url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=5539,Sen. Cruz: This Year Highlighted the Resilience of Texas and the Vigor of the American Spirit,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HOUSTON, Texas - In a year marked by unique challenges, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) proudly fought for more economic opportunity for millions of Texans, security for America and her allies, and freedom for all Americans to live, work, and worship as they choose. WATCH: Sen. Cruz: This Year Highlighted the Resilience of Texas and the Vigor of the American Spirit Reflecting on the past year, Sen. Cruz said: ""Texans are strong and resilient and the American spirit has always been marked by courage and generosity. That spirit was on full display throughout this year as we dealt with the massive economic and public health crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. We dealt with enflamed racial division and a polarized political environment. ""Despite all of these difficulties, Texans and Americans alike rose to the challenge to help our neighbors and those in need by supporting our brave health care workers, first responders, grocery store clerks, and other critical workers on the front lines of this crisis, truly making a difference in our communities. People across this great nation exercised their fundamental rights to further the promises this nation was founded upon - freedom and equality. I am confident that we will come out of these troubled times stronger, more united, and renewed in pursuit of freedom and opportunity for every American. ""As we look ahead to 2021, I am deeply honored to continue representing the great state of Texas, and I will continue fighting to reopen our economy and to get millions of Americans safely back to work, back to school, to strengthen America's national security, and to protect the religious liberty and the constitutional rights of each and every American."" Sen. Cruz's 2020 Highlights: Combatting the Coronavirus Pandemic SIGNED INTO LAW: Helped secure passage of three coronavirus emergency response packages to address the public health crisis and deliver real relief for the American people. Launched the #CombatCOVID19Challenge, a social media challenge to encourage Americans to continue supporting their communities as we all work to combat this pandemic. Sen. Cruz kicked off the challenge by delivering food to the Houston Police Officers' Union. Introduced the Reinvigorating the Economy, Creating Opportunity for every Vocation, Employer, Retiree & Youth or RECOVERY Act, a comprehensive legislative package designed to help small businesses re-hire their employees and create jobs, help kids get back to school safely, allow Americans to catch-up on their retirement savings, and help find cures for COVID-19 while increasing testing. Introduced the Creating Capacity for Communities in Need Act, legislation to increase healthcare capacity and to speed up FDA approval for certain vaccines and therapeutics. PASSED THE U.S. SENATE: Led the fight to pass legislation to enhance partnerships between companies in the United States and Israel to develop innovative medical projects aimed at detecting, treating, and curing COVID-19. Introduced the Equal Access to Care Act and the Right to Test Act, legislation to expand healthcare access and make testing more available. Introduced the Bring Entrepreneurial Advancements to Consumers Here In North America or BEAT CHINA Act to incentivize pharmaceutical, medical device, and supply manufacturers to relocate to the United States. Introduced the Ending Chinese Medical Censorship and Cover Ups Act, legislation to sanction Chinese officials involved in the ongoing suppression of medical experts, journalists, and political dissidents, amid Chinese censorship of its citizens that helped fuel the coronavirus pandemic. Introduced the Coronavirus Emergency Education Grants Act, legislation designed to empower all families with the resources needed to provide for their children's public, private, or homeschool education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Introduced the COVID-19 Vaccine Protection Act to prevent the Communist Chinese Party (CCP) from stealing or sabotaging American COVID-19 vaccine research. Introduced the Addressing Missed-savings Opportunities for Retirement due to an Epidemic or AMORE Act to allow individuals facing financial challenges and who are unable to make contributions to their tax-advantaged retirement accounts in 2020 to make ""catch-up"" contributions to these accounts in the coming years. Delivering for Texas INFLUENCED THE ADMINISTRATION: Protected small and independent refiners facing bankruptcy because of the pandemic by working with the administration to make sure these energy producers had access to critical capital. Sen. Cruz also worked to ensure that banks were not discriminating against energy producers so that they could keep their wells producing, their doors open and their employees on the payroll. INFLUENCED THE ADMINISTRATION: Successfully pushed for the Federal Reserve to establish a new lending facility to provide immediate emergency liquidity for oil and gas businesses, a request they granted by altering their Main Street Lending Program to allow energy companies to qualify for much-needed relief. INFLUENCED THE ADMINISTRATION: Led the fight in the Senate to help secure an agreement for Saudi Arabia and Russia to significantly cut oil production amid this emergency. These efforts held Saudi Arabia and Russia accountable for engaging in predatory oil pricing during the pandemic, which greatly impacted Texas energy producers. SIGNED INTO LAW: Worked to secure passage for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) which was signed by President Trump, a decisive victory for farmers, ranchers, businesses, and manufacturers to ensure greater economic opportunities for all Americans. This trade agreement puts American jobs first, including the 2.2 million jobs in Texas directly dependent on international trade. PASSED THE U.S. SENATE: Led the fight as chair of the Aviation and Space Subcommittee to unanimously pass in the Senate the NASA Authorization Act, legislation that gives NASA the resources it needs to face a new era of space exploration and enhances our presence in low-Earth orbit. The bill will also help Americans safely return to the moon and will bring us closer to an American taking the first step on the surface of Mars. In addition, Sen. Cruz's legislation to permanently protect the Apollo landing sites on the moon also passed the House and Senate. Led efforts to urge the U.S. Air Force to designate Port San Antonio and Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) as the location for the U.S. Space Command Headquarters (USSPACECOM HQ). SIGNED INTO LAW: Led efforts in the Senate to pass legislation authorizing the Daughters of the Republic of Texas to establish a memorial commemorating the Republic of Texas Legation in Washington D.C. which was signed into law in December. Boosting Jobs, Jobs, Jobs Confirming Constitutionalist Judges and Protecting Our Independent Judiciary As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Sen. Cruz led the fight to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, the third Supreme Court justice he has helped confirm since 2017. Justice Barrett is a principled constitutionalist with impeccable credentials and her confirmation was a great victory for every American who cares about the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and our fundamental liberties. In 2020, the Senate confirmed 48 federal judges, while celebrating the 200th federal judicial nominee confirmed by the Senate since the election of President Donald J. Trump. These 234 judges will faithfully interpret and apply the law as part of an independent judiciary, and their addition to the federal courts will benefit all Americans who value the Constitution and individual liberties for decades to come. Led the fight in the Senate to preserve the integrity and independence of the Supreme Court by introducing two proposals, including the ""Keep Nine"" constitutional amendment, to maintain the number of justices on the bench and protect Americans' constitutional liberties. Standing with the Brave Men and Women of Law Enforcement Took a stand against Antifa and introduced the Restitution for Economic losses Caused by Leaders who Allow Insurrection and Mayhem or RECLAIM Act, legislation to hold state and local officials liable when rioters establish lawless autonomous zones' and officials abdicate their duty to protect their citizens. Sen. Cruz also delivered a speech on the Senate floor condemning the violent groups that hijacked the peaceful and just protests honoring George Floyd, and calling for strong leadership to stop the riots and restore law and order. Signed Heritage Action's Police Pledge to reaffirm his support for the men and women of our nation's law enforcement and his commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities. Introduced legislation to rename the U.S. Border Patrol Station in Rocksprings to honor Agent Donna M. Doss, who proudly served in the U.S. Border Patrol for more than 15 years and was killed in the line of duty. Chaired a hearing titled ""The Right of the People Peaceably to Assemble: Protecting Speech by Stopping Anarchist Violence,"" examining how groups like Antifa and other anti-American anarchists exploit peaceful protests and engage in political violence. Took action to protect Americans by re-introducing Kate's law, legislation to impose a mandatory minimum prison sentence on illegal aliens with serious felony convictions who illegally reenter the country. Introduced the National Child Identification Act, legislation that would authorize the use of federal grant funds from the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 to provide child identification kits to local law enforcement for distribution to parents of children who attend kindergarten or elementary school. These kits remain with parents, who may provide the kit to law enforcement in the tragic event that their child is missing. SIGNED INTO LAW: Led efforts to rename a U.S. Post Office in Houston, Texas the ""Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal Post Office Building,"" to serve as a lasting tribute to Deputy Dhaliwal's trailblazing legacy for Sikh Americans and religious minorities in law enforcement. This legislation passed the U.S. Senate and was signed into law in December. Holding Big Tech Accountable Fought to subpoena both Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee on political censorship and election interference and questioned them at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Called for a criminal investigation into Twitter for violating our laws prohibiting Americans from providing services to sanctioned Iranian individuals. Sent two letters - one to Google and one to Facebook - slamming the companies for their separate announcements regarding their decisions to limit or block election advertising. Joined Parler, a pro-free-speech social media platform. Questioned the CEOs of Twitter, Facebook, and Google at a Senate Commerce Committee hearing regarding Big Tech's repeated political censorship and their attempts to interfere in the 2020 election, as well as the need to reform Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. Protecting Our Religious Freedom Introduced the Safeguarding Americans from Coronavirus and Religious Exercise Discrimination or SACRED Act, legislation that would block federal funding for COVID relief to state and local governments that discriminate against religious individuals or institutions, violating their First Amendment rights. INFLUENCED THE ADMINISTRATION: Called on the Department of Justice to investigate state and local officials who target and discriminate against religious communities under the guise of protecting public health, which resulted in a rebuke of New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio. Sent a letter urging the Secretary of Defense to protect religious freedom within the Department of Defense after reports that the Army has censored military chaplains and harmed their ability to provide religious services during the coronavirus pandemic - access that is not only essential for many service members, but also mandated by the Constitution. Joined an amicus brief on behalf of 34 Senators supporting the Capitol Hill Baptist Church's lawsuit against Muriel Bowser, the Mayor of Washington, D.C., after she permitted and participated in several mass protests but issued COVID-19 regulations prohibiting a religious gathering of more than 100 individuals outdoors. Penned an op-ed warning against the dangers of ""pandemic authoritarianism"" and urged state and local leaders to protect Americans' civil liberties as we all work together to combat COVID-19. Protecting Life Sent a letter to the Small Business Administration (SBA) requesting a full investigation into the 37 Planned Parenthood affiliates who applied for and improperly received a total of $80 million in loans from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Called on the administration to maintain pro-life protections during the search for COVID-19 treatments and cures. Urged the FDA to classify the abortion pill Mifeprex as a hazard to public health. Honoring Our Veterans Introduced the Limiting and Enabling Gathering Awards Commemorating Yesteryear or LEGACY Act to facilitate the repatriation of medals, including the Congressional Medal of Honor (MoH), into the United States for display in museums and for educational purposes. Cosponsored the National Purple Heart Honor Mission Commemorative Coin Act, legislation that would direct the Treasury Department to issue $5 gold coins, $1 silver coins, and half-dollar clad coins in 2022 honoring Purple Heart recipients and the work of the National Purple Heart Honor Mission. SIGNED INTO LAW: Led efforts in the Senate to pass legislation that would give the president authority to award posthumously the Medal of Honor to Texas's own Sergeant First Class (SFC) Alwyn Cashe. This legislation was signed into law in December. SIGNED INTO LAW: Led efforts to rename a U.S. Postal Office located in Castroville, Texas as the ""Lance Corporal Rhonald Dain Rairdan Post Office,"" as a memorial to Lance Corporal Rairdan and his fellow soldiers who fell in the line of duty. This legislation passed the U.S. Senate and was signed into law in December. Defending Our Second Amendment Rights Urged the ATF to ensure that law-abiding citizens are not deprived of their constitutional right to keep and bear arms during the coronavirus pandemic. Raised concerns to the Attorney General and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) about the ATF's practice of relying on non-public standards in its regulation of the importation of ArmaLite Rifle (AR) styled pistols and pistol stabilizing braces. Standing Up to America's Enemies and Adversaries While Standing With Her Allies Russia PASSED THE U.S. SENATE: Led a congressional push to halt construction of Vladimir Putin's Nord Stream 2 pipeline by clarifying and expanding sanctions. If completed, the Nord Stream 2 pipeline would reward Russia's aggressive expansionism and economic blackmail, hold our European allies' energy security hostage to Russia, and undermine America's national security interests. These efforts passed the U.S. Senate. INFLUENCED THE ADMINISTRATION: Led the fight for the United States to exit from Cold War-style treaties that constrain American capabilities while providing advantages to Russia or China, such as the Open Skies Treaty and outdated nuclear treaties. Middle East Attended the White House signing ceremony for the Abraham Accords, historic agreements to normalize relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors, the achievement of which validated Sen. Cruz's long-running advocacy that unapologetically standing with Israel would unite our allies across the region. INFLUENCED THE ADMINISTRATION: Led the fight to end the catastrophic Obama-Iran nuclear deal, including by revoking the remaining civil-nuclear waivers stemming from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and calling for the deal to be ended once and for all by invoking UN snapback sanctions, restoring all international sanctions on Iran and preventing the United Nations Arms embargo on Iran from expiring. Introduced the Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act, a bill that urges the U.S. State Department to use its statutory authority to designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Introduced the Stop Sending American Taxpayer Money To Governments Controlled By Terrorists Act aimed at creating accountability related to the use of American funds in Hezbollah-controlled Lebanon. PASSED THE U.S. SENATE: Following the successful mission that killed Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force and a designated terrorist, Sen. Cruz introduced and the Senate passed in February an amendment recognizing and applauding the president and the brave men and women involved in the mission. Fought against and introduced a resolution condemning the International Criminal Court for unjust, politicized prosecutions against American and Israeli citizens. China Sen. Cruz's leadership against the CCP's human rights atrocities and political oppression led to his being repeatedly sanctioned, something he calls ""a badge of honor."" Led efforts to end U.S. dependence on China for rare earth elements and other critical minerals by introducing the Onshoring Rare Earths or ORE Act, legislation that would establish a supply chain in the U.S. for minerals used to manufacture defense technologies and other high-tech products. INFLUENCED THE ADMINISTRATION: Led the fight to combat the CCP's propaganda by introducing the Blocking Evasive Attempts to Manipulate Signals or BEAMS Act, legislation to prevent the CCP from exploiting Federal Communications Commission (FCC) loopholes to propagandize to Americans from radio stations in Mexico or Canada, including through stations entangled with Chinese state-owned media outlets such as Phoenix TV. This legislation resulted in the Trump Administration blocking the license to these stations. Introduced the Stopping Censorship, Restoring Integrity, Protecting Talkies or SCRIPT Act, legislation cutting off Hollywood studios from assistance they receive from the Department of Defense if those studios censor their films for screening in China. Introduced the Sanctioning and Highlighting Authoritarian Medicine and Eugenics or SHAME Act, legislation sanctioning CCP officials for systematic ethnic cleansing, including through forced abortions and other coercive population control measures in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Introduced the Strongly and Unambiguously Sanctioning Proliferators Exploiting Nuclear Diplomacy or SUSPEND Act, legislation imposing sanctions on the defense sectors of China and Russia unless those countries reverse violations of their obligations under international arms control treaties. Introduced the Protecting America from Spies Act, legislation that would allow the Department of State to deny visas to individuals who have committed acts of espionage or intellectual property theft against the United States. Stood with our friends in Taiwan by introducing the Taiwan Symbols of Sovereignty Act, allowing diplomats and service members in the Taiwanese military to display their flag and wear their uniforms while in the United States on official businesses, and fighting against the exclusion of Taiwan from international forums such as ICAO at the behest of Communist China. Western Hemisphere Fought to ensure deep and robust relations between the United States and our Mexican partners, including working with the Trump administration to protect supply lines running between the two countries and recently calling on the Departments of State and Justice to prevent the Mexican government from undermining our countries' security and law enforcement relationship. Introduced a bipartisan resolution to rename the street outside the Cuban Embassy in Washington D.C. as ""Oswaldo Pay Way,"" casting a light on the Cuban regime's human rights atrocities. Introduced a bipartisan resolution expressing support for the people of Nicaragua. Continued working to bring home Americans unjustly held by the Maduro regime in Venezuela, including calling for sanctions against officials involved in the imprisonment of the CITGO 6. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=video&id=5538,Sen. Cruz: This Year Highlighted the Resilience of Texas and the Vigor of the American Spirit,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Central TX (512) 916-5834 300 E 8th Suite 961 Austin, TX 78701 Email North TX (214) 599-8749 Lee Park Tower II 3626 N. Hall St. Suite 410 Dallas, TX 75219 Email Southeast TX (713) 718-3057 The Mickey Leland Federal Building 1919 Smith Street Suite 9047 Houston, TX 77002 Email South/Cen. TX (210) 340-2885 9901 IH-10W Suite 950 San Antonio, TX 78230 Email East TX (903) 593-5130305 S. Broadway Suite 501 Tyler, TX 75702 Email South TX (956) 686-7339 200 S. 10th St Suite 1603 McAllen, TX 78501 Email Washington, D.C. (202) 224-5922 127A Russell Washington, DC 20510 Contact",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=5537,"Sen. Cruz Condemns Jailing of Chinese Journalist Who Documented Wuhan Coronavirus Outbreak, Vows to Reintroduce Sanctions Bill Against Chinese Medical Censorship",2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HOUSTON, Texas - U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement in response to reports that China will jail journalist Zhang Zhan for four years, in retaliation for Zhan's efforts in early 2020 to document the emergence and spread of COVID-19, and announced his intention to reintroduce the ""Ending Chinese Medical Censorship and Cover Ups Act,"" legislation to sanction Chinese officials involved in the ongoing suppression of medical experts, journalists, and political dissidents trying to disseminate medical information: ""In the early days of the pandemic, the Chinese Communist Party did everything it could to cover up the severity of the outbreak, from lying about the origin of the virus and how it was being transmitted, to destroying evidence, to silencing the brave whistleblower doctors, scientists, journalists, and activists who tried to warn the world and prevent a global public health crisis. Had the CCP acted responsibly, there's a very real possibility the coronavirus could have been contained as a regional outbreak. Almost a year later, the CCP is continuing and deepening its repression of those whistleblowers. ""The consequences of this censorship continuing are deadly - not just for those in China but for Americans and people around the world. That's why at the start of the next Congress I will reintroduce a version of my bill from the 116th Congress, the Ending Chinese Medical Censorship and Cover Ups Act, legislation to impose visa bans and asset blocks on those who punish or censor Chinese citizens for reporting accurate information about a disease. COVID-19 went global because of this sort of malign behavior, and it is imperative that those who conduct it are held accountable."" Sen. Cruz has been leading the charge in the Senate to fundamentally reassess the U.S.-China relationship and counter Chinese censorship in the wake of the CCP coronavirus coverup. In May, Sen. Cruz first introduced the ""Ending Chinese Medical Censorship and Cover Ups Act"" after he delivered remarks on the Senate Floor highlighting the acute need to counter Chinese propaganda and hold China accountable for the types of medical and political censorship that helped fuel the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Additionally, since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, Sen. Cruz has: Led efforts to end U.S. dependence on China for rare earth elements and other critical minerals by introducing the Onshoring Rare Earths or ORE Act, legislation that would establish a supply chain in the U.S. for minerals used to manufacture defense technologies and other high-tech products. Introduced the Blocking Evasive Attempts to Manipulate Signals or BEAMS Act, legislation to prevent the CCP from exploiting Federal Communications Commission (FCC) loopholes to propagandize to Americans from radio stations in Mexico or Canada, including through stations entangled with Chinese state-owned media outlets such as Phoenix TV. This legislation resulted in the Trump Administration blocking the license to these stations. Introduced the Stopping Censorship, Restoring Integrity, Protecting Talkies or SCRIPT Act, legislation cutting off Hollywood studios from assistance they receive from the Department of Defense if those studios censor their films for screening in China. Introduced the Sanctioning and Highlighting Authoritarian Medicine and Eugenics or SHAME Act, legislation sanctioning CCP officials for systematic ethnic cleansing, including through forced abortions and other coercive population control measures in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Sen. Cruz's leadership against the CCP's human rights atrocities and political oppression led to his being repeatedly sanctioned, something he calls ""a badge of honor."" READ: Sen. Cruz on FoxNews.com: China Is Expanding Its Malign Influence All Over the World ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=403002,Burgess: Presidents should be in command of our troops,2020-12-29,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement after voting against overturning President Trump's veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The President of the United States is the Commander in Chief and should have the ability to bring our troops home. President Trump committed to America that he would end the endless wars our country has been fighting. Over the last four years, he has kept his promise. The NDAA placed restrictions on the President's ability to bring troops home from commitment overseas. Rather than restrict the President's authority, Congress should do more to see how we can support our troops as they defend this great country while evaluating how to swiftly remove them from harm's way, said Burgess.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=403003,Burgess: Vote puts Americans First,2020-12-29,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement after voting in support of the CASH Act. Americans are hurting. This Coronavirus has affected more than our physical health. Americans have suffered from job and financial losses. When putting together the appropriations for this year and the next COVID-19 response legislation, the priority should have been to help the American people. Congress should have gone through each of the appropriation bills in a bipartisan way so that we were not left at the end of the year having to cram everything in one bill. When Speaker Pelosi decided to combine the two bills, there should have been cuts to other parts of our budget to ensure we could have included more money going directly to Americans first. Through this pandemic, Congress' focus should be America's needs, said Burgess.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/washington-dc-wric-americans-are-hopeful-covid-19-vaccines-will-make-2021,ABC News8: Congressman calls for FDA to continue vaccine trials,2020-12-29,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (WRIC) Americans are hopeful that the COVID-19 vaccines will make 2021 a better year than 2020. However, there are concerns that Pfizer and Moderna will stop their clinical trials and immediately treat everyone in their placebo group. Some scientists, doctors and now a Congressman argues that can be dangerous because they said there is still so much unknown about the vaccines. Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas wrote a letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urging for the clinical trials to continue. the continuation of clinical trials is critical to our understanding of the efficacy and length of immunity the vaccines offer, Doggett wrote. In the letter, Doggett said while the initial results received from Pfizer and Moderna are showing positive results, it's not definitive given the limited data. Clinical trials have suffered from a lack of diverse participant enrollment and evaluation of subpopulations, Doggett said. Including individuals with comorbidities, children, pregnant and breastfeeding patients, long-term care residents and individuals with diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Diana Zuckerman, President of the National Center for Health Research, a non-partisan think tank in Washington D.C., agrees that the clinical trials should continue. She said healthcare workers who volunteered for the clinical trials should have immediate access to the vaccine if they want it. Like most public health experts, I've been very concerned that Pfizer and Moderna told the FDA that they want to stop their clinical trials of the COVID vaccine and instead immediately inoculate everyone in their placebo groups, Zuckerman said. While I understand the desire to reward the clinical trial volunteers for their service, it would be a huge loss of information from a public health point of view. Losing the placebo group means we'd have no way to scientifically determine which of the vaccines if any have 95% efficacy rates that last more than 2 or 3 months. Or how long the vaccine works on people over 75. Zuckerman added the people who volunteer for the clinical trials shouldn't be vaccinated before those in priority groups such as teachers, essential workers, etc. Since many of the study volunteers are young and healthy, it also seems unfair for them to cut in line for a vaccine while healthcare workers and others at high risk are still waiting their turn, she said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=406003,"Rep. Cuellar Votes to Increase Economic Impact Payments to $2,000",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar Votes to Increase Economic Impact Payments to $2,000 Washington, D.C.Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) voted for the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act of 2020 to increase the amount of money struggling Americans receive in a second round of direct payments to $2,000. Millions of Americansare struggling to put food on the table, to pay their rent or mortgage, or to keep up with medical bills that they have accumulated over this difficult year, said Congressman Cuellar. I voted to pass the CASH Act to put $2,000 into the pockets of Americans in need and help alleviate some of the economic hardship they are currently facing. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to bring this important legislation to the floor before the legislative session ends. As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for the additional support that Americans require as we continue to battle the COVID-19 crisis. After the President changed his mind last week and decided to support Democrats' call for increasing direct payments to $2,000, HouseDemocrats immediately went to the Floor to askfor Unanimous Consent to bring a stand-alone bill to increase the payments. On Christmas Eve, House Republicans blocked the request depriving the American people of the increased $2,000 check that the President supported. The CASH Act: Increases the value of the economic impact payments (EIPs) provided in the end-of-year COVID relief package so that each eligible family member receives $2,000, up from $600. Applies the same, broader eligibility established in the end-of-year package to mixed-status families where one spouse has a Social Security Number (SSN). As specified in the latest COVID relief legislation, these families are eligible for the EIP amount for each family member with an SSN, and can claim the corresponding amount for the first round of economic impact payments when they file their 2020 taxes.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gohmert.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399897,Rep. Gohmert Issues Statement on Pence Lawsuit,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Louie Gohmert,G000552,gohmert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Louie Gohmert (TX-01) released the following statement regarding the lawsuit filed against the Vice President: The 2020 presidential election was one we'd expect to see in a banana republic, not the United States of America. In fact, the rampant fraud and unconstitutional actions that took place were so egregious that seven contested states-- Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, New Mexico, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin all sent dueling slates of electors to Congress. This puts Vice President Mike Pence in a position where some argue he has to choose between morality and the law. That is not the case. It is also critical to note that as many formerly in the mainstream media, now the Alt-Left media, continue to say that every court has said there is no evidence of fraud. That is disingenuous, deceitful, and flat out dishonest. The truth is that no court so far has had the morality and courage to allow evidence of fraud to be introduced in front of it. We continue to hold out hope that there is a federal judge who understands that the fraud that stole this election will mean the end of our republic, and this suit would insure that the Vice-President will only accept electors legitimately and legally elected. There must be an opportunity for a day in court when fraud was this prevalent. It is for this reason that I and other plaintiffs have filed a complaint for expedited declaratory and emergency injunctive relief to seek judgement from the court on the Vice President's authority when presiding over the Senate during the Joint Session of Congress. We are asking the court to uphold the powers laid out in the United States Constitution which grant the Vice President the exclusive authority and sole discretion in determining which electoral votes to count. As outlined in the filing, the Electoral Count Act is unconstitutional because it directs Vice President Pence to legitimize electoral votes in violation of the Electors Clause and limits or eliminates his Twelfth Amendment authority to determine which slates of electors should be counted and which, if any, may not be counted. This is fundamental because no statute can constitutionally supply rules to the extent that such statute violates the U.S. Constitution. Thanks to spineless politicians, corrupt state officials and a coordinated effort to undermine the will of the American people in favor of business as usual in the D.C. swamp, we now find ourselves in a place where a stolen election becomes just another one of the miscarriages of justice this town refuses to remedy. The D.C. elites want to sweep these electoral injustices under the rug, just as they have done with countless other scandals such as the Russia-collusion hoax, the Biden-Ukrainian quid-pro quo, and Hillary Clinton's mishandling of classified information, to mention only a few. For the sake of the future of our Republic, come January 6th, Vice President Pence must be authorized to uphold the legal votes of millions of Americans and preserve our nation's great experiment in self-governance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=5536,Sen. Cruz Applauds Trump Administration for Providing Emergency Learning Scholarships,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement applauding the administration's move to expand educational opportunity: ""With far too many Democrat officials flexing their authoritarian instincts, millions of families across the country are hurting right now. Arbitrary shutdowns of public and private K-12 schools have left a generation of students behind. I'm grateful the administration has taken this step to provide emergency learning scholarships for students, empowering parents with the resources they need to support their children's education during these unprecedented times. I'll continue working with my colleagues to reopen the economy, and get Americans safely back to work and school."" Read the executive order here. Sen. Cruz has fought to provide American families with the resources needed to provide for their children's public, private, or homeschool education during the COVID-19 pandemic. In July, Sen. Cruz introduced the School Choice Now Act with Sens. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), legislation that ensures all students will return to their pre-pandemic educational institutions. In September, three of Sen. Cruz's education proposals were included in the Senate Republicans' targeted COVID-19 relief bill. Throughout his career, Sen. Cruz has led the fight to expand school choice and educational opportunities for American students. Learn more about his efforts here and here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-al-green-votes-yes-2000-stimulussurvival-checks-american-people,"Congressman Al Green Votes Yes to $2,000 Stimulus/Survival Checks for the American People",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,algreen,https://algreen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – On Monday, December 28, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement after the passage of H.R. 9051: “Tonight’s vote will mark where we stood when the American people needed the government to act. After nine months of an economic and health crisis that has gripped the nation, leaving many jobless, threatening homelessness and exposure to this deadly coronavirus, House Democrats and Republicans voted to put money in the pockets of Americans at a time when they desperately need it,” Congressman Al Green stated. “By voting to increase direct stimulus payments to $2,000, we do more than stimulate the economy; we do the essential task of our government by helping those suffering from a pandemic-induced economic crisis survive.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://algreen.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-al-green-votes-yes-override-president-trumps-harmful-ndaa-veto,Congressman Al Green Votes Yes to Override President Trump’s Harmful NDAA Veto,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,algreen,https://algreen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – On Monday, December 28, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement after voting ‘YES’ to overriding President Trump’s veto of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “By overriding the President’s veto of the NDAA, we have done more than send a message to the President that bipartisanship can prevail. We have in fact sent a message to our troops that we will protect them not only while they are on the battlefield; we will protect them when they return to the home front,” Congressman Al Green stated. “It is our duty to assure them that we will do all that we can to provide them with more than the weaponry needed to win wars; we must provide them with good housing, good health care, and good pay when they are serving on active duty as well as good housing, good health care, educational opportunities, and good jobs when they leave active duty. This is the least a grateful nation can do for those who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice because, in truth, either we will protect our protectors, or we won’t have protectors to protect us.” Congressman Green – who in a Christmas Eve press conference indicated his readiness to return to Washington, D.C., and cast his vote to override President Trump’s veto – added, “A successful veto of this bill would have meant: risking family leave for our civilian VA employees; foregoing a 3% increase in pay for our troops; losing suicide prevention and resilience resources; upholding the memorialization on military bases of the legacies of men who fought to defend our nation’s original sin – slavery. Allowing this veto to prevail would only harm our nation’s veterans and active duty personnel and would contradict the ideals our nation fights abroad to uphold.” “Our veterans and active duty personnel deserve more, and it is our government’s duty to deliver.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-votes-yes-2000-stimulussurvival-checks-american-people,"Congressman Al Green Votes Yes to $2,000 Stimulus/Survival Checks for the American People",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On Monday, December 28, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement after the passage of H.R. 9051: Tonight's vote will mark where we stood when the American people needed the government to act. After nine months of an economic and health crisis that has gripped the nation, leaving many jobless, threatening homelessness and exposure to this deadly coronavirus, House Democrats and Republicans voted to put money in the pockets of Americans at a time when they desperately need it, Congressman Al Green stated. By voting to increase direct stimulus payments to $2,000, we do more than stimulate the economy; we do the essential task of our government by helping those suffering from a pandemic-induced economic crisis survive. Congressman Green added, The President has indicated that he will sign H.R. 9051, Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020, into law. The only question left to be answered is will the Senate give hardworking Americans the same kind of help given to the very wealthy by way of tax breaks, or will the Senate conclude that the wealthy need more to do more and that workers in need can do more with less?",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-votes-yes-override-president-trump%E2%80%99s-harmful-ndaa-veto,Congressman Al Green Votes Yes to Override President Trumps Harmful NDAA Veto,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On Monday, December 28, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement after voting YES' to overriding President Trump's veto of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): By overriding the President's veto of the NDAA, we have done more than send a message to the President that bipartisanship can prevail. We have in fact sent a message to our troops that we will protect them not only while they are on the battlefield; we will protect them when they return to the home front, Congressman Al Green stated. It is our duty to assure them that we will do all that we can to provide them with more than the weaponry needed to win wars; we must provide them with good housing, good health care, and good pay when they are serving on active duty as well as good housing, good health care, educational opportunities, and good jobs when they leave active duty. This is the least a grateful nation can do for those who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice because, in truth, either we will protect our protectors, or we won't have protectors to protect us. Congressman Green who in a Christmas Eve press conference indicated his readiness to return to Washington, D.C., and cast his vote to override President Trump's veto added, A successful veto of this bill would have meant: risking family leave for our civilian VA employees; foregoing a 3% increase in pay for our troops; losing suicide prevention and resilience resources; upholding the memorialization on military bases of the legacies of men who fought to defend our nation's original sin slavery. Allowing this veto to prevail would only harm our nation's veterans and active duty personnel and would contradict the ideals our nation fights abroad to uphold. Our veterans and active duty personnel deserve more, and it is our government's duty to deliver.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://crenshaw.house.gov/2020/12/crenshaw-carbon-capture-bills-signed-into-law,Crenshaw Carbon Capture Bills Signed Into Law,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Dan Crenshaw,C001120,crenshaw.house.gov,crenshaw,https://crenshaw.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Two bills introduced by Representative Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) to boost research and development for carbon capture technology were signed into law as part of a year-end spending bill. The LEADING Act and the New Energy Frontier aim to advance carbon capture, a proven technology that helps reduce emissions while protecting American energy independence. ""Americans are tired of being offered a false choice of inaction or economy-crushing regulations when it comes to climate change,"" said Crenshaw. “Texas is already leading the way in carbon capture and these bills allow this innovation to take off across the country, so we can market this technology to the world. These bills are grounded in the fundamental principle that innovation is our best tool to combat climate change while protecting American energy jobs and our economy."" Background Carbon capture uses technology to capture carbon from power plants, allowing cleaner energy production without increasing electricity costs for consumers. Texas companies have already put this technology to productive use.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://crenshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388,Crenshaw Carbon Capture Bills Signed Into Law,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Dan Crenshaw,C001120,crenshaw.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC - Two bills introduced by Representative Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) to boost research and development for carbon capture technology were signed into law as part of a year-end spending bill. The LEADING Act and the New Energy Frontieraim to advance carbon capture, a proven technology that helps reduce emissions while protecting American energy independence. ""Americans are tired of being offered a false choice of inaction or economy-crushing regulations when it comes to climate change,"" said Crenshaw. Texas is already leading the way in carbon capture and these bills allow this innovation to take off across the country, so we can market this technology to the world. These bills are grounded in the fundamental principle that innovation is our best tool to combat climate change while protecting American energy jobs and our economy."" Background Carbon capture uses technology to capture carbon from power plants, allowing cleaner energy production without increasing electricity costs for consumers. Texas companies have already put this technology to productive use. TheLEADING Actdirects the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a program to award competitive grants to certain entities for the capture of carbon dioxide produced during the generation of natural gas-generated power. Under Crenshaw's bill, the DOE must accelerate the development of commercially viable carbon capture technologies to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, enter into cooperative agreements with certain entities to construct and operate carbon capture facilities for natural gas plants, and identify any barriers to the commercial development of carbon capture technologies. The New Energy Frontiertakes this a step further by creating a first of its kind Carbon Innovation Center that will examine solutions to carbon utilization.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://crenshaw.house.gov/press-releases?ID=96D17022-B9FB-49BF-9563-AAE3AB6690CA,Crenshaw Carbon Capture Bills Signed Into Law,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Dan Crenshaw,C001120,crenshaw.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home Media Press Releases Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/doggett-trump-delayed-approval-disgraceful-relief-bill,Doggett on Trump Delayed Approval of Disgraceful Relief Bill,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 28, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 Doggett on Trump Delayed Approval of Disgraceful Relief Bill Washington, D.C. One week ago today, President Trump's designated representative approved the COVID relief bill including $600 in direct payments to eligible Americans. The next day, Trump condemned that bill as a ""disgrace."" Yesterday, he finally signed the same ""disgraceful"" bill. After voting this afternoon to increase relief payments to $2,000, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) released this statement: All that Trump's chaotic delay has accomplished is the denial of one week of unemployment compensation to millions of desperate Americans, unemployed through no fault of their own.Other than a few tweets and harsh words, Trump has done nothing to increase direct relief payments, which the House is approving today over Republican objections and which the Republican Senate Leader will block. ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/doggett-trump-delayed-approval-disgraceful-relief-bill,Doggett on Trump Delayed Approval of “Disgraceful” Relief Bill,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,doggett,https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – One week ago today, President Trump's designated representative approved the COVID relief bill including $600 in direct payments to eligible Americans. The next day, Trump condemned that bill as a ""disgrace."" Yesterday, he finally signed the same ""disgraceful"" bill. After voting this afternoon to increase relief payments to $2,000, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) released this statement: ""All that Trump's chaotic delay has accomplished is the denial of one week of unemployment compensation to millions of desperate Americans, unemployed through no fault of their own. Other than a few tweets and harsh words, Trump has done nothing to increase direct relief payments, which the House is approving today over Republican objections and which the Republican Senate Leader will block."" Follow Congressman Doggett",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-helps-secure-critical-funds-coronavirus-relief-bill,Congressman Gonzalez Helps Secure Critical Funds in Coronavirus Relief Bill,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON On Sunday evening, President Trump signed the bipartisan coronavirus compromise relief bill into law. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) fought for fundsto supportvaccine distribution,maintainunemployment insurance,expandbroadband access, andassist education institutionsinCentral andSouth Texas. Our most important job as members of Congress is to make sure that we take care of the American people.$600 is not enough and this new law lacks funding for state and local governments which will impact how we pay salaries for our law enforcement officers, teachers and frontline workers,said Congressman Gonzalez.While far from perfect,thisbipartisanagreementdoesgive working familiesand small businesses asmalllifeline.We oweit toour frontline workers and all of those impacted by the coronavirus to get this right. Ilook forward to working with the incoming Biden-Harris administration to deliver more relieftothe American people. The agreement includes: Acceleration of vaccine distribution andcombatingthe coronavirus:$69 billion in critically needed funding for COVID-19 testing, contact tracing, vaccines, mental health, and support for health care providers. Included in this funding is $22 billion for testing, contact tracing, surveillance and mitigation, $19 billion for vaccines and therapeutics, including the manufacture, production, and purchase of vaccines, therapeutics and ancillary supplies, and nearly $9 billion in additional funding to support distribution of lifesaving COVID-19 vaccines that will help bring an end to the pandemic. Education and childcare:The agreementprovides$82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms, and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open.Texas is estimated to receivea totalof$7,555,750infunds composed oftheGovernor'sEducation Emergency Fund,Elementary and SecondarySchool Emergency Fund and the Higher EducationEmergency ReliefFund. Delivers More Affordable Broadband Access:The agreement invests $7 billion to increase access to broadband, including a new Emergency Broadband Benefit to helpSouth and Central Texasstudents, families and unemployed workers afford the broadband they need during the pandemic.This includes expanded access for rural communities, with more than $730 million in the expansion of broadband service to provide economic development opportunities and improved education and health care services. Direct payment checks:Congressman Gonzalez was instrumental in securing a new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, also ensuring that mixed-status families receive payments. Strengthened Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit:The agreement helps ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income, preserving these vital income supports for vulnerable families. Supports paid sick leave:The agreement provides a tax credit to support employers offering paid sick leave, based on the Families First framework. Employee Retention Tax Credit:The agreement extends and improves the Employee Retention Tax Credit to help keep workers in the jobs during coronavirus closures or reduced revenue. Enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits:Added a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work. Rental assistance:$25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium. Strong Support for Small Businesses:The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivablePaycheck Protection Program(PPP) loans, dedicates set-asides for very small businesses and lending through community-based lenders like CommunityDevelopment FinanceInstitutions and Minority DepositoryInstitutions, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants, $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions and $20 billion for targetedEconomic Injury Disaster LoanGrants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-vote-favor-additional-assistance-american-people,Congressman Gonzalez to Vote in Favor of Additional Assistance for the American People,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) will vote in favor ofthe stand-aloneCASHAct, which would provide $2,000 checks for fifteen million Americans. Congressman Gonzalez firmly believes that the federal government should have been providing monthly economic impact paymentsto help constituents stay safe and keep food on the tablethroughout the pandemic. A$600checkis not enough, said Congressman Gonzalez. I represent one of the hardest impacted districts in the nation andthey'recounting on us to get this right. This shouldn't be a partisan issue. We need to do the right thing and help the American people through this dark period in ourhistory. Back in May and October, House Democrats passed two bills thatwould have provided$1,200indirect assistance to Americans.Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell repeatedly blocked them fromreceiving an up-or-down votein the Senate. The President changed his mind last week and decided to support Democrats' call for increasing direct payments to $2,000, HouseDemocrats immediately went to the Floor to askfor Unanimous Consent to bring a stand-alone bill to increase the payments. On Christmas Eve, House Republicans blocked the request depriving the American people of the increased $2,000 check that the President agreed to support. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-vote-override-president-s-ndaa-veto,Congressman Gonzalez to Vote to Override Presidents NDAA Veto,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Vicente Gonzalez,G000581,gonzalez.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15)will vote to override the President's veto of the H.R. 6395, the William M.(Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021. Despite the overwhelming bipartisan votes in both the House and Senate, President Trump vetoed thisbill. Congress has enacted bipartisan national defense authorization billsfor 59 years in a row,and if this veto is overridden, it will be 60 consecutive years. President Trump is trying to do all he can to wreak the most havoc and stay relevant on his way out of office, said Congressman Gonzalez. The President has vetoed a pay raise for our troops, vetoed our troops' ability to benefit from the new hazardous duty pay provisions, vetoed enhanced sexual assault prevention and response programs, and vetoed benefits for our Vietnam-era veterans, among other important provisions.This veto must be overridden for our service members and to protect our national security. If the vote succeeds to override the President's veto in the House and Senate. The bipartisan NDAA will: Provide Long-Overdue Benefits to Vietnam-Era Veterans Exposed to Agent Orange:The bill provides long-overdue benefits to Vietnam-Era veterans exposed to Agent Orange, including adding Parkinsonism, bladder cancer, and hypothyroidism to the list of diseases associated with exposure to Agent Orange. Authorize Hazardous Duty Pay for Service Members in Harm's Way:The conference report authorizes the Secretary of Defense to standardize payment of hazardous duty pay for the uniformed services, including the members of the Guard and National Reserve. It also increases Hazardous Duty Pay from $250 to $275 per month. Provide A Pay Raise for the Troops:The conference report authorizes a 3.0 percent increase in basic pay for service members. Strengthen Cybersecurity:The conference report includes extensive provisions to strengthen cybersecurity, including establishing a National Cyber Director within the Executive Office of the President and strengthening the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) at the Department of Homeland Security. Take Steps to Further Protect Military Communities from PFAS:The conference report takes steps to further protect military communities from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including authorizing $1.4 billion for environmental remediation and BRAC accounts which support a range of remediation activities, to include those related to PFAS, at current military installations, formerly utilized defense sites, and installations closed by BRAC. Include the Elijah Cummings Federal Employee Anti-Discrimination Act:The conference report includes the Elijah Cummings Federal Employee Anti-Discrimination Act, passed ty the House in January 2019, which strengthens equal employment opportunity protections for federal employees and strengthens prohibitions against discrimination and retaliation against whistleblowers. NotBackfill of the Military Construction Funds Taken for President's Border Wall:The conference report doesnotauthorize any backfill of military construction funds taken for the President's border wall. Constrain Executive Overreach Relating to Emergency Military Construction Authority and Deployment of Military Personnel to the Southern Border:Theconference report imposes constraints on emergency military construction authority and on the authority of the military to deploy military personnel to the southern border. Improve Identification of Federal Law Enforcement Personnel Responding to Civil Disturbances:The conference report includes a provision requiring each member of a federal law enforcement agency, the Armed Forces, or National Guard responding to a civil disturbance to display visibly the individual's name and name of the individual's organization. Require Improvements in Military Housing:Theconference report takes several steps to improve military housing, including updating minimum health and safety standards for all military base housing, repealing a provision that currently allows DOD to place families in substandard housing units, and requiring DOD to implement Comptroller General recommendations for improvement of military family housing. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kaygranger.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D4EB0681-02ED-4A64-8390-A453EFB8796D,Granger Statement on the National Defense Authorization Act,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Kay Granger,G000377,kaygranger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home Media Press Releases Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kevinbrady.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404981,Brady: President Trump puts Americans first with relief and reforms,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Kevin Brady,B000755,kevinbrady.house.gov,,,legacy,"Brady: President Trump puts Americans first with relief and reforms f t # e Washington, December 28, 2020 Ways and Means Republican Leader Kevin Brady (R-TX-08) released the following statement on the President's signing of thecoronavirus relief package along with the annual spending bill: ""After months of Speaker Pelosi stalling Covid relief ahead of the election, I applaud President Trump's decision to sign this long-overdue relief. This bipartisan bill will succeed in protecting both lives and livelihoods, with more money for small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program, hundreds of billions of dollars in tax cuts for families, and reforms to our unemployment system. ""I am proud that he is also protecting patients by banning surprise medical bills which the Ways & Means Committee has led on, and making permanent the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act medical expense deduction that makes it easier to write off high medical bills. ""With his signature, President Trump is delivering on his promise to put Americans first."" f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-roy-statement-voting-against-cash-act,Rep. Roy statement on voting against the CASH Act,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Chip Roy,R000614,roy.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Chip Roy (TX-21) issued the following statement after voting against H.R. 9051 (the CASH Act) on Monday evening: Today, I voted against the CASH Act because it will saddle our children and grandchildren with an additional $463 billion in debt with payments that are not targeted to those in need nor offset with cuts in unnecessary spending. This does nothing to help small businesses, which have been shutdown by the tyrannical lockdowns of local governments, keep their doors open or their workers employed. Giving checks to those whose income has not been affected is an affront to those whose livelihoods have been been destroyed by government, and it will not change the need to safely reopen America's economy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://roy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-roy-statement-voting-sustain-president-trumps-ndaa-veto,Rep. Roy statement on voting to sustain President Trump's NDAA veto,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Chip Roy,R000614,roy.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Chip Roy (TX-21) issued the following statement after voting to sustain President Trump's veto of the National Defense Authorization Act Monday evening: As I said when I first voted against this bill, it is a blueprint for a military that serves the swamp first and America and her troops last. This bill perpetuates the war in Afghanistan, hamstrings the president's reduction of American troops elsewhere, maintains the status quo of undeclared wars all over the globe, prohibits the reduction of wasteful military spending overseas. It pushes radical leftist social engineering on our warfighters by the creation of a ""Chief Diversity Officer"" at the Pentagon. Our military should be focused on defending the American people and defeating our enemies, not catering to the diversity mob. To make matters even worse, this bill contains potentially ruinous regulatory burdens and mandates for small businesses at a time when they're already being put through the wringer by lockdown orders across the country. Small business owners are already being destroyed by tyrannical lockdowns, adding more destructive regulations from Washington will only make the problem worse. Troop pay raises and bonuses are a good thing, as are helping military families, supporting critical research and vital projects.That's exactly why we owe to our men and women in uniform to pass legislation that gives them what they've earned. Our service members deserve a clear mission focused on destroying America's enemies. Instead, this NDAA perpetuates a status quo that gives them a raw deal. We could debate and vote on all these things like we're supposed to, but the last time we had an open amendment vote on the House floor was 2016. That's unacceptable. President Trump was absolutely right to veto this legislation and I was happy to vote against overriding his veto. Congress should go back to the drawing board and fix this. America's troops and America's taxpayers deserve better than this.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-marc-veasey-tx-33-votes-for-critically-needed-legislation-to,"Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) Votes For Critically Needed Legislation to Increase Economic Impact Payments to $2,000",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Marc A. Veasey,V000131,veasey.house.gov,veasey,https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Marc Veasey joined his colleagues to pass the CASH Act–legislation that would increase economic impact payments to hard-hit Americans to $2,000. Today's vote comes the heels of last week's news that President Trump changed his mind on helping Americans and decided to support Democrats' longstanding call for increasing direct payments to help communities across the country. ""Last week, I was proud to join my colleagues to pass bipartisan COVID-19 relief legislation that will give Americans important immediate emergency relief,"" said Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33). ""While this legislation was a step in the right direction, it fell woefully short of providing suffering Americans the adequate direct payment relief that Our Democratic House majority had long supported. I urge Republicans to join us to pass the CASH Act and help Americans get through this unprecedented crisis.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://vela.house.gov/press-release?ID=113E1915-1E2E-44F2-B6E1-49F313505A71,PRESS RELEASE: Congressman Vela Applauds Passage of Legislation to Increase COVID-19 Relief Checks,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Filemon Vela,V000132,vela.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home Media Press Releases Print Share",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://vela.house.gov/press-release?ID=8CB608D8-67B3-4E87-9BC7-B74EEB9E595C,PRESS RELEASE: Congressman Filemom Vela’s Statement on Vote to Override Trump’s NDAA Veto,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Filemon Vela,V000132,vela.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home Media Press Releases Print Share",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn%E2%80%99s-20-texas-priorities-water-infrastructure-bill-signed-law,Cornyn’s 20 Texas Priorities in Water Infrastructure Bill Signed into Law,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator John Cornyn released the following statement after twenty Texas priorities he advocated for in the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 were signed into law by the President as a part of the omnibus funding bill: We can't prevent natural disasters, but we can prepare for them, said Sen. Cornyn. With the President's signature, twenty different Texas projects will move forward, further protecting Texans from severe flooding and catastrophic storms. Sen. Cornyn's priorities that were included in theWater Resources Development Act of 2020 and are now law are as follows: Authorizes the Houston Ship Channel Expansion Improvement Project. Authorizes the Jefferson County ecosystem restoration project. Authorizes the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Brazos River Floodgates, and Colorado River Locks navigation project. Authorizes the Matagorda Ship Channel Improvement Project in Port Lavaca. Authorizes the Chacon Creek flood risk management project. Authorizes a new feasibility study for the Port Arthur and Orange County flood risk management project, including construction of improvements to interior drainage. Authorizes a feasibility study for the Chocolate Bayou flood risk management project. Authorizes project modifications for the Houston-Galveston Navigation Channels project. Authorizes a feasibility study for thePort of Victoriaflood risk management project. Expedites the completion of the Buffalo Bayou feasibility study for flood risk management. Requires the Secretary of the Army to provide a written status update on efforts to address flooding at Wilson Creek and Sloan Creek in Fairview, Texas. Authorizes project modifications for the Port of Corpus Christi Channel Improvement project. Expedites completion of the Lake Whitney Reallocation Study for the reallocation of water supply storage. Expedites completion of the Aquilla Lake Reallocation Study for the reallocation of water supply storage. Expedites the completion of the Lower Rio Grande River feasibility study for flood risk management, ecosystem restoration, and water supply. Authorizes the USACE to participate in the repair and restoration of the eroding embankment at Lake Waco. Directs the USACE to assist El Paso County with a proposal to modify the authorized funding level for a water related infrastructure project. Assists Harris County Flood Control District in streamlining benefit-cost analyses for projects. Directs the USACE to identify specific engineering and maintenance deficiencies for levees across Texas and the nation, and to describe recommended remedies to correct each deficiency to ensure that critical levee performance is being achieved. Reauthorizes of theRio Grande Environmental Management Programin Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado through 2029.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn%E2%80%99s-energy-innovation-bill-now-law,Cornyn’s Energy Innovation Bill Now Law,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after his Launching Energy Advancement and Development through Innovations for Natural Gas (LEADING) Act was signed into law as a part of the omnibus funding bill: Rather than regulate energy providers into the ground, this law will encourage industry innovation, said Sen. Cornyn. The LEADING Act will lower energy bills for Texans and protect them from the massive costs of alternative energy plans like the Green New Deal, all while protecting our environment long-term. Background on the LEADING Act: The LEADING Act would incentivize research and development of carbon capture technology for natural gas to ensure a reliable, affordable, and environmentally sound energy supply. The LEADING Act will promote the continued use of natural gas so we can keep energy bills low, maintain U.S. energy security, and protect the environment all at the same time. By increasing the use of natural gas and other innovative resources, the United States is leading the world in emissions reduction. Natural gas is now the main source of energy in the United States, generating 35.1% of our electricity in 2018. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects this number to continue to rise for the foreseeable future as more natural gas power plants come online. Natural gas emits 50 to 60 percent less carbon dioxide when combusted in a natural gas power plant compared with other sources. Natural gas supports the deployment of renewable energy, and natural gas power plants can quickly and safely ramp up and down to combat the volatility of renewables. Developing cost-effective carbon capture technology for natural gas power plants will help the United States continue to lower emissions while creating jobs and supporting domestic energy production and security. The Launching Energy Advancement and Development through Innovations for Natural Gas Act would require the Secretary of Energy to establish a program for the research, development, and demonstration of commercially viable technologies for the capture of carbon dioxide produced during the generation of natural gas-generated power. Specifically, the bill would: Require the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a program to develop cost-effective carbon capture technologies for use by natural gas-generating power facilities. By incentivizing research and innovation, the goal is to accelerate development and commercial application of natural gas carbon capture technologies and create a partnership with the private sector for demonstration projects. Encourage DOE to include the participation of National Laboratories, universities, and research facilities, including the National Carbon Capture Center. Require DOE to solicit applications for demonstration projects and submit a report to Congress detailing legislative recommendations, applicant evaluation method, expected goals for technology development, estimations of project costs, and timelines for project construction.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn%E2%80%99s-latino-smithsonian-become-reality,Cornyn’s Latino Smithsonian to Become a Reality,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after his legislation he's worked on for years to authorize the Smithsonian Institution to create a museum honoring American Latinos, the National Museum of the American Latino Act, was signed into law. For decades, Texans have advocated for greater representation of American Latino stories in our nation's capital, and I'm proud to announce that together, we have ensured the National Museum of the American Latino will become a reality, said Sen. Cornyn. Because the President has signed my bill into law, future generations that travel to Washington will be able to learn about the incredible American Latinos who helped build this nation. The National Museum of the American Latino Act builds on nearly 26 years' worth of work in laying the foundation for the establishment of a future museum. Following a 1994 report entitled Willful Neglect' showing the Smithsonian Institution's failure to include the story of the American Latino, the first Congressional bill was introduced in 2003 to study the creation of a museum. In 2008, with Presidential and Congressional leadership, a 23-member Commission was established to study the viability of a museum. In 2011, the Commission's work culminated in a final report that detailed that the creation of a museum on the National Mall was indeed feasible. In 2020, this legislation will act on the Commission's report and put into motion the process of establishing a Latino Museum, similar to those that established other Smithsonian museums.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-bill-blocking-e-cigarette-sales-children-signed-law,Cornyn Bill Blocking E-Cigarette Sales to Children Signed Into Law,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes to Children Act, which would block online sales of electronic cigarettes to children, was signed into law: Children's use of electronic cigarettes has been linked to an increased risk of contracting COVID-19, and this legislation would help curb their access to these products, said Sen. Cornyn. Now that this is signed into law, we can help keep young Americans from developing unhealthy addictions while stopping the spread of the coronavirus. The Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes to Children Act will require e-cigarette online retailers to: Verify the age of customers for all purchases. Require an adult with ID to be present for delivery. Label shipping packages to show they contain tobacco products. Comply with all state and local tobacco tax requirements. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 3 million high schools students used electronic cigarettes in 2018, a 78 percent increase over the previous year. Today, one in five U.S. high school students report using e-cigarettes, which have become the most commonly used tobacco product by youth in the United States. A recent survey published in the American Journal of Health Promotion found that 32 percent of underage e-cigarette users reported purchasing products online, making online sales the single largest source of purchases for underage users. In addition to Senators Cornyn and Feinstein, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Susan Collins (R-ME), David Perdue (R-GA), John Boozman (R-AR), Michael Enzi (R-WY), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Edward Markey (D-MA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Martha McSally (R-AZ), Jack Reed (D-RI), and Pat Roberts (R-KS). The bill is supported by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Lung Association, Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, California Physicians Alliance, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, Children's Health Fund, Go2Foundation for Lung Cancer, National Alliance for Hispanic Health, National Association of Convenience Stores and Society of Independent Gasoline Marketers of America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-klobuchar-relief-bill-independent-live-music-venues-signed-law,"Cornyn, Klobuchar Relief Bill for Independent Live Music Venues Signed Into Law",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statements after the Save Our Stages Act, legislation they authored to provide Small Business Administration grants for independent live music venues, live performance arts organizations, or motion picture theatres affected by COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, was signed into law. These grants would provide financial support necessary to keep venues afloat, pay employees, and preserve a critical economic sector for communities across America. Texas' entertainment venues have endured nearly ten months of lost revenue and empty seats, and they have passionately led the fight to save live music from becoming a thing of the past, said Sen. Cornyn. I'm grateful to my colleagues for helping these cultural landmarks be able to reopen their doors once again, and I'm looking forward to seeing future generations of Texans learn our history through music at the world-class venues and dance halls that call the Lone Star State home. Independent venues were some of the first establishments to close down and will likely be some of the last to open. I refuse to sit by and let the music die, which is why I was proud to introduce the bipartisan Save our Stages Act, Sen. Klobuchar said. This funding will get small entertainment venues the help they need to make ends meet and serve our communities for generations to come. Background: Small live music and entertainment venues have been hard-hit during the coronavirus pandemic, with 90 percent of venue owners, promoters, and bookers reporting they are at risk of closing without additional financial assistance and an estimated $9 billion in losses should ticket sales not resume until 2021. The Save Our Stages Act would: Narrowly define eligibility to ensure only small shuttered and at-risk venues qualify for federal grant funding Direct the SBA to make grants to eligible venues equal to the lesser of either 45 percent of operation costs from calendar year 2019 or $10 million Permit recipients to use grants for essential expenses incurred during the COVID pandemic Require recipients to return remaining funding after one year from the date of disbursement Permit recipients to use grants for rent, utilities, mortgage obligations, PPE procurement, payments to contractors, regular maintenance, administrative costs, state and local taxes, operating leases, and capital expenditures related to meeting state, local, or federal social distancing guidelines Authorize the appropriation of $15 billion for the grant program",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/es/es/content/news/cornyn-el-museo-smithsonian-para-latinos-se-convertir%C3%A1-en-una-realidad,Cornyn: El Museo Smithsonian Para Latinos se Convertirá en una Realidad,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Hoy el senador John Cornyn (R-TX) emiti la siguiente declaracin despus de su proyecto de ley en la que ha trabajado durante aos para autorizar a la Institucin Smithsonian a crear un museo para honrar a los latinoamericanos, La Ley del Museo Nacional del Latinoamericano, se convirti en ley. Durante dcadas, los Texans han abogado por una mayor representacin de las historias de los latinoamericanos en la capital de nuestra nacin, y me enorgullece anunciar que juntos, nos hemos asegurado de que el Museo Nacional del Latinoamericano se convierta en una realidad, dijo el sen. Cornyn. Debido a que el Presidente ha firmado mi proyecto de ley, las generaciones futuras que viajen a Washington podrn aprender sobre los increbles latinoamericanos que ayudaron a construir esta nacin. La Ley del Museo Nacional del Latinoamericano se basa en casi 26 aos de trabajo para sentar las bases para el establecimiento de un futuro museo. A raz de un informe de 1994 titulado Willful Neglect que mostraba el fracaso de la Institucin Smithsonian para incluir la historia del latinoamericano, se introdujo el primer proyecto de ley del Congreso en 2003 para estudiar la creacin de un museo. En 2008, con el liderazgo presidencial y congresal, se establece una comisin de 23 miembros para estudiar la viabilidad de un museo. En 2011, el trabajo de la comisin culmin en un informe final que detallaba que la creacin de un museo en el National Mall era realmente viable. En 2020, este proyecto de ley actuar sobre el informe de la comisin y pondr en marcha el proceso de establecer un museo latinoamericano, como los que establecieron otros museos de la Institucin Smithsonian.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fletcher.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2882,Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Statement on Status of Year-End Appropriations and COVID Relief Legislation,2020-12-24,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lizzie Fletcher,F000468,fletcher.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Statement on Status of Year-End Appropriations and COVID Relief Legislation Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) issued the following statement: At the end of this difficult year, this Christmas week brought hope to millions as Congress reached a compromise nine months in the making to get additional assistance to families in need across America. Although the compromise legislation did not meet all needs, it did provide some hope and certainty to millions who need it at this moment. Now, the President has rejected the work of the representatives of the people as well as of his own negotiators. This gamesmanship at this moment of great uncertainty and great need is unconscionable. I support increasing the direct payments to families in need. This morning, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Neal introduced the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act of 2020 to increase the amount of a second round of direct payments to $2,000. While the effort to pass the CASH Act in the House of Representatives was blocked this morning, I will vote in favor of this bill when the House meets to consider it on Monday. With this common-sense solution to the President's stated concern about the direct payments to Americans, I hope that the President will now sign the COVID relief and omnibus appropriations bill to address many of the pandemic's devastating impacts and keep the government functioning and funded at this critical time.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://williams.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/a-season-of-hope,A Season of Hope,2020-12-24,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,,,legacy,"Though we've faced tough years in American history and this one is certainly no different, we have always celebrated Christmas and the meaning of this season. It is a time to thank the Lord for His blessings during the year and a time to remind ourselves we're a nation of Judeo-Christian principles that our founders fought to secure deep in our foundation. Often during the usual hustle and bustle of the season, we forget the true meaning of Christmas that was brought to earth on a holy night over two thousand years ago:the gift of Hopewas given to mankind to save us for all eternity. One of my favorite verses in the Bible is Luke 6:38, which says, Give, and it shall be given unto you."" The word ""give"" is active; Jesus is telling us that when we are generous toward those around us, we will in turn reap reward, similar to what is known as the 'Golden Rule.' We have an opportunity every day to do better than the one before, and it is our responsibility to strive to imitate the goodness and love of our Savior toward our neighbors. I can think of no better year in recent memory when we have the distinct opportunity to share the message of hope through our generosity or simply giving of our time, whether virtually or in person. We also look toward this next year filled with the hope of recovery and new growth. While the challenges we face may seem insurmountable,the bond that unites us as Americans will always prevail. To all of our military servicemen and women and their families, thank you for protecting our communities so we can sleep safe at night. Our prayers are with you as you celebrate this season away from home. To our front line workers who will spend these days healing and caring for patients, we thank you for your selflessness. My goal as your Congressman is to represent the 25th District of Texas to the very best of my ability and I look forward to serving you in this next year. I pray you all have a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! In God we trust, Roger Williams Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=403000,Burgess: Trump granted the Slough familys Christmas wish,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, put out the following statement after President Trump issued a pardon for TX-26 resident Paul Slough. This is a Christmas miracle for the Slough family, said Burgess. Paul, along with three other team members, were sentenced to a mandatory minimum of thirty years in prison after being found guilty of firearms offenses under 18 U.S.C. 924 (c), a statute enacted in the 1980s to reduce violence during the height of the war on drugs. It is unthinkable that civilian contractors, who are required to carry weapons by the U.S. government to protect U.S. personnel overseas, have faced unintended consequences of this statute.In 2007, Paul Slough and his team members, employed as State Department contractors during Operation Iraqi Freedom, were escorting a U.S. diplomatic convoy through Baghdad when an oncoming suspicious vehicle failed to stop. The team opened fire to defend the convoy, unfortunately resulting in 14 Iraqi deaths after engaging in a fire fight. These brave men were sentenced for discharging their firearms under a statute that was never meant to apply to U.S. federal government employees defending Americans overseas. To ensure this never happens again, I introduced legislation to exempt overseas federal contractors from mandatory minimum sentencing requirements under 18 U.S.C. 924(c).I appreciate President Trump for righting this wrong, and I hope that Congress will take up my legislation to ensure this doesn't happen to other Americans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=403001,Burgess introduces legislation to promote U.S. energy leadership,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Burgess introduces legislation to promote U.S. energy leadership Washington, D.C. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, introduced the American Nuclear Leadership Commission Act. Consumers are seeking energy sources with lower emissions, and nuclear power must be part of that mix. Right now, America's leadership in civilian nuclear power is being challenged by Russia and China who want to corner the market. Burgess said. This legislation will create a bipartisan commission to examine the future of the civilian nuclear power industry in the United States and investigate the challenges ahead. I believe this commission will shine a spotlight on those challenges and provide the answers necessary to ensure our nation's continued leadership in nuclear energy.Bill Summary: This legislation creates a bipartisan commission within the Department of Energy (DOE) to study the status of the civilian nuclear power industry today and in the future. The bill directs the commission to explore: How a nuclear reactor is brought from development to commercialization Potential market opportunities for advanced reactors The problems of the nuclear fuel cycle from beginning to end The industrial capacity of the US to design and build nuclear reactors The competitiveness of US nuclear reactors in export markets How advanced reactor designed may be able to reduce the cost of nuclear power The environmental benefits of civilian nuclear power What regulations and laws exist that limit the expansion of civilian nuclear power This commission will be chaired by the DOE Secretary, requires evenly split party membership, and would last up to 2 years. Once the commission completes its study, it will provide a report to Congress on its findings and provide policy recommendations to address obstacles to America's nuclear leadership in the 21st Century.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405995,Rep. Cuellars Statement on Vote to Increase Economic Impact Payments,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar's Statement on Vote to Increase Economic Impact Payments Washington, D.C.Congressman Henry Cuellar released the following statement in support of a vote by Unanimous Consent to increase the economic impact payments to $2,000: House Democrats and I have been fighting for more direct payments to the American people since the beginning. In May, I voted for the Heroes Act, which provided up to $6,000 in direct payments per household, because we recognized these payments are a critical lifeline during this crisis. However, during negotiations, Republicans refused to say the highest number that the President would accept for checks and would never go above $600 and in some cases $500. Since the President has agreed with House Democrats to increase direct payments to $2000, we now are waiting for Republican leadership to support our Unanimous Consent request. Families across the country are still hurting and they deserve additional relief immediately. I am ready to increase direct payments to save the lives and livelihoods of the American people. I am calling on my colleagues across the aisle to join. Enough time has been wasted. It's time for action- let's vote.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gohmert.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399894,CJWC Members Celebrate President Trumps Pardons for the Biden Four,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Louie Gohmert,G000552,gohmert.house.gov,,,legacy,"**For Immediate Release** December 23, 2020 Contact: Lauren McLaughlin Lauren.McLaughlin@mail.house.gov CJWC Members Celebrate President Trump's Pardons for the Biden Four Members of the Congressional Justice for Warriors Caucus released the following statements in light of the wonderful news of President Trump's pardons for U.S. veterans and former government security contractors Dustin Heard, Evan Liberty, Nick Slatten and Paul Slough: President Donald J. Trump has delivered the most wonderful Christmas gift in the form of pardons for the members of the Biden Four. These decorated veterans served their country honorably and put themselves in harm's way to defend U.S. diplomats only to be repaid by our government with a corrupted judicial process and prison sentences. I am so thankful that President Trump exercised his superb judgment in granting relief for these menan action that I do not think any other president would have had the political or moral courage to do. To Dustin, Evan, Nick and Paul: I wish you the most blessed and merriest of Christmases as you are reunited with your loved ones. -Rep. Louie Gohmert (TX-01), Chairman The Obama Administration, in its zeal to attack America first, railroaded four of our Iraq warriors, Dustin Heard, Evan Liberty, Nick Slatten, and Paul Slough. Convicted by perjurious witnesses and corrupt prosecutors, they were each granted full pardons by President Donald J. Trump. These decorated veterans will now get to spend Christmas at home with their families. Welcome home boys. -Rep. Paul Gosar (AZ- 4) The Congressional Justice for Warriors Caucus advocates for unjustly convicted and confined servicemembers and military contractors who made split second decisions in combat situations and found themselves second guessed by unscrupulous and over-zealous prosecutors. The Biden Four are among the most egregiously maligned and abused of all. They are all military veterans and were serving as Blackwater security teams. Forty-two Blackwater security personnel were killed protecting high value targets, yet Blackwater never lost a single person under their protection. Four of the 42 were killed on the road to Umm Qasr where they had escorted me the day before. I remember their faces to this day. It pains me that the Biden Four have been put through so much by second-guessing politicians like Biden and Hillary who persecuted them and ginned up additional prosecutions. We as Americans think of our warriors as always going on offense, but in this case, they were attacked and acted in self-defense. Unfortunately, they were aggressively prosecuted by overzealous government prosecutors, and then by Hillary and Biden. If ever there was a justifiable set of pardons, President Trump has delivered it tonight. God Bless President Trump for righting these egregious wrongs and Merry Christmas to the Biden Four! -Rep. Steve King (IA-4) I commend President Trump for his action tonight to pardon the Biden Four-- Dustin, Evan, Nicholas, and Paul. Following a firefight that resulted in the tragic death of a number of Iraqis, the media shamelessly portrayed these men as killers. Yet, the corruption and prosecutorial misconduct that has since been uncovered paints a very different picture. These Americans were abandoned by their own government after an emergency response to secure the safe return of an American diplomat turned deadly. Looking forward, I hope the Congressional Justice for Warriors Caucus will continue to work on behalf of unfairly convicted patriots like the Biden 4 and others who should have the same Constitutional protections that are available to every other American."" -Rep. Bill Flores (TX-17) Thank you, President Trump, for standing up for these four veterans and righting this wrong. I am thrilled they can now be with their families for Christmas. We owe our military and veterans a debt we can never repay. -Rep. Daniel Webster (FL-11)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=5535,"Sen. Cruz: 'The Prince of Peace, Born in Bethlehem, Came So That We May Know Him and His Enduring Love, Joy, and Redemption'",2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HOUSTON, Texas - U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement in advance of Christmas Day: ""This Christmas, as so many families grapple with the challenges posed by the coronavirus, it is more important than ever to find renewed hope in celebrating the birth of Jesus. The Prince of Peace, born in Bethlehem, came so that we may know Him and his enduring love, joy, and redemption. May this Christmas be a joyous and hopeful season where we reflect on the promise of salvation. ""Heidi and I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. May God continue to bless the great state of Texas and the United States of America."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/pelosi-dear-colleague-unanimous-consent-request-increase-economic-impact,PELOSI -- Dear Colleague on Unanimous Consent Request to Increase Economic Impact Payments,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Democratic Colleague, Just when you think you have seen it all, last night, the President said that he would possibly veto the bicameral agreement negotiated between Republicans and Democrats. He said he would do so, unless the economic impact payments were increased to $2,000. In the bipartisan negotiations, Leader Schumer and I repeatedly asked Republicans what would be the highest number the President would accept for direct payments, and they responded with Sphinx-like silence. In the negotiations, they would never go above $600 and in some cases, proposed $500. Yesterday, I said that Democrats would go to the Floor and ask for Unanimous Consent to bring up a standalone bill to increase the payments. To do so requires the agreement of the Republican Leader. This agreement is necessary in the House and in the Senate. If the President truly wants to join us in $2,000 payments, he should call upon Leader McCarthy to agree to our Unanimous Consent request. We are scheduled to go in for a pro forma session tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. We are awaiting word from Leader Hoyer as to whether Leader McCarthy will agree to or reject our Unanimous Consent request. The entire country knows that it is urgent for the President to sign this bill, both to provide the coronavirus relief and to keep government open. Let us pray! Nancy",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kevinbrady.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404980,A Win for the American People,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Kevin Brady,B000755,kevinbrady.house.gov,,,legacy,"A Win for the American People House Republicans ensure more help for families, workers and small businesses f t # e Washington, December 23, 2020 This week, after months of delay by Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats, Congress finally passed a much-needed COVID-19 relief package. Even though Republicans have been negotiating in good faith for months, Speaker Pelosi admitted she delayed passage in order to score political points. But now, thanks to hard work by House Republicans, more help is on the way! This package willprovide a lifeline to workers and small businesses, help reopen the economy, make Operation Warp Speed vaccines available, and much more. Highlights from the COVID Relief Deal This bill will Provide $325 billion to extendthe successful Paycheck Protection Program and support small businesses. Provide $28 billion in funding for vaccine production and distribution. Include $82 billion for the Education Stabilization Fund to help schools safely reopen. Provide $13 billion in direct assistance for farmers and ranchers. Distributedirect payments to the American people. Ban surprise medical bills. Includetax relief for American families. Assist local hospitals and doctors and provide funding for rural healthcare providers. Protect against unemployment fraud. Provide funds for substance abuse and mental health services. Help to support struggling airlines and the thousands of furloughed airline workers. Includepro-life provisions to ensure taxpayer dollars are not used for abortions or abortion services. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=402999,Burgess: Congress can do better,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement after Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power of the purse. It is our responsibility to ensure the federal government is funded, but we must do so thoughtfully, said Burgess. Yesterday afternoon when I entered the Rules Committee for what was to be the only hearing on the combined appropriations and relief bills, I was shocked there was not a copy of the legislation available for the Majority or Minority Members. This was a 5,500 page bill that we were going to vote on in less than five hours. There were many parts of the bill - in fact some policies I have fought for, for decades - which were reasonable, and I could support. I am grateful for the diligent work by members and staff who put in long hours to get a reasonable result, but ultimately the process was so flawed that I could not support the final product. There were also several items that could have had a deleterious effect on our doctors and health professionals. The labors of our front-line medical personal should not be rewarded with reduction of reimbursement, but I was concerned this would be the inevitable result. In my 20 years in Congress, I have watched additions to legislation at the last minute that ultimately prove detrimental. The 26th District of Texas sent me here to represent them, and I need to ensure that what I am voting on does just that. My hope is that with the beginning of a new year and a new Congress, legislators will get back to the business of legislating through regular order. It is irresponsible to push off our work on behalf of the American people to the point that we are scrambling at the end of the year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405984,Rep. Cuellar Secures Passage of Reauthorization of Donations Acceptance Program,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) secured the passage of the Donations Acceptance Program Reauthorization Act of 2020 in both the House and Senate. The Donations Acceptance Program (DAP) enables U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) to explore, create and facilitate partnerships for improvements on port of entry infrastructures and technology, with the investment made by the local entities. Congressman Cuellar was able to pass this legislation as part of the emergency coronavirus relief and 2021 spending package. The Donations Acceptance Program is a critical method to invest and expedite improvements at ports of entry in the United States, said Congressman Cuellar. I established this program in 2013 and worked hard to expand it to create jobs, support trade industries and tourism, reduce border wait times, and increase border security. This reauthorization will only further expand our economic growth and security throughout our nation by making necessary improvements to our ports of entry. As the representative of the busiest land port of entry, I am committed to improving our infrastructure to improve the safe and efficient flow of legitimate trade and travel. The Border Trade Alliance offers tremendous thanks to Congressman Cuellar and Senator Cornyn for their successful bipartisan leadership to extend the DAP program that has proven to be an effective tool for the public and private sectors to work together to modernize border infrastructure, Border Trade Alliance President Ms. Britton Mullen said. We look forward to working with Congress and the administration over the next year to strengthen this already successful program. The reauthorization of DAP will extend to December 16, 2021. The goal of DAP is to work with communities along the border to help equip CBP's frontline officers and trade specialists with the tools and capabilities they need to operate more effectively. Accepted donations may be used in support of a wide array of CBP operations and may include new lanes, inspection booths, inspection technologies, intellectual property rights enforcement tools, and more. In 2013, Congressman Cuellar successfully added legislative language in Appropriations Act that authorized a pilot program in which CBP could enter into agreements to receive donations of property or non-personal services at ports of entry. In 2016, Congressman Cuellar and Senator John Cornyn passed H.R. 875, the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act of 2016, which built on this pilot program. Since its inception, the DAP has entered into 40 partnerships, leveraging investments worth $219 million in POEs, primarily on the southwest border.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://flores.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401353,Congressman Bill Flores Statement Regarding Consolidated Appropriations Act,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Bill Flores,F000461,flores.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representative Bill Flores (R-Texas) issued the following statement regarding the passage of H.R. 133, the Consolidated Appropriations Act to fund the government through fiscal year 2021 and provide relief to hardworking American families and businesses who have been adversely affected by COVID-19:Despite delays and distractions by Democrats, H.R. 133 is a clear victory for Republicans and President Trump. It is also a stunning defeat for Nancy Pelosi, who held up aid to small businesses and workers, delayed funding for vaccine procurement and development, all in an effort to hurt President Trump. Her strategy backfired instead, Republicans were able to secure almost all of our priorities in this legislation, while denying Democrats their socialist defund, dismantle, and destroy wish list. Some of the major accomplishments in this legislation include: $900 billion in total COVID-19 relief for Americans. This includes an extension of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the extremely successful program created by Congress which has saved an estimated 50 million jobs nationwide. Allows businesses that previously received a PPP loan to apply again, while making it easier for businesses to deduct the expenses paid with loan proceeds. Improves the distribution of vaccines approved as a result of Operation Warp Speed. It includes $20 billion for the purchase of vaccines to ensure that any American who wants a COVID-19 vaccination can get one for free. Includes $48 billion for vaccine development, and an additional $20 billion to assist states with COVID-19 testing. Continues increased unemployment benefits through March of next year and includes a stimulus payment of $600 each to Americans making below $75,000. Fully funds our military and domestic programs, including a 3 percent pay raise for our troops, and $1.375 billion in new funding for the border wall to keep our country safe and secure. Protects American families from surprise medical billing. Includes 21st-Century Energy provisions, providing for affordable energy and reduced emissions. Preserves pro-life protections and other conservative provisions that Democrats tried to remove, such as prohibiting federal funds from being used to pay for abortions. Finally, it blocks Democrat demands to bust earlier bipartisan budget-cap and spending agreements. The legislation also includes provisions and/or funding to address over 60 of my priorities to help the 17th Congressional District of Texas, including the following key examples: Report language and funding to provide for the Army Corps of Engineers to cooperate with the City of Waco to make crucial repairs to Lake Shore Drive. The Army Corps of Engineers, despite owning the land around Lake Shore Drive, did not have clear statutory authority to make repairs to avoid potentially catastrophic damage to this road and surrounding area. Continued levels of enhanced funding for the Biomedical Advanced Research Development Authority (BARDA) which is responsible for accelerated pandemic vaccine manufacturing resources and activities at Texas A&M University. Increases in funding for basic research to assist our research-oriented universities including those in Central Texas and the Brazos Valley. The bipartisan Advanced Nuclear Fuel Availability Act, which establishes a public-private solution to develop, manufacture, and transport High Assay, Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU) the next generation fuel required to power the advanced nuclear reactors of tomorrow. These important advancements will ensure that zero-emission nuclear power continues to provide a meaningful portion of our country's always-on, baseload' electricity used in our homes and businesses. Report language instructing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to assist counties and communities, such as eastern McLennan County, meet revised EPA clean water standards. $390 million for new Multi-Mission Vessels for Texas A&M University Galveston and other state maritime academies to train our next generation of maritime workers and improve safety in the Gulf of Mexico. Finally, just as important as what's in the bill is what was not included. It does not include hundreds of billions of dollars to bail out blue states who have mismanaged their budget for decades to pay off their union bosses, checks for illegal immigrants, or a massive federal prisoner release. It eliminated a potential slush fund to states by preventing the Federal Reserve from providing emergency lending by future White House administrations. Finally, it did not include Democrat demands for more abortions on-demand, decreased funding for our servicemen and women, and efforts to defund police.Despite the many wins, the legislation we voted on yesterday is an example of continuing dysfunction in Washington. Legislative relief for Americans who are struggling because of COVID should have passed months ago. Unfortunately, Nancy Pelosi decided that she would rather withhold the aid to hurt President Trump. Because of this strategy, tens of thousands of Americans have lost their jobs, their livelihoods, their businesses, and their lives. Americans should never forget how Speaker Pelosi and her Democrat colleagues deemed that their families and paychecks were less important than the election of a Democrat President. Nancy Pelosi's deliberate obstruction also forced Congress to compress a legislative timeline that would normally take months into a matter of days right before Christmas. Facing a government shutdown, Congress had to pass multiple critical pieces of legislation that were rolled into a huge package and negotiated behind closed doors, with no chance for debate or amendment. This is the Washington Swamp that disgusts every American. It forces Members of Congress to vote on legislation that was finalized only hours earlier. The rushed process also means that there may be critical errors and mistakes that will have to be addressed moving forward.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=5531,"Sen. Cruz: Badly Needed COVID Relief Should Have Passed as Standalone Bill Months Ago, Not in Taxpayer Funded Spending Spree",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement after voting against the multi-trillion dollar end-of-year spending package: ""Though the mainstream media and lobbyists will hail this legislative monstrosity as a tremendous victory, make no mistake: urgently-needed COVID-19 relief was tied to a $1.4 trillion wasteful end-of-year spending bill and countless pet projects that will escape close scrutiny because three times, congressional Democrats rejected good faith efforts to pass targeted relief. ""With new shutdown orders targeting small businesses and disproportionately affecting minority and low-income workers, many Americans remain out of work and unable to make ends meet. According to one study, one in four small business owners will close their doors if economic conditions don't improve soon. Had this bill been solely focused on re-opening the economy, getting Americans back to work, and jump starting a recovery, it would have had my enthusiastic support. For example, the final COVID-19 package rejects Democrats' misguided attempts to bail out blue states' underfunded pension plans and replenishes the Paycheck Protection Program - which will go a long way in helping small businesses keep their doors open and employees on the payroll. ""It also includes funding for vaccine procurement and distribution, and will support states in their efforts to expand testing. With two vaccines already distributed to Americans across the country, these are meaningful developments as we work to defeat this virus, re-open our country, and continue to grow our economy. But they should have been passed in a standalone bill months ago, instead of in a bloated package thrown together during the annual year-end taxpayer funded spending spree. ""Unfortunately, this behemoth did not end there. ""Generations of Americans are already stuck with a $27 trillion national debt, and Washington politicians are indiscriminately adding to the tab. This nearly 5,600-page spending package fails to make any meaningful spending cuts and instead advances the interests of the radical Left, special interests, and swamp lobbyists, with funding going towards expanding authority for more H-2B visas for foreign workers while a near record number of Americans remain unemployed, as well as laying the ground work for Democrats to implement the Green New Deal' by claiming a need' to meet the power demand in the United States through clean, renewable, or zero-emission energy sources. ""Unfortunately, in addition to badly needed coronavirus relief, Democrats held hostage important national security and military measures to pass their liberal wish list, including support for weapons systems like the F-35 and B-21 bomber programs, which I have consistently fought for, as well as missile defense technologies that we work with our Israeli allies to develop for our mutual safety. Finally, this legislation included several measures related to international diplomacy that I have championed, from ensuring that our allies in Europe, Middle East, and Western Hemisphere have the resources to defend themselves, all the way to requiring that the State Department revisit its guidelines that undermine our Taiwanese allies by, among others things, prohibiting them from displaying symbols of their sovereignty. ""I would have also enthusiastically voted for the Water Resource Development Act, which is critical for the construction of the Port of Houston's ship channel expansion project, a port that supports roughly 3.2 million jobs. ""These are important proposals and they should not have been muddied by this multi-trillion dollar mess. Like I've said before, this haphazard spending process is yet another example of the brokenness of Congress. ""Far too many parents also remain unable to send their children to school. An entire generation of students' education has been put on hold, as children and teachers alike have been left to navigate the challenges of distance learning. And yet this bill does nothing to expand school choice or empower families with the flexibility they need to support their children's education. In fact, just the opposite - in a bad sign for America's kids and the state of the U.S. education system during the pandemic, this bill delays NAEP, the national school assessment testing. ""Simply put, Democrats exploited the need for relief to advance their political agenda instead of working on legislation that puts our nation on the path to recovery. Now more than ever, our focus should be on providing parents and families support for their children's education as they're struggling with school disruptions during this pandemic, empowering small businesses to re-hire their employees and re-open their doors by cutting taxes and rolling back burdensome federal regulations, and reining in out of control spending that further exacerbates the economic challenges we're currently facing. These are the priorities I'll continue to fight for in the Senate, because these are the priorities of the American people."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=5532,Sen. Cruz Calls on Trump Administration to Submit Obama-Biden Iran Nuclear Deal & Paris Climate Agreement to Senate as Formal Treaties,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, this week called on the Trump administration to submit both the Iran Nuclear Deal and Paris Climate Agreement to the Senate as formal treaties. In a letter to President Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Sen. Cruz slammed the Obama-Biden administration for undermining the Senate's constitutional role in both the Iran Nuclear Deal and Paris Agreement negotiations, writing: ""Multiple previous administrations [...] have undermined the Senate's constitutional role by negotiating significant international agreements and then refusing to submit them to the Senate for its advice and consent. Most recently-and most egregiously-President Obama refused to submit either the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (the Iran Deal'), or the United Nations Paris Climate Agreement (the Paris Agreement') to the Senate as a treaty."" He continued: ""These agreements could and should have been submitted as treaties given their sweeping scope and immense implications for American foreign and domestic policy. The Paris Agreement, for example, was lauded as the most ambitious climate change agreement in history.' The Iran Deal, meanwhile, was situated as the most consequential foreign policy debate that our country has had since the invasion of Iraq.'"" He concluded, urging the Trump administration to submit both agreements to the Senate as formal treaties: ""Your administration has rightly changed course as a matter of substantive policy by withdrawing from both the Iran Deal and the Paris Agreement. This was a great accomplishment for the American people. ""I urge you now also to remedy the harm done to the balance of powers by submitting the Iran Deal and the Paris Agreement to the Senate as treaties. Only by submitting them to the Senate will the Senate be able to satisfy its constitutional role to provide advice and consent in the event any future administration attempts to revive these dangerous deals."" Sen. Cruz has led the fight against the Obama-Biden Iran Nuclear Deal since it was first negotiated. Since the U.S. withdrawal, he has pushed for an end to oil waivers, an end to nuclear waivers, and for invoking the U.N. snapback mechanism to restore international sanctions on Iran. In September, Sen. Cruz applauded the Trump administration for enforcing snapback sanctions on Iran and finalizing the end of the Iran Nuclear Deal. Learn more about his fight here. In 2017, Sen. Cruz urged President Trump to act on his campaign promise to ""rip up"" the Paris Climate Agreement in an op-ed on CNN.com, where he wrote, ""We simply cannot afford an agreement that puts thousands of Americans out of work, increases their energy costs and devastates our core industries."" Read Sen. Cruz's op-ed here. Shortly thereafter, President Trump announced the U.S. would withdraw from the agreement. Read the full letter here and below. December 21, 2020 The Honorable Donald J. Trump President of the United States The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, D.C. 20500 The Honorable Michael Pompeo Secretary of State U.S. Department of State 2201 C. Street NW Washington, D.C. 20230 Dear President Trump and Secretary Pompeo, The Constitution grants the Senate a significant, unique, and indispensable role in developing American foreign policy through treaties. Specifically, Article II, Section 2, Clause 2, provides that the President ""shall have the Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two-thirds of the Senators present concur."" Multiple previous administrations, however, have undermined the Senate's constitutional role by negotiating significant international agreements and then refusing to submit them to the Senate for its advice and consent. Most recently-and most egregiously-President Obama refused to submit either the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (the ""Iran Deal""), or the United Nations Paris Climate Agreement (the ""Paris Agreement"") to the Senate as a treaty. These agreements could and should have been submitted as treaties given their sweeping scope and immense implications for American foreign and domestic policy. The Paris Agreement, for example, was lauded as the ""most ambitious climate change agreement in history."" The Iran Deal, meanwhile, was situated as ""the most consequential foreign policy debate that our country has had since the invasion of Iraq."" That is why numerous Senators demanded that the administration submit both agreements to the Senate for advice and consent. Thirty-four Senators co-sponsored a resolution ""expressing the sense of Congress that the President should submit the Paris climate change agreement to the Senate for its advice and consent."" Because Obama refused to do so, Senator Risch, the current Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, later issued a joint statement with Senator Crapo stating: ""There are many reasons the Paris Climate Accord was a bad deal. Not the least of which is that it was agreed to unilaterally by the Obama Administration, violating our Constitution's requirement that all treaties be passed by a two-thirds vote in the Senate."" Similarly, in an interview addressing the Iran Deal, Senator Risch stated that President Obama ""needed to submit it to the United States Senate for ratification under the Constitution. It was a treaty."" The only reason the Obama administration refused to submit these agreements to the Senate as treaties was that it knew that the agreements were deeply unpopular and doomed for defeat. Then-Secretary of State John Kerry was shockingly candid about this end-run around the Senate's Constitutional prerogative. When asked by Rep. Ribble of Wisconsin why the deal was not considered a treaty, he replied: ""I spent quite a few years trying to get a lot of treaties through the United States Senate, and frankly, it's become physically impossible. That's why. Because you can't pass a treaty anymore."" The same was true for the Paris Agreement. The New York Times in 2014 reported that ""the Obama administration is working to forge a sweeping international climate change agreement to compel nations to cut their planet-warming fossil fuel emissions, but without ratification from Congress"" because there was ""no chance"" that the ""Senate [would] ratify a climate change treaty in the near future."" The Obama administration attempted to justify its decision to sideline the Senate by structuring the agreements in a way that allowed it to publicly assert that the agreements were not legally binding and therefore not treaties subject to the Senate's advice and consent-even though an Obama-era State Department legal memorandum determined the Paris Agreement ""does contain legally binding obligations that would apply to the United States,"" and then-President Obama himself contextualized the Iran Deal by saying that ""[a]s was true in previous treaties, it does not resolve all problems."" But this strategic restructuring is itself a significant threat to the separation of powers and the Senate's constitutional role in foreign affairs. As the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service wrote in a canonical 2001 study of the treaty power prepared for the United States Committee on Foreign Relations: The main threat of erosion of the Senate treaty power comes not from the international agreements that are submitted as treaties, however, but from the many international agreements that are not submitted for its consent. In addition to concluding hundreds of executive agreements, Presidents have made important commitments that they considered politically binding but not legally binding. Maintaining the Senate role in treaties requires overseeing all international agreements to assure that agreements that should be treaties are submitted to the Senate. Simply put, a President does great damage to the separation of powers if he arrogates the treaty power entirely to himself by altering the terms of an agreement so that most or all of the provisions are not legally binding, even as they politically and practically commit United States to a course of action opposed by Congress. See 11 F.A.M. 723 (listing criteria for determining whether an agreement is a treaty, including ""the extent to which the agreement involves commitments or risks affecting the nation as a whole"" and the ""preference of the Congress""). Your administration has rightly changed course as a matter of substantive policy by withdrawing from both the Iran Deal and the Paris Agreement. This was a great accomplishment for the American people. I urge you now also to remedy the harm done to the balance of powers by submitting the Iran Deal and the Paris Agreement to the Senate as treaties. Only by submitting them to the Senate will the Senate be able to satisfy its constitutional role to provide advice and consent in the event any future administration attempts to revive these dangerous deals. Sincerely, /s/ ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=video&id=5533,Sen. Cruz: Hong Kong Dissidents' Powerful Stories Need to Be Heard,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Central TX (512) 916-5834 300 E 8th Suite 961 Austin, TX 78701 Email North TX (214) 599-8749 Lee Park Tower II 3626 N. Hall St. Suite 410 Dallas, TX 75219 Email Southeast TX (713) 718-3057 The Mickey Leland Federal Building 1919 Smith Street Suite 9047 Houston, TX 77002 Email South/Cen. TX (210) 340-2885 9901 IH-10W Suite 950 San Antonio, TX 78230 Email East TX (903) 593-5130305 S. Broadway Suite 501 Tyler, TX 75702 Email South TX (956) 686-7339 200 S. 10th St Suite 1603 McAllen, TX 78501 Email Washington, D.C. (202) 224-5922 127A Russell Washington, DC 20510 Contact",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=430,Arrington Healthcare Reform Bills Pass in Final Week of Congress,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Jodey Arrington,A000375,arrington.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON On Monday, December 21st, the House and Senate passed several pieces of healthcare reform legislation led by Rep. Arrington. Rural hospital closures and prescription drug pricing are two of the most urgent and consequential issues facing our country, said Rep. Arrington. Patients in rural America deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing their families can access care in case of an emergency, and seniors should not be rationing food or electricity in order to pay for their medications. Seeing these three pieces of legislation signed into law by President Trump is incredibly humbling, and I believe these policies will truly help patients and families across the nation. ""The new step-down payment model will save hundreds of rural hospitals from closing, including some in West Texas. Hospitals should have the flexibility to offer the services their community needs and tailor care to their patient population, not one-size fits-all, government mandates. Removing these unnecessary and burdensome regulations and giving community hospitals the freedom to choose their services will drive down costs and strengthen access to health care throughout Rural America. ""The Shop RX Act and the Public Disclosure of Drug Discounts Act will offer much-needed transparency into the drug supply chain. For too long, Americans have been kept in the dark on prescription drug pricing and forced to accept skyrocketing costs of medication. These bills crack down on secretive schemes and empower patients to truly understand what they are paying for when they go to the pharmacy. ""Our nation's ability to maintain a safe, affordable, and abundant supply of food and energy relies on a healthy rural America.While our healthcare delivery system is still in need of significant reforms, these three bills are a step in the right direction towards lower costs, higher quality care, and access for all. Healthcare provisions passed in the final days of the 116th Congress include: The Save Rural Communities Act Forty percent of rural hospitals operate in the red and a rash of closures across the country has jeopardized access to basic health care for people living in rural communities. Costly government mandates prevent hospitals from adjusting their services to meet the community's needs and balance their budget. The Save Rural Communities Act would repeal these mandates and give rural hospitals the freedom and flexibility to scale down to an outpatient only, 24-hour emergency care center. This new rural step-down model will be lifesaving to these facilities, which are often the largest employer and only emergency health care provider within 50 miles. The COVID-19 pandemic has unfortunately further exacerbated the hospital closure crisis in rural America, said Alan Morgan, CEO of the National Rural Health Association. Innovative models that enable rural providers to meet the needs of their communities are needed to ensure rural communities prosper. Earlier this year, Representative Arrington announced the introduction of the Save Rural Communities Act at NRHA's Annual Rural Health Policy Institute to provide rural hospitals an innovative path forward. The inclusion of the legislation in the year-end COVID-19 relief package is a win for rural providers and patients. NRHA is proud to work alongside Representative Arrington to champion meaningful legislation on behalf of rural America. ""The new Rural Emergency Hospital Designation included in the upcoming 2020-2021 spending package represents landmark legislation for rural health care,"" Chief Administrative Officer of Covenant Health Steve Beck said. ""Not since 1997 when the Critical Access Designation was passed in the Balance Budget Act has legislation been passed to create innovate models on how to deliver rural health care. With this measure, many of our smaller, rural communities will maintain access to quality health care and not be forced to otherwise close their local hospital doors."" ""We are very pleased to see components of the bill addressing some of the rural hospital and rural health challenges, said Don McBeath, with the Texas Organization of Rural & Community Hospitals. These action will help protect access to care in rural areas. We are also appreciate Representative Arrington who was a driving force behind these provisions."" The Shop RX Act of 2019 For too long, seniors on Medicare have been unfairly subjected to an convoluted and confusing process for buying their prescription drugs. The Shop RX Act will ensure that health insurers with prescription drug plans offer comprehensive, real-time information to Medicare beneficiaries, allowing their doctors to see the cost of a drug and cheaper alternatives before writing a prescription. This commonsense measure will also empower seniors with the information to purchase the right drugs at the right price for their individual needs. ""Real time benefit tools allow patients to know what lower cost prescription drug options are available before they get prescribed and dispensed. This is sorely needed right now. We commend Congressman Arrington for his tireless work to add this provision to the coronavirus package,"" said Joel White, President of the Council For Affordable Health Coverage. ""Giving access to prescription drug benefit information in real-time, at the point of care is an important step for both providers and patients in the ongoing fight to reduce burdens and costs in our healthcare system. HIA applauds Representative Arrington for his successful effort to add this to the new law,"" said Brett Meeks, VP of Health Innovation Alliance. The Public Disclosure of Drug Discounts Act Insurers negotiate drug prices with Pharma, but it's done completely in the dark with no ability to discern if taxpayers and seniors are getting the best deals. The Public Disclosure of Drug Discounts Act shines a light on these negotiations by requiring insurance companies to report when rebates, discounts, and price concessions happen and whether those savings are benefiting seniors and taxpayers or themselves. This legislation will require PBMs to report the totals of rebates, discounts, and price concessions they negotiate with Pharma and then publish the results, bringing much-needed transparency into the drug supply chain. NCPA appreciates Congress including the Public Disclosure of Drug Discounts Act in the Consolidated Appropriations Act for 2021. This provision will bring further transparency to PBMs and the games they play with drug rebates, which can include steering patients to more expensive drugs to the detriment of small business community pharmacies, said Karry K. La Violette, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs & Director of the Advocacy Center, National Community Pharmacists Association. NCPA thanks the bill's original sponsors, Reps. Jodey Arrington, Abigail Spanberger, and Brendan Boyle, for their leadership in addressing this issue and securing its inclusion in this omnibus package. ""Real time benefit tools allow patients to know what lower cost prescription drug options are available before they get prescribed and dispensed. This is sorely needed right now. We commend Congressman Arrington for his tireless work to add this provision to the coronavirus package,"" said Joel White, President of the Council For Affordable Health Coverage. ""Giving access to prescription drug benefit information in real-time, at the point of care is an important step for both providers and patients in the ongoing fight to reduce burdens and costs in our healthcare system. HIA applauds Representative Arrington for his successful effort to add this to the new law,"" said Brett Meeks, VP of Health Innovation Alliance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1498,"Carter Secures $48.7 million for Fort Hood, $60 million for Privatized Housing Oversight in FY21 Appropriations Bill",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John R. Carter,C001051,carter.house.gov,carter,https://carter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representative John Carter (TX-31) today announced $48.7 million for Fort Hood in the fiscal year 2021 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Appropriations bill. The funding includes $32.7 million for a fuel facilities project and $16 million to complete battalion headquarters. The legislation also includes $60 million, as part of a $200 million investment, for privatized housing oversight and support. “As the top Republican on the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, I’m proud to deliver these victories for the men and women at Ft. Hood,” said Representative Carter. “It’s always been my goal to provide the resources necessary for the soldiers to do their jobs safely and effectively. These additional investments increase quality of life and help maintain readiness of our military.” The fiscal year 2021 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill is included in the FY21 consolidated appropriations bill that is expected to reach the house floor today. Rep. Carter represents Texas District 31, which includes Fort Hood, the largest active duty armored military installation in the free world. He serves as co-chairman of the Congressional Army Caucus and Chairman of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Appropriations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/doggett-legislation-expanding-student-eligibility-pell-grants,Doggett Legislation Expanding Student Eligibility for Pell Grants & Simplifying FAFSA Approved by Congress,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 22, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 Doggett Legislation Expanding Student Eligibility for Pell Grants & Simplifying FAFSA Approved by Congress Washington, D.C. As this year's January 15 FAFSA deadline approaches, legislation authored by U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) to expand access to federal financial and simplify the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) was included in the COVID relief package, just approved by Congress. He released this statement: Most every family helping a student prepare for college goes through the time-consuming and often confusing task of completing the FAFSA.This process is so burdensome that $2.6 billion in free student aid has gone unused because manyparticularly low-income or first-generation college studentsdecide not to apply. For more than a decade, I have been trying to simplify that task and open financial aid to more students. This relief package contains a number of provisions that, working with Austin nonprofit College Forward, I proposed in theEquitable Student Aid Access Act that I first filed in 2015. By simplifying the FAFSA and making more students eligible to receive the Pell Grant, we can remove financial obstacles so more students can secure all of the education for which they are willing to work. I salute retiring Senator Lamar Alexander for his bipartisan leadership on FAFSA and other higher education provisions in this bill. Austin Buchan, Chief Executive Officer of College Forward, shared: After arguably the most difficult academic year in the last century, we are thrilled to see FAFSA simplification included in the latest stimulus package. Students from economically disadvantaged and first generation families have endured historic challenges on their paths to and through college. This move to dramatically simplify access to federal financial aid will open doors to millions of students in our hardest hit communities. We are grateful to Representative Doggett, Senator Lamar Alexander, and countless others who have made this a top policy priority for years, and share in this victory with College Forward's community of 15,000 students and their families. TheEquitable Student Aid Access Act will ensure that any student receiving a number of a federal means-tested benefits is eligible for the simplified needs test, putting students on track to receive the Pell Grant and ensuring the FAFSA is more simple for low-income families. The bill also increases the household income threshold used to determine whether a student qualifies for the full Pell Grant, ensuring that our most vulnerable students have access to the resources they need. Finally, the bill ensures students can begin filling the FAFSA on October 1 by allowing families to use necessary tax information. This major legislative progress comes in the middle of FAFSA season for families; the deadline to complete the FAFSA for students planning to attend a public college or university in Texas is fast-approaching, as the priority deadline for the 2021-2022 school year is January 15, 2021. Particularly in the continuing economic hardship of this pandemic, it is critical that families of future first-generation college students and current students can access financial aid. Families who need assistance completing their FAFSA can get support from a number of local partners throughout central Texas: Click here to sign up for financial aid workshops and individual appointments hosted by the Austin Chamber of Commerce, Austin Community College, and Red Kite Click here sign up for virtual financial aid advising sessions hosted by Cafcollege ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/doggett-legislation-expanding-student-eligibility-pell-grants-simplifying,Doggett Legislation Expanding Student Eligibility for Pell Grants & Simplifying FAFSA Approved by Congress,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,doggett,https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – As this year's January 15 FAFSA deadline approaches, legislation authored by U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) to expand access to federal financial and simplify the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) was included in the COVID relief package, just approved by Congress. He released this statement: ""Most every family helping a student prepare for college goes through the time-consuming and often confusing task of completing the FAFSA. This process is so burdensome that $2.6 billion in free student aid has gone unused because many—particularly low-income or first-generation college students—decide not to apply. For more than a decade, I have been trying to simplify that task and open financial aid to more students. This relief package contains a number of provisions that, working with Austin nonprofit College Forward, I proposed in the Equitable Student Aid Access Act that I first filed in 2015. By simplifying the FAFSA and making more students eligible to receive the Pell Grant, we can remove financial obstacles so more students can secure all of the education for which they are willing to work. I salute retiring Senator Lamar Alexander for his bipartisan leadership on FAFSA and other higher education provisions in this bill."" Austin Buchan, Chief Executive Officer of College Forward, shared: ""After arguably the most difficult academic year in the last century, we are thrilled to see FAFSA simplification included in the latest stimulus package. Students from economically disadvantaged and first generation families have endured historic challenges on their paths to and through college. This move to dramatically simplify access to federal financial aid will open doors to millions of students in our hardest hit communities. We are grateful to Representative Doggett, Senator Lamar Alexander, and countless others who have made this a top policy priority for years, and share in this victory with College Forward's community of 15,000 students and their families."" The Equitable Student Aid Access Act will ensure that any student receiving a number of a federal means-tested benefits is eligible for the simplified needs test, putting students on track to receive the Pell Grant and ensuring the FAFSA is more simple for low-income families. The bill also increases the household income threshold used to determine whether a student qualifies for the full Pell Grant, ensuring that our most vulnerable students have access to the resources they need. Finally, the bill ensures students can begin filling the FAFSA on October 1 by allowing families to use necessary tax information. This major legislative progress comes in the middle of FAFSA season for families; the deadline to complete the FAFSA for students planning to attend a public college or university in Texas is fast-approaching, as the priority deadline for the 2021-2022 school year is January 15, 2021. Particularly in the continuing economic hardship of this pandemic, it is critical that families of future first-generation college students and current students can access financial aid. Families who need assistance completing their FAFSA can get support from a number of local partners throughout central Texas: Click here to sign up for financial aid workshops and individual appointments hosted by the Austin Chamber of Commerce, Austin Community College, and Red Kite Click here sign up for virtual financial aid advising sessions hosted by Cafécollege Follow Congressman Doggett",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://fletcher.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2880,Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher’s Bill To Honor Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal Signed Into Law,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lizzie Fletcher,F000468,fletcher.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher's (TX-07) legislation to honor Harris County Sheriff's Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal was signed into law by President Trump yesterday. Fletcher's legislation, H.R. 5317, the Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal Post Office Act, renames the post office located at 315 Addicks Howell Road to the Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal Post Office. Fletcher has been leading the effort in Congress to honor Deputy Dhaliwal's legacy in the community he served, introducing this legislation in the House of Representatives last December. The bill passed the House in September and it passed the Senate earlier this month. Deputy Dhaliwal's loss was devastating to our community for so many reasons, chief among them, because he represented the very best of our community: he worked for equality, connection, and community through his life of service to others, said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. He was widely regarded as a role model for Americans of all faiths wishing to serve their communities, and an example of how one person can change our community for the better. Through his dedication, he was able to improve law enforcement'sand our community'sunderstanding of the contributions by the Sikh community to Houston. I am grateful that my legislation to honor Deputy Dhaliwal in the community he loved and served faithfully has been signed into law. From now on, the Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal Post Office will be a permanent reminder of his service, his sacrifice, and his example for us all. In 2015, Lt.Dhaliwalbecame the first Sikh American in Texas to receive a policy accommodation to serve while wearing his articles of faith, including his turban and beard. He was the first Sikh police officer to serve in the Harris County Sheriff's Office and was a role model and a trailblazer for Sikh Americans and religious minorities that sought to serve in law enforcement. On September 27, 2019, DeputyDhaliwalwas killed in the line of duty. In October 2019, Congresswoman Fletcher led the entire Houston delegation in introducing H. Res. 616, aresolutionto honor the life and mourn the loss of Deputy Dhaliwal andspokeon the House floor about his remarkable life and tragic death.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gooden.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-lance-gooden-r-tx-urges-texas-senators-cornyn-cruz-object-electoral,Congressman Lance Gooden (R-TX) Urges Texas Senators Cornyn & Cruz: Object to Electoral College Certification on January 6th,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Lance Gooden,G000589,gooden.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Lance Gooden (R-TX) sent a letter to Texas Senators John Cornyn & Ted Cruz announcing his intention to reject the certification of the Electoral College vote and urging the two Senators to join him in doing so. The vote will be held by a Joint Session of Congress on January 6th, 2021. The letter reads, in part: ""We must stand up for the tens of millions ofAmericans who want answers to the irregularities surrounding this election. It is our duty to ensure the integrity of our election is unwavering, and the American people deserve to feel confident their vote counts."" Congressman Gooden has been a leading advocate for an independent investigation into election irregularities and voter fraud. He led over two dozen House Republicans in calling for the appointment of a special counsel to launch an election probe. He joined numerous efforts asking the Department of Justice and congressional leaders to examine potential wrongdoing, but there has been little action on their part. Read the full letter to Senators Cornyn & Cruz here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gooden.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CB1F43DD-65AF-4E3D-8182-80672B654EF1,Congressman Lance Gooden (R-TX) Urges Texas Senators Cornyn & Cruz: Object to Electoral College Certification on January 6th,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Lance Gooden,G000589,gooden.house.gov,gooden,https://gooden.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Lance Gooden (R-TX) sent a letter to Texas Senators John Cornyn & Ted Cruz announcing his intention to reject the certification of the Electoral College vote and urging the two Senators to join him in doing so. The vote will be held by a Joint Session of Congress on January 6th, 2021. The letter reads, in part: ""We must stand up for the tens of millions ofAmericans who want answers to the irregularities surrounding this election. It is our duty to ensure the integrity of our election is unwavering, and the American people deserve to feel confident their vote counts."" Congressman Gooden has been a leading advocate for an independent investigation into election irregularities and voter fraud. He led over two dozen House Republicans in calling for the appointment of a special counsel to launch an election probe. He joined numerous efforts asking the Department of Justice and congressional leaders to examine potential wrongdoing, but there has been little action on their part. Read the full letter to Senators Cornyn & Cruz here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/serrano-hurd-bill-establish-national-museum-american-latino-included,"Serrano, Hurd Bill to Establish National Museum of the American Latino Included in Omnibus Package",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON With bipartisan support, Congress yesterday approved a year-end funding package, which included Reps. Jose Serrano (D-N.Y.) and Will Hurd's (R-Texas) legislation, the National Museum of the American Latino Act. The bill takes the first step in establishing the National Museum of the American Latino within the Smithsonian Institution. To fully understand American history, we have to understand all our history. That includes the contributions of the many Latinos, past and present, who have had a tremendous impact on our nation's history and culture, said Hurd. After more than 20 years of work, we were able to get this bill unanimously through the House, and today we reach another milestone with its approval through this year's funding bill. I am proud to be a leader in this effort, and I look forward to the day when the stories of my constituents are forever memorialized for millions of expected visitors from all over the world to see. As lead Republican cosponsor on the bill in the House, Hurd ushered its unanimous passage in July. Hurd has long been a strong proponent of establishing a museum of the American Latino to permanently honor the contributions Latinos have made to our nation. In November, Hurd wrote a letter with Serrano to the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration urging passage of the legislation. Earlier this year, Hurd testified before the Committee on House Administration on the need for a National Museum on the American Latino, and, in September of last year, Hurd penned a column during Hispanic Heritage Month urging passage of this legislation. Once the bill becomes law, it will mark Hurd's 18th piece of legislation signed into law.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://johncarter.house.gov/press-releases/carter-secures-487-million-fort-hood-60-million-privatized-housing-oversight-fy21,"Carter Secures $48.7 million for Fort Hood, $60 million for Privatized Housing Oversight in FY21 Appropriations Bill",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Carter,C001051,johncarter.house.gov,,,legacy,,0,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kevinbrady.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404979,Three Years of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Kevin Brady,B000755,kevinbrady.house.gov,,,legacy,"Three years ago, House Republicans and President Trump rewrote our nations tax code for the first time in 30 years. I was honored to lead these efforts, and in the three years since theTax Cuts and Jobs Actwas signed into law, weve seen historic economic success. Wages increased, main street optimism reached an all-time high, jobs were brought back from overseas, and the unemployment rate reached record lows. Bottom line theTax Cuts and Jobs Acthelped all Americans, and created record-low unemployment for women, people of color and minorities, and workers without high school degrees. Three years later, tax reform serves as a strong foundation on which to rebuild our economy and it is the smart, pro-growth policies that theTax Cuts and Jobs Actembodied that we must focus on to help our families, small businesses, and workers recover from COVID-19.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://olson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/olson-secures-key-victories-for-texas-in-end-of-year-spending-bill,OLSON SECURES KEY VICTORIES FOR TEXAS IN END OF YEAR SPENDING BILL,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Pete Olson,O000168,olson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Rep. Pete Olson (R-TX) last night voted in support of the FY2021 Omnibus Appropriations Bill that includes many key Olson victories for Texas. Included in the bill was Olson's DSH Cuts and Delays Act, which provides a critical delay in scheduled cuts to Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) payments for three years and allows hospitals to stay open and continue caring for our most vulnerable citizens.The bill also includes two critical priorities Olson fought for on the energy and environment side. One allows the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to address a shortage of regulators to review pending energy infrastructure projects by paying more competitive wages. The bill also includes a hard-fought environmental win that includes a 15 year phase down of the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), coolants primarily used in air conditioning and refrigerators, in favor of more environmentally sound alternatives supported by the manufacturing industry. The package authorizes $1.4 trillion in government funding through September 2021 and provides an additional $900 billion in a second round of COVID stimulus aid for families and businesses struggling in this global pandemic. This package includes five of Olson's bills. I'm relieved that congressional Democrats have finally set their partisan agenda aside to fund the government and provide critical financial relief for struggling American families and businesses. Many of the provisions I was proud to secure in this package were the result of years of hard work and will truly help folks in TX-22 and across America, Rep. Pete Olson said. The healthcare provisions will help ensure quality care for low-income folks across Texas and America. The phase down of HFC's will also improve air quality in America and ensure our manufacturers stay competitive in the global economy. As I depart Congress, I'm proud of the work that my colleagues and I have accomplished in a small, but important way to ensure continued healthcare for some of our most vulnerable neighbors and work in a bipartisan manner to improve our environment and American competitiveness. I'm glad the Senate also passed this package and immediately sent it to President Trump's desk for final passage. Disproportionate share funds (DSH) serve a vital role in funding safety net hospitals such as OakBend Medical Center. Typical of most safety net hospitals, OakBend runs a deficit in more years than not. Without safety net funding such as DSH we would have to shut our doors, leaving the poor and elderly of our community without access to hospital services. We appreciate Congressman Olson's efforts to delay cuts to the DSH program.- Joe Freudenberger, CEO of Oak Bend Medical Center Congressman Olson knows well how much the nation's safety net hospitals rely upon critical supplemental payment programs, such as the Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH), given that providers caring for Medicaid patients are only reimbursed at approximately one-half of the cost of care provided. Our system and providers across the country applaud the Congressman's and his colleagues' tenacity in gaining a three-year delay in the imposition of these cuts, particularly at a time when providers have suffered significant financial impacts responding to COVID-19. Freddy Warner, Chief Government Relations Officer, Memorial Hermann Health System Medicaid DSH payments are critical to children's hospitals. Congress created the Medicaid DSH program to provide financial help to hospitals that treat a large number of Medicaid and uninsured patients. Unfortunately, Medicaid reimburses children's hospitals at an average of only 80% of the cost of providing care, and Medicaid reimbursement to children's hospitals would fall even lower without crucial DSH payments. These DSH payments help children's hospitals sustain specialized pediatric care services and pediatric training programs that benefit all patients. Texas Children's Hospital is grateful for Congressman Olson's leadership to ensure a delay in cuts to a critical funding source for Texas Children's, and all children's hospitals especially as we navigate challenges due to COVID-19. Weldon Gage, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Texas Children's Hospital COVID-19 Relief Package Highlights: Provides over $280 billion to reopen and strengthen the PPP program. Nearly $20 billion for the production of vaccines and therapeutics, covering the cost for everyone who needs it. $8.75 billion for distribution of vaccines. This includes cold chain, advance freezers, and supporting state efforts. $600 stimulus checks per individual/child ($1200 per married couple). $10 billion in Child Care and Development Block Grant Program (CCDBG) Increases the PPP loan amount for Restaurants and Hotels from 2.5x payroll to 3.5x, providing an extra month's worth of payroll support $45 billion in transportation assistance. $13 billion in support to farmers, ranchers, and the agriculture sector Background on TheDSH Cuts Delay Act, H.R. 3054: Reps. Pete Olson and Dan Crenshaw introduced the Improving Low-Income Access to Prescription Drugs Act, which would require a delay to scheduled cuts to Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) payments for two years.Medicaid DSH payments help sustain hospitals that serve a disproportionate number of low-income and uninsured patients. In doing so, these hospitals incur tremendous uncompensated costs. Medicaid DSH payments help make up for those losses and, in turn, allow hospitals to keep their doors open and continue caring for our most vulnerable citizens. This bill provides more time for Congress to develop a more sustainable, permanent solution to enable these hospitals to continue operating. Congressman Olson was able to secure a temporary delay in the CERTS Act of 2020 for the 2020 fiscal year. If these cuts go into effect, 186 Texas hospitals will be affected and will lose an estimated $450 million in state and federal funding. Rep. Olson and Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY)sent a letter, signed by 300 Members of Congress, to Congressional leaders requesting a delay to Medicaid cuts. Additional Olson Bills Included in the 2021 Omnibus Spending Bill: The AIM Act, H.R. 5544: Reps. Paul Tonko and Pete Olson introduced the American Innovation and Manufacturing Leadership Act, a bipartisan bill that would phase down the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), coolants primarily used in air conditioning and refrigerators, in favor of more environmentally sound alternatives supported by the manufacturing industry. The bill will provide a responsible phase down of HFC's and will stimulate additional economic benefits by creating an additional 33,000 manufacturing jobs, improving the U.S. trade balance in equipment and chemicals by $12.5 billion annually and increasing exports by $5 billion. Studies forecast the overall contribution to the HVACR industry will be 2.5 million jobs and $621 billion in economic output by 2027. The Timely Review of Infrastructure Act, H.R. 1426: Reps. Pete Olson and Mike Doyle introduced the Timely Review of Infrastructure Act, which allows the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to address a shortage of regulators to review pending energy infrastructure projects like the LNG export terminals in Texas and Louisiana. Salary is a critical component in deciding where to work and the private sector can pay significantly higher salaries, leaving a shortage of regulators to review the viability of projects creating a backlog. This bill allows FERC to pay competitive salaries to ensure the oversight and review process can continue in a timely manner. The Shop RX Act of 2019, HR 3408: Reps. Pete Olson and Jodey Arrington introduced the Shop RX Act, which requires prescription drug plans to offer real-time benefit information to Medicare beneficiaries. Real-time benefits allow providers to see the cost of a drug and its alternatives before they prescribe it to their patients. By incorporating price transparency tools, both patients and their providers can have more informed, productive conversations about their health care options. Improving Low-Income Access to Prescription Drugs Act, HR 3029: Reps. Pete Olson, Nanette Diaz Barragan, Kenny Marchant, and John Lewis introduced the Improving Low Income Access to Prescription Drugs Act, which would permanently authorize the Limited Income Newly Eligible Transition (LI NET) Program. This Program provides temporary prescription drug coverage for low-income beneficiaries, eliminating gaps in coverage while they apply for Medicare Part D drug coverage. In 2018, the LI NET Program helped almost 800,000 Americans, including 41,350 Texans. Read the full text of the omnibus spending bill here. ### Media Contact | MacKenzie Morales",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-roy-votes-against-5600-age-23-trillion-backroom-spending-bill,"Rep. Roy votes against 5,600-page, $2.3 trillion, backroom spending bill",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Chip Roy,R000614,roy.house.gov,,,legacy,,0,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-marc-veasey-tx-33-votes-for-bipartisan-covid-19-relief,"Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) Votes for Bipartisan COVID-19 Relief, Government Funding Package",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Marc A. Veasey,V000131,veasey.house.gov,veasey,https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Late last night, Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) voted to pass a bipartisan COVID relief package. The relief package was included with bipartisan Appropriations bills which will fund the government through September 30, 2021. The package provides funding for vaccine distribution, more aid to small businesses, assistance for airline industry workers, expands unemployment benefits and includes critical provisions from Veasey-led legislation that will bolster affordable access to broadband. Additionally, the House passed an omnibus spending bill consisting of all 12 fiscal year 2021 appropriations bills—including provisions from Veasey-led legislation advancing carbon capture, utilization, and storage technologies. ""Our country is in a deadly pandemic right now and North Texas families are struggling through no fault of their own,"" said Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33). ""For months, Republicans in Congress have refused to accept this reality and work with us to pass legislation like the Heroes Act that would have delivered critical relief to American families. I am proud we finally reached an agreement that is now going to the President's desk to be signed into law because Americans are facing a multitude of problems right now. While there is no doubt that this emergency coronavirus relief legislation falls far short of meaningfully addressing our numerous priorities, like ensuring higher direct stimulus payments that Democrats have previously championed–this package is an essential step forward to provide people across our country immediate relief as we go into the holiday season. Congress must work with the incoming Administration to build on this package to ensure the lives and livelihoods of all Americans are protected as we weather this crisis."" The expansive COVID-19 relief and government funding package includes these critical provisions that will help Texas families: Accelerates vaccine distribution: The package provides billions in urgently needed funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as soon as possible, implements a strong national testing and tracing strategy with billions reserved specifically for combating the disparities facing communities of color and supports our heroic health care workers and providers. Provides strong support for small business: The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, including important changes to make the program work better for restaurants. It also includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions and $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. Provides additional direct payments: The package provides a new round of economic impact payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, including mixed status families like many of those in Texas' 33rd district. Restores enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits: The agreement adds $300 per week in UI enhancement, providing a vital safety net for the record number of Americans who are unemployed, including those connected to the gig-economy and independent contractors. Extends rental assistance: The package provides $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and extends the eviction moratorium. Provides additional assistance for airline industry workers: The agreement provides an additional $15 billion in payroll support to airlines and restores jobs for thousands of furloughed airline industry workers. Supports paid sick leave: The agreement provides a tax credit to support employers offering paid sick leave, based on the Families First framework. Delivers More Affordable Broadband Access: The agreement invests $7 billion to increase access to broadband, including a new Emergency Broadband Benefit to help millions of students, families and unemployed workers afford the broadband they need during the pandemic. Provides nutrition assistance for hungry families: The agreement includes $13 billion for SNAP and child nutrition benefits to help relieve the historic hunger crisis that has left up to 17 million children food insecure. Supports our schools and child care providers: The agreement provides $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open. Strengthens Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit: The agreement helps ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income, preserving these vital income supports for vulnerable families.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://weber.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=630,Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX) Releases Statement on December 2020 COVID Spending Package,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Randy Weber,W000814,weber.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Tuesday, December 22, 2020 U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX-14) issued the following statement in response to the December 2020COVID spending package. ""Once again, Nancy Pelosi negotiated a massive spending bill in secret and released the 5,500+ bill text at the final hour. While I believe hardworking American families and businesses deserve additional Payment Protection Program (PPP) funding and stimulus checks, this much-needed relief package was tied to a bloated $1.4 trillion omnibus bill which failed to prioritize American families. Even worse, it created additional financial strain on future generations with its frivolous spending. Some of the most troubling items include: $4 billion in aid to foreign countries $54.3 billion in additional funding for many schools which refuse to open $10 million for gender programs in Pakistan $4 million to kill hornets $10 billion loan relief to USPS $15 billion bailout to the live music and entertainment industries * tax breaks for racehorse owners ""Nancy Pelosi knew what she was doing when she tied the relief package and her bloated spending bills together. She needed the votes to fund her liberal priorities, so she packaged it with the relief priorities that families and small businesses really need. I would have voted for the relief package on its own PPP and stimulus checks. In fact, like President Trump, I would have supported BIGGER stimulus checks for struggling families. ""I voted for all of that when Congress passed the CARES Act in the spring. But, this time she held it hostage to liberal priorities foreign governments, Hollywood and racehorse owners. Americans deserve better.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://wright.house.gov/media/press-releases/wright-issues-statement-rose-bowl-coming-arlington,Wright Issues Statement on Rose Bowl Coming to Arlington,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Ron Wright,W000827,wright.house.gov,,,legacy,"Arlington, T.X. Today, Congressman Ron Wright (TX-06) issued the following statement: ""There are very few things Texans love more than football, and there is no better place to host the Rose Bowl than AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The fact that California elected officials were not going to allow players' families and loved ones to attend the game is disgraceful, and we can't wait to welcome them to the Entertainment District in January. I want to congratulate Mayor Williams and the entire city of Arlington on this exciting achievement. Finally, I have seen news outlets reporting that this game will take place in Dallas. I want to remind everyone that this game will take place in Arlington, TX, not Dallas, TX. Arlington's Entrainment District is home to AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Park, Six Flags over Texas, and much more. Unfortunately, some news outlets continue to make this same careless mistake over and over again."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn%E2%80%99s-energy-innovation-bill-passes-senate,Cornyn’s Energy Innovation Bill Passes Senate,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after his Launching Energy Advancement and Development through Innovations for Natural Gas (LEADING) Act passed the Senate as a part of the omnibus funding bill: The LEADING Act gives energy innovators the freedom and resources to revolutionize natural gas power while keeping energy bills low for Texans, said Sen. Cornyn. Rather than an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink regulation approach like the Green New Deal, this bill focuses on enhancing a reliable, affordable, and environmentally-friendly energy supply for the future. Background on the LEADING Act: The LEADING Act would incentivize research and development of carbon capture technology for natural gas to ensure a reliable, affordable, and environmentally sound energy supply. The LEADING Act will promote the continued use of natural gas so we can keep energy bills low, maintain U.S. energy security, and protect the environment all at the same time. By increasing the use of natural gas and other innovative resources, the United States is leading the world in emissions reduction. Natural gas is now the main source of energy in the United States, generating 35.1% of our electricity in 2018. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects this number to continue to rise for the foreseeable future as more natural gas power plants come online. Natural gas emits 50 to 60 percent less carbon dioxide when combusted in a natural gas power plant compared with other sources. Natural gas supports the deployment of renewable energy, and natural gas power plants can quickly and safely ramp up and down to combat the volatility of renewables. Developing cost-effective carbon capture technology for natural gas power plants will help the United States continue to lower emissions while creating jobs and supporting domestic energy production and security. The Launching Energy Advancement and Development through Innovations for Natural Gas Act would require the Secretary of Energy to establish a program for the research, development, and demonstration of commercially viable technologies for the capture of carbon dioxide produced during the generation of natural gas-generated power. Specifically, the bill would: Require the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a program to develop cost-effective carbon capture technologies for use by natural gas-generating power facilities. By incentivizing research and innovation, the goal is to accelerate development and commercial application of natural gas carbon capture technologies and create a partnership with the private sector for demonstration projects. Encourage DOE to include the participation of National Laboratories, universities, and research facilities, including the National Carbon Capture Center. Require DOE to solicit applications for demonstration projects and submit a report to Congress detailing legislative recommendations, applicant evaluation method, expected goals for technology development, estimations of project costs, and timelines for project construction.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-bill-blocking-e-cigarette-sales-children-passes-senate,Cornyn Bill Blocking E-Cigarette Sales to Children Passes Senate,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes to Children Act, which would block online sales of electronic cigarettes to children, passed the Senate as part of the omnibus funding legislation: The use of electronic cigarettes among children has become more and more pervasive, with a third of underage users buying e-cigarettes online, said Sen. Cornyn. I look forward to President Trump signing this into law so we can help stop this generation of young Americans from developing unhealthy addictions. Background: The Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes to Children Act, which passed the House in 2019, passed the Senate in July of 2020 with a minor change, and had to be passed again as part of the omnibus funding legislation, would require e-cigarette online retailers to: Verify the age of customers for all purchases. Require an adult with ID to be present for delivery. Label shipping packages to show they contain tobacco products. Comply with all state and local tobacco tax requirements. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 3 million high schools students used electronic cigarettes in 2018, a 78 percent increase over the previous year. Today, one in five U.S. high school students report using e-cigarettes, which have become the most commonly used tobacco product by youth in the United States. A recent survey published in the American Journal of Health Promotion found that 32 percent of underage e-cigarette users reported purchasing products online, making online sales the single largest source of purchases for underage users. In addition to Senators Cornyn and Feinstein, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Susan Collins (R-ME), David Perdue (R-GA), John Boozman (R-AR), Michael Enzi (R-WY), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Edward Markey (D-MA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Martha McSally (R-AZ), Jack Reed (D-RI), and Pat Roberts (R-KS). The bill is supported by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Lung Association, Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, California Physicians Alliance, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, Children's Health Fund, Go2Foundation for Lung Cancer, National Alliance for Hispanic Health, National Association of Convenience Stores and Society of Independent Gasoline Marketers of America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-latino-smithsonian-bill-heads-president%E2%80%99s-desk-signature,Cornyn Latino Smithsonian Bill Heads to President’s Desk for Signature,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Last night U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX)'s legislation to authorize the Smithsonian Institution to create a museum honoring American Latinos, the National Museum of the American Latino Act, passed the Senate as a part of the Omnibus funding legislation. It now heads to the President's desk. As a proud Texan, I'm fortunate to have grown up in a state steeped in the contributions of Latino Americans. From the brave soldiers who fought in the Texas Revolution, to the civil rights activists like Cesar Chaves, cultural icons like Selena, and leaders of all types in our communities generations of Latino Americans have shaped our country as it is today. But many Americans aren't familiar with the vast contributions of these men and women, and one critical way we can begin to right this wrong is by providing a brick and mortar home for their stories in our nation's capital. The National Museum of the American Latino will honor and preserve the stories of Latinos throughout our history, so generations of Americans can view a more accurate picture of the great American story. The National Museum of the American Latino Act builds on nearly 17 years' worth of work in laying the foundation for the establishment of a future museum. In 2003, the first Congressional bill was introduced to study the creation of a museum. In 2008, with Presidential and Congressional leadership, a 23-member Commission was established to study the viability of a museum. In 2011, the Commission's work culminated in a final report that detailed that the creation of a museum on the National Mall was indeed feasible. In 2020, this legislation will act on the Commission's report and put into motion the process of establishing a Latino Museum, similar to those that established other Smithsonian museums.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-passes-20-texas-priorities-water-infrastructure-bill,Cornyn Passes 20 Texas Priorities in Water Infrastructure Bill,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator John Cornyn released the following statement after twenty Texas priorities he advocated for in the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 passed the Senate as a part of the omnibus funding bill: Texans will be safer from future storms with the authorization of these projects, said Sen. Cornyn. From studying flood risk to fortifying levees to improving ship channels, all Texans stand to benefit from the high priority infrastructure projects included in this bill. Sen. Cornyn's priorities that are included in theWater Resources Development Act of 2020 are as follows: Authorizes the Houston Ship Channel Expansion Improvement Project. Authorizes the Jefferson County ecosystem restoration project. Authorizes the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Brazos River Floodgates, and Colorado River Locks navigation project. Authorizes the Matagorda Ship Channel Improvement Project in Port Lavaca. Authorizes the Chacon Creek flood risk management project. Authorizes a new feasibility study for the Port Arthur and Orange County flood risk management project, including construction of improvements to interior drainage. Authorizes a feasibility study for the Chocolate Bayou flood risk management project. Authorizes project modifications for the Houston-Galveston Navigation Channels project. Authorizes a feasibility study for the Port of Victoria flood risk management project. Expedites the completion of the Buffalo Bayou feasibility study for flood risk management. Requires the Secretary of the Army to provide a written status update on efforts to address flooding at Wilson Creek and Sloan Creek in Fairview, Texas. Authorizes project modifications for the Port of Corpus Christi Channel Improvement project. Expedites completion of the Lake Whitney Reallocation Study for the reallocation of water supply storage. Expedites completion of the Aquilla Lake Reallocation Study for the reallocation of water supply storage. Expedites the completion of the Lower Rio Grande River feasibility study for flood risk management, ecosystem restoration, and water supply. Authorizes the USACE to participate in the repair and restoration of the eroding embankment at Lake Waco. Directs the USACE to assist El Paso County with a proposal to modify the authorized funding level for a water related infrastructure project. Assists Harris County Flood Control District in streamlining benefit-cost analyses for projects. Directs the USACE to identify specific engineering and maintenance deficiencies for levees across Texas and the nation, and to describe recommended remedies to correct each deficiency to ensure that critical levee performance is being achieved. Reauthorizes of the Rio Grande Environmental Management Program in Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado through 2029.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/senate-passes-cornyn-relief-bill-independent-live-music-venues,Senate Passes Cornyn Relief Bill for Independent Live Music Venues,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the Senate passed the Save Our Stages Act, legislation he authored to provide Small Business Administration grants for independent live music venues, live performance arts organizations, or motion picture theatres affected by COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, as part of the omnibus funding bill. These grants would provide financial support necessary to keep venues afloat, pay employees, and preserve a critical economic sector for communities across America. Texas' historic and world-class entertainment venues were some of the first businesses to close, and many remain shuttered nine months later, said Sen. Cornyn. I'm proud to have led the charge in the Senate to ensure they have the resources to overcome lost revenue and mounting bills, and I urge the President to quickly sign this into law so Texans can enjoy their favorite artists at dance halls and live music venues for years to come. Background: Live music and entertainment venues have been hard-hit during the coronavirus pandemic, with 90 percent of venue owners, promoters, and bookers reporting they are at risk of closing without additional financial assistance and an estimated $9 billion in losses should ticket sales not resume until 2021. The Save Our Stages Act would: Narrowly define eligibility to ensure only shuttered and at-risk venues qualify for federal grant funding. Direct the SBA to make grants to eligible venues equal to the lesser of either 45 percent of operation costs from calendar year 2019 or $10 million Permit recipients to use grants for essential expenses incurred during the COVID pandemic Require recipients to return remaining funding after one year from the date of disbursement Permit recipients to use grants for rent, utilities, mortgage obligations, PPE procurement, payments to contractors, regular maintenance, administrative costs, state and local taxes, operating leases, and capital expenditures related to meeting state, local, or federal social distancing guidelines Authorize the appropriation of $15 billion for the grant program",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/es/es/content/news/el-proyecto-de-ley-de-cornyn-para-un-smithsonian-latino-se-dirige-al-escritorio-del,El Proyecto de Ley de Cornyn para un Smithsonian Latino Se Dirige al Escritorio del Presidente para su Firma,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Anoche el proyecto de ley de senador John Cornyn (R-TX) para autorizar a la Institucin Smithsonian a crear un museo para honrar a los latinoamericanos, La Ley del Museo Nacional del Latinoamericano, fue aprobado por el Senado como parte de la legislacin Omnibus. Ahora va al escritorio del presidente. Como un Texan orgulloso, tengo la suerte de haber crecido en un estado con una rica historia de las contribuciones de los latinoamericanos. Desde los valientes soldados que lucharon en la Revolucin de Texas, hasta los activistas de derechos civiles como Cesar Chaves, iconos culturales como Selena, y lderes de todo tipo en nuestras comunidades generaciones de latinoamericanos han dado forma a nuestro pas como es hoy. Pero muchos estadounidenses no estn familiares con las vastas contribuciones de estos hombres y mujeres, yuna manera crtica de que podamos comenzar a arreglar este mal es proporcionando un hogar de ladrillo y mortero para sus historias en la capital de nuestra nacin. El Museo Nacional del Latinoamericano honrar y preservar las historias de los latinoamericanos a lo largo de nuestra historia, para que generaciones de estadounidenses puedan ver una imagen ms precisa de la gran historia estadounidense. La Ley del Museo Nacional del Latinoamericano se basa en casi 17 aos de trabajo para sentar las bases para el establecimiento de un futuro museo. En 2003, se introdujo el primer proyecto de ley del Congreso para estudiar la creacin de un museo. En 2008, con el liderazgo presidencial y congresal, se establece una comisin de 23 miembros para estudiar la viabilidad de un museo. En 2011, el trabajo de la comisin culmin en un informe final que detallaba que la creacin de un museo en el National Mall era realmente viable. En 2020, este proyecto de ley actuar sobre el informe de la comisin y pondr en marcha el proceso de establecer un museo latinoamericano, como los que establecieron otros museos de la Institucin Smithsonian.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405985,"Rep. Cuellar Secures Passage of Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill Promoting US-Mexico Economic Partnership",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.-- Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) secured the passage of H.R. 133, the United States-Mexico Economic Partnership Act. This bill, which passed both the House and the Senate, served as vehicle for the emergency coronavirus relief and 2021 omnibus package. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will bolster professional development and economic growth in both countries with a focus on the energy, health, entrepreneurship, and education sectors. The goal of the bill is to promote a bilingual workforce that can better serve both sides of the border and increase economic development in the region. In 2019, Mexico became the largest trading partner of the United States. Every day, $1.6 billion worth of trade crosses our southern border, directly supporting American and Mexican businesses, farmers and jobs, said Congressman Cuellar. I introduced the United States-Mexico Economic Partnership Act so we can continue to deepen our relationship with Mexico both through economic integration and educational programs. Increasing academic exchanges in the energy, business, education, and health sectors will increase economic prosperity in both nations and allow us to further capitalize on the strengths each country has to offer. As the Chair of the U.S.-Mexico Inter-Parliamentary Group, I am committed to expanding our economic partnership through increased cooperation, interconnection, and integration of ideas. I want to thank Senator Cornyn for his help in ushering support in the Senate. According to the Institute of International Education, in the 2015-2016 academic year, more than 56,000 U.S. students studied in other countries in the Western Hemisphere, while more than 84,000 non-U.S. students from the region studied in the U.S., but only 5,000 of those United States students studied in Mexico and only 16,000 of those non-U.S. students were from Mexico. Increasing Bilateral Economic Integration Both countries have benefited from bilateral, mutually beneficial partnerships focused on advancing each country's economic interests. Under the United States-Mexico Economic Partnership Act, the State Department would create a strategy to further support economic relations between the U.S. and Mexico through academic and professional programs to contribute to this goal. Expanding Professional and Educational Exchange Programs The measure will require the State Department to develop a plan that expands educational and professional exchange programs with Mexico through the framework of the 100,000 Strong in the Americas Initiative, The Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI), Jvenes en Accin (Youth in Action), Fulbright Foreign Student Program, and Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program. Specifically, it will: 1. Encourage more academic exchange programs at the secondary, post-secondary, and post-graduate levels; 2.Encourage academic institutions and businesses to collaborate to support entrepreneurs and joint business initiatives; 3.Promote energy infrastructure coordination through vocational-level education, internships, and exchanges; 4. Require the State Department to assess the feasibility of facilitating partnerships between universities and medical and nursing programs in both countries. Read the bill texts of the United States-Mexico Economic Partnership Act here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://algreen.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-al-green-votes-yes-hr-133,Congressman Al Green Votes Yes on H.R. 133,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,algreen,https://algreen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – On Monday, December 21, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement on the passage of H.R. 133: “Similar to my legislation – H.R. 6868, to establish a Community Capital Investment Program, H.R. 133 includes $9 billion to fund an Emergency Capital Investment Program (ECIP) administered by the Department of the Treasury. Funds may be used: (1) to provide direct and indirect capital investment in minority depository institutions (MDIs) as well as community development financial institutions (CDFIs); and (2) by eligible financial institutions to provide loans, grants, and forbearance to small businesses, minority-owned businesses, and consumers, particularly in low- and moderate-income (LMI) areas and underserved communities that may be disproportionately impacted by the pandemic’s economic effects,” stated Congressman Al Green after voting ‘YES’ to H.R. 133, the relief package and omnibus passed by Congress. “Repayment will be deferred for at least five years, and participants must maintain or significantly expand lending or investment activity to LMI minority communities.” Congressman Green, who has been a strong proponent of MDIs and CDFIs for their work in often underbanked LMI communities, added, “I am enormously thankful for the inclusion of this language, and I wish to thank Financial Services Chairwoman Maxine Waters for her steadfast support of these vital institutions that serve so many communities that large banks would leave behind. It is because of Chair Waters’ advocacy and the dedication of the Committee staff that this critical program has been incorporated into this final legislative package of 2020.” H.R. 133 provides a second round of direct economic relief payments, expanded unemployment insurance, $325 billion in small business assistance, $25 billion in rental assistance, a federal eviction moratorium, $13 billion in nutrition assistance, as well as paid sick leave for workers infected with coronavirus or impacted by school closures due to coronavirus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-green-votes-yes-hr-133,Congressman Al Green Votes Yes on H.R. 133,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Al Green,G000553,algreen.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On Monday, December 21, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement on the passage of H.R. 133: Similar to my legislation H.R. 6868, to establish a Community Capital Investment Program, H.R. 133 includes $9 billion to fund an Emergency Capital Investment Program (ECIP) administered by the Department of the Treasury. Funds may be used: (1) to provide direct and indirect capital investment in minority depository institutions (MDIs) as well as community development financial institutions (CDFIs); and (2) by eligible financial institutions to provide loans, grants, and forbearance to small businesses, minority-owned businesses, and consumers, particularly in low- and moderate-income (LMI) areas and underserved communities that may be disproportionately impacted by the pandemic's economic effects, stated Congressman Al Green after voting YES' to H.R. 133, the relief package and omnibus passed by Congress. Repayment will be deferred for at least five years, and participants must maintain or significantly expand lending or investment activity to LMI minority communities. Congressman Green, who has been a strong proponent of MDIs and CDFIs for their work in often underbanked LMI communities, added, I am enormously thankful for the inclusion of this language, and I wish to thank Financial Services Chairwoman Maxine Waters for her steadfast support of these vital institutions that serve so many communities that large banks would leave behind. It is because of Chair Waters' advocacy and the dedication of the Committee staff that this critical program has been incorporated into this final legislative package of 2020. H.R. 133 provides a second round of direct economic relief payments, expanded unemployment insurance, $325 billion in small business assistance, $25 billion in rental assistance, a federal eviction moratorium, $13 billion in nutrition assistance, as well as paid sick leave for workers infected with coronavirus or impacted by school closures due to coronavirus. Congressman Green concluded, saying, While I am aware that this combined COVID-relief/omnibus package does not do nearly enough to eliminate the suffering that our nation is experiencing during this unprecedented crisis, I do believe this is a good faith effort to help remove some of the pain.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://allred.house.gov/media/press-releases/allred-votes-covid-relief-bipartisan-spending-agreement-fund-vaccine,Allred Votes for COVID Relief In Bipartisan Spending Agreement to Fund Vaccine Distribution and Aid Small Businesses and Workers,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Colin Allred,A000376,allred.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32) today voted to pass a bipartisan COVID relief package. The relief package was included with bipartisan Appropriations bills which will fund the government through September 30, 2021. The package provides funding for vaccine distribution, more aid to small businesses, assistance for airline industry workers and expands unemployment benefits. I have been clear since the beginning of this pandemic on the need for bold action to help North Texans who are struggling through no fault of their own, said Allred. This deal is long overdue but I'm glad we could come to an agreement, especially before the holidays. I fought hard for many of the provisions in this package. As we move forward with the new Biden Administration, I hope this spending agreement will foster a productive year ahead for Congress. A once in a generation pandemic calls for us to work together on a once in a generation response. I will continue to do whatever I can to ensure North Texas gets the resources we need. Allred has repeatedly called for action to help the American people and was supportive of the bipartisan Senate framework that helped jumpstart negotiations of the COVID relief package. Allred also voted twice to pass the Heroes Act to provide relief to North Texans. In addition to funding for COVID testing and vaccine distribution, the COVID relief package includes bipartisan, bicameral legislation to end surprise medical billing for emergency and scheduled care, an effort Allred has long championed. The bipartisan COVID deal: Accelerates vaccine distribution: The package provides billions in urgently needed funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as soon as possible, implements a strong national testing and tracing strategy with billions reserved specifically for combating the disparities facing communities of color and supports our heroic health care workers and providers. Provides strong support for small business: The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, including important changes to make the program work better for restaurants. It also includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions and $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. Provides additional direct payments: The package provides a new round of economic impact payments worth up to $600 per adult and child. Restores enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits: The agreement adds $300 per week in UI enhancement, providing a vital safety net for the record number of Americans who are unemployed, including those connected to the gig-economy and independent contractors. Extends rental assistance: The package provides $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and extends the eviction moratorium. Provides additional assistance for airline industry workers: The agreement provides an additional $15 billion in payroll support to airlines and restores jobs for thousands of furloughed airline industry workers. Supports paid sick leave: The agreement provides a tax credit to support employers offering paid sick leave, based on the Families First framework. Provides nutrition assistance for hungry families: The agreement includes $13 billion for SNAP and child nutrition benefits to help relieve the historic hunger crisis that has left up to 17 million children food insecure. Supports our schools and child care providers: The agreement provides $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open. Strengthens Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit: The agreement helps ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income, preserving these vital income supports for vulnerable families. See the summary of the COVID relief package from the Appropriations Committee here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://babin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6869,Babin Commits to Jan. 6 Electoral College Objections and Demands Action,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Brian Babin,B001291,babin.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) issued the following statement after sending a letter with 18 House colleagues requesting a hearing to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, and several relevant House and Senate committee chairs. According to the Constitution and federal statutes, resolving federal election contests for the President, the Senate, and the House falls under the jurisdiction of Congress. The letter urges House and Senate leadership to investigate and conduct hearings regarding voter fraud and election theft so that Congress is fully equipped to address the legality of the November 3, 2020 election. Confidence in our election process must be restored, said Babin. It is my duty to do everything in my power to ensure that every legal vote is counted, every illegal vote is not, and our elections remain transparent. Our democracy will not survive otherwise. If Congress refuses to act before January 6, I will object to the electoral college vote submissions on the House floor on behalf of the millions of Americans, myself included, who do not trust the validity of this election. Signers of the letter:Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36), Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05), Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Congressman Mike Rogers (AL-03), Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03), Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07), Congressman Paul Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04), Congressman Ted Budd (NC-13), Congressman Lance Gooden (TX-05), Congressman Bob Gibbs (OH-07),Congressman Ralph Norman (SC-05), Congressman Gregory Steube (FL-17), Congressman Jody Hice (GA-10), Congressman Mike Kelly (PA-16), Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Congressman Louie Gohmert (TX-01), Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14), Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04), and Congressman Mike Garcia (CA-25). To view the letter, click here. View full text of the letter below: December 16, 2020 The Honorable Mitch McConnell Senate Majority Leader 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Lindsey Graham Chairman Committee on the Judiciary United States Senate 224 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Roy Blunt Chairman Committee on Rules and Administration United States Senate 260 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Ron Johnson Chairman Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee United States Senate 340 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Nancy Pelosi Speaker of the House of Representatives 1236 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 The Honorable Jerrold L. Nadler Chairman Committee on the Judiciary U.S. House of Representatives 2138 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 The Honorable Zoe Lofgren Chairperson Committee on House Administration U.S. House of Representatives 1309 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 The Honorable Carolyn Maloney Chairwoman Oversight and Reform Committee U.S. House of Representatives 2157 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Leader McConnell, Chairman Blunt, Chairman Graham, Chairman Johnson, Speaker Pelosi, Chairperson Lofgren, Chairman Nadler, and Chairwoman Maloney: Constitution Article I, Section 4 (the Election Clause) empowers Congress to set the times, places and manner of elections involving federal elected officials. State legislatures are similarly empowered to set the times, places and manner of elections provided they do not conflict with the laws of Congress. There are countless incontestable examples wherein governors, election officials, and judges altered states' election procedures in violation of the Constitution's Election Clause, in conflict with Congressional acts setting the times, places and manner of elections, and in conflict with legislative acts similarly setting the times, places and manner of elections. What is unknown is the exact extent to which these violations of Article I, Section 4 illegally affected and altered federal elections within various states. Constitution Article 1, Section 5 empowers the House and Senate to be the Judge of the Elections, Returns and Qualifications of its own Members. United States Code Title 3, Chapter 1 states the process by which electoral college electors' votes are communicated to Congress and the procedures by which Congress accepts or rejects states' electoral college vote submissions (3 U.S.C. 15). The sum and substance of the above Constitutional and statutory provisions is that Congress is the final and ultimate judge, jury and arbiter of all contested Congressional, Senatorial, and Presidential elections. The House of Representatives has already received notice of, and shall be the Judge of, an election contest in Iowa. Similarly, the presidential election has been the subject of dozens of lawsuits alleging voter fraud, illegal voting, and election theft which, on January 6, 2021, may or will be the subject of extensive floor debate as Congress determines whether to accept or reject various states' electoral college vote submissions. To date, and as would be expected because federal elected office contest duties lie with Congress, federal courts and the Supreme Court have had no trials on, no substantive evidentiary hearings on, and declined to rule on the merits of numerous voter fraud, illegal voting and election theft allegations in dozens of lawsuits. America's republic is dependent on the actual and perceived honesty and accuracy of the elections which are the underpinning of all republics. Inasmuch as it is inevitable that Congress will face one or more election contests, likely to include that for President of the United States, we, the undersigned, request that your committees do their jobs on behalf of our country and immediately and without delay hold all evidentiary and other hearings necessary to fully investigate and probe the anomalies of the 2020 general election so that Congressmen and Senators will be fully informed as we face contests and questions about the legitimacy and validity of all federal elections held on November 3, 2020. This request has particular urgency due to federal law mandating that all objections to the receipt of various state electoral college vote submissions be made on January 6, 2021. Therefore, we ask that you immediately convene and hold hearings that: 1. probe all allegations of illegal conduct concerning the November 3, 2020 elections. 2. investigate systemic problems affecting our elections. 3. hear from election experts to explore legislative solutions that lessen the impact of fraudulent and illegal votes and restores faith that America can hold a free and fair election. We look forward to your prompt action on these matters that are critical to America's continued existence as a republic. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/so-much-virus-need-relief-package-too-little-too-late,"With So Much Virus & Need, Relief Package is Too Little, Too Late",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"***For Immediate Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 21, 2020 Contact:Kate Stotesbery 202-494-4620 With So Much Virus & Need, Relief Package is Too Little, Too Late Washington, D.C. U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the House Ways & Means Health Subcommittee, released this statement on the upcoming House vote today on the COVID relief package and government funding: With so much virus and so much need, this 5,593-page, complex bill really is too little, too late! Modest help for many who are struggling, important funding for vaccine distribution, but some sorry provisions and many omissions. This results not from a failure by Congress,' but specifically from a prolonged refusal by Republicans in Congress to negotiate and their rejection of the amount and types of assistance necessary to meet growing needs.Hopefully, we at least are providing the limited assistance required by those most in need to make it until we have a new, humane Administration. ### Follow Congressman Doggett Facebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/so-much-virus-need-relief-package-too-little-too-late,"With So Much Virus & Need, Relief Package is Too Little, Too Late",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,doggett,https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the House Ways & Means Health Subcommittee, released this statement on the upcoming House vote today on the COVID relief package and government funding: ""With so much virus and so much need, this 5,593-page, complex bill really is too little, too late! Modest help for many who are struggling, important funding for vaccine distribution, but some sorry provisions and many omissions. This results not from a failure by ‘Congress,' but specifically from a prolonged refusal by Republicans in Congress to negotiate and their rejection of the amount and types of assistance necessary to meet growing needs. Hopefully, we at least are providing the limited assistance required by those most in need to make it until we have a new, humane Administration."" Follow Congressman Doggett",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://escobar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=552,Congresswoman Escobar Votes for Bipartisan Agreement on COVID-19 Relief,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Veronica Escobar,E000299,escobar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) voted for H.R. 133, the fiscal year 2021 appropriations omnibus agreement which includes a $900 billion bipartisan emergency coronavirus relief package. The effects of the coronavirus pandemic in El Paso have been catastrophic and deeply painful: over 1,300 El Pasoans have died, more than 8,000 filed for unemployment in November, and 1 in 5 children are suffering from food insecurity. From the early days of this deadly pandemic, I have sounded the alarm about the crushing impact this would have on minority communities like ours and have advocated and voted for critical relief legislation to protect the lives and livelihoods of El Paso families, workers, and small businesses. This time is no different, said Congresswoman Escobar. There's no doubt that this emergency coronavirus relief legislation falls far short of meaningfully addressing our numerous priorities; however, the bill provides important and immediate relief that we urgently need in order to avoid further devastation. This $900 billion package will prevent an eviction crisis, secure rent, food, enhanced unemployment funds and direct payments for families including mixed-status families and accelerate the free and equitable distribution of the vaccine. I know El Pasoans desperately need and deserve more. I will continue to work for bigger and bolder relief legislation and work in the upcoming months with the Biden-Harris administration to combat the coronavirus and alleviate the pain our families, community, and economy are facing. Below are some of the COVID-19 relief priorities Congresswoman Escobar and Democrats in Congress fought to include in the year-end funding package: Accelerating vaccine distribution and crushing the coronavirus: The bipartisan COVID-19 relief package finally recognizes that we cannot get our economy working unless we can get the coronavirus under control. The package provides billions in urgently need funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as soon as possible, to implement a strong national testing and tracing strategy with billions reserved specifically for combating the disparities facing communities of color, and to support our heroic health care workers and providers. Strong support for small business: Congresswoman Escobar and Democrats in Congress secured critical funding and policy changes to help small businesses, including minority-owned businesses, and nonprofits recover from the pandemic. The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofits and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants, and includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions. The agreement also includes $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. Community Development Financial Institutions and Minority Depository Institutions: The agreement includes dedicated PPP set-asides for very small businesses and lending through community-based lenders like Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs); $9 billion in emergency U.S. Treasury capital investments in CDFIs and MDIs to support lending in low-income and underserved communities, including persistent poverty counties, that may be disproportionately impacted by the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; and $3 billion in emergency support for CDFIs through the CDFI Fund to respond to the economic impact of the pandemic on underserved low-income and minority communities. Rental assistance: Congresswoman Escobar and Democrats in Congress secured $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium. Strengthens the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit: The package enhances the LIHTC to help increase affordable housing construction and provide greater certainty to new and ongoing affordable housing projects. Direct payment checks: Despite opposition from Republicans in Congress, Democrats secured a new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, also ensuring that mixed-status families receive payments. Strengthened Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit: The agreement helps ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income, preserving these vital income supports for vulnerable families. Supports paid sick leave: The agreement provides a tax credit to support employers offering paid sick leave, based on the Families First framework. Employee Retention Tax Credit: The agreement extends and improves the Employee Retention Tax Credit to help keep workers in the jobs during coronavirus closures or reduced revenue. Enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits: Democrats averted the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance benefits for millions and added a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work. Nutrition assistance for hungry families: Congresswoman Escobar and Democrats in Congress secured $13 billion in increased SNAP and child nutrition benefits to help relieve the historic hunger crisis that has left up to 17 million children food insecure. Additionally, the package includes $400 million for food banks and $130 million for FEMA's Emergency Food and Shelter program. Relieving grieving families: Congresswoman Escobar and Democrats in Congress secured up to $2 billion in FEMA assistance through states for families with funeral expenses due to COVID-19 through December 31, 2020. Education and child care: The agreement provides $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms, and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open. Global Health: Democrats secured an additional $3.36 billion for a total of $4 billion for GAVI, the international vaccine alliance, recognizing that we are not truly safe until the whole world is safe from the coronavirus. A summary of the Bipartisan Agreement on COVID-19 Relief available here, and the bill texts is available here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fletcher.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2878,Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Votes in Support of Bipartisan COVID Relief and Year-End Appropriations Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lizzie Fletcher,F000468,fletcher.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) voted in support of H.R. 133, the bipartisan year-end spending bill with critical COVID-19 relief. Among its provisions, the bill includes language from Fletcher's bipartisan legislation, the Protecting the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Act of 2020, to support small businesses by ensuring eligible expenses paid by the PPP would be tax-deductible. Recently, Fletcher led a bipartisan effort in the House with more than 170 colleagues to ensure this bill would be included in any year-end legislation. The legislation also authorizes the expansion of the Port of Houston, which Fletcher has been working with a bipartisan coalition to secure in her role on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee's Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee. H.R. 133 passed the House of Representatives. This has been a difficult and challenging year by all measures. The health and economic impacts of this pandemic continue to be staggering, affecting all aspects of our lives and our livelihoods, and our communities continue to bear the brunt of responding to this public health emergency. While I'm glad that the House and Senate have finally reached bipartisan consensus to provide COVID relief, this agreement leaves critical needs unmet, and there will be much more work to do. For now, this bill provides some desperately needed aidmeasures that people in our communities have called for, including expanded unemployment benefits for those who have lost their jobs, support for small businesses through the PPP program, stimulus payments for American families, rental assistance, and funding for SNAP to help reduce hunger in our communities. Additionally, the year-end appropriations package includes important provisions for our communityincluding authorization to expand the Port of Houston and bipartisan legislation to end surprise medical billing. I'm glad this bill includes among its many provisions my bipartisan legislation to help small businesses during this time by making certain expenses paid through PPP loans eligible for tax deductions. Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and this provision reverses misguided IRS guidance that would have hurt small businesses in my district and across the country. H.R. 133 contains the following COVID-19 relief provisions: Economic Impact Payments:$600 per adult and child. Enhanced Unemployment Insurance Benefits:averts expiration of Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits for millions and restores a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans who are out of work. Paycheck Protection Funding:$284 billion for a new and second-round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans; a simplified loan forgiveness process for PPP loans under $150,000; key modifications to PPP to better serve the smallest businesses, struggling non-profits, and independent restaurants; and $15 billion in dedicated funding for entertainment venues and cultural institutions. Small Business Grants:$20 billion for targeted EIDL grants of $10,000. Nutrition Assistance:$13 billion in increased SNAP and child nutrition benefits to help relieve the hunger crisis. Rental Assistance:$25 billion for rental assistance and an extension of the eviction moratorium. Education and Child Care:$82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms, and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open. Broadband Access:$7 billion to increase access to broadband, including a new Emergency Broadband Benefit to help millions of students, families and unemployed workers afford the broadband they need during the pandemic. Vaccine Distribution: Billions in funding to accelerate vaccine distribution and to implement a strong national testing and tracing strategy. The year-end appropriations package also includes: Bipartisan legislation to end surprise billing for emergency and scheduled care; The Water Resources Development Act of 2020, including Fletcher's priorities to authorize the widening of the Houston Ship Channel and investing in its maintenance; and Energy provisions for research and development programs that increase federal support necessary to develop energy technology for the next century that our region is well-positioned to utilize.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fletcher.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2879,Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Highlights Critical Energy Innovation Provisions Included in Year-End Appropriations Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lizzie Fletcher,F000468,fletcher.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) announced that several key provisions to support energy innovation in Houston were included in H.R. 133, the year-end appropriations bill. As Chair of the Energy Subcommittee of the House Science, Space, and Technology (SS&T) Committee, Fletcher worked in committee to pass bipartisan bills to modernize pipeline infrastructure, promote energy technology innovation, and support carbon capture utilization and storage technology. H.R. 133, which passed the House earlier today, includes several of Fletcher's priorities, including an extension of the Alternative Fuels Tax Credit, modernized regulations and a new pilot safety program at the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), and investments for fossil energy research and development and clean energy technology innovation. The United States leads in energy production and innovation. To ensure that we continue to lead the global energy economy, it is vital that Congress supports the type of innovation and ingenuity in these programs, said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. I was glad to work with my colleagues to pass several bipartisan provisions in this year's appropriations package, including legislation to modernize pipeline safety regulations, incentivize the use of natural gas, and invest in carbon capture technologywhich is critical to carbon reduction efforts. Fletcher added: To meet our climate and energy objectives, we must invest in research and development of innovative technologies. As the center of the energy expertise and innovation in the country, the Houston region is well-positioned to utilize the support provided through this bill and chart the course for our energy future. Specifically, H.R. 133 incorporates the following: Alternative Fuel Tax Credit Extension: A one-year extension of the Alternative Fuels Tax Credit, which incentivizes the innovation of alternative fuels used as motor fuel, including compressed natural gas (CNG), liquified natural gas (LNG), and renewable natural gas (RNG). Last year, Fletcher introduced the bipartisan AFTC Extension Act of 2019 to renew this lapsed tax credit. New Pipeline Safety Enhancement Pilot Program: Establishes a pipeline safety technology pilot program to evaluate innovative technologies and operational practices for pipelines at the Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). Fletcher first introduced this program as an amendment in the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee last year, and she led this bipartisan legislation in the House with Congressman Marc Veasey. Updated regulations at the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA): Updates PHMSA regulations to bring into line with modern advanced LNG export terminals. Fletcher put forth an amendment in committee reflecting this language. Fossil Energy Research and Development Act: Expands the Department of Energy's research, development, and large-scale demonstration of carbon removal technology, including carbon capture, utilization, and storage technology. Fletcher led this legislation with Representatives Mark Veasey (D-TX), David Schweikert (R-AZ), and Conor Lamb (D-PA). ARPA-E Reauthorization Act: Reauthorizes funding for the Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E), which helps to advance high-potential, high-impact energy technologies in the early stages of development, and expands its authority to work on projects relating to nuclear waste clean-up and management issues and projects to improve energy infrastructure. Fletcher was a co-sponsor of this legislation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kaygranger.house.gov/press-releases?ID=1A1E96E1-E7BE-47E7-85B0-8A87B4C0C7A7,"Granger Secures Funding for Key Local Defense Priorities, Jobs, and the Economy",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Kay Granger,G000377,kaygranger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Facebook Icon Google Plus Icon Instagram Icon LinkedIn Icon Twitter Icon YouTube Icon Vimeo Icon Clients Icon Email icon Map Icon Print Icon Quote Icon icon_share Carousel Arrow - Left Carousel Arrow - Right Home Media Press Releases Print",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kevinbrady.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404978,"Neal, Brady: This Bipartisan Agreement Provides Critical Support for American Workers",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Kevin Brady,B000755,kevinbrady.house.gov,,,legacy,"Neal, Brady: This Bipartisan Agreement Provides Critical Support for American Workers f t # e Washington, December 21, 2020 Washington, D.C. Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) and the top Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee Kevin Brady (R-TX) released the following statement after the House passed a year-end funding and COVID relief package: Thisbipartisan agreement provides critical support for American workers, families, and small businesses,Neal and Brady said. They will get more resources to help them through this pandemic, surprise medical bills will now be a thing of the past, and our doctors and health care providers will receive more funding as we continue our work to defeat this virus. Our Committee members and staff worked hard to ensure this finalbipartisan agreement delivered important relief, and we look forward to continuing our bipartisan work as a Committee in the new year. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-williams-votes-in-favor-of-bipartisan-bicameral-covid-19-relief-and,Rep. Williams Votes in Favor of Bipartisan-Bicameral COVID-19 Relief and Omnibus Package,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,williams,https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX-25) today released the following statement after voting in favor of the bipartisan-bicameral COVID-19 relief and omnibus package. ""This bipartisan legislation will ultimately have an immediate impact in the fight against and the recovery from COVID-19. Constituents from TX-25 scored several victories this evening and I am pleased to highlight many of those accomplishments. ""Live music venues were among the first to close and will be the last to reopen. To ensure these cultural staples will continue in our communities for generations to come, I am proud the Save Our Stages Act is included in the bill to deliver much needed grants for independent live music venues nationwide. Also included is a second round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding, which already saved over 58,000 TX-25 jobs and 6,000 businesses. House Republicans have called upon Speaker Pelosi and Leader Schumer to renew the PPP since August and I'm pleased that we will be delivering more funding for Main Street while allowing business owners to fully deduct these expenses from their taxes. ""Our distillers and craft beverage producers are also critical to the Central Texas economy and faced a devastating 400% tax increase at the end of this year. After months of urging Democratic leadership to help these business owners, we have permanently delayed the federal excise tax (FET) increase. I have also led efforts fighting for greater funding for rural broadband to ensure all corners of our TX-25 counties have access to reliable, high-quality internet and I am pleased to see $732 million in crucial funding allocated for rural areas nationwide. I will continue working to deliver targeted, tangible relief as Texans move forward together in the fight against COVID-19."" Background: Congressman Williams introduced the Save Our Stages Act in July to provide grants from the Small Business Administration to independent live music venues impacted by government mandates and safety restrictions. Williams has signed a discharge petition forcing Democratic leadership to consider repurposing the remaining Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds and has been a vocal advocate for PPP loan deductibility. In June, Williams sent a letter to House Leadership urging a vote on the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act, which would provide relief from the 400% tax increase for distillers and craft beverage producers. Provisions in the COVID-19 relief package include: $15 billion for the Save Our Stages Act $7 billion for broadband expansion, with $732 million for rural broadband $600 stimulus payments for the American people $48 billion for the purchase and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines nationwide $13 billion to support the agriculture sector Extends the Paycheck Protection Program and adds deductibility for PPP expenses Provisions in the omnibus include: Provides a 3% pay raise for the troops $1.375 billion in new funding for the wall and border security technology Rejects efforts to defund the police Maintains the Hyde Amendment and prohibits the creation or destruction of embryos for research purposes",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/save-our-stages-act-included-in-covid-19-relief-and-omnibus-package,Save Our Stages Act Included in COVID-19 Relief and Omnibus Package,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,williams,https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX-25) today praised the inclusion of the Save Our Stages Act in the bipartisan-bicameral COVID-19 relief and omnibus package: ""I am proud my bipartisan Save Our Stages Act is included in the latest COVID-19 relief bill. Live music venues were among the first to close and will be the last to reopen due to forced government closures and public health guidance that continues to be near impossible to overcome. To ensure these cultural staples will continue in our communities for generations to come, it was an honor and a privilege to work alongside Texas live venue owners, managers and artists since the outset of this pandemic- their tireless efforts were pivotal at every step. This bill will finally deliver a much needed lifeline as we move forward together – it is tremendous news for thousands of hardworking men and women across our nation who have been holding onto the hope that Congress would act,"" said Congressman Williams. ""In an era of partisan gridlock and deep frustrations within the system, Congressman Williams reached across party lines, truly SAVED our stages, theatres and museums, by building a bi-partisan coalition to truly represent the American people,"" said Blayne Tucker, Texas Precinct Captain for the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA). ""The unwavering support and original sponsorship of the Save Our Stages bill by Congressman Roger Williams has thrown our industry a critical lifeline. When we needed it most, he and the Texas delegation led the charge of protecting the live music community,"" said Edwin Cabaniss, Co-Founder & Chairman of the Music Venue Alliance of Texas. Congressman Williams previously called for inclusion of the bill in the COVID-19 relief and omnibus package. Click here to view Congressman Williams' remarks on the House floor calling for passage of the bill. Click here to view Congressman Williams' exclusive op-ed in the Austin American-Statesman. Click here to view support for the bill from artists, venue owners, and managers based in Texas.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://wright.house.gov/media/press-releases/wright-joins-colleagues-calling-gao-report-school-reopenings,Wright Joins Colleagues in Calling for GAO Report on School Reopenings,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Ron Wright,W000827,wright.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. On Friday, Congressman Ron Wright (R-TX) joined a letter led by Reps. Banks (R-IN) and Tiffany (R-WI) requesting the Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on how states and school districts have used federal CARES Act funding to reopen elementary and secondary schools: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented disruptions to American education. Many of the nation's school districts have been closed to in-person learning since the spring and some school districts have not announced any plan or timeline for reopening in 2021. Millions of American children have not been in a classroom since the spring. A recent report from NWEA demonstrated that significant learning loss has already occurred. That report also pointed out that initial data could be understating learning loss because of missing data from some of our nation's most vulnerable students, said the Members of Congress. [] Congress and the American people want assurances that funds are being used to address the urgent need to reopen schools and support remote learning while schools are closed. Background: In March, Congress provided more than $16 billion in emergency funding for education through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. The Department of Education recently launched a portal to provide better transparency related to how states and school districts are using these resources. This report will provide additional details about the information contained in this portal and the extent to which states and school districts have used these taxpayer funds to safely reopen schools. Read the full letter below, or read it online here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn%E2%80%99s-key-texas-priorities-covid-relief-included-government-funding-bill,"Cornyn’s Key Texas Priorities, COVID Relief Included in Government Funding Bill",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today announced that he has successfully included his priorities for Texas listed below in the targeted coronavirus relief package and FY21 Omnibus Appropriations bill, which funds the federal government through September 30, 2021. The Senate will likely vote on this bill this evening, and video of Sen. Cornyn's remarks on the legislation can be found here. This has been a difficult year for millions of families in Texas, and across the country, as parents have worried about how to pay bills and buy groceries, let alone Christmas gifts under their tree for their children. I know this will not erase all of the financial uncertainty, but it will go a long way to provide some help to those whose livelihoods have been thrown into chaos, said Sen. Cornyn. I appreciate the work of our colleagues who fought for a deal that will give our country added strength during this next critical phase of our fight, and I look forward to voting for this legislation. Relief for Texans During the Pandemic: Provides direct financial assistance to Texans: Provides individuals making up to $75,000 with a $600 check and an additional $600 for each eligible child. A family of four making up to $150,000 will receive $2,400 Extends the eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021 and provides $25 billion in temporary and targeted rental assistance for those who lost their source of income during the pandemic Expands unemployment insurance (UI) for Texas workers: Provides an extra $300 weekly federal UI benefit on top of the state maximum temporarily Assists the health care industry's response: Provides $19.695 billion for the purchase, development, and production of vaccines and $8.75 billion for vaccine distribution, administration, and monitoring Provides $22.4 billion to assist states with testing and containment Reauthorizes the Community Health Centers program for three years and provides $1.68 billion in appropriated funds. Provides $3.25 billion for the Strategic National Stockpile of PPE and other critical supplies Provides $3 billion for the Provider Relief Fund Provides $4.25 billion for substance abuse and mental health treatment and prevention Supports Texans in rural areas: Includes $300 million to build out rural broadband Provides an additional $250 million for telehealth Provides $11.2 billion in funding for agricultural assistance to support farmers, ranchers, logging and timber, textile mills, and producers. Provides $1 billion in repurposed funding for agricultural losses due to previous natural disasters. Provides for Texas education, childcare, and nutrition: Provides $10 billion for childcare centers Allocates $82 billion in funding to support students, teachers, schools, and families, including: $54.3 billion to help elementary and secondary schools safely re-open or remain open; $22.7 billion to support students and institutions of higher education; And $4.1 billion as part of the Governors Fund to give states flexible funding to address students' needs from early childhood through college Continues and provides additional waivers and flexibility for School Nutrition Programs, of which two-thirds of Texas school children participate in Provides $400 million in funding for the Emergency Food Assistance Program and $1.5 billion for the purchase of food and commodities to help Texas food banks meet unprecedented demand Includes a six-month increase in supplemental food benefits for low-income Texans Supporting Texas Workers & Job Creators: Paycheck Protection Program (PPP): Provides more than $250 billion to replenish the program, which provides loans to allow small businesses to maintain their payroll, hire back laid-off employees, and cover interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities Save Our Stages Act: Provides Small Business Administration grants totaling $15 billion for entertainment venue operators affected by COVID-19 stay-at-home orders in order to keep venues afloat, pay employees, and preserve a critical economic sector Small Business Expense Protection Act: Clarifies the Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) so small businesses can deduct expenses paid with a forgiven PPP loan from their taxes Extension of the Donation Acceptance Program: Provides a one-year extension of this program promoting public-private partnerships to boost staffing and make infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry without adding to the national deficit Protecting Texas Children: Strengthening Texas' Energy Sector: Preserving Texans' History:",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-braun-praise-inclusion-ppp-loan-deduction-small-businesses-year-end-covid-relief,"Cornyn, Braun Praise Inclusion of PPP Loan Deduction for Small Businesses in Year-End COVID Relief Bill",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mike Braun (R-IN) praised the inclusion of the Small Business Expense Protection Act, which would clarify the Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) so small businesses can deduct expenses paid with a forgiven PPP loan from their taxes, in the omnibus funding legislation: The Paycheck Protection Program has been a lifeline to small businesses in Texas struggling to stay afloat during the pandemic, said Sen. Cornyn. By clarifying that expenses paid with a forgiven PPP loan can still be deducted from small businesses' taxes, we can help ensure small businesses won't be hit with yet another hardship during an already difficult year. As a Main Street Entrepreneur focused on solutions, I've introduced legislation in May to safeguard small businesses. The CARES Act was intended as a lifeline to small businesses, but forcing them to shoulder tax liability for these forgivable loans would be like throwing them a cinder block. I'm glad Senator Cornyn and I have been able to get this much needed fix past the finish line for the American People, said Sen. Braun. Background: The intent of the Paycheck Protection Program, which was created in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, was to maximize small businesses' ability to maintain liquidity, retain their employees, and recover from the pandemic as soon as possible. However, the IRS issued a notice that said small businesses cannot deduct these business expenses. This notice is contrary to congressional intent, which this legislation would clarify.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-covid-relief-bill-will-send-recovery-checks-mixed-status-families,Cornyn: COVID Relief Bill Will Send Recovery Checks to Mixed Status Families,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today announced that the COVID relief deal the Senate will vote on tonight provides $600 recovery checks to all citizens earning up to $75,000 per year, including citizens married to foreign nationals who were left out of the last round of $1,200 recovery checks in the CARES Act. In addition, these citizens will be eligible for the initial round of recovery checks when they file their 2020 tax return. Texans need relief now, said Sen. Cornyn. The economic impact of the pandemic, just like the virus itself, does not discriminate based on immigration status of one's spouse, and we shouldn't either when it comes to sending recovery checks to U.S. citizens. Earlier this year, Sen. Cornyn announced his support for the American Citizen Coronavirus Relief Act to retroactively send economic recovery checks authorized by the CARES Act to Texans who did not originally qualify because their spouse is a foreign national and do not have a Social Security Number.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-priorities-covid-relief-pass-government-funding-bill,"Cornyn Priorities, COVID Relief Pass in Government Funding Bill",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) supported the passage of the targeted coronavirus relief package and FY21 Omnibus Appropriations bill, which funds the federal government through September 30, 2021 and includes many priorities important to Texas: Relief for Texans During the Pandemic: Provides direct financial assistance to Texans: Provides individuals making up to $75,000 with a $600 check and an additional $600 for each eligible child. A family of four making up to $150,000 will receive $2,400 Extends the eviction moratorium until January 31, 2021 and provides $25 billion in temporary and targeted rental assistance for those who lost their source of income during the pandemic Expands unemployment insurance (UI) for Texas workers: Provides an extra $300 weekly federal UI benefit on top of the state maximum temporarily Assists the health care industry's response: Provides $19.695 billion for the purchase, development, and production of vaccines and $8.75 billion for vaccine distribution, administration, and monitoring Provides $22.4 billion to assist states with testing and containment Reauthorizes the Community Health Centers program for three years and provides $1.68 billion in appropriated funds. Provides $3.25 billion for the Strategic National Stockpile of PPE and other critical supplies Provides $3 billion for the Provider Relief Fund Provides $4.25 billion for substance abuse and mental health treatment and prevention Supports Texans in rural areas: Includes $300 million to build out rural broadband Provides an additional $250 million for telehealth Provides $11.2 billion in funding for agricultural assistance to support farmers, ranchers, logging and timber, textile mills, and producers. Provides $1 billion in repurposed funding for agricultural losses due to previous natural disasters. Provides for Texas education, childcare, and nutrition: Provides $10 billion for childcare centers Allocates $82 billion in funding to support students, teachers, schools, and families, including: $54.3 billion to help elementary and secondary schools safely re-open or remain open; $22.7 billion to support students and institutions of higher education; And $4.1 billion as part of the Governors Fund to give states flexible funding to address students' needs from early childhood through college Continues and provides additional waivers and flexibility for School Nutrition Programs, of which two-thirds of Texas school children participate in Provides $400 million in funding for the Emergency Food Assistance Program and $1.5 billion for the purchase of food and commodities to help Texas food banks meet unprecedented demand Includes a six-month increase in supplemental food benefits for low-income Texans Supporting Texas Workers & Job Creators: Paycheck Protection Program (PPP): Provides more than $250 billion to replenish the program, which provides loans to allow small businesses to maintain their payroll, hire back laid-off employees, and cover interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities Save Our Stages Act: Provides Small Business Administration grants totaling $15 billion for entertainment venue operators affected by COVID-19 stay-at-home orders in order to keep venues afloat, pay employees, and preserve a critical economic sector Small Business Expense Protection Act: Clarifies the Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) so small businesses can deduct expenses paid with a forgiven PPP loan from their taxes Extension of the Donation Acceptance Program: Provides a one-year extension of this program promoting public-private partnerships to boost staffing and make infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry without adding to the national deficit Protecting Texas Children: Strengthening Texas' Energy Sector: Preserving Texans' History:",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405981,Rep. Cuellars Statement on Coronavirus Relief and Omnibus Agreement,2020-12-20,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Cuellar's Statement on Coronavirus Relief and Omnibus Agreement Congressman will vote on Monday to save the lives and livelihoods of the American people Washington, D.C.Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement after Congress reached an agreement on coronavirus relief and omnibus package: It is my top priority to ensure that American families and communities are safe, healthy and financially secure as we continue to battle this pandemic, said Congressman Cuellar. I will be voting for this package tomorrow so we can get working families, small businesses and front line workers the relief they desperately need. The cost of inaction is far too high. This bipartisan legislation takes bold, far-reaching steps that the coronavirus crisis demands and that the American people deserve. As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to provide support and fund the necessary resources to working families in my district, my state, and across the nation as we address this public health and economic crisis. Accelerating vaccine distribution and crushing the coronavirus: The package provides billions in urgently need funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as soon as possible, to implement a strong national testing and tracing strategy with billions reserved specifically for combating the disparities facing certain communities, and to support our heroic health care workers and providers. Ends surprise billing: The package includes bipartisan, bicameral legislation that will end surprise billing for emergency and scheduled care. Strong support for small business: The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofits and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants,and includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions. The agreement also includes $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. Community Development Financial Institutions and Minority Depository Institutions: The agreement includes dedicated PPP set-asides for very small businesses and lending through community-based lenders like Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs); $9 billion in emergency U.S. Treasury capital investments in CDFIs and MDIs to support lending in low-income and underserved communities, including persistent poverty counties, that may be disproportionately impacted by the economic effects of the COVID19 pandemic; and $3 billion in emergency support for CDFIs through the CDFI Fund to respond to the economic impact of the pandemic on underserved low-income and minority communities. Rental assistance: $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium. Strengthens the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit: The package enhances the LIHTC to help increase affordable housing construction and provide greater certainty to new and ongoing affordable housing projects. Direct payment checks: A new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, also ensuring that mixed-status families receive payments. Strengthened Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit: The agreement helps ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income, preserving these vital income supports for vulnerable families. Supports paid sick leave: The agreement provides a tax credit to support employers offering paid sick leave, based on the Families First framework. Employee Retention Tax Credit: The agreement extends and improves the Employee Retention Tax Credit to help keep workers in the jobs during coronavirus closures or reduced revenue. Enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits: Averts the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance benefits for millions and added a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work. Nutrition assistance for hungry families: $13 billion in increased SNAP and child nutrition benefits to help relieve the historic hunger crisis that has left up to 17 million children food insecure. Education and childcare: The agreement provides $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms, and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open. Historic expansion of Pell Grants: The package includes the largest expansion of Pell Grant recipients in over a decade, reaching 500,000 new recipients and ensuring more than 1.5 million students will now receive the maximum benefit. Broadband access: The agreement invests $7 billion to increase access to broadband, including a new Emergency Broadband Benefit to help millions of students, families and unemployed workers afford the broadband they need during the pandemic. Fights the climate crisis: The agreement includes sweeping clean energy reforms, R&D enhancements, efficiency incentives, and extends clean energy tax credits to create hundreds of thousands of jobs across the clean economy. The package also phases out superpollutant HFCs, positioning the U.S. to lead the world in avoiding up to 0.5 degree Celsius of global warming.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://roy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-roy-statement-voting-against-hj-res-110,Rep. Roy statement on voting against H.J. Res. 110,2020-12-20,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,Chip Roy,R000614,roy.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Chip Roy (TX-21) issued the following statement after voting against H.J. Res. 110, Extension of Continuing Appropriations Act, 2021: Once again, the powers that be demanded that we extend the self-imposed deadline they once again failed to meet, and they expected us to do it by spending billions of taxpayer dollars without holding a recorded vote. I was proud to join my friend Andy Biggs on the floor to say no to that—and to say no to spending at levels that have busted spending caps multiple times over. A vote for this resolution was a vote to legitimize a broken, closed-door negotiations ""process"" that robs the American people of their seat at the table by keeping their representatives in the dark until the very last minute. Tomorrow we will be asked to vote on a $2.4 trillion bill—or bills—which we still have not seen and that will be filled with thousands of pages expanding federal programs that literally harm the very nation we are supposed to serve.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-covid-relief-deal-close,Cornyn: COVID Relief Deal Close,2020-12-20,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) stressed the importance of avoiding a government shutdown during the pandemic and wrapping up negotiations on government funding and coronavirus relief in a timely manner. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn's remarks are below, and video can be found here. I hope we do this responsibly and not just quickly. But we do know the American people are suffering, and this is not time for politics or delay for delay's sake. This is a time to come to together, to compromise, and to make good on the commitment we've made to support the American people. I hope the signs that we are seeing sort of expecting smoke signals from some corners but the signs that we're all trying to read, the tea leaves and the like, I hope all this becomes a lot clearer today and we can chart a clear path forward to both government funding and coronavirus relief. So, Mr. President, as we all know, time is running out and Congress needs to take action and take action soon. We cannot add the stress of another government shutdown to a raging pandemic. It's time for us to come together and get this done for the American people.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=5529,"Sen. Cruz: 'We Urgently Need To Have a Real, Substantive, Bipartisan Conversation About Countering the Chinese Communist Party'",2020-12-19,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, this week took to the Senate Floor to object to Senate Democrats' shameless exploitation of the crisis in Hong Kong to undermine our immigration laws, which would recklessly enable Chinese espionage in the United States. Sen. Cruz instead offered Senate Democrats an opportunity to act against the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) propaganda by passing his SCRIPT Act. Senator Cruz also addressed China's human rights atrocities and spoke of the need to pass another one of his bills, the SHAME Act. During the debate, Democrats objected to the request to pass the SCRIPT Act. Watch Sen. Cruz's full remarks here. Excerpts are included below. WATCH: Cruz Calls Out Democrats for Exploiting Crisis in Hong Kong to Advance Political Agenda On Senate Democrats' efforts to exploit the crisis in Hong Kong to undermine existing U.S. immigration law, Sen. Cruz said: Today, we have good news and bad news. The good news is that our Democratic colleagues are finally discovering that the Chinese communists are not our friends. They are finally acknowledging that the Chinese communists are murdering, torturing, oppressive tyrants and our Democratic colleagues are likewise discovering that Hong Kong is a beacon for democracy, a beacon for liberty. That is indeed good news. The bad news is the bill that they have put forth is not designed to do anything about it. This is not a Hong Kong bill. It is instead a Democratic messaging bill, because House Democrats made, I think, a cynical decision to try to exploit the crisis in Hong Kong to advance their long standing goals [of] changing our immigration laws. On how Senate Democrats' partisan agenda threatens our national security, Sen. Cruz said: This bill [...] would dramatically lower the standards for both refugee and asylum status to the point where individuals would qualify even if they cannot establish an individualized and credible fear of persecution. [] There is particular risk when doing so we [because] we know [it] would be used by the Chinese communists to send even more Chinese spies into the United States. [] Last I checked, when the Chinese communist government sends spies into our country, they're quite willing to concoct a bogus background portfolio of materials. [] We just recently had news of Chinese spies targeting members of Congress, targeting prominent Democrats. This is an espionage threat America faces of our adversaries taking advantage of our laws and targeting our leadership. The truth also is that China has confiscated passports and I'm told, stopped issuing exit visas to persons deemed problematic. As a result, China is highly unlikely to let actual dissidents leave Hong Kong. [] We urgently need to have a real substantive bipartisan conversation about countering the Chinese Communist Party, about defending the United States of America, about standing up and winning this battle. This bill doesn't advance that objective. On the need to push back on the CCP's widespread censorship and propaganda efforts by passing the SCRIPT Act, Sen. Cruz said: The Chinese Communist Party spends billions and billions of dollars to mislead Americans about China, and to try to shape what we see, what we hear, and think. All of these activities are part of China's whole-of-state approach to amass influence around the world through information warfare. We need to stand together to stop it. [] The only reason the SCRIPT Act isn't passing is because the Senate Democrats are objecting. It should not be lost on anybody that the Hollywood billionaires who are enriching themselves with this Chinese propaganda are among the biggest political donors to today's Democratic Party. On the need to act against the CCP's human rights atrocities by passing the SHAME Act, Sen. Cruz said: The SHAME Act focuses in particular on human rights atrocities. It focuses on over a million Uyghurs in concentration camps and other religious minorities [like] the Falun Gong practitioners, who are captured and murdered and whose organs are harvested. [] My Democratic colleagues like to say on the question of abortion, they are pro-choice. Well, the Chinese government right now is engaging in forced sterilizations and forced abortions taking Uyghur mothers and forcing them to abort their children against their wills. Whatever the Democrats' views on abortion in the United States is a matter of a woman's choice, surely, they must be united in saying a government forcing a woman to abort her child, to take the life of her unborn child, is an unspeakable atrocity. The SHAME Act does something very simple it imposes sanctions on the Chinese Communist government leaders responsible for implementing this horrific 1984' style policy of forced sterilizations and forced abortions. Background: In October, Sen. Cruz introduced the Sanctioning and Highlighting Authoritarian Medicine and Eugenics (SHAME) Act, legislation sanctioning CCP officials for systematic ethnic cleansing, including through forced abortions and other coercive population control measures in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR). The legislation also requires the publication and maintenance of data about those officials, including their human rights records. Read the full text of the SHAME Act here. Earlier this year, Sen. Cruz introduced the The Stopping Censorship, Restoring Integrity, Protecting Talkies Act or SCRIPT Act, legislation to cut off Hollywood studios from assistance they receive from the United States government if those studios censor their films for screening in China. This legislation is part of Sen. Cruz's comprehensive push to combat China's growing influence over what Americans see and hear, which includes legislation targeting information warfare from the Chinese Communist Party across higher education, sports, films, radio broadcasts, and more. Read the full text of the SCRIPT Act here. Sen. Cruz is leading the charge to fundamentally reassess the U.S.-China relationship and counter Chinese censorship in the wake of the CCP coronavirus coverup. In August, the CCP announced their second set of sanctions against Sen. Cruz for speaking out against the horrific human rights abuses occurring in the authoritarian state. READ: Sen. Cruz on FoxNews.com: China Is Expanding Its Malign Influence All Over the World ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=video&id=5530,Cruz Calls Out Democrats for Exploiting Crisis in Hong Kong to Advance Political Agenda,2020-12-19,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Central TX (512) 916-5834 300 E 8th Suite 961 Austin, TX 78701 Email North TX (214) 599-8749 Lee Park Tower II 3626 N. Hall St. Suite 410 Dallas, TX 75219 Email Southeast TX (713) 718-3057 The Mickey Leland Federal Building 1919 Smith Street Suite 9047 Houston, TX 77002 Email South/Cen. TX (210) 340-2885 9901 IH-10W Suite 950 San Antonio, TX 78230 Email East TX (903) 593-5130305 S. Broadway Suite 501 Tyler, TX 75702 Email South TX (956) 686-7339 200 S. 10th St Suite 1603 McAllen, TX 78501 Email Washington, D.C. (202) 224-5922 127A Russell Washington, DC 20510 Contact",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=402994,Burgess: Moderna vaccine adds dose of hope for the new year,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health,released the following statement after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an Emergency Use Authorization for Moderna's novel Coronavirus 2019 vaccine. There is something special about this time of year and having a second Coronavirus vaccine approved for emergency use adds to the joy of the season, said Burgess. In a span of one week, we have witnessed two vaccines receive Emergency Use Authorizations from the FDA. This is a shining example of American resourcefulness and the successful work done through Operation Warp Speed. I want to thank President Trump for putting American innovation first, our scientists and medical community, and the countless volunteers who have stepped up during this pandemic to serve on the front lines. This second vaccine is a signal that we are nearing the end of this pandemic, but we cannot stop taking the proper precautions especially now that cold and flu season is in full swing. Please continue to wash your hands thoroughly, wear a mask if you are unable to properly social distance, and stay home if you are sick. At the start of this pandemic, America declared that we are in this together and together we will reach the end.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=402995,E&C Republican Leaders: Second EUA is a Testament to American Ingenuity,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"E&C Republican Leaders: Second EUA is a Testament to American Ingenuity Washington, D.C. Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader for the 116thCongress Greg Walden (R-OR), Republican Leader for the 117thCongress Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Health Subcommittee Republican Leader Dr. Michael Burgess (R-TX), and Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Republican Leader Brett Guthrie (R-KY) released the following statement after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued its second emergency use authorization (EUA) for a COVID-19 vaccine, this time authorizing Moderna's vaccine for distribution. In just one week, we've gone from zero authorized vaccines to two that have both exceeded the strong safety and efficacy standards set by the FDA. This is a true testament to American ingenuity and the work of President Trump's Operation Warp Speed, the scientific and public health communities, and the patients who have volunteered their time to participate in clinical trials. This week, all Americans felt hope when we saw brave front line health workers receive the first vaccines. As we said last week, this is the beginning of the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, but we owe it to every essential worker to continue handwashing and wearing masks. The United States of America will lead the world out of this pandemic, but we must continue doing our part to keep each other safe, said Walden, Rodgers, Burgess, and Guthrie. The EUA follows a strong 20-0 vote by a panel of non-political scientific experts tasked with reviewing Moderna's clinical trial safety and efficacy data. Last Friday, the Republican Leaders commented on the authorization of the Pfizer-BioNtech COVID-19 vaccine. Read that statement here. To read more about FDA's EUA process for vaccines click here. Read more about Operation Warp Speed here",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405974,Rep. Cuellars Statement on Decision to Restrict Public Attendance to Presidential Inaugural Ceremony,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) issued the following statement regarding the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) decision to restrict broad public attendance at the upcoming Presidential Inauguration Ceremony: My office has received many ticket requests from constituents throughout the district for the upcoming Presidential Inaugural Ceremony. I deeply appreciate the patience that has been shown to us as my office awaited more information from the inaugural committee. However, it has been confirmed that the upcoming inauguration will not include a broad public audience due to the ongoing pandemic. On January 20th, our nation as well as the world will witness an innovative and reimagined historic event as President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris are sworn-in to office; all while ensuring the health and safety of Americans. This was a decision made by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies in close consultation with public health, medical experts, and the Presidential Inaugural Committee. I applaud the decision to put Americans' safety first, and while I always look forward to having guests for inaugurations, we must be proactive in protecting the health of our community. To all those who have reached out to my office, I apologize for this inconvenience. Thank you again for your patience and may God bless the United States of America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=5526,"Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Applaud Senate's Passage of Bill Honoring Pearland Mayor Tom Reid",2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) today issued the following statements after the Senate passed their bill to rename a post office in Pearland, Texas, after Mayor Tom Reid, the city's long-serving mayor: I am proud that my colleagues and I in the Senate passed this bill to honor such a dedicated public servant, exceptional Texan, and American patriot, Sen. Cruz said. He served his community and our country with such distinction and this honor will ensure he is never forgotten. I congratulate Mayor Reid on his much earned retirement this past month. Thank you for your four decades of work for the city of Pearland and your service to our country. Mayor Reid's record of service to his nation and to Pearland deserves to be celebrated, and I'm proud to honor him with this recognition, said Sen. Cornyn. BACKGROUND In October, Sens. Cruz and Cornyn sent a letter to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs in support of U.S. Rep. Pete Olson's (R-Texas) bill to rename a Pearland, Texas post office after Mayor Reid. In addition to their letter, the senators sponsored and introduced the Senate companion bill. Houston native Tom Reid is a World War II veteran of the United States Navy and a former manager and supervisor at the Johnson Space Center on projects including Gemini, Apollo, Skylab, and the Space Shuttle Program. He then served as a Pearland city counselor before first being elected Mayor in 1978. Mayor Reid's exemplary public service to the city of Pearland spans more than 40 years, and he officially retired in November. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=5527,"Sen. Cruz on Senate Floor: 'On the Question of America Leading the World in Space, the United States Senate Speaks With One Voice'",2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Aviation and Space, today issued the following statement after the Senate unanimously passed the bipartisan NASA Authorization Act, legislation he authored with Sens. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.): ""As chairman of the Aviation and Space Subcommittee, I'm proud to once again lead this bipartisan legislation that continues to ensure America remains on the cutting edge of innovation and the manned exploration of space. I am grateful America's leadership in space remains an issue of such broad bipartisan agreement. A few months ago we witnessed the launch of the SpaceX Crew Dragon, the first launch of American astronauts from U.S. soil in nearly a decade, on the first commercially-created spacecraft in American history. That successful mission was a bright moment in an otherwise difficult and tumultuous year, and has united and inspired Americans to further human potential. ""These next 50 years in space have the potential to be even more consequential than the last 50 years, and the legislation we've passed today gives NASA the resources and direction it needs to face this new era, and the challenges that will come with it, with boldness. Not only will this legislation enhance our presence in low-Earth orbit, but will help Americans safely return to the moon, and put America's dreams of taking the first step on the surface of Mars directly on our horizon. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to strengthen America's leadership in the final frontier."" WATCH: Cruz on Senate Floor Celebrates Unanimous Passage of Bipartisan NASA Authorization Act Moments before the Senate approved the bill, Sen. Cruz delivered remarks on the Senate Floor praising the bipartisan collaboration that went into the legislation, and thanking his colleagues for passing the NASA Authorization Act unanimously. Watch his remarks here. Read his remarks below. ""Mr. President, in a few moments, I'm going to ask unanimous consent for the Senate to pass S. 2800, which is the bipartisan NASA Authorization Act. Before doing so, I want to make some brief remarks about how important this legislation is to American leadership in space and to our continued space exploration efforts. ""Well over a year ago, I joined with Chairman Wicker, Ranking Member Cantwell, and Aviation and Space Subcommittee Ranking Member Sinema, and we began writing the NASA Authorization Act. Using as a foundation the bipartisan bill that I had previously authored with Senators Cornyn, Rubio, Markey, and then-Senator Bill Nelson from the last Congress as our starting point, we solicited input from hundreds of stakeholders, from individuals and academics, to industry partners, and even our international allies. ""Hundreds of pages of suggestions, proposed edits, and comments were submitted. And over many months, our staffs worked diligently through each and every submission, trying to incorporate the feedback to the greatest extent possible. What resulted is this bill which was marked up last year and unanimously reported. What we have achieved together is legislation that enjoys deep and broad bipartisan support and that sets bold goals for NASA and the United States in space. It provides the direction and the infrastructure necessary to meet them. ""I'm very proud of the work that we've done together and of this legislation that we've assembled. And I want to express particular thanks to Senators Wicker, Cantwell, and Sinema, and to their staffs for their hard work. ""Our bill strengthens the United States' leadership in space, ensuring that we remain the default space exploration partner of the world. It extends the life of the International Space Station through to 2030, and it challenges us to be the international leader for Lunar and Mars exploration, and to reach new horizons. ""It's not just human exploration, though, Mr. President. By working in a collegial and good-faith manner, we were able to craft a product that strengthens all of NASA's core missions, something which benefits not just states with strong NASA equities, but every American. ""It is amazing what strong, unified leadership can do to bring the members of this body together - working to pass vitally important legislation that advances science, technology, national security, and the interests of our nation. ""So, Mr. President, I want to say again how grateful I am to my colleagues who worked on this bill with me and to state just how proud I am that the Senate is speaking with one unified voice in passing this legislation. This is following a tradition that we have seen [in] the past eight years I have served in this body, where on the question of space, we have seen over and over and over again strong bipartisan cooperation. Even at a time when partisan division pulls us apart in so many other areas, on the question of America leading the world in space, the United States Senate speaks with one voice. We have a real opportunity here to boldly shape the nation's space exploration efforts, to inspire new generations of little boys and little girls gazing up at the stars and wondering what's out there, and to make the United States a true space-faring nation. ""While this bill is not going to pass the House of Representatives during the remainder of this Congress, I look forward to the beginning of the next Congress where we can use this unanimously approved legislation as the starting point to move quickly to pass a comprehensive NASA Authorization Act across the finish line and get it signed into law. Therefore, Mr. President, as if in legislative session, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of calendar number 525, S. 2800."" BACKGROUND: The NASA Authorization Act would: Support NASA's human spaceflight and exploration efforts to return American astronauts to the Moon and prepare for future journeys to Mars. Extend authorization for the International Space Station (ISS) through 2030 and direct NASA to take steps to grow the ""space economy."" Require the United States to maintain a continuous human presence in low-Earth orbit through and beyond the useful life of the ISS. Support NASA's leadership in coordinating the development of next generation spacesuits. Leverage private sector investment to bolster human space exploration. Authorize NASA's Enhanced Use Leasing (EUL) authority. EUL allows companies to lease vacant or underutilized buildings owned by NASA with lease proceeds helping to fund capital improvements at the NASA centers. Provide rapid acquisition authorities similar to those that have proven successful at the Department of Defense and other agencies. Direct NASA to maintain and upgrade irreplaceable rocket launch and test infrastructure. Support vital life and physical science research to ensure that humans can live in deep space safely. Direct NASA to improve upon its planetary defense measures in order to protect Earth from asteroids and other near-Earth objects. Affirm NASA's commitment to aeronautics research by supporting a robust X-plane program as well as work on efficient propulsion concepts and advanced composites. Support NASA's STEM education and workforce efforts. Read the full text of the bill here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=video&id=5528,Cruz on Senate Floor Celebrates Unanimous Passage of Bipartisan NASA Authorization Act,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Central TX (512) 916-5834 300 E 8th Suite 961 Austin, TX 78701 Email North TX (214) 599-8749 Lee Park Tower II 3626 N. Hall St. Suite 410 Dallas, TX 75219 Email Southeast TX (713) 718-3057 The Mickey Leland Federal Building 1919 Smith Street Suite 9047 Houston, TX 77002 Email South/Cen. TX (210) 340-2885 9901 IH-10W Suite 950 San Antonio, TX 78230 Email East TX (903) 593-5130305 S. Broadway Suite 501 Tyler, TX 75702 Email South TX (956) 686-7339 200 S. 10th St Suite 1603 McAllen, TX 78501 Email Washington, D.C. (202) 224-5922 127A Russell Washington, DC 20510 Contact",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z