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://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/list-gop-lawmakers-object-during-electoral-college-certification-process-grows,List Of GOP Lawmakers To Object During Electoral College Certification Process Grows,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-joe-wilson-to-object-to-electoral-college-certification,CONGRESSMAN JOE WILSON TO OBJECT TO ELECTORAL COLLEGE CERTIFICATION,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On December 31, Congressman Joe Wilson issued the following statement: ""As a former Lexington County Election Commissioner, not just as a Member of Congress, I am disgusted at the irregularities in the 2020 presidential election. The failure to validate signatures, the omission of witnesses, the interruption of counting before completion, the denial of poll watchers for access to fully observe, the extension of ballots received beyond Election Day, and the registration of illegal aliens, allowing non-citizens to vote, are all an open invitation for fraud. I had counted on courts to fully consider lawsuits by 18 states and 126 members of Congress, but the Courts have declined to act and it is my duty to object to the Electoral count because irregularities were never addressed."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=732,Statement on Electoral College Certification,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Statement on Electoral College Certification U.S. Congressman Ralph Norman issued the following statement on Thursday, December 31, 2020: On January 6th, the U.S. House and U.S. Senate will meet in joint session to accept the results of the Electoral College. My office has received a lot of calls asking about my position on this. My position is clear: Because we don't have a thorough accounting of all the various reports of voting irregularities, as well as transparent evidence that the election in several key states was fair overall and remedied where it wasn't fair I will be joining other colleagues from the House of Representatives to formally challenge the Electoral College results from those states. At the end of the day, I believe Congress has a responsibility to ensure that our federal elections are fair and transparent. Individual states, which are empowered by our Constitution to run their own elections, need to ensure that state and federal laws were followed when making their election policies, that every lawful vote is counted, unlawful votes are discarded, and legitimate reports of irregularities are thoroughly investigated and resolved. Because there remain valid questions as to whether several states have actually met this threshold for certification, Congress has a right and (I would argue) a responsibility to examine and debate the results.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/press-releases/duncan-plans-object-electoral-college-certification,Duncan Plans to Object to Electoral College Certification,2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laurens, S.C. Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03) plans to formally object to the Electoral College certification in the House of Representatives on January 6, 2021. He released the following statement: I swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States as a Member of Congress, and with that oath comes the vital role of ensuring the legality and integrity of our free and fair election system. The 2020 election saw unprecedented institutional issues like states changing their voting systems in violation of their state constitutions, unelected bureaucrats changing election law instead of lawmakers themselves, poll watchers prohibited from doing their jobs, failure to properly scrutinize the validity of mail-in voting, and the list goes on. We need to shed light on the issues that took place during the 2020 election to preserve our electoral system for generations to come. Our mission is simple: Count every legal vote, throw out every illegal vote, and investigate every irregularity and allegation. All Americans should be on board with this mission. On January 6, 2021, I plan to object to the Electoral College certification from states that experienced these unprecedented issues like Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. I plan to object for the people of the Third District of South Carolina and the millions of Americans who are demanding transparency into the 2020 election. We the People know this is a pivotal decision for our great country. May God bless the United States of America. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/press-releases/duncan-votes-sustain-president-s-ndaa-veto,Duncan Votes to Sustain Presidents NDAA Veto,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Jeff Duncan released the following statement on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): The House voted this evening on whether to sustain or override the President's veto on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). I voted to support the President in sustaining his veto for the same reasons I voted against the NDAA when it last came before the House. The legislation contained too many issues unrelated to our national defense, and it did not contain language to prevent the closure of the Parris Island Marine Recruit Depot. Thank you, President Trump, for vetoing this legislation, and even though the veto was ultimately overridden by the House, I hope the Senate takes a different course. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-hails-house-passage-of-spending-package-that-delivers-for-south-carolina/,CLYBURN HAILS HOUSE PASSAGE OF SPENDING PACKAGE THAT DELIVERS FOR SOUTH CAROLINA,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"COLUMBIA, SC – Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) applauded House passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Package, 2021, which includes critical support for South Carolina communities. ""I am pleased that this legislation contains significant investments in South Carolina communities,” said Congressman Clyburn. “It is especially essential during this pandemic that every American have affordable access to health care, education, housing, internet, and economic opportunity. The investments in this bill will make progress in all of these areas throughout South Carolina and the Sixth Congressional District.” Congressman Clyburn’s statement on the national impact of the coronavirus relief provisions of the legislation is available here. Summaries of the bill are available here, arranged by subject matter: Summary of COVID-19 Relief Provisions Summary of Appropriations Provisions Summary of Other Legislative Provisions Below are Congressman Clyburn’s priorities for South Carolina that are included in the package: Persistent Poverty This legislation applies Congressman Clyburn’s 10-20-30 framework—designed to ensure that at least 10 percent of funds are spent in counties with a poverty rate of at least 20 percent over the last 30 years, and that all impoverished communities receive their fair share of federal investment—to 18 spending programs, an all-time high. These targeted investments will help expand opportunity in these communities and empower them to emerge from persistent poverty. Broadband Internet The bill appropriates more than $730 million for rural broadband investment through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, including $635 million for the ReConnect program, $80 million more than Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. These appropriated funds are in addition to the $7 billion for broadband internet in the COVID-19 portion of the package: $3.2 billion to help low-income families afford service (a version of which is also included in Congressman Clyburn’s Accessible, Affordable Internet for All Act), $1.9 billion for small providers to replace Huawei/ZTE equipment with equipment that is secure, $1 billion to support connectivity on tribal lands, $300 million to fund broadband in rural areas, $285 million to connect minority communities, $250 million for telehealth, and $65 million to complete up-to-date broadband coverage maps. The package also establishes a new Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. This Office will be tasked with expanding access and adoption of high-speed broadband service, as well as coordinating federal funds for broadband infrastructure spending. This authorization was also included in the Accessible, Affordable Internet for All Act. Eviction Prevention/Affordable Housing According to a recent analysis, 52% of South Carolina renter households are at risk of eviction. This legislation includes $20 million in grants for organizations to provide legal assistance to at-risk, low-income tenants, consistent with the Legal Assistance to Prevent Evictions Act of 2020, a bill Congressman Clyburn introduced earlier this year. In addition, the COVID-19 relief portion of the package includes $25 billion in rental assistance distributed by states and localities and extends the current eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021. Finally, the bill strengthens the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to spur construction of more affordable housing; Congressman Clyburn introduced a bill to boost the credit in 2018. Lake Marion Regional Water System This legislation sustains the FY20 increased allocation of $100 million for the Environmental Infrastructure account within Army Corps of Engineers Construction. The explanatory statement accompanying the bill includes language stating, “The Corps is reminded that the Lakes Marion and Moultrie regional water supply project is eligible to compete for additional funding provided” under the Continuing Authorities Program. This funding will allow the Lake Marion Regional Water Agency to address unmet funding needed to bring clean drinking water access and economic development to Berkeley, Calhoun, Dorchester, and Orangeburg counties. Water Resources Development Act The omnibus package includes the final version of the Water Resources Development Act, which includes: Lake Marion Regional Water System – increases the project’s authorization from $89,550,000 to $110,000,000. Eagle and Chandler Creeks – authorizes a flood control study through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Continuing Authorities Program for Eagle and Chandler Creeks in Dorchester County. Charleston Inland Flooding – authorizes a new Corps of Engineers feasibility study for inland and tidal flooding in the Charleston. Charleston Harbor The legislation requires the Army Corps of Engineers to spend at least $35 million to reimburse non-federal sponsors of projects like the Charleston Harbor deepening, and more than $20 million in funding for Charleston Harbor maintenance. Rural Energy Savings Program The legislation includes $11 million for the Rural Energy Savings Program, an initiative originally introduced by Congressman Clyburn in 2010 that provides low-interest micro-loans to residents and small businesses in rural areas to fund energy efficiency improvements that bring down electric bills. Savannah River Site The bill passed today includes $1.532 billion for the Savannah River Site. This includes $25 million for the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative facility on the campus of USC – Aiken and $11.549 million for Community and Regulatory Support, which funds Payment in Lieu of Taxes that funds schools, emergency services, and county operations in Allendale, Aiken, and Barnwell counties. Telehealth/MUSC The bill includes $34 million for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Telehealth program—a $5 million increase above FY20—including $6.5 million for Telehealth Centers of Excellence—a $500,000 increase above FY20. The Medical University of South Carolina is one of those Centers, and it provides over 100 telehealth services to nearly 350 sites in 44 counties, including 40 hospitals, over 80 schools, and nearly 200 community clinics and other facilities. Community Health Centers This legislation appropriates $1.7 billion in discretionary funds for Community Health Centers for FY 21, an increase of $57 million, and provides $4 billion per year in mandatory funding for Community Health Centers through FY 23. Community Health Centers are also eligible to receive funds through the Provider Relief Fund established by the CARES Act, which receives an additional $3 billion in this bill. Southeast Crescent Regional Commission The legislation provides $1 million for the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission, a significant funding increase that will enable the commission to ramp up efforts to promote economic development in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. National Park Service National Networks This legislation includes $1.5 million for the national networks of the National Park Service. One of these national networks is the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network, which includes four sites in South Carolina and is managed by the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park in Beaufort County. Historic Preservation The bill includes over $21.125 million in funding for historic preservation grants of sites from the Civil Rights Movement. It also includes $10 million for the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Historic Preservation Program, the funding level authorized by Congressman Clyburn’s bill that was enacted into law last year. Historically Black Colleges and Universities Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) will benefit from several items in this legislation in addition to the HBCU Historic Preservation Program. Of the $22.7 billion provided for the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund within the COVID-19 relief portion of the package, $1.7 billion is for HBCUs, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and certain other institutions. HBCUs are eligible for the $285 million provided to connect minority communities to broadband internet. Within FY21 appropriations: $81.3 million is provided for the HBCU/Minority Institution program within the Department of Defense, an increase of more than $40 million over FY20. $48.4 million is provided for the HBCU Capital Financing Program, a $2 million increase over FY20. Within Department of Education Aid for Institutional Development programs, the bill provides: $337.6 million for Strengthening HBCUs (increase of nearly $13 million); $87.3 million for Strengthening Historically Black Graduate Institutions ($3.3 million increase); nearly $11 million for Strengthening HBCU Masters programs ($1 million increase). The following funding amounts are provided to 1890 institutions through the National Institute of Food and Agriculture: $73 million for research through the Evans-Allen Program; $26 million for education grants; $10 million for scholarships; $62 million for extension services; $21.5 million for facility improvements. $6 million is provided for HBCUs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development Policy Development and Research. $36.5 million is provided for the National Science Foundation HBCU Undergraduate Program. University of South Carolina This legislative package provides funding for several activities which the University of South Carolina has indicated they plan to pursue, including power and energy systems in navy technology, unmanned logistics solutions, and research in the use of biopolymers to support water distribution and regulation and energy systems. The Citadel The bill includes $10 million for cyber institutes, which are located at The Citadel and the other five Senior Military Colleges. These funds facilitate further development of cyber curriculum offerings, cyber experiential events for K-12 student and teachers, support for underserved and minority cyber students, cyber internship and co-op opportunities, and mentorship of other universities seeking to establish DOD cyber pipelines. Clemson University This legislative package funds activities which Clemson University has indicated they plan to pursue, including prototyping energy smart autonomous ground systems for combat vehicles and industry grade optical fiber fabrication for energy laser research. The explanatory statement accompanying the bill passed today also makes clear that previous House report language supporting exploration of the potential use of high and ultra-high temperature ceramic-matrix composites in hypersonic flight carries the same weight as language in today’s explanatory statement itself.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://clyburn.house.gov/press-release/clyburn-hails-house-passage-spending-package-delivers-south-carolina,CLYBURN HAILS HOUSE PASSAGE OF SPENDING PACKAGE THAT DELIVERS FOR SOUTH CAROLINA,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,SC,James Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,,,legacy,"COLUMBIA, SC Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) applauded House passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Package, 2021, which includes critical support for South Carolina communities. ""I am pleased that this legislation contains significant investments in South Carolina communities, said Congressman Clyburn. It is especially essential during this pandemic that every American have affordable access to health care, education, housing, internet, and economic opportunity. The investments in this bill will make progress in all of these areas throughout South Carolina and the Sixth Congressional District. Congressman Clyburn's statement on the national impact of the coronavirus relief provisions of the legislation is available here. Summaries of the bill are available here, arranged by subject matter: Below are Congressman Clyburn's priorities for South Carolina that are included in the package: Persistent Poverty This legislation applies Congressman Clyburn's 10-20-30 frameworkdesigned to ensure that at least 10 percent of funds are spent in counties with a poverty rate of at least 20 percent over the last 30 years, and that all impoverished communities receive their fair share of federal investmentto 18 spending programs, an all-time high. These targeted investments will help expand opportunity in these communities and empower them to emerge from persistent poverty. Broadband Internet The bill appropriates more than $730 billion for rural broadband investment through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, including $635 million for the ReConnect program, $80 million more than Fiscal Year (FY) 2020.These appropriated funds are in addition to the $7 billion for broadband internet in the COVID-19 portion of the package: $3.2 billion to help low-income families afford service (a version of which is also included in Congressman Clyburn's Accessible, Affordable Internet for All Act), $1.9 billion for small providers to replace Huawei/ZTE equipment with equipment that is secure, $1 billion to support connectivity on tribal lands, $300 million to fund broadband in rural areas, $285 million to connect minority communities, $250 million for telehealth, and $65 million to complete up-to-date broadband coverage maps. The package also establishes a new Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. This Office will be tasked with expanding access and adoption of high-speed broadband service, as well as coordinating federal funds for broadband infrastructure spending. This authorization was also included in the Accessible, Affordable Internet for All Act. Eviction Prevention/Affordable Housing According to a recentanalysis, 52% of South Carolina renter households are at risk of eviction. This legislation includes $20 million in grants for organizations to provide legal assistance to at-risk, low-income tenants, consistent with the Legal Assistance to Prevent Evictions Act of 2020, a bill Congressman Clyburn introduced earlier this year. In addition, the COVID-19 relief portion of the package includes $25 billion in rental assistance distributed by states and localities and extends the current eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021. Finally, the bill strengthens the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to spur construction of more affordable housing; Congressman Clyburn introduced a bill to boost the credit in 2018. Lake Marion Regional Water System This legislation sustains the FY20 increased allocation of $100 million for the Environmental Infrastructure account within Army Corps of Engineers Construction. The explanatory statement accompanying the bill includes language stating, The Corps is reminded that the Lakes Marion and Moultrie regional water supply project is eligible to compete for additional funding provided under the Continuing Authorities Program. This funding will allow the Lake Marion Regional Water Agency to address unmet funding needed to bring clean drinking water access and economic development to Berkeley, Calhoun, Dorchester, and Orangeburg counties. Water Resources Development Act The omnibus package includes the final version of the Water Resources Development Act, which includes: Lake Marion Regional Water System increases the project's authorization from $89,550,000 to $110,000,000. Eagle and Chandler Creeks authorizes a flood control study through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Continuing Authorities Program for Eagle and Chandler Creeks in Dorchester County. Charleston Inland Flooding - authorizes a new Corps of Engineers feasibility study for inland and tidal flooding in the Charleston. Charleston Harbor The legislation requires the Army Corps of Engineers to spend at least $35 million to reimburse non-federal sponsors of projects like the Charleston Harbor deepening, and more than $20 million in funding for Charleston Harbor maintenance. Rural Energy Savings Program The legislation includes $11 million for the Rural Energy Savings Program, an initiative originally introduced by Congressman Clyburn in 2010 that provides low-interest micro-loans to residents and small businesses in rural areas to fund energy efficiency improvements that bring down electric bills. Savannah River Site The bill passed today includes $1.532 billion for the Savannah River Site. This includes $25 million for the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative facility on the campus of USC Aiken and $11.549 million for Community and Regulatory Support, which funds Payment in Lieu of Taxes that funds schools, emergency services, and county operations in Allendale, Aiken, and Barnwell counties. Telehealth/MUSC The bill includes $34 million for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Telehealth programa $5 million increase above FY20including $6.5 million for Telehealth Centers of Excellencea $500,000 increase above FY20. The Medical University of South Carolina is one of those Centers, and it provides over 100 telehealth services to nearly 350 sites in 44 counties, including 40 hospitals, over 80 schools, and nearly 200 community clinics and other facilities. Community Health Centers This legislation appropriates $1.7 billion in discretionary funds for Community Health Centers for FY 21, an increase of $57 million, and provides $4 billion per year in mandatory funding for Community Health Centers through FY 23. Community Health Centers are also eligible to receive funds through the Provider Relief Fund established by the CARES Act, which receives an additional $3 billion in this bill. Southeast Crescent Regional Commission The legislation provides $1 million for the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission, a significant funding increase that will enable the commission to ramp up efforts to promote economic development in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. National Park Service National Networks This legislation includes $1.5 million for the national networks of the National Park Service. One of these national networks is the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network, which includes four sites in South Carolina and is managed by the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park in Beaufort County. Historic Preservation The bill includes over $21.125 million in funding for historic preservation grants of sites from the Civil Rights Movement. It also includes $10 million for the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Historic Preservation Program, the funding level authorized by Congressman Clyburn's bill that was enacted into law last year. Historically Black Colleges and Universities Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) will benefit from several items in this legislation in addition to the HBCU Historic Preservation Program. Of the $22.7 billion provided for the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund within the COVID-19 relief portion of the package, $1.7 billion is for HBCUs, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and certain other institutions. HBCUs are eligible for the $285 million provided to connect minority communities to broadband internet. Within FY21 appropriations: $81.3 million is provided for the HBCU/Minority Institution program within the Department of Defense, an increase of more than $40 million over FY20. $48.4 million is provided for the HBCU Capital Financing Program, a $2 million increase over FY20. Within Department of Education Aid for Institutional Development programs, the bill provides: $337.6 million for Strengthening HBCUs (increase of nearly $13 million); $87.3 million for Strengthening Historically Black Graduate Institutions ($3.3 million increase); nearly $11 million for Strengthening HBCU Masters programs ($1 million increase). The following funding amounts are provided to 1890 institutions through the National Institute of Food and Agriculture: $73 million for research through the Evans-Allen Program; $26 million for education grants; $10 million for scholarships; $62 million for extension services; $21.5 million for facility improvements. $6 million is provided for HBCUs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development Policy Development and Research. $36.5 million is provided for the National Science Foundation HBCU Undergraduate Program. University of South Carolina This legislative package provides funding for several activities which the University of South Carolinahas indicated they plan to pursue, including power and energy systems in navy technology, unmanned logistics solutions, and research in the use of biopolymers to support water distribution and regulation and energy systems. The Citadel The bill includes $10 million for cyber institutes, which are located at The Citadel and the other five Senior Military Colleges. These funds facilitate further development of cyber curriculum offerings, cyber experiential events for K-12 student and teachers, support for underserved and minority cyber students, cyber internship and co-op opportunities, and mentorship of other universities seeking to establish DOD cyber pipelines. Clemson University This legislative package funds activities which Clemson University has indicated they plan to pursue, including prototyping energy smart autonomous ground systems for combat vehicles and industry grade optical fiber fabrication for energy laser research. The explanatory statement accompanying the bill passed today also makes clear that previous House report language supporting exploration of the potential use of high and ultra-high temperature ceramic-matrix composites in hypersonic flight carries the same weight as language in today's explanatory statement itself. Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership This legislation provides $150 million for the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), which is an increase of $4 million above the FY20 funding level. The Hollings MEP is a nationwide network of centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico that help manufacturers successfully grow their businesses.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A1A22642-A1C0-4F7B-A0B4-8E40F10E95E8,Rice Supports Covid Relief Package,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC-Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) released the following statement regarding the passage of a new Coronavirus relief package. Workers, small businesses, healthcare professionals, and families will finally be receiving the relief they need. This year's spending package included an additional $900 billion for coronavirus relief. It provides direct cash payments, an extension for the Paycheck Protection Program, and a plan to distribute the vaccine,""said Congressman Tom Rice. ""It puts money in the hands of Americans and provides relief to small businesses, restaurants, and hotels to revitalize our economy during these unprecedented times. While this is long overdue and not nearly perfect, it is a big step to fully reopening our economy.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=730,Rep. Norman Applauds Inclusion of Clean Energy Provisions in Omnibus Spending Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), co-chairs of the Bipartisan Congressional Solar Caucus, applaud the inclusion of clean energy and solar provisions in the end of the year omnibus spending bill.These critical provisions will support a switch towards reducing emissions as well as support the 3.3 million Americans employed in the clean energy sector. The clean energy provisions included in the omnibus spending bill include: Reauthorization of the Department of Energy's solar energy research and development activities, Research on photovoltaic, heating and cooling, concentrating solar energy systems, grid integration, and photovoltaic recycling; Establishing a solar energy technology materials database and an advanced solar manufacturing initiative to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities; Improvements in interagency cooperation for issuing permits in order to keep costs competitive for solar, wind, and geothermal projects on federal land. Additional, the package incorporates Rep. Norman's bill H.R. 617, the Department of Energy Veterans' Health Initiative Act, which authorizes a research partnership partnership between the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Energy to help extract meaningful insights from the VA's healthcare data, and ultimately provide better care for our nation's veterans. Growing our economy and reducing our emissions are not competing interests. These bipartisan provisions including in the omnibus spending bill will provide essential measures needed to improve clean energy technologies, and ultimately expand access and affordability for all Americans. Congressmen Norman and Krishnamoorthi issued the following joint statement on Wednesday: Solar energy has been the bellwether for the clean energy industry, and it's critical that we continue to work towards growing the middle class, securing energy independence and lowering our carbon emissions."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://timmons.house.gov/media/press-releases/timmons-statement-omnibus-government-spending-bill-and-additional-covid-19,Timmons Statement on Omnibus Government Spending Bill and Additional COVID-19 Relief,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,William Timmons,T000480,timmons.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congressman William Timmons (SC-04) released the following statement on the Omnibus government spending package which included additional COVID-19 relief: For months, I have called for an additional bipartisan COVID-19 relief package. There are families still suffering and businesses still struggling due to the global pandemic and the restrictions placed on them by federal, state, and local governments. They have long needed additional federal support, and there is no reason for us to have wasted so much time. But politics were at play, and conveniently, Speaker Pelosi is now willing to cut a deal with an election out of the way. Unfortunately, Congress chose to combine this much-needed relief bill with a massive government spending bill that quickly became over 5,500 pages long. We received the text of this behemoth legislation just six hours before we were expected to vote. It is the second-largest spending bill in United States history. I want to be clear: I support the bipartisan, bicameral COVID-19 relief bill. It provides additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program to help keep workers paid, provides funding for building out rural broadband and telehealth services, and includes money to safely reopen our schools. This bill will help unemployed Americans and working families and contains a host of other provisions to help support the American people and rebuild our economy. I have been waiting for months to cast this vote, and I would have voted in favor of this relief package today had it not been wrongfully attached to a bloated government funding bill. But I do not support the reckless, multi-trillion-dollar government spending bill that is chock full of unnecessary spending. I have opposed wasteful government spending since I came to Congress, and with our national debt quickly approaching $30 trillion, I could not support this colossal package. It did not have to be this way, but this broken process is par for the course in Washington. Dysfunction is the rule and regular order is the exception. We are the greatest nation in the history of the world. Our government should act like it.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/more-than-a-dozen-scott-provisions-included-in-covid-relief-year-end-funding-and-tax-bills/,"More Than A Dozen Scott Provisions Included in COVID Relief, Year End Funding, and Tax Bills",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Washington – More than a dozen provisions authored by U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) to help American families, students and workers are included as part of major COVID-19 relief, government funding, and tax packages currently before Congress. “I am thrilled to have secured more than a dozen provisions helping South Carolina families and small businesses in the COVID-19 relief, government funding, and tax extender packages,” Senator Scott said. “Whether it’s improving educational access for students during the pandemic, providing more resources for small businesses to stay open and their workers to stay employed, increasing broadband access to aid with telehealth, or a number of other solutions, this is a great step forward. I will continue working to ensure access to opportunity for all through the pandemic and into the future.” A summary of each provision, along with statements from Senator Scott, is below. Health Care and the Fight Against COVID The pandemic relief package provides the following resources for the fight against COVID-19: $20 billion for the purchase of new vaccines This will make the vaccine available at no charge for anyone who wants it $8 billion for vaccine distribution $20 billion to assist states with testing $600 stimulus checks for both adults and dependents Temporarily extends a number of CARES Act-created unemployment programs Additional $300 a week for 10 weeks (through March 14, 2021) Extends PUA through April 5, 2021 $10 billion to childcare centers to help with reopening $4 billion to aid the fight against substance abuse, which has spiked during COVID-19 $25 billion in temporary and targeted rental assistance Extends the eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021 $45 billion in transportation funding $13 billion to support farmers and the agricultural sector “The first wave of vaccines is here, and it is critical that we ensure their safe and speedy distribution,” Scott said. “We have billions directed to that goal, as well as relief for struggling American families through stimulus checks, expanded unemployment programs and rental assistance. The cavalry is coming, and this relief package provides an important bridge to the widespread distribution of vaccines as we enter 2021.” Better Tools For Healthy Living Act (Scott provision) Included in the government funding omnibus. Studies estimate more than 20% of medical spending in the United States can be attributable to obesity. This provision instructs the Director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to create a guide for effective strategies to help states and localities ramp up their efforts to prevent and combat obesity. The guide will emphasize initiatives with a track record of success in lowering health care costs and preventing harmful diseases. The legislation also instructs the CDC to provide technical assistance to state and local health departments, along with Indian tribes and tribal organizations, as they implement these strategies. The Better Tools For Healthy Living Act is supported by the South Carolina Hospital Association and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. “In order to truly improve our nation’s health care system, we must work to lower costs and strengthen preventive medicine,” Scott said. “Nearly 40 percent of American adults are obese, which shows just how important tackling this issue truly is.” Increases Medicare beneficiary access to mental health services via telehealth (Scott provision) Included in the government funding omnibus. Senator Scott wrote last week on the importance of telehealth access. From that column – “Unfortunately, even as we continue working to improve home broadband infrastructure, outdated federal laws and regulations continue to constrain patient access to telehealth services, especially for our older and more vulnerable populations. More than one million South Carolinians are enrolled in Medicare, where extensive restrictions on geographic location, distant and originating sites, provider-type, and services covered limit many seniors’ ability to take advantage of telehealth offerings.” Secures relief from Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) payment cuts for three years, protecting South Carolina’s providers from grave reductions that would impede patient access to care (Scott priority) Included in the government funding omnibus. A provision to ensure continuity of access to home infusion drugs and biologics for seniors covered by Medicare. (Scott provision) Included in the government funding omnibus. Support for K-12 and College Students The COVID-19 relief package contains $81.9 billion in total education-related relief. Governor’s Education Emergency Relief Fund (GEER) and School Choice (Scott priority): Included in the COVID-19 relief package. The package includes $4.1 billion for the Governors Emergency Relief Fund, specifically: $1.35 billion for an overall GEER to aid schools $2.75 billion specifically for non-public schools Supplies to sanitize, disinfect, and clean school facilities; Personal protective equipment Improving ventilation systems, including windows or portable air purification systems to ensure healthy air in the non-public school Training and professional development for staff on sanitation, the use of personal protective equipment, and minimizing the spread of infectious diseases Physical barriers to facilitate social distancing; Expanding capacity to administer coronavirus testing to effectively monitor and suppress coronavirus, to conduct surveillance and contact tracing activities, and to support other activities related to coronavirus testing for students, teachers, and staff at the non-public school; Educational technology (including hardware, software, connectivity, assistive technology, and adaptive equipment) to assist students, educators, and other staff with remote or hybrid learning; Redeveloping instructional plans, including curriculum development, for remote learning, hybrid learning, or to address learning loss; Leasing of sites or spaces to ensure safe social distancing to implement public health protocols, including guidelines and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Reasonable transportation costs; Initiating and maintaining education and support services or assistance for remote learning, hybrid learning, or to address learning loss “COVID has left too many parents and their children without access to the educational environment they need,” Scott said. “The GEER provisions will ensure states have the ability to aid their students as they see necessary, which I believe will help more students find the best possible educational environment in these challenging times. Public, private, parochial, charter, virtual or homeschool – whatever is best for our students is where our resources should go, period.” FAFSA Simplification, Support for HBCUs and Restoring Pell Grants (Scott provision with Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) and Doug Jones (D-AL)): Included in the government funding omnibus. Simplifies the Free Application for Federal Student Aid: Reduces total questions on the FAFSA from 108 questions to a maximum of 36 questions, building on last year’s FUTURE Act Greatly reduces the Department of Education’s lengthy financial data verification process by instead using data from the Internal Revenue Service Creates simpler Pell Grant eligibility guidelines for maximum and minimum awards, so many applicants will know if they will get a maximum or minimum grant to go to college Enable san additional 555,000 students qualify for Pell grants each year; and enables an additional 1.7 million students to qualify to receive the maximum Pell grant award each year Restores the ability for incarcerated individuals to get a Pell grant Forgives outstanding debt of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with loans under the federal Capital Financing Loan Program Repeals a requirement that limits how long students can borrow under the subsidized student loan program “As we lay the groundwork for life after the pandemic, it is vital that we open every opportunity for every student to succeed,” Scott said. “Whether it be codifying a simpler FAFSA application or strengthening our nation’s HBCUs, building upon the FUTURE Act will pave the way for millions of low-income students to reach their full potential.” Providing support to financial aid administrators as they assist families affected financially by the pandemic (Scott provision) Included in the COVID-19 relief bill. Adds a “Special Rule Regarding Professional Judgment During a Disaster, Emergency, or Economic Downturn” that provides rules for financial aid administrators on how to adjust financial aid for students with zero income earned from work or unemployment in the family during specified time periods. This includes adjustments to program review selection by the Secretary during such time periods. Prohibits institutions from maintaining a policy that denies all requests for adjustments under professional judgement. Requires institutions to publicly disclose the option for a student to pursue a professional judgement. Significant resources for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) (Scott priority) Included in the COVID-19 relief bill. Approximately $1.7 billion is allocated for direct assistance to HBCUs as they continue to respond to the pandemic. Relief for Small Businesses and Non-Profits The COVID-19 relief package contains: $325 billion in relief for small businesses $284 for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Businesses previously receiving a PPP loan can apply for a second draw if they show revenue losses $20 billion for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) $15 billion for live venues, movie theaters and concert venues Streamlined PPP loan forgiveness for loans smaller than $150,000 $15 billion for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) Increased PPP loan calculations for the hospitality industry Expansion of PPP eligible expenses to include PPE, operational costs and supplier costs “Ensuring continued support for our small businesses is the most important thing we can do for our economy right now,” Scott said. “By increasing PPP funding, streamlining loan forgiveness and setting aside specific amounts for community-oriented financial institutions, countless jobs will be saved and small business owners will have more security through the winter.” Resources for the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) (Scott provision) Included in the COVID-19 relief bill. Approximately $25 million is included specifically for the MBDA, which provides grants to minority business centers to assist and provide guidance to all types of minority business enterprises. “Minority-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs of color have been hit disproportionately hard during the pandemic,” Scott said. “This provision will provide the MBDA with critical resources to help folks get back on their feet.” Extended and Expanded Charitable Giving Deduction (Scott provision) Included in the tax package. This provision extends the deduction for 2021 and doubles the amount married couples filing a joint tax return can deduct for charitable giving from $300 to $600 for 2021. Additionally, this restructures the non-itemizer charitable deduction such that, although it can be claimed by non-itemizers, the deduction does not reduce adjusted gross income. “Our non-profits, houses of worship, and community organizations have done amazing work through tremendously challenging circumstances this year,” Scott said. “We needed to step up and help them. By extending and increasing this new charitable giving deduction, these selfless folks will get more of the resources they need to continue their efforts to help those most in need.” Codifying Houses of Worship Eligibility for PPP (Scott provision) Included in the COVID-19 relief package. The Department of Treasury has released guidance providing a framework for houses of worship to access PPP loans, and this provision writes that guidance into law. This will also aid parochial schools. “Our churches, synagogues, and other houses of worship are pillars of our communities,” Scott said. “Ensuring they are treated the same as other non-profits will help not just save jobs at these institutions, but provide emotional and faith-based support for families struggling with the effects of the pandemic.” Local Commerce Revitalization Act (Scott provision) Included in the COVID-19 relief package. This provision expands PPP eligibility for 501(c)(6) non-profits, such as Chambers of Commerce and Destination Marketing Organizations. Support for Restaurants Supporting America’s Restaurant Workers Act (Scott provision) Included in the tax package. This provision provides a 100-percent deduction for business meal food and beverage expenses, including any carry-out or delivery meals, provided by a restaurant that are paid or incurred in 2021 and 2022. Currently, the deduction is available for only 50% of such expenses. This provision is supported by the National Restaurant Association, American Hotel and Lodging Association, and US Travel. “The coronavirus pandemic has devastated our nation’s hospitality and restaurant industries, especially in my home state of South Carolina, and we must do everything we can to speed up this economic recovery,” Scott said. “My Supporting America’s Restaurant Workers Act is a pro-worker, pro-restaurant, and pro-small business bill that will lead to increased spending in restaurants and more income for staff. Commonsense solutions like my bill are no-brainers and will help save millions of restaurants across the nation from going under.” Broadband Expansion Increased funding for broadband across the nation (Scott priority) The COVID-19 relief package includes: $7 billion in broadband funding $300 million to expand rural broadband access $250 million for telehealth $2 billion to strengthen the security of our broadband infrastructure “The pandemic has shown us just how critical it is that we close our nation’s digital divide,” Scott said. “We need to expand access to telehealth, connect the nearly 17 million students without access to quality internet, and continue to help our small businesses innovate. These investments are a great step in those directions.” Connecting Minority Communities Act (Scott provision with Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS)) Included in the COVID-19 relief package. This provision establishes an Office of Minority Broadband Initiatives at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to focus on broadband access at Historically Black colleges or universities, Tribal colleges and universities, and other Minority-serving institutions, including the students, faculty, and staff of such institutions and their surrounding communities. It also appropriates $285 million for a Pilot Program to award grants to these institutions and certain businesses and non-profit organizations in the community to support connectivity, and specifies that at least 20 percent of such funds should be used to ensure that students of such institutions have internet service and devices. “We must expand access to broadband to help underserved communities bridge the digital divide,” said Scott. “By harnessing the power of our HBCUs and creating partnerships with their surrounding communities, the Connecting Minority Communities Act will be a huge step forward.” Making Public Housing Safer CO Alerts Act (Scott provision) Included in the government funding omnibus. In January 2019, two men tragically died of carbon monoxide poisoning in a public housing complex in Columbia, South Carolina. Senator Scott has worked diligently with HUD Secretary Ben Carson and Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) to prevent this sort of avoidable tragedy from happening again. This provision makes sure families living in federally-assisted housing are safe from carbon monoxide poisoning by requiring: Carbon monoxide alarms or detectors in federally-assisted housing, including rural housing managed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA); Carbon monoxide alarms in units that have a potential carbon monoxide source like gas-fired appliances, fireplaces, forced air furnaces, and attached garages; The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide guidance to public housing agencies on how to educate tenants on health hazards in the home, including carbon monoxide poisoning and lead poisoning; The appropriation of $101 million annually for Fiscal Years 2021-2023; HUD and USDA, in consultation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, to conduct a public study on requiring carbon monoxide alarms beyond those mandated by the International Fire Code. “Passage of the CO Alerts Act is a huge step forward towards keeping families safe,” Scott said. “Even one preventable death in our public housing facilities is too many, and this important provision will help put an end to the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning for families across the nation, especially in the higher-risk winter season.” This provision is supported by the National Association of State Fire Marshalls, the Carolina Council of Housing Redevelopment and Codes Officials, the South Carolina Association of Housing Authority Executive Directors, the City of Columbia, SC, and 27 local Housing Authorities across South Carolina. Improving the USMCA Relief for small businesses and auto suppliers (Scott provision) Included in the government funding omnibus. A drafting error in the United States-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Agreement (USMCA) left auto suppliers and manufacturers on the hook for millions of dollars, jeopardizing small businesses and jobs during these already perilous times. The omnibus fixes this technical error surrounding the merchandise processing fee, known as the MFP. “Fixing this technical error in the USMCA is a significant win for small businesses across South Carolina and the country,” Scott said. “This will provide a significant boost for auto suppliers and their employees.” South Carolina Water, Flood and Storm-Related Projects Water Resources Development Act provisions (Scott priorities) Included in the government funding omnibus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-passage-of-covid-relief-year-end-funding-and-tax-extender-packages/,"Scott Statement on Passage of COVID Relief, Year End Funding, and Tax Extender Packages",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Washington – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the statement below tonight following Senate passage of three bills providing COVID-19 relief, government funding, and tax extenders. More than a dozen Scott-led provisions are headed to become law,click here for more information. “The passage of critical COVID-19 relief, government funding and tax extenders is a huge boost for the American people,” Scott said. “These bills mean the COVID-19 vaccine will be available at no charge to anyone who wants it, expanded unemployment and extended rental assistance will be available to American families, and more support is available for our small businesses – in addition to giving our troops a pay raise and other issues critical to our nation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-statement-on-south-carolina-projects-included-in-house-passed-water-resources-development-act/,Congressman Clyburn Statement on South Carolina Projects Included In House Passed Water Resources Development Act,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn released the following statement today on the House-passed S. 1811, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020: “I am pleased the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2020 includes three of my priority projects that will help address important water infrastructure needs in South Carolina. “I have worked since coming to Congress to create and expand the Lake Marion Regional Water Agency, which serves Berkeley, Calhoun, Dorchester, and Orangeburg counties. This legislation includes an increased authorization in project funding for the Agency from the current level of $89,550,000 to $110,000,000. This funding is vital to expand the Agency’s reach to bring more potable water and economic opportunity to this region of South Carolina. “This legislation also authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to conduct a feasibility study to address flooding on the Charleston Peninsula. This study will assess tidal and inland flood mitigation and drainage to help protect against coastal storm surges, reduce risks to human health and safety, and lessen the financial burden on the City of Charleston and its residents for damage caused by repeated flooding and saltwater intrusion. In 2019, Charleston experienced inland flooding one out of almost every five days and rising sea levels are expected to bring more frequent flooding tides in the future. “Additionally, this bill provides for a flood control study through the Army Corps of Engineers’ Continuing Authorities Program (CAP) for Dorchester County. Since 2015, significant flooding has occurred along the Eagle and Chandler Creeks during storm events including Hurricanes Matthew and Irma. This study will help develop a plan to implement flood control measures.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-statement-on-the-passing-of-don-fowler/,CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF DON FOWLER,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"“The heart of the South Carolina Democratic Party for a long time has stopped beating. Politics coursed through my dear friend Don Fowler’s veins. Although he has passed on, his legacy remains strong in the beloved Democratic Party he helped build and sustain. “Don and I met as young Democrats back in 1969, and we became friends. It was in Don’s home that Emily and I first met a young Joe Biden soon after his first reelection to the United States Senate. Don was always the connector, the one bringing political friends and, sometimes, enemies together. His Southern charm and gentle spirit belied his fierce competitiveness and strength of character. I was often a guest lecturer in his master class on politics at the University of South Carolina and an attentive listener to his lectures on politics outside of the classroom. “My thoughts and prayers are with Carol and their children and grandchildren. It is my sincere hope that they draw comfort from knowing that so many are joining them in celebrating Don’s life and are already missing his presence among us.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://clyburn.house.gov/press-release/congressman-clyburn-statement-passing-don-fowler,CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF DON FOWLER,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,SC,James Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,,,legacy,"The heart of the South Carolina Democratic Party for a long time has stopped beating. Politics coursed through my dear friend Don Fowler's veins. Although he has passed on, his legacy remains strong in the beloved Democratic Party he helped build and sustain. Don and I met as young Democrats back in 1969, and we became friends. It was in Don's home that Emily and I first met a young Joe Biden soon after his first reelection to the United States Senate. Don was always the connector, the one bringing political friends and, sometimes, enemies together. His Southern charm and gentle spirit belied his fierce competitiveness and strength of character. I was often a guest lecturer in his master class on politics at the University of South Carolina and an attentive listener to his lectures on politics outside of the classroom. My thoughts and prayers are with Carol and their children and grandchildren. It is my sincere hope that they draw comfort from knowing that so many are joining them in celebrating Don's life and are already missing his presence among us.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://clyburn.house.gov/press-release/congressman-clyburn-statement-south-carolina-projects-included-house-passed-water,Congressman Clyburn Statement on South Carolina Projects Included In House Passed Water Resources Development Act,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,SC,James Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn released the following statement today on the House-passed S. 1811, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020: I am pleased the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2020 includes three of my priority projects that will help address important water infrastructure needs in South Carolina. I have worked since coming to Congress to create and expand the Lake Marion Regional Water Agency, which serves Berkeley, Calhoun, Dorchester, and Orangeburg counties. This legislation includes an increased authorization in project funding for the Agency from the current level of $89,550,000 to $110,000,000. This funding is vital to expand the Agency's reach to bring more potable water and economic opportunity to this region of South Carolina. This legislation also authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to conduct a feasibility study to address flooding on the Charleston Peninsula. This study will assess tidal and inland flood mitigation and drainage to help protect against coastal storm surges, reduce risks to human health and safety, and lessen the financial burden on the City of Charleston and its residents for damage caused by repeated flooding and saltwater intrusion. In 2019, Charleston experienced inland flooding one out of almost every five days and rising sea levels are expected to bring more frequent flooding tides in the future. Additionally, this bill provides for a flood control study through the Army Corps of Engineers' Continuing Authorities Program (CAP) for Dorchester County. Since 2015, significant flooding has occurred along the Eagle and Chandler Creeks during storm events including Hurricanes Matthew and Irma. This study will help develop a plan to implement flood control measures.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://vantaylor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2729,Rep. Van Taylor Announces Winner of 2020 Congressional App Challenge,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Van Taylor,T000479,vantaylor.house.gov,,,legacy,"PLANO - Today, Congressman Van Taylor (TX-03) announced the winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge (CAC), as well as several honorable mentions. While discussing this year's submissions, Representative Taylor stated, ""I would like to thank the students who participated in this year's Congressional App Challenge. My office received over 30 app submissions this year, and I'm extremely impressed with the level of talent and innovation exhibited by these young leaders. The STEM field is so important to the future of our nation's workforce, and it's exciting to see so many middle and high school students from across Texas' Third Congressional District taking interest in STEM skills and computer science."" On Thursday, Representative Taylor announced Srujan Mupparapu as the winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge. Mr. Mupparapu, a 12th grader from Frisco's Liberty High school, created the UpGrade App to help students, teachers, and parents during the COVID-19 pandemic. UpGrade, which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, includes features such as an academic planner, GPA calculator, grade tracking system, and even includes a way for students to communicate with their teachers making learning from home easier. The app also allows parents to monitor their child's learning activities. Additionally, UpGrade has partnered with a local non-profit allowing users of the app to utilize their services including free tutoring. Over 3,000 active users across all ten Frisco ISD High schools are currently using UpGrade, with plans to expand to other area schools in the near future. This Spring, Srujan will be honored along with other winners from across the country during the House of Code Event hosted by the Internet Education Foundation. Honorable Mentions Include: Participants App School Dhroov Bharatia IntelliGuard Wilson Middle School Akhil Kasamsetty, Vedanth Venkatesh, Shyam Bhagavatula FooDono Jasper High School Sarvesh Sathish, Abhinav Bichal, & Rohan Chimalapti OrangeAI Texas Academy of Math and Science/Lebanon Trail High School A 7th generation Texan, Congressman Van Taylor is a dedicated family man, successful businessman, and decorated Marine Officer. Taylor served Collin County both in the Texas House of Representatives and Texas Senate. Today, Taylor is proud to serve on the House Committee on Financial Services.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/17-house-republicans-urge-pelosi-remove-swalwell-intel-committee,17 House Republicans Urge Pelosi To Remove Swalwell From Intel Committee,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-joe-wilson,STATEMENT FROM CONGRESSMAN JOE WILSON,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On December 16, Congressman Joe Wilson issued the following statement after testing positive for COVID-19: ""Earlier this evening I learned that I have tested positive for COVID-19. I will be taking all necessary precautions, as directed by the House Physician, including quarantining through the Christmas holiday. Thankfully I feel fine and do not have any symptoms. It is so important that we all do our part to help prevent the spread of this virus."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/on-3rd-anniversary-of-opportunity-zones-scott-tour-highlights-wins-in-erie-pa_-,"On 3rd Anniversary of Opportunity Zones, Scott Tour Highlights Wins in Erie, PA",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Wednesday | December 16, 2020 On 3rd Anniversary of Opportunity Zones, Scott Tour Highlights Wins in Erie, PA WASHINGTONSenator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the following statement ahead of the 3rdanniversary of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Actwhich included the Opportunity Zones provisionand the release of his second Virtual Opportunity Zone Tour stop in Erie, Pennsylvania. The Virtual Opportunity Zone Tour is highlighting the good news seen in cities and towns across America as their citizens work together to create new jobs and breathe new life into their communities. The Erie Downtown Development Corporation (EDDC) is the textbook definition of citizens harnessing the limitless potential of Opportunity Zones and coming together to revitalize their neighborhoods, said Senator Tim Scott. To put it into greater context, the City of Erie is home to the zip code with the lowest per-capita income in the country, but because of the vital work the EDDC is doing with Opportunity Zones, we've seen millions of dollars in private capital surge into the city. I cannot wait to come back one dayin person, and not virtuallyto see the incredible strides Erie's made to uplift their community. Click video above to watch. Read more onErie Times-NewsandForbes. Senator Scott's first stop on the tour was inHampton Countyin his home state of South Carolina. Created by a provision included by Senator Scott in the 2017 tax reform package, Opportunity Zones are the first major new effort to help our nation's most distressed communities in decades. More than $75 billion in private sector investment has been committed to Opportunity Zones around the country. For more information on Opportunity Zones,click here. ### Related Issues: Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/on-3rd-anniversary-of-opportunity-zones-scott-tour-highlights-wins-in-erie-pa_/,"On 3rd Anniversary of Opportunity Zones, Scott Tour Highlights Wins in Erie, PA",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the following statement ahead of the 3rd anniversary of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act—which included the Opportunity Zones provision—and the release of his second Virtual Opportunity Zone Tour stop in Erie, Pennsylvania. The Virtual Opportunity Zone Tour is highlighting the good news seen in cities and towns across America as their citizens work together to create new jobs and breathe new life into their communities. “The Erie Downtown Development Corporation (EDDC) is the textbook definition of citizens harnessing the limitless potential of Opportunity Zones and coming together to revitalize their neighborhoods,” said Senator Tim Scott. “To put it into greater context, the City of Erie is home to the zip code with the lowest per-capita income in the country, but because of the vital work the EDDC is doing with Opportunity Zones, we’ve seen millions of dollars in private capital surge into the city. I cannot wait to come back one day—in person, and not virtually—to see the incredible strides Erie’s made to uplift their community.” Click video above to watch. Read more on Erie Times-Newsand Forbes. Senator Scott’s first stop on the tour was in Hampton County in his home state of South Carolina. Created by a provision included by Senator Scott in the 2017 tax reform package, Opportunity Zones are the first major new effort to help our nation’s most distressed communities in decades. More than $75 billion in private sector investment has been committed to Opportunity Zones around the country. For more information on Opportunity Zones, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-confirmation-of-judge-joseph-dawson/,Scott Statement on Confirmation of Judge Joseph Dawson,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Tim Scott released the following statement after the Senate’s confirmation vote on Joseph Dawson III, his nominee for the District of South Carolina. “I have had the pleasure of knowing Joe for nearly two decades. He is a lifelong servant of South Carolina, and I have no doubt that he will be an excellent federal judge serving on South Carolina’s district court,” said Senator Tim Scott. “I am proud to have nominated Joe and am grateful to my colleagues for supporting his nomination.” “I extend the warmest congratulations to newly-confirmed Judge Dawson and his family!” CLICK HERE to watch Senator Scott’s statement on Judge Dawson before the Senate Judiciary Committee on November 18. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://vantaylor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2723,Problem Solvers Caucus Endorses House Rules Reforms Proposed by Rep. Van Taylor,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Van Taylor,T000479,vantaylor.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last week, the Problem Solvers Caucus officially endorsed two proposed changes to the rules of the U.S. House spearheaded by Congressman Van Taylor (TX-03) to make the House of Representatives a more effective and Member-driven legislative body. share: f t WASHINGTON - Last week, the Problem Solvers Caucus officially endorsed two proposed changes to the rules of the U.S. House spearheaded by Congressman Van Taylor (TX-03) to make the House of Representatives a more effective and Member-driven legislative body. Upon endorsement from the Problem Solvers Caucus, Congressman Van Taylor stated, For decades, the ability of leaders in Washington to work together in a productive manner has diminished. Inspired by the success of state legislatures across the country, these two rule reform proposals will create a culture shift in Congress, empowering individual Members to advance consensus legislation forward while increasing cooperation between Members from both Chambers and across the aisle. Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Tom Reed (R-NY-23) said, Since we first formed the Problem Solvers, we've focused on breaking the gridlock and making Washington a place that prioritizes the needs of the American people. These common-sense reforms would build on our progress by incentivizing bipartisanship, improving how Congress functions, and restoring member's ability to push real solutions to the House Floor. Speaker Pelosi should include all of these critical changes in the 117th congressional rules package. ""These changes to the House rules will help move broadly-supported, bipartisan legislation to the House floor for a debate and vote. It's time to make getting things done easier, and to stand up to the same old obstructionism. To solve problems, we have to work together to actually govern and to deliver legislation that can get signed into law from lowering heath care costs, to fixing our infrastructure, to helping our nation through the COVID-19 pandemic,"" said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5). To increase collaboration between the House and Senate Chamber, Taylor's 290 Consensus Calendar for Senate Bills' rule would enable House members to formally support Senate measures with a cosponsorship tracked by the House Clerk and posted on Congress.gov. In doing so, this reform would enable Senate-passed measures to be expedited in the House by being placed on the House Consensus Calendar upon reaching 290 House cosponsors. The text of the 290 Consensus Calendar for Senate Bills' rule can be found here. Focused on empowering individual Members of Congress to advance their legislation, Congressman Taylor's Four-Fifths Committee, Two-Thirds Floor' proposal would require Committee Chairs to schedule a markup within 40 legislative days of a measure in their jurisdiction achieving the cosponsorship of 4/5 of the members on their committee. Under this proposal, Committee Chairs of committees of non-primary referral could discharge such measure in lieu of a markup. Furthermore, upon favorable markup or discharge in all committees of referral, the bill would be expedited to the House floor within 60 days for consideration under suspension of the rules, requiring a 2/3 vote. The text of the Four-Fifths Committee, Two-Thirds Floor' rule can be found here. A summary of both reform proposals can be found here. Since the 1980's, disfunction in Congress has steadily worsened. During the 100th Congress (1987-1988), nearly 8% of all bills and joint resolutions introduced in either chamber were ultimately signed into law. When compared to a success rate of just 1.4% during the 116th Congress (2019-2020), the increased disfunction is evident and demands action from Congress to correct course. A 7th generation Texan, Congressman Van Taylor is a dedicated family man, successful businessman, and decorated Marine Officer. Taylor served Collin County both in the Texas House of Representatives and Texas Senate. Today, Taylor is proud to serve on the House Committee on Financial Services.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4180EA54-C03C-43FB-ACF5-5446C679EB85,Graham Introduces Bill To Incentivize Section 230 Reform,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today introduced legislation to push Congress to take action on Section 230 reform. The bill would sunset Section 230 protections for Big Tech companies on January 1, 2023. The time has come for these largely unregulated Big Tech giants to either be broken up, regulated, or subject to litigation for their actions, said Graham. It's time we put the Section 230 protections these companies enjoy on the clock. Graham noted that Section 230 was created in 1996, as a part of the Communications Decency Act, to allow then-fledgling social media companies to grow without fear of lawsuits. Those days have long since passed, as these companies are some of the most powerful in the history of the world. These companies have an enormous impact on the day-to-day lives of the American people and enjoy protections other industries do not have, continued Graham.Both Democrats and Republicans agree: the time has come for Section 230 to be reformed or eliminated. My legislation will repeal Section 230 on January 1, 2023, unless Congress acts sooner. Congress will have two years to find an acceptable alternative or allow the legal liability protections to go away, concluded Graham.I'm hopeful that there will be bipartisan support for this approach. #####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=725,Rep. Ralph Norman Introduces Legislation to Reinforce the Pillars of Our Federal Elections,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,,,legacy,"On Monday,Rep. Ralph Norman(SC-5) introduced legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives to help improve the integrity of our federal elections moving forward. 1. Proof of Citizenship Requirement to Register.This legislation will require proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g. birth certificate, valid passport, naturalization certificate, etc.) in order to register to vote in federal elections; 2. Photo ID Requirements.This bill will require voters to present a valid, state-issued photo ID in order to vote in-person in federal elections. A copy of the voter's photo ID will be required when voting by other means, including absentee by mail. (Important note:this legislation carves out exceptions for citizens who have reasonable impediments to obtaining a photo ID. Additionally, most states,including South Carolina, offerfreeidentification cards to U.S. citizens living in their state); 3. Reducing overlapping voter registrations.When any voter moves to a new state and applies for a driver's license or photo ID, the DMV in the new state will be required to ascertain if that individual intends to register to vote in federal elections in his/her new state. If so, the old state's DMV and state election's official shall be notified. 4. Improving integrity of voter rolls.Before each federal election, this legislation will require states to check ""change of address"" data from the United States Postal Service to help identify voters who have moved out of state. It will also require states to work with the Social Security Administration to identify voters who have died since the last federal election. 5. Strengthening requirements for voting by mail.With the exception of military personnel as well as individuals who have reasonable impediments, this legislation would require a voter to attest that he/she will be unable to vote in-person in order to receive and return a ballot by mail in a federal election. 6. Improving voter verification for mail-in ballots.For all ballots returned by mail in a federal election, this legislation will require either (1) verification of the voter's signature by elections officials, (2) a witness signature, or (3) a notarized ballot. 7. Additionally,this bill will increase criminal penalties for mail-in balloting fraud, create a federal hotline to report fraud in federal elections, and establish a federal research program on best practices, security, and procedures for federal elections. Rep. Normanissued the following statement on the bill: ""This is not a partisan issue. Democrats and Republicans alike should demand integrity in our federal election systems. It's critical that we safeguard lawful votes and take every reasonable step to prevent unlawful votes and provide full election transparency to the American people. This election has shown me the need to address our federal voting laws, and I want to thank the other Republicans from the South Carolina delegation to the House of Representatives for co-sponsoring this as well as their leadership on this important issue."" ""Election integrity is an American right and this bill will target potential harmful irregularities in our federal election system. I am grateful to cosponsor this important legislation with Congressman Ralph Norman and my fellow South Carolina Republican members to ensure that all legal votes are counted and all fraudulent votes are not. I especially appreciate this effort as a former election commissioner myself. Rep. Jeff Duncansaid: The American people depend on secure elections where every legal vote is counted and every illegal vote is thrown out. We need the necessary safeguards in the SAVE America Act to ensure ballot integrity, eliminate fraud and abuse, and respect the rule of law. Now more than ever, the American people deserve confidence and faith in the electoral process, which is why this legislation is crucial moving forward. Rep. Tom Ricesaid: I am proud to co-sponsor the SAVE America Act. The recent federal election has demonstrated the need to ensure the integrity of our democracy. With new threats facing our electoral systems, we must continue to update our election laws and improve security by passing this urgently needed legislation. Americans should be confident in the integrity of their right to vote. Free and fair elections are the bedrock of our democracy. One of the most important things we can do to protect the integrity of our elections is to ensure that only legal ballots are cast by actual eligible voters. TheSAVE America Actcontains common-sense provisions to ensure voters' identities and help protect our electoral system from fraud and abuse. Now more than ever, Congress must take action to assure the American people they can have faith in our elections.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E68C03D8-0B7D-4222-A77E-7E5E82F843C7,Rep. Rice Cosponsors Legislation to Improve Election Security,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) along with Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC), Rep. Joe Wilson(R-SC),Rep.JeffDuncan(R-SC), andRep. William Timmons(R-SC) introduced theSecuring And Verifying Elections (SAVE) in America Act.I am proud to co-sponsor the SAVE America Act. The recent federal election has demonstrated the need to ensure the integrity of our democracy. With new threats facing our electoral systems, we must continue to update our election laws and improve security by passing this urgently needed legislation. Americans should be confident in the integrity of their right to vote,""said Congressman Tom Rice. Read the full texthere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://timmons.house.gov/media/press-releases/timmons-congratulates-lockheed-martin-greenville-f-16-depot-contract,Timmons Congratulates Lockheed Martin Greenville on F-16 Depot Contract,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,William Timmons,T000480,timmons.house.gov,,,legacy,"Greenville, SC Today, the U.S. Air Force's F-16 System Program Office within the Fighters and Advanced Aircraft Directorate announced a $900 million F-16 Continental United States (CONUS) Depot contract to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Under this contract, the Lockheed Martin Greenville Operations facility located in Greenville, S.C. will become the first-ever F-16 industry depot in the United States. Congressman William Timmons (SC-04) released the following statement. We are thrilled the Air Force has chosen Lockheed Martin Greenville for their F-16 Depot Overflow program, said Rep. William Timmons (SC-04). Lockheed Martin's Greenville site will now both produce and maintain F-16s. This 10-year contract is expected to place 15 F-16s at the site each year for substantial maintenance work, adding 50-80 new jobs in support of this program. I was proud to support Lockheed Martin's efforts in securing this contract along with the rest of the South Carolina congressional delegation. We are grateful to the Air Force for awarding this contract today, and we look forward to Greenville becoming the Center of Excellence for the F-16 Fighting Falcon. We are honored to have been selected for the U.S. Air Force's F-16 Depot Overflow program, said Mike Fox, Lockheed Martin Greenville site director. This is a great win for our team, community, and state and positions our Greenville site as the Center of Excellence for F-16, now supporting both F-16 production and F-16 sustainment. Background: In November, Congressman William Timmons sent a letter to Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett in support of Lockheed Martin Greenville as the Air Force's F-16 Depot site. Congressman Timmons was joined by the entire South Carolina delegation. Text of the letter can be found here",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8F2AD0ED-2CD9-4060-8C82-0433B3C770A3,Graham On Attorney General Barr,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement on news that William Barr will step down as Attorney General this month. I have nothing but total respect and admiration for the job done by William Barr as Attorney General of the United States. As Attorney General, Mr. Barr vigorously pursued the corruption that was Crossfire Hurricane and has made a real genuine effort to restore credibility to the Department of Justice after the leadership of Comey and McCabe. Attorney General Barr has much to be proud of. When it came to the law, he played it straight and has set in motion many reforms to the FISA process that will pay dividends over time and, under his leadership, the Department has taken a very hard look at social media platforms. William Barr was the right man at the right time in overseeing highly political investigations and stood in the breach at times against both the left and the right. America has greatly benefitted from the service of William Barr as Attorney General, and I wish him well in all future endeavors. I have tremendous confidence in Deputy Attorney General Rosen, who will now be the acting Attorney General. He is a good man and will be an ethical leader and a steady hand at the Department of Justice. #####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D96AC403-E66F-4B6A-BB24-F60927338398,Graham Applauds U.S. Sanctions Against Turkey,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement on news that the Trump administration will implement sanctions against Turkey following their purchase and testing of the Russian S-400 air defense system. I strongly support the Trump administration leveling sanctions on Turkey over the purchase and testing of the Russian S-400 air defense system. President Trump gave Turkey every opportunity to cooperate, yet they have refused. I very much appreciate Secretary Pompeo's resolve to hold Turkey accountable. Turkey is an ally, although many of its actions of late have been difficult to comprehend. I hope this latest action by the Trump administration will serve as a wake-up call and a catalyst for Turkey to move away from partnerships with countries like Russia and Iran. I truly regret that Turkey's leaders chose to abandon thousands of F-35 jobs and invite sanctions on an already struggling Turkish economy. There is no question that the sanctions implemented on Turkey today are the fault of Turkish officials alone. #####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-and-colleagues-celebrate-passage-of-bill-to-train-pilots-support-rotc-students-at-hbcus/,"Scott and colleagues celebrate passage of bill to train pilots, support ROTC students at HBCUs",2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"The FLIGHT Act will provide resources for ROTC students at HBCUs and minority institutions, improving diversity in military leadership and in highly skilled sectors like aviation WASHINGTON – The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed by the Senate includes The Fostering Leadership and Inclusion by Growing HBCU Training (FLIGHT) Act of 2020. The legislation was led by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and U.S. Representatives Anthony Brown (D-Md.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), and Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-N.C.) in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill was co-sponsored by Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Tom Carper (D-Del.). The FLIGHT Act will provide new resources for Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and minority institutions, with special emphasis on support for flight training. The bill now heads to the president’s desk for signature. “America’s military is more resilient now because of the recent commitments we’ve made to improve readiness, while diversifying our ranks,” said Senator Tim Scott. “HBCUs are filled with strong leaders ready to serve our nation in uniform and build upon the strength of our diverse armed services.” “I am proud that the NDAA includes the bipartisan FLIGHT Act, which will help ensure our leaders and role models in Delaware and across the country reflect the diversity of America itself,” said Senator Chris Coons. “Our service members come from all walks of life, but people of color remain underrepresented at the military’s highest levels. Our current officers in uniform will become our policy experts, our CEOs, and often our political leaders, and the FLIGHT Act is just one of many steps we must take to ensure that those who lead our country also fully represent it.” “This is an outstanding opportunity to boost diversity in our military,” said Senator Thom Tillis. “This legislation will allow HBCUs, like Elizabeth City State University, to invest additional resources for ROTC programs and increase training opportunities for students. I’m proud to work across the aisle to support this bipartisan legislation that will provide more access to pilot training and help advance the promising military careers of young men and women who are serving our nation.” “Like many others who’ve had the privilege of leading men and women in our armed forces, I know our people are our military’s greatest assets and diversity is a source of enduring strength. That’s why I’m proud to see the FLIGHT Act included in this year’s NDAA. With the FLIGHT ACT, we are breaking down barriers and building a diverse leadership corps by investing in the training of ROTC students at Delaware State University and other HBCUs across the country,” said Senator Tom Carper. “As a ROTC student who went on to proudly serve as a naval flight officer, I know the skills these students will learn as part of their aviation and ROTC training will not only contribute to our national security, they will also be an invaluable foundation for success in their military and civilian careers as well. I thank Senator Coons and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester for their work on this bill and I look forward to making sure that students who are eager to take flight and serve their nation will reap the benefits.” People of color are underrepresented in American military leadership—particularly at higher ranks and in high-investment, training-intensive specialties like aviation. As a whole, the Air Force is almost 20% African-American. But that diversity is deceptive: only 1.7% of Air Force pilots (and less than 3% of civilian pilots) are Black. Similar asymmetries affect other branches of the Armed Forces. Aspiring military aviators can significantly improve their career prospects with undergraduate pilot training, but ROTC scholarships do not cover flight training costs. This makes it more difficult for low-income students to become pilots. The FLIGHT Act establishes two pilot programs, with the goals of: Lowering the barriers to ROTC participation for students at HBCUs and minority institutions. Many ROTC students at HBCUs must commute to host institutions for classes—often over long distances. This bill would provide funding and resources to mitigate that inconvenience, in part by encouraging partnerships between the institutions and nearby military bases. Supplementing flight training costs for ROTC members enrolled at HBCUs. While these funds can be used at commercial flight schools, priority is given to students who would also receive their flight training at HBCUs. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/press-releases/duncan-statement-operation-warp-speed,Duncan Statement on Operation Warp Speed,2020-12-12,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laurens, S.C. Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03) released the following statement on Operation Warp Speed and the Pfizer and BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine Emergency Use Authorization approval: Operation Warp Speed has provided great promise to the American people amid an unprecedented global pandemic. I applaud Pfizer and BioNTech, as well as President Trump and his Administration, on their hard work and dedication that has yielded this historic accomplishment for our country. The approval of the Pfizer and BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is a tremendous step toward beating this novel virus, and I know President Trump, the leaders of Operation Warp Speed, and our state leaders are well prepared for the distribution process. While I believe the COVID-19 vaccine is a critically beneficial tool, especially for those most at risk for contracting the virus, I also believe it is of the utmost importance to remember that in the United States, we value and respect the rights of the individual. With that being said, I believe the decision on whether or not to take the COVID-19 vaccine should remain between a patient and their doctor, not the state or federal government, and I will always fight to protect that right. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/106-house-republicans-back-texas-challenge-election-results-supreme-court,106 House Republicans back Texas challenge of election results at Supreme Court,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-introduces-stop-the-killing-in-syria-act,WILSON INTRODUCES STOP THE KILLING IN SYRIA ACT,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On December 10, Congressman Joe Wilson introduced H.R. 8931, the Stop the Killing in Syria Act which would enact the toughest sanctions ever proposed on the Assad regime in Syria, make it U.S. policy to support a free and democratic Syria, require a strategy to support a democratic Syria and prohibit any future President from recognizing the Assad regime or recognizing Assad as the President of Syria. The policies in the bill were mostly first recommended as part of the Republican Study Committee National Security Strategy led by Chairman Joe Wilson which was released in June. The bill is part of a larger push by the Republican Study Committee to introduce conservative foreign policy legislation standing for American leadership around the world. ""I appreciate President Donald Trump's leadership in holding Bashar Al-Assad accountable for his crimes. From the coalition-led missile strikes on Assad after his use of chemical weapons, his enforcement of the Caesar Act, and his maximum pressure campaign on Iran, which has led to a significant withdrawal of Iranian forces,"" said Congressman Wilson. ""Yet Congress must do more to stop Assad's killing of Syrian people and the entities which fund it. As Chairman of the Republican Study Committee National Security Taskforce, I am grateful to introduce the Stop the Killing in Syria Act on behalf of the House Republican Study Committee, which implements important recommendations of intensified sanctions from our June National Security Strategy Report and addresses human rights atrocities committed by the Assad regime."" A short summary of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/12/11/2020/scott-applauds-passage-of-fy21-ndaa,Scott Applauds Passage of FY21 NDAA,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Friday | December 11, 2020 Scott Applauds Passage of FY21 NDAA WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the following statement upon the Senate passage of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act: ""South Carolina serves as a training ground for our servicemembers, but most importantly it serves as a home for the brave men and women who serve this nation,said Senator Tim Scott. I am proud that we were able to increase funding for America's military institutions with some of the most important ones located in South Carolina for the Department of Defense's HBCU Research, Development, Testing, and Evaluation program, and for pay raises for our military families. South Carolinians are all too familiar with the sacrifices of our military members, and I am glad that Congress is responding to those sacrifices by providing much-needed resources. I look forward to continuing to strengthen our Armed Services to ensure that America remains the greatest and most powerful nation on earth."" The FY21NDAAauthorizes $740.5 billion to support our servicemembers. The funding includes a three percent pay raise for all members of the armed forcesfor the second year in a row,includes oversight measures to ensure previous reforms to military housing are implemented as intended,continues investmentsin 5G technology, andprioritizes support for family readiness, spouse employment, and child care. Below is a list of provisions championed by Sen. Scott: An increase of $27 millionover the President's budgetfor the Department of Defense's HBCU Research, Development, Testing, and Evaluation programfor a total of $57 million $9.1 billion to procure 95 joint strike fighter aircraft, a number of which will be based in South Carolina South Carolina specific provisions are listed below: $15 million for Joint Base Charleston $7 million for Fort Jackson $1.53 billion for the Savannah River Site (SRS) $25 million for Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Facility (AMC) ### Related Issues: Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/12/11/2020/scott-bill-to-strengthen-partnerships-between-hbcus-and-federal-agencies-headed-to-white-house,Scott Bill To Strengthen Partnerships Between HBCUs and Federal Agencies Headed To White House,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Friday | December 11, 2020 Scott Bill To Strengthen Partnerships Between HBCUs and Federal Agencies Headed To White House WASHINGTON Today, the United States Senate passed the HBCU Propelling Agency Relationships Towards a New Era of Results for Students (PARTNERS) Act, introduced by U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.).The bill, previously passed in the U.S. House of Representatives, is now headed to the president's desk for a signature.If signed into law, this legislation will strengthen partnerships between federal agencies and the country's more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The HBCU PARTNERS Act builds on the President's 2017 executive order on HBCUs. It will require federal agencies with relevant grants and programs to undertake annual planning and coordinate their efforts to support and expand HBCU participation those programs. The bill strengthens the rigor and transparency requirements of existing law by requiring that agencies track their progress toward past goals and share their plans with Congress. In addition, it codifies the President's Board of Advisors on HBCUs, ensuring an ongoing avenue for the institutions' priorities and policy concerns to be raised. OurHBCUs have unlocked opportunities for generations of students, especially in underserved communities, and I am excited that this bipartisan bill is making its way to thePresident's desk,said Senator Tim Scott. TheHBCU PARTNERSAct is a great step forward for these schools and their students.Ilook forward tothis criticallegislation being signed into law to help these institutions continue their legacies. HBCUs like Delaware State University play a critical role in helping to ensure that every American has access to higher education, and I'm so proud that our bipartisan bill to support the missions of HBCUs is one step closer to becoming law, said Senator Coons. We have much more work ahead to make college accessible and affordable for all Americans, and HBCUs are an important part of that work,said Senator Chris Coons. The HBCU PARTNERS Act was co-sponsored by U.S. Senators David Perdue (R-GA), Doug Jones (D-AL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mike Braun (R-IN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). A companion bill was introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives Mark Walker (NC-06) and Alma Adams (NC-12). Creating a comprehensive federal partnership with America's HBCUs is essential for Congress' shared goal of directing unprecedented support for North Carolina's HBCUs like North Carolina A&T, Winston-Salem State, Elizabeth City State, North Carolina Central, Bennett, Johnson, C. Smith, and Shaw proud and historic institutions which I am privileged to support,Walker said.With this bipartisan legislation passed through Congress and on its way to the president's desk, the HBCU PARTNERS Act further cements our nation's commitment to these vital educational institutions. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are agents of access and equity in this country, said Congresswoman Adams. TheHBCU PARTNERS Actrecognizes these contributions in the most important way possible: by affording these institutions the ongoing support and investment needed to deepen their transformational work. This legislation will require every administration and the federal agencies it manages to plan and coordinate, on an annual basis, their efforts to strategically engage with and invest in HBCUs. In addition, it codifies the President's Board of Advisors on HBCUs, ensuring an ongoing avenue for HBCU priorities and policy concerns to be raised and addressed.Advancing the mission of HBCUs and the success of the communities they serve must be on the minds of our country's leaders, and more importantly, it must be part of their agendas. Thank you to my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus and the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus for their support, as well as all of the organizations that are tireless advocates for HBCUs, in getting this bill passed,Adams concluded. Full text of the bill is availableHERE. ### Related Issues: Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/passed-senator-scotts-paid-act-reforming-medicare-provision/,PASSED: Senator Scott’s PAID Act Reforming Medicare Provision,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the following statement upon the passage of his Provide Accurate Information Directly (PAID) Act, which will save tens of millions of taxpayer dollars through targeted and commonsense updates to Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) statute. “Today, the PAID Act has taken a pivotal step closer to becoming law, filling in Medicare-related potholes that have cost seniors, Main Street job creators, and the American taxpayer millions of dollars over the years. Decades-old regulations and bureaucratic red tape have caused confusion and avoidable litigation in the MSP for far too long, and by eliminating those problems we can help seniors and families across the country. I feel confident that we can see the PAID Act signed into law by the end of the year.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-applauds-passage-of-fy21-ndaa/,Scott Applauds Passage of FY21 NDAA,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the following statement upon the Senate passage of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act: “South Carolina serves as a training ground for our servicemembers, but most importantly it serves as a home for the brave men and women who serve this nation,” said Senator Tim Scott. “I am proud that we were able to increase funding for America’s military institutions – with some of the most important ones located in South Carolina – for the Department of Defense’s HBCU Research, Development, Testing, and Evaluation program, and for pay raises for our military families. South Carolinians are all too familiar with the sacrifices of our military members, and I am glad that Congress is responding to those sacrifices by providing much-needed resources. I look forward to continuing to strengthen our Armed Services to ensure that America remains the greatest and most powerful nation on earth.” The FY21 NDAA authorizes $740.5 billion to support our servicemembers. The funding includes a three percent pay raise for all members of the armed forces for the second year in a row, includes oversight measures to ensure previous reforms to military housing are implemented as intended, continues investments in 5G technology, and prioritizes support for family readiness, spouse employment, and child care. Below is a list of provisions championed by Sen. Scott: An increase of $27 million over the President’s budget for the Department of Defense’s HBCU Research, Development, Testing, and Evaluation program for a total of $57 million $9.1 billion to procure 95 joint strike fighter aircraft, a number of which will be based in South Carolina South Carolina specific provisions are listed below: $15 million for Joint Base Charleston $7 million for Fort Jackson $1.53 billion for the Savannah River Site (SRS) $25 million for Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Facility (AMC) ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-bill-to-strengthen-partnerships-between-hbcus-and-federal-agencies-headed-to-white-house/,Scott Bill To Strengthen Partnerships Between HBCUs and Federal Agencies Headed To White House,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the United States Senate passed the HBCU Propelling Agency Relationships Towards a New Era of Results for Students (PARTNERS) Act, introduced by U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.). The bill, previously passed in the U.S. House of Representatives, is now headed to the president’s desk for a signature. If signed into law, this legislation will strengthen partnerships between federal agencies and the country’s more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The HBCU PARTNERS Act builds on the President’s 2017 executive order on HBCUs. It will require federal agencies with relevant grants and programs to undertake annual planning and coordinate their efforts to support and expand HBCU participation those programs. The bill strengthens the rigor and transparency requirements of existing law by requiring that agencies track their progress toward past goals and share their plans with Congress. In addition, it codifies the President’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs, ensuring an ongoing avenue for the institutions’ priorities and policy concerns to be raised. “Our HBCUs have unlocked opportunities for generations of students, especially in underserved communities, and I am excited that this bipartisan bill is making its way to the President’s desk,” said Senator Tim Scott. “The HBCU PARTNERS Act is a great step forward for these schools and their students. I look forward to this critical legislation being signed into law to help these institutions continue their legacies.” “HBCUs like Delaware State University play a critical role in helping to ensure that every American has access to higher education, and I’m so proud that our bipartisan bill to support the missions of HBCUs is one step closer to becoming law,” said Senator Coons. “We have much more work ahead to make college accessible and affordable for all Americans, and HBCUs are an important part of that work,” said Senator Chris Coons. The HBCU PARTNERS Act was co-sponsored by U.S. Senators David Perdue (R-GA), Doug Jones (D-AL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mike Braun (R-IN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). A companion bill was introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives Mark Walker (NC-06) and Alma Adams (NC-12). “Creating a comprehensive federal partnership with America’s HBCUs is essential for Congress’ shared goal of directing unprecedented support for North Carolina’s HBCUs like North Carolina A&T, Winston-Salem State, Elizabeth City State, North Carolina Central, Bennett, Johnson, C. Smith, and Shaw – proud and historic institutions which I am privileged to support,” Walker said. “With this bipartisan legislation passed through Congress and on its way to the president’s desk, the HBCU PARTNERS Act further cements our nation’s commitment to these vital educational institutions.” “Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are agents of access and equity in this country, said Congresswoman Adams. “The HBCU PARTNERS Act recognizes these contributions in the most important way possible: by affording these institutions the ongoing support and investment needed to deepen their transformational work. This legislation will require every administration and the federal agencies it manages to plan and coordinate, on an annual basis, their efforts to strategically engage with and invest in HBCUs. In addition, it codifies the President’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs, ensuring an ongoing avenue for HBCU priorities and policy concerns to be raised and addressed. Advancing the mission of HBCUs and the success of the communities they serve must be on the minds of our country’s leaders, and more importantly, it must be part of their agendas.” “Thank you to my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus and the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus for their support, as well as all of the organizations that are tireless advocates for HBCUs, in getting this bill passed,” Adams concluded. Full text of the bill is available HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/house-republicans-introduce-bill-repeal-motor-voter-law-over-fraud-fears,House Republicans introduce bill to repeal 'motor voter' law over fraud fears,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/letter-trump-house-republicans-call-special-counsel-investigate-election,"In letter to Trump, House Republicans call for special counsel to investigate election",2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-stands-for-election-integrity,WILSON STANDS FOR ELECTION INTEGRITY,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On December 10, Congressman Joe Wilson issued the following statement on joining over 100 House Republicans in filing an amicus brief in support of the case brought by the State of Texas to address election irregularities: ""People across the United States are concerned about the mishandling of their votes and irregularities in the 2020 federal election. I share this concern which is why I joined my colleagues, led by Congressman Mike Johnson, in filing an amicus brief that expresses concern and the belief that these issues should be addressed by the Court. ""I am grateful that South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has also joined the 16 other state attorneys general in filing an amicus brief supporting the State of Texas as they pursue their right to truth. The constitutional provisions that election laws are the sole jurisdiction of state legislators must be maintained and not be changed by judicial action."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=47058F14-BC20-4851-9BCB-57D89A523530,House of Representatives Passes Legislation to Honor Joseph Rainey,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC-Today the House of Representatives passed H.Res.1253 honoring former Congressman Joseph H. Rainey.Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) co-sponsored H. Res.1253 with Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, and Majority Whip Clyburn. This legislation will name room H-150 in the US Capitol after JosephRainey,the first African American Congressman and Georgetown native, to honor the 150th Anniversary of his swearing in. ""It is a privilege to co-sponsor this bill that honors a true American patriot like Mr. Rainey. All South Carolinians can look up to Joseph Rainey as a trailblazer who fought for opportunity for all, and his legacy should be honored,""said Congressman Tom Rice. Background: Joseph Rainey was born into slavery in Georgetown, South Carolina in 1832. His father was a barber and used his earnings to buy freedom for himself and his family, including Joseph. Later, during the Civil War, Joseph was drafted by the Confederacy, but he escaped to Bermuda with his wife and started a business. In 1866 he returned to Georgetown, South Carolina where he became the county's Republican Party Chairman. Just a few years later in 1870, he was elected to Congress where he served until 1879 making him the longest serving African American Member of Congress in the nineteenth century. Read the full Resolutionhere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7CD39153-B00E-437F-BFB7-064D7359ACA6,Graham on Israel and Morocco Establishing Closer Economic and Political Relationship,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement on news that Israel and Morocco will establish a closer relationship. Congratulations to the Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu and Moroccan Prime Minister Saad-Eddine El Othmani on this historic achievement. The Trump administration, through the Abraham Accords, has truly changed the landscape of the Middle East in a way that was unimaginable just four years ago. This agreement is yet another major addition to the list of nations who have embraced the Abraham Accords. Morocco is a great ally of the United States and has a long history of embracing tolerance. This agreement will allow for greater economic development and integration as well as further regional stability and security. It is a win-win-win for Israel, Morocco, and the United States. To President Trump and his team, particularly Jared Kushner and Avi Berkowitz, congratulations on a job well done. ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-perlmutter-secure-permanent-authorization-of-ombudsman-for-energy,"WILSON, PERLMUTTER SECURE PERMANENT AUTHORIZATION OF OMBUDSMAN FOR ENERGY EMPLOYEES OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESS COMPENSATION PROGRAM",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On December 8, the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with permanent authorization of the Office of the Ombudsman for the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program (EEOICP). Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) and Congressman Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) worked through the entire bill process to ensure this critical legislation made it to the President's desk. ""I am grateful that this year's NDAA included permanent authorization of the Office of the Ombudsman for the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program. Passage of this provision will now allow thousands of nuclear workers, including those who have served at the Savannah River Site, to navigate the difficult process of receiving these benefits,"" said Congressman Wilson. ""This has been a bipartisan effort with me and Congressman Ed Perlmutter. By passing this bill, Congress has shown appreciation for those who have dedicated their lives to our national security."" ""The Office of the Ombudsman serves as a critical resource and advocate for those who risked their lives to protect our nation,"" said Congressman Perlmutter. ""By making this office permanent we can better ensure these patriots receive the compensation and care they need and deserve as they deal with the health consequences and other side effects related to their service to our country."" BACKGROUND During the Cold War, approximately 600,000 workers were employed at U.S. weapons program facilities throughout the country. As a result of their work for the U.S. government, some atomic weapons workers developed cancers and other diseases. In 2000, Congress acted to provide healthcare and benefits for former nuclear weapons workers by passing the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA). The Department of Labor's Office of the Ombudsman helps former nuclear weapons workers navigate the complex claims process under the EEOICPA. Under previous law, the Ombudsman's office sunset in October 2020. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=3B76AD50-906A-4510-9876-6B5305CC5FDB,Rep Rice Introduces Bipartisan E-QUIP Act,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC -Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) and Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL) introduced theEnergy Efficient Qualified Improvement Property (E-QUIP) Acttoday. The E-QUIP Act is an important step to further simplifying the tax code for real estate owners and incentivizing investment in more efficient energy technology. E-QUIP installations will lead to lower energy costs and reduced greenhouse gas emissions while also spurring construction, design, and maintenance jobs. This will help our country compete, drive down energy prices, and remove barriers so that our country can reach its full energy potential. Most importantly, it will be a positive change that will benefit thousands of South Carolinians. I am grateful to Congressman Brad Schneider for working with me on this important, bipartisan legislation,""saidCongressman Tom Rice. Background: The E-QUIP Act creates a new tax code category applying to improvements in commercial buildings and multifamily buildings. It would streamline the existing cost recovery patchwork by offering a uniform, straight-line 10-year cost recovery period for ""high performance"" building systems and equipment.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7025584E-6611-4852-BFA0-9718DBF5F0C8,Graham Announces $121 Million In Rural Broadband Funding For South Carolina,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today announced that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will award $121 million in federal funding to expand rural broadband in South Carolina. The funding will serve 108,833 unserved homes and businesses across the state. In August, Graham introduced the Governors' Broadband Development Fund with Senators Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) and Mark Warner (D-Virginia) to support the deployment of advanced technologies in areas where there is the greatest need. According to the FCC, about 21 million Americans do not have access to 25/3 mbps internet, which is the FCC's standard for high-speed broadband. Of that 21 million, 16 million live in rural areas, while 5 million live in urban areas. This is very good news for South Carolina, said Graham. While it doesn't solve the problem completely, it is another positive step in the right direction. There are places in South Carolina you might as well be on the moon when it comes to getting high-speed internet service. All South Carolinians should be able to utilize the educational, telehealth, and business benefits of accessible and affordable broadband. This funding is critical for expanding broadband access in South Carolina and drastically improves access in rural and underserved areas. I'm thankful to the Trump administration for prioritizing this critical expansion when we need it the most. Funding will be provided to CCO Holdings, Horry Telephone Cooperative, NRTC Phase I RDOF Consortium, Palmetto Telephone Communications, Rural Electric Cooperative Consortium, Sandhill Telephone Cooperative, Space Exploration Technologies Corp, WC Fiber, and Windstream Services to provide additional broadband to South Carolina customers who currently lack access to broadband. #####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/passed-scotts-bipartisan-bill-to-address-challenges-posed-by-food-allergies/,PASSED: Scott’s Bipartisan Bill to Address Challenges Posed by Food Allergies,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the United State Senate passed the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act, a bill introduced by U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Chris Murphy (D-CT). This bill addresses the growing challenges posed by food allergies, which affect tens of millions of Americans. The bill modernizes our nation’s labeling laws by codifying sesame as a major food allergen and calls for a comprehensive report on food allergies in the United States that will assist future governmental and private-sector efforts to monitor, study, and combat these allergies. Approximately 1.5 million Americans are allergic to sesame. “With approximately 32 million Americans living with food allergies, it’s important for us to take targeted steps to address the growing challenges posed by food allergies and to protect those who are vulnerable,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Nationwide, caring for children with food allergies costs an average of $25 billion annually, and can pose extreme hardships on low – and middle –income families. I’m glad that this bipartisan legislation passed the Senate and hope that we can continue to make progress for Americans affected by this issue.” “For years, parents in Connecticut have told me about the challenges associated with sesame allergies—about how dangerous it is for them or their children to go to a grocery store or eat in the school cafeteria and not know if their food might hurt them. They helped me see it was inexcusable that federal law didn’t require sesame labeling on food products, like it does for other allergens. That is why I was proud to work across the aisle with Republican Senator Tim Scott to draft legislation to finally require sesame labeling, and I’m excited to have it pass the Senate today. I look forward to this legislation passing in the House and heading to the president’s desk,” said Murphy. The FASTER Act would: Codify sesame as a major food allergen under the FD&C Act, effective for products introduced into interstate commerce on or after January 1, 2023; and Direct HHS, within two years of enactment, to submit a report to Congress on opportunities and challenges related to food allergy prevention, risk reduction, cures, data collection, and diagnostic and therapeutic development. The report would also discuss a potential framework for modifying the federal list of major food allergens in the future. The bill was cosponsored by Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI). A one-pager on the legislation can be found HERE. The full version of the bill text can be accessed HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/press-releases/duncan-responds-house-passage-ndaa-0,Duncan Responds to House Passage of NDAA,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): The National Defense Authorization Act has long been a bipartisan effort for Congress to fund our troops and strengthen our national security. However, unfortunately in recent years House Democrats have abandoned that long-standing process. The Left has become more interested in using critical, bipartisan provisions in the NDAA as leverage to pass non-related and radical policy priorities as part of the bill. For example, the Corporate Transparency Act provision included in the bill would burden small businesses with twenty or fewer fulltime employees with reporting additional paperwork on ownership changes to the Department of Treasury, and make it a federal crime if they fail to do so. Not only is this completely unrelated to military policy, but it also radically threatens small businesses' privacy protections. I am also extremely disappointed that language on protecting the Marine Corps Recruit Depot at Parris Island was not included in this year's NDAA. While this would have been an appropriate, military-related provision, Democrats didn't even give it the time of day. South Carolinians take great pride in Parris Island and its long history of training our country's brave Marines, and I will continue fighting to protect its future and ensure its storied legacy lives on. The bottom line is this year's NDAA was a flawed process and flawed policy. Our troops deserve better than this. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/press-releases/sc-state-senator-prefiles-legislation-builds-congressman-duncans-justice-act,SC State Senator Prefiles Legislation that Builds on Congressman Duncan's JUSTICE Act,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"SHEALY PREFILES LEGISLATION TO STOP SICKENING PRACTICE OF POSSESSING CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATIVE DOLLS Builds on Congressman Duncan's JUSTICE Act Filed in Congress Washington, D.C. - United States Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03) and South Carolina State Senator Katrina Shealy (District 23) work on legislation to protect children and ban child-like sex dolls on the federal and state levels: Senator Katrina Shealy (R-Lexington) plans to introduce new legislation during the State Senate prefile period, on December 9, that adds the practice of buying, selling or possession of figures or robots that resemble a child's likeness also known as child-like sex dolls, to the state offense for obscenity. Senator Shealy, the Chairman of the Senate Family & Veterans' Services Committee, says she planned to file the legislation when she learned of an alarming trend nationwide of the trafficking of child-like dolls, and that many states have not addressed legislation to expressly prohibit the figures intended for use in sexual acts. I have been leading the charge on the federal level with the JUSTICE Act to ban child-like sex dolls, said Congressman Jeff Duncan. Banning these dolls is simply commonsense, and it would solve a deeply disturbing, real world problem being perpetuated by pedophiles and predators. I applaud Senator Shealy for working to do the same in the South Carolina General Assembly. The practice of exploiting children is sickening and we are going to make it crystal clear that this behavior is not welcome in South Carolina, Senator Katrina Shealy says. My hope would be that legislation to address such abhorrent acts would not be needed here, but the disturbing trend has impacted other states; it was time to take a second look at our laws and ensure that children are protected in all areas of predatory acts. Background: Child-like sex dolls are manufactured around the globe, many coming from China, and imported into the United States by predators and pedophiles. They are used by these sick individuals as practice, oftentimes with a real child's likeness depicted on the doll. These dolls have been banned in Great Britain and Australia, and states in the U.S. are beginning to follow suit including bans in Florida and Tennessee. Federal Legislation The Jurists United to Stop Trafficking Imitation Child Exploitation (JUSTICE) Act, sponsored by Congressman Jeff Duncan, is a bipartisan bill in the United States House of Representatives which would add child-like sex dolls to the already legally defined list of banned obscenities that cannot be imported into the United States or transported across state lines.The penalty for violation under that section of law includes up to five years in prison per offense. Similar legislation passed the House of Representatives unanimously in the 115th Congress. Groups supporting this legislation include the Stop Abuse Campaign and the Child Rescue Coalition. Read H.R. 4150HERE. View the Congressman's recent remarks on the JUSTICE ActHERE. View the Congressman's recent joint op-ed with Andrew Willis, founder of the Stop Abuse Campaign,HERE. State Legislation The new legislation, sponsored by Senator Katrina Shealy, would define a figurine' as a figure, mannequin, or robot created in a child's likeness that is anatomically correct, with features of, or with features that resemble those of, a minor, and that are intended for use in sexual acts. The legislation further creates a charge for a person knowingly disseminating obscenity if he: buys, sells, delivers, rents, distributes, or otherwise provides any figurine for the representation, description, or use of the obscene. The penalty for the violation under the law, is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned not more than five years or fined not more than ten thousand dollars, or both. Read the Introduced Legislation HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-statement-on-house-passage-of-ndaa,WILSON STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF NDAA,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On December 8, Congressman Joe Wilson, Senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement on the House passage of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Report: ""This year's NDAA is a promise that we stand with our nation's military. As an NDAA Committee Conferee, it has been rewarding to see the hard work of Congress finalized in this legislation that advances peace through strength. Enactment of this bill would be the 60th consecutive fiscal year that the NDAA has passed, exhibiting the truly bipartisan nature of the process. ""Our military families are the strong foundation of our nation's military, which is why I am focused on ensuring servicemembers and their families continue to receive benefits they deserve. This NDAA contains several policy and funding initiatives that reaffirm our commitment to America's troops and their families. I am thankful this NDAA provides our servicemembers childcare along with a three percent pay increase, which represents the first time in a decade that U.S. troops will consecutively receive salary boosts of at least three percent. ""In response to the pandemic, this year's NDAA focuses on the health and safety of our servicemembers by ensuring the Defense Department has the diagnostic equipment, testing capabilities, and personal protective equipment needed to keep our men and women in uniform healthy and safe. ""I am grateful this year's NDAA included five bills that I have introduced or led this Congress: the Nuclear Workers Ombudsman Extension Act, the United States-Israel Military Capability Act, the Body Armor for Females Modernization Act, the Small Manufacturer Cybersecurity Enhancement Act, and the DOD Portfolio Management Accountability Act. ""This bill also provides full funding authorization for the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative at USC-Aiken, pit production, and Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) at the Savannah River Site, all of which I have worked to include through the committee and conference process. ""As a veteran and father of four sons who have served in the military overseas, I appreciate these victories for our military and am committed to continuing to work for our servicemembers and their families. I am thankful to have worked with my colleagues to advance this important, bipartisan legislation."" HIGHLIGHTS OF FY21 NDAA Savannah River Site (SRS) Full funding authorization for PILT for counties in which SRS is located Full funding authorization for the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC) located at the University of South Carolina - Aiken Full funding authorization for pit production at SRS to modernize our nuclear triad Includes the Nuclear Workers Ombudsman Extension Act Congressman Joe Wilson is the co-lead with Congressman Ed Perlmutter Extends indefinitely the Office of the Ombudsman for the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Act (EEOICPA) program in order to ensure covered individuals are able to receive compensation and navigate the process Support for Military Families Authorizes a 3.0% increase in basic pay for service members The first time in a decade that troops will consecutively receive salary boosts of at least three percent Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to provide childcare to each child of a member of the Armed Forces or civilian employee of the Department of Defense (DoD) while that member or employee works on rotating shifts at a military installation Military Aircraft in South Carolina Supports the budget request for the AH-64 Apache and UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters McEntire Joint National Guard Base supports flight for Apache and Blackhawk helicopters Provides additional funding for 5 CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopters McEntire Joint National Guard Base supports flight for Chinook helicopters Supports the budget request and service's Unfunded Priorities Lists by authorizing 93 F35 aircraft for the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps Marine Corps Air Station in Beaufort supports flight for F-35 aircraft Solidarity with Israeli Alliance Includes the United States-Israel Military Capability Act Sponsored by Congressman Joe Wilson Allows the creation of a Defense Department U.S.-Israel working group on operations and technology issues to facilitate greater cooperation between the United States and Israeli companies on defense acquisition and innovation Military Readiness Includes the Body Armor for Females Modernization Act Sponsored by Congressman Joe Wilson Expedites the procurement and fielding of new generation equipment that better protects our servicewomen Fort Jackson trains more than 60% of all women entering the Army each year Increases Hazardous Duty Pay owed to troops from $250 to $275 per month Includes the Guard and Reserve Hazard Duty Pay Equity Act Congressman Joe Wilson co-led a letter to conferees urging its inclusion with sponsor Congressman Andy Kim Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to standardize payment of hazardous duty incentive pay for members of the Guard and Reserve Components of the Armed Forces Military Housing Reforms Builds on the progress from last year to include sweeping reforms in response to concerns about the management, oversight, and condition of military family housing Ensures the Department and private housing partners are responsive to resident concerns Authorizes an additional $60 million for oversight and improvement of the Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI) program and to continue addressing environmental and maintenance issues in government-owned family housing Overdue improvements include improved identification and remediation of severe environmental hazards, support for families displaced for mold and other hazards, and liaisons for families with special needs children Cybersecurity Protections Establishes a National Cyber Director within the Executive Office of the President to serve as the President's chief advisor on cyber matters and lead coordinator for Executive Branch departments and agencies' cyber issues Adopts 17 Cyber Solarium Commission recommendations that strengthen the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and empowers the government to better protect against cyber-attack Includes the Small Manufacturer Cybersecurity Enhancement Act Congressman Joe Wilson is the co-lead with Congressman Jimmy Panetta Provides much-needed assistance to small defense manufacturers with cyber compliance and enhances cybersecurity throughout our defense supply chain by expanding DoD's cyber initiatives with MEP Centers DoD Accountability and Oversight Includes the DoD Portfolio Management Accountability Act Congressman Joe Wilson is the co-lead with Congressman Dusty Johnson and Congressman Filemon Vela Requires the Department of Defense to use portfolio management best practices to improve weapon system investments This approach would reduce government waste and inefficiency by significantly reducing duplicative efforts within DoD, saving our taxpayer dollars, and funding other crucial objectives to support our national security",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-joins-bipartisan-bicameral-group-of-lawmakers-in-calling-for-the-permanent-expansion-of-telehealth-coverage/,"Scott Joins Bipartisan, Bicameral Group of Lawmakers in Calling for the Permanent Expansion of Telehealth Coverage",2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) joined a bipartisan group of 49 lawmakers in urging Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) to make the expanded use of telehealth services during the COVID-19 permanent. Provisions in the CONNECT for Health Act that have allowed Medicare beneficiaries to access the same healthcare in their homes during the pandemic will be expiring once the pandemic has been contained. “Telehealth has been a critical tool during the COVID-19 pandemic in ensuring that patients can continue to receive the health care services that they need while minimizing the spread of the virus and keeping health care providers and patients healthy and safe,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter. “We continue to hear from our constituents and health care providers that the uncertainty about the long-term future of Medicare telehealth coverage is a barrier to organizations investing fully in telehealth. Congress needs to act now to better serve patients and health care providers during the pandemic, and to ensure that telehealth remains an option after the pandemic is over.” In their letter, the lawmakers highlight the growing use and benefits of telehealth during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, as patients seek to avoid traveling to hospitals and other providers and instead receive care at home. New data shows that the number of Medicare beneficiaries using telehealth services increased by nearly 13,000 percent in just a month and a half during the pandemic. In addition to Scott, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), John Boozman (R-AR), Angus King (I-ME), Rand Paul (R-KY), Susan Collins (R-ME), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Chris Coons (D-DE), Jon Tester (D-MT), Lamar Alexander (R-TN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Steve Daines (R-MT), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and U.S. Representatives Mike Thompson (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Bill Johnson (R-OH), David Schweikert (R-AZ), David McKinley (R-WV), Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), David N. Cicilline (D-RI), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Michael Guest (R-MS), Brendan F. Boyle (D-PA), Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ), Tom Cole (R-OK), Trent Kelly (R-MS), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Elise M. Stefanik (R-NY), Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ), and Ron Kind (D-WI). The full text of the letter is available HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-calls-to-designate-iranian-backed-militia-as-terrorist,WILSON CALLS TO DESIGNATE IRANIAN-BACKED MILITIA AS TERRORIST ORGANIZATION,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On December 3, Congressman Joe Wilson, Ranking Member of the Middle East, North Africa, and International Terrorism Subcommittee of the Hosue Foreign Affairs Committee and Chairman of the Republican Study Committee's (RSC) Foreign Affairs and National Security Task Force introduced the Badr Organization Designation Act of 2020 to designate the Badr Organization in Iraq, an Iranian-backed militia, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. ""Badr is Iran's oldest proxy in Iraq and has the blood of Americans, Iraqis, Syrians, and Lebanese on its hands. Not only was it commanded and funded by Qassem Soleimani, the terrorist leader of Iran's revolutionary guard who President Trump heroically eliminated from the battlefield earlier this year, it also spearheaded and led the terrorist attack on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad almost one full year ago,"" said Congressman Wilson. ""Badr works directly with Lebanese Hezbollah, Iraqi Kataib Hezbollah, AAH, and many other designated terrorist organizations to push forward its campaign of terror. Unfortunately, Badr has still not been designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. It is absolutely necessary if we are to truly have maximum pressure on Iran that Badr is designated as a terrorist organization. This legislation would do just that and I urge the State Department to designate Badr before the one-year anniversary of the attack."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=16F91433-D529-4E42-B41A-5199E3EAC34A,"Reps Rice, DeGette, Reed, and Butterfield Introduce the PREVENT DIABETES Act",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Today Representatives Tom Rice (R-SC), Diana DeGette (D-CO), Tom Reed (R-NY), and G.K. Butterfield (D-CA) introduced The Promoting Responsible and Effective Virtual Experiences through Novel Technology to Deliver Improved Access and Better Engagement with Tested and Evidence-Based Strategies (PREVENT DIABETES) Act. Today I introduced the PREVENT DIABETES Act. Approximately 500,000 South Carolinians have diabetes. This legislation will expand virtual suppliers in the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) to those in rural, minority, or medically underserved communities to help address disparities and improve lives. My goal is to create policies that give South Carolinians and all Americans access to high quality, efficient health care services under Medicare. MDPP expansion will help empower residents and families to make healthier choices, so we can prosper as a community,saidCongressman Tom Rice. Nearly one-third of all adults in this country have either diabetes or prediabetes,saidCongressman DeGette, who serves as co-chair of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus. Finding ways to prevent more Americans from developing this deadly disease must remain one of our top priorities. This legislation will help us expand access to important resources and make them more available to more Americans including our seniors, and those living in more rural areas, who may otherwise be unable to utilize them. By dramatically expanding virtual access to the Diabetes Prevention Program, a critical Medicare service, we will ensure more Americans can utilize the informational resources they need to make healthy decisions. As Co-Chair of the Diabetes Caucus, we know how important it is to reduce the incidence of diabetes in the United States and support those Americans battling the disease,saidCongressman Tom Reed, who serves as co-chair of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus. Over 3.5 million North Carolinians have prediabetes and this number continues to grow. We know that diabetes disproportionately affects minority communities, especially those living in rural and underserved areas. It is critical to support these vulnerable communities by leveraging every tool at our disposal and providing education and information on healthy choices that will help prevent the development of diabetes. Increasing virtual access to the Diabetes Prevention Program will make it easier for people to access the vital information and care they need, saidCongressman G.K. Butterfield. Background: According to the CDC, 13% of American adults have diabetes, including 26.8% of those aged 65 or older. Diabetes prevalence varies substantially by race/ethnicity, affecting 16.4% of Black adults, 14.9% of Asian adults, and 14.7% of Hispanic adults, versus 11.9% of White adults. Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in South Carolina. Inclusion of virtual suppliers in MDPP could help to address these disparities and improve outcomes for older Americans across the board. The Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program expanded model is a structured intervention with the goal of preventing type 2 diabetes in individuals with an indication of pre-diabetes.The primary goal of the expanded model is at least 5 percent weight loss by participants. The study found that lifestyle changes resulting in modest weight loss sharply reduced the development of type 2 diabetes in people at high risk for the disease. This legislation is supported by American College of Preventive Medicine (ACPM), American Diabetes Association (ADA), American Medical Association (AMA), Association of Diabetes Care+ Education Specialists (ADCES), Black Women's Health Imperative (BWHI), Connected Health Initiative, Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition (DPAC), Endocrine Society, National Kidney Foundation, Noom, Novo Nordisk, Omada Health, Teladoc Health, and YMCA of USA.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/bipartisan-group-aims-to-launch-new-generation-of-main-street-entrepreneurs/,Bipartisan group aims to launch new generation of Main Street entrepreneurs,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Sens. Scott, Coons, Reps. Crow, Balderson introduce bill to start fellowship for aspiring entrepreneurs, create 320 new businesses annually WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Representatives Jason Crow (D-Colo.) and Troy Balderson (R-Ohio) introduced the Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps Act to spur new business and job creation in underserved communities by starting a competitive fellowship for entrepreneurs. With a five-year investment of $368 million, the bill will identify talented entrepreneurs through a national competition and directly support the creation of more than 320 new businesses each year. During this crisis, small businesses are struggling to return to pre-pandemic levels, with hundreds of thousands of businesses permanently closed. Even before the public health crisis, entrepreneurs faced substantial barriers to entry. The majority of would-be entrepreneurs have limited access to capital; and this problem is worse for minorities – who are twice as likely to be denied loans, more likely to receive lower loan amounts when they do receive loans, and pay higher interest rates than their white peers. These barriers to entry are also stark in low-income areas, where there are proportionally fewer self-employed workers and small businesses. “As a former business owner and entrepreneur, I understand the challenges that come with starting a business,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, and it’s important that we continue to spur economic development. I created my Opportunity Agenda to help create hope in underserved communities, and the Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps Act is a great avenue to help encourage small business creation in those communities. I look forward to my Senate colleagues supporting this legislation.” “Creating opportunities for business growth in a post-COVID-19 economy will be necessary to regain the 10 million jobs still missing due to the pandemic,” Senator Coons said. “New businesses account for nearly a third of total job creation each year. We must ensure that entrepreneurs can act on their innovative ideas in the places that need them the most. We need a range of bold new approaches to rebuild Main Street America in distressed communities, and the Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps should be part of this effort.” “As our country works to rebuild from the pandemic, we need to make sure we are supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs. These men and women have the ingenuity, resourcefulness, and grit to make sure we are rebuilding and revitalizing our communities during this critical time,” said Representative Crow. “I’m proud to join with Senators Coons and Scott as well as my colleague Representative Balderson to support these entrepreneurs and make sure we continue to foster growth in our hardest hit communities.” “It’s critical now more than ever our country identifies and uplifts the next generation of entrepreneurs—including those in my home state of Ohio,” said Representative Balderson. “The skills and talent these individuals bring to the table will help fuel America’s economic recovery. We just need to ensure they have the right resources at their disposal.” The United States has national fellowships to attract the next generation of talent to public schools, international development work, and public service. Now, with nearly 75% of small businesses experiencing a negative impact from COVID-19, the Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps Act seeks to invest in a new wave of talent to rebuild Main Street. The Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps Act will: Create a competitive fellowship program. A selection committee of 12 industry experts will review applications and select 320 entrepreneur fellows annually, from diverse backgrounds, to start both traditional and high growth-potential businesses in distressed, low-income census tract areas. The program will also set forth a framework to expand the number of fellows selected annually for greater impact. Provide healthcare, living expenses, and student loan support. Fellows will receive a $120,000 two-year stipend for living and basic startup expenses, health care, and interest-free federal student loan deferral for two years. Provide mentorship and networking opportunities. Fellows will receive immersive training, be matched with a local business mentor, and access support from an advisory board of CEOs and venture capitalists. Partner with the Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) Small Business Development program. This SBA program currently helps socially and economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs gain access to government contracting. Through this program, fellows will be provided a fast track to apply for 8(a) certification, and fellows with 8(a) eligible businesses will be matched with mentors via the 8(a) Mentor Protégé program. Provide access to capital. Fellows will connect with investors and SBA-backed lenders and receive fast-track access to credit. A $30 million fund will encourage equity investment in corps members’ businesses. Be available to transitioning business owners, new entrepreneurs, and previous business owners who have lost their business due to the public health crisis, but currently lack the resources or capital to start another venture. A full summary of the bill is available HERE. This legislation is supported by the Center for American Entrepreneurship, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber, the SCORE Foundation, Prosperity Now, Young Invincibles, the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship, Small Business for America’s Future, the Small Business Majority, BUILD.org, NextGen Chamber of Commerce, Engine, and the Economic Innovation Group. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/press-releases/duncan-congratulates-rodgers-being-selected-serve-ranking-member-energy-and,Duncan Congratulates Rodgers on Being Selected by Republican Steering Committee to Serve as Ranking Member of Energy and Commerce,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03) released the following statement after the Republican Steering Committee selected Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers to serve as Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee for the 117th Congress: Congratulations to my good friend and colleague, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, on being selected by the Republican Steering Committee to serve as Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee for the 117th Congress. Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers has been a long-time leader on a variety of issues that have come before our committee, including fighting for American energy dominance, preserving our environment and the outdoors, advocating for affordable health care, and protecting American consumers. I have had the honor of serving on the Energy and Commerce Committee since 2017, and I've had the opportunity to work closely with Cathy on the Subcommittees on Energy and Environment and Climate Change. Cathy will be the first female Ranking Member in the history of this committee, and I applaud her on this great accomplishment. I look forward to continuing our committee work next Congress and congratulate the Congresswoman again on her new leadership role. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6FCC2216-18A5-454B-86AE-9E2F60E92DA2,Rep Rice Hosts Telephone Town Hall,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC-Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) is hosting a telephone town hall on Monday, December 7th to give a legislative update and answer questions. We will also discuss and answer Covid-19 questions. Dr. Danielle Scheurer, the Chief Quality Officer and Professor of Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston and member of the SC Vaccine Committee, will be joining us on the call. I hope you can join us! You can register online or dial in on Monday! To register online, visit:https://rice.house.gov/townhall December 7, 2020 5:30 PM Dial: 866-295-1745",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-launches-nationwide-virtual-opportunity-zones-tour/,Scott Launches Nationwide Virtual Opportunity Zones Tour,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the statement below following the launch of his nationwide Virtual Opportunity Zone Tour. “While the pandemic is still ongoing, the work Opportunity Zones are doing to uplift our most devastated communities hasn’t stopped. I am so excited to launch my nationwide Virtual Opportunity Zone Tour in my home state of South Carolina,”said Senator Tim Scott. “The success of the more than 1,500 estimated new jobs of the Hampton County Agriculture and Technology Campus (ATC) will be a blueprint for Opportunity Zones across the country to model. I’m looking forward to sharing the stories of the everyday Americans who have been given a chance at the American Dream as I continue to make stops across the country in the weeks and months to come.” Read Senator Scott’s exclusive interview about the launch with Yahoo Finance here. Created by a provision included by Senator Scott in the 2017 tax reform package, Opportunity Zones are the first major new effort to help our nation’s most distressed communities in decades. More than $75 billion in private sector investment has been committed to Opportunity Zones around the country. For more information on Opportunity Zones, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E2DBDB7F-6416-4215-A450-82EC00E4928E,Graham Statement on AG Barr Appointing Durham as Special Counsel,2020-12-01,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after Attorney General William Barr notified the committee that he had appointed U.S. Attorney John Durham with the powers and authority of a special counsel. I completely concur with Attorney General Barr's decision to appoint Mr. Durham as special counsel regarding matters related to the Department of Justice and FBI's conduct in the Crossfire Hurricane investigation. Based on hearings we held in the Senate Judiciary Committee, it is obvious the system failed and the FISA Court's rebuke of the Department of Justice and FBI was more than warranted. To restore credibility to the Department of Justice and FBI after this disgraceful episode, people have to be held accountable either through criminal prosecution or administrative action. I have complete confidence that Mr. Durham is the right man at the right time to be appointed special counsel. I hope his work product will help restore confidence in the Department of Justice and FBI after the debacle called Crossfire Hurricane. I hope my Democrat colleagues will show Special Counsel Durham the same respect they showed Special Counsel Mueller. This important investigation must be allowed to proceed free from political interference. The American people deserve a full accounting of this wrongdoing. Read Attorney General Barr's letter to Chairman GrahamHERE. Read Attorney General Barr's order appointing U.S. Attorney Durham as special counselHERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-on-court-decision-to-block-removal-of-savannah-bluff-lock-and-dam,WILSON ON COURT DECISION TO BLOCK REMOVAL OF SAVANNAH BLUFF LOCK AND DAM,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On November 23, the United States District Court for South Carolina ordered in favor of the State of South Carolina in the case against the Savannah District Army Corps of Engineers regarding their proposed plan to tear down the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam and replace it with a fixed rock weir. This selected plan, Alternative 2-6d, would have been detrimental to the North Augusta Community, irreversibly lowering the water levels in a manner that would negatively impact recreation, economic development, and industries up and down the river. ""It is great to see that the Army Corps is now permanently enjoined from entering into any plan that would not ‘maintain the pool' that was in existence on the date of enactment of the 2016 'Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act.' I and my colleagues in Congress have continued to fight against the Corps' actions, maintaining that the Corps has acted against the clear intent of the language of the WIIN Act, requiring that the pool be maintained at 114.5 feet,"" said Congressman Wilson. ""I appreciate the tireless work of Governor Henry McMaster, Attorney General Alan Wilson, Senators Lindsey Graham, Tim Scott, David Perdue, and Kelly Loeffler, Congressman Rick Allen, North Augusta Mayor Bob Pettit, S.C. Representative Bill Hixon, Senator Tom Young, and many other state and local officials who have been working together diligently on this issue for many years."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://vantaylor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2708,"Reps. Van Taylor, Jimmy Panetta Urge NPRC to Resume Processing Military Personnel Records",2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,SC,Van Taylor,T000479,vantaylor.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, 233 Members of Congress, led by Congressman Van Taylor, sent a letter urging the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) to implement new policies so that they may resume processing military personnel, health, and medical records requests and address the growing backlog of requests due to the closure of the facility amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. share: f t WASHINGTON - Today, 233 Members of Congress sent a letter urging the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) to implement new policies so that they may resume processing military personnel, health, and medical records requests and address the growing backlog of requests due to the closure of the facility amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The letter also underscores all Agency policy changes should continue to consider the health and safety of NPRC's workforce. Led by Congressman Van Taylor (R-TX-03) after hearing from veterans in his district, and Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20), the letter asks NPRC Director Scott Levins to implement new policies and procedures that can both protect the NPRC's workforce and ensure our nation's veterans are getting the records they need and deserve in a timely fashion. The letter is signed by 233 Members of Congress including Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs David Roe. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, NPRC reduced on site operations on March 23, 2020, only processing emergency requests and remains in the current status with no definitive timeline for addressing the backlog or improving processing times. Personnel records are needed for veterans, military, civil service retirees, and their dependents to qualify for a range of benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. Author of the letter, Congressman Van Taylor said, ""The COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant challenges for every facet of life, however, just as families and businesses across the country have worked to overcome these challenges, our federal agencies must adapt to continue serving the American people. He continued, The failure of NPRC to process military personal records has impacted our veterans and their families, who require these records to qualify for a range of benefits. Our Veterans have made countless sacrifices and we owe it to them to process these important requests in a timely manner. In dealing with this pandemic, we've learned that we must adapt, adjust, and continue to go forward. The NPRC must do the same to ensure that our servicemembers receive the proper support they deserve when it comes to obtaining their personnel records, said Congressman Panetta. Now more than ever, our federal government needs to work for the people of this nation. We'll continue to work with the NPRC so that it too continues to serve those who serve our nation.As a veteran, Congressman Van Taylor knows how critical timely access to NPRC records is to the veterans in Texas's 3rd Congressional District and across the country; he has been a central leader on this issue. I thank Van for highlighting this important problem, and look forward to working with our colleagues in Congress to ensure that the NPRC has the funding and resources needed to modernize their records system and adequately address the backlog while prioritizing staff safety,"" said Leader McCarthy. Thousands of veterans and their families have faced hardships over the last nine months, but getting the benefits they have earned should not be one of them said Ranking Member Roe. It is imperative that the National Personnel Records Center continues to carry out their important work on behalf of the men and women they serve to ensure our heroes receive their records in a timely fashion. I am proud to join my friends and colleagues in advocating for a safe return to normal operations and a plan to address the backlog in requests as soon as possible. The complete text of the letter can be viewed here. Led by Republican Congressman Van Taylor (TX-03) and Democrat Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-20), the letter was signed by 233 Members of Congress, 122 Democrats and 111 Republicans, including Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23),House Committee on Veterans Affairs Ranking Member David P. Roe (TN-01), Gwen Moore (WI-03), Jim Hagedorn (MN-01), Barbara Lee (CA-09), Andy Kim (NJ-03), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Ted Budd (NC-13), Ben McAdams (UT-04), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA-03), Roger Williams (TX-25), Max Rose (NY-11), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Filemon Vela (TX-34), Susan Wild (PA-07), Darren Soto (FL-09), Mike Thompson (CA-05), Greg Gianforte (MT-AL), Robert E. Latta (OH-05), Adam Smith (WA-09), Mark E. Green, M.D. (TN-07), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Elise M. Stefanik (NY-21), TJ Cox (CA-21), Denver Riggleman (VA-05), Brian Mast (FL-18), Joe Courtney (CT-02), John Garamendi (CA-03), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), Randy K. Weber (TX-14), W. Gregory Steube (FL-17), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Virginia Foxx (NC-05), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Thomas P. Tiffany (WI-07), Chip Roy (TX-21), Glenn 'GT' Thompson (PA-15), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Gregory F. Murphy, M.D. (NC-03), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01),Richard E. Neal (MA-01), Steve Womack (AR-03), Ann McLane Kuster (NH-02), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Mark Walker (NC-06), Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02), Juan Vargas (CA-51), Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Steven M. Palazzo (MS-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Salud O. Carbajal (CA-24), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Ed Case (HI-01), Cindy Axne (IA-03), Al Lawson (FL-05), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Wm. Lacy Clay (MO-01), Michael Waltz (FL-06), Trent Kelly (MS-01), Jim Banks (IN-03), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02), Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01), Steve Chabot (OH-01), Collin C. Peterson (MN-07), David B. McKinley, P.E. (WV-01), David P. Joyce (OH-14), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Bobby L. Rush (IL-01), Christopher H. Smith (NJ-04),Darin LaHood (IL-09), Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04), Brian Higgins (NY-26), Ann Kirkpatrick (AZ-02), David Rouzer (NC-07), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Rick Crawford (AR-01), Tom Cole (OK-04), Michael T. McCaul (TX-10), Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon (PR-AL), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Tim Ryan (OH-13), Cheri Bustos (IL-17), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), John Katko (NY-24), Rob Wittman (VA-01), Kelly Armstrong (ND-AL),Bill Posey (FL-08), Dina Titus (NV-01), Paul Cook (CA-08), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Linda T. Snchez (CA-38), Matt Gaetz (FL-01), Joe Wilson (SC-02), Joseph D. Morelle (NY-25), Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Jody Hice (GA-10), Peter A. DeFazio (OR-04), Jerry McNerney (CA-09), Tim Walberg (MI-07), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Sharice L. Davids (KS-03), Pete Stauber (MN-08),Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Haley M. Stevens (MI-11), Scott H. Peters (CA-52), Andr Carson (IN-07), French Hill (AR-02), Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), David C. Cicilline (RI-01), Ed Perlmutter (CO-07), Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (TX-26), Donald J. Bacon (NE-02), H. Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Bill Flores (TX-17), Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), Tom Malinowski (NJ-07), James Comer (KY-01), Mike Johnson (LA-04), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Tom McClintock (CA-04), Adam Kinzinger (IL-), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Will Hurd (TX-23), Rick W. Allen (GA-12), Dean Phillips (MN-03), Val Demings (FL-10), Kathleen M. Rice (NY-04), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), A. Donald McEachin (VA-04), Ben Cline (VA-22), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Chris Stewart (UT-02), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Anthony Brindisi (NY-22), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Scott Perry (PA-10), Brett Guthrie (KY-02), John Curtis (UT-03), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Debbie Lesko (AZ-08), Colin Allred (TX-32), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Vickie Hartzler (MO-04), Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), Daniel T. Kildee (MI-05), Mike Levin (CA-49), Garrett Graves (LA-06), Tom Rice (SC-07), Michael Guest (MS-03), Abigail D. Spanberger (VA-07), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Jason Crow (CO-06), Conor Lamb (PA-17), Jim Baird (IN-04), Alex X. Mooney (WV-02), Peter Welch (VT-AL), Patrick McHenry (NC-10), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Ral M. Grijalva (AZ-03), Anthony G. Brown (MD-04), Tony Crdenas (CA-29), Mike Bost (IL-12), John Rose (TN-06), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Pete Olson (TX-22), David Trone (MD-06), Ken Buck (CO-04), Neal P. Dunn, M.D. (FL-02), Kurt Schrader (OR-05), John R. Moolenaar (MI-04), Fred Keller (PA-12), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jackie Speier (CA-14), Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11), Susie Lee (NV-03), Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Michael F. Q. San Nicolas (GU-AL), Bill Foster (IL-11), Elaine Luria (VA-02), Elissa Slotkin (MI-08),Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Charlie Crist (FL-13), Jared Golden (ME-02), Nanette Barragn (CA-44), Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01), Josh Harder (CA-10), Dan Bishop (NC-09), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Jennifer Wexton (VA-10), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Antonio Delgado (NY-19), Deb Haaland (NM-01), John B. Larson (CT-01), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Chris Jacobs (NY-27), Jason Smith (MO-08), Kevin Hern (OK-01), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Lois Frankel (FL-21), Lee Zeldin (NY-01), Anna G. Eshoo (CA-18), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (MP-AL), Bradley Byrne (AL-01), Sean Casten (IL-06), A 7th generation Texan, Congressman Van Taylor is a dedicated family man, successful businessman, and decorated Marine Officer. Taylor served Collin County both in the Texas House of Representatives and Texas Senate. Today, Taylor is proud to serve on the House Committee on Financial Services.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-scott-banks-are-not-arbiters-of-social-policy/,Senator Scott: Banks Are Not Arbiters of Social Policy,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"NORTH CHARLESTON, SC – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the statement below following today’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPR) on Fair Access to Banking by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). “There is absolutely no place for discrimination in the financial services industry,” Scott said. “As a country, we continue to feel the unjust impacts of redlining and banks that refused to do business with lawful, creditworthy individuals. Unfortunately, we know exactly what happens when banks attempt to play policymakers. Scott continued, “Banks provide financial services; they are not arbitrators of social policy. They should not punish legal industries like payday lenders or firearms dealers because they disagree politically, nor should they promote credit to politically favored industries. I applaud the OCC for making it clear that banks should make their business decisions based on quantifiable risk-based analysis of customers’ creditworthiness, rather than internal policy decisions about what legal products and services should be available to consumers and markets. Additional Background Under President Barack Obama, the U.S. Department of Justice initiated “Operation Choke Point,” pressuring financial institutions to stop doing business with payday lenders and firearms dealers. For more than a decade, the OCC has provided guidance that banks should evaluate customer risks individually and that banks should avoid terminating services to broad categories of customers. The NPR codifies the guidance and clarifies the meaning of fair access to banking services in language that Congress added to the OCC’s mission in Title III of the Dodd-Frank Act. That language charged the OCC with “assuring the safety and soundness of, and compliance with laws and regulations, fair access to financial services, and fair treatment of customers by, the institutions and other persons subject to its jurisdiction.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-bill-to-expand-rewards-for-justice-at-stae-department-passess,WILSON BILL TO EXPAND REWARDS FOR JUSTICE AT STATE DEPARTMENT PASSESS HOUSE UNANIMOUSLY,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On November 18, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed H.R. 4802 introduced by Congressman Joe Wilson and Congressman Ted Deutch. This bill will incentivize informants to come forward with actionable information regarding evasion of U.S. or UN sanctions by expanding the Rewards for Justice program at the State Department. ""Passing a sanctions bill is one thing, enforcement is another,"" said Congressman Joe Wilson upon the bill's passage. ""The crucial legislation will provide the U.S. government with better information which will in turn yield stronger enforcement of sanctions on some of the world's most nefarious regimes, like Iran, China, and Russia. Enactment of this bill will further strengthen the integrity of U.S. and UN sanctions and make it that much harder for rogue regimes to skirt sanctions laws. I urge my Senate colleagues to take up this bill as soon as possible.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/sens-scott-coons-and-colleagues-introduce-resolution-designating-november-as-national-college-application-month/,"Sens. Scott, Coons, and colleagues introduce resolution designating November as National College Application Month",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON- Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced a resolution in the Senate designating November as National College Application Month. The resolution was also introduced in the House by Representatives Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) and Susan Wild (D-Pa.) to remind students that they should not let the pandemic prevent them from identifying their college options nor cause further disruptions and barriers to their educational journey. COVID-19 continues to complicate high school seniors’ and others’ assessment of their educational plans with fewer students applying to college and completing the FAFSA when compared to a year ago. The bipartisan resolutions note that “the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the unemployment rate for young adults with a bachelor’s degree and the unemployment rate for young adults whose highest credential is a high school diploma differ by 20 percentage points, which has widened exponentially as a result of the coronavirus.” “Education is the key that unlocks endless opportunities,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Although this year has been different than most, it’s important that the future of our young people not be hindered by the challenges of this pandemic. I encourage all students – regardless of age – to pursue your dreams and continue your educational journey.” “Even amidst all the challenges of this year, it’s important that all of us continue to dream big about the future. If you are a high school senior or someone thinking about returning to school, now is the time to apply and to learn more about your options,” said Senator Coons. “I’m excited to work with my colleagues to recognize everyone undertaking that project this month and look forward to celebrating your plans come spring.” “We have an obligation to keep a high-quality education within reach for each and every student – and that starts with ensuring students and families have access to the important information on the college admissions process, know about the opportunities our excellent community colleges and two-year colleges in PA-07 provide, the value of an advanced degree, and costs so they can make decisions that are right for them,” said Representative Wild. “This academic year comes with so many unprecedented challenges for our high school seniors and those looking to pursue higher education, so it could not be more important to support the work being done – virtually or otherwise – to help guide our students through the college process.” “I am proud to co-sponsor this resolution that will help shed light on the higher education application process. As a member of the House Education and Labor Committee, I continue to encourage all youth to explore ways that they can further their education. I was proud to work with Senator Coons, Senator Scott, and Congresswoman Wild to designate November as National College Application Month,” said Representative Guthrie. In the Senate, the resolution is also cosponsored by Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Tom Carper (D-Del.). The American College Application Campaign (ACAC), an initiative of ACT’s Center for Equity in Learning, National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), and Reach Higher have spoken in support of the resolution. ACAC Director Lisa Sommer King said, “November is a perfect time for students, parents, and educators to focus on moving ahead with college applications. While we’ve had many disruptions in our lives, the congressional resolutions and the support from our allies in this work shows that we’re coming together to remind students —especially Black, Native American, Latinx, and first-generation students — that planning for the future must go on, even during the current challenges.” “Applying to college should be a fundamentally student-centered process,” noted Angel B. Pérez, CEO, NACAC. “Congressional recognition of the significance of the college application process helps raise awareness of the promise of higher education, the disparities in equitable access to college, and the supports needed to ensure that students can make successful transitions.” Stephanie Owens, director of programming, Reach Higher at the Common App, said, “Education is the single most important investment one can make for their future and it gives you the opportunity to meet people with different backgrounds and open your mind to critical thinking.” The three organizations stress the need for school districts and community members to talk to students about the importance of education beyond high school, to organize activities – whether in person or virtual – to support students through the college-going process, to celebrate the important milestones for the Class of 2021 like applying to college or filling out the FAFSA, and to provide a sense of normalcy amid uncertainty.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-unanimously-passes-bipartisan-wilson-bill-holding-russia,HOUSE UNANIMOUSLY PASSES BIPARTISAN WILSON BILL HOLDING RUSSIA ACCOUNTABLE FOR VIOLATIONS OF RELIGIOUS LIBERTY IN UKRAINE,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On November 18, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed H.R. 5408 Ukraine Religious Freedom Support Act introduced by Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) and Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) which holds Russia accountable for violations of religious liberty in Ukraine. For nearly seven years, Russia has illegally occupied Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine, resulting in the deaths of as many ten thousand soldiers and well over three thousand civilians. During this time, Russia has also presided over an unprecedented assault of religious freedom in Ukraine, regularly persecuting and intimidating Christians, Muslims, and other religious groups, with such actions as kidnappings, torture, and forced psychiatric examinations and imprisonment. Minority religious groups in the areas of eastern Ukraine controlled by pro-Russian proxies have also been forced to flee in order to escape the oppressive conditions. The Ukraine Religious Freedom Support Act will hold Russia accountable for these egregious violations of religious liberty in the areas of Ukraine it currently controls. The bill will require the State Department to take violations of religious liberty in areas of Ukraine controlled by Russia into consideration during its annual review of religious freedom in Russia pursuant to the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998. ""I appreciate that the House of Representatives passed this legislation today, sending a strong and clear message to Putin that the United States is watching and will not cease protecting religious freedom in the independent nation of Ukraine. Russian authorities are committing religious persecution in Ukraine, this is unacceptable and must be stopped,"" said Congressman Wilson upon passage of H.R. 5408. ""This bill follows the strong U.S. tradition of protecting religious freedoms around the world by bringing international attention to the grave violations of religious freedom in the territory of Ukraine that Russia illegally occupies while ensuring that Vladimir Putin and his cronies are held accountable."" ""The freedom to practice a religious tradition without fear of persecution is a human right—the likes of which the United States will always rise to defend,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I'm proud to stand with our Ukrainian allies and the U.S. Congress as we send a message that we will not tolerate the oppression of religious minorities, and that any efforts to do so will be met with serious repercussions.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://joewilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-appointed-to-ndaa-conference-committee-1,WILSON APPOINTED TO NDAA CONFERENCE COMMITTEE,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,SC,Joe Wilson,W000795,joewilson.house.gov,joewilson,https://joewilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On November 18, Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) was appointed to the conference committee for this year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). ""I am thankful to serve another year on the NDAA Conference Committee for fiscal year 2021. As a veteran, the father of four sons who have served in the military overseas, and Senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am wholly committed to supporting our servicemembers, veterans, and military families,"" said Congressman Joe Wilson. ""Last year's committee efforts were successful, and I will continue to promote peace through strength and work to champion legislation that benefits South Carolina. I look forward to working with the entire conference committee to advance this bipartisan legislation."" ""Joe is a proud patriot who loves this country and understands the sacrifices of our troops and their families. He is not only a longtime member of the Armed Services Committee and Foreign Affairs Committee, he is a veteran and the father of veterans,"" said House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy. ""That is why he has always been a passionate advocate of a robust national defense based on the timeless principle of peace through strength. With his previous NDAA experience, I am confident Joe will bring a keen eye for detail, deep institutional knowledge, and a determined desire to ensure the priorities of our men and women in uniform are passed by the conference committee."" Members of the NDAA Conference Committee, appointed by the Speaker of the House and approved by the full House, work together to resolve differences between House and Senate-passed versions of the bill that funds the Department of Defense and the Armed Forces of the United States. Congressman Wilson is a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee and serves on the Strategic Forces and Readiness subcommittees.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FD4B8792-AD97-4E6E-B6C3-563A0C1BFAC0,Rep. Rice Releases Statement on Broadband Expansion,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) released the following statement regarding the announcement of broadband expansion in Marion County that was made possible by CARES Act funds. Horry Telephone Cooperative (HTC) expanding in Marion County was made possible by a 1.5 million dollar grant from South Carolina Broadband Infrastructure Program created in the CARES Act and a matching investment from HTC. This expansion will help Marion stay connected and compete in the 21st century economy, provide students with increased learning opportunities, and support underserved residents impacted by the pandemic, said Congressman Tom Rice. Broadband infrastructure is an invaluable resource that will greatly benefit the Seventh District. We are excited to extend this network and be able to serve greater portions of Marion County, said HTC CEO Mike Hagg. This will open up tremendous opportunities for students, businesses, and families to harness the power of the internet. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=3CFD0395-F3F4-426F-8CFF-735861C778A1,Rep. Rice Releases Statement on Passage of Preliminary Damage Assessment Improvement Act of 2020,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) cosponsored the Preliminary Damage Assessment Improvement Act of 2020 (PDAIA). Rep Rice released the following statement regarding the passage of PDAIA today. The Seventh District of South Carolina is no stranger to the damage that can be caused by natural disasters. The Preliminary Damage Assessment Improvement Act will establish damage assessment teams in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure that damage is reported and critical funding is disbursed accurately and efficiently. This crucial legislation will help communities recover from damage by improving consistency and swiftness in the preliminary damage assessment process. I am proud to co-sponsor the PDAIA to ensure there is dependability in FEMA reports.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A0220FDA-FF6A-4166-9E3C-4537AA38D10E,Graham on Afghanistan Drawdown,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) made this statement on troop drawdown in Afghanistan. Generally speaking I think President Trump has done a very good job handling the conflict in Afghanistan and opening new opportunities between the United States and Pakistan. It is my hope that one day all American forces will be able to return home. A drawdown to 2,500 counter-terrorism forces may be sufficient but should be conditions-based, to protect America's interests. I look forward to hearing our commander's views on this matter. It is imperative, for our own national security, that a counter-terrorism force remains in Afghanistan until conditions warrant their removal. A counter-terrorism force in Afghanistan is an insurance policy against another 9/11. I am hopeful but very suspicious of any efforts by the Taliban to reject al-Qaeda in any meaningful way. It is not in America's interests for Afghanistan to sink back into civil war as that is a ripe opportunity for ISIS and al-Qaeda to reemerge in force. #####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-and-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-protect-support-for-victims-of-crime-restore-integrity-to-federal-fund/,"SCOTT AND COLLEAGUES INTRODUCE BILL TO PROTECT SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME, RESTORE INTEGRITY TO FEDERAL FUND",2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) joined Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA) to introduce the Fairness for Crime Victims Act, a bill to ensure that money deposited into the Crime Victims Fund goes to crime victims, and is not abused by congressional appropriators as a tool to fund other projects. “The Crime Victims Fund was created to help those who were victimized by crimes, and the funds should only be used for that purpose,” said Senator Tim Scott. “It’s disappointing that Congress has withheld funds that should be going directly to victims; this type of behavior needs to stop. I hope that my colleagues will support this legislation to bring justice to the survivors of crimes.” “Federal law requires that the proceeds of the Crime Victims Fund only be used to serve victims of crime. Year after year though, Congress withholds billions from victims of child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and other crimes in order to fake a smaller deficit or direct funds to other programs,” said Senator Toomey. “This is wrong and we should do better by victims of crime. Every penny in the Crime Victims Fund should be disbursed annually to serve those for whom it is intended.” “CHILD USA is delighted to see Senator Toomey pushing for justice and service provision for survivors of violent crime with the Fairness for Crime Victims Act,” said Marci Hamilton, CEO and Legal Director of CHILD USA, a national non-profit that works to stop all forms of child abuse. “Ensuring adequate funding to assist child advocacy centers, rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters, and compensation to survivors is essential to assist survivors in escaping and overcoming their abusers.” Background The Crime Victims Fund was created in 1984, based on the principle that the money the federal government collects from those are convicted of crimes should be used to help those victimized by crime. Funded by criminal fines and penalties collected by the federal government, the Crime Victims Fund receives no taxpayer dollars. It is used to compensate victims directly and to support victims’ service groups, such as Child Advocacy Centers, rape crisis centers, and domestic violence shelters. Under federal law, money deposited into the Crime Victims Fund may only be used to assist crime victims. Even though the federal law provides that money deposited in the Crime Victims Fund may only be used to assist crime victims, for more than a decade, Congress has withheld billions of dollars from victims of crime and instead used that money to pay for other discretionary spending projects. Through a budget gimmick, Congress represents that this already-spent money is still in the Crime Victims Fund and available for victims of crime. This legislation would result in more than $2.9 billion being distributed to victims in 2021 – an increase of more than $800 million from 2020. The legislation also ensures the stability of the Crime Victims Fund, guaranteeing victims in South Carolina and across the country the benefits they are owed. This legislation was co-sponsored by Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). Senator Tim Scott was an original co-sponsor of this legislation during the 115th Congress. This bill is endorsed by CHILD USA. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-leads-letter-to-sba-administrator-on-plans-to-spur-entrepreneurial-growth/,Scott Leads Letter to SBA Administrator on Plans to Spur Entrepreneurial Growth,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Chris Coons (D-DE), members of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, co-led a letter to the Small Business Administrator (SBA), Jovita Carranza, requesting the SBA’s current and prospective plans and recommendations for encouraging entrepreneurial growth, particularly for minority owned small businesses and businesses in communities of color. “Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, we had witnessed the longest economic expansion ever recorded in the United States, with unemployment at 50-year lows, poverty on the decline, and incomes on the rise for most, albeit not all, communities and populations in America. The pandemic, unfortunately, has reversed these encouraging trends, triggering widespread job losses and small business closures. While our economy is proving resilient, a robust and sustainable recovery will demand an aggressive entrepreneurial growth strategy,” wrote the senators. “The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which has enabled essential short-term relief for job creators across the country, provides an optimistic illustration of Congress’s ability to work on a bipartisan basis, in consultation with federal agencies, to protect American jobs and preserve pathways to economic opportunity. That said, in order to effectively rebuild, expand, and innovate, our small businesses and entrepreneurs will need additional tools and support, including through practical guidance and mentorship,” the senators continued. A bipartisan group of seven senators joined the letter, including Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Todd Young (R-ID), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV). Prior to being elected to Congress, Senator Tim Scott was a successful entrepreneur and small business owner in South Carolina. He continues to fight for small businesses and workers in Washington to ensure that everyone has access to opportunity. A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/gop-reactions-come-media-calling-election-result,GOP Reactions Come In To Media Calling Election Result,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E7C8484B-EF0E-4F0D-A12D-57FE421D39B5,Rep. Rice Announces HIRE Vets Award Recipients,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC-Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) released the following statement regarding the HIRE Vets Medallion Program Awards. I am honored to announce that two businesses in the Seventh District, AHSC Inc. and Rhino Demolition and Environmental Services Corp., have been awarded the HIRE Vets Small Gold Medallion. Veterans who serve this country shouldn't struggle to find jobs at home, and these employers have made great strides in making veterans a priority in their businesses. Background: HIRE Vets Medallion Program is the onlyfederalprogram that recognizes and honors job creators for their investments in recruiting, employing, and retaining our Nation's veterans. In order to be awarded the 2020 HIRE Vets Small Gold Medallion, businesses must have: Not less than 7% of employees hired, or Not less than 75% of Vets hired retained for 12 months, and At least 7% of employees are Vets",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/39-gop-house-members-send-letter-barr-investigate-voter-fraud,39 GOP House Members Send Letter To Barr: Investigate Voter Fraud,2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/new-report-emphasizes-importance-of-scotts-impact-act-as-opportunity-zones-continue-aiding-distressed-communities/,New Report Emphasizes Importance of Scott’s IMPACT Act as Opportunity Zones Continue Aiding Distressed Communities,2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Legislation addresses all major points of GAO analysis in terms of measuring impact Charleston, SC – A new report on Opportunity Zones released by the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) today emphasizes the need for Senator Tim Scott’s (R-SC) IMPACT Act, which would reinstate and expand reporting requirements to determine the impact of the more than 8,700 Opportunity Zones across the country. When Opportunity Zones were passed as part of the 2017 tax reform package, Senate Democrats utilized procedural rules to strip the reporting requirements initially included with Opportunity Zones from the bill. Senator Scott has been a consistent advocate for reinstating these reporting requirements since then. “With recent announcements such as the creation of 1,500 rural jobs in Hampton County, South Carolina, Opportunity Zones continue to deliver on their promise to help our nation’s most distressed communities,” Senator Scott said. “What we need now is a reporting system in place so we can fully understand the amazing impact these zones are having across the country, and today’s report from the GAO shows the importance of the IMPACT Act as the initiative continues. Regardless of the outcome of the 2020 elections, I hope we can move forward swiftly on this legislation either in the lame duck or in 2021.” The Improving and Reinstating the Monitoring, Prevention, Accountability, Certification, and Transparency Provisions of Opportunity Zones (IMPACT) Act is a bipartisan bill that includes a variety of reporting requirements, fully listed below, to provide for the most robust and granular analysis over time on the targeted impacts of investments in Opportunity Zones. With more than $63 billion already in anticipated investments, it is critical that this analysis is in place. The IMPACT Act’s requirements do this while protecting taxpayer privacy laws and preserving the ability of communities to utilize a wide-variety of possible investments without overburdening entrepreneurs and local governments with mountains of unnecessary paperwork. Instead of utilizing a “Band-Aid method” or temporary fix, the Opportunity Zones initiative aims to lift up entire neighborhoods by attracting private investment to areas most in need. With about $6 trillion of capital gains sitting on the sidelines, investors can now take advantage of a tax incentive if they elect to invest resources in the more than 8,700 designated distressed communities across the country. The law is also written in a way that encourages long-term investment by allowing for a “step-up” approach: There is a greater financial benefit for investing over a 10-year time period, rather than just five years. This type of structure will encourage investors to establish meaningful relationships with the communities they are investing in. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-scott-statement-on-election/,Senator Scott Statement on Election,2020-11-06,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Charleston, SC – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC)tweeted the statement below early this morning regarding the 2020 Presidential election. “Every legally cast vote should be and will be counted, period. Any voting irregularities and allegations of fraud must be thoroughly vetted and investigated, and I would encourage anyone with concrete evidence of either to come forward. This week has shown us that transparency must be increased – for example, the situation in Philadelphia limiting poll watchers’ access is concerning. I also hope we learn lessons on making this process more efficient; if we can put a man on the moon, we can get all our non-military votes counted within 72 hours.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-the-post-and-courier-the-boeing-of-agriculture-touches-down-in-a-corner-of-sc-that-needs-it/,ICYMI: The Post and Courier: ‘The Boeing of agriculture’ touches down in a corner of SC that needs it,2020-10-31,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"HAMPTON COUNTY S.C.– U.S. Senator Tim Scott’s (R-S.C.) bipartisan Investing in Opportunity Act continues to help economically distressed communities. The Post and Courier wrote about how this provision is creating economic opportunity in Hampton County. The $314 million investment in a Hampton County opportunity zone will create up to 1,500 jobs and will offer residents more produce coming from their backyard. You can read the article in its entirety here. The Opportunity Zone program was included in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act as a key provision to help By incentivizing investment in economically-distressed areas, it allows trillions of dollars in private capital to be used to encourage small businesses, support entrepreneurs, and develop properties in zip codes that desperately need a resurgence. ‘The Boeing of agriculture’ touches down in a corner of SC that needs it The Post and Courier The Editorial Staff The $314 million investment planned for Hampton County — which will create a massive greenhouse and packing operation and up to 1,500 jobs in five years — represents one of the most significant economic development announcements ever in this rural region of South Carolina. It’s a big win not only for Hampton County, but also for the entire state. The Agriculture Technology Campus will cover about 1,000 acres and is planned to include greenhouses for growing pesticide-free tomatoes, leafy greens and blueberries, as well as a 150,000-square-foot distribution center and a co-packing facility. It will smartly catch and reuse rainwater for irrigation. The promising project is a joint venture between two indoor farming companies, Mastronardi and Clear Water Farms; a co-packing company, LiDestri Food and Drink; and GEM Opportunity Zone Fund. S.C. Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers notes the project near Early Branch, a few miles from Interstate 95, will offer residents more produce coming from their backyard rather than from California and Mexico and could spur other agribusiness projects in the state. Not only will the center process crops grown on its campus, but other growers may use it to process foods such as salsa and pesto. And it’s expected to attract other businesses, such as packaging manufacturers and shipping companies. For all these reasons, Mr. Weathers has dubbed it “the Boeing of agriculture.” The announcement also likely represents the biggest example to date in South Carolina — and one of the biggest nationwide — of how Opportunity Zones, passed as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, can help not just wealthy investors but the people who live in the distressed areas where they invest. Unfortunately, the impact of these new Opportunity Zones is difficult to track because the legislation required little public reporting on investments, an omission that Opportunity Zones author U.S. Tim Scott hopes to persuade his colleagues to correct soon. John Lettieri, CEO of the Economics Innovation Group, a Washington nonprofit that worked with Sen. Scott and others on the legislation, says while reporting is limited and the program’s rules were set only recently, it’s clear that the program already has steered tens of billions of dollars in new investment nationwide, not just in urban centers but in rural counties, too. “What’s exciting to me about the Hampton County project is not just that investment in isolation but what would it mean for broader investments and better infrastructure,” Mr. Lettieri says. The optimism on all sides is hard to miss. Hampton County Council Chairman Clay Bishop has appropriately called the project “a game changer,” and has thanked the SouthernCarolina Alliance, the S.C. Department of Commerce and the Department of Agriculture for their help. LiDestri Food and Drink CEO Stefani LiDestri says the partnership involves some of the best companies in locally grown produce and will have an impact on the South Carolina agriculture industry for decades. The first part of this new campus is expected to open by 2022, and it could be fully operational three years after that. South Carolina already has some indoor farming operations, also known as controlled environment agriculture, such as Vertical Roots and the Tyger River Smart Farm in the Upstate. But the scale of the new Agriculture Technology Campus and its prominent partnerships will set it apart. Similar indoor farming operations are prevalent in the Netherlands, which is smaller in area than South Carolina but is the world’s second largest agricultural exporter. So as we increasingly look to the Dutch for help with limiting our floods, why not also tap into their expertise in growing foods?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/sci-federal-legislator-year-south-carolina-needs-hunters-thrive,SCI Federal Legislator of the Year: South Carolina Needs Hunters to Thrive,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/politicians-government-officials-react-confirmation-amy-coney-barrett-supreme,"Politicians, government officials react to the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/minority-business-support-to-rural-areas/,"Scott, Wicker, Kaine Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Minority Business Support to Rural Areas",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Historically Black Colleges and Universities Would Be Hubs for Entrepreneurship WASHINGTON – In order to help provide education, training, and technical assistance to rural minority businesses, U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-SC), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Tim Kaine (D-VA), along with U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), and Thom Tillis (R-NC), have introduced the Reaching America’s Rural Minority Businesses Act (S.4873). This important legislation would authorize the Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) to establish up to 10 business centers at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to serve rural and underserved communities. MBDA’s existing Minority Business Centers are concentrated in select urban areas in 18 states, leaving vast swaths of the country without easy access to MBDA’s services. “As a former business owner, I find it crucial that we deploy resources to our young people – especially in minority communities – to ensure that they have access to opportunity,” said Senator Scott. “I am proud to help draft and cosponsor the Reaching America’s Rural Minority Businesses Act, and I look forward to seeing more minority-owned businesses across the nation.” “This bipartisan legislation is a big win for rural and underserved communities in North Carolina,” said Senator Tillis. “North Carolina’s HBCUs have the potential to become education, support, and training hubs for the rural minority businesses in the communities they support, and this legislation makes long-term future success possible for so many businesses and is a great way to focus on each individual need. I am proud to have worked on a bipartisan basis to introduce this legislation and applaud the administration for their continued investment in North Carolina’s HBCUs and our rural communities.” “The Minority Business Development Agency has been a lifeline for many minority business owners and entrepreneurs seeking to start and grow their businesses,” Senator Wicker said. “This bill would help extend these resources to more of rural America, leveraging the expertise and innovation of our nation’s historically black colleges and universities. I am glad to work alongside Senators Tim Kaine, Tim Scott, Chris Coons, and Thom Tillis to help make this expansion possible.” “MBDA centers have long been integral in supporting minority-owned businesses, but many rural businesses face challenges tapping into these federal resources,” Senator Kaine said. “This difficulty is particularly devastating amid the ongoing economic crisis brought on by COVID-19. By combining the talent and expertise of HBCUs and MBDA centers, this bill will offer vital means for rural minority-owned businesses, helping them thrive and expand.” “It’s urgent that Congress deliver comprehensive relief to small businesses struggling to survive the pandemic, but we must also ensure that ongoing recovery efforts reach underserved communities,” Senator Coons said. “This new bill would allow the Minority Business Development Agency to utilize the reach and relationships of HBCUs like Delaware State University to deliver the tools for growth to minority-owned small businesses. This is one of many ways we can prioritize equity and access as we chart the economic recovery.” The legislation would authorize $10 million a year for the creation of up to 10 rural business centers at HBCUs. Eligible institutions would not have to be located in a rural area, but would need to demonstrate how they would serve a rural or underserved minority population. HBCUs would also be able to form a consortium with other HBCUs or institutions of higher learning, which would strengthen the capacity of an established center and broaden its outreach. The rural business centers would provide education, training, and technical assistance to rural minority businesses. Specifically, the centers would assist with: · Adoption of broadband internet service, digital literacy, and e-commerce; · Promoting manufacturing in the United States; · Meeting gaps in the supply chain of critical supplies and essential goods and services; · Improving transportation and logistics; · Promoting trade and export opportunities; and · Facilitating entrepreneurship in rural areas. South Carolina is home to eight HBCUs, including Allen University, Benedict College, Claflin University, Clinton College, Denmark Technical College, Morris College, South Carolina State University, and Voorhees College. Click here to read a one-page summary of the legislation. Click here to read the full bill text. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congratulations-amy-coney-barrett,Congratulations to Amy Coney Barrett,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laurens, S.C. Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03) released the following statement on Judge Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation to the United States Supreme Court: It's a great day for our country Judge Barrett is now Justice Barrett. The Supreme Court gained a strict constitutionalist who will be involved in deciding cases involving key issues like religious freedom, the sanctity of life, the Second Amendment, and many more. Her record speaks for itself she will be a judge, not an activist policymaker. Her brilliance and intellect will make a positive impact on the highest court of the land for decades to come. Congratulations to Justice Barrett and the entire Barrett family. Our nation is thankful for her willingness to serve. Bravo to President Donald Trump and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham for their work on this confirmation. They have been steadfast in delivering on the promise of putting strict constitutionalists on the bench. ICYMI: Duncan Applauds the Nomination of Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court (September 26, 2020) ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rice.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2CD1FF3E-A758-410A-A9B4-1B6FDAE19237,Rep Rice Releases Statement on Judge Barrett Confirmation,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,SC,Tom Rice,R000597,rice.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC- Congressman Tom Rice (R-SC) released the following statement regarding the confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States. Judge Barrett is exceptionally qualified, andI am confident she will interpret the Constitution as it is written, protect our individual freedoms, and uphold the rule of law on which our nation was founded. She belongs on the Supreme Court, and we are fortunate to have her. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6D6A1E5D-CE98-4B63-B9AF-EAB3264D572C,Senate Confirms Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Tonight, the U.S. Senate confirmed Amy Coney Barrett as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States by a vote of 52-48. Barrett is the 220thfederal judge nominated by President Trump for a lifetime appointment and confirmed by the Republican Senate majority. In a floor speech before the vote, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) said: I was honored to be the Chairman of the Committee that reported out Judge Barrett to the floor of the Senate. And I will be honored to cast my vote to put her on the Supreme Court exactly where she deserves to be. So to the Majority Leader and the Minority Leader, this is a tough place to be around. This too shall pass. But this is about Judge Barrett. This is about her time, her moment. She's done everything you would expect of her. She's exceeded every challenge put in her way. She's impressed everybody she's worked with. She has impressed the country. She's going on to the Court because that's where she deserves to be. For the young, conservative women out there who are pro-life and embrace [their] faith, there's a seat at the table for you. This is historic. This nomination is different. This is a breakthrough for young, conservative women. Click to watch Graham's full speech",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-votes-to-confirm-judge-amy-coney-barrett-to-the-supreme-court/,Scott Votes to Confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the following statement upon the confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States: “It is a great honor to serve my home state – and the nation – in the United States Senate. Confirming a Supreme Court nominee is one of the most important responsibilities of the United States Senate, and I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this process once again. It is vital to the future of this nation to have fair and honest judges on the bench to ensure that the scales of justice are balanced for all Americans,” said Senator Tim Scott. “During my meeting with Judge Amy Coney Barrett, I was impressed by her background and knew that she would serve the American people well. Since her nomination, Judge Barrett continued to impress not only the United States Senate, but the American people. This evening, I proudly voted to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the highest court in the land. I am confident that she will uphold our Constitution, and I look forward to her serving as the court’s ninth justice. “I extend the warmest congratulations to newly-confirmed Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett and her family!” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/rep-duncan-blasts-npr-scathing-letter-over-hunter-biden-blackout,Rep. Duncan blasts NPR in scathing letter over Hunter Biden blackout,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/press-releases/duncan-applauds-significant-israel-sudan-peace-agreement,Duncan Applauds Significant Israel-Sudan Peace Agreement,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Laurens, S.C. Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03) released the following statement on the historic peace agreement between Israel and Sudan brokered by the Trump Administration. This follows the Israel-UAE and Israel-Bahrain agreements. Bravo to President Trump for brokering yet another historic peace agreement, this time between Israel and Sudan. Sudan's plan to normalize ties with Israel is an amazing step towards long-awaited peace in the Middle East, and the agreement could not have been made without the strong diplomatic work of the Trump Administration. I hope more nations will look at these recent peace deals and work to normalize ties with our great friend and ally, Israel. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cunningham.house.gov/media/press-releases/cunningham-meets-lowcountry-small-business-owners-continued-impacts-covid-19,Cunningham Meets with Lowcountry Small Business Owners on Continued Impacts of COVID-19,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,SC,Joe Cunningham,C001122,cunningham.house.gov,,,legacy,"Mount Pleasant, S.C. Rep. Joe Cunningham (SC-01) today met with Lowcountry small businesses to discuss the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 at a roundtable event organized by Lowcountry Local First. They discussed the dire need for further federal COVID-19 relief, the need for more flexibility with small business resources like the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and other problems facing Lowcountry small businesses as they manage the continuing challenges caused by COVID-19. Small businesses are the backbone of the Lowcountry's economy, and it is abundantly clear that they are still hurting, said Rep. Joe Cunningham. I am thankful for the opportunity to hear directly from small business owners about the sort of challenges they are facing, including the need for technical changes to federal aid resources like the PPP to make them work better for our smaller businesses. It is crucial that Congressional leaders work with the Administration to pass another round of COVID-19 relief as soon as possible and take into consideration these concerns. ""The needs of small businesses are as diverse as the types of businesses that were represented in our listening session with Congressman Cunningham today. As we heard today, a one-size-fits-all approach to economic recovery typically helps larger, more-established businesses and leaves our small businesses behind. As advocates for the local-independent business community, we appreciate the Congressman taking the time to hear from a variety of businesses from different backgrounds that included retail, restaurant, publishing and light industrial, said Jamee Haley, Executive Director of Lowcountry Local First.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F67798E2-79CD-4A8F-AC53-140A1A732557,Senate Judiciary Committee Unanimously Sends Judge Barretts Nomination to the Full Senate,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after the committee voted unanimously to advance Judge Amy Coney Barrett's nomination to be an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. Now, the full Senate must vote on her nomination. All 12 committee Republicans voted in favor of advancing Barrett's nomination. Democrats boycotted the vote, and therefore Barrett did not receive a single vote against her nomination. Graham said: This is a historic moment for young conservative women. Now you know there is a place at the table for you. It's a historic moment for the Court because Judge Barrett is someone who openly embraces her faith and has lived a consequential life. As you know, our Democratic colleagues announced last night that they would boycott today's vote. They made a choice not to participate. It was my choice to call a vote on Barrett's nomination today. We won't allow them to take over the committee. The committee questioned Judge Barrett and heard about her qualifications from outside witnesses. Judge Barrett acquitted herself well. She was challenged, but it was fair. The American people got to see firsthand just how qualified Judge Barrett is to serve on the Supreme Court. The nomination process took a dark turn in 2013 when the Democrats changed the rules of the Senate for District and Circuit court nominees requiring a simple majority vote. As I said in 2013, I fear over time the rules changes will have a chilling effect on the judiciary and create greater divisions within the Senate. Here's some good news. The Senate Judiciary Committee got it right when it came to Judge Barrett. It would have been wrong to deny her a vote. We did the right thing. I thank my colleagues for showing up and voting in favor of Judge Barrett today and I look forward to her confirmation by the U.S. Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/retiring-congressman-pins-rep-jeff-duncan-potential-nuclear-waste-energy-leader,"Retiring congressman pins Rep. Jeff Duncan as potential nuclear waste, energy leader",2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D1D632E0-4861-4C6B-B08C-B5E307B8A7D6,Chairman Graham on Dems Boycotting Committee Vote: Judge Barrett Deserves a Vote and She Will Receive a Vote,2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after committee Democrats announced they would boycott the vote on Judge Amy Coney Barrett's Supreme Court nomination. On Judge Barrett: Judge Amy Coney Barrett is one of the most highly qualified people to ever be nominated to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.She will faithfully apply the law to the facts without personal agenda and fully understands the difference between an impartial judge and a political activist.I am very glad that the American people during the hearings were able to see the tremendous capabilities and qualifications of Judge Barrett. The hearings served a valuable purpose in letting the world know how talented and prepared Judge Amy Coney Barrett is to serve on the Supreme Court. Judge Barrett was repeatedly challenged on the law, her disposition and capabilities. When it came to the law, she soared.She has a judicial disposition that should be the gold standard for all future nominees. And she has led a consequential, well-rounded life apart from the law.It was clear after Judge Barrett's questioning why the ABA rated her well qualified, the highest rating possible. Finally, I appreciate the fact the hearings did not deteriorate as they have in the past and become a circus. On Committee Democrats boycotting Judge Barrett's vote: Judge Barrett deserves a vote and she will receive a vote.Judge Barrett deserves to be reported out of committee and she will be reported out of committee.Judge Barrett deserves to be on the Supreme Court and she will be confirmed. She is one of the most prepared people to have ever been nominated for the Supreme Court.America will be fortunate to have her as a member of the highest court in the land. As to my Democratic colleagues' refusal to attend the markup, that is a choice they are making. I believe it does a disservice to Judge Barrett who deserves a vote, up or down. The nomination process took a dark turn in 2013 when the Democrats changed the rules of the Senate for District and Circuit court nominees requiring a simple majority vote. My Democratic colleagues chose to engage in a partisan filibuster of Justice Gorsuch for the first time in U.S. history requiring the changing of the rules regarding Supreme Court nominations.As I said in 2013, I fear over time the rules changes will have a chilling effect on the judiciary and create greater divisions within the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=EE5626FB-CAA6-4334-AF76-42A28CA598C1,Chairman Graham on Court Packing: Were Sticking with Nine,2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) joined a press conference to discuss the Democrats' plan for court packing. GRAHAM:I can't think of a more destabilizing event for America than changing the number of [justices] on the Supreme Court every election cycle because it becomes a winner take all for the Court.https://youtu.be/MELWwCHme9M?t=4 GRAHAM:I just want to urge all of my colleagues to support Senator Rubio's efforts to solidify that we're sticking with nine. Nine has served us well.https://youtu.be/MELWwCHme9M?t=37 GRAHAM:The traditional debate has been who fills vacancies: liberal or conservative. It's never been about how many will you have. And you'll eventually destroy the judiciary as we know it.https://youtu.be/MELWwCHme9M?t=18 GRAHAM:So, a word of warning here. If you think [Democrats] are kidding [about packing the Court], you're making a mistake. I'd hate to be the Senator that said no I don't want to pack the Court, on the Democratic side. Because if you think it was bad for Senator Feinstein your world would come to an end politically.https://youtu.be/MELWwCHme9M?t=121 GRAHAM: We need to get the fever to break. The best way for the fever to break is for the country to make the decision to put in the Constitution: Nine is the right number.https://youtu.be/MELWwCHme9M?t=140 Click to watch Graham's remarks",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/ec-republicans-demand-hearing-big-tech-censorship-policies-section-230,"E&C Republicans Demand Hearing with Big Tech on Censorship Policies, Section 230",2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/house-republicans-urge-barr-appoint-special-counsel-probe-alleged-biden,House Republicans urge Barr to appoint special counsel to probe alleged Biden revelations,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-scott-votes-to-aid-workers-and-businesses-across-the-nation/,SENATOR SCOTT VOTES TO AID WORKERS AND BUSINESSES ACROSS THE NATION,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott released the following statement after the Senate Democrats voted against expanding the Paycheck Protection Program for American workers and businesses: “Countless Americans have spent several months without a paycheck and today’s vote is just proof of how the Democrats are unwilling to put aside partisan politics to help the American people,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Our workers – and small businesses – deserve better, and I will continue to advocate on behalf of these struggling Americans. I proudly support the expansion of the Paycheck Protection Program and hope that my colleagues will come to the table to pass a relief bill.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/house-republicans-ask-fbi-if-it-had-hunter-bidens-alleged-laptop-during-trumps,House Republicans ask FBI if it had Hunter Biden's alleged laptop during Trump's impeachment,2020-10-17,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/scalise-mcmorris-rodgers-demand-answers-twitters-unprecedented-actions-hunter,"Scalise, McMorris Rodgers demand answers on Twitter's 'unprecedented' actions on Hunter Biden story",2020-10-17,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=689,Rep. Norman Introduces Bill to Help Parents Who Educate Their Children At Home,2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,SC,Ralph Norman,N000190,norman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Norman Introduces Bill to Help Parents Who Educate Their Children At Home Washington, D.C., October 16, 2020 | Austin Livingston (803-833-0030) For background information, the IRS allows an ""eligible educator"" to deduct up to $250 of unreimbursed education expenses, which could include books, supplies, computer equipment, software, and other items used in the classroom. Furthermore, the IRS definition of eligible educator is a K-12 teacher who provides instruction in a traditional school environment. Rep. Norman's new bill would direct the Secretary of the Treasury to clarify IRS regulations such that ""individuals who provide home-school education are 'eligible educators'"" for the purpose of this tax deduction. Rep. Norman issued the following statement after filing this bill: ""Parents who educate their children at home are, in fact, teachers. As such, home educators should be eligible for the same tax deductions that K-12 teachers in a traditional school are entitled to. This is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic, as more and more families have chosen home schooling to help meet the educational goals they have for their children."" Organizations endorsing this bill include: FreedomWorks Family Research Council American Federation for Children National Taxpayers Union National Taxpayers Union issued the following statement about Rep. Norman's bill: ""With millions of children learning from home this year and next, parents may face a number of unanticipated schooling expenses. Congressman Norman's Home Educators are Teachers Act would ensure that parents homeschooling their kids can access a $250 deduction for education expenses, providing some commonsense relief for families across the country. National Taxpayers Union applauds Congressman Norman for introducing this bill.""\",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=BBAF9626-1133-4605-9A9D-75B91086B325,Chairman Graham Locks in Key Committee Vote for Judge Barrett?,2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON? Today the Senate Judiciary Committee, led by U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), set a date for a committee vote on Judge Amy Coney Barrett's nomination to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. The committee will vote on Judge Barrett's nomination on Thursday, October 22 at 1:00 p.m. I think that Judge Barrett is exactly the kind of person that you would expect any Republican president to consider because of who she is, the way she's lived her life, and the philosophy she espouses. We've given this nominee a chance to be questioned fairly and firmly. There is no way you will convince me that Amy Coney Barrett is not qualified to serve in this position. I have had an opportunity to witness severalpeople apply for the job of Supreme Court Justice. I have never met a more amazing person in my life than Judge Barrett. From the professor who helped the struggling young blind student to her knowledge of the law to her disposition and character, Judge Barrett is in a class all her own. The hearing of Judge Amy Barrett to become an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court is now over. The committee vote will be October 22. There is a seat waiting for Judge Barrett on the Court, and God-willing she will be voted out of committee and confirmed swiftly.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cunningham.house.gov/media/press-releases/cunningham-cosponsors-local-journalism-sustainability-act,Cunningham Cosponsors the Local Journalism Sustainability Act,2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,SC,Joe Cunningham,C001122,cunningham.house.gov,,,legacy,"Charleston, S.C. Rep. Joe Cunningham (SC-01) today cosponsored the Local Journalism Sustainability Act, bipartisan legislation that proposes a series of tax credits aimed at bolstering local newspapers and media in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Local news publications were already facing financial difficulties prior to the onset of COVID-19. Now, in the wake of the severe economic challenges caused by the pandemic, the industry is facing increased challenges to remaining sustainable. I recognize the vital importance of our local news outlets in the Lowcountry, said Rep. Joe Cunningham. During COVID-19, our local papers, TV, and radio stations have done a phenomenal job delivering timely and critical information to our community. I am proud to support bipartisan legislation that provides tax credits for readers, journalists, and advertisers to keep Lowcountry news outlets afloat and protect the essential service they provide. The Local Journalism Sustainability Act offers a series of three tax-credits aimed at sustaining and providing a pathway to viability for the local journalism industry in the years to come. The first credit works to incentivize annual subscriptions to local papers that primarily produce content related to local news and current events. The second credit is a five-year refundable credit for local newspapers to employ and adequately compensate journalists. The last of the three credits is a five-year non-refundable tax credit that incentivizes small-to-medium sized businesses to advertise with local newspapers, as well as local radio and television stations. The proposed credits in the Local Journalism Sustainability Act will encourage Americans to subscribe to local publications, help those publications retain and compensate journalists, and provide businesses and publications alike with much-needed advertising dollars.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://jeffduncan.house.gov/media/in-the-news/politicians-congratulate-organization-headed-former-sc-governor-nobel-peace-prize,Politicians congratulate organization headed by former SC governor on Nobel Peace Prize win,2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,SC,Jeffrey Duncan,D000615,jeffduncan.house.gov,,,legacy,2229 Rayburn House Office Building,1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://cunningham.house.gov/media/press-releases/cunningham-joins-south-carolina-delegation-introduce-bipartisan-legislation,Cunningham Joins South Carolina Delegation to Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Parris Island,2020-10-09,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,SC,Joe Cunningham,C001122,cunningham.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Rep. Joe Cunningham (SC-01), who represents Parris Island, today joined Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-02), Senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, and Congressman Ralph Norman (SC-05), to introduce the Parris Island Protection Act. This bipartisan legislation would protect Parris Island from closure by prohibiting the use of federal funds to close or plan the closure of the Marine Corps Training Depotat Parris Island,and recognizes the important contributions female recruits have played there since 1949. The action comes in response toreportsthat the U.S. Marine Corps was considering plans to shutter Parris Island and move all new recruits to a new centralized base. I am humbled by the opportunity to represent Parris Island and take seriously my responsibility to safeguarditscritical role in ensuring our national defense,said Rep. Joe Cunningham.For over 100 years, tens of thousands of Marines have begun their outstanding service to our nation in our backyard and I will not let that change on my watch. I am proud to stand with my colleagues across the aisle and protect Parris Island by prohibiting federal funds from being used to close or realign the base. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) intends to introduce companion legislation in the U.S. Senate. Last year, Cunningham successfully passed anamendmentin the House that would protect Lowcountry installations from closing by prohibiting funds from being used for a base realignment and closure (BRAC).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z