation includes key Klobuchar priorities to invest in renewable energy, promote precision agriculture, create an animal disease vaccine bank and disaster program, and support dairy farmers 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, announced that the 2018 Farm Bill has been finalized and is ready for a vote in Congress. The bill includes Klobuchar's provisions that would help provide certainty to farmers and ranchers, create an animal disease vaccine bank and disaster program, and support dairy farmers. The bill also promotes precision agriculture, preserves a strong safety net for farmers, and maintains important access to food assistance for families in need while cracking down on fraud and abuse.
This Farm Bill will give our farmers and ranchers the certainty and support they need to succeed. This bipartisan achievement includes many of the priorities I fought for like a strong safety net for farmers, important conservation provisions, support for dairy farmers, and protections for our farm animals against disease and our farmers from economic hardship, Klobuchar said. This Farm Bill shows rural America that in a time of global competitiveness and drastic weather events, we stand with them. We must pass this bill immediately for our farmers and ranchers.
The 2018 Farm Bill includes several of Klobuchar's priorities, including provisions to create an animal disease vaccine bank and disaster response program, provide more coverage and more flexible tools for dairy producers, and protect the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) funding. Klobuchar introduced several bills and amendments to the 2018 Farm Bill that were included in the final text, including provisions to:
 
Invest in renewable energy by continuing mandatory funding levels for programs in the Energy Title;
Permanently authorize and provide mandatory funding for an animal disease and disaster response program and a foot and mouth disease (FMD) vaccine bank to help to adequately address risks to animal health, livestock export markets, and industry economic stability, based on her legislation with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX);
Provide more coverage and more flexible tools for dairy farmers by allowing operations to cover margins up to $9.50 (previously there were no options at $8.50, $9.00, or $9.50) and allowing each dairy operation that participated in the Margin Protection Program in 2014  2017 to receive a repayment of a portion of premiums paid over that time period as either a 50% direct refund or a 75% credit toward future premiums. The repayment provision is based on an amendment that Klobuchar included in the Senate version of the bill;
Promote precision agriculture and target broadband deployment to the nation's farms and ranches, based on Klobuchar and Senator Roger Wicker's (R-MS) Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act;

Increase acreage in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and further expand and incentivize land transitions to beginning farmers, based on Klobuchar and Senator John Thune's (R-SD) Conservation Program Improvement Act; 

Reduce the incentives to convert native sod to crop production by closing a loophole that allows certain non-insured, non-annual crops to circumvent the Sodsaver provision, based on Klobuchar and Senator John Thune's (R-SD) American Prairie Conservation Act;
Increase the caps on Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans to ensure farmers have access to capital and further target loans to beginning farmers and ranchers; and,
Encourage cross boundary management of forests to protect water resources, enhance wildlife habitat, restore forest health, and strengthen local economies, based on Klobuchar and Senator Steve Daines' (R-MT) Empowering State Forestry to Improve Forest Health Act.
 
As a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a 2014 Farm Bill Conference Committee member, Klobuchar successfully pushed for key provisions in the last Farm Bill  including measures to support rural development projects, conservation programs, agricultural research, and the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/us-senator-tina-smith-lauds-bipartisan-farm-bill-deal-says-it-gives-farmers-much-needed,U.S. Senator Tina Smith Lauds Bipartisan Farm Bill Deal; Says it Gives Farmers Much-Needed Certainty,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator Tina SmithLaudsBipartisan Farm Bill Deal; Says it Gives FarmersMuch-NeededCertainty  Senator Says Final Farm Bill Contains Provisions She Foughtforto Help Minnesota
WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/11/18]Today,U.S. Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minn.)who took a leading role in making sure Minnesota priorities are included in the 2018 Farm Bill as a member of the Senate Agriculture Committeewas pleased to see House-Senate negotiators finalize the new Farm Bill for farmers, ranchers,foresters,rural communities, and tribes.
Sen. Smith hasrepeatedly called for Congresstopass a strong, bipartisan Farm Bill and send it to the President's desk. You can read the full committee reporthere.
Farmers and rancherswho face enough uncertainty with low farm prices and trade uncertaintiesdeserve the certaintythat thisbipartisanFarm Bill provides,said Sen. Smith.I was proud towork on several provisions in this bill,including funding for broadband expansion,theenergy title, conservation programs, and investments in beginning and Native farmers and ranchers. And I'm glad thatnegotiators from both partieswere able to come together to find common ground and get a strong, bipartisan deal.Now, we need to do what I've been hearing from Minnesota's ag community across the state: pass the Farm Bill as soon as possible.
After Congress approves the final bill text, the five-year Farm Billwillthen be sent to the President to be signed into law.
Sen. Smith fought for and won a spot on the Agriculture Committeewhen she arrived in the Senate in January.In preparation for theFarmBilldebate, she formed her FarmBill Working Group to hear fromfarmers, ranchers, and rural community leadersas well as experts on nutrition, energy, and conservationto make sure Minnesota priorities are included in the legislation.
Sen. Smith, aleader on the Senate Rural Development Subcommittee,authored and championed several measures in the SenateFarmBill, including her legislative roadmap for the energy title of theFarmBill, her provision to expand access to much-needed broadband in rural communities and tribal areas across the country, and a provision to create a U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Health Liaison who will work with other federal health officials to address rural America's unique health care needs. Thebillalso funds Sen. Smith's efforts to help younger and non-traditionalfarmersget started in the business, and it responds to her call to preserve the Sugar Program which supports thousands of jobs across the Red River Valley in Northwest Minnesota.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senator-tina-smith-lauds-bipartisan-farm-bill-deal-says-it-gives-farmers-much-needed-certainty,U.S. Senator Tina Smith Lauds Bipartisan Farm Bill Deal; Says it Gives Farmers Much-Needed Certainty,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/11/18]—Today, U.S. Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minn.)—who took a leading role in making sure Minnesota priorities are included in the 2018 Farm Bill as a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee—was pleased to see House-Senate negotiators finalize the new Farm Bill for farmers, ranchers, foresters, rural communities, and tribes.

Sen. Smith has repeatedly called for Congress to pass a strong, bipartisan Farm Bill and send it to the President’s desk. You can read the full committee report here.

“Farmers and ranchers—who face enough uncertainty with low farm prices and trade uncertainties—deserve the certainty that this bipartisan Farm Bill provides,” said Sen. Smith. “I was proud to work on several provisions in this bill, including funding for broadband expansion, the energy title, conservation programs, and investments in beginning and Native farmers and ranchers. And I’m glad that negotiators from both parties were able to come together to find common ground and get a strong, bipartisan deal. Now, we need to do what I’ve been hearing from Minnesota’s ag community across the state: pass the Farm Bill as soon as possible.”

After Congress approves the final bill text, the five-year Farm Bill will then be sent to the President to be signed into law.

Sen. Smith fought for and won a spot on the Agriculture Committee when she arrived in the Senate in January. In preparation for the Farm Bill debate, she formed her “Farm Bill Working Group” to hear from farmers, ranchers, and rural community leaders—as well as experts on nutrition, energy, and conservation—to make sure Minnesota priorities are included in the legislation.

Sen. Smith, a leader on the Senate Rural Development Subcommittee, authored and championed several measures in the Senate Farm Bill, including her legislative roadmap for the energy title of the Farm Bill, her provision to expand access to much-needed broadband in rural communities and tribal areas across the country, and a provision to create a U.S. Department of Agriculture “Rural Health Liaison” who will work with other federal health officials to address rural America’s unique health care needs. The bill also funds Sen. Smith’s efforts to help younger and non-traditional farmers get started in the business, and it responds to her call to preserve the Sugar Program which supports thousands of jobs across the Red River Valley in Northwest Minnesota.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/klobuchar-smith-emmer-peterson-nolan-mccollum-urge-centers-medicare-and-medicaid,"Klobuchar, Smith, Emmer, Peterson, Nolan, McCollum Urge Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to Reinstate Full Funding for Minnesotas Reinsurance Program",2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced that they will reduce funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program by approximately $100 million for the 2019 plan year
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Representatives Tom Emmer, Collin Peterson, Rick Nolan and Betty McCollum urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to reinstate full funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program. Although CMS indicated that Minnesota should expect $183,930,230 for plan year 2019, the state received a letter on November 30, 2018 stating that Minnesota would receive only $84,757,861 which would be about $100 million less than the anticipated amount. Minnesota's reinsurance program stabilizes the state's insurance marketplace to ensure that more Minnesotans have access to affordable, quality health care.
A sudden notification that CMS would be reducing federal funding by roughly $100 million just one month before the 2019 plan year has created significant uncertainty for our state, and to date CMS has offered no explanation for why this dramatic reduction in funding has occurred, the members wrote. We strongly urge CMS to reconsider its decision and provide a level of pass-through funding for Minnesota that more closely matches the figure provided in the original 2017 agreement.
The full text of the letter can be found below:
Dear Administrator Verma and Secretary Mnuchin:
We write to express our serious concerns in response to the recent decision from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to reduce funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program by approximately $100 million for the 2019 plan year.
On September 22, 2017, CMS approved Minnesota's 1332 State Innovation Waiver to implement a reinsurance program and outlined the funding that Minnesota could expect to receive for plan years 2019 through 2022.Although CMS indicated that Minnesota should expect $183,930,230 for plan year 2019, the state received a letter on November 30 of 2018 stating that Minnesota would receive only $84,757,861  which would be about $100 million less than the anticipated amount.
Minnesota's 1332 waiver was an agreement with the federal government to stabilize the state's insurance marketplace to ensure that more Minnesotans would have access to affordable, quality health care. A sudden notification that CMS would be reducing federal funding by roughly $100 million just one month before the 2019 plan year has created significant uncertainty for our state, and to date CMS has offered no explanation for why this dramatic reduction in funding has occurred.
We strongly urge CMS to reconsider its decision and provide a level of pass-through funding for Minnesota that more closely matches the figure provided in the original 2017 agreement.
We also respectfully request responses to the following questions:
 What were the methods and assumptions used when calculating the pass-through funds for plan year 2019? Please also explain the $100 million discrepancy from the estimated amount for plan year 2019.
Was the effectiveness of Minnesota's reinsurance program in reducing premiums a factor for a reduction in pass-through funds, and if so, to what extent?
What steps can Minnesota take to prepare for future plan years to avoid the uncertainty that stems from pass-through funding that is inconsistent with the estimated figures outlined in the 1332 waiver approval letter?
 Thank you for your attention to this serious and urgent matter.
Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/ranking-member-peterson%E2%80%99s-statement-passing-robert-bergland,Ranking Member Petersons Statement on the Passing of Robert Bergland,2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON (December 9, 2018)  Following the passing of former Secretary of Agriculture Robert Bergland on Sunday, House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Collin Peterson released the following statement:
I am so sorry to hear of Bob Bergland's passing. Bob served the Seventh District of Minnesota exceptionally before taking his farmer's experience and work ethic to USDA to makesure that crop insurance, rural development, conservation and research programs worked better for farmers and ranchers across the country.I was fortunate to have visited with him back in August and am proud to continue in his footsteps in serving the residents of the 7th District.I send my condolences to Helen and the entire Bergland family.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/klobuchar-smith-emmer-peterson-nolan-mccollum-urge-centers-medicare-and,"Klobuchar, Smith, Emmer, Peterson, Nolan, McCollum Urge Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to Reinstate Full Funding for Minnesotas Reinsurance Program",2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Representatives Tom Emmer, Collin Peterson, Rick Nolan and Betty McCollum urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to reinstate full funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program. Although CMS indicated that Minnesota should expect $183,930,230 for plan year 2019, the state received a letter on November 30, 2018 stating that Minnesota would receive only $84,757,861 which would be about $100 million less than the anticipated amount. Minnesota's reinsurance program stabilizes the state's insurance marketplace to ensure that more Minnesotans have access to affordable, quality health care.
A sudden notification that CMS would be reducing federal funding by roughly $100 million just one month before the 2019 plan year has created significant uncertainty for our state, and to date CMS has offered no explanation for why this dramatic reduction in funding has occurred, the members wrote. We strongly urge CMS to reconsider its decision and provide a level of pass-through funding for Minnesota that more closely matches the figure provided in the original 2017 agreement.
The full text of the letter can be found below:
Dear Administrator Verma and Secretary Mnuchin:
We write to express our serious concerns in response to the recent decision from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to reduce funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program by approximately $100 million for the 2019 plan year.
On September 22, 2017, CMS approved Minnesota's 1332 State Innovation Waiver to implement a reinsurance program and outlined the funding that Minnesota could expect to receive for plan years 2019 through 2022.Although CMS indicated that Minnesota should expect $183,930,230 for plan year 2019, the state received a letter on November 30 of 2018 stating that Minnesota would receive only $84,757,861  which would be about $100 million less than the anticipated amount.
Minnesota's 1332 waiver was an agreement with the federal government to stabilize the state's insurance marketplace to ensure that more Minnesotans would have access to affordable, quality health care. A sudden notification that CMS would be reducing federal funding by roughly $100 million just one month before the 2019 plan year has created significant uncertainty for our state, and to date CMS has offered no explanation for why this dramatic reduction in funding has occurred.
We strongly urge CMS to reconsider its decision and provide a level of pass-through funding for Minnesota that more closely matches the figure provided in the original 2017 agreement.
We also respectfully request responses to the following questions:
 What were the methods and assumptions used when calculating the pass-through funds for plan year 2019? Please also explain the $100 million discrepancy from the estimated amount for plan year 2019.
	Was the effectiveness of Minnesota's reinsurance program in reducing premiums a factor for a reduction in pass-through funds, and if so, to what extent?
	What steps can Minnesota take to prepare for future plan years to avoid the uncertainty that stems from pass-through funding that is inconsistent with the estimated figures outlined in the 1332 waiver approval letter?
 Thank you for your attention to this serious and urgent matter.
Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/us-senator-tina-smith-education-department-taking-step-right-direction-teachers-receive,U.S. Senator Tina Smith: Education Department Taking a Step in the  Right Direction for Teachers to Receive Promised Aid,2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Says Educators Can Now Take Steps So They Will Not Be Forced
To Foot Bill for Thousands in Grants Unfairly Converted to Loans 
WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/10/18]Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) released the following statement after the Education Department announced it will be instituting a process to help teachers who have been unfairly forced to repay thousands of dollars after grants they received were later, and often erroneously, converted to loans.
This is a great first step for all the teachers who have been fulfilling the service requirements for the TEACH Grant program, but who had their grants converted into loanswith back interest duebecause of minor paperwork issues related to the overly complicated annual certification process,said. Sen. Smith.This annual paperwork process must be reformed and teachers in high-need schools should not suffer crushing financial consequences due to poor program administration. When I learned that thousands of teachers were having this problem, I urged the Education Department to do right by teachers. I'm glad the Department is listening, and I look forward to working to ensure that the process for reconsideration is meaningful and followed by other changes to improve the program.
The TEACH Grant program promises up-front financial assistance for college students who commit to pursue teaching careers in high-need schools. If students do not fulfill the service requirements of the program, they are liable to pay back the grant money in full with interestbut reports indicated many teachers' grants were being converted to loans erroneously, due to small errors in paperwork or even for seemingly no reason at all. This included over 4,800 TEACH grant-to-loan conversions between 2009 and 2016 for students who've attended college in Minnesota. Sen. Smith repeatedly called for answers and action from Education Secretary Betsy DeVos afterreports fromNPRandThe Washington Postshed light on the scope and severity of the problems.
You can read a letter Sen. Smith led with 18 of her colleagues about the TEACH program in Junehereand a repeated call from Sen. Smith in Septemberhere.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senator-tina-smith-education-department-taking-step-right-direction-teachers-receive-promised,U.S. Senator Tina Smith: Education Department Taking a Step in the Right Direction for Teachers to Receive Promised Aid,2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/10/18]–Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) released the following statement after the Education Department announced it will be instituting a process to help teachers who have been unfairly forced to repay thousands of dollars after grants they received were later, and often erroneously, converted to loans.

“This is a great first step for all the teachers who have been fulfilling the service requirements for the TEACH Grant program, but who had their grants converted into loans—with back interest due—because of minor paperwork issues related to the overly complicated annual certification process,” said. Sen. Smith. “This annual paperwork process must be reformed and teachers in high-need schools should not suffer crushing financial consequences due to poor program administration. When I learned that thousands of teachers were having this problem, I urged the Education Department to do right by teachers. I’m glad the Department is listening, and I look forward to working to ensure that the process for reconsideration is meaningful and followed by other changes to improve the program.”

The TEACH Grant program promises up-front financial assistance for college students who commit to pursue teaching careers in high-need schools. If students do not fulfill the service requirements of the program, they are liable to pay back the grant money in full with interest—but reports indicated many teachers’ grants were being converted to loans erroneously, due to small errors in paperwork or even for seemingly no reason at all. This included over 4,800 TEACH grant-to-loan conversions between 2009 and 2016 for students who’ve attended college in Minnesota. Sen. Smith repeatedly called for answers and action from Education Secretary Betsy DeVos after reports from NPR and The Washington Post shed light on the scope and severity of the problems.

You can read a letter Sen. Smith led with 18 of her colleagues about the TEACH program in June here and a repeated call from Sen. Smith in September here.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=159F002F-2EFB-4087-BE8A-320ECCC45EB5,"Klobuchar, Smith, Emmer, Peterson, Nolan, McCollum Urge Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to Reinstate Full Funding for Minnesota’s Reinsurance Program",2018-12-08,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced that they will reduce funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program by approximately $100 million for the 2019 plan year 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Representatives Tom Emmer, Collin Peterson, Rick Nolan and Betty McCollum urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to reinstate full funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program. Although CMS indicated that Minnesota should expect $183,930,230 for plan year 2019, the state received a letter on November 30, 2018 stating that Minnesota would receive only $84,757,861 which would be about $100 million less than the anticipated amount. Minnesota's reinsurance program stabilizes the state's insurance marketplace to ensure that more Minnesotans have access to affordable, quality health care.
A sudden notification that CMS would be reducing federal funding by roughly $100 million just one month before the 2019 plan year has created significant uncertainty for our state, and to date CMS has offered no explanation for why this dramatic reduction in funding has occurred, the members wrote. We strongly urge CMS to reconsider its decision and provide a level of pass-through funding for Minnesota that more closely matches the figure provided in the original 2017 agreement.
The full text of the letter can be found below:
Dear Administrator Verma and Secretary Mnuchin:
We write to express our serious concerns in response to the recent decision from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to reduce funding for Minnesota's reinsurance program by approximately $100 million for the 2019 plan year.
On September 22, 2017, CMS approved Minnesota's 1332 State Innovation Waiver to implement a reinsurance program and outlined the funding that Minnesota could expect to receive for plan years 2019 through 2022. Although CMS indicated Minnesota should expect $183,930,230 for plan year 2019, the state received a letter on November 30 of 2018 stating that Minnesota should expect only an estimated $84,757,861  about $100 million less than the anticipated amount.
Minnesota's 1332 waiver was an agreement with the federal government to stabilize the state's insurance marketplace to ensure that more Minnesotans would have access to affordable, quality health care. A sudden notification that CMS would be reducing federal funding by roughly $100 million just one month before the 2019 plan year has created significant uncertainty for our state, and to date CMS has offered no explanation for why this dramatic reduction in funding has occurred.
We strongly urge CMS to reconsider its decision and provide a level of pass-through funding for Minnesota that more closely matches the figure provided in the original 2017 agreement.
We also respectfully request responses to the following questions:
 
What were the methods and assumptions used when calculating the pass-through funds for plan year 2019? Please also explain the $100 million discrepancy from the estimated amount for plan year 2019.
Was the effectiveness of Minnesota's reinsurance program in reducing premiums a factor for the recalculation of pass-through funds, and if so, to what extent?
Have you reviewed the reasons for this reduction with the state and provided them an avenue to appeal your calculation? If not, when do you plan to provide this information? And what are the state's options to appeal?
What steps can Minnesota take to prepare for future plan years to avoid the uncertainty that stems from pass-through funding that is inconsistent with the estimated figures outlined in the 1332 waiver approval letter?
 
Thank you for your attention to this serious and urgent matter.                            
Sincerely,
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-announces-over-35-million-grants-and-loans-improve-water-and-wastewater,Peterson announces over $35 million in grants and loans to improve water and wastewater infrastructure in rural Minnesota,2018-12-07,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson (D-Minn.) announced over $35 million for Water and Wastewater Infrastructure improvements in rural Minnesota communities. The funding comes from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program.
Upgrading and investing in local water systems creates jobs while keeping communities healthy, Peterson said. These funds are critical to meeting our rural communities' water treatment needs.
The upgrades will improve the drinking water, storm water drainage, and waste water systems in Redwood, Mahnomen, Douglas, Cottonwood, Big Stone, and Lyon counties.
Details for funding below:
 
Tracy, MN will receive a loan of $8,399,000 and a grant of $4,458,000
Clinton, MN will receive a loan of $4,595,000 and a grant of $2,369,000
Red Rock Rural Water will receive a loan of $1,400,000
Farwell-Kensington Sanitary District will receive a loan of $325,000 and a grant of $1,095,000
Mahnomen, MN will receive a loan of $11,919,000
Revere, MN will receive a loan of $161,000 and a grant of $402,000
 
Congressman Peterson is a strong advocate for the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program which serves small rural communities. In 2017 he led the effort to protect the program which was slated to be eliminated in President Trump's Budget Request.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-members-commemorate-one-year-anniversary-president-donald-trumps,House Members Commemorate One-Year Anniversary of President Donald Trump's Official Recognition of Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Courtesy of Congressman Andy Biggs)
WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, Congressman Andy Biggs and 42 cosponsors introduced a resolution to commemorate the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump's official recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel and the announcement of his intention to relocate the American embassy to Jerusalem. Congressman Biggs, along with many of the cosponsors, released the following statements: Israel is one of the United States' most enduring allies, and President Trump kept a significant promise by recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and announcing his intention to move our embassy to Jerusalem. That embassy was opened in Jerusalem earlier this year. These milestones signify our commitment to our ally. I thank my many colleagues who joined me in this resolution. Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05) I am pleased to be an original cosponsor on this important legislation. This year has marked a restoration of the U.S.-Israel relationship. President Trump's moving of the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem was monumental not because he is the first president to promise this move, but because he is the only president who made good on that promise. I have supported moving the embassy since my start in Congress and am proud to have seen it come to fruition. I want to thank my colleague Rep. Biggs for initiating this great commemoration and for working with me collaboratively on the final bill.  Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) Today, we celebrate the one-year anniversary of President Trump's momentous decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to the recognized capital of Jerusalem. During his campaign, President Trump committed to finally make this move, and I applaud him displaying strong leadership and courageous action in support of one of America's closest allies in the world.  House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (LA-01) My support remains unwavering for President Trump's courageous and just decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. This decision is a profound reflection of the President's commitment to fulfilling his promises and advancing peace in the Middle East.  Congressman Gregg Harper (MS-03) One year ago, President Trump announced his decision torecognize Jerusalem as the unquestionable capital of Israel. The United States was the first to recognize Israel's independence in 1948.ThisMay, we celebrated 70 years of Israeli independence, and in a sign of our support, ceremoniously moved the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem, again becoming the first country to do so. I applaud President Trump's leadership as we continue to reinforce our commitment to our closest friend and ally, Israel, and support her right to defend herself.  Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08) Jerusalem is the rightful capital of Israel. The recognition of this reality continues to build on our two nation's special bond which is why I support Representative Biggs' resolution to commemorate the anniversary of the President's declaration. Our ally has continuously stood by our side, and we should continue to stand by them.  Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) Moving our embassy to Jerusalem, Israel's self-declared, historic, and eternal capital, sent a strong message to the world, that Israel is an ally of the United States and a bulwark of democracy and freedom in the Middle East.  Congressman Ken Buck (CO-04) On the one-year anniversary of President Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, a momentous event, I am proud to co-sponsor this resolution affirming our support for the United States' strongest Middle East ally, a Jewish homeland, and the Israeli people. Although Congress authorized moving the U.S. embassy more than two decades ago, only our current President, fulfilling a promise other presidents have made but broken, had the courage to act. Anti-Semitism and terrorist threats must never deter us from standing up for our principles, including a free and independent Israel with Jerusalem as its capital. In fact, standing up for our principles and supporting our allies is essential to creating peace and stability in the region.  Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) As this resolution memorializes, the relocation of United States Embassy in Jerusalem is further proof that President Trump is keeping his promises to the American people. Seventy years after the official formation of Israel and more than 20 years after the United States Congress voted to recognize Jerusalem as its capital, this fulfilled promise signals strong support for our friend and ally. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (TX-26) I am honored to join my colleagues in recognizing the one-year anniversary of the United States moving our embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalemthe eternal capital. This strong and historic move will forever stand as a message to the rest of the world that the U.S. stands with our Jewish brothers and sisters in the world's only Jewish state.  Congressman Tedd Budd (NC-13) On the one year anniversary, I applaud President Donald Trump for fulfilling his campaign pledge to recognize Jerusalem as the rightful capital of Israel. Under the leadership of President Trump, our relationship with Israel has never been stronger. We must never forget the important role Israel plays in the world and I will continue to be a vocal supporter of our eternal friendship.  Rep. Alex X. Mooney (WV-02) President Trump's decision, one year ago, to recognize Jerusalem for what it actually has been and is the actual capital of Israel, demonstrated great commitment to truth. President Truman had the courage to recognize Israel as an independent nation only minutes after it formed. Since then, we have had eleven Presidents who discussed Jerusalem as the true capital of Israel, but did not recognize it formally. A year ago, our president kept another of his promises made to the American people. This historic decision displayed to the world that the United States will fervently stand with its ally, Israel. I am proud we have a President who courageously did the right thing for the United States, for our ally Israel, and for the world, including those parts that do not know it.  Congressman Louie Gohmert (TX-01) Let today be a world-wide reminder that America stands with Israel, our greatest ally. We recognize that Jerusalem is Israel's rightful and eternal capitaland shall no longer be questioned.  Congressman Ralph Norman (SC-05) The city of Jerusalem holds a special place in the history of civilization and in the hearts of the people of Israel. By recognizing it as the capital of Israel, President Trump reaffirmed our commitment to a steadfast ally and carried out a law passed overwhelmingly by Congress in 1995. On the first anniversary of this important event, I am proud to join my colleagues in celebrating the ties that continue to join the United States and the State of Israel in friendship.  Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09) Israel, our strong ally, has the right to determine its capital city. Our president chose to honor their choice by moving the US embassy to Jerusalem, the historic home of the Jewish people. One year after the president's announcement that we would relocate our embassy, I join my colleagues applauding this historic move and urge other nations to follow the United States' example.  Congressman Dave Brat (VA-07) One year ago, President Donald Trump made a historic announcement to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital and to relocate our embassy there. I applaud President Trump for standing up for one of our closest allies. This recognition is based on ancient history and current political realities, and we must continue to voice that Jerusalem belongs to the people of Israel.  Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (AZ-08) America and Israel's unbreakable bond has been cemented through decades of trust, respect, and mutual cooperation. President Trump's public recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's eternal capital, and his decision to relocate the US Embassy to Jerusalem, were historic moments for US-Israel relations, now and in the future. I am proud to stand with Israel, and to be a cosponsor of Congressman Biggs' important resolution.  Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) A year after recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, we are seeing good progress in the Middle East. It is encouraging to see a number of other countries follow our example in relocating their embassies to the one, true capital of Israel  Jerusalem. Though there are still challenges to overcome, we will continue standing by our greatest ally. I'm delighted to celebrate this milestone with my colleagues and with the great people of Israel.  Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) I am excited to be a part of the one year anniversary of Jerusalem's recognition in Israel. The Administration's step to recognize Jerusalem as the capitol of the State of Israel and spiritual home for the Jewish people helped further our friendship with Israel, the only democracy in the Middle East. Congress has voted favorably many times in the past on this issue, and past Presidents have campaigned on this only to backtrack in office for fear of angering Palestinian and Arab communities. This year marks the continuance of my strong support on this issue.  Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06) Israel is our strongest friend and ally in the Middle East. This time last year, President Trump properly recognized Jerusalem as its capital and showed the world that the United States will always stand with her people, said Rep. Williams. For this reason I am proud to cosponsor Rep. Andy Biggs' resolution, Commemorating the Anniversary of President Trump's Recognition of Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel. I commend the President for his unwavering support of Israel and for remaining dedicated to backing our allies.  Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) All in one year, President Trump made the historic announcement to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's rightful capital, and the State Department moved the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. These actions were long overdue and exemplify the strong devotion and commitment the Trump Administration and the nation have to Israel. I am thankful to be working hand in hand with President Trump as we both stand wholeheartedly with Israel, our great ally and friend.  Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03)  One year after President Trump publicly recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and soon after moved the U.S. embassy there, the United States remains committed to supporting the State of Israel. I applaud this administration in their decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and the eternal friendship between our countries remains strong.  Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01) One year ago, President Trump issued a proclamation to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. With Israel's legislature, Supreme Court, President's office, and Prime Ministers office all being located in the city, Jerusalem is the epicenter of governance in the country. Congress has repeatedly voted to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, despite previous administrations - both Republican and Democratic - failing to deliver. This proclamation, which also relocates our embassy to Jerusalem, is yet another promise that President Trump has fulfilled. As the Co-Chair of the Congressional Israel Victory Caucus, I firmly believe that by moving the United States Embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing it as Israel's capital, we are sending a strong message of America's support for our great ally - asserting the belief that Israel is the nation state of the Jewish people, and that Israel has the undeniable right to exist and defend herself.  Congressman Bill Johnson (OH-06) I was incredibly pleased when President Trump announced the United States' official recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. As the eternal capital of the Jewish people, this was a long-overdue and necessary action to demonstrate America's unwavering support on behalf of our strongest ally in the Middle East. I look forward to the ongoing progress we will make to advance the important partnership and longstanding bond between our nations.  Congressman John Ratcliffe (TX-04) It is the diplomatic right of any sovereign nation to choose where their capital is located; and, for 67 years, Israel has recognized Jerusalem as their capital, said Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA). I applaud President Trump for moving the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv to Jerusalem a year ago, and my good friend Rep. Andy Biggs for commemorating this seismic event between the United States and Israel.  Congressman Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) America's relationship with Israel is unique, and it's strength is the foundation of American leadership in the Middle East. One year ago, President Donald Trump announced that our embassy was to be relocated to Jerusalem, and I was grateful for the opportunity to lead the House delegation to the embassy's opening in May. The President's commitment to Promises Made, Promises Kept strengthens our bond with the people of Israel, who know they have an ally in America.  Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) Israel has long been a friend and an ally to the United States, and it is a priority of mine to continue to stand with them and fortify our bonds. One year ago that bond was strengthened when the President did the right thing by affirming U.S. Law and recognizing Jerusalem as the eternal and undivided capital of Israel.  Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) We have a special partnership with Israel -- the country is our greatest ally in the Middle East and the only democracy in the region. We share the same values regarding individual rights and liberties, and it is essential we stand by them. I am grateful for President Trump's leadership on this important issue and that he made the move to affirm Jerusalem as Israel's rightful capital one year ago.  Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) It has been a year since President Trump fulfilled his pledge to move the United States embassy to Jerusalem. This long-overdue action demonstrates the close friendship between the United States and its strongest ally in the region. I know President Trump will continue to strengthen our bond with Israel after neglect from previous Administrations.  Congressman Todd Rokita (IN-04) One year ago, President Trump announced that the Unites States officially recognized the city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Israel has long been our closest ally in the Middle East, and it was a great honor to witness the historic  and long overdue  opening of the American Embassy in the holy city of Jerusalem just a few months later. Today, I'm proud to celebrate the anniversary of this recognition, and I look forward to continuing to strengthen the enduring ties between our two nations.  Congressman Jody Hice (GA-10)
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=1A1BDD16-A7A3-43B9-8D76-2E7D8D15B6DA,"Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan Announce Grant Funding to Reconstruct I-35/I-535/US 53 Interchange in Duluth",2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Congressman Rick Nolan (all D-MN) announced today that the U.S. Department of Transportation will allocate a $20,000,000 Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant to the Minnesota Department of Transportation to reconstruct the I-35/I-535/US 53 interchange, the US 53 approach to the I-35/I-535/US 53 interchange, and the I-535/Garfield Avenue interchange.
I spoke with Secretary Chao today and thanked her and the Department for working with us on this important project. This major investment will modernize Duluth's downtown infrastructure, create good-paying jobs, and spur additional investments in the region's economy, Klobuchar said. Projects like this supplement investments from local businesses to encourage additional economic expansion. 
Investing in our infrastructure means investing in Minnesota's long-term prosperity, Smith said. The reconstruction of this crucial interchange in Duluth will bring additional jobs and economic development opportunities not only to Duluth but across the entire region.
 ""What a Holiday gift! Nolan said. This federal grant is a monumental win for Duluth and our entire region, allowing our long-awaited and massive highway and bridge reconstruction project to go forward, driving business, commerce, and tourism and helping create and support hundreds of good paying jobs.""
The project will replace aging ramps and bridges in order to accommodate better freight movement into and out of the Port of Duluth. The new design will remove blind merges and left hand exits in order to improve the safety of the interchange.
   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=2C9069EA-3DD3-4F10-BD42-BCC44AD9F36F,Klobuchar Statement on Reestablishment of Permanent Diplomatic Presence in Somalia,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of State announced that they will reestablish a permanent diplomatic presence in Somalia. The United States has not had a permanent diplomatic presence in Somalia since the closure of the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu on January 5, 1991. The United States officially recognized the Federal Government of Somalia in 2013.
The Somali community in Minnesotathe largest in the country has contributed so much to the cultural and economic vitality of our state. While significant challenges remain toward achieving security and stability in Somalia, the reestablishment of a permanent diplomatic presence will strengthen our relationship with the Government of Somalia.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/merkley-senators-introduce-bill-make-public-transit-cleaner-healthier-more-affordable,"Merkley, Senators Introduce Bill to Make Public Transit Cleaner, Healthier, More Affordable",2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Merkley, Senators Introduce Bill to Make Public Transit Cleaner, Healthier, More Affordable
The bill would provide zero-interest loans to purchase electric buses, reducing both emissions and maintenance costs
WASHINGTON, D.C.  Oregon's U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, along with Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Kamala Harris (D-CA), today introduced a bill that would provide transit authorities with zero-interest loans to purchase electric busescurbing emissions among the top source of greenhouse gas pollution in the United States, and cutting fleet maintenance costs by tens of thousands of dollars.
Climate chaos is threatening our future, and we need to act boldly and quickly to stop it, Merkley said. Electric buses mean lower operating costs as well as better health and less pollution, but they cost more to buy. A little up-front help from the federal government turns regular transit updates into opportunities to cut down on emissions and save money. It's common sense and will help build the foundation for a greener future.
Combatting climate change isn't just important; it also is good for our economy. Smith said. Beyond a smaller carbon footprint, electric buses are quieter, more efficient, produce far fewer health harming emissions, and have dramatically lower fuel costs than petroleum diesel buses. Quieter buses and no petroleum diesel smoke make our roads more pleasant for those sharing them, like bikers and pedestrians. With this bill, we're helping our cities make an upfront investment in the health of their communities.
Nevada is a leader in clean energy. And I'm doing all I can to ensure that we continue to strengthen that leadership and support opportunities to create good-paying green jobs, improve the quality of the air we breathe, and help curb climate change, said Cortez Masto. This legislation will empower our local transit agencies to combat carbon emissions, improve residents' quality of life, and save money in the long term. I'll continue working to identify innovative, clean energy solutions that help America thrive.
Climate change is a clear and present threat to our communities and our future. We should be exploring every opportunity to mitigate its effects and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, said Booker. Making public transportation cleaner and more environmentally-friendly is one such opportunity. Our bill is a common-sense way to incentivize local governments to transition their bus fleets to all electric-vehicles, a move that will drastically reduce carbon pollution, improve air quality, and lower maintenance costs.
It is beyond time to take action to combat the continuing rise in greenhouse gas emissions and secure the American people's right to clean air and clean water for future generations, said Harris. I'm proud to cosponsor this bill that would go a long way towards eliminating a major source of air pollution and would give communities across the country the funding they need to invest in new, green transportation infrastructure.
The transportation sector is the number one source of greenhouse gas pollution in the U.S., and 44 percent of U.S. carbon pollution comes from oil. More than 1,000 transit districts operate buses that have traveled over two billion vehicle miles. Electrifying all of the nation's diesel-powered transit buses could save more than two million tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, while eliminating tons of nitrogen oxides and hundreds of pounds of diesel particulate matter containing dozens of toxic air contaminants. Transitioning to cleaner buses will drastically help cut down on carbon pollution and improve communities' air quality. Additionally, transit authorities could save roughly $40,000 a year on fuel and maintenance.
Currently, however, switching to electric buses can be cost prohibitive. That's why the Community Health and Clean Transit Act builds on the success of the Department of Transportation's Low and No Emission grant program and creates an innovative financing tool to offset the upfront capital cost of electric buses, and help communities choose clean and efficient transit fleets.
The Community Health and Clean Transit Act provides zero-interest loans to qualified transit districts for the additional upfront costs of electric buses over conventional diesel buses, as well as the associated charging infrastructure, and technical assistance. The bill would authorize $15 million to cover the default risk of the loan, leveraging critical federal dollars and allowing communities to choose the best bus for their needs and communities.
The bill also encourages innovative partnerships between fleet operators and utilities to facilitate vehicle-to-grid technologies, provide energy storage, and enhance grid resiliency. And, with strong Buy America provisions, the bill ensures that electric buses will help create U.S. jobs.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/sen-smith-demands-urgent-action-climate-change-floor-speech,Sen. Smith Demands Urgent Action on Climate Change in Floor Speech,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Sen. Smith Demands Urgent Action on Climate Change in Floor Speech
Highlights Trump FERC Nominee's Troubling Environmental Record
WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/06/18]Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.), in a speech on the Senate floor, demanded urgent action to combat climate change and spoke out against Trump Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) nominee Bernard McNamee's troubling environmental record.
Citing evidence from the latest National Climate Assessment, Sen. Smith pointed to threats to Minnesota if temperatures continue to rise. You can watch Sen. Smith's speech here.
The problems of a changing climate are already known to us Minnesotans, said Sen. Smith. Our winters are milder than they used to be. We know that rain patterns are changing. We are prone to long hot, dry spells in the summer, but when the rains do come, they are more intense. Storms bringing more than six inches of rain used to be extremely rare, but now Minnesota suffers more than almost anywhere else in the country from a climate-driven increase in mega-rain events.
Sen. Smith, a member of the Energy Committee, has championed several energy and environmental bills, including bipartisan legislation to fund environmental conservation on military bases, which was recently signed into law by the President. In August, Sen. Smith introduced legislation to increase America's energy storage capabilities and help expand the role that renewable energies like wind and solar play in the nation's energy portfolio. Sen. Smith's bill (the Advancing Energy Storage Act) was featured at a hearing in the Energy Committee last week.
You can read a copy of Sen. Smith's remarks as prepared for delivery below:
Floor Statement on Climate Change and FERC nominee Bernard McNamee
M. President.
I rise today to discuss the urgency of addressing climate change and I will also address the nomination of Mr. Bernard McNamee to be a member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which we're debating on the Senate Floor today.
Recently, the Trump Administration released the latest installment of the National Climate Assessment. This report is the work of over 300 expert scientists and 13 different government agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Energy, NASA, and others.
The report makes an urgent case for action by detailing the extreme threat posed to our nation and to our world by climate change. The need for forward-looking environmental and energy policies will be obvious to anyone who reads the report. And it is telling that this report is mandated in a law signed by the late President George H.W. Bush in 1990.
The Administration doesn't want to talk about the report's findings, but the problems of a changing climate are already known to us Minnesotans. Our winters are milder than they used to be. Rain patterns are changing.
We are prone to long hot, dry spells in the summer, but when the rains do come, they are more intense. Big storms used to be rare, but now Minnesota suffers more than almost anywhere else in the country from the climate-driven increase in mega-rain events.
When it rains 6, 8, or even 10 inches all at once, houses flood. Fields flood. The water can't run off or soak into the soil fast enough. As Minnesota's Lieutenant Governor, and now as Senator, I have seen the consequences. Without action on climate change, this problem will get worse.
Even to those who have long accepted the scientific consensus on climate change, the new report makes for sobering reading. The assessment tells us that if greenhouse gas emissions continue unabated, quote: the Midwest is projected to have the largest increase in extreme temperature-related premature deaths. By 2090, the Midwest can expect 2,000 additional deaths per year due to heat alone. That's more than any other region of the country.
Minnesota is a vital contributor to the world's food supply. We rank fourth in the country in corn production and it is our #1 agricultural commodity. In 2017, Minnesota farmers produced 4.5 billion dollars of corn on eight million acres, but that agricultural productivity is threatened by climate change.
The problem going forward is that corn does not tolerate extreme warm temperatures. Corn plants grow best at approximately 80 degrees, and above 95 degrees, reproductive failure is a risk.
U.S. corn yields per acre grew 60% from the 1980s to today. Because of warming temperatures, the climate assessment warns that we risk losing all of those gains by 2050. A world with nearly 10 billion people at mid-century will need American farmers to produce more than ever before.
But climate change threatens farmer's ability to rise to that challenge. That is why I agree with the National Farmers Union, which says, quote: we can't wait for technology to solve climate change, we must take action now.
We grow more than just corn in Minnesota. For example, the Anishinaabe people in my state harvest the world's finest wild rice. But the climate assessment states that, quote: declines in production are expected, related to increases in climate extremes and climate-related disease and pest outbreaks as well as northward shifts of favorable growing regions. The loss of wild rice in Minnesota would be a cultural, ecological, and economic tragedy.
The climate assessment highlights the economic stakesclimate change threatens to reduce the size of the U.S. economy up to 10% by the end of this century, a loss of 100s of billions of dollars per year.
In response to the extreme challenge we face from climate change, I see two potential ways to respond. First, the path offered by Mr. McNamee. We could do nothing to acknowledge the problem.
As the Department of Energy's Deputy General Counsel, Mr. McNamee pushed a dirty coal plant bailout that would have cost American consumers billions of dollars a year, with no discernable benefit for our energy system and a huge loss to our fight against climate change. That is why the proposal was rejected unanimously by the five FERC commissioners. Now Mr. McNamee is nominated to be one of those commissioners.
To avoid dealing with the climate change problem, Mr. McNamee haslike many in this Administrationdecided that the first, best tactic is to deny that there is a problem.
In February of this year, Mr. McNamee spoke at a policy orientation for legislators in Texas. When asked about how his son and other students should react to being taught climate science in schools, Mr. McNamee said just deny it. I don't care if you get an F, I don't care.
I reject Mr. McNamee's head-in-the-sand approach, which is fundamentally pessimistic about America's ability to lead the fight against climate change by leading the clean energy revolution. I, by contrast, am an optimist.
The thing about the clean energy transition is that it is going to happen with or without American leadership. Between now and 2050, the world will invest 11.5 trillion dollars in building new electric generators. Almost 9 in 10 of those dollars will be spent on renewables or other technologies with zero carbon emissions.
The U.S. should lead the way in developing, making, and deploying clean energy technology. However, China is leading the way in renewable energy investments, spending $127 billion in 2017, and outspending the U.S. by more than 3 to 1.
We know that Americans want to step up. California and Hawaii have put themselves on a path to 100% clean energy by 2050. And just this week, Xcel Energy, the largest utility in my state, pledged to deliver an 80% carbon dioxide emission reduction by 2030, with a goal of 100% emissions free electricity by 2050.
States, companies, and individuals can help lead the way, but that doesn't take the Federal Government off the hook. We must pull together as a country, and the scale of the challenge requires national and international coordination and cooperation.
The U.S. can lead, or we can be left behind. We led the way during the fossil fuel revolution, and we were rewarded with world-leading prosperity. There is a new revolution happening. Mr. McNamee and President Trump both believe that we can prosper by doubling down on outdated thinking regarding energy and climate. But they are wrong.
I urge my colleagues to vote no on this nominee. It is the duty of us in Congress to push a clear-eyed but optimistic path forward, and not let misguided ideology leave us stuck in the past.
M. President, I yield the floor.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/merkley-senators-introduce-bill-make-public-transit-cleaner-healthier-more-affordable,"Merkley, Senators Introduce Bill to Make Public Transit Cleaner, Healthier, More Affordable",2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, along with Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Kamala Harris (D-CA), today introduced a bill that would provide transit authorities with zero-interest loans to purchase electric buses—curbing emissions among the top source of greenhouse gas pollution in the United States, and cutting fleet maintenance costs by tens of thousands of dollars.

“Climate chaos is threatening our future, and we need to act boldly and quickly to stop it,” Merkley said.“Electric buses mean lower operating costs as well as better health and less pollution, but they cost more to buy. A little up-front help from the federal government turns regular transit updates into opportunities to cut down on emissions and save money. It’s common sense and will help build the foundation for a greener future.”

“Combatting climate change isn’t just important; it also is good for our economy.” Smith said. “Beyond a smaller carbon footprint, electric buses are quieter, more efficient, produce far fewer health harming emissions, and have dramatically lower fuel costs than petroleum diesel buses. Quieter buses and no petroleum diesel smoke make our roads more pleasant for those sharing them, like bikers and pedestrians. With this bill, we’re helping our cities make an upfront investment in the health of their communities.”

“Nevada is a leader in clean energy. And I’m doing all I can to ensure that we continue to strengthen that leadership and support opportunities to create good-paying green jobs, improve the quality of the air we breathe, and help curb climate change,” said Cortez Masto. “This legislation will empower our local transit agencies to combat carbon emissions, improve residents’ quality of life, and save money in the long term. I’ll continue working to identify innovative, clean energy solutions that help America thrive.”

“Climate change is a clear and present threat to our communities and our future. We should be exploring every opportunity to mitigate its effects and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Booker. “Making public transportation cleaner and more environmentally-friendly is one such opportunity. Our bill is a common-sense way to incentivize local governments to transition their bus fleets to all electric-vehicles, a move that will drastically reduce carbon pollution, improve air quality, and lower maintenance costs.”

“It is beyond time to take action to combat the continuing rise in greenhouse gas emissions and secure the American people’s right to clean air and clean water for future generations,” said Harris. “I’m proud to cosponsor this bill that would go a long way towards eliminating a major source of air pollution and would give communities across the country the funding they need to invest in new, green transportation infrastructure.”

The transportation sector is the number one source of greenhouse gas pollution in the U.S., and 44 percent of U.S. carbon pollution comes from oil. More than 1,000 transit districts operate buses that have traveled over two billion vehicle miles. Electrifying all of the nation’s diesel-powered transit buses could save more than two million tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, while eliminating tons of nitrogen oxides and hundreds of pounds of diesel particulate matter containing dozens of toxic air contaminants. Transitioning to cleaner buses will drastically help cut down on carbon pollution and improve communities’ air quality. Additionally, transit authorities could save roughly $40,000 a year on fuel and maintenance.

Currently, however, switching to electric buses can be cost prohibitive. That’s why the Community Health and Clean Transit Act builds on the success of the Department of Transportation’s Low and No Emission grant program and creates an innovative financing tool to offset the upfront capital cost of electric buses, and help communities choose clean and efficient transit fleets.

The Community Health and Clean Transit Act provides zero-interest loans to qualified transit districts for the additional upfront costs of electric buses over conventional diesel buses, as well as the associated charging infrastructure, and technical assistance. The bill would authorize $15 million to cover the default risk of the loan, leveraging critical federal dollars and allowing communities to choose the best bus for their needs and communities.

The bill also encourages innovative partnerships between fleet operators and utilities to facilitate vehicle-to-grid technologies, provide energy storage, and enhance grid resiliency. And, with strong “Buy America” provisions, the bill ensures that electric buses will help create U.S. jobs.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/sen-smith-demands-urgent-action-climate-change-floor-speech,Sen. Smith Demands Urgent Action on Climate Change in Floor Speech,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/06/18]—Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.), in a speech on the Senate floor, demanded urgent action to combat climate change and spoke out against Trump Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) nominee Bernard McNamee’s troubling environmental record.

Citing evidence from the latest National Climate Assessment, Sen. Smith pointed to threats to Minnesota if temperatures continue to rise. You can watch Sen. Smith’s speech here.

“The problems of a changing climate are already known to us Minnesotans,” said Sen. Smith. “Our winters are milder than they used to be. We know that rain patterns are changing. We are prone to long hot, dry spells in the summer, but when the rains do come, they are more intense. Storms bringing more than six inches of rain used to be extremely rare, but now Minnesota suffers more than almost anywhere else in the country from a climate-driven increase in “mega-rain events.”

Sen. Smith, a member of the Energy Committee, has championed several energy and environmental bills, including bipartisan legislation to fund environmental conservation on military bases, which was recently signed into law by the President. In August, Sen. Smith introduced legislation to increase America’s energy storage capabilities and help expand the role that renewable energies like wind and solar play in the nation’s energy portfolio. Sen. Smith’s bill (the “Advancing Energy Storage Act”) was featured at a hearing in the Energy Committee last week.

You can read a copy of Sen. Smith’s remarks as prepared for delivery below:

Floor Statement on Climate Change and FERC nominee Bernard McNamee

M. President.

I rise today to discuss the urgency of addressing climate change and I will also address the nomination of Mr. Bernard McNamee to be a member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which we’re debating on the Senate Floor today.

Recently, the Trump Administration released the latest installment of the National Climate Assessment. This report is the work of over 300 expert scientists and 13 different government agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Energy, NASA, and others.

The report makes an urgent case for action by detailing the extreme threat posed to our nation and to our world by climate change. The need for forward-looking environmental and energy policies will be obvious to anyone who reads the report. And it is telling that this report is mandated in a law signed by the late President George H.W. Bush in 1990.

The Administration doesn’t want to talk about the report’s findings, but the problems of a changing climate are already known to us Minnesotans. Our winters are milder than they used to be. Rain patterns are changing.

We are prone to long hot, dry spells in the summer, but when the rains do come, they are more intense. Big storms used to be rare, but now Minnesota suffers more than almost anywhere else in the country from the climate-driven increase in “mega-rain events.”

When it rains 6, 8, or even 10 inches all at once, houses flood. Fields flood. The water can’t run off or soak into the soil fast enough. As Minnesota’s Lieutenant Governor, and now as Senator, I have seen the consequences. Without action on climate change, this problem will get worse.

Even to those who have long accepted the scientific consensus on climate change, the new report makes for sobering reading. The assessment tells us that if greenhouse gas emissions continue unabated, quote: “the Midwest is projected to have the largest increase in extreme temperature-related premature deaths.” By 2090, the Midwest can expect 2,000 additional deaths per year due to heat alone. That’s more than any other region of the country.

Minnesota is a vital contributor to the world’s food supply. We rank fourth in the country in corn production and it is our #1 agricultural commodity. In 2017, Minnesota farmers produced 4.5 billion dollars of corn on eight million acres, but that agricultural productivity is threatened by climate change.

The problem going forward is that corn does not tolerate extreme warm temperatures. Corn plants grow best at approximately 80 degrees, and above 95 degrees, reproductive failure is a risk.

U.S. corn yields per acre grew 60% from the 1980s to today. Because of warming temperatures, the climate assessment warns that we risk losing all of those gains by 2050. A world with nearly 10 billion people at mid-century will need American farmers to produce more than ever before.

But climate change threatens farmer’s ability to rise to that challenge. That is why I agree with the National Farmers Union, which says, quote: “we can’t wait for technology to solve climate change, we must take action now.”

We grow more than just corn in Minnesota. For example, the Anishinaabe people in my state harvest the world’s finest wild rice. But the climate assessment states that, quote: “declines in production are expected, related to increases in climate extremes and climate-related disease and pest outbreaks as well as northward shifts of favorable growing regions.” The loss of wild rice in Minnesota would be a cultural, ecological, and economic tragedy.

The climate assessment highlights the economic stakes—climate change threatens to reduce the size of the U.S. economy up to 10% by the end of this century, a loss of 100s of billions of dollars per year.

In response to the extreme challenge we face from climate change, I see two potential ways to respond. First, the path offered by Mr. McNamee. We could do nothing to acknowledge the problem.

As the Department of Energy’s Deputy General Counsel, Mr. McNamee pushed a dirty coal plant bailout that would have cost American consumers billions of dollars a year, with no discernable benefit for our energy system and a huge loss to our fight against climate change. That is why the proposal was rejected unanimously by the five FERC commissioners. Now Mr. McNamee is nominated to be one of those commissioners.

To avoid dealing with the climate change problem, Mr. McNamee has—like many in this Administration—decided that the first, best tactic is to deny that there is a problem.

In February of this year, Mr. McNamee spoke at a policy orientation for legislators in Texas. When asked about how his son and other students should react to being taught climate science in schools, Mr. McNamee said “just deny it. I don’t care if you get an F, I don’t care.”

I reject Mr. McNamee’s head-in-the-sand approach, which is fundamentally pessimistic about America’s ability to lead the fight against climate change by leading the clean energy revolution. I, by contrast, am an optimist.

The thing about the clean energy transition is that it is going to happen with or without American leadership. Between now and 2050, the world will invest 11.5 trillion dollars in building new electric generators. Almost 9 in 10 of those dollars will be spent on renewables or other technologies with zero carbon emissions.

The U.S. should lead the way in developing, making, and deploying clean energy technology. However, China is leading the way in renewable energy investments, spending $127 billion in 2017, and outspending the U.S. by more than 3 to 1.

We know that Americans want to step up. California and Hawaii have put themselves on a path to 100% clean energy by 2050. And just this week, Xcel Energy, the largest utility in my state, pledged to deliver an 80% carbon dioxide emission reduction by 2030, with a goal of 100% emissions free electricity by 2050.

States, companies, and individuals can help lead the way, but that doesn’t take the Federal Government off the hook. We must pull together as a country, and the scale of the challenge requires national and international coordination and cooperation.

The U.S. can lead, or we can be left behind. We led the way during the fossil fuel revolution, and we were rewarded with world-leading prosperity. There is a new revolution happening. Mr. McNamee and President Trump both believe that we can prosper by doubling down on outdated thinking regarding energy and climate. But they are wrong.

I urge my colleagues to vote “no” on this nominee. It is the duty of us in Congress to push a clear-eyed but optimistic path forward, and not let misguided ideology leave us stuck in the past.

M. President, I yield the floor.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-sees-missed-opportunity-epa%E2%80%99s-final-rfs-rule,Peterson Sees Missed Opportunity in EPAs Final RFS Rule,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a final rule under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program and set the required amount of biofuels that must be blended in the nation's fuel supply for 2019 and biomass-based biodiesel for 2020. Although the Renewable Volume Obligations (RVO) in today's rule are a slight improvement from the proposed rule, Congressman Collin C. Peterson (D-Minn.) sees a missed opportunity to reallocate gallons lost due to the so-called hardship waivers. Congressman Peterson serves as one of the Co-chairs of the Congressional Biofuels Caucus.
Rural communities depend on a strong RFS to boost commodity prices, and I am disappointed that this rule didn't address the billions of gallons lost due to the small refinery waivers. The small increases in the volume obligations don't compensate for the damage done by these waivers, Peterson said.
Although conventional ethanol is maintained at the 15 billion gallon target set by Congress and advanced biofuel saw an uptick to 4.92 billion gallons, EPA's decision to undermine the RFS by granting controversial hardship waivers resulted in 2.25 billion gallons of biofuels lost in the marketplace. The agency could have addressed this problem today by reallocating those gallons, but chose not to act. These waivers hurt ethanol producers and create more uncertainty for farmers already struggling with low commodity prices.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-11302018,Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 11/30/2018,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thief River Falls in 1905  Pennington County
Dear Friends,
This week, I was glad to announce that House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway and I have reached an agreement in principle on the 2018 Farm Bill along with our Senate counterparts, Chairman Pat Roberts of Kansas and Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow of Michigan. While work continues to finalize the bill  we are polishing off language and waiting on scores from the Congressional Budget Office  I look forward to presenting it to folks in the Seventh District and around the country as soon as we are done. On Tuesday, my office learned that Northbound U.S.- Canadian border crossings were ordered to close early, causing problems for people that rely on border crossings for work. My office contacted U.S. Customs and Border Control on Wednesday and got them to reverse this order. I am happy that this change could be made quickly to spare folks from racing the clock home every night.
Sincerely,
Congressman Collin C. Peterson  Minnesota 7th District
 Border Decision to Lock Northbound Gates Early is Reversed 
On Tuesday night, travelers heading into Canada from Roseau were surprised when northbound traffic was blocked at the U.S. border after 8 P.M. even though Canadian authorities keep their ports open until 10 P.M. and midnight. On Wednesday, my office spoke with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in the Seattle field office where the decision was originally made. That evening, CBP reversed course and will allow northbound traffic to reach the Tolsoi Port until 10 P.M., Piney Port until 10 P.M., and the South Junction Port until midnight.
I'm glad this issue was resolved quickly, and I'm still urging CBP to keep the Lancaster and Roseau ports open longer.
 U.S. Canada Inter-Parliamentary Meeting 
I met with members of the Canadian parliament on Wednesday to discuss our national relations, the new trade deal to replace NAFTA, the administration's continued tariffs on steel and aluminum, and dairy policy in Canada and the U.S. We also discussed the northwest angle and the history of the Blue Dog Coalition.
 Bayer Crop Science Vice President of Government Relations 
  Duane Simpson and Scott Kuschmider
Bayer Crop Science's new Vice President of Government Relations, Duane Simpson, stopped by my office on Thursday to introduce himself and to share a few of Bayer's priorities for the 116th Congress. This division of Bayer develops crop protection and seed products with the goal of increasing the productivity and nutritional value of crops around the world. I was glad to meet Duane and I look forward to hearing more from him and his team.
 Minnesota Chamber and Building and Construction Trades Council 
  President Doug Loon and President Harry Melander
Doug Loon of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce and Harry Melander of the Building and Construction Trades Council traveled to Washington to advocate for H.R. 3115, the Superior National Forest Land Exchange Act. I support this bill that codifies an already-approved land exchange between the U.S. Forest Service and PolyMet. It passed the House of Representatives by a strong bipartisan vote of 309 - 99. The project has undergone more than a decade of environmental review and will create jobs in Minnesota.
 CentraCare Health 
  Ken Holmen (CEO), Santo Cruz (Director of Community and Government Relations) and Paul Harris (Vice President, General Counsel)
This week, representatives of CentraCare Health visited my office to discuss rural nursing shortages and the system's response to the opioid epidemic. The group also thanked me for my support as they participate in the Medicare Shared Savings Program to achieve better health outcomes and lower costs for Medicare beneficiaries. CentraCare is a non-profit health system comprised of hospitals, nursing homes, senior housing, clinics, and pharmacies spanning 12 counties in greater Minnesota.
 Discussing the Future of U.S. Hemp 
  Michael Bowman and Hillary Barry (LAKE WILSON)
I recently met with Michael Bowman, a Colorado producer of industrial hemp, and his uncle, Hillary Barry of Lake Wilson, on the likelihood of deregulating the production of industrial hemp within the 2018 Farm Bill. I supported provisions in the 2014 Farm Bill which encourage additional research on this promising new crop and I look forward to the possible encouragement of wider plantings of industrial hemp by the 2018 Farm Bill.
 Pheasants Forever  Dave Nomsen 
I sat down with my friend David Nomsen this week. Dave is the Vice President of Governmental Affairs for Pheasants Forever and I was glad to give him an update on the Farm Bill. We discussed the conservation title of the bill and our shared desire to increase the maximum number of acres allowed in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), a program that incentivizes farmers to take cropland out of production and plant species that improve environmental health. CRP land frequently becomes a habitat for wildlife and investing in this program is an effective way to grow regional animal populations.
 Sharing Rural Values with Urban Members 
Congressman Tom Suozzi represents New York's 3rd District containing most of the North Shore of Long Island and parts of Queens. Last fall, Rep. Suozzi visited the 7th District to learn about our part of Minnesota and tour a sugarbeet processing plant. We went duck hunting together, and he took the wood duck shown in the picture above. I had his duck mounted and I presented him the trophy this week. It is important for Members of Congress to understand the differences in lifestyle and attitude that exist in other parts of the nation, and I was happy to accompany Congressman Suozzi during his visit.
 National Association of Conservation Districts 
  President-Elect Tim Palmer, Executive Board Member Ian Cunningham (PIPESTONE) and my staff aide Cody Hollerich
Representatives of the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) met with my staff this week to discuss the importance of local input on the use of federal conservation funds. NACD represents more than 3,000 conservation districts across the United States and they believe that conservation works best when strategies are coordinated with input from all levels. They stressed the need to maintain funding for conservation programs and the benefit of giving local working groups the freedom to use resources for the activities that are needed most.
 Gift Making with the Sons of Norway 
The Sons of Norway taught children in Thief River Falls to make traditional Scandinavian Christmas gifts this week. The children learned to make decorative wheat sheaves, spiced orange pomander balls, tree and table ornaments, Christmas cookies and more. The Sons of Norway used this event to kick off the holiday season and to emphasize the importance of giving during this time.
 Newsstand 
 Farm Bill 
After months of work on the farm bill, I was pleased to announce that House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway and I have reached an agreement in principle on the 2018 Farm Bill along with our Senate counterparts, Chairman Pat Roberts of Kansas and Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow of Michigan. While work continues to finalize the billwe're polishing off language and waiting on scores from the Congressional Budget OfficeI look forward to presenting it to folks in the Seventh District and around the country as soon as we're done. I've repeatedly heard from farmers and ranchers, rural community advocates, and a range of other farm bill stakeholders and I understand how important it is to get this done. We're almost there!
 The Great Outdoors with Dennis Anderson 
Last week I was a guest on The Great Outdoors radio show, hosted by Dennis Anderson. We discussed deer hunting and the Manage Our Wolves bill that had just passed the House, a bill in which I spoke about on the floor.
To listen to our discussion click here.
 This Week in American History 
On November 28th, 1922, Lake of the Woods County was established. It contains the northernmost point in the Lower 48 states, the Northwest Angle. According to the 2010 census, Lake of the Woods County has a population of 4,045. The county seat is Baudette.
 What's the Story? 
Arctic Cat is a snowmobile and ATV manufacturer based in Thief River Falls. Formed in 1960, the company has been an important part of the Thief River Falls community for over fifty years. They unveiled their first front engine snowmobile in 1963 and have since improved and expanded their line of vehicles to fit the needs of recreational and competitive riders across the country. I have a copy of their book, 50 Years of the Cat, on display in my Washington, D.C. office.
  Autumn Day  Amanda Santjer  Sacred Heart",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/merry-christmas-happy-holidays-and-thank-you,"Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Thank you!",2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Rick Nolan,N000127,nolan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Thank you! 

	Mary and I are looking forward to returning to Minnesota life, spending more time with our children, grandchildren, friends and neighbors.
Dear Friend,
As I prepare to leave Congress this coming January 3rd, I'm truly sorry to tell you that this will be our last issue of the Monday Report.Thank you for following our efforts over the past six yearsto establish new, better, more inclusive priorities consistent with America's highest ideals of freedom, democracy, justice, and equality. Returning to Congress in 2013 after a 32-year hiatus from my first period of service in the 1970's, I felt better prepared than ever before to take on the job. Vanderbilt University and the University of Virginia agreed. In 2015, the Washington Post published their study naming me one of theTop Ten Most Effective Members of Congress, and the second most effective Democrat. To get there, and best serve Minnesota's 8th District and our great Nation, my staff and I approached our job in two big ways bold and aspirational,andfix things, solve problems, and get stuff done.And we did so by reaching across the aisle in the spirit ofbipartisanship.Every bill we passed, and virtually every success we had, came with a Republican partner and Republican support.
On the bold and aspirational side...
we worked hard tochange the way we do politics, put a stop to endless wars of choice, and reorder our national priorities to putpeople firstwith universal, single payer health care, and more resources for good paying jobs, public education, medical research, the battle against climate change, and protecting Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, just to name a few.

	Click on the screen above to hear me explain our Restore Democracy Revolution.
 OurRestore Democracylegislation established a blueprint for campaign and elections reform, getting secret, dark, toxic money from our politics, and puttingCongress back to workon the people's business  not campaign fundraising.
 
	In September of 2013, TIME Magazine cited Republican Senator Rand Paul and me, along with Congresswoman Barbara Lee, for leadership in keeping the U.S. out of war with Syria.
 Cited by TIME Magazine for leadership instopping the U.S. from going to war with Syria, I was also proud to pass several successful amendments to Defense Appropriations bills that put a stop to the waste of millions of taxpayer dollars in the corrupt nation of Afghanistan. And just last spring, I was able to bring an amendment to the floor tozero out the Overseas Contingency Fundused to pay for endless wars of choice. We didn't pass that measure, but the very fact that it was considered marked a major step forward.
 This was the scene in front of the U.S. Capitol back in July as I joined some 60 other members of Congress in announcing the formation of our new Medicare for All Caucus. This photo shows Medicare for All Caucus lead, Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, speaking about the fact that no one should be one health care crisis away from bankruptcy.
 Along with several others,I took the lead in introducing a universal, single payer health carebill that has garnered some 200 cosponsors  up from a handful when we began the effort back in the 1970's.
 1000-foot long Laker ships loaded with Minnesota Iron Range iron ore and other products from our region make their way from Lake Superior through the Soo Locks and into the rest of the Great Lakes chain toward the St. Lawrence seaway.
 Working across the aisle with Republicans and Democrats from Great Lakes states, westopped Administration budget cuts and fully funded the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative(GLRI). And we laid the groundwork for a billion-dollar repair and refurbishing of the Soo Locks at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan so critical to Minnesota's iron ore, agriculture, and manufacturing industries.
 It's easy to get worked up for a good cause, as I clearly did at this press conference announcing introduction of the Butch Lewis Act to ensure that no retiree's hard-earned pension would ever be cut  not by one dime!
 Drawing nationwide attention toAmerica's pension crisis, we established the bipartisanPension Protection Caucus, and put a stop to proposed cuts by the Central States Pension Fund that would have forced hundreds of thousands of workers to take hundreds of billions of dollars in cuts to their hard-earned pensions.
 Click on the screen above to hear me address the Life and Breath rally in front of the U.S. Capitol. Hundreds of lung cancer survivors, family members and supporters joined our daughter Katherine and me and other members of our Congressional Lung Cancer Caucus for this event to point out that lung cancer is a national emergency.
 Lung cancer is the deadliest of all the cancersand yet, lifesaving medical research to better prevent, diagnose, treat and ultimately cure this terrible disease isdrastically underfunded.Establishing the bipartisan Lung Cancer Caucus, we passed amendments designating more than$6 million for new lung cancer research, and helped add hundreds of millions of dollars for cancer research at the National Cancer Institute.
 On the fix things, solve problems and get stuff done side...
we focused more specifically on Minnesota and the people we are so proud to serve here in the 8th Congressional District.
Cirrus Aircraft'sincredible Vision Jet is the world's first single engine, personal jet aircraft equipped with a parachute system that actually floats the aircraft safely to the ground if trouble arises.
 Cirrus Aircraft in Duluthis expanding and adding hundreds of new jobs thanks, in part, to our Small Aircraft legislation that changed federal regulations to accommodate and encourage advances in small aircraft technology.
 Our office was instrumental in obtaining a $10 million TIGER transportation grant for the Port of Duluth back in 2015. The Port anchors the westernmost point of the entire 2,340-mile Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway system that connects Minnesota's mines, businesses, manufacturers, farmers, and timber producers with the global marketplace.
 Minnesota gets back less of the federal tax money we send to Washington than almost any other state  about 65 cents on the dollar  and I made it my mission early on to change that. Over the past six years, on our watch, 8th District communities, airports, ports, schools, parks and other facilities have receivedmore than $1.3 billionin federal funds for worthy projects that create good paying jobs and enhance everyone's quality of life.
		
	Shortly after taking office in 2013, and pounding onEnvironmental Protection Agency(EPA) doors from Washington to Chicago, I was able to convince the agency to give ourIron Range minesmore time to comply with EPA haze abatement regulations saving thousands of jobsby preventing lengthy and unnecessary shutdowns.
 On what Cleveland Cliffs Chairman and CEO Lorenco Goncalves famously called the day that changed everything, White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough addresses the press after his visit to Virginia, Minnesota in December 2015 at my request. After meeting with Steelworkers, mining company leaders, business people and elected officials to hear how illegal foreign steel was damaging the Range economy, he brought President Obama on board in support of tough new tariffs, countervailing duties, taxes and enforcement measures.
 Whenillegal steel dumping by Chinaand other trade cheater nations put thousands of miners, transportation workers, and Minnesota Iron Rangers from all walks of life out of work in 2015, President Obama'sWhite House Chief of Staff, Denis McDonough, came to the Rangeat my requestto hear from the people affected and see the damage for himself.
 That day in December 2015 became known asthe day that changed everything.With the Administration on board, we led the way as the International Trade Commission (ITC) establishedtariffs and taxes of up to 522% on illegal foreign steel and by the end of 2016, thousands of miners and other Rangers were back on the job, long before the current President took office.
 Land exchangesbetween state and federal governments must be approved by Congress, and I was able to pass several of these measures into law for the benefit of ourMinnesota Indian tribes, counties, and communities.And with help from Republican colleagues, I was proud to shepherd thePolyMet land exchange bill through the House.That measure, which awaits action by the Senate, is critical to the success of PolyMet's NorthMet project to bring hundreds of good paying jobs to the Iron Range while preserving and protecting our precious environment through the most rigorous environmental review process, and environmental rules and regulations, in the world.
		
 Click on the screen above to hear my speech on the floor of the House urging passage of our North Country Trail Bill.
Millions of Americans love our hiking trails and the good exercise and camaraderie they offer. With that in mind, the House earlier this yearunanimously passed my bipartisan bill(H.R. 1026) to incorporate some400 miles of world class trails withinthe Minnesota Boundary Waters, the Superior Hiking Trail, the Border Route Trail and the Kekekabic Trail into the North Country National Scenic Trail.
 With help from local and state officials, landowners, volunteers and other stakeholders, we've finished the trail with a new route thatskirts 100 miles of environmentally sensitive wetlands and bogsthat had been included under a previous plan.And as I made clear to my colleagues, this measuredoesn't involve any new dollars or take any land through eminent domain.
  What the bill does do isput the finishing touches on a unified 4,600-mile national hiking trail systemthat stretches from the plains of North Dakota through Minnesota's Arrowhead all the way to the forests of Vermont, where it will connect with the Appalachian Trail.
 Serving thegreat people of Minnesota's 8th District, as well as our great state and nation, here in Congress has been an honor and privilege for which I will always be grateful.Thank you for being a part of that journeythrough our Monday Report. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/re-elect-phillips-will-join-gun-violence-prevention-taskforce,Re.-Elect Phillips Will Join Gun Violence Prevention Taskforce,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Dean Phillips,P000616,phillips.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  TodayGun Violence Prevention Task Force Chairman Mike Thompson (CA-05)announced thatMember-Elect Dean Phillips (MN-03)has joined the Task Force for the 116thCongress.
Thoughts and tweets don't save lives  courage and action save lives,said Member-Elect Phillips.I am committed to advancing commonsense solutions to address our nation's gun violence epidemic, and I look forward to joining my colleagues on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force in the new Congress to do just that.""
Dean is a fierce advocate for advancing solutions to combat gun violence, standing up to the gun lobby throughout his campaign,said Chairman Thompson.His voice and strong background on this issue will be an asset to our Task Force as we work to pass legislation that will help address the issue of gun violence.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://phillips.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-elect-phillips-leads-call-reform-washington,Rep.-Elect Phillips Leads the Call for Reform in Washington,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Dean Phillips,P000616,phillips.house.gov,,,legacy,"EXCELSIOR, MN - On Friday, Representative-Elect Dean Phillips stood with Congressional leaders to announce that a sweeping campaign finance and ethics reform bill will be H.R. 1 in the 116th Congress.

Our victory showed that it's possible to run a clean, people-powered campaign and win. I'm on a mission to make that the rule, not the exception, said Phillips. On November 6, Americans stepped up and demanded change. It's time to elevate the common interest over special interests, time to return to a government and a system of campaigning that is of the people, by the people, and for the people.

Phillips had made campaign finance reform a hallmark of his 2018 campaign, foregoing all contributions from PACs, lobbyists, and even members of Congress against a well-funded entrenched incumbent. 

Rep. Sarbanes of Maryland authored the comprehensive anti-corruption legislation. Earlier this summer, Sarbanes was a panelist on a campaign finance reform issue forum hosted by Phillips, a model that was then replicated across the country in other Congressional districts. Sarbanes and Phillips will work together to have the bill ready for a vote when the new Congress is sworn in on January 3, 2019. 

I often said on the campaign trail that I hoped the first bill I would vote on in Washington if I was given the honor of serving would be for campaign finance reform, Phillips reflected. I'm humbled that our community has trusted me to be their voice in Washington and I'm proud to begin fulfilling the commitment I made to them as a leader on H.R. 1.

H.R. 1 will confront corruption in Washington by addressing campaign finance reform -- including the passing of Senator Amy Klobuchar's Honest Ads Act, strengthening ethics laws, and expanding and protecting voting rights. 

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/us-senator-tina-smith-we-must-ensure-veterans-receive-full-housing-benefits,U.S. Senator Tina Smith: We Must Ensure Veterans Receive Full Housing Benefits,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senator Presses Department of Veterans Affairs to Launch Investigation,
Provide Clear Answers To Guarantee Veterans are Paid in Full
WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/03/18]U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) is helping to lead a bipartisan push to get the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to quickly clarify how it intends to make whole the more than 360,000 veterans in Minnesota and across the country who are at risk of being denied the full housing benefits they've earned.
In response torecent reportsthat the VA plans to withhold retroactive payments for missed or underpaid monthly housing benefits from some veterans because it would create a backlog, Sen. Smith joined 12 of her Congressional colleagues in asking the VA's Inspector General to investigate and clarify how it will ensure full benefits are paid.
Last week, a top VA benefits official told the House Veterans Affairs Committee that veterans still awaiting payments would be made whole, but he was unclear on whether the VA would pay the higher rates that went into effect in August, or the lower benefits provided previously.
The VA's continued ambiguity about whether it will fulfill this legal requirement threatens to erode our veterans' confidence in the VA's ability to deliver promised care and benefits and demands close oversight and accountability,wrote Sen. Smith and hercolleagues to the VA's Inspector General.It is important that VA fix the technical and staffing shortages that contributed to its inability to implement the Forever GI bill so that it can continue to provide housing stipends to veterans. However, we remain resolved that VA make veterans whole for any missed or underpaid benefits based on the housing stipend rates that they were legally entitled to when the changes took effect in August 2018.
In addition to Sen. Smith, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) led the letter signed by John Boozman (R-Ark.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Doug Jones (D-Ala.) and U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (D-Wash.).
You can read the full text of the letterhereor below:
Dear Mr. Missal:
We are writing to request an investigation into allegations that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will withhold retroactive payments for missed or underpaid monthly housing stipends that it failed to pay veterans during delayed implementation of the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Education Assistance Act (P.L. 115-48), known as the Forever GI Bill.
According to NBC News on November 28, 2018 (Veterans Affairs Dept. tells Capitol Hill it won't repay underpaid GI Bill benefits recipients), VA officials told congressional staff that making retroactive payments to veterans for missed or underpaid housing stipends would not be possible because it would create auditing challenges for the VA and delay future claims processing. That decision would be contrary to law and leave an estimated 360,000 veterans robbed of the benefits owed to them.
We understand that Under Secretary for Benefits Paul Lawrence, in testimony before the House Veterans Affairs Committee yesterday, sought to clarify the VA's position by stating that every veteran will be made whole, including with retroactive payments, for their housing benefits. However, it remains unclear if VA intends to provide retroactive payments to veterans for housing stipends based on rates that they were legally entitled to beginning August 1, 2018, or if the VA only intends to make veterans whole based on the rates as they existed before the law took effectand remain in violation of existing law.
It is important that VA fix the technical and staffing shortages that contributed to its inability to implement the Forever GI bill so that it can continue to provide housing stipends to veterans. However, we remain resolved that VA make veterans whole for any missed or underpaid benefits based on the housing stipend rates that they were legally entitled to when the changes took effect in August 2018. The VA's continued ambiguity about whether it will fulfill this legal requirement threatens to erode our veterans' confidence in the VA's ability to deliver promised care and benefits and demands close oversight and accountability.
In an effort to help us better understand VA's plan to provide complete relief to those veterans impacted by the delayed implementation of the Forever GI Bill, we request your assistance to answer the following:

1. Does the VA intend to apply the August 1, 2018, housing stipend rates, as required by law, for retroactive payments to eligible beneficiaries?
2. If not, under what legal authority would the VA withhold retroactive payments based on the rates required in the Forever GI Bill?
3. Who will be responsible for determining which veterans can receive retroactive payments for missed or underpaid benefits, including adjusted housing stipend rates that took effect on August 1, 2018?
4. How and when will VA process these retroactive repayments to eligible veterans?
5. How, if at all, have IT infrastructure investment decisions at VA's regional processing centers contributed to the current delay in implementing the changes required by the Forever GI Bill, including missed or underpayments owed to veterans?
6. How, if at all, have staffing shortages at VA's regional processing centers contributed to the current delay in implementing the changes required by the Forever GI Bill, including missed or underpayments owed to veterans?
7. How, if at all, is VA leadership organized and prepared to address IT infrastructure investment challenges at its regional processing centers in its fiscal year (FY) 2020 budget request?
8.How, if at all, is VA leadership organized and prepared to address staffing shortages across the VA system, including at the Veterans Benefits Administration that is responsible for processing claims and retroactive payments to veterans, in its FY 2020 budget request?
As always, we appreciate your support of our oversight responsibilities. Your prompt attention to this request will help us as we prepare to consider the VA's FY 2020 budget request so that we can evaluate whether the VA has requested the appropriate resources that it needs to make timely beneficiary payments and deliver other promised care to our veterans.
Sincerely,
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/us-senator-tina-smith-we-must-ensure-veterans-receive-full-housing-benefits,U.S. Senator Tina Smith: We Must Ensure Veterans Receive Full Housing Benefits,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/03/18]—U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) is helping to lead a bipartisan push to get the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to quickly clarify how it intends to “make whole” the more than 360,000 veterans in Minnesota and across the country who are at risk of being denied the full housing benefits they’ve earned.

In response to recent reports that the VA plans to withhold retroactive payments for missed or underpaid monthly housing benefits from some veterans because it would create a backlog, Sen. Smith joined 12 of her Congressional colleagues in asking the VA’s Inspector General to investigate and clarify how it will ensure full benefits are paid.

Last week, a top VA benefits official told the House Veterans Affairs Committee that veterans still awaiting payments would be made whole, but he was unclear on whether the VA would pay the higher rates that went into effect in August, or the lower benefits provided previously.

“The VA’s continued ambiguity about whether it will fulfill this legal requirement threatens to erode our veterans’ confidence in the VA’s ability to deliver promised care and benefits and demands close oversight and accountability,” wrote Sen. Smith and her colleagues to the VA’s Inspector General. “It is important that VA fix the technical and staffing shortages that contributed to its inability to implement the Forever GI bill so that it can continue to provide housing stipends to veterans. However, we remain resolved that VA make veterans whole for any missed or underpaid benefits based on the housing stipend rates that they were legally entitled to when the changes took effect in August 2018.”

In addition to Sen. Smith, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) led the letter signed by John Boozman (R-Ark.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Doug Jones (D-Ala.) and U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (D-Wash.).

You can read the full text of the letter here or below:

Dear Mr. Missal:

We are writing to request an investigation into allegations that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will withhold retroactive payments for missed or underpaid monthly housing stipends that it failed to pay veterans during delayed implementation of the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Education Assistance Act (P.L. 115-48), known as the “Forever GI Bill.”

According to NBC News on November 28, 2018 (“Veterans Affairs Dept. tells Capitol Hill it won’t repay underpaid GI Bill benefits recipients”), VA officials told congressional staff that making retroactive payments to veterans for missed or underpaid housing stipends would not be possible because it would create auditing challenges for the VA and delay future claims processing. That decision would be contrary to law and leave an estimated 360,000 veterans robbed of the benefits owed to them.

We understand that Under Secretary for Benefits Paul Lawrence, in testimony before the House Veterans Affairs Committee yesterday, sought to clarify the VA’s position by stating that every veteran will be made whole, including with retroactive payments, for their housing benefits. However, it remains unclear if VA intends to provide retroactive payments to veterans for housing stipends based on rates that they were legally entitled to beginning August 1, 2018, or if the VA only intends to make veterans whole based on the rates as they existed before the law took effect—and remain in violation of existing law.

It is important that VA fix the technical and staffing shortages that contributed to its inability to implement the Forever GI bill so that it can continue to provide housing stipends to veterans. However, we remain resolved that VA make veterans whole for any missed or underpaid benefits based on the housing stipend rates that they were legally entitled to when the changes took effect in August 2018. The VA’s continued ambiguity about whether it will fulfill this legal requirement threatens to erode our veterans’ confidence in the VA’s ability to deliver promised care and benefits and demands close oversight and accountability.

In an effort to help us better understand VA’s plan to provide complete relief to those veterans impacted by the delayed implementation of the Forever GI Bill, we request your assistance to answer the following:

1. Does the VA intend to apply the August 1, 2018, housing stipend rates, as required by law, for retroactive payments to eligible beneficiaries?

2. If not, under what legal authority would the VA withhold retroactive payments based on the rates required in the Forever GI Bill?

3. Who will be responsible for determining which veterans can receive retroactive payments for missed or underpaid benefits, including adjusted housing stipend rates that took effect on August 1, 2018?

4. How and when will VA process these retroactive repayments to eligible veterans?

5. How, if at all, have IT infrastructure investment decisions at VA’s regional processing centers contributed to the current delay in implementing the changes required by the Forever GI Bill, including missed or underpayments owed to veterans?

6. How, if at all, have staffing shortages at VA’s regional processing centers contributed to the current delay in implementing the changes required by the Forever GI Bill, including missed or underpayments owed to veterans?

7. How, if at all, is VA leadership organized and prepared to address IT infrastructure investment challenges at its regional processing centers in its fiscal year (FY) 2020 budget request?

8. How, if at all, is VA leadership organized and prepared to address staffing shortages across the VA system, including at the Veterans Benefits Administration that is responsible for processing claims and retroactive payments to veterans, in its FY 2020 budget request?

As always, we appreciate your support of our oversight responsibilities. Your prompt attention to this request will help us as we prepare to consider the VA’s FY 2020 budget request so that we can evaluate whether the VA has requested the appropriate resources that it needs to make timely beneficiary payments and deliver other promised care to our veterans.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=DD9FA0FD-3305-42FD-8A69-D7A4B3A2853D,Klobuchar Statement on Passing of President George H.W. Bush,2018-12-01,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the below statement following the passing of President George H.W. Bush:
America has lost a true leader. George H.W. Bush was the last World War II veteran to serve as President. He was a true statesman, and he treated both his friends and rivals with grace and dignity. He also viewed the world through the lens of history, which was often the guiding force in his approach to diplomacy. His commitment to country was unshakeable, and he instilled this value in his own children. My prayers are with the entire Bush family today.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/northbound-gates-no-longer-locked-early,Northbound Gates No Longer Locked Early,2018-11-30,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Following calls from the office of Congressman Collin C. Peterson (D-Minn.) and Roseau Mayor Jeff Pelowski, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced that northbound gates will remain open at Roseau and Pinecreek during Canada Border Security Agency service hours.
I'm glad this situation was worked out, but we still have the underlying issue of reducing U.S. service hours in Lancaster and Roseau. I will continue efforts to keep these ports open longer so U.S. and Canadian travelers won't have to rush and beat the clock each and every night, Peterson said.
The announcement followed a few nights of confusion where travelers discovered locked gates for northbound traffic heading into Canada, even though CBSA was open and ready to process incoming vehicles.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=B1BDBB64-DAB4-4E96-B8AC-1D2CF207AC99,Klobuchar Statement on EPA Release of Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) Requirements,2018-11-30,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Proposal ignores small refinery waiver misuse that undermines RFS 
  
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, issued the following statement on the release of the Environmental Protection Agency's 2018 and 2019 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volume requirements:

The renewable fuel industry supports hundreds of thousands of jobs throughout the country and cuts our reliance on foreign oil which is why we need the Renewable Fuel Standard to remain strong. The RFS requirements announced today by the Environmental Protection Agency maintain the ethanol volume requirements for 2019 and modestly increase the blend targets of advanced biofuels that will create jobs and strengthen rural communities.

However, while these numbers are in line with proposed targets, increasing the volume requirements is meaningless if the EPA continues to undermine the RFS by granting small refinery waivers to multi-billion-dollar oil companiesreducing incentives for blending, slashing demand for biofuels and feedstocks, and hurting farmers and biofuels companies. This misguided overuse of the waivers by the EPA could cripple the homegrown biofuels market for years to come. I am disappointed that the EPA refused to address the misuse of small refinery waivers and restore the gallons of biofuels that have been lost due to these exemptions.

For years, Klobuchar has led a bipartisan push for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to release a stronger RFS. In April, Klobuchar and Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) led a bipartisan group of 13 senators in urging EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt to cease issuing so-called hardship waivers exempting obligated parties from the RFS. In 2016, the former Administration issued a stronger final rule for 2017. The new standard required a record amount of biofuel to be mixed into our transportation fuel supply next year. Minnesota's twenty ethanol plants and three biodiesel plants generate roughly $5 billion in combined economic output and have made our state the fourth-largest ethanol producing state in the country.

In March, Klobuchar led a bipartisan group of senators in urging the Administration to oppose any changes that would undermine the objectives of the RFS and hinder the growth of rural economies. In October, Klobuchar and Grassley led a bipartisan group of senators in a letter to the EPA calling for a strong RFS as the Agency worked toward finalizing its rule on biofuels volume requirements for 2018 under the RFS. In the letter, the senators urged the continued implementation of the RFS as intended by Congress and the release of a strong final rule that would give consumers more choices at the pump, strengthen the economy, and make the country more secure.

As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a 2014 Farm Bill Conference Committee member, Klobuchar successfully pushed for key provisions in the current Farm Bill  including measures to support rural development projects, conservation programs, agricultural research, and the Rural Energy for America (REAP) program. Recently, her staff held public forums throughout the state to hear firsthand from Minnesotans about their priorities for the Farm Bill's 2018 reauthorization. Klobuchar regularly does Rural Economy Tours across Minnesota, meeting with local leaders from the agriculture and business communities to discuss priorities for the 2018 Farm Bill and the economic impact of a stronger RFS.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=D12DD087-B145-436F-8296-6B0D75BC9276,"Klobuchar, Sullivan Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Election Security with International Allies",2018-11-30,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Global Electoral Exchange Act would establish an international information sharing program on election security at the State Department 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) introduced bipartisan legislation to share election security information with our international allies. The Global Electoral Exchange Act would establish an international information sharing program on election security at the State Department. The program would allow for the U.S. and our international allies to exchange ideas related to best practices on issues like audits, disinformation campaigns, voter database protections and other issues critical to election administration. The bill also authorizes the State Department to provide grants to U.S. nonprofit organizations that specialize in election security and election administration for the purpose of exchanging information with similar organizations in partner countries.
Election security is national security. Our intelligence community continues to warn that our electionsand those of our alliesare a target for adversaries, Klobuchar said. This bipartisan legislation will allow the State Department to work with our allies abroad to share information, discuss best practices, and combat the growing threat of election interference to democracies around the world.
The threats to our democratic electoral process and those of other democracies across the globe should not be taken lightly, Sullivan said. This legislation takes important steps to enhance collaboration between the United States and our allies to examine best practices and ensure future elections remain fair, free and absent of foreign interference.
The Global Electoral Exchange Act will improve international election security by:
 
Authorizing the Department to provide grants to U.S. nonprofit organizations that specialize in election security and election administration for the purpose of exchanging information with similar organizations in partner countries.
Bringing foreign individuals who participate in election administration  from government officials, poll workers, members of the judiciary, and more to the United States to study election procedure for educational purposes. Additionally, U.S. election administrators, experts, and officials will be invited to study how our allies are working to protect their democracies in light of new threats from countries like Russia and Iran.
Maintaining a network Global Electoral Exchange Program Alumni at the State Department that will promote further exchanges of information. Every two years, the State Department will be required to brief the Rules Committee and the Foreign Relations Committee on the status of the program.
Require biannual reports to the Senate Committees on Foreign Relations and Rules and Administration, and House Committees on Foreign Affairs and Administration.
 
Similar legislation passed via unanimous consent in the House of Representatives; it is sponsored by Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX) and Congressman Mark Meadows (R-NC).
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-derides-abrupt-us-customs-decision-lock-gates-ports,Peterson Derides Abrupt U.S. Customs Decision to Lock Gates at Ports,2018-11-29,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Collin C. Peterson (D-Minn.) has called on the Administration to provide the resources needed to adequately staff the Ports of Entry along the U.S.-Canada border. Travelers heading into Canada were surprised Tuesday night when they discovered U.S. ports at Roseau and Lancaster were locked at 8 P.M., forcing vehicles to divert more than an hour and reroute through Pembina, ND or Warroad, MN Ports of Entry.
There are solutions available to keep our northern ports open longer, but the Administration's decision to divert significant resources from our northern border to accommodate a massive presence at our southern border is hurting our rural communities, said Congressman Peterson. I understand the need to keep our borders secure, but it shouldn't come at the expense of rural Minnesota communities. Local businesses in Roseau and Lancaster depend on Canadian traffic to spend money in their towns, and further border access restrictions only makes the problem worse.
Roseau Mayor Jeff Pelowski said, The Canadian authorities delayed their decision to reduce hours after hearing from the local community, yet our border enforcement agency is completely ignoring our needs and moving forward with one of the most ridiculous government decisions I have seen in my 20 years as an elected public official.
Border agencies on both sides are causing confusion to American and Canadian travelers. The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced a reversal in their decision to match U.S. Custom and Border Protection's (CBP) reduction in hours, and instead will keep their corresponding ports open until midnight. In the last year alone, CBP reduced hours of service and staff at the Lancaster and Roseau Ports of Entry due to the reallocation of personnel and budgeting priorities for the southern border. As the nation's overall border protection policies are being debated, Congressman Peterson urges CBP and CBSA to work out a written agreement to rectify border access problems in Roseau and Lancaster.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=33E6D57E-F4DF-47B2-AB02-4BF546F709F9,"Klobuchar, Duckworth, Van Hollen Introduce Legislation to Keep Jobs in the United States",2018-11-29,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Removing Incentives for Outsourcing Act will eliminate an unfair incentive created by the new tax law that encourages companies to send jobs overseas in order to shelter profits in foreign tax havens 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) introduced legislation to close a loophole created by the new tax law that encourages U.S. companies to move jobs and operations overseas in order to minimize their tax liability. The Removing Incentives for Outsourcing Act will eliminate an unfair incentive that allows U.S. companies to use excess foreign tax credits (FTCs) to shelter profits in tax havens.
Our tax laws should encourage American companies to keep jobs in America, not send them overseas. But the new tax law didn't stop worker layoffs in the United Statesin fact, it actually created a terrible incentive to move jobs and operations abroad to take advantage of tax havens, Klobuchar said. That's why Senators Duckworth, Van Hollen and I introduced a new bill to close that loophole and protect American workers.
Despite Republicans' claims that they would bring jobs back to America, it's clear the GOP Tax Scam is helping mega-corporations offshore jobs and costing middle-class taxpayers not only millions of dollars, but their livelihoods as well, Duckworth said. I'm proud to join Senator Klobuchar in introducing this bill to finally close this needless loophole that simply incentivizes corporations to avoid paying their fair share, and hope the Senate passes it quickly.
Instead of working to limit the offshoring of American jobs and manufacturing, the Republican tax scam made it easier and more profitable. It's shameful, and it needs to be addressed without delay. The Removing Incentives For Outsourcing Act will make it harder to ship jobs overseas and require further study on this vital issue. It's part of our commitment to making sure the tax code actually helps economic growth and working Americans  not just the wealthy and special interests, Van Hollen said.
Under current law, a U.S. corporation may use foreign tax credits (FTC) to reduce U.S. tax liability on offshore profits by whatever amount the company paid in taxes in the country in which it earned the profits. While this makes sense on a per-country basis, the new law's use of a blended or global rate provides a perverse incentive for companies to shift jobs and operations overseas in order to preserve the strategic value of tax havens.
The Removing Incentives for Outsourcing Act would fix this problem by:
 
Instituting a per-country minimum tax instead of a blended or global rate under current law. This change would remove the incentive for companies to shift U.S. jobs and physical operations overseas (to countries with tax rates similar to the U.S.) in order to preserve the value of using tax havens,
 
 
Eliminating companies' ability to deduct 10 percent of their tangible assets before the tax rate on foreign income applies. This change would end the tax incentive created by the deduction to shift operations offshore and broaden the base of the tax on Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income (GILTI), and
 
 
Requiring the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) to conduct a study of various proposals for taxing overseas income and evaluate the options according to whether the proposal minimizes opportunities for avoidance of U.S. taxes and minimizes incentives for outsourcing American jobs.
 
The recent tax overhaul was so riddled with loopholes that even the measures in the bill purporting to curb the gaming have loopholes themselves. With this legislation, Senators Klobuchar, Duckworth, and Van Hollen take direct aim at one of the biggest problems in the 2017 tax law, said Clark Gascoigne, deputy director of the Financial Accountability and Corporate Transparency (FACT) Coalition. The Removing Incentives for Outsourcing Act would make it harder for multinational corporations to artificially reduce their tax liabilities by shifting profits to tax havens like Ireland and Switzerland. Requiring that tax rates apply to multinationals' offshore profits on a per country basis is a necessary piece of any effort to end the incentive for offshore tax games. The legislation would also reduce the outrageous incentive in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that actually gives companies a larger tax break the more they move real operations and jobs offshore.
""Senator Klobuchar's Removing Incentives for Outsourcing Act is a crucial first step in repairing the damage wrought by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) on our international tax system. The bill would significantly reduce the incentives for companies to shift profits and jobs offshore to avoid paying their fair share in U.S. taxes. In fact, a recent study by Professor Kimberley Clausing found that the per-country minimum rate approach proposed by Sen. Klobuchar would reduce tax avoidance by billions of dollars each year and is two-and-a-half times as effective as the global approach in the TCJA, said Alan Essig, Executive Director of the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP).
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=48121765-0E08-4EFE-A04A-3104EAE10BDC,Klobuchar Statement on the Farm Bill,2018-11-29,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) made the following statement after a deal in principle on the Farm Bill was announced by House and Senate Agriculture Committee Chairmen and Ranking Members:
Today's announcement on the Farm Bill is a big step forward for farmers and rural families. I worked to make sure that a strong safety net is in this legislation to help Minnesota farmers and ranchers after weather disasters, and during periods of low prices and trade disruptions. Now we must come together next week and pass this important agreement so that we can provide the stability and certainty our farmers need.
Today House and Senate Agriculture Committee Chairmen and Ranking Members announced that they'd reached an agreement in principle on the 2018 Farm Bill.
Broadcast quality footage of Klobuchar's floor speech on the Farm Bill from earlier this afternoon can be found here.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=2F2B2E21-6C35-4C50-A3B0-B16129DB7C73,"Klobuchar, Smith Announce More than $74 Million Grant the Minneapolis Orange Line Bus Rapid Transit Project",2018-11-28,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith announced today that the U.S. Federal Transit Administration will allocate a $74,008,000 Capital Investment Grant to the METRO Orange Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project. The Orange Line BRT will connect downtown Minneapolis with south Minneapolis and the cities of Richfield, Bloomington and Burnsville.
Our 21st century economy demands 21st century infrastructure, Klobuchar said. This investment will allow for greater mobility in the Twin Cities, giving residents more options to travel between work, school, and the area's many businesses and cultural institutions. This project will create good-paying jobs and spur additional investments in the region's economy.
This is great news for Minnesota's economic future, Smith said. The Orange Line BRT is not only an important investment in the region's transportation infrastructure and its economic development, but it also will connect hundreds of thousands of people each year to jobs, businesses and other opportunities across the Metro area. It represents a boost to our state's quality of life.
 This grant will fund construction of the 17 mile highway bus rapid transit project. The Orange Line will feature frequent, all-day service in both directions, seven days a week. This project will provide the residents and businesses along the route with a reliable transit connection to job centers throughout the region. The project includes highway improvements and upgraded station amenities for transit users.
 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=5C7FFC1C-A401-44F3-969D-B9486A1FE71D,"During National Adoption Month, Klobuchar, Blunt Introduce Legislation to Support Adoptive Families",2018-11-28,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senators introduce bipartisan legislation that will help provide pre- and post- adoption support services, including mental health treatment, to help adoptive families stay strong 
WASHINGTON During National Adoption Month, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Roy Blunt (R-MO), co-chairs of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, introduced legislation to support adoptive families. The senators reintroduced their bipartisan bill  the Supporting Adoptive Families Act  that will help provide pre- and post-adoption support services, including mental health treatment, to help adoptive families stay strong.
Minnesotans have a long and proud tradition of adoption, providing loving homes to children from all around the globe, Klobuchar said. Our bipartisan Supporting Adoptive Families Act will help provide families with counseling and support throughout the adoption process to ensure a smooth and successful transition for children and their parents.
Every child deserves a loving family and the stability of a permanent home, Blunt said. This bill will provide families additional tools and support services to help them achieve a successful adoption. I'll continue advocating for policies that will help ensure adoption remains a viable option for families who are able to give children a safe, caring home.
The Supporting Adoptive Families Act would help prevent children from entering the foster care system through the provision of pre- and post-adoptive support services. Specifically, the bill promotes:
 
training and counseling on behavioral issues, including issues relating to emotional, behavioral, or developmental health needs;
peer-to-peer mentoring and support groups that permit a newly adoptive parent to communicate and learn from more experienced adoptive parents, including programs that enhance communication between adoptive parents with children of similar geographic, ethnic, or cultural backgrounds;
treatment services specialized for adopted children, including psychiatric residential services, outpatient mental health services, social skills training, intensive in-home supervision services, recreational therapy, suicide prevention, and substance abuse treatment; and
crisis and family preservation services, including crisis counseling and a 24-hour emergency hotline for adoptive parents.
 
The bill also directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to eligible entities to develop and implement state-sponsored post-adoption mental health service programs for all adopted children.
As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Adoption Caucus, Klobuchar and Blunt have been leaders in the fight to give every child a permanent home. Earlier this month, they encouraged Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Lynn Johnson, to raise awareness for National Adoption Month, which began November 1st. In August, Klobuchar and Blunt introduced legislation to improve the intercountry adoption process. The bipartisanIntercountry Adoption Advisory Committee Actprovides the Secretary of State the authority to establish an Intercountry Adoption Advisory Committee within the Bureau of Consular Affairs to focus on coordinating the development, refinement, and implementation of policies and programs on intercountry adoption. In June, they sent a letter urging the Bureau of Consular Affairs at the U.S. Department of State (DOS) to ensure that the dialogue between the DOS, Congress, and the Adoption Service Providers (ASPs) continues and that members and experts in the adoption community are consulted in efforts to develop and implement policies that advance intercountry adoption.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-11212018,Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 11/21/2018,2018-11-26,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friends,
This week, folks across the nation will celebrate Thanksgiving. It is tradition that we use this holiday to gather with loved ones and express gratitude for the many blessings we have. As we celebrate, let us remember those who have worked to produce our Thanksgiving meal and those who have sacrificed to guarantee our freedom to enjoy it. I am thankful for all the friendship, hard work, and support Minnesotans have shown me over the years. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in Congress and have a happy Thanksgiving!
Sincerely,
Congressman Collin C. Peterson  Minnesota 7th District
 Celebrating 100 Years of Minnesota Farm Organizations 
The Minnesota Farmers Union and the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation hosted their annual gatherings last weekend. The Minnesota Farm Bureau hosted their 100th Annual Meeting and the Minnesota Farmers Union celebrated their 100th year of serving Minnesota at their 77th Annual Convention. I attended both events on Saturday to speak to members about my work on the House Agriculture Committee, the Farm Bill, and my expectations for the 116th Congress. Both annual events are a great opportunity for members to gather and meet others from around the state. Regional and national experts came to address the members about a range of issues affecting farmers and rural communities. Members of both organizations took this chance to collectively discuss ideas and set priorities for 2019.
 Lorraine Cecil 
  Photo courtesy of Ted Fiskevold
On Saturday, a dear friend, Lorraine Cecil, celebrated her 90th birthday and I was pleased to be able to join family and friends at her party in Bemidji. Lorraine retired from her position at Bemidji State University back in 1993, but she has remained active in her community since then and has served as a mentor to many young men and women who have spent time studying and working in Bemidji. Lorraine has also been one of the few people I can count on to give me advice and set me straight when I need it. It was an honor to celebrate her 90 years and I wish her much happiness and good health in the years ahead.
 Calyxt 
  Global Regulatory Director Chloe Pavely
Chloe Pavely of Calyxt met with my staff aide Rebekah Solem last week to talk about the work of this technologically innovative, Minnesota-based company that went public last year. The company's mission is to produce nutritious food and ingredients while putting people first, seeking to use modern technologies as solutions to address today's challenges in a transparent way. For example, the company is working on a high oleic soybean that has unique nutritional properties. Calyxt is working with local soybean growers and crushers on this product.
 Mental Health Care Grants Awarded 
Congratulations to Greater Minnesota Family Services, in partnership with Southwest West Central Service Coop in Marshall, on receiving $421,992 through a School Innovation Grant. With many kids coping with trauma, these grants will be a big help to Minnesota families, said Minnesota Human Services Commissioner Emily Piper. These grants are for intermediate school districts and will provide more access to mental health care for the children that need it most.
 Thanksgiving Food Safety 
Last Thanksgiving, Americans consumed an estimated 46 million turkeys. As you celebrate the holiday season, be sure to always follow safe food handling and preparation guidelines to protect your family from foodborne illness. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has prepared Let's Talk Turkey  A Consumer Guide to Safely Roasting a Turkey that can assist you in safely preparing your Thanksgiving bird. USDA also operates their Meat & Poultry Hotline (1-888-674-6854) that you can call for any last-minute cooking advice.
 This Week in American History 
  Minnesota Governor Stephen Miller, 1865
On November 24, 1864, Governor Stephen Miller declared a Thanksgiving holiday. This proclamation was in accordance with President Abraham Lincoln's recommendation that the last Thursday in November be used for this purpose. Minnesota had Thanksgiving Day before this declaration, but the holiday was usually celebrated in December. The nation would later debate when to host the holiday until President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an Act of Congress in 1942, making the 4th Thursday in November the national Thanksgiving Day.
 What's the Story? 
Minnesota's 7th District is home to more than 30,000 farms of different shapes, sizes and specialties. According to USDA's Census of Agriculture, the 7th District is the number 1 producer of turkeys and sugarbeets in the United States and the number 4 producer of agricultural products overall. Agriculture is vital to Minnesota's economy and culture, and it is important to remember the hard work that goes into providing an abundant food supply for Americans.
  Terri, Doug and Josh Magnusson toured the U.S. Capitol with our office this week",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-mccollum-announces-winner-2018-congressional-app-challenge,Representative McCollum Announces Winner of  2018 Congressional App Challenge,2018-11-26,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,,,legacy,"On Monday, Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL  Minn.) visited an East Ridge High School engineering class to congratulate student Archit Das for winning the inaugural Fourth Congressional District App Challenge.The app, called Happy Weight!, was chosen by a panel of technology experts from the Fourth Congressional District.Designed to help users lead a healthier lifestyle, the app allows users to track their weight and measure their progress against their weight goals. Das was inspired to create Happy Weight! after learning about how much money Americans spend on treating obesity related illnesses.As winner of this year's competition, Das will receive Amazon Web Service Credits and may have his entry featured in a display at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC.
During her visit to East Ridge, Congresswoman McCollum also congratulated App Challenge finalist Raj Patel for his app titled DayCare, which helps people learn about and counter the effects of depression, anxiety, and stress.
Other finalists include:
Ryan Hill from Mounds View High School who created the app Server Side, which helps people who do not know how to code make their own servers,
Grace andCindy Sufrom Mounds View High School and Chippewa Middle School who created TutorMe, an app that could help students in need of tutors find and schedule appointments with tutors willing to help,
and Chloe Narr from Hill Murray who created the app The Coffee Shoppe, which allows people to order coffee in advance and pick it up at a coffee shop in her community.
It is a pleasure to congratulate Archit Das as the winner of the inaugural Fourth Congressional District App Challenge, and recognize the other finalists!My office and our panel of judges were blown away with the creativity and quality of entries, said Congresswoman McCollum. Students in Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District excel in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), and that was apparent when viewing their impressive submissions. All students who entered should be extremely proud of their creativity and hard work. It is exciting to host this competition to foster the next generation of technology superstars.
Judges for the this year's competition were Sharon Kennedy Vickers, Ted Kozlowski, Chad Poser and Steven Yetter.
Sharon Kennedy Vickers is the Chief Information Officer for the City of Saint Paul. She has had leading roles in organizing technology conferences, hackathons, and other initiatives to make Minnesota the best place in the country to launch and grow technology products.
Ted Kozlowski is the Mayor of the City of Stillwater and founder and president of the DemandQuest Marketing Institute.A Silicon Valley Veteran, Kozlowski is a seasoned technology sales and marketing executive.
Steven Yetter and Chad Poser both work for 3M in Maplewood Minnesota.Yetter is 3M's Mobile App Developer and Poser is a 3M Application Architect.
The Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide STEAM competition where students create an application or app for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, or other devices.Fourth Congressional District middle and high school students are encouraged to enter next year's competition by submitting an app of their own creation by mid-September, 2019.Students are teachers can find more information about the competition at mccollum.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/bankruptcy-murder-loons-wages-and-franksgiving,"Bankruptcy, murder, loons, wages and Franksgiving",2018-11-26,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Rick Nolan,N000127,nolan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Endless Wars of Choice Are Bankrupting Our Nation - The New Congress Must Put a Stop to Them 

	Click on the screen above to hear my remarks on the floor of the House urging passage of my amendment to defund endless wars of choice and start reinvesting in America and our people.
Dear Friend,
Endless wars of choice are bankrupting our Nation,draining away money we desperately need here at home for education, medical research, human development, rebuilding our infrastructure, and so many other unmet needs.In my judgment,defunding these wars should be Job Onefor the incoming Congress in January.
The simple truth is, our national priorities are totally out of whack.Military spending,when adjusted for inflation, hasincreased by nearly 50 percentsince 9-11. By comparison, spending onnon-military items things like education, health care, public transit and science grew by only 13.5 percentover that same period.
The cost of these endless wars of choice, in both blood and treasury, is shocking. Over the past 17 years, our military involvement in Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan and Syria alone has already cost us almost$6 trillion.And when the costs of borrowing that money and taking care of those who have lost arms and legs and, in many cases, their mental and physical health in combat, the cost jumps tonearly $16 trillionover the next 35 years. Meanwhile, according to a new Brown University study,480,000 people have lost their livesin these conflicts, and some 10 million more have been displaced.
As I have pointed out during meetings and conversations with incoming Members of Congress, the best way to put a stop to endless wars of choice that have cost us so much blood and treasury is tocut off their funding.In fact, that's exactly what we tried to do last spring on the floor of the U.S House. During debate on the 2019 National Defense Authorization bill, I was able to introducean amendment to de-fund the Overseas Contingency Operationsaccount the Pentagon uses to pay for these wars, and save U.S. taxpayers$69 billionnext fiscal year alone.
The amendment did not succeed. However, the very fact that Republican leaders allowed the measure to be considered is evidence that Democrats and Republicans alike are growing increasingly fed up by the waste and carnage these wars produce.
During my speech on the floor of the House last May, I posed a question to my colleagues:Do we want to be having this same debate ten years from now, having spent another ten or eleven trillion dollars on these endless wars of choice and so-called nation building abroad?No one raised a hand to say yes.
We will keep you posted as events proceed. Meanwhile, I want to hear your thoughts. Feel free to contact any of our offices listed below orsend me an email.
Sincerely,  
   The President's Thanksgiving Week - Pardoning Two Innocent Turkeys and a Gang of Saudi Murderers 

	Candles and pictures of murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi are placed outside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul,Turkey. According to the CIA, Khashoggi was killed inside the building by a Saudi assassination squad acting under orders from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The President marked Thanksgiving week by upholding the traditional pardon of two innocent turkeys  and byabandoningour American tradition of moral leadership.He turned a blind eye to the conclusion of our own CIA and intelligence community that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ordered thebrutal murderof Washington Post columnist and Saudi regime critic Jamal Khashoggi.
In doing so, the President chose to ignore audio recordings of Khashoggi's murder, intercepted phone calls, and copiousintelligence briefings by CIA Director Gina Haspeldescribing details of the crown prince's involvement.
Instead, he made it clear that personal relationships with the Saudi royal family, business as usual Saudi oil sales to the United States, andbillions of dollars in U.S. arms sales to Saudi Arabia, were more important than holding thugs and murderers to account for their actions. What an outrage.
As established by our Founders,America's leadership in the worldhas always been based on an unqualified commitment to the ideals of democracy, freedom of the press, and the rule of law.We cannot allow our great nation to lose the moral high groundand become just another country embracing thugs and murderers for profit and economic gain.
   With Loons an Endangered Species in the Lower 48 States, Funding Support Grows for National Loon Center in Crosslake MN 

	These artists drawings show what the National Loon Center could look like on the outside and inside.
With theiconic Minnesota Loonon the Audubon Society's list of endangered species here in the lower 48 states, the National Loon Center Foundation is leading efforts to help save and protect our State Bird by establishing aNational Loon Center in the city of Crosslake, Minnesota.
Together with the Foundation, progress is being made toward assembling several million dollars for the Center from the state and federal governments, the University of Minnesota, foundations, citizens, and other private sources.
Specifically, the National Loon Center would bedevoted to restoring and protecting loon habitats, researching ways to advance the wellbeing of loons, repairing shoreline, enhancing water quality, boosting environmental recreation, and educating the public on best practices for preserving loon populations.
Theproject and timing are criticalbecause our loons are beingthreatened as never before by climate change, the BP oil spill, water pollution, and diseases spread by invasive zebra mussels.
Onthe federal level, theU.S. Army Corps of Engineershas entered into a memorandum of agreement toprovide$2.6 million worth of landon the White Fish chain of lakes. TheGulf Spill Restoration Fund provided by BP Oil Company to help alleviate the terrible damages caused by the 2010 BP oil spill  will add$450,000 dollarsfor the Center as part of a $7.52 million package awarded to the State of Minnesota and designated to help the loons recover from damage suffered while migrating in the Gulf of Mexico.
On the state level, the Center is on track to receive$4 million dollarsfrom the Legislature via theEnvironmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund, which is paid for through proceeds from theMinnesota Lottery. In addition to private money from supporters, theUniversity of Minnesotaalso contributed$55,000 dollarsfor the now complete project engineering feasibility study.
Meanwhile, as I have pointed out before, invasivezebra musselsspread deadly infections to ourMinnesota loonsand destroy sport and commercial fishing habitat. My amendment to theWater Resources Development Act, signed into law earlier this fall, directs the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to accelerate the battle against these invaders, along with Asian carp and hundreds of other species attacking our lakes, rivers, waterways and wildlife.
   Wrong Mr. President  Boosting the Federal Minimum Wage to $15 Dollars an Hour Is Sensible  Not Silly 

	Editorial cartoonist Monte Wolverton nails it. Corporate profits are at an all time high while minimum wage workers struggle to make ends meet.
The President and his top economic advisor,millionaire Wall Street financier Larry Kudlow, ought to spend less time bragging about newly created jobs, and more time connecting with thereal world, where it often takes two or three of those jobs just to make a living.
Demonstratingcluelessnessabout how millions of low-income Americans struggle every day just to put food on the table, Kudlow recently told the Washington Post that in his view, the federal minimum wage  enacted byPresident Franklin Rooseveltand Congressional Democrats in 1938  is a terrible idea, and that increasing it would be silly.
What nonsense.It is a moral imperative that anyone willing to go to work eight hours a day, 40 hours a week, be entitled to aliving wageand a secure and comfortable life.No one should have to hold two or three jobsin order to live in a nice home, pay the bills, put some money away for retirement, and have a little left over at the end of the week for a movie, a meal out, or a trip to the lake to wet a fishing line.
That's why, earlier this year, I joined as an original cosponsor of the Raise the Wage Act toboost the minimum wage to $15.00an hour by 2024  and index it to gradually increase starting in 2025.
The simple fact is, the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour hasmillions stuck in poverty. This is especially true for theworking womenwho make up70 percent of minimum wage earners in many cases young mothers who barely break even after child care expenses.
In fact, the University of California's Center for Poverty Research reports that a single parent with one child working 40 hours a week at a minimum wage job will earnbelow the federal poverty line of $16,070.
That must end.
Beyond the fact that raising the minimum wage is the fair and decent thing to do, it's alsocommonsense economics.Minimum wage earners spend the money they make locally, on groceries, fuel, and other necessities of life. That's good for business, good for jobs, good for communities and good for everyone.
   Our Week in St. Paul 

	My Field Representative Rick Olseen attended the promotion of Lieutenant Colonel Joe Sharkey of the Minnesota National Guard to Colonel. Rick Olseen has worked with the Colonel for the last six years with my offices work with the National Guard. The ceremony was in the Veterans Service Building overlooking the State Capital in St. Paul.
 Our Week in Lindstrom 

	Our Vietnam Soldiers Remembered, is a display open right now at the Chisago County Historical Society in Lindstrom. With the photos and items on display it highlights how horrible war is, what's really moving is the stories from men and women who served in Vietnam. My Field Representative Rick Olseen visited recently. The hours are on their website.
 Our Week in Nisswa 

	The City of Nisswa held their annual City of Lights celebration last week, and crowds gathered to meet the live reindeer that helped make the day special. Nolan Congressional Field Representative Tiffany Stenglein was on hand taking pictures.
   Coming Up in Washington 
This week:
 The House is expected to pass a Coast Guard reauthorization bill and send it to the President.
    Finally... 
 On This Day in History, November 26, 1941
	From ""Franksgiving"" back to ""Thanksgiving"" 

	President Roosevelt carves the turkey after signing legislation officially designating Thanksgiving to be on the last Thursday of November.
Undoingthe change that became known as Franksgiving, on November 26, 1941,President Franklin D. Rooseveltsigned legislation forever designating the last Thursday in November as America's official Thanksgiving Day. Now here's the rest of the story as explained on the websitehistoryextra.com.
In 1939, with the last Thursday in November falling on the last day of the month, President Roosevelt became concerned that the shortened Christmas shopping season might dampen economic recovery. He therefore issued aPresidential Proclamationmoving Thanksgiving to the second to last Thursday of November.
Some 32 states consequently issued similar proclamations, but16 states refusedto accept the change. As a result, for two years two days were celebrated as Thanksgiving.
To end the confusion, onOctober 6, 1941 Congress set a fixed date for the holiday: it passed a joint resolution declaring the last Thursday in November to be the legalThanksgiving Day.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/young-smart-aggressive-and-diverse,"Young, smart, aggressive, and diverse",2018-11-26,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Rick Nolan,N000127,nolan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Welcoming Newly-Elected Members of Congress to Washington  
It was great seeing all the new faces in Washington last week. Here I am with (left to right) Congresswoman-elect Ilhan Omar, Congressman-elect Dean Phillips, and Congresswoman-elect Angie Craig. With leadership like this, I am confident that Minnesota's best days are ahead.
Dear Friend,
Preparing to retire from Congress at age 75, I could not be more excited or optimistic about the freshmen class of newly-elected Members who arrived in Washington last week for their orientation.At 90strong, they are the most new faces since theWatergate Congress of 1975 when at age 33, I joined 49 other newly-elected Democrats to begin my first period of Congressional service.
Today's new Members are also young  the new Congress will beten years youngeron average  smart, aggressive and diverse. On the Democratic side, the 116thCongress will include28 new women, including two who are Muslim, 12 new people of color, two new Native Americans, one new LGBTQ Member, and six new military Veterans.
Meeting with them, it's clear that they are determined to make a difference, change the way we do politics, and addresslong-neglected issuesincluding reducing the cost ofhealth care, passing realtax relieffor the middle class, reformingimmigration, and putting a stop to endlesswars of choicethat are projected to cost nearly$20 trillionover the next two decades.
Having just come off a campaign season during which more than$5.2 billionwas spent  much of it by outside groups buying negative and false TV ads  many are eager to pass a Constitutional Amendment overturning theU.S Supreme Court's Citizens United decision.Citizens United has allowed countless billions of dollars from special interest groups to poison our campaigns and erode public confidence in our leaders and our public policymaking process.
Moreover, new and returning Members of both sides of the aisle are already demanding that Congress become a much more democratic institution, with a return to the traditional system of Regular Order. UnderRegular Order, every bill and amendment must be considered under an open rule and given an up or down vote. That is how we embrace bipartisanship, find common ground, solve problems, and get things done.
As these new Members of Congress will soon realize, our Nation's founders gave us a system in which change is possible, but rarely quick or easy.We wish them wellin their efforts to advance America's highest ideals.
We will keep you posted as events proceed. Meanwhile, I want to hear your thoughts. Feel free to contact any of our offices listed below orsend me an email.
Sincerely,  
   Major Boost in Federal Cancer Research Funding Set for 2019 We are making progress in funding for research into lung cancer, the deadliest of all cancers
   Click on the screen above to hear me address the Life and Breath rally in front of the U.S. Capitol. Hundreds of lung cancer survivors, family members and supporters joined our daughter Katherine and me and other members of our Congressional Lung Cancer Caucus for this event to point out that lung cancer is a national emergency.
November isLung Cancer Awareness Month. Over the years, I've made it a mission to help accelerate the war on cancer  and specifically boost federal funding for urgently needed research into lung cancer, the deadliest of all cancers. Last year, I passed two bipartisan amendments that added$5.8 million for lung cancer research.
This year, we added another$6 millionoriginally intended for the Pentagon's lung cancer research program. While this funding increase was ultimately rejected by the Republicans in final budget negotiations, theNational Cancer Institute(NCI)saw amuch bigger boostfor cancer research.
Specifically, the FY 2019 Defense Appropriations Act included $5.74 billion for NCI, a$79 million increaseover FY 2018. NCI also received$400 millionin FY 2019 for the Beau Biden Cancer Moonshot, which was authorized in the 21st Century Cures Act I strongly supported in 2016.
Theentire budget for cancer researchat the National Institutes of Health (NIH) next year is projected to be about$5.74billion, with about$282 million targeted specifically for lung cancer.
Meeting earlier this year withNIH Director Dr. Francis Collins, I urged him to prioritize lung cancer research at the National Cancer Institute.
(In September, Congress increased funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by $2 billion to $39.1 billion  $4.3 billion more than the President's initial request.)
Hopefully, the incoming Congress will continue our efforts toboost lung cancer research at the Pentagonfrom the current $14 million to at least $20 million  its original level when the program was initiated several years ago. Beyond what's being accomplished at NIH, these funds are targeted to special lung cancer research linked to theunique exposures to cancer-causing substances our military experiencein and out of combat.
In fact, an extensive study conducted by the prestigiousWalter Reed Medical Centerhas concluded that our military Veterans are up to 75 percent more likely to develop lung cancer than people who do not serve in the military. We know that is largely due to high rates of exposure to carcinogens like asbestos, diesel fuel, depleted uranium, and, of course,Agent Orangefrom the Vietnam era.
   Why Are So Many Young Women Who Don't Smoke Getting Lung Cancer? 

	Our youngest daughter, Katherine, and I have made it our mission to help boost federal funding for research to better prevent, diagnose, treat, and ultimately find a cure for lung cancer  and to spread awareness of this disease. Katherine is a four-year survivor of Stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer, with no known risk factors.
We need to find out why lung cancer  the deadliest of all cancers  has become epidemic among young women, the great majority of whom don't smoke. Here in the United States, an average of193 women die each day of lung cancer  one every 7 minutes. Our own youngest daughter, Katherine, is a four-year survivor of Stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer, with no known risk factors.
Knowledge and fundingare the keys to winning the battle against lung cancer. So as co-chairs and co-founders of the Congressional Lung Cancer Caucus,New Jersey Republican Congressman Frank LoBiondoand I have reintroduced our bipartisanWomen and Lung Cancer Research and Preventive Services Act.
This legislation requires the Department of Health and Human Services to conduct acomprehensive study on women and lung cancerin order to answer the question: Why it is that women, many of whom have never smoked in their lives, are being diagnosed with lung cancer at such an extreme rate?
More specifically, the study would evaluate and recommend the best ways toaccelerate researchon women and lung cancer, boost access to preventative services, and develop strong and effectivepublic awarenessand education campaigns.
RepublicanSenator Marco Rubioof Florida and DemocraticSenator Dianne Feinsteinof California have teamed to introduce the bipartisan Senate companion bill to our House measure.
   Hard-Earned Worker Pensions Must be Protected 

	It's easy to get worked up for a good cause, as I clearly did at this press conference announcing introduction of the Butch Lewis Act to ensure that no retiree's hard-earned pension would ever be cut  not by one dime!
Hats off to all theMinnesota Teamsters, and so many other Union members and supporters who came to Washington last week to demand that Congress take action to protect their hard-earned pensions.As a Teamster, I was proud to help lead the successful effort to stop drastic cuts by the Central States Pension Fundthat would have left hundreds of thousands of Teamsters with only a fraction of the pensions they have earned and paid into over a lifetime of work.
The workers kept their part of the bargain. They faithfully contributed every dollar they had contracted for. However, some13,000 companies did NOT paytheir pension obligationsinto the Central States Pension Fund. It is simply preposterous to suggest that the working Americans who honored their contracts should be the ones to suffer for this corporate irresponsibility. Had those companies fulfilled their obligations, Central States would be in good shape today.
And as I have pointed out many times before,Central States is only the tip of the iceberg. Whether by mergers and bankruptcies, or mismanagement or malfeasance, thousands of employers have failed to meet their contractual obligations. And as a result,more than 500 multi-employer pension funds are in serious trouble.
That's why I'm championingThe Butch Lewis Actin the House. The measure, named after an Ohio Teamster, would establish a mechanism through the U.S. Treasuryto ensure thatno retiree's hard-earned pension would ever be cut not by one dime!
As a co-founder and co-chair of the newPension Protection for Working Americans Caucusin House,I've also taken the lead on a complementary bill to prevent companies that merge or go bankrupt from reneging on their obligations to millions of workers and retirees.
Among other things, theKeep Our Pension Promises Actensures thatwhen a company merges or goes bankrupt, their pension obligations to their workers are put at the top of the list of things to be paid  not the bottom of the list.
Make no mistake about it.We will not rest until every single worker is assured of receiving every single dime and dollar of their hard-earned pensions.
   Building Support to Rescue the Common Loon Before They Become Extinct in North America 
  Challenged by the effects of climate change, the BP oil spill, pollution, and diseases spread byinvasive zebramussels, the Minnesota Common Loon is on theAudubon Society's list of species whose existence isendangered in North America.
With that in mind, our daughter Leah Nolan-Heggerston - representing the National Loon Center Foundation - and Ispent part of last week meeting with officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, the Department of Interior, Environmental Pollution Control Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the United States Department of Agriculture to discuss our mission to construct a research and education center for the Common Loon inCrosslake, Minnesota. 
We also met with several Members of Congress to discuss this important effort, includingMinnesotaCongresswoman Betty McCollum (D) and California Congressman Ken Calvert (R).Thecenter would be devoted to restoring and protecting loon habitats, repairing shoreline, infrastructure, enhancing water quality, boosting environmental recreation, and educating the public on best practices for preserving loon populations.
   Our Week in DC 

	Last week, I met with several representatives of the University of Minnesota Leadership Education in Neurodevelopment Disabilities (LEAP) to discuss the Reauthorization of the Autism Cares Act, which was last reauthorized in 2014. Reauthorizing the Autism Cares Act would increase the federal government's response to the growing number of individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders - ultimately improving quality of life and reducing human and financial costs associated with this disorder.
 Our Week in Duluth 

	My District Director Jeff Anderson spoke to the Duluth Chamber of Commerce 2019 Leadership Duluth class about the role of Congress and the legislative process. Jeff highlighted my successful legislative efforts to stop logging trucks from using downtown Duluth streets and to instead use the federal interstate.
 Our Week in North Branch 
  Susan Taylor from Family Pathways spoke at the Chisago County Senior Center in North Branch about recognizing Dementia symptoms. My Field Representative Rick Olseen also spoke on Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid and Senior Scams.
 Our Week in Brainerd 

	Brainerd area residents gathered to honor veterans and celebrate the 100thanniversary of the end of World War I. In this photo, the Honor Guard from the American Legion, VFW, and DAV post the colors and give a 21-gun salute. Nolan Congressional Field Representative Tiffany Stenglein attended the ceremony on my behalf.

	Brainerd's Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee hosted a community design session. Attendees moved through several stations and weighed in on different ideas for the city, including expanding the public library, installing more planters downtown, and increasing housing. Nolan Congressional Field Representative Tiffany Stenglein attended the meeting and took this picture.
 Our Week in Chisholm 

	Chisholm's Broadband Coalition met this week to discuss new project initiatives. Members include representatives from the Chisholm School District, the Chisholm Economic Development Authority, the Minnesota Discovery Center, the Blandin Foundation, and surrounding businesses and residents. Nolan Congressional Field Representative Tom Whiteside attended the meeting on my behalf.
   Finally... 
 Minnesota ranks #2 in the Nation for volunteering. 

	Did you know Minnesota was ranked #2 according to a recent study done by the Corporation for National and Community Service? The Volunteering in America data shows that Minnesota loves to volunteer - paying it forward to those who need it most! Minnesotans gave back to their communities last year, providing millions of dollars worth of economic value to the state. Are you ready to give back to your community? You can visitserve.govto go volunteer now!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=EF7135D3-50DF-44F2-AA4A-289F992AADFB,"Klobuchar, Wicker Call for Examination of Increased Number of Chronic Wasting Disease Cases by U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Interior",2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In a bipartisan letter, the senators ask Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue, and Secretary of the Interior, Ryan Zinke, to conduct an extensive examination of Chronic Wasting Disease 
 Chronic Wasting Disease is a contagious neurological disorder that affects deer and elk, posing a serious threat to deer populations across the country 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) led a bipartisan letter to Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue and Secretary of the Interior, Ryan Zinke, urging the Department of Agriculture and Department of the Interior to conduct an extensive examination of chronic wasting disease (CWD). CWD is a contagious neurological disorder that affects deer, elk, and other cervids and already poses a serious threat to deer populations across the country. The frequency of CWD has grown and now been identified in as many as 25 states and three Canadian provinces.
We suggest that your two departments assign senior staff to expand the examination of CWD, particularly as an issue for deliberation with the Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation Council (HSSCC), the senators wrote.
The HSSCC is co-chartered by U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of the Interior under the Federal Advisory Committee Act. It is an ideal venue to assess current efforts at the Department of the Interior with respect to surveillance mapping and at the Department of Agriculture for developing standards for interstate transport of deer and elk. We believe your agency experts, representatives from states and tribes, and the HSSCC can identify needs for national policy on this matter.
In addition to Klobuchar and Wicker, the letter was also signed by Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Bob Casey (D-PA), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tina Smith (D-MN), and John Thune (R-SD).
The full text of the letter can be found below:
Dear Secretary Perdue and Secretary Zinke:
Thank you for your efforts to identify and contain chronic wasting disease (CWD). As part of your ongoing efforts, we ask that you conduct an extensive examination of this dangerous disease.
CWD is a contagious neurological disorder that affects deer, elk, and other cervids, and it already poses a serious threat to deer populations. CWD has steadily spread since its initial discovery in a mule deer herd at a Colorado research facility in the late 1960s. It has now been identified in as many as 25 states, as well as three Canadian provinces.
The challenge of addressing CWD is twofold. First, no live test for CWD exists, so the detection and confirmation of the disease is only possible post-mortem when the disease has already spread. The only practicable means of control in this situation is to conduct a major culling of the infected population. Second, without a live test, there is no way to know whether the interstate transportation of deer and other cervids will bring CWD to new areas.
Meanwhile, the frequency of CWD detection has grown in infected areas, and new positive tests are being reported as deer hunting seasons begin around the country. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks has confirmed two more cases of CWD in the past month. Minnesota's Board of Animal Health announced this past week that a captive deer facility once again tested positive for CWD. And in Wisconsin, the percentage of deer testing positive for CWD has increased tenfold from 2005 (0.72%) to 2016 (7.3%), with some areas of the state reporting between 30-50% prevalence levels.
This level of loss is already threatening deer and elk hunting, which are extremely popular in the United States. More than 9 million Americans participate in these activities annually, which are estimated to contribute more than $20 billion in economic activity, tax revenues, and license sales. Hunting is also a key element of science-based wildlife conservation.
We suggest that your two departments assign senior staff to expand the examination of CWD, particularly as an issue for deliberation with the Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation Council (HSSCC). The HSSCC is co-chartered by U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of the Interior under the Federal Advisory Committee Act. It is an ideal venue to assess current efforts at the Department of the Interior with respect to surveillance mapping and at the Department of Agriculture for developing standards for interstate transport of deer and elk. We believe your agency experts, representatives from states and tribes, and the HSSCC can identify needs for national policy on this matter.
Thank you for your consideration of this letter.
Sincerely,
  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=272D1F38-5640-42D0-80AC-44174F2AF871,"Klobuchar-Backed Amy, Vicky and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018 Passes the Senate and Heads to the President’s Desk to be Signed into Law",2018-11-20,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The bipartisan legislation improves the process for child pornography victims to seek restitution from defendants and gives child pornography trafficking victims the alternative of a one-time payment from the existing Crime Victims Fund 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) announced that the Amy, Vicky and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018 has unanimously passed the Senate and now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. The bipartisan legislation, led by Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) and introduced alongside Senators Klobuchar (D-MN), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Pat Toomey (R-PA), improves the process for child pornography victims to seek restitution from defendants and gives child pornography trafficking victims the alternative of a one-time payment from the existing Crime Victims Fund.
Child pornography and trafficking are unacceptable, and these much needed reforms will help support the victims of these terrible crimes, Klobuchar said. The Senate passed this bipartisan legislation unanimously and we will continue the fight to protect trafficking victims.'
I'm thrilled the Senate and the House have passed this important bill. This is a momentous day and many years in the making. Hatch said. This bipartisan legislation will help provide meaningful assistance for child pornography victims to support their recovery and allow them to reclaim their lives. I am proud of this bill and look forward to seeing it signed into law.
Sexual abuse and exploitation of children are indefensible and heinous crimes. Victims like Amy will be affected for the rest of their lives, said Toomey. I'm pleased that the House and Senate came together and passed this bill to improve access to restitution for victims from the sick individuals who produce, distribute, and possess this exploitative filth.
The bill is named after victims depicted in some of the most widely circulated child pornography series in the world. Amy, Vicky, and Andy all strongly support the bill.
Additional cosponsors include Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), John Boozman (R-AR), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Tom Cotton (R-AR), John McCain (R-AZ), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Bob Casey (D-PA), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), John Hoeven (R- ND), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), John Kennedy (R-LA), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Ed Markey (D-MA), and Marco Rubio (R-FL).
The Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act includes the following provisions:
 
Findings that focus on the unique nature of child pornography crime and how it harms victims
A more relevant and predictable definition of full amount of a victim's losses
Restitution

Child pornography production: victims receive full amount of their total losses
Child pornography trafficking: victims receive from each defendant a minimum of $3,000

Compensation

Victims of child pornography trafficking are entitled to receive a one-time payment of $35,000 in defined monetary assistance (which is indexed to inflation) from a Child Pornography Victims Reserve (CPVR) within the federal Crime Victims Fund (CVF)
Caps fees for attorneys representing a victim seeking defined monetary assistance at 15%
The court must assess defendants in child pornography cases to contribute to the CPVR: up to $17,000 for possession, up to $35,000 for distribution, and up to $50,000 for production crimes
The CPVR will be capped at $10 million

Victims of child pornography trafficking will enjoy the same priority in restitution payments as victims in other restitution statutes
Child pornography victims have equal rights with criminal defendants to review the child pornography depicting them at a government facility or court for the purposes of furnishing expert testimony
The Department of Justice must deliver a report to Congress within two years after passage about the Act's implementation including an assessment of the funding levels for the Child Pornography Victims Reserve
 
Additionally, the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Act has been endorsed by the National Organization for Victim Assistance, National Association of Attorneys General, National Crime Victims Law Institute, National District Attorneys Association, National Center for Victims of Crime, National Association of VOCA Assistance Administrators, National Crime Victims Bar Association, CHILD USA, RAINN, APSAC in partnership with The New York Foundling, Enough is Enough, Thorn, Academy on Violence and Abuse, DV LEAP, Utah Crime Victims Legal Clinic, Utah Coalition against Sexual Assault, and the Children's Justice Fund.
As a member of the Senate Judiciary and Commerce Committees, Klobuchar has been a leader in the fight to combat human trafficking. Last year, the bipartisan Abolish Human Trafficking Act she introduced with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) passed the Senate. The legislation strengthens and reauthorizes key programs that support survivors of human trafficking and provide resources to federal, state, and local law enforcement officials on the front lines of the fight against modern-day slavery. The bipartisan Trafficking Victims Protection Act Klobuchar and Cornyn introduced with Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) also passed the Senate last year. The legislation would establish and reauthorize critical programs to prevent human trafficking, promote justice for survivors, provide services to victims, and increase federal coordination to enhance the federal government's response to the crisis of exploitation. In addition, Klobuchar and Cornyn authored the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, a 2015 law that increased the resources and tools available for combating human trafficking in the United States. The law ensures that American law enforcement is equipped to fight this crime, while helping victims rebuild their lives by using fines and penalties against their exploiters to fund restorative services and compensation.
  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-11162018,Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 11/16/2018,2018-11-19,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Oklee  Red Lake County
Dear Friends,
This week, the House of Representatives passed legislation that includes my language to give the State of Minnesota the authority to manage its population of gray wolves in a way that will best suit the needs of Minnesotans. My constituents have long expressed the need for local management of gray wolves, and I urge the Senate to act on this quickly. On Wednesday, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue visited my office to discuss issues for the House Agriculture Committee heading into the 116th Congress. I appreciate the good working relationship I have with Secretary Perdue and I look forward to working with him during the next Congress. I am continuing to negotiate the farm bill with my colleagues on the conference committee and I believe we are close to finishing our report. I remain confident we will have a 5-year farm bill enacted by the end of the year.
Sincerely,
Congressman Collin C. Peterson  Minnesota 7th District
 Manage Our Wolves Act 
I voted in support of a bill that includes my language to delist gray wolves in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Wyoming. This morning, the Manage our Wolves Act passed the House on a bipartisan 196-180 vote and moves across the Capitol for Senate action. Farmers and ranchers in rural Minnesota need to be able to protect their livestock and pets from predatory gray wolves that are constantly stalking herds across the state. This scheduled vote followed a letter written by a coalition of 19 agriculture and sportsmen's organizations that urged Speaker Paul Ryan and Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy to place my bill on the House floor for a vote before the year's end.
I gave a speech in support of this bill on the House floor. You can watch video of my speech by clicking here.
 Farm bill 
I would like to be able to tell you in this newsletter that we have a farm bill conference report drafted and ready for conferees to sign, but we're not quite there yet. However, we are finally in striking distance of an agreement. We have narrowed issues down and I have worked with Chairman Conaway on a House offer that has been presented to the Senate to help us close out remaining issues.We are still focused on the goal of getting a new farm bill passed before the end of year to bring certainty to our ag producers and rural communities.
 Secretary Sonny Perdue 
Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue stopped my office to congratulate me on my reelection after we chatted on election night.We discussed the status of the farm bill, the Trump Administration's rulemaking on SNAP waivers, and the agenda for the House Agriculture Committee in the upcoming congress.I appreciate the good working relationship I have developed with Secretary Perdue since his appointment and look forward to working with him on the issues facing our farmers and rural America.
 American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall 
I spoke with American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall on Friday. We discussed the ongoing farm bill negotiations and the importance of enacting a 5-year bill by the end of the year. Zippy and I agree that American producers depend on a 5-year bill to increase certainty for them at this time when environmental and financial stresses have a lot of folks concerned about the future.
 New Flyer 
This week, representatives of New Flyer visited my office to thank me for my efforts to keep U.S. bus manufacturers competitive. I recently joined a letter urging the Department of Transportation to clarify its Buy America regulations to ensure that manufacturers, like New Flyer's plant in Crookston, can properly project costs, procure parts, and avoid disruptions to transit systems. I also thanked Wayne Joseph (President of Transit Bus Business - pictured far left) and Paul Smith (Executive Vice President  pictured far right) for their decades of advocacy as they look forward to retirement at the end of the year.
 White Earth Tribal Council 
  Raymond Auginaush, Sr., Alan Roy, and Eugene Tibbetts
Recently elected members of the White Earth Tribal Council visited with me to discuss the tribe's wild rice cultivation efforts and the farm bill. White Earth Nation grows and harvests significant amounts of wild rice by hand that is high in protein and dietary fiber. I look forward to working with White Earth to expand market access for their wild rice.
 Stronger America Through Seafood 
I am the lead Democrat on the AQUAA Act, a bill which streamlines federal permitting processes for aquaculture facilities in federal waters and creates research and development opportunities to expand domestic markets of American-grown shrimp and fish. A coalition of seafood, restaurant, and manufacturing groups knowns as Stronger America Through Seafood (SATS) visited with me to show their support for the bill which will also benefit Minnesota-based aquaculture facilities.
 National Young Farmers Coalition 
  Sophie Vranian (Watertown), Sam Karns (Duluth), Starr Brainerd (Duluth), Andrew Bahrenburg, Aimee Haag (LITCHFIELD), Lindsay Lusher Shute
On Thursday, representatives of the National Young Farmers Coalition visited my office to talk about the farm bill and federal programs for young and beginning farmers. During farm bill negotiations I have supported increasing funding for the Beginning Farmers and Rancher Development Program, a program that provides financial and educational resources for young farmers. We also discussed what the House Agriculture Committee could look like during the 116th Congress. I hope to recruit members from the incoming class of representatives that are dedicated to learning the details of federal agriculture policy, so that Congress can effectively serve America's producers.
 Teamsters 
This week, I met with representatives of the Teamsters to discuss the issues affecting pensions across the nation. Congress must work to protect the hard-earned dollars American workers have invested over the years for their retirements. I signed onto the Rehabilitation for Multiemployer Pensions Act, also known as the Butch Lewis Act in the Senate, so we can keep these funds from insolvency. It is time for the Joint Select Committee on Solvency of Multiemployer Pension Plans to move legislation that addresses this problem, and I will continue to work with my friends on both sides of the aisle to see this through. Additionally, some members of the group were Vietnam War veterans, and I was honored to present them with Vietnam War Commemoration Lapel Pins to recognize their service.
 Beth Ford 
  Katie Zenk, Beth Ford, Adam Durand
Beth Ford, Land O'Lakes new CEO visited my office on Thursday. She talked about the importance of completing the farm bill for dairy producers in Minnesota as well as the need to make progress on other issues like immigration reform and resolving ongoing trade disputes. I have worked on a bipartisan basis on each of these issues and will continue to do so to strengthen our rural economy.
 Energy Conservation Improvement Programs 
In 1980, the Public Utilities Commission was directed to initiate a pilot program to demonstrate the feasibility of investments in energy efficiency. Four decades later, Minnesota has a host of Conservation Improvement Programs, Clean Energy Resource Teams and a statewide Energy Savings Platform for communities. Minnesota now ranks 8th in the National Energy Efficiency Scorecard. Since 2008, the Conservation Improvement Program has saved Minnesotans an estimated $3.5 billion on their energy bills.
Find more information about Minnesota's energy-saving initiatives here.
 Veterans Day Lapel Pin 
Department of Veterans Affairs Assistant Secretary Melissa Glynn presented me with a Veterans Day Lapel Pin, which is given to Congressional Members that are also veterans. I served in the North Dakota National Guard from 1963 to 1969 and honored to have received this recognition.
 Welcome Madeleine! 
My office welcomed Minnesota native Madeleine Lerner this week. Madeleine graduated from the University of Minnesota, Morris in 2017 and has her Master's in Conflict Transformation and Social Justice from Queen's University Belfast. She will be interning in D.C. through the end of the year and helping serve the folks of the 7th District. I am happy to be able to give students interested in government an up-close view of the legislative process.
 Spring Internship Application Deadline Approaches 
I highly encourage all college students and recent graduates interested in serving Minnesota's 7th district to apply to intern in my Washington, D.C. office. The deadline for submitting applications for spring 2019 internshipsis November 27, 2018.I am proud of the talented young people in our district and look forward to seeing the next group of students here in Washington.
For more information and to apply, visitmy website. This is a paid equal opportunity position.
 Newsstand 
 Congratulations to the Fertile-Beltrami FFA 
The Fertile-Beltrami FFA competed at this year's National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, where they succeed in taking home the Gold. FFA is an important organization that allows young people to demonstrate talent ranging from agricultural skills to the arts. I would like to congratulate the Fertile-Beltrami FFA on their accomplishments and for representing their community at the national level.
Read more about their experience here.
 Thanksgiving Dinner Cost Drops for 3rd Straight Year 
The American Farm Bureau Federation conducts an annual survey on the cost of classic holiday food products. The annual survey shows that the average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner is down 22 cents per person this year. In a similar trend, the price of your Thanksgiving turkey is about $1.36 per pound cheaper than it was last year - down 3 percent. Milk, sweet potatoes, green peas, and rolls also dropped in price. The Farm Bureau concludes that, after inflation, the average price of this year's Thanksgiving dinner is $19.37, the cheapest it has been in more than a decade.
 Minnesota Ranks #2 for Volunteering in the U.S. 
The Corporation for National and Community Service recently released a ranking of states based on the volunteering and civic engagement of residents. Minnesota was ranked #2 among states and Minneapolis and St. Paul together are the #1 cities. These volunteer activities provided an estimated $3.3 billion in economic value to Minnesota. We should be proud of our state's commitment to service, and I hope that folks continue to offer what time they can for volunteering in their communities.
 World Pancreatic Cancer Day 
On November 15th, pancreatic cancer advocates around the world united in recognition of World Pancreatic Cancer Day. People around the globe showed their support by wearing purple and by shining a light on the work that must be done to combat this deadly disease. Pancreatic Cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States and is the only major cancer with a survival rate in the single digits, about 9 percent.
 This Week in American History 
  DeWitt Wallace and his wife, Lila
On November 12, 1889 DeWitt Wallace was born in St. Paul. Wallace would go on to found Readers Digest in 1922. Since then, his family's fortune has been used to support educational and performing arts associations around the nation.
 What's the Story? 

	New Flyer Excelsior CHARGE
New Flyer is the largest transit bus and motor coach manufacturer in North America. The company employs more than 1,200 people in Minnesota  around 400 of them at their plant in Crookston. This week, New Flyer announced that their sixty-foot-battery-electric bus completed the Federal Transit Administration's Model Bus Testing Program. With completion of the testing, U.S. transit agencies can now utilize FTA funding to support their purchases of New Flyer's battery-electric busses. New Flyer greatly contributes to the economy of the 7th District, and their innovations will help cities around the country cut down on carbon emissions. I display a miniature model of one of their new electric bus in my Washington D.C. office.
  Carried Away  Jace Gust  Strathcona",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-speaks-house-floor-support-de-listing-gray-wolves,Peterson speaks on House Floor in support of De-Listing Gray Wolves,2018-11-16,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  Congressman Collin C. Peterson spoke this morning on the House Floor in support of H.R. 6784, the Manage Our Wolves Act.
I rise in support of the bill. I have to say in my 28 years in this body I have never seen so much nonsense, misinformation, and propaganda put out on a bill as being put out on this one, Peterson says in the start of his speech. We followed the Endangered Species Act. We did what was said, the scientists said we recovered and they delisted the wolves. These were scientists that did it, it wasn't any politician. You had a group out there, these extreme environmentalists and others who have captured our party, went to a judge in Washington D.C. that has no idea what's going on at all and convinced that judge that the wolves had not recovered because they had not been reestablished all the way to Des Moines, Iowa.
One of the first bills introduced in the 115th Congress was Congressman Peterson's bill to delist gray wolves from federal protections in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Wyoming, and return their management to state agencies. His bill, the Gray Wolf State Management Act, passed earlier this year through the House Committee on Natural Resources on a bipartisan vote.
Section 2 of today's legislation also would delist gray wolves in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Wyoming. The underlying bill passed 196-180 on a bipartisan vote, and now awaits Senate action.
Congressman Peterson's full floor speech can be watched and listened by clicking this link on C-SPAN.org.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=4E40738E-891D-4A78-B6D6-D99CD84673F1,Klobuchar Attends Presidential Medal of Freedom Presentation for Justice Alan Page at the White House,2018-11-16,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Justice Page was a member of the Minnesota Supreme Court for over two decades and a star player for the Minnesota Vikings 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) joined Justice Alan Page at the White House today where he was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by the President. Justice Page is an accomplished jurist, athlete, and philanthropist from Minnesota. After over a decade of practicing law, he won a seat on the Minnesota Supreme Court in 1992, where he served for more than 20 years. Before he became a lawyer, Justice Page played in the NFL for 15 years with the Minnesota Vikings and the Chicago Bears; he earned his law degree and practiced law during the off-seasons. In 1988, Justice Page founded the Page Education Foundation, which has provided scholarships to nearly 7,000 students.
During his extraordinary life, Justice Alan Page broke barriers in law school, in the NFL, and on the Minnesota Supreme Court, Klobuchar said. On the field, he led the Vikings to the Super Bowl and ushered in the golden age of Minnesota football. On the bench, he was a thoughtful and well-reasoned judge that brought quiet leadership to our justice system. And for over three decades, he and his beloved late wife Diane have been dedicated philanthropists, providing opportunities to thousands of young people through education. This Medal of Freedom is very well-deserved.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honor and is awarded by the President to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.
This year's other Medal of Freedom recipients are Miriam Adelson, Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Elvis Presley, George Babe Ruth Jr.; Justice Antonin Scalia, and Roger Staubach.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=B77AF406-AB34-4EE8-858A-D51187DA6B51,"Klobuchar, Warner, Coons, Blumenthal Press Facebook on Reports That They Retaliated Against Critics",2018-11-16,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mark Warner (D-VA), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) pressed Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg to respond to reports that the company used contractors to retaliate against or spread intentionally inflammatory information about their critics. Since the 2016 election, both the government and Facebook internal investigations have revealed that the company failed to adequately protect the data of its 2.2 billion users. Recent reportsincludingone from the New York Timesallege that Facebook has taken significant steps to undermine critics, including hiring partisan political consultants to retaliate and spread intentionally inflammatory information about people who have criticized Facebook, which, if not properly disclosed, may have campaign finance implications.
We are gravely concerned by recent reports indicating that your company used contractors to retaliate against or spread intentionally inflammatory information about your critics, the senators wrote. In addition, the staggering amount of data that Facebook has collected on both its users and people who have not subscribed to or consented to use of the platform, raises concern that the company could improperly or illegally use its vast financial and data resources against government officials and critics seeking to protect the public and our democracy.
Both elected officials and the general public have rightfully questioned whether Facebook is capable of regulating its own conduct.
Russia attempted to influence the 2016 presidential election by buying and placing political ads on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google. The content and purchaser(s) of those online advertisements are a mystery to the public because of outdated laws that have failed to keep up with evolving technology. The Honest Ads Act, led by Klobuchar, Warner, and the late Senator John McCain (R-AZ) and cosponsored by Coons and Blumenthal, would prevent foreign actors from influencing our elections by ensuring that political ads sold online, including social media platforms like Facebook, are covered by the same rules as ads sold on TV, radio, and print.
The full text of the letter can be found below:
Dear Mr. Zuckerberg:
We are gravely concerned by recent reports indicating that your company used contractors to retaliate against or spread intentionally inflammatory information about your critics.
Since the 2016 election, both the government and your own internal investigations have revealed that your company failed to adequately protect the data of its 2.2 billion users. Your company also failed to implement protocols to prevent manipulation by foreign adversaries working to undermine America's political system. Both elected officials and the general public have rightfully questioned whether Facebook is capable of regulating its own conduct.
According to recent reports, your company hired contractors to retaliate and spread intentionally inflammatory information about people who have criticized Facebook, which, if not properly disclosed, may have campaign finance and other potential legal implications. In addition, the staggering amount of data that Facebook has collected on both its users and people who have not subscribed to or consented to use of the platform, raises concern that the company could improperly or illegally use its vast financial and data resources against government officials and critics seeking to protect the public and our democracy.
In light of these concerns, we respectfully request you answer the following questions:
 
To your knowledge, did your company hire any entity  including, but not limited to research firms and contractors  to collect or find information to be used in retaliation against people who criticized Facebook, including elected officials who were scrutinizing your company?
Did your company hire any entity  including, but not limited to research firms and contractors  to spread negative or intentionally inflammatory information in retaliation against people who criticized Facebook, including elected officials who were scrutinizing your company?
Did your company  or any entity affiliated with or hired by your company  ever use any of the vast financial and data resources available to Facebook in retaliation against people who criticized Facebook, including elected officials who were scrutinizing your company?
Did your company  or any entity affiliated with or hired by your company  ever seek to conceal information related to foreign interference with the 2016 U.S. election from the public or government investigators?
Did your company  or any entity affiliated with or hired by your company  ever contact any media outlets with negative or misleading information, or suggest, promote, or amplify negative or misleading social media about your critics, including elected officials scrutinizing your company?
How much money have you expended or paid other entities to collect, find, spread or amplify information about people who have criticized Facebook, including elected officials scrutinizing your company? Has any of that spending been publically disclosed?
Some of us have requested that the Deputy Attorney General expand the scope of the Department of Justice's existing investigations to include the latest reports that Facebook hired contractors to retaliate and spread negative information about people who criticized the company. If the Department's investigation is expanded to include this recent report, will you commit to co-operating with any investigation into this matter?
 
Thank you for your prompt attention to this request.
Sincerely,
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=CAF33D9D-2221-4C10-B551-0715B2BC402F,"Klobuchar, Blumenthal, Coons, Hirono Urge Department of Justice to Investigate Claims that Facebook Retaliated Against Critics",2018-11-15,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led a letter with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) to the Department of Justice today urging Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein to expand any investigation into Facebook and Cambridge Analytica to include whether Facebookor any other entity affiliated with or hired by Facebookhid information and retaliated against critics or public officials seeking to regulate the platform. Recent reportsincluding one from the New York Timesallege that Facebook has taken significant steps to undermine critics, including hiring partisan political consultants to retaliate and spread disinformation about people who have criticized Facebook, which, if not properly disclosed, may have campaign finance implications.
Since the 2016 election, both the government and Facebook's own internal investigations have revealed that the company failed to adequately protect the data and trust of its 2.2 billion users. Facebook also failed to implement basic protocols to prevent manipulation by foreign adversaries working to undermine America's political system, the senators wrote.
Given the staggering amount of data that Facebook has collected on both its users  even people who have not consented to use of the platform  these allegations raise profound concerns about the company's willingness to protect the public and our democracy, they continued.
Russia attempted to influence the 2016 presidential election by buying and placing political ads on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google. The content and purchaser(s) of those online advertisements are a mystery to the public because of outdated laws that have failed to keep up with evolving technology. The Honest Ads Act, which is also sponsored by Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) and the late Senator John McCain (R-AZ), and cosponsored by Senators Blumenthal, Coons and Hirono would regulate social media companies like Facebook to prevent foreign actors from influencing our elections by ensuring that political ads sold online are covered by the same rules as ads sold on TV, radio, and print.
The Honest Ads Act would enhance the integrity of our democracy by improving disclosure requirements for online political advertisements by:
 
Amending the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002's definition of electioneering communication to include paid Internet and digital advertisements and requiring proper disclaimers on both electioneering communications and issue ads.
Requiring digital platforms with at least 50,000,000 monthly viewers to maintain a public file of all electioneering communications purchased by a person or group who spends more than $500.00 total on ads published on their platform. The file would contain a digital copy of the advertisement, a description of the audience the advertisement targets, the number of views generated, the dates and times of publication, the rates charged, and the contact information of the purchaser.
Requiring online platforms to make all reasonable efforts to ensure that foreign individuals and entities are not purchasing political advertisements in order to influence the American electorate.
 
The full text of the letter can be found below:
Dear Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein:
We write to urge that you expand any investigation into Facebook and Cambridge Analytica to include whether Facebook  or any other entity affiliated with or hired by Facebook  retaliated against critics or public officials seeking to regulate the platform, or hid vital information from the public.
Reports indicate that the Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are conducting an investigation into Facebook's failure to prevent and provide notice regarding the compromise of user data and the misuse of the platform by foreign governments. As the Department and other agencies proceed with the investigation, we urge you to consider new information that has come to light regarding Facebook's behavior and to expand the scope of your inquiry accordingly.
Since the 2016 election, both the government and Facebook's own internal investigations have revealed that the company failed to adequately protect the data and trust of its 2.2 billion users. Facebook also failed to implement basic protocols to prevent manipulation by foreign adversaries working to undermine America's political system.
In addition to the Department of Justice's investigation, elected officials have investigated, held hearings, and proposed legislation to significantly increase regulations on Facebook and similar online platforms. Scrutiny by Congress and the media ultimately forced Facebook to acknowledge Russia's manipulation of the platform. However, disturbing recent reports allege that Facebook took significant steps to undermine efforts to hold them responsible, including hiring partisan political consultants to spread disinformation about people who have criticized Facebook. If not properly disclosed, such steps may have implications for securities and campaign finance law.
Given the staggering amount of data that Facebook has collected on both its users  even people who have not consented to use of the platform  these allegations raise profound concerns about the company's willingness to protect the public and our democracy.
We strongly urge you to expand the Department's investigation to include actions the company and its executives took to withhold significant information regarding the abuse of Facebook and its managerial response to the matter.
Sincerely,
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-welcomes-cms-move-increase-access-mental-health-treatment,Emmer Welcomes CMS Move to Increase Access to Mental Health Treatment,2018-11-14,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Following Congressman Tom Emmer's (MN-06) letterto the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) calling for action, and eleven months after the congressional deadline, yesterday the agency outlinedhow states like Minnesota can utilize 1115 waivers toincrease access to mental health treatment. Specifically, in a letter to State Medicaid Directors, CMS provided information on how to navigate an outdated federal law, called the Institutions for Mental Diseases (IMD) exclusion, to ensure those suffering from mental illness receive the inpatient care they need.
This is a positive step forward not just for Minnesotans, but for every American who suffers from mental illness and their loved ones, said Congressman Emmer. 
While there remains a severe shortage of mental health treatment across the nation, this long overdue guidance will allow states to navigate the outdated IMD exclusion law, a key contributor to that shortage. I am glad to see CMS take action following our letter and look forward to continue ensuring those who need care can get it.
Through section 12003 of the 21st Century Cures Act which was signed into law in 2016, Congress required CMS to issue guidance for states in utilizing 1115 waivers to increase access to mental illness treatment. These waivers inform states on how they can redesign their mental health treatment systems and provide beneficiaries treatment in IMDs. Since 1965, the IMD exclusion law has significantly blocked access to treatment for those with substance use disorder or mental illness. Specifically, the federal government will not pay for their treatment services in facilities with more than 16 beds. Read Emmer's letter to CMS here and their response here. 
Read CMS guidance to states here. 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=244930F4-3EE3-4CB9-BA44-11D7158AC022,"Klobuchar, Smith Announce More Than $46 Million for Minnesota’s Basic Health Program, MinnesotaCare",2018-11-14,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Basic Health Program (BHP), known as MinnesotaCare in Minnesota, is a health benefits program for low-income citizens who would otherwise be ineligible to purchase coverage through the health insurance marketplace 
WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has awarded $46,276,090 in additional payments to Minnesota for their Basic Health Program (BHP). Established by the Affordable Care Act, states have the option to create a BHP for low-income citizens, providing healthcare coverage to those who do not qualify for programs like Medicaid and Children'sHealth InsuranceProgram (CHIP). CMS estimates that qualified health plan premiums in Minnesota would have been 18.8 percent higher if it was not operating their BHP, MinnesotaCare.
Minnesota has a long, bipartisan history of innovation and efficiency in health care. MinnesotaCare has helped to bring down healthcare costs for the most vulnerable in our state who need affordable, comprehensive coverage, Klobuchar said. This funding helps in that effort and I will continue to fight for lower healthcare costs. 
MinnesotaCare is a critical program that furthers our goal of making sure everyone has access to affordable, high-quality health care, Smith said. By investing in MinnesotaCare, we're investing in people across the state and in the shared belief that we can all work collectively to lower the cost of health care.
In May of 2018, Klobuchar and Smith urged the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to restore the full amount of federal funding that was cut from MinnesotaCare over the past year. Minnesota, New York, and HHS recently reached an agreement about a lawsuit regarding cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments. Under the agreement, HHS agreed to develop a new system for providing federal funding for BHPs like MinnesotaCare. In the letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar and CMS Administrator Seema Verma, the senators called for full funding for MinnesotaCare.
Throughout her time in the Senate, Klobuchar has been fighting to ensure that all Americans have access to affordable healthcare. In 2015, Klobuchar reintroduced theAmericans Giving Care to Elders (AGE) Actto help reduce the financial burden on families by establishing a federal tax credit to assist with the costs of caring for an aging family member. Last month, three of Klobuchar's bipartisan bills to combat the opioid epidemic were signed into law as part of theSubstance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) for Patients and Communities Act. One of those bills, theEliminating Kickbacks in Recovery Act that Klobuchar introduced with Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will help crack down on health care facilities or providers that try to game the system to take advantage of vulnerable patients.Klobuchar has also been a leader in curbing the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs, improving and strengthening Medicare, and protecting American consumers by leading major bipartisan legislation, such as theSafe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act, thePreserve Access to Affordable Generics Act, and theEmpowering Medicare Seniors to Negotiate Drug Prices Act.
Smith, a member of the Senate Health Committee, has made bringing down health care costs a top priority, saying it's the issue she hears about most as she travels the state. Smith's very first bill took aim at a tactic big pharmaceutical companies are using to keep affordable generic drugs out of the hands of Minnesota families and seniors. Smith later introduced a comprehensive bill to not only lower prescription drug prices for Minnesotans, but also to save billions of tax dollars on Medicare's prescription drug program. In October, President Trump signed into law a measure she pushed to outlaw gag clauses, which were preventing pharmacists from telling customers when they could save money by paying cash for their drugs, rather than using their insurance. Smith also has a leadership role on the bipartisan Senate Rural Health Caucus, and the Senate-Passed Farm Bill includes a bipartisan provision which she championed with Republican Senator Mike Rounds of North Dakota to create a Rural Health Liaison at USDA whose job will be to focus federal health efforts on the unique needs of rural America.
   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/klobuchar-smith-announce-more-46-million-minnesota%E2%80%99s-basic-health-program-minnesotacare,"Klobuchar, Smith Announce More Than $46 Million for Minnesota’s Basic Health Program, MinnesotaCare",2018-11-14,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Klobuchar, Smith Announce More Than $46 Million for Minnesota's Basic Health Program, MinnesotaCare
The Basic Health Program (BHP), known as MinnesotaCare in Minnesota, is a health benefits program for low-income citizens who would otherwise be ineligible to purchase coverage through the health insurance marketplace
WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has awarded $46,276,090 in additional payments to Minnesota for their Basic Health Program (BHP). Established by the Affordable Care Act, states have the option to create a BHP for low-income citizens, providing healthcare coverage to those who do not qualify for programs like Medicaid and Children'sHealth InsuranceProgram (CHIP). CMS estimates that qualified health plan premiums in Minnesota would have been 18.8 percent higher if it was not operating their BHP, MinnesotaCare.
Minnesota has a long, bipartisan history of innovation and efficiency in health care. MinnesotaCare has helped to bring down healthcare costs for the most vulnerable in our state who need affordable, comprehensive coverage,Klobuchar said.This funding helps in that effort and I will continue to fight for lower healthcare costs.
MinnesotaCare is a critical program that furthers our goal of making sure everyone has access to affordable, high-quality health care,Smith said.By investing in MinnesotaCare, we're investing in people across the state and in the shared belief that we can all work collectively to lower the cost of health care.
In May of 2018, Klobuchar and Smith urged the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to restore the full amount of federal funding that was cut from MinnesotaCare over the past year. Minnesota, New York, and HHS recently reached an agreement about a lawsuit regarding cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments. Under the agreement, HHS agreed to develop a new system for providing federal funding for BHPs like MinnesotaCare. In the letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar and CMS Administrator Seema Verma, the senators called for full funding for MinnesotaCare.
Throughout her time in the Senate, Klobuchar has been fighting to ensure that all Americans have access to affordable healthcare. In 2015, Klobuchar reintroduced theAmericans Giving Care to Elders (AGE) Actto help reduce the financial burden on families by establishing a federal tax credit to assist with the costs of caring for an aging family member. Last month, three of Klobuchar's bipartisan bills to combat the opioid epidemic were signed into law as part of theSubstance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) for Patients and Communities Act. One of those bills, theEliminating Kickbacks in Recovery Actthat Klobuchar introduced with Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will help crack down on health care facilities or providers that try to game the system to take advantage of vulnerable patients.Klobuchar has also been a leader in curbing the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs, improving and strengthening Medicare, and protecting American consumers by leading major bipartisan legislation, such as theSafe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act, thePreserve Access to Affordable Generics Act, and theEmpowering Medicare Seniors to Negotiate Drug Prices Act. 
Smith, a member of the Senate Health Committee, has made bringing down health care costs a top priority, saying it's the issue she hears about most as she travels the state. Smith's very first bill took aim at a tactic big pharmaceutical companies are using to keep affordable generic drugs out of the hands of Minnesota families and seniors. Smith later introduced a comprehensive bill to not only lower prescription drug prices for Minnesotans, but also to save billions of tax dollars on Medicare's prescription drug program. In October, President Trump signed into law a measure she pushed to outlaw gag clauses, which were preventing pharmacists from telling customers when they could save money by paying cash for their drugs, rather than using their insurance. Smith also has a leadership role on the bipartisan Senate Rural Health Caucus, and the Senate-Passed Farm Bill includes a bipartisan provision which she championed with Republican Senator Mike Rounds of North Dakota to create a Rural Health Liaison at USDA whose job will be to focus federal health efforts on the unique needs of rural America.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/klobuchar-smith-announce-more-46-million-minnesotas-basic-health-program-minnesotacare,"Klobuchar, Smith Announce More Than $46 Million for Minnesotas Basic Health Program, MinnesotaCare",2018-11-14,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON– U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has awarded $46,276,090 in additional payments to Minnesota for their Basic Health Program (BHP). Established by the Affordable Care Act, states have the option to create a BHP for low-income citizens, providing healthcare coverage to those who do not qualify for programs like Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). CMS estimates that qualified health plan premiums in Minnesota would have been 18.8 percent higher if it was not operating their BHP, MinnesotaCare.

“Minnesota has a long, bipartisan history of innovation and efficiency in health care. MinnesotaCare has helped to bring down healthcare costs for the most vulnerable in our state who need affordable, comprehensive coverage,” Klobuchar said. “This funding helps in that effort and I will continue to fight for lower healthcare costs.”

“MinnesotaCare is a critical program that furthers our goal of making sure everyone has access to affordable, high-quality health care,” Smith said. “By investing in MinnesotaCare, we’re investing in people across the state and in the shared belief that we can all work collectively to lower the cost of health care.”

In May of 2018, Klobuchar and Smith urged the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to restore the full amount of federal funding that was cut from MinnesotaCare over the past year. Minnesota, New York, and HHS recently reached an agreement about a lawsuit regarding cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments. Under the agreement, HHS agreed to develop a new system for providing federal funding for BHPs like MinnesotaCare. In the letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar and CMS Administrator Seema Verma, the senators called for full funding for MinnesotaCare.

Throughout her time in the Senate, Klobuchar has been fighting to ensure that all Americans have access to affordable healthcare. In 2015, Klobuchar reintroduced the Americans Giving Care to Elders (AGE) Act to help reduce the financial burden on families by establishing a federal tax credit to assist with the costs of caring for an aging family member. Last month, three of Klobuchar’s bipartisan bills to combat the opioid epidemic were signed into law as part of the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) for Patients and Communities Act. One of those bills, the Eliminating Kickbacks in Recovery Act that Klobuchar introduced with Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will help crack down on health care facilities or providers that try to game the system to take advantage of vulnerable patients. Klobuchar has also been a leader in curbing the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs, improving and strengthening Medicare, and protecting American consumers by leading major bipartisan legislation, such as the Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act, the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act, and the Empowering Medicare Seniors to Negotiate Drug Prices Act.

Smith, a member of the Senate Health Committee, has made bringing down health care costs a top priority, saying it’s the issue she hears about most as she travels the state. Smith’s very first bill took aim at a tactic big pharmaceutical companies are using to keep affordable generic drugs out of the hands of Minnesota families and seniors. Smith later introduced a comprehensive bill to not only lower prescription drug prices for Minnesotans, but also to save billions of tax dollars on Medicare’s prescription drug program. In October, President Trump signed into law a measure she pushed to outlaw “gag clauses,” which were preventing pharmacists from telling customers when they could save money by paying cash for their drugs, rather than using their insurance. Smith also has a leadership role on the bipartisan Senate Rural Health Caucus, and the Senate-Passed Farm Bill includes a bipartisan provision which she championed with Republican Senator Mike Rounds of North Dakota to create a “Rural Health Liaison” at USDA whose job will be to focus federal health efforts on the unique needs of rural America.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:10:16Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-1192018-0,Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 11/9/2018,2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Veterans Honor Flight in May
Dear Friends,
Veterans Day is on Sunday, November 11, and it is a day to thank and honor the brave men and women who have served in the United States armed forces. I hope you will take a moment to acknowledge military veterans in your community for their dedication to protecting our national security and values. Over the past year, I have met with veterans in Washington and across Minnesota and I will highlight some of those great meetings here. This week, I am also honored to have been reelected to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives. I look forward to representing the values of everyone in western Minnesota during the 116th Congress.
Sincerely,
Congressman Collin C. Peterson  Minnesota 7th District
 Meeting with Veterans in 2018 
  Top Row: St. Paul Army Corps of Engineers, World War II veterans Henry Tweten and Bernie Lieder, David Kivisto's (DASSEL) appointment to the Air Force Academy  Middle: Sioux Falls Veterans Town Hall  Bottom: Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion
I have met with many veterans organizations this year to stay up to date on the important issues affecting our nation's servicemembers and veterans. This Congress, I have supported legislation to ensure our veterans have access to quality health care including the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act, the CARE for All Veterans Act and the Improving Oversight of Women Veterans' Care Act. Local officials and I have been working to secure federal funding for new veterans homes in Montevideo and Bemidji, and I will continue to monitor those projects until they are completed. Our veterans have sacrificed a great deal in the service of this country, and I am proud to advocate for them in Washington.
This year, my office joined as a Commemorative Partner to the Vietnam War 50th Commemoration, a Congressional initiative meant to thank our Vietnam veterans. Vietnam veterans fought in some of the worst conditions imaginable, but many were not welcomed home in the manner they deserved. Minnesota has 125,800 Vietnam Era veterans that need to be properly honored for their service. As a symbol of appreciation, I have been presenting special Vietnam Commemoration Pins to Vietnam veterans who served on active duty between 1955 and 1975.
  Mr. Kermit Paananen (OLIVIA)
I was honored to send Kermit a Vietnam Commemorative Lapel Pin and letter to honor his sacrifice and service during the Vietnam War. Kermit was presented this special Pin at his retirement party after 34 years of military and civilian service. I was glad to send this special recognition to him and I wish Kermit the best in his retirement.
 Blue Ribbon School Awards 
  Top Row: Principal Nathaniel Messick and Heidi Benson (Fertile-Beltrami Elementary School) / Superintendent Ryan Nielsen, Marylee Glese, Principal Ryan Arndt (Canby Elementary School)  Middle Row: Jody Weis, Melanie Rudeen and Principal David Hansen (Buffalo Lake-Hector-Stewart Elementary School) / Principal Phil Goetstouwers (Red Rock Central School)
Representatives of the 7th District's 2018 Blue Ribbon Schools were in Washington this week to accept their awards. The prestigious distinction recognizes public and private elementary, middle, and high schools for their overall academic performance and progress in closing achievement gaps among students. I sincerely thank each school for investing in student development and productive school environments.
 Livestock Hauling Petition 
I recently led a bipartisan letter with Representatives Ted Yoho (R-FL) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) in support of a petition to waive livestock haulers from certain provisions of Hours of Service (HOS) rules. The letter, which was signed by 57 of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle, requests increased driving hours for livestock haulers in exchange for additional training designed by FMCSA. Current hours of service regulations do not accommodate the unique needs of livestock haulers, and I'm confident that this petition will allow them to deliver agricultural products to market more effectively while maintaining their proven record of safety.
 Farm to Table Dinner in Crookston 
The University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC) invited members of my staff to experience a Farm to Table dinner. The experience began with a student horse show at the Equestrian Center and then a dinner featuring foods grown by University of Minnesota students, alumni and friends. This inaugural Farm to Table dinner featured local ingredients prepared by talented chefs and was served with wine from Fantesca Estate and Winery, which is owned by Duane and Susan Hoff. Duane is the son of longtime Crookston residents and UMC faculty Dave and Irene Hoff.
The different courses of dinner were highlighted by several students talking about their UMC experiences. Currently, UMC delivers 35 bachelor's degrees, 22 minors, and 40 areas of emphasis on campus as well as 16 online degrees.
 Grow Our Own Summit in Marshall 
My staff aide Jacki Anderson joined the Southwest Initiative Foundation at their Grow Our Own Summit in Marshall. Speakers from around the country talked with leaders in southwest Minnesota about disparities among youth and what we could do to give our children a better start in life. We know that family, geography and community dynamics directly impact a child's potential for success. I will continue to work with local organizations and do everything I can at the federal level to create more opportunities that help our kids succeed.
 UMC Campus Advisory and Advancement Board Meeting 
The University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC) Campus Advisory and Advancement Board met new members and heard a campus report from Chancellor Mary Holz-Clause this week. There were several other presentations including federal and state legislative updates and a report on UMC's delivery of online programs. UMC was one of the first campuses in Minnesota to give students laptops and online programs.
 Retirement Plan and IRA Contribution Limits Increase for 2019 
Each year, cost-of-living adjustments are made to contribution limits for 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts. For 2019, the 401(k) contribution increases to $19,000, and the IRA limit increases to $6,000.
For more information about how these changes could affect your retirement plan click here.
 This Week in American History 
  The Kensington rune stone
On November 8, 1898, the Kensington rune stone was discovered on Olof Ohman's farm, near Alexandria. The stone tells of a group of Vikings who traveled to Minnesota in 1362, but its authenticity has long been the subject of debate.
The English translation of the stone's text is as follows:
Eight Goths (Swedes) and twenty-two Norwegians upon  a journey of discovery from Vinland westward. We had a  camp by two skerries one day's journey north from this stone.  We were out fishing one day. When we returned home we  found ten men red with blood and dead. A V M (Ave, Virgo  Maria), save us from evil.
(We) have ten men by the sea to look after our vessel four-  teen days' journey from this island. Year  1362.''
 What's the Story? 
In 2005, I performed for American servicemembers with my band The Second Amendments during a congressional delegation tour across Europe and the Middle East. The band was made up of a bipartisan group of my fellow Congressmen and we were happy to show our support for our troops at military bases in Germany, Kuwait, Iraq, Pakistan and Afghanistan. I have the shirt shown above hung in my Washington, D.C. office to commemorate the tour.
  Blue Ribbon School Principals and their guests toured the U.S. Capitol with our office Friday  (Left to right) Catherine and Phil Goetstouwer, Nathaniel Messick, Heidi Benson, Jody Weis and Melanie Rudeen",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/klobuchar-smith-nolan-announce-more-than-56-million-loan-for-electric,"Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan Announce More than $5.6 Million Loan for Electric Grid Improvements in Two Harbors",2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Rick Nolan,N000127,nolan.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Representative Rick Nolan announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded Cooperative Light and Power Association of Lake County a loan of $5,670,000 for infrastructure improvements. This investment will strengthen the Northland's economy for years to come, Klobuchar said. Projects like this not only boost the economy, but also support good-paying jobs and maintain the services Minnesotans rely on. Improving our electric grid infrastructure is vital to building a 21stcentury economy that works for everyone, Smith said.This investment will connect more Minnesotans with the power they need and spur rural development in the northeastern part of our state.
Investments like this will improve our rural infrastructure, create good-paying local jobs, and better serve the 6,000 residential and commercial consumers in the Arrowhead region of northeastern Minnesota, Nolan said. 
This loan funds 35 miles of new electric lines, improving 12 miles of line, and other system improvementsincluding $439,278 in smart grid technologies. Cooperative Light and Power Association of Lake County serves more than 6,000 residential and commercial consumers in the Arrowhead region in Minnesota.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/this-is-revolutionary,This is revolutionary!,2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Rick Nolan,N000127,nolan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Stage is Set to Advance Our Restore Democracy Revolution 

	According to a recent poll conducted by the University of Maryland and the non-partisan research group Voice of the People, 65 percent of Republicans and 85 percent of Democrats who responded back a constitutional amendment to overturn the U.S. Supreme Court's Citizens United decision, and put a stop to the billions of dollars in secret, dark money corporations andwealthy special interests arepermitted to contribute to federal campaigns.
Dear Friend,
Now more than ever, our Nation's future depends onoverturning the U.S. Supreme Court's Citizens United decision, so we can finally put a stop to the billions of dollars in secret, dark money corporations and special interests are permitted to spend forterrible, false, and negative TV ads.
These messages, which begin months before Election Day, go on ad nauseum  discouraging good people from running for office, denigrating the candidates, driving down voter turnout, andcausing Americans to lose faith in their leaders and the integrity of our public policymaking process.
According to the highly respectedCenter for Responsive Politics, last week's congressional mid-term elections accounted for more than$5.2 billion. Much of that money came via incredibly wealthy special interest groups hoping to advance their own narrow agendas in the next Congress. And much of the rest was raised by incumbents who go to Washington to govern, but end up spending the lion's share of their timedialing for campaign dollars like mid-level telemarketers.
The good news is that key elements of our Restore Democracy legislation  ablueprint that includes some of the very best ideas for campaign and elections reform(see article below)  are gaining support inside and outside of Congress.
The Washington Postreported last week that influential organizations including Planned Parenthood, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights have signed onto aDeclaration of American Democracy,demanding that campaign and elections reform  including aConstitutional Amendment to overturn Citizens United be a major priority of the next Congress.
Hopefully one key element will be the reintroduction and passage of legislationWisconsin Republican Congressman Mike Gallagherand I have put forward to end congressional campaign fundraising  by incumbents and challengers alike  on days when Congress is in session. OurGo to Washington, Go to Work Actwould ensure that when Members of Congress go to Washington, they go to work governing and doing the people's business  not fundraising for reelection on the people's time.
The simple fact is that there's not a single Republican or Democrat in Congress who prefers fundraising to governing.Everyone comes to Washington with ideas they believe will improve our Nation and make life better for people.But far too many of the best ideas will be left on the cutting room floor until we change the system. And changing the system is what our Go to Washington, Go to Work bill is all about.
We will keep you posted as events proceed. Meanwhile, I want to hear your thoughts. Feel free to contact any of our offices listed below orsend me an email.
Sincerely,  
   The Restore Democracy Revolution 
 This is What Will be Required to Restore Our Democracy and Take Back Our Government 

	One of my veryfirst acts after returning to Congress in 2013 was to introduce a Constitutional Amendment to overturn the U.S. Supreme Court's Citizens United decision, which unleashed billions of dollars in secret, dark money into our campaigns and elections. Thisphoto, taken during our press conference at the National PressClub, appeared on the front page of Capitol Hill's well known daily newspaper, Roll Call.
Our Restore Democracy legislation is a blueprint for reformencompassing the best ideas put forth by many thoughtful leaders over the years. Any one of these elements would constitute major reform in and of itself. Taken together, the Restore Democracy' package would bring about a true renaissance for our democratic process. Here's the plan in a nutshell:
Overturn Citizens United and get Secret, Dark Money out of Politics
Congress must enact a Constitutional amendment to overturn the U.S. Supreme Court's Citizens United' decision because corporations are not people. And campaign contributions are not defined as free speech' under the First Amendment.
Require Full Disclosure of Campaign Finances
Congress must have the power to require full public disclosure ofallcampaign financing so voters are aware of who is providing financial assistance to their candidates and how much they receive.
Institute Small Donor and Public Financing
Congress must create a system of small donor and public financing for elections in order to offset the power of well-financed special interests, and ensure that when Members of Congress go to Washington, they go to work on the people's business  not on raising campaign funds.
Limit the Campaign Season
Congress must limit the campaign season by restricting spending on congressional campaigns to a period 60 days before a primary or general election, and prohibiting both incumbents and challengers from raising political contributions while Congress is in session.
Preserve and Expand Voting Rights
Congress must protect the right to vote by outlawing voter suppression activities, and providing an online voter registration system in every state. Our democracy succeeds  and our government works best  only when everyone participates.
Outlaw Partisan Redistricting
Congress must eliminate partisan redistricting and gerrymandering so reapportionment creates compact and contiguous Congressional districts that represent a regional community of interest and follow geographic boundaries and county lines.
Restore Regular Order
Congress must restore the traditional process of regular order that has served our Nation well for more than 200 years. All legislation must be the subject of public hearings with at least 72 hours provided for public review prior to recorded votes. Every bill must be considered under an open rule, with every amendment considered and given an up or down vote. Regular Order fosters bipartisanship and cooperation as we find points of agreement toward the best solutions to tough problems.
   EPA Announces Plan to Boost Corporate Profits andAccelerate Global Warming in 2019 

	Our old friend, Pulitzer Prize winning Star Tribune cartoonist Steve Sack, nails it again with this cartoonpointingout that global warming iscausingmore and more extremeweatherevents.
The President has called climate change a hoax invented by the Chinese.Well, he can try telling that to people in California, Florida, and up and down the East Coast whose homes, communities, and lives have been devastated by terrible fires, rain storms, and hurricanes.Our hearts go out to them.
In fact, it could not be more obvious that the battle against climate change is the greatest challenge of our time. And the price of failure is almost unimaginable. According to a new report from the International Panel on Climate Change, unless the world undertakes an immediate, herculean effort to save our planet,thousands of lives will be lostand even more disastrous storms, flooding, food scarcity, anddamage topping $54 trillionwill occur by2040.
Yet the President'sEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced plans last week to triple its efforts in 2019 toroll back air quality rules and regulationsdesigned to eliminate billions of tons of carbon emissions that drive climate change.
And EPA has made clear that by March, they will have officially nixed theObama Administration's Clean Power Plan, designed to move the nation away from coal, oil and other fossil fuels toward the use of more wind, solar and hydroelectric power.
The simple truth is, the United States should be leading the global effort to address and solve climate change with the same tenacity it took todefeat fascismin World War II orput a man on the moonin 1969.
But instead, the President has called climate changea Chinese hoaxand announced that the U.S. will pull out of theParis climate accords. The hard, cold fact is that unless determined people of good will find a way to overcome his refusal to accept facts and science, the entire world will pay the price for countless generations to come.
   GRANT WATCH 
 Electric Infrastructure and Smart Grid Technology in Lake and St. Louis County to Get $5,670,000 Upgrade 

	Under our watch, Minnesota's 8th District has received more than $1.2 billion in federal grants for projects that create good paying jobs and make life better for people
We were pleased to announce animportant grant for Minnesota's 8th districtlast week.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) - via the Electric Infrastructure Loan and Loan Guarantee Program - announced that theCooperativeLight and Power Association in Two Harborswill be the recipient of a$5,670,000 rural development investmentto build 35 miles of line and improve 12 line miles and make other system improvements, including $439,278 in smart grid technologies.

First energized in 1936, the Cooperative Light and Power Association serves more than6,000 residential and commercial consumers in the Arrowhead region of northeastern Minnesota.Tourism, timber and mining are the major industries in the service territory, which also serves four state parks, a National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
To help keep you updated, we will be using the Monday Report to highlight important federal grants for the 8th District.
   Our Week in Washington 
  On his walk home from work last week, my Press Secretary, Jordan Metsa, witnessed what he calls ""one of the most beautiful sunsets he's ever seen"" over the U.S. Capitol Building. He was able to snap this photo, which captured the remarkable sight that evening.
 Our Week in Mora 

	In the southeastern five countries of 8th District: Pine, Isanti, Chisago, Kanabec and Kanabec (PICKM) transportation providers and users met at the East Central Regional Development Commission in Mora to organize the East Central Regional Transportation Coordinating Council Advisory Board (ECRTCC Advisory Board). Their mission is to work towards transportation access for seniors, military Veterans, people with disabilities, and low income individuals. My Field Representative Rick Olseen attended on my behalf and spoke about my legislation, H.R. 5664, that addresses the tax issue many volunteer drivers are facing.
 Our Week in Minneapolis 
  My Field Representative Rick Olseen has been attending the United Veterans Legislative Council of Minnesota on my behalf at the Minneapolis VA for the last six years. He's receiving a Certificate of Appreciation from the group's Chairman Jerry Kyser. The wellness of our military Veterans is so important to me, and it's been a privilege for my staff and me to help many Veterans in the 8th District.
 Our Week in St. Paul 
Nolan CongressionalField Representative Rick Olseenattended the Minnesota Department of Health Flex Advisory Committee Meeting in St. Paul. They focus on rural issues for hospitals, emergency medical services and wellness. The word cloud chart on the screen illustrates the input the group received from a series of public meetings they hosted to find out residents top concerns throughout the region.
   Coming Up in Washington 
This week:
 The House is expected to take up H.R. 6651, the PEPFAR Extension Act of 2018, extends authorities, limitations, and reporting requirements relating to the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), as initially authorized by Congress in 2003 and reauthorized in 2008 and 2013.
    Finally... 
 Did you know November is Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month? 

	The bipartisan Bold Infrastructure Alzheimer's Act, H.R. 4256, introduced by Congressman Brett Guthrie (R) of Kentucky, has my support along with 209 other members of the U.S. House of Representatives.
November marks Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, and as a Member of Congress, I am doing everything I can tosupport efforts that raise awareness and work toward a cure.Specifically,I have signed onto bipartisan legislation - supported by the Alzheimer's Association - to provide the funding and resources the Center for Disease Control (CDC), health care providers and researchers require to combat this deadly and extremely costly disease.
As it stands now, Alzheimer's Disease is the6th leading cause of deathin the United States - costing a quarter of a trillion dollars each year. More than 5 million Americans live with this debilitating disease.
By working together to pass theBold Infrastructure Alzheimer's Act, Congress can improve quality of life for those who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and reduce human and financial costs associated with it.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=A658D906-E34A-4197-AEA4-DF1F58EF937F,Klobuchar Continues to Press the Centers for Disease Control and for Answers Related to the Increasing Number of AFM Cases and Health Care Costs for Families,2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Seven children have been diagnosed with Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) in Minnesota since mid-September
The disease is a rare but serious condition that affectsthe nervous system and can cause muscle weakness or even paralysis
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) continues to press the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC)for information about the agency's efforts to respond to the increasing number of children suffering from acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) in a November 13 letter. There are now 80 cases of AFM that have been confirmed in 25 states. In the letter, Klobuchar raises concerns about the increasing number of children suffering from AFM and requests information about the research being done into causes and treatments as well as inquiring about the health care costs for families with a child who develops the condition and requires long-term health care services.
While I appreciate your response to my previous letters and willingness to provide staff briefings, important questions remain regarding the CDC's efforts to address the 80 cases of AFM that have now been confirmed in 25 states, Klobuchar wrote in the letter to CDC Director Robert Redfield.
In October, Klobuchar sent a letter to CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield requesting him to share the CDC's plan to address the AFM infections in Minnesota and around the country and requested a Member-level briefing for senators by the appropriate agency personnel. Days later, Klobuchar joined U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Tina Smith (D-MN) urging the CDC to investigate and respond to recent cases of AFM.
The full text of today's letter can be found below:
Dear Director Redfield:
I write to express my ongoing concern about the continuing rise in the number of children suffering from acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), and to request an update on the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention's (CDC) progress in working to identify the etiology of AFM and issuing updated clinical guidelines for treatment.
While I appreciate your response to my previous letters and willingness to provide staff briefings, important questions remain regarding the CDC's efforts to address the 80 cases of AFM that have now been confirmed in 25 states. Accordingly, I respectfully request answers to the following additional questions:
 
The CDC has identified many possible causes of AFM. Is there an update as to whether the CDC has identified a common etiology for the confirmed cases of AFM?
Which states have reported cases of AFM, and what is the breakdown of cases for each state? Do you have any other information as to the geographic areas that have been more affected by AFM? Which states mandate reporting of potential AFM cases to the CDC? Do these or other states only require AFM reporting if an illness is first identified as an outbreak by state and local health departments or other state authorities?
Concerns have been raised that AFM may be under-reported. Does the CDC have a view as to whether incidences of AFM are currently being under-reported? If so, what factors contribute to the potential incidence of under-reporting?
Is the CDC working with scientific experts to consolidate the existing research on AFM from various universities and other research institutions in an effort to provide both the families of those affected by AFM and clinicians the most updated information?
When will the CDC issue updated clinical guidance on the treatment of AFM?
I understand that you recently expressed support for the establishment of a task force to assess and respond to the recent increase in AFM cases. What would be the benefits of a task force like the one you described, and has the CDC taken action to establish such a task force? If not, would the CDC need additional authority, funding, or resources to convene a task force?
A child who became paralyzed from AFM recently underwent an innovative surgery that established connections between newly transferred nerves and the affected muscles, ultimately enabling the child to walk again. Has the CDC studied the safety and efficacy of the procedure for potential use in treating other former AFM cases? What diagnostics and other tools are the CDC and other agencies exploring to enable the earlier detection of AFM and potentially minimize the impact of the condition once it is discovered?
Does the CDC have an estimate of the overall financial burden of AFM to a family with a child who develops the condition and requires long-term health care services?
 
Thank you for your continued work to ensure that vulnerable young patients battling AFM and their families have hope for the future. I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/klobuchar-smith-nolan-announce-more-56-million-loan-electric-grid-improvements-two-harbors,"Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan Announce More than $5.6 Million Loan for Electric Grid Improvements in Two Harbors",2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Representative Rick Nolan announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded Cooperative Light and Power Association of Lake County a loan of $5,670,000 for infrastructure improvements.
This investment will strengthen the Northland's economy for years to come,Klobuchar said.Projects like this not only boost the economy, but also support good-paying jobs and maintain the services Minnesotans rely on.
Improving our electric grid infrastructure is vital to building a 21stcentury economy that works for everyone,Smith said.This investment will connect more Minnesotans with the power they need and spur rural development in the northeastern part of our state.
Investments like this will improve our rural infrastructure, create good-paying local jobs, and better serve the 6,000 residential and commercial consumers in the Arrowhead region of northeastern Minnesota,Nolan said.
This loan funds 35 miles of new electric lines, improving 12 miles of line, and other system improvementsincluding $439,278 in smart grid technologies. Cooperative Light and Power Association of Lake County serves more than 6,000 residential and commercial consumers in the Arrowhead region in Minnesota.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/klobuchar-smith-nolan-announce-more-56-million-loan-electric-grid-improvements-two-harbors,"Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan Announce More than $5.6 Million Loan for Electric Grid Improvements in Two Harbors",2018-11-13,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON– U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Representative Rick Nolan announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded Cooperative Light and Power Association of Lake County a loan of $5,670,000 for infrastructure improvements.

“This investment will strengthen the Northland’s economy for years to come,” Klobuchar said. “Projects like this not only boost the economy, but also support good-paying jobs and maintain the services Minnesotans rely on.”

“Improving our electric grid infrastructure is vital to building a 21st century economy that works for everyone,” Smith said. “This investment will connect more Minnesotans with the power they need and spur rural development in the northeastern part of our state.”

“Investments like this will improve our rural infrastructure, create good-paying local jobs, and better serve the 6,000 residential and commercial consumers in the Arrowhead region of northeastern Minnesota,” Nolan said.

This loan funds 35 miles of new electric lines, improving 12 miles of line, and other system improvements—including $439,278 in smart grid technologies. Cooperative Light and Power Association of Lake County serves more than 6,000 residential and commercial consumers in the Arrowhead region in Minnesota.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:10:16Z
https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-veterans-day-0,McCollum Statement on Veterans Day,2018-11-11,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement in observance of Veterans Day:
On Veterans Day, we take time to honor the brave and selfless service of the women and men of the United States Armed Forces. We dedicate this day to the sacrifices made at home by their families and loved ones who do so much to support our heroes. This Veterans Day also marks a major milestone  the one hundredth anniversary of the Armistice on November 11, 1911.
Beyond our gratitude and remembrance, our veterans and their families deserve the unyielding support of our government.From employment opportunities, to access to high-quality health care, to educational assistance, our nation stands ready to meet our obligations to our veterans.
Yet there is still much to be done, and I look forward to working in the 116th Congress to serve our veterans and their families with the utmost respect and care.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-walz-commemorates-veterans-day-100-years-since-the-end-of,"Ranking Member Walz Commemorates Veterans Day, 100 Years since the End of World War I",2018-11-11,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Tim Walz,W000799,walz.house.gov,,,legacy,"MANKATO, MN  Today, U.S. Representative Tim Walz (MN-01), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs (HVAC), released the following statement commemorating Veterans Day 2018 and the 100th Anniversary of the end of World War I:
On Veterans Day, we pause to celebrate and honor American veterans of all generations for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. Our veterans are the reason so many people in this country and across the world are free to pursue happiness. Their service is our freedom. Their selflessness is our liberty. Their sacrifice is our democracy. Today, we join in solemn gratitude to honor all American men and women who have bravely borne the battle.
Today also marks 100 years since the end of WWI, a devastating conflict that claimed the lives of tens of millions and changed the course of human history forever. Nearly 5 million Americans selflessly put their lives on the line to serve in the conflict, and thanks to them, the Allies were successful in defeating the Central Powers. It was in their honor that President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11th Armistice Day, the precursor to what we now call Veterans Day.
As a nation, we have made a sacred promise to care for our veterans and their families, caregivers and survivors. In commemorating our veterans today, we rededicate ourselves to upholding this promise. We do that by fighting to improve the delivery of care and benefits for veterans at VA, filling the tens of thousands of VA employee vacancies, standing up to those who seek to profit from VA privatization, and doing everything in our power to turn the tide on the epidemic of veteran suicide and homelessness.
This is a critical moment in history for our veterans. There are countless initiatives underway that stand to vastly improve VA's capacity to deliver quality healthcare and benefits to veterans across this great nation. Whether it is the implementation of the VA MISSION Act, modernizing VA's electronic health record, or ensuring student veterans receive the educational benefits they deserve, it is the responsibility of Congress to hold the administration accountable every step of the way as VA works to implement these important initiatives.
While this will be my final Veterans Day serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, I look forward to continuing to work with veterans, veterans' advocates, and VSOs to uphold our promise to veterans. They and their families deserve nothing less.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-praises-coalition%E2%80%99s-letter-support-bipartisan-gray-wolf-state-management-act,Peterson praises coalitions letter of support for bipartisan Gray Wolf State Management Act,2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON  Congressman Collin C. Peterson praised the efforts of 19 agriculture and sportsmen's organizations that collectively sent a letter to urge Speaker Paul Ryan and Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy to place H.R. 424, the Gray Wolf State Management Act, on the House floor for a vote before the year's end.
The issue of removing wolves from the endangered species list is long overdue, Peterson said. Cattlemen and farmers have not been able to protect their livestock due to a political court decision made in Washington, DC that overturned a science-based decision made under the Obama Administration demonstrating wolf recovery in our area. Since then, ranchers lost calves during calving season, witnessed decreasing livestock numbers, and even had their pets killed. I am thankful for the coalition support and hope to get my bill passed by the end of the year.
Last year, the Gray Wolf State Management Act passed through the House Committee on Natural Resources on a bipartisan vote, and is simply awaiting Speaker Paul Ryan's decision to place the bill on the House floor calendar. Similar language has already proven its ability to pass the House several times over the past few years.
The following organizations make up the coalition and signed the letter supporting H.R. 424:
 American Farm Bureau Federation
American Sheep Industry Association
Michigan Cattlemen's Association
Michigan Farm Bureau
Minnesota Deer Hunters Association
Minnesota Farm Bureau
Minnesota Farmers Union
Minnesota Lamb and Wool Producers
Minnesota State Cattlemen's Association
Minnesota Turkey Growers
National Cattlemen's Beef Association
National Farmers Union
Public Lands Council
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
Upper Peninsula Sportsmen's Alliance
Upper Peninsula Trappers Association
United States Cattlemen's Association
Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation
 You can read the letter byclicking here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/klobuchar-smith-nolan-announce-success-in-adding-kanabec-county-to,"Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan Announce Success in Adding Kanabec County to Recent Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Relief Declaration Following Major Flooding",2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Rick Nolan,N000127,nolan.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Congressman Rick Nolan announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has updated its major disaster declaration to include Kanabec County following this summer's major flooding. The change comes after Klobuchar, Smith, and Nolan sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Regional Administrator James Joseph last month urging him to reconsider the denial of FEMA disaster relief funding to Kanabec County and extend the relevant incident period to July 12, 2018, in the wake of flooding in the area.
This disaster relief is greatly needed given the extent of damage throughout Kanabec County, the members said. This relief is going to help communities repair the damage to roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure as well as provide support to Minnesotans so they can fully recover from the disaster and move forward with their lives. 
On September 5, the President declared a major disaster as a result of the flooding that occurred across Minnesota between June 15 and July 11. The declaration authorized disaster relief for 27 counties and the Leech Lake, Red Lake, and White Earth tribal reservations. However, since the damage from the storms did not reach Kanabec County until the early morning of July 12, 2018, FEMA officials originally attributed the county's damage to a ""separate"" weather event, effectively excluding the county from receiving assistance. The state of Minnesota appealed that decision.
# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-calls-to-congratulate-congressman-elect-pete-stauber-and-offer,Nolan Calls to Congratulate Congressman-Elect Pete Stauber and Offer Assistance During Upcoming Transition,2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Rick Nolan,N000127,nolan.house.gov,,,legacy,"(BRAINERD MN)  U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan telephoned Congressman-elect Pete Stauber this afternoon to offer congratulations on his (Stauber's) election victory on Tuesday, and offer any and all assistance in transitioning Minnesota's 8th District Congressional office to the new representative. 
Pete and I had a warm and cordial conversation to discuss the orderly transition of the office, as well as information regarding legislative efforts he may wish to continue after he begins his service in Washington, Nolan said. This Congressional seat belongs to the great people of Minnesota's Eighth District, and my staff and I are committed to ensuring that they continue to receive top-notch, uninterrupted service as long as we remain in office. 
Nolan added that he and Stauber agreed to be in close communication over the coming weeks leading up to the onset of the new Congress in January.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=DCBD70E3-A1B8-4462-857E-9BE2942999DE,"Klobuchar, Grassley Urge Administration to Help Bring Down the Skyrocketing Costs of Prescription Drugs",2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In the letter, the senators encourage the President to support legislation, like their bipartisan Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act, to limit anticompetitive pay-for-delay pharmaceutical settlements 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) sent a letter to the President urging him to support legislation to limit anticompetitive pay-for-delay pharmaceutical settlements as part of the Administration's effort to bring down the skyrocketing price of prescription drugs. Americans, on average, pay the highest prescription drug prices in the world, and competition in the sale of prescription drugs is essential to ensuring that drug prices remain fair. In the letter, also sent to Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar, Commissioner of Food and Drugs Scott Gottlieb, M.D., and Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Seema Verma, the senators encouraged the Administration to support their bipartisan Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act which would help limit anticompetitive pay for delay settlement agreements that can delay the availability of affordable generic drugs for years.
We have long been concerned with the rising cost of prescription drugs and the strain it places on patients and our healthcare system, including critical government programs like Medicare and Medicaid. Noncompetitive drug markets can result in higher prices and reduced patient access to essential medical treatments, the senators wrote.
By promoting the timely introduction of affordable generic drugs, our [Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act] would increase prescription drug competition in U.S. markets, driving down prices and improving the quality of life for patients across the country. We urge you to support this effort to reduce drug costs and increase patient access to affordable medications.
The full text of the letter can be found below:
Dear President Trump:
We write to encourage you to support legislation to limit anticompetitive pay-for-delay pharmaceutical settlements as part of your Administration's effort to ease to the burden of prescription drug prices on patients and the American healthcare system.
Americans, on average, pay the highest prescription drug prices in the world. And recent projections indicate that U.S. prescription drug spending will only continue to rise. Many Americans are unable to pay their medical bills or are forced to skip doses of their prescribed medication.
We have long been concerned with the rising cost of prescription drugs and the strain it places on patients and our healthcare system, including critical government programs like Medicare and Medicaid. Competition in the sale of prescription drugs is essential to ensuring that drug prices remain fair. Noncompetitive drug markets can result in higher prices and reduced patient access to essential medical treatments.
Your recent remarks on this issue suggest that you view the excessive costs of prescription drugs as a bipartisan issue. We agree. That is why we have introduced bipartisan legislation to help prevent anticompetitive conduct in prescription drug markets and foster the introduction of affordable generic drugs. Our bill, the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act (S. 124), would help limit anticompetitive pay for delay settlement agreements, which can delay the availability of affordable generic drugs for years. It has been estimated that these anticompetitive settlements cost consumers and taxpayers billions of dollars in higher drug costs every year.
By promoting the timely introduction of affordable generic drugs, our legislation would increase prescription drug competition in U.S. markets, driving down prices and improving the quality of life for patients across the country. We urge you to support this effort to reduce drug costs and increase patient access to affordable medications.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-reps-emmer-crawford-and-marshall-hill-american-farmers-need-cuban,"ICYMI: Reps. Emmer, Crawford and Marshall in The Hill:  American farmers need the Cuban market",2018-11-07,2018,2018-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"American farmers need the Cuban marketBy Reps. Tom Emmer, Rick Crawford and Roger Marshall
					November 6, 2018
				Farmers across the country are worried. Net farm income this year has hit a 12-year low and is expected to drop nearly 20 percent overall. With falling domestic demand, higher production prices, and competition from foreign producers already hurting our farmers, retaliatory tariffs on U.S. farm exports by China, the EU, Canada, Mexico and Turkey are an added weight on the shoulders of our growers and producers. American farmers are tough patriots, but they need strong export revenues to stay in business. Building new export outlets for American farmers and allied industries has become an imperative, and Cuba should be part of that mix. The list of farm sectors reeling from punitive foreign tariffs is long and getting longer. In soybeans, for example, nearly $14 billion worth of exports to China -- or roughly one third of total US soybean production in 2017 -- will be impacted by China's new tariffs. In dairy, retaliatory tariffs will cost our farmers $1.5 billion this year and another $3 billion in 2019. In pork, almost half of all U.S. exports are being impacted by tariffs. This is not just a near-term concern. Once foreign market share is lost, reclaiming those sales is an uphill fight.
				The positive reactions out of American agriculture to the new North American trade deal is testament to the urgent need for U.S. agribusiness outlets. In the case of Cuba, however, which offers an important growth opportunity just 90 miles away and an overnight voyage for shipping containers from U.S. Gulf and East Coast ports, a different solution is needed. Cuba is one of only a very few foreign markets where the potential for U.S. agricultural growth is quantifiable and achievable. That island spends $2 billion a year on agricultural imports to feed its 11 million people and 3 million annual tourists. Most of its imports are from Vietnam, China, the European Union, and other faraway locations, where freight rates are many times higher than ours. Arkansas for instance is the No. 1 U.S. rice exporter, and Cuba has the highest per capita rice consumption in the Western Hemisphere. However, since FY2009, Cuba has not imported any significant quantity of rice from the U.S. The U.S. held nearly 40 percent of market share in FY2004, but it has been lost to Vietnam and Brazil, who offer credit to Cuba. Likewise, soybeans are also a top export item for states like Arkansas and others and with recent trade disputes, it is important to diversify our trading partners. Of Cuba's nearly $2 billion in agricultural imports, 13 percent are soybean products. In Minnesota, U.S. soy exports could mean combined sales of up to $14 million, corn sales could reach up to $16 million; dairy has potential of $4.3 million. Similarly, many of Kansas' top agricultural products are staple imports for Cuba. Kansas exports over $800 million annually in wheat, but there is virtually no wheat trade between Kansas and Cuba. Cuba would readily buy our high-quality agricultural products were it not for our outdated financing rules on U.S. farm sales to Cuba. While the farm bill amendment allowing market promotion monies to be spent in Cuba is a step in the right direction, to position American farmers as the No. 1 agricultural supplier to Cuba, we need legislation allowing private credit and financing in agricultural sales to that market. Now more than ever, when simple fixes like this could help our farmers make export strides in our own backyard over Vietnam, China, and other distant locations that compete with our farm community, we should quickly make them happen. The savings represented by this fix -- $690 million over 10 years according to the Congressional Budget Office -- is all the more reason to get this done now. For lasting export growth for American farmers, we should also advance efforts to provide reciprocal bilateral trade improvements that help foster a more stable, mutually beneficial US-Cuba trading relationship. As China and other U.S. export markets are redefined, our country no longer has the luxury of shunning meaningful agribusiness markets located right under our nose. Expanded access for U.S. agriculture into Cuba and other new outlets has become nothing less than a matter of economic health, if not survival, for rural America. Crawford represents Arkansas's 1st District and is chairman of the Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management. Marshall represents Kansas' 1st District and is a member of the Agriculture Committee. Emmer represents Minnesota's 6th District. All three are members of the Congressional Cuba Working Group.
				--
				Thisarticlefirst appeared in The Hill.
				###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=618C02AB-143C-43F6-A8F4-5D848D73D4F8,Klobuchar Statement on the Resignation of Attorney General Jeff Sessions at the Request of the President,2018-11-07,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the below statement following the resignation of Attorney General Jeff Sessions at the request of the President:

Now that the President has made Jeff Sessions resign, it is more important than ever that the Special Counsel's investigation continue without any interference. This happened the day after the mid-term Elections for one reasonthe President didn't want the American people to hold him accountable for making the Attorney General resign. No one is above the law.
Given Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker's prior statements regarding the Special Counsel's investigation, he should recuse himself in order to preserve the independence of the investigation.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=E7D46EBB-BFA8-4D36-8334-0DAFC7B601AE,"Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan Announce Success in Adding Kanabec County to Recent Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Relief Declaration Following Major Flooding",2018-11-07,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Amy Klobuchar,K000367,www.klobuchar.senate.gov,,,legacy,"After the urging of Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan, FEMA announces it will add Kanabec County to their major disaster declaration 
  
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Congressman Rick Nolan announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has updated its major disaster declaration to include Kanabec County following this summer's major flooding. The change comes after Klobuchar, Smith, and Nolan sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Regional Administrator James Joseph last month urging him to reconsider the denial of FEMA disaster relief funding to Kanabec County and extend the relevant incident period to July 12, 2018, in the wake of flooding in the area.
This disaster relief is greatly needed given the extent of damage throughout Kanabec County, the members said. This relief is going to help communities repair the damage to roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure as well as provide support to Minnesotans so they can fully recover from the disaster and move forward with their lives.

On September 5, the President declared a major disaster as a result of the flooding that occurred across Minnesota between June 15 and July 11. The declaration authorized disaster relief for 27 counties and the Leech Lake, Red Lake, and White Earth tribal reservations. However, since the damage from the storms did not reach Kanabec County until the early morning of July 12, 2018, FEMA officials originally attributed the county's damage to a ""separate"" weather event, effectively excluding the county from receiving assistance. The state of Minnesota appealed that decision.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/content/klobuchar-smith-nolan-announce-success-adding-kanabec-county-recent-federal-emergency,"Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan Announce Success in Adding Kanabec County to Recent Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Relief Declaration Following Major Flooding",2018-11-07,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"After the urging of Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan, FEMA announces it will add Kanabec County to their major disaster declaration 
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Congressman Rick Nolan announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has updated its major disaster declaration to include Kanabec County following this summer's major flooding. The change comes after Klobuchar, Smith, and Nolan sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Regional Administrator James Joseph last month urging him to reconsider the denial of FEMA disaster relief funding to Kanabec County and extend the relevant incident period to July 12, 2018, in the wake of flooding in the area.
This disaster relief is greatly needed given the extent of damage throughout Kanabec County,the members said.This relief is going to help communities repair the damage to roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure as well as provide support to Minnesotans so they can fully recover from the disaster and move forward with their lives.
On September 5, the President declared a major disaster as a result of the flooding that occurred across Minnesota between June 15 and July 11. The declaration authorized disaster relief for 27 counties and the Leech Lake, Red Lake, and White Earth tribal reservations. However, since the damage from the storms did not reach Kanabec County until the early morning of July 12, 2018, FEMA officials originally attributed the county's damage to a ""separate"" weather event, effectively excluding the county from receiving assistance. The state of Minnesota appealed that decision.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.smith.senate.gov/klobuchar-smith-nolan-announce-success-adding-kanabec-county-recent-federal-emergency-management,"Klobuchar, Smith, Nolan Announce Success in Adding Kanabec County to Recent Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Relief Declaration Following Major Flooding",2018-11-07,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Tina Smith,S001203,www.smith.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Congressman Rick Nolan announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has updated its major disaster declaration to include Kanabec County following this summer’s major flooding. The change comes after Klobuchar, Smith, and Nolan sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Regional Administrator James Joseph last month urging him to reconsider the denial of FEMA disaster relief funding to Kanabec County and extend the relevant incident period to July 12, 2018, in the wake of flooding in the area.

“This disaster relief is greatly needed given the extent of damage throughout Kanabec County,” the members said. “This relief is going to help communities repair the damage to roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure as well as provide support to Minnesotans so they can fully recover from the disaster and move forward with their lives.”

On September 5, the President declared a major disaster as a result of the flooding that occurred across Minnesota between June 15 and July 11. The declaration authorized disaster relief for 27 counties and the Leech Lake, Red Lake, and White Earth tribal reservations. However, since the damage from the storms did not reach Kanabec County until the early morning of July 12, 2018, FEMA officials originally attributed the county’s damage to a “separate” weather event, effectively excluding the county from receiving assistance. The state of Minnesota appealed that decision.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-27T23:10:16Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-1122018-0,Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 11/2/2018,2018-11-05,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Celebrating the Grygla Trail opening in Beltrami Island State Forest
Dear Friends,
While Congress was in recess, I was busy traveling the state visiting with folks on a number of issues important to Western Minnesota. On Tuesday, I celebrated the official opening of a new ATV trail connection near Grygla. Sportsmen in the area have long told me about the need to reconnect the state forest roads that were washed out by flooding in 2002, and I was able to negotiate with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Minnesota DNR to make that happen. We also received some great news up North with the timely approval of Digi-Key's application for a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) subzone status. I worked with the company to get the Administration to expedite Digi-Key's application which will help the company and consumers alike. I have also been fighting on behalf of over 900 Minnesota farmers and landowners to reverse the Department of Agriculture's decision to put a hold on making CRP payments where revisions or corrections to contracts are pending. After talking to Secretary Perdue and following up with farmers, I have been assured that USDA headquarters will send out word shortly that the local offices will be allowed to move forward and run these contracts through the computer system. I appreciate the working relationship that I have with Secretary Perdue and the Department, and I am happy that we were able to resolve this situation for landowners and producers in Minnesota as well as surrounding states.
Sincerely,
Congressman Collin C. Peterson  Minnesota 7th District
 Grygla Trail Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 
This week, I joined Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Commissioner Tom Landwehr, members of the Grygla-Fourtown Sportsmans Club, and the Roseau & Lake of the Woods Sportsmans Club to celebrate the official opening of the Dam 4 Trail Connection in Beltrami Island State Forest. This section of trail had been closed due to flooding in 2002. After negotiating a land exchange deal between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Minnesota DNR, we were able to get this section of trail opened for ATV and Recreational Off-highway Vehicle usage. I enjoyed celebrating the trail section opening with the clubs and riding the trail on both Polaris and Arctic Cat machines. It was great to see this long-term project completed, and I am pleased we could find a resolution for the area sportsmen and women that use our natural resources in this part of Minnesota.
 Tariff Relief Approved for Digi-Key Corporation 
In late August, Digi-Key Corporation applied for Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) subzone status at their Thief River Falls facility in response to escalating tariffs on electrical components. I wrote a letter to the Department of Commerce asking the agency to approve their application in an expedited manner. Facilities that receive FTZ status approval can achieve significant savings through reduced tariff payments and customs efficiencies. Final decisions on FTZ status applications usually take up to 90 days, but Digi-Key received their approval in about two months. Advocating on behalf of our rural Minnesota businesses is one of my most important responsibilities. Securing this timely and positive outcome for a bedrock manufacturing facility in northern Minnesota will benefit employees and customers alike.
Rick Trontvet, Vice President of Administration for Digi-Key Corporation, said, Congressman Collin Peterson's letter and voice of encouragement was no doubt a critical factor in our receiving such a prompt, affirmative response from the Department of Commerce. Approval of our FTZ was an important step and gave Digi-Key another tool for mitigating the impact of the recent China tariffs on our customer base.
If you and your business have questions on seeking tariff relief, feel free to contact Zach Martin with my office at Zach.Martin@mail.house.gov for further information.
 Action for Farmers with Delayed CRP Payments 
On Thursday, I called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency (FSA) to allow FSA offices to make payments on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) contracts where modifications are pending. The agency made payments under similar circumstances in 2013 and should do so again this year. I spoke with USDA Secretary Perdue last week and he promised me this issue would be fixed. There are over 930 such cases across Minnesota, and folks depend on CRP payments to pay property taxes and other bills. I appreciate the working relationship that I have with Secretary Perdue and the Department, and I'm happy that we were able to resolve this situation for landowners and producers in Minnesota as well as surrounding states.
 Northwest Manufacturers Celebration 
I attended the Northwest Region Minnesota Manufacturers Association meeting in Roseau this week. The organization awarded scholarships to winners of their annual essay contest and invited them to read their essays which described the impacts of manufacturing in their communities. With 28,739 jobs at 815 establishments, manufacturing is the second largest employing industry in the 26-county northwest Minnesota planning region. Manufacturing accounts for 13 percent of total employment in the Northwest, nearly 2 percent more concentrated than in the state as a whole. Minnesota's manufacturing workers brought home the second-highest total wages of the state's business sectors last year.
 Redwood Area Rotary Club 
On Monday, I met with Redwood Area Rotary Club to share an update on the Farm Bill and answer questions from the group. Many of their questions were about the relationships between lawmakers in Washington. I told them that it's not always an easy task to find common ground, but that I am willing to work with anyone I can to advance the issues that folks in the 7th District care about. It was a good meeting and I enjoyed my time spent with the Redwood Area Rotarians.
 Dakota Immersion School 
This week, I visited the Cansayapi Wakanyeza Owayawa Oti, Lower Sioux Dakota Immersion Early Head Start and Head Start. Director Vanessa Goodthunder gave me a tour of the school and shared some of the school's early successes. The facility just opened in August and is already full. Children are being prepared to be the next generation of Dakota language speakers by immersing students in their culture while assisting them with school readiness.
 Peterson, Klobuchar, Smith Call on FEMA to Ensure Accurate Flood Mapping for Halstad and Hendrum 
This week, I led a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), along with Senators Klobuchar and Smith, urging the agency to delay issuing new preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps for Norman County until they have been updated to include the flood control projects currently underway. FEMA has the responsibility to ensure their flood mapping is accurate and considers the important work our communities are doing to protect against flood damage. By failing to incorporate upcoming flood protection projects, FEMA will place unnecessary flood insurance costs on households in the region. Including flood control projects on the new maps is a commonsense solution.
Halstad and Hendrum Mayors Lori DeLong and Curt Johannsen shared comments on the effort.
Congressman Collin Peterson, Senator Amy Klobuchar, and Senator Tina Smith are true advocates for rural MN, Mayor DeLong said. Their support in asking FEMA to delay its Red River Valley Flood Plain mapping process will certainly have a positive impact for the City of Halstad. A FEMA decision to delay the mapping process will ensure our citizens are not subject to flood insurance requirements. The City of Halstad is currently in an active levee reconstruction project which is slated to be completed in the later of 2019 which will ensure FEMA recertification of the city levee system. With the delay of the mapping process and upon the completion of the levee reconstruction project, the City of Halstad can avoid any detrimental cost to its citizens. The City of Halstad truly appreciates the work and dedication of its United States Congress Representatives!
The citizens of the community of Hendrum greatly appreciate and are thankful for the efforts of Senator Amy Klobuchar, Senator Tina Smith, and Congressman Collin Peterson in assisting us with working with FEMA,Mayor Johannsen said. Senator Klobuchar, Senator Smith, and Congressman Peterson have always been there when the City of Hendrum, as well as others in the State of Minnesota, needed them. It is assuring to know that our federal delegation listens and stands up for all its constituents in Minnesota. Thank-you Senator Klobuchar, Senator Smith, and Congressman Peterson!
You can read the text of the letter on my website here.
 Opioid Town Hall 
My staff attended an Opioid Town Hall meeting in New London hosted by the Kandiyohi County Drug Free Communities Coalition and the Dan Baker Foundation this week. These educational meetings help overcome the stigmas associated with addiction through panel discussions with experts. Combined efforts at the federal, state and local level are critical to combat this epidemic. I am hopeful that our efforts will not only make a difference for individuals and families but will make our communities better equipped to respond to addiction. On Tuesday, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a Rural Resource Guide to Help Communities Address Substance Use Disorders and Opioid Misuse.
 Tour of Economic Development Projects in Marshall 
On Friday, my staff aide Jacki Anderson joined the Marshall Economic Development Authority (EDA) for a bus tour of past, present and future economic development projects including the newly designated federal Opportunity Zone. The tour featured investments from federal, state, local and private entities working to bring new opportunities to town including commercial development, new housing, recreational spaces and updated infrastructure.
 USA Today's America's 50 Best Cities to Live 2018 
Cities from across the country have been listed in this year's America's 50 Best Cities to Live by USA Today. There are many wonderful places to live in Western Minnesota, and this year two cities from the Seventh District, Thief River Falls and Hutchinson, were recognized by USA Today. These towns are home to many hard-working people and are seeing expansion through manufacturing and technical education.
Thief River Falls is home to both Digi-Key and Textron corporations, one distributes electronic components and the other manufactures outdoor recreational vehicles. Digi-Key itself employs over 4,000 people and Arctic Cat employs 900. I recently advocated for Digi-Key's status as a Foreign Trade Zone subzone to the Department of Commerce and I participated in the ground breaking of their expansion efforts last year. Textron was also kind enough to provide a few side-by-sides for the Dam 4 North Star Trail connection ribbon cutting ceremony earlier this week. Each of these industries are essential to Minnesota's economy and for the community of Thief River Falls. I have also always appreciated Thief River's commitment to the arts, from their renowned high school choir to their active community theater. They also are home to the Ralph Engelstad Arena, a world-class facility where you can watch hockey at all levels of play.
Hutchinson is a vibrant community with a growing economy. I have advocated for the construction of the Harmony River Living Center, which will provide care for senior citizens. As a former 4-H kid, I make sure to attend the McLeod County Fair to and visit with local 4-H students every year. I have also toured the Hutchinson High School's Tiger Path Initiative. One of only a few in Minnesota, the high school has partnered with local industries to provide students with the technical skills needed for today's workplace needs.
I wish to congratulate Thief River Falls and Hutchinson for creating great places to live. I am proud to represent these communities in Washington.
Click here to read more about America's 50 best cities to live.
 2018-2019 Federal Duck Stamp 
  Bob Hautman's winning Duck Stamp // the first Duck Stamp
Artist Bob Hautman from Delano painted this year's winning entry, depicting a pair of alighting mallards. Bob has now won the federal contest 3 times with his latest success. Bob's two brothers, Jim and Joe, are also artists and avid duck hunters. The 3 brothers have collectively won the contest 9 times. Ducks Unlimited partnered with the brothers this year to highlight their art and send them hunting in North Dakota.
The Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp was first printed in 1934, and purchasing one is a requirement to hunt migratory game birds. The program has raised over $1 billion dollars since its inception, and the funds help acquire and protect over 6 million acres for the National Wildlife Refuge System. Folks in Washington gathered this week to celebrate the Duck Stamp Program with a gathering hosted by Ducks Unlimited and the USA Rice Federation. The Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Program is an important tool for protecting wildlife habitat and creating sustainable and healthy bird populations across the country, so hunters can continue this American pastime.
 Newsstand 
 State of Minnesota Seeks Information on Internet Speed 
The Minnesota Office of Broadband Development, located within the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), launched a new tool that will allow Minnesotans to test, map and report various broadband internet speeds across the state. CheckSpeedMinnesota.comis a tool designed to gather information broadband access and speeds in Minnesota. By answering a few questions and running a speed test you can help create a better picture of how Minnesotans are being served by internet providers.
 Deer Season Opener 
Minnesota's firearms deer season begins a half-hour before sunrise on Saturday, Nov. 3. Please ensure that all members of your party are aware of the basic rules of firearm safety, and that everyone obtains the proper license before heading out. You can find additional deer hunting information at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website and join in on social media using #DeerCampMN. You should direct hunting questions to the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.
 This Week in American History 
  Father Lucien Galtier and his log church
On November 1, 1841, Father Lucien Galtier dedicated his log church to ""St. Paul, the apostle of nations."" This name was deemed superior to ""Pig's Eye,"" the community's previous title. St. Paul would be incorporated as a town on the same date in 1849. The log structure later served as the first school of theSisters of St. Joseph, and in 1856 its logs were dismantled, numbered, and hauled up the hill to the St. Joseph's Academy construction site. Unfortunately, the plan to rebuild the chapel as a historic site had not been communicated to the workmen, who used the logs to warm themselves and their coffee.
 What's the Story? 
Based in Karlstad, Mattracks produces rubber track conversion systems for 4x4 vehicles including ATV's, trucks and agricultural vehicles. The conversion allows vehicles to utilize tracks for movement, enabling them to cross difficult terrain that could cause problems for wheeled vehicles. Mattracks has sold products in over 100 countries since becoming publicly available in 1994. They have also been featured in films including Terminator 3, Fast & Furious 8, and the James Bond film Spectre. I display photos of their innovative products in my Washington, D.C. office.
  The Haggerty's (BEMIDJI) and the Alajoki's (MENAHGA) toured the U.S. Capitol Building with our office this week",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nolan-joins-107-members-of-congress-calling-for-answers-on-president-s,Nolan Joins 107 Members of Congress Calling for Answers on Presidents Border Deployment,2018-11-05,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Rick Nolan,N000127,nolan.house.gov,,,legacy,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.]  U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan has joined 107 other Members of Congress in calling on Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis to provide answers regarding the deployment of some 5,200 additional U.S. troops to the U.S. border with Mexico.
The United States can maintain a secure border and the rule of law while still upholding our country's values to protect those fleeing persecution and violence. The use of military personnel, however, will not help us meet this challenge and only exacerbates the potential to unnecessarily escalate the situation, the Members wrote in part.
The letter continues, Instead of working in a bipartisan manner to make comprehensive, common-sense, and humane reforms to our immigration system, the President continues to turn to politically-motivated fear mongering and uses DOD resources and personnel as means to drive his troubling anti-immigration agenda.
The full text of the letter is below.
Dear Secretary Mattis, 
We are writing today to express our opposition to the decision to use additional troops on the southern border to assist U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Congress was recently notified that the Administration is sending an additional 5,200 troops to the border without a long-term plan or an analysis of the effectiveness of previous deployments from this year. 
The United States can maintain a secure border and the rule of law while still upholding our country's values to protect those fleeing persecution and violence. The use of military personnel, however, will not help us meet this challenge and only exacerbates the potential to unnecessarily escalate the situation. This effort is nothing short of a militarization of the southern border to score political points and stoke misleading fears among Americans regarding immigrants. In addition, this decision negatively impacts the readiness of our military personnel who could be training to increase their effectiveness in line with their assigned missions and expertise. 
This latest announcement follows a series of actions the President has taken this year to use the military to support his failed immigration policies. Earlier this year, National Guard troops were deployed to the southern border at a cost of $103 million, with no evidence to date of the necessity or effectiveness of their deployment. Furthermore, the Department of Defense (DOD) supported requests from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to shelter as many as 20,000 unaccompanied migrant children and 12,000 family members. Lastly, DOD internally approved $7 .5 million for advanced planning for a 37-mile border barrier at the Barry M. Goldwater Range that could cost as much as $450 million. Instead of working in a bipartisan manner to make comprehensive, common-sense, and humane reforms to our immigration system, the President continues to turn to politically-motivated fear mongering and uses DOD resources and personnel as means to drive the his troubling anti-immigration agenda.
The President has exploited the caravan of people traveling to the U.S. to seek asylum for his own political gain, and he continues to politicize and militarize this humanitarian crisis as these men, women, and children are fleeing violence and persecution in an unstable part of the world. This is another example of the President using fear-mongering tactics over a humanitarian issue. This use of military personnel and resources for functions outside of core mission areas warrants additional Congressional oversight.  
	
Given this disparate approach, we request an update to answer the following questions: 1. What is the duration of the recent deployment to the southern border for the personnel deployed and to be deployed?  2. How many personnel will come from each component of the military i.e. active duty, National Guard and Reserve?  3. What rules of engagement will troops be under with regard to individuals in the caravan or any other individuals approaching or coming across the southern border?  4. Have any troops been instructed or trained on how to interact or engage in any way with individuals in the caravan? If so, what is the nature of the expected interaction and what training have these troops received for these interactions?  5. How much will this deployment cost the American taxpayer?  
	
With all of these pressing concerns in mind, we request a briefing and written response to answer the questions above, and we request an overview of the current strategy. We look forward to your response and thank you for your attention on this matter.   
	
Sincerely,
-30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/warning-this-is-not-a-drill,WARNING - this is not a drill!,2018-11-05,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Rick Nolan,N000127,nolan.house.gov,,,legacy,"GOP Plans to Cut Social Security and Medicare Are Real - And They Must be Stopped 

	These seniors clearly understand what GOP leaders fail to recognize: Social Security and Medicare are not entitlements. They are earned benefits we pay into from our very first day on the job - and they are not to be used to pay for tax cuts for millionaires, billionaires and wealthy corporations.
Dear Friend,
Let's be clear about Social Security and Medicare. They are not entitlements.Social Security and Medicare are earned benefitswe pay into from our very first day on the job. No two government programs have done more over the years tolift tens of millions of Americans out of poverty, double the life span over just a few generations, and help build the greatest middle class the world has ever known.
That's why I've introduced legislation to ensure NO CUTS to Social Security or Medicare.No cuts in any bill, resolution or conference report.And why I have joined 173 of my House colleagues and numerous members of the Senate incosponsoring the Social Security 2100 Acttoboost benefitsand require those who earn$400,000 a yearor more to pay a little more to keep the program solvent.
Republican Senate GOP Majority LeaderMitch McConnelland other GOP leaders have also been clear about their plans for Social Security and Medicare. They're targetingdrastic cutsto both programs. Why? Because they are desperate to find a way to pay for their$1.5 trillion tax cut  80 percent of which goes to benefit millionaires, billionaires and wealthy corporations and the $779 billion deficit they racked up in 2018 alone because the rich are paying less in taxes.
Senator McConnell has candidly admitted that after the midterm elections, he and other GOP leaders will try and sell these cuts based on thepreposterously false notionthat Social Security and Medicare are, in his words, the real drivers of the federal deficit.
Speaker Paul Ryanhas gone even further, nonsensically terming Social Security and Medicaregiant entitlements that threaten todrive our federal government and national economy to collapse.
As I have pointed out many times before, the real truth is thatneither Social Security nor Medicare are in debt.Quite the opposite  the Social Security Trust Fund is carrying a surplus of roughly $2.8 trillion according to the auditors and accountants in charge.According to manycrediblestudies, simply raising the cap on the amount of earnings subject to payroll taxes - currently $128,400 - by a modest amount would ensure the viability of Social Security for at least 75 more years.
And Medicare will remain solvent well into the 2030's. So there's plenty of time to fix what needs fixing in both programs  without cuts to benefits or resorting torisky Republican privatization schemesto turn Social Security over to Wall Streetbankers and brokers,and Medicare over to the costly, for-profit health care insurance industry.
Here's the bottom line.Social Security and Medicare belong to the American people.We cannot and must not permit these funds to be used to pay for tax cuts to millionaires, billionaires and wealthy corporations.
We will keep you posted as events proceed. Meanwhile, I want to hear your thoughts. Feel free to contact any of our offices listed below orsend me an email.
Sincerely,  
   The Social Security 2100 Act - This is What Protecting and Expanding Social Security Looks Like 

	Our old friend Steve Sack, Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist for the Minneapolis Star Tribune, nailed GOP efforts to privatize Social Security way back in 2004. Our Social Security 2100 Act would expand benefits and ensure the integrity of the fund without a risky privatization scheme to turn Social Security over to billionaire Wall Street bankers.
As noted in the letter above, in response to the attack on Social Security being planned by the President and GOP leaders, I've joined 173 of my House colleagues and numerous others in the U.S. Senate in cosponsoring theSocial Security 2100 Act. Here's a quick summary of what our bill would accomplish:
The Social Security 2100 Act Expands Benefits
 Bumps up benefits for current and new beneficiaries Provides a 2% increase for all beneficiaries.
		
	Protects against inflation Improves the annual cost of living adjustment (COLA) formula to help seniors who spend a greater portion of their income on health care and other necessities.
		
	Protects low-income workersThe new minimum benefit will be set at 25% above the poverty line.
		
	Cuts taxes for beneficiaries Over 10 million Social Security recipients would see a tax cut. Presently, your Social Security benefits are taxed if you have non-Social Security income exceeding $25,000 for an individual or $32,000 for couples. Our measure would raise that threshold to $50,000 and $100,000 respectively.
		
	Holds SSI, Medicaid, and CHIP Beneficiaries Harmless Ensures that any increase in benefits from the bill do not result in a reduction in SSI benefits or loss of eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP.
 The Social Security 2100 Act Strengthens the Trust Fund
 Millionaires and billionaires would pay the same rate as everyone else Presently, payroll taxes are not collected on wages over $128,400. This legislation would apply the payroll tax to wages above $400,000. This provision would only affect the top 1% of wage earners - and ensure the viability of Social Security for many decades to come.
    Minnesota Grants Key Permits for PolyMet Mining Project 
 More reason to be optimistic that PolyMet will bring hundreds of good-paying union jobs to northern Minnesota, advancing 21st Century mining, our nation's green economy, and the battle against climate change and global warming 

	According to industry sources, every new wind turbine contains at least 335 tons of steel and 4.7 tons of copper. And America has one of the fastest growing markets for wind power in the world  about 30% of all global wind-based electricity is generated here in the U.S.A. Wind turbines like these dot the skyline across southern and western Minnesota.
After 14 years and thelongest, most rigorous environmental review process in state history, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued several key permits last week to move PolyMet's proposed NorthMet copper-nickel mining project forward in northern Minnesota.
For the last several years, my staff and I have beenworking behind the scenesto bring all the federal and state agencies involved together on a regular basis to keep the process moving. And now, the issuance of these permits gives us even more reason to be optimistic that PolyMet will bring hundreds ofgood-paying union jobsto northern Minnesota, advancing 21stCentury mining, our nation's green economy, and thebattle against climate change and global warming.
For example, as I have pointed out many times before, new, clean,hybrid carsrequire more than a ton of iron, steel, copper, nickel, and nickel-based aluminum.Wind turbines, which reduce carbon-based air pollution and our dependency on fossil fuels, contain enormous amounts of copper and steel. And everycomputer, smart phone, iPad and printercontain precious minerals found in great abundance across Minnesota's Iron Range.
The simple fact is, we havelimited choiceson how we get these strategic minerals. While we can recycle a certain percentage, the experts tell us recycling will never take the place of mining  not even by half.
So we are left withtwo options:Either import the lion's share of our strategic minerals from foreign nations such asChina and many poor developing countries, where environmental standards and worker protections barely exist. Or, we can mine them righthere at home, where we control the process, create good-paying American jobs, and strictly adhere to themost rigorousenvironmental rules and regulations in the world.
In my judgment, the latter choice makes the mostethical, moral, and economic common sense. So I commend Governor Mark Dayton, the Minnesota DNR, PolyMet, and all the other state and federal agencies involved for their cooperation and hard work in moving this process forward.
   President's Plan to Send 15,000 Troops to the Mexican Border Could Carry $110 Million Price Tag 

	A great many of the people traveling on foot toward the U.S. to seek legal asylum are women and children fleeing from violence in their native Honduras.
It would cost U.S. taxpayers up to$110 millionfor the President to carry out his announced plan to deploy 15,000 active-duty troops to the Mexican border in response to caravans ofCentral American migrantsmaking their way northward toward the U.S.
That's the word from theCenter for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments, a highly regarded Washington, D.C. think tank specializing in defense policy analysis and planning. If the deployment lasts beyond mid-December, that $110 million figure wouldincrease significantlyas time goes on, the Center also reported.
Thinkaboutit. There arealready roughly23,000 federal enforcement officerson the border. Add to that15,000 troops,and the number of military and enforcementpersonnel jumps to 38,000. If we assume that all7,000 migrantswillactually reach the U.S. border, which they won't, we would have aboutfive U.S. enforcement officers dedicated to stopping each and every man, women andchildattempting to cross - including themajority who will seek asylumlegally.
Quite frankly, thatverges on insanity- a crazy and tragicwasteof humanresources.
Now consider what might also be done with $110 million. We could, for example:
 Triple funding forcancer researchat the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for 2019.
		
	Rebuild at least 10 of the 69 Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)schoolsassessed to be unsafe and in urgent need of replacement.
		
	Boost 2019 funding for theGreat Lakes Restoration Initiative(GLRI) by 33%.
		
	Reduce 44 millionstudent loansby an average of 10% each.
		
	Buy 36 millionschool lunchesfor students in need.
 And that's just to name a few.
Obviously, we must protect and secure our border with Mexico. But the Administration has yet to make a convincing case toCongress or the American peoplethat spending $110 million taxpayer dollars to deploy 15,000 troops is the best way to do it. These migrants, most of whom are fleeing from violence and poverty in Honduras and intending to seeklegal asylumin the U.S., are still weeks away and traveling on foot. And at this point, they are unlikely to pose anything resembling a military threat to the Homeland.
   Our Week in Duluth 

	Last week I met with several members of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund in Duluth where I learned more about the importance of supporting advocacy efforts in Congress for Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). I am proud to be a member of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus and will continue to support efforts to battle this terrible disease.

	My wife, Mary, and I had a great time visiting with friends at the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner last night at the beautiful DECC - Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center. I was thrilled to listen to my good friend Al Hodnik, Minnesota Power ALLETE Company CEO, who was the keynote speaker. The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce is a great resource and advocate for businesses and is doing their part to make Duluth's economy even stronger.
 Our Week in Mora 
  The East Central Housing Organization (ECHO) held their monthly meeting last week toaddress housing needs in the southern five counties of the 8th District. This month's meeting was held at the new MYSA House in Mora, which has 24 beautiful housing units. Nolan Congressional Field Representative Rick Olseen attended the meeting.
 Our Week in Brainerd 

	The City of Brainerd and its Downtown Businesses celebrated the completion of the Business Highway 371/ South Sixth Street reconstruction project. The project improved the road surface, sidewalks, underground water and sewer utilities, and railroad crossing. In this picture, Brainerd Mayor Ed Menk cuts the ribbon. Nolan Field Representatives Tiffany Stenglein and John Schrader attended the event on my behalf.
   Finally... 
 IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT:
	Health care enrollment is NOW OPEN! 

	Click on the screen above to hear my important announcement about open enrollment for health care.
It's that time of year,health care enrollment for 2019 is now openin Minnesota. You can visitwww.MNsure.orgto sign up today.
Three important dates to remember:
 November 1st: open enrollment begins at 7am.
		
	December 15th: last day to enroll in coverage that begins January 1, 2019.
		
	January 13th: last day to enroll in coverage (unless you qualify for a SEP').",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://collinpeterson.house.gov/press-release/peterson-welcomes-quick-attention-secretary-perdue-minnesota-fsa-crp-contract-issue,"Peterson Welcomes Quick Attention from Secretary Perdue, Minnesota FSA to CRP Contract Issue",2018-11-02,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MN,Collin Peterson,P000258,collinpeterson.house.gov,,,legacy,"DETROIT LAKES  Congressman Collin Peterson issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Minnesota Farm Service Agency office announcement today that it would resume payments for Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) contracts pending revisions and corrections:
I want to thank Secretary Perdue for his quick action on this important issue. I appreciate the working relationship that I have with USDA, and I'm happy that we were able to resolve this situation for landowners and producers in Minnesota as well as surrounding states. This is why I encourage folks who are having issues with Federal programs or see a situation that needs remedying to contact their congressional offices. Unless we're aware of an issue, we can't help get it fixed. In this case, it was necessary to help remind USDA folks in D.C. that landowners were facing a November 15th deadline to pay their property taxes and the hold-up on getting CRP payments out the door was adding unnecessary stress to the situation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z