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://carson.house.gov/newsroom/past-e-newsletters/thank-you-for-a-great-2015,Thank You for a Great 2015,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 31, 2015 Dear Friend, As your representative, itis a privilege torepresent you in Congress.Everyday Im working to bring your voice to our nations capital and make government work for you. With 2015 drawing to a close, here are afew highlights of what we were able to accomplish together over the past 12 months.It is an honor to work hard on behalf of you, your family, and our community. HELPING HOOSIERS IS MY BIGGEST PRIORITY: My office is committed to be a place of service where your needs come first. Over the course of 2015, I am proud to let you know that we: Helped over 900 Hoosiers who were having difficulties with federal or state agencies Responded to over140,000 of your letters, phone calls, and emails Helped secure over $7,000,000 in federal grant money for nonprofit and community organizationswithin the 7th Congressional District Hosted over 140 community meetings and events with residents including my annual job fair and youth opportunities fair On the80th Anniversary of Social Security in August, Congressman Carson met with constituents to discuss ways his office could help with social security benefits. PUTTING HOOSIERS BACK TO WORK: Creating jobs and putting Hoosiers back to work remains a priority for me. Earlier this year, my office hosted its sixth annual job fair that connected over 1200 residents with 138 employers from across Central Indiana.I have already heard from several participants who were able to get jobs as a result of this year's fair. In Washington, I am a strong supporter of the Make It In America agenda, which looks to strengthen American manufacturing and bring back jobs that were shipped overseas.Indianas economy has been improving, but we still need to make sure that all Hoosiers have an opportunity to find stable, well-paying jobs. KEEPING HOOSIERS SAFE: As your representative and as a former law enforcement officer, keeping you and your family safe has always been my top priority.That is why I was so honored to be appointed to the House Intelligence Committee earlier this year.This appointment gives me an inside view of our efforts to protect our country and allows me to play a critical role in the fight against terrorism. It is an honor and a privilege to serve you. If I can do anything to assist you, please do not hesitate to contact my office.Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2016. Your Friend, Andr",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-leads-house-effort-fully-fund-blackstone-river-valley-national-park,Cicilline Leads House Effort to Fully Fund Blackstone River Valley National Park,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,RI,David Cicilline,C001084,cicilline.house.gov,,,legacy,"PAWTUCKET One year after leading the effort in the U.S. House to establish the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park, U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI) helped secure full funding for the new National Parks operations in 2016. The creation of the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park will help preserve the legacy of Rhode Islands role as the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, said Cicilline, who led a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committees Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies to request robust funding for the National Park Service. I am delighted that the Federal government will provide full funding to support our new National Park in 2016. I look forward to continuing to work with community leaders in Rhode Island as this process moves ahead. Earlier this month, Congress passed legislation to fund the federal government through September 2016. Included in the bill, which President Obama has signed into law, is $927,000 in funding to fully support operations at the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park. Last year, Cicilline introduced and the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources later approved the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park Establishment Act (H.R. 706). The legislation was later included as part of the National Defense Authorization Act that President Obama signed into law in December 2014. The Blackstone River Valley National Park is comprised of sites and districts in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts including the Blackstone River and its tributaries; the Blackstone Canal; the non-contiguous nationally significant historic districts of Old Slater Mill in Pawtucket; the villages of Slatersville (in North Smithfield) and Ashton (in Cumberland) Rhode Island; and Whitinsville and Hopedale in Massachusetts. Spanning from Worcester, MA to Providence, RI, the Blackstone River Valley is the Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. The Valleys beauty and history embodies a landscape rich in natural, historic, and cultural treasures. The new Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park will help preserve these icons of industry, environment, and history for generations to come.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/increased-funding-alzheimer%E2%80%99s-research-federal-spending-bill-will-benefit-rhode-island,Increased Funding for Alzheimers Research in Federal Spending Bill Will Benefit Rhode Island,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,RI,David Cicilline,C001084,cicilline.house.gov,,,legacy,"PAWTUCKET During negotiations over federal spending for 2016, U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI) successfully advocated to significantly increase funding for Alzheimers disease research. The increase in available funding will also create new opportunities for colleges and universities in Rhode Island, including the University of Rhode Island, which received nearly $14 million in 2012 to improve care for individuals with Alzheimers disease. Currently, available treatments for Alzheimers disease are only able to provide modest relief of symptoms over time, while effective long-term treatments and preventative measures are not yet available. Funding for Alzheimers research is not keeping pace with Medicare and Medicaid spending, Cicilline wrote in a letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee. The federal spending bill passed by Congress earlier this month expanded funding for Alzheimers research from $586 million in 2015 to $936 million in 2016 an increase of nearly 60%. The increase in funding for Alzheimer's initiatives will expand resources available through theU.S. Department of Health and Human Services, including theNational Alzheimer's Project. The Secretary of Health and Human Serviceswill be required to coordinate Alzheimer's disease research and services across all federal agencies to accelerate the development of treatments that would prevent, halt, or reverse the course of Alzheimer's disease. This includes vital NIH research efforts to identify research priorities andmilestonesas well as expand research aimed at preventing and treating Alzheimer's. According to the Alzheimers Association, more than 5.3 million Americans, including 22,000 Rhode Islanders, are living with Alzheimers disease today. By 2025, the number of Americans with Alzheimers disease is expected to increase to 7.1 million. Experts believe robust funding for Alzheimers research could help develop a cure by 2025. The development of a treatment by 2025 could save the United States as much as $220 billion over the first five years, according to the Alzheimers Association. During his time in office, Cicilline has fought to increase resources for Alzheimers research and ensure Rhode Islanders suffering from this disease get the treatment and care they need. In September, Cicilline announced that Seven Hills Rhode Island would receive nearly $1 million from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to strengthen care for older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), as well as Alzheimers disease and related disorders.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gosar.house.gov/press-release/rep-gosar-circulates-legislation-strip-medal-freedom-bill-cosby,Rep. Gosar Circulates Legislation to Strip Medal of Freedom from Bill Cosby,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AZ,Paul Gosar,G000565,gosar.house.gov,,,legacy,"PRESCOTT, A.Z. - Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after circulating a Dear Colleague letter inviting his fellow members of Congress to cosponsor legislation that he will introduce next week affirming a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and that will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked: The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not something to be taken lightly and such an honor must come with responsibility and accountability. No doubt, Bill Cosby has made cultural contributions to public life in the United States as both an entertainer and as an advocate for social causes. However, the shocking admissions of Cosby during a 2005 deposition, the harrowing accounts of more than 50 women of Cosbys sexual assault and drugging as well as Cosbys arrest for three felony counts of sexual assault make him unfit to retain our nations highest civilian honor. When approached, President Obama stated there is no mechanism to revoke the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Cosby, making it is necessary to establish a formal removal process in order to protect the integrity of this award. For this reason, I will introduce legislation that ensures there is a mechanism in place to strip Cosby, or anyone else found dishonorarable, of the Medal of Freedom. Furthermore, it is true that there is a presumption of innocence in the American legal system, and rightly so. While our criminal justice system will ultimately determine whether Cosby serves jail time for the 2004 incident, Montgomery County prosecutors made clear in their Affidavit of Probable Cause yesterday that Bill Cosby has likely been drugging women for years. Cosbys own admissions to drugging women for sex place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society. To continue honoring Bill Cosby with this prestigious accolade would be an affront to women nationwide, particularly those who were victims of his horrific acts. Background: The Gosar dear colleague being circulated for cosponsorship can be found HERE. The full text of the draft Gosar legislation can be found HERE. Congressman Gosar has been working closely with Promoting Awareness | Victim Empowerment(PAVE), aDC-based nonprofit organization that works to prevent sexual assault and heal survivors, on this effort. PAVEs press release from 12/17/15 can be found HERE. Congressman Gosar has been working on this legislation for months following release of the 2005 deposition in July 2015. Last July, when questioned about revoking Cosbys medal, President Obama stated, There's no precedent for revoking a medalWe don't have that mechanism. Since that time Rep. Gosar has been working closely with PAVE and others to craft legislation that provides a mechanism. Congressman Gosars bill affirms a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked. The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established in 1963. This prestigious award is bestowed on recipients forespecially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. William Henry Bill Cosby, Jr. received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002. In recent months, more than 50 women have come forward and conveyed disturbing accounts of drugging and sexual assault by Cosby. The statute of limitations has expired for many of these incidents, and as a result, many of these women will never get their day in court. On December 30, 2015, Montgomery County Prosecutors charged Cosby with three counts of felony aggravated indecent assault for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting a young woman without her consent in a 2004 incident. The 20 Page Affidavit of Probable Cause and three page Criminal Complaint can be found HERE. In the 20 page Affidavit of Probable Cause, prosecutors found that the evidence here demonstrates that the victims substantially impaired condition prevented her ability to consent, or even defend herself from Cosbys sexual assault. Prosecutors also noted that over the years Cosby obtained seven separate prescriptions for Quaaludes that he did not personally ingest, nor ever intended to personally ingest. According to the New York Daily News, court documents obtained by the Associated Press on Monday, July 7, 2015, revealed that Cosby admitted under oath that he bought Quaaludes to dope the women he wanted to gropeand slipped the sedative to at least one lady and other people. During a deposition on September 29, 2005, a lawyer, Dolores Troiani, asked Cosby, When you got the Quaaludes, was it in your mind that you were going to use these Quaaludes for young women that you wanted to have sex with? and Cosby answered Yes. Cosbys own admissions to drugging women in order to satisfy his sexual desires place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society. As one of my constituents stated eloquently on my Facebook page, Civilian honors such as this come with no legal protections or guarantees...Honors are optional, and not anyone's legal right to have and keepThe bar should be extraordinarily high for the Medal of Freedom, and to keep Cosby as a recipient greatly diminishes the very worth of that honor. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kathleenrice.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=259,"On New Years Eve, Rep. Rice & Anti-DWI Advocates Introduce New Legislation Requiring Advanced DWI-Prevention Technology in All New Cars",2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NY,Kathleen Rice,R000602,kathleenrice.house.gov,,,legacy,"GARDEN CITY, NY U.S. Representative Kathleen Rice held a press conference today with anti-DWI advocates to introduce new legislation requiring that within 10 years, all new cars sold in the U.S. come equipped with advanced DWI-prevention technology that detects a drivers blood alcohol content (BAC) and prevents the car from moving if the drivers BAC is at or above the legal limit. The advanced technology is currently being developed through the Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) program, a research partnership between the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety (ACTS), which represents 17 leading automobile manufacturers. In June, 2015, NHTSA and ACTS unveiled prototypes of touch-based and breath-based technologies, which will be integrated into vehicles for further testing as researchers work to develop final products. The touch-based technology responds to the touch of a drivers fingertip and uses infrared light to measure the drivers BAC. Unlike a breathalyzer, the DADSS breath-based technology does not require a driver to breathe into a tube a driver simply enters the vehicle and breathes normally, and sensors detect the drivers BAC using infrared light. Rices legislation, the End Drunk Driving Act, will require the technology to be installed in all new cars sold in the U.S. within 10 years of the bills enactment. The legislation significantly boosts funding for the DADSS program to help ensure that the technology will be fully developed, tested and ready for commercial use within 10 years. More information about the DADSS program, including a video demonstration of how the technology works, can be found here. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan found that requiring DWI-prevention technology in all new cars sold in the U.S. could prevent an estimated 85% of all drunk driving-related fatalities over 15 years, saving more than 59,000 lives. It could also prevent an estimated 1.25 million nonfatal drunk driving-related injuries over the same 15 year period, a reduction of 84-89%. The study also found that preventing these deaths and injuries would save nearly $343 billion over 15 years, and the cost of installing the technology would be recovered within the first three years. New Years Eve is a celebration of the hope that each new year brings, the hope that we can keep improving ourselves and our society and keep striving towards a better future, said Representative Kathleen Rice. My hope is that we can put an end to drunk driving once and for all, that we will no longer lose 10,000 lives each year to this crime, and passing this bill will help make that future a reality. Advanced DWI-prevention technology has the potential to save thousands of lives and billions of dollars by keeping drunk drivers off the roads, and Im going to keep fighting to make it standard safety equipment in all new cars sold in this country. The full text of Rices legislation can be found here. The End Drunk Driving Act: Requires that within 10 years, all new cars sold in the U.S. must be equipped with advanced technology that prevents the car from moving if the drivers BAC is at or above the legal limit. Boosts funding for the Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) program to help ensure the technology is fully developed within 10 years. (The recently enacted Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, which reauthorized our nations transportation and traffic safety programs, included $21 million for DADSS over the next five years. Rices legislation would provide DADSS with $76 million over the next five years, and a total of $176 million over 10 years.) Withholds highway funding from states that dont have mandatory use of ignition interlock devices for all offenders. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398665,Looking Ahead to 2016,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Blaine Luetkemeyer,L000569,luetkemeyer.house.gov,,,legacy,"With 2015 officially in the books, we can now look ahead to 2016 and build on what the House was able to accomplish last year. share: f t With 2015 officially in the books, we can now look ahead to 2016 and build on what the House was able to accomplish last year. I am ready to get the ball rolling early. In the coming weeks, the House is expected to vote on my legislation, the Providing Accountability through Transparency Act. This legislation would require each government agency, in providing notice of a rule making, to include a link to a 100-word plain language summary of the proposed rule. Government agencies create long-winded rules each and every day and this bill requires a short summary and ensures the agency will provide a web link at regulations.gov to make the proposed rule accessible to all Americans. Of course, Ill keep fighting against the onerous new rules and regulations being issued by the Obama Administration, but it is very important that the American people have the opportunity to read, in plain language, what is being proposed. Also this year, I will continue oversight of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, maintain a leading role in the debate over Missouri River management, and support legislation that helps our nations veterans. In addition, it is my hope the House will start working on tax reform in 2016. Families and small businesses deserve a tax code that is simple and fair and it is long overdue for the House to start the process of overhauling the more than four million words that are in todays tax code. In 2015, the House passed major bills addressing education, transportation, tax relief, and lifting the ban on crude oil. The House will continue to build on its plan to keep our nation secure and a plan to create jobs, end economic uncertainty, and make America more competitive. As we enter 2016, please remember that my offices located in Jefferson City, Wentzville, Washington, Mo., and Washington, D.C. are here to listen to your concerns and suggestions. I serve as your liaison to the federal government, but I cannot do this job alone. Hearing your ideas, so that I can put them into action, is critical to me. By working together, we can build upon our common goal to ensure 2016 is a year of prosperity and progress for all hard-working Americans. I remain committed to battling the regulations that come down from the Administration and I will continue to fight for the priorities of Americans. Now it is time to get back to work and continue to build off of the last year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/rep-reichert-named-one-most-effective-members-congress,Rep. Reichert Named One of the Most Effective Members of Congress,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,WA,Dave Reichert,R000578,reichert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Recently, the University of Virginias and Vanderbilt Universitys Legislative Effectiveness Project ranked U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert as one of the most effective Members of Congress between 2013 and 2014. Specifically, Rep. Reichert earned the second-highest score among Washington State lawmakers after Rep. Doc Hastings who is now retired, ranking 27th among Republicans, and 28th among all 435 House members. This past year, Rep. Reichert has built upon his achievements from previous congressional terms and has continued to focus his efforts on growing jobs in Washington, enabling Americans to keep more of their hard earned dollars, and keeping our communities safe. Here are some of the highlights from 2015: Named Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee: Rep. Reichert was given the opportunity to lead the Ways and Means Committee, Subcommittee on Trade and champion some of the issues that have the greatest impact on Washingtonians. Throughout the year, Rep. Reichert also continued to supporttrade in Washington by fighting for the reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank and serving as the lead advocate in Congress to resolve the West Coast Ports dispute. He is also a member of the President's Export Council. Served as Chairman of the Tax Subcommittee: Prior to being named as Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee, Rep. Reichert chaired the Subcommittee on Tax Policy, where he focused on reforming the tax code to make it work better for American workers, families and businesses. Now as the Chairman Emeritus and second in seniority, he will continue reforming the outdated tax code. Named Conferee to Customs and Highway Conference Negotiations: With a bipartisan, bicameral group of colleagues, Rep. Reichert worked to negotiate two important bills for the American people. This years Highway Bill is the first long term highway bill in a decade, giving states the certainty they need to invest in long-term infrastructure projects.The Highway Bill also included Rep. Reicherts language advising states to strengthen laws regarding secured loads to increase public safety. As a Customs Bill conferee, he worked with his colleagues to negotiate a bill that will strengthen enforcement of our trade laws and increase opportunities for our businesses here at home. Launched the Law Enforcement Task Force: Earlier this year, Rep. Reichert launched a task force aimed at opening conversations between members of law enforcement and the communities they serve throughout the country. This task force will explore and identify opportunities for communities and law enforcement to build upon mutual respect for one another and increase civility in our nation. Launched the Congressional Freight Caucus: This past October, Rep. Reichert launched the bipartisan Congressional Freight Caucus in an effort to raise awareness about the need to expand the nations freight infrastructure and improve the movement of goods. This issue is especially important to Washington State, where our freight systems support 1.5 million jobs and produce $129 billion in annual revenue. Sponsored Legislation Passed into Law: H.R. 1269 (P.L. 114-12): The Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu National Blue Alert Act was signed into law on May 19th and creates a nationwide alert system to apprehend violent criminals who have seriously injured, killed, or made an imminent or credible threat to cause serious harm to a law enforcement officer. H.R. 2146 (P.L. 114-26): The Defending Public Safety Employees Retirement Act ensures fairness for federal public safety officials by allowing them to access retirement savings at the age of 50 after 20 years of service without the application of the 10% penalty. This is the same treatment state and local public safety officers receive. H.R. 1892 (P.L. 114-27): The Trade Adjustment Assistance Reauthorization Act provides temporary assistance, including training, to American workers who have been impacted by international trade. The following bills Rep. Reichert sponsored were enacted as part of the FY2016 Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 114-113), which was recently signed into law on December 18th. H.R. 629, The Permanent S Corporation Built-in Gain Recognition Period Act of 2015: This bill makes permanent an important provision that supports our small businesses in doing what they do best creating jobs and strengthening our local economies. Specifically, it allows S Corporations greater access to their own capital, so they can grow, reinvest, and hire by reducing the time they must hold certain assets after changing to a S Corporation from a C Corporation. H.R. 630, Permanent S Corporation Charitable Contribution Act of 2015: This bill makes permanent a rule ensuring consistent treatment of charitable contributions for S Corporation shareholders, thereby providing certainty and encouraging charitable giving. H.R. 869: This legislation ensures that public employees in Washington State including school teachers, utility district workers, and many others, are able to enjoy the fruits of their labor and pass on medical benefits earned over years of service to their families and loved ones. H.R. 2940, Educator Tax Relief Act: This bill makes permanent the educator tax deduction, which allows teachers to deduct the cost of classroom supplies and professional development expenses up to $250. Just like companies can deduct certain business expenses, teachers should be able to deduct the amount of their own hard-earned dollars they put into making classrooms the best learning environment they can for our kids and grandkids. H.Amdt.271, to increase funding for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program by $100 million: This amendment, which passed the House on June 2nd and was included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act , provides funding to help local police departments meet their hiring needs to ensure our communities have enough cops on the street to keep us safe. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://sablan.house.gov/2015-year-review,2015 - The Year in Review,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Independent,Senate,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"2015 will be remembered in part as the year of Typhoon Soudelor. Complete recovery is still to be accomplished, but federal assistance helped local hands respond to the immediate emergency and will continue to aid in restoration of homes and public infrastructure. 2015 was also a year of significant accomplishment in Washington. January 16% NAP benefit increase for Saipan takes effect - Food stamp beneficiaries on Saipan received a 16 percent increase in their benefits. The Saipan increase followed a 28 percent increase for Tinian and 62 percent for Rota and the Northern Islands that took effect in 2014. Seniority pays off in Committee assignment - Six years of seniority allowed the Northern Marianas Delegate to win promotion to Vice-Ranking Member for the Natural Resources Committee. February H.R. 851 aims to increase federal funding for PSS - As it became apparent that the Elementary and Secondary Education Act would finally be reauthorized, I introduced legislation to increase federal education funding for our Public School System a move that paid off in December. March Presidents budget includes funding for Rota National Park study - The study was only authorized in the National Defense Authorization Act in December 2014, but the President immediately proposed funding. April Community Health Centers, CHIP benefit from doc fix - The Kagman Community Health Center was assured of funding through 2017 in Public Law 114-10. The law also extended the CHIP program, which will provide $1.4 million for health insurance for children from low-income families in the Northern Marianas in 2016. June Geothermal explorations get green light - CUC got the go-ahead to use technical assistance funds provided by Congress to continue exploring geothermal potential on Saipan. Hot water deep below the surface could generate electricity and lower the cost of power. July Foxx-Messer-Sablan Act would help students select college - Along with Education and the Workforce Committee members Virginia Foxx (R-NC) and Luke Messer (R-IN), I introduced H.R. 3178 to help students and their families get the facts they need to make decisions about college. The Sablan.house.gov website also added resources for college-bound students. August President signs disaster declaration, releasing federal aid - We worked with the White House to get a declaration within 30 hours of the request from the CNMI and federal aid quickly followed: Home repair: $24.6 million in aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency reached 4,821 households. Commonwealth Health Center: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers helped CUC quickly restore power to the hospital. Debris removal: U.S. Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit cleared debris from schools and roadways, making it easier to replace power poles. Water: Marines also set up a reverse osmosis purification system and gave out drinking water in villages around Saipan. Replacement food: The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved emergency food stamps helping over 12,000 households. Business recovery: The U.S. Small Business Administration loaned out $23 million to get business and individuals back on their feet. Postal services: The U.S. Post Office in Saipan resumed operations using generator power. Immigration services: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services center on Saipan maintained regular hours. Customs and Border Patrol and the Transportation Security Administration kept their airport operations up and running. Environmental protection: Along with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Coast Guard contained a dangerous spill of gasoline and helped remove damaged boats blocking the Saipan harbor. EPA also provided hazardous waste disposal around the island. Establishing NMI National Guard found feasible - The report I included in the FY2014 National Defense Authorization Act was issued and found that it would be feasible to have a Northern Marianas National Guard unit. Soudelor underscored the need for the Governor to have this additional resource in times of emergency. I followed up with introduction of H.R. 3649, creating an NMI Guard. September His Holiness Pope Francis addressed a joint meeting of Congress - To maintain a proper decorum as the Pope entered, sixteen Members, including the representative of the people of the Northern Mariana Islands, were selected to line the corridor. October Saipan Troop Store project bids close - Contractors submitted proposals for the 5,000-square-foot expansion of the Army & Air Force Exchange Service Troop Store located at the Army Reserve Center on Saipan. Bidding had been delayed to check for unexploded ordnance. The store serves about 4,000 active and reserve service members, retirees, and their families and needs a major overhaul. First year of stretched-out CW program - Last year, I was able to get the foreign worker program extended through 2019, instead of ending in 2014. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services set the cap on workers at 12,999 for 2016, but with four years now remaining the need to convert to U.S. workers remains pressing, if growth is to continue in our islands. November College and Career workshops begin for NMI students - As part of the effort to beef up the local workforce, the congressional office began workshops for Northern Marianas high school students. We offered information on how to decide on college, in-demand jobs and options for vocational training, and opportunities for service in the military, AmeriCorps or the Peace Corps. Three academy slots added for NMI students - President Obama signed the 2016 National Defense Authorization Act into law, adding three new slots for Northern Mariana Islands students at the U.S. service academies. Now, we have gone from three slots, when I came into office in 2009, to nine positions set aside for NMI young people. December Highway funds for NMI increased - Transit and safety programs worth $1.2 million annually to the Northern Marianas and an additional $8 million in highway construction funds for the NMI, Guam, American Samoa, and the Virgin Islands are included in the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, Public Law 114-94. New education law means millions for NMI schools - Millions of dollars in new funding for Northern Mariana Islands schools will result from the Every Student Succeeds Act, Public Law 114-95. The new law contains proposals from my bill, H.R. 851, to raise Title I-A grant funds going to U.S. insular areas. The Congressional Research Service projects Northern Marianas funding will go up from the current $6.8 million to $11.1 million each year, beginning next October. Soudelor commendations added to the Congressional Record - In a statement before Congress, I recognized and expressed appreciation to all who made possible the recovery from Typhoon Soudelor. The hard work of the local government, charitable organizations, businesses, and many friends near and far deserves this lasting recognition. Consolidated appropriations act aids the NMI - The fiscal 2016 funding and tax extension law, P.L. 114-113 contains numerous benefits for people and programs in the Northern Marianas: Rota and Tinian harbor projects get $600,000: The law includes my request to fund the Rota and Tinian harbor improvements. This is the first year of direct funding for the two projects, which will eventually cost about $3 million each. Rota National Park study funded: The study was only authorized in the National Defense Authorization Act in December 2014, but funding is now available. $6 million for Clean Water/Safe Drinking Water: The improved formula for the NMI and other insular areas continues, bringing total funding over the last 7 years to approximately $51.6 million. Pell Grants increased. The maximum grant will be $5,915, an increase of $140 in the 2016-2017 school year for NMC students. Teacher tax credit made permanent: Teachers may continue to deduct up to $250 in out-of-pocket costs. American Opportunities Tax Credit made permanent: Families get a credit of up to $2,500 per college student per school year. Funds are covered over to the CNMI Treasury. Child Tax Credit made permanent: The credit is based on the number of children in a family. Funds are covered over to the CNMI Treasury.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://sablan.house.gov/fema-obligates-12-million-cuc-soudelor-repairs,FEMA obligates $1.2 million for CUC Soudelor repairs,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Independent,Senate,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"FEMA obligates $1.2 million for CUC Soudelor repairs Dec 30, 2015 The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced this week a grant of $1,194,653.70 to the Northern Mariana Islands. The funds are intended to be passed through to the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation for costs of restoring power on Saipan following Typhoon Soudelor. These public assistance funds are authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act and should continue to be obligated for a variety of public infrastructure that was damaged during the storm. FEMA provides 90 percent of funding; the Commonwealth provides 10 percent, a reduction of the usual 25 percent match.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://sablan.house.gov/uscis-assures-action-pending-cw-petitions,USCIS assures action on pending CW petitions,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Independent,Senate,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"USCIS assures action on pending CW petitions Dec 30, 2015 The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has responded to my calls for action on delayed renewals of Commonwealth-only worker permits by moving CW applications submitted over 90 days ago for permits that expire this week to the front of the line for processing about 800 in all. Extra staff have also been added to clear the backlog of CW applications. USCIS has told me that they expect to act on these 800 CW petitions by the end of this week. Another 2,000 applications that were not submitted before the recommended 90 days will also receive the extra staff attention I called for. I urge employers with applications that are more than 90 days old to contact the congressional office. I also recommend that employers submit applications for renewals as early as possible they may do so up to 180 days prior to expiration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://sablan.house.gov/working-together-new-torres-administration,Working together with the new Torres administration,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Independent,Senate,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Working together with the new Torres administration Dec 31, 2015 Our new Governor, Ralph DLG Torres, led the response and recovery to Typhoon Soudelor; and the congressional office assisted by making sure that every federal resource he called for was provided fully and quickly. In a meeting with Governor Torres this week I pledged to continue that model of cooperation and partnership with his new administration for the benefit of the people of the Northern Mariana Islands. I thanked the Governor, too, for leading us all through these days of grief with grace and courage.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://scalise.house.gov/press-release/icymi-scalise-barton-op-ed-dallas-morning-news-praises-benefits-lifting-ban,ICYMI: Scalise-Barton Op-Ed In Dallas Morning News Praises Benefits Of Lifting The Ban,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,LA,Steve Scalise,S001176,scalise.house.gov,,,legacy,"METAIRIE, LA. -Congressman Joe Barton (R-TX) and Congressman Steve Scalise (R-La.) penned a joint opinion editorial published in The Dallas Morning News titled Develop American resources, create American jobs.As of December 18, 2015, the nearly forty-year-old ban on crude oil exports has been lifted, thanks in part to Scalises leadership in the House. The op-ed touts the job-creating and economy-growing benefits for the state of Louisiana and our region. Excerpts from the op-ed are below: Let us develop the resources of our land These words, the beginning of a quotation of Daniel Webster, are emblazoned upon a plaque hung prominently in the House of Representatives chamber. They certainly hold true today as Republicans work to grow our economy, create good-paying jobs, make life more affordable for hardworking families and bolster Americas national security. Throughout the Gulf Coast region, our oil and gas industry remains the heartbeat of our economy an amazing success story that creates good-paying jobs by providing homegrown energy to America and our allies. In Texas and Louisiana alone, the oil and gas industry supports well over 2 million jobs directly and indirectly,from oil patch workers to engineers, service industry workers to truck drivers, computer programmers and more. The average salary of an oil and gas industry worker in the Gulf Coast region is about $80,000 a year, and the industry contributes tens of billions of dollars to our regional economy.With results like these, every state blessed with valuable energy resources should have the same opportunity to replicate our success. But for years, President Barack Obama has been trying to reverse these opportunities by imposing radical regulations that are rooted in a failed cap-and-trade scheme. With these and other wrong-headed policies, the president and his administration are waging a notorious War on Coal that is hurting American workers and their families. Just this month, the president met with the leaders of other nations in Paris to pursue his global warming agenda that will make America less competitive, kill jobs and raise costs for hardworking families. Just imagine the foolish notion that an administration that could not even properly build a website to sell health insurance policies can somehow control the earths temperature. Meanwhile, America has lost 80,000 jobs asoil producers have been forced to scale back their rigs by 60 percent, yet the president and his radical environmentalist supporters have fought tooth and nail to keep America the only nation in the world with a self-imposed ban on exporting our own crude oil. Instead of helping Americans compete on the global stage and benefit from our incredible energy resources, the president and his allies are doing the exact opposite, blocking enormous opportunities and trying to force their own radical agenda on the rest of us. Youll see that huge cost in everything from higher food and electricity prices, to thousands more lost jobs. Thats just wrong.House Republicans are committed to fighting for the millions of Americans who will directly benefit from developing our countrys plentiful energy resources. And in recent weeks, we have passed several pieces of legislation to do just that. We have stood against the presidents illegal so-called Clean Power Plan and New Source Performance Standard that will drive up the cost of electricity. We voted to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. We have voted to upgrade our aging energy infrastructure, and now we have finally passed legislation to end the outdated ban on crude oil exports, part of a crucial bill which the president just signed into law. Lifting the ban will create an estimated 1 million American jobs throughout the nation and add $170 billion annually to our GDP. In fact, it is estimated that for every job created in the oil and gas sector, six will be created in the broader economy, while gas prices here at home could drop as much as 13 cents per gallon, helping families save more at the pump. This is a historic victory for America and for our region. Were proud to have led the charge in the House to help Americans capitalize on our energy potential so we can create good jobs, our economy can continue to grow and more families can have an opportunity to achieve the American Dream.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://stewart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-stewart-and-house-intelligence-committee-launch-investigation-into,Rep. Stewart and House Intelligence Committee Launch Investigation into Spying Allegations,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,UT,Chris Stewart,S001192,stewart.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. -- As a member of the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Chris Stewart (R-Utah) joined his committee colleagues in opening an investigation into the Obama Administration's practice of spying on members of Congress and some friendly foreign leaders. The Wall Street Journal has reported that the United States collected information on private exchanges between members of Congress and the Israeli Prime Minister during the Iran nuclear deal negotiations. This comes two years after President Obama announced he would no longer eavesdrop on friendly heads of state. Additionally, the law states that any intercepted communication between a U.S. government official and a foreign target must be destroyed unless the NSA Director grants a waiver. At this time, Congress is aware of no such waiver. ""If the Wall Street Journal report is correct, we've got a real problem, Stewart said. ""The National Security Agency already has a strained relationship with the American people, and breaking our privacy laws only weakens that relationship.Next week, the House Intelligence Committee is expected to meet with members of the Intelligence Community to get some answers to these very serious allegations.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-announces-2016-town-forum-schedule,Visclosky Announces 2016 Town Forum Schedule,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,IN,Peter Visclosky,V000108,visclosky.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congressman Pete Visclosky announced the following 2016 schedule for Town Forums that will be held throughout Indianas First Congressional District. Thursday January 14, 2016 10:00 a.m. Crown Point Community Library 122 North Main Street Crown Point, Indiana 46307 12:00 p.m. Dyer Town Hall One Town Square Dyer, Indiana 46311 2:00 p.m. East Chicago City Hall Council Chambers 4525 Indianapolis Boulevard East Chicago, Indiana 46312 4:00 p.m. Wicker Park Social Center 2215 Ridge Road Highland, Indiana 46322 6:00 p.m. Purdue University Calumet Student Union Library Building Room with a View 2200 169th Street Hammond, Indiana 46323 Friday January 15, 2016 10:00 a.m. Michigan City City Hall Council Chambers 100 East Michigan Boulevard Michigan City, Indiana 46360 12:00 p.m. Chesterton Town Hall 726 Broadway Chesterton, Indiana 46304 2:00 p.m. Porter County Government Center County Commissioners Chambers 155 Indiana Avenue Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 4:00 p.m. Portage City Hall 6070 Central Avenue Portage, Indiana 46368 6:00 p.m. Hobart Community Center 111 East Old Ridge Road Hobart, Indiana 46342 Saturday January 16, 2016 12:00 p.m. Gary Public Library Woodson Branch 501 South Lake Street Gary, Indiana 46403 2:00 p.m. Merrillville Town Hall 7820 Broadway Merrillville, Indiana 46410 Please note that all times listed are Central Standard Time. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://desantis.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8B7562DD-8121-46C9-908D-FCA0694BC793,"DeSantis Seeks Answers on Israel, Congressional Spying",2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,FL,Ron DeSantis,D000621,desantis.house.gov,,,legacy,"St. Augustine, FL – Rep. Ron DeSantis (FL-06), Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, has signed onto a letter to Admiral Michael S. Rogers, Director of the National Security Agency (NSA), concerning recent allegations that the NSA intercepted and provided to the Executive Branch communications between member of Congress and the Israeli government. The letter can be read here. DeSantis issued the following statement: “While the Obama Administration was negotiating a nuclear deal with the world–s leading state sponsor of terrorism, they were simultaneously spying on and trying to undermine our closest ally in the region, Israel. That this spying may very well have swept up the communications of members of Congress, which represents an affront to the separation of powers. Congress needs to investigate how the Obama administration used this information and determine whether it shared information gleaned from this spying with Iran.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://gosar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2427,Rep. Gosar Circulates Legislation to Strip Medal of Freedom from Bill Cosby,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AZ,Paul Gosar,G000565,gosar.house.gov,,,legacy,"PRESCOTT, A.Z. - Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after circulating a Dear Colleague letter inviting his fellow members of Congress to cosponsor legislation that he will introduce next week affirming a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and that will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked: The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not something to be taken lightly and such an honor must come with responsibility and accountability. No doubt, Bill Cosby has made cultural contributions to public life in the United States as both an entertainer and as an advocate for social causes. However, the shocking admissions of Cosby during a 2005 deposition, the harrowing accounts of more than 50 women of Cosby's sexual assault and drugging as well as Cosby's arrest for three felony counts of sexual assault make him unfit to retain our nation's highest civilian honor. When approached, President Obama stated there is no mechanism to revoke the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Cosby, making it is necessary to establish a formal removal process in order to protect the integrity of this award. For this reason, I will introduce legislation that ensures there is a mechanism in place to strip Cosby, or anyone else found dishonorarable, of the Medal of Freedom. Furthermore, it is true that there is a presumption of innocence in the American legal system, and rightly so. While our criminal justice system will ultimately determine whether Cosby serves jail time for the 2004 incident, Montgomery County prosecutors made clear in their Affidavit of Probable Cause yesterday that Bill Cosby has likely been drugging women for years. Cosby's own admissions to drugging women for sex place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society. To continue honoring Bill Cosby with this prestigious accolade would be an affront to women nationwide, particularly those who were victims of his horrific acts. Background: The Gosar dear colleague being circulated for cosponsorship can be found HERE. The full text of the draft Gosar legislation can be found HERE. Congressman Gosar has been working closely with Promoting Awareness | Victim Empowerment(PAVE), aDC-based nonprofit organization that works to prevent sexual assault and heal survivors, on this effort. PAVE's press release from 12/17/15 can be found HERE. Congressman Gosar has been working on this legislation for months following release of the 2005 deposition in July 2015. Last July, when questioned about revoking Cosby's medal, President Obama stated, There's no precedent for revoking a medalWe don't have that mechanism. Since that time Rep. Gosar has been working closely with PAVE and others to craft legislation that provides a mechanism. Congressman Gosar's bill affirms a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked. The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established in 1963. This prestigious award is bestowed on recipients forespecially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. William Henry Bill Cosby, Jr. received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002. In recent months, more than 50 women have come forward and conveyed disturbing accounts of drugging and sexual assault by Cosby. The statute of limitations has expired for many of these incidents, and as a result, many of these women will never get their day in court. On December 30, 2015, Montgomery County Prosecutors charged Cosby with three counts of felony aggravated indecent assault for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting a young woman without her consent in a 2004 incident. The 20 Page Affidavit of Probable Cause and three page Criminal Complaint can be found HERE. In the 20 page Affidavit of Probable Cause, prosecutors found that the evidence here demonstrates that the victim's substantially impaired condition prevented her ability to consent, or even defend herself from Cosby's sexual assault. Prosecutors also noted that over the years Cosby obtained seven separate prescriptions for Quaaludes that he did not personally ingest, nor ever intended to personally ingest. According to the New York Daily News, court documents obtained by the Associated Press on Monday, July 7, 2015, revealed that Cosby admitted under oath that he bought Quaaludes to dope the women he wanted to gropeand slipped the sedative to at least one lady and other people'. During a deposition on September 29, 2005, a lawyer, Dolores Troiani, asked Cosby, When you got the Quaaludes, was it in your mind that you were going to use these Quaaludes for young women that you wanted to have sex with? and Cosby answered Yes. Cosby's own admissions to drugging women in order to satisfy his sexual desires place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society. As one of my constituents stated eloquently on my Facebook page, Civilian honors such as this come with no legal protections or guarantees...Honors are optional, and not anyone's legal right to have and keepThe bar should be extraordinarily high for the Medal of Freedom, and to keep Cosby as a recipient greatly diminishes the very worth of that honor. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=3DE01CDD-69C8-2FFE-24E4-307D7AE55664,Bennet Announces Recommendations from Advisory Committee to Fill Federal Court Vacancies,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced that the bipartisan advisory committee he convened to recommend applicants to fill an upcoming vacancy on the U.S. District Court of Colorado has selected three nominees. After interviewing 11 candidates the committee chose Magistrate Judge Kristin Mix, Regina Rodriguez, and Sam Walker. ""We are very grateful to the committee for all of their work to select the most highly qualified candidates to serve,"" Bennet said. ""We look forward to having the opportunity to review their applications and speak with each candidate in person."" The upcoming vacancy is created by Judge Robert Blackburn's taking senior status in April of 2016. Given the overwhelming dockets currently faced by the courts, the advisory committee was formed in October in advance of Judge Blackburn's departure, to ensure the seat was filled in a timely manner. The committee was co-chaired by Hal Haddon, former co-chair of previous advisory panels and a Denver lawyer, and Candy Figa, a prominent attorney in the Denver metro area, who has also been active in civic affairs, including serving as a City Councilmember and Mayor Pro tem of Greenwood Village and on the 18th Judicial Nominating Commission. The bipartisan nature of the committee reflects Senator Bennet's interest in a nonpartisan, merit selection system that is consistent with the University of Denver's Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System's (IAALS) recommended process. ""The entire applicant pool was exceptional. Each candidate had solid credentials and a unique set of experiences that would make them strong additions to Colorado's Federal Bench,"" said committee co-chair Candy Figa. ""While it was difficult to make final selections, we feel very confident in our recommendations and are eager to see the process move forward."" # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-bonuses-for-ge-workers-in-erie,Casey Statement on Bonuses for GE Workers in Erie,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,PA,Bob Casey,C001070,www.casey.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released a statement following GEs decision on bonuses for local GE workers. On November 18th, Casey urged GE Transportation CEO Jamie Miller to follow through on awarding the bonuses. Caseys original letter is attached. GE has made the right decision by agreeing to pay all of its workers the bonuses they earned. I called on GE to pay these bonuses this November because the workers in Northwestern Pennsylvania, who have made GE a successful company over the years, have earned them. GE made $934 million in profit through the first three quarters of this year. There should never have been a question about paying hardworking employees a couple of thousand dollars each in earned bonuses. In the new year Ill continue to press GE to commit to returning work to its Erie facility when orders increase. An increase in orders should result in the rehiring of workers in Erie instead of jobs being shipped to Texas. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/commentary/review-2015-senate-gets-work,Review of 2015: Senate Gets to Work,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IA,Charles Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,,,legacy,"By U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley At years end, most Americans take stock of the previous 12 months and consider if they met their goals for the year. A review of ones bank account, pay stub or job status and even a peek at the bathroom scale give folks a pretty good idea if they stayed true to their New Years resolutions. When the 114th Congress gaveled to order this past January, it marked the first time since 2006 that Republicans controlled both the House and Senate. The new leadership vowed to live up to the promises and expectations of the 2014 midterm elections and restore order to the peoples branch. The U.S. Senate succeeded in breathing life back into the worlds greatest deliberative body. In fact, the Senate held 163 roll call votes on floor amendments, compared to only 18 the previous year. Lawmakers performed oversight, drafted legislation, considered nominations and kept the federal government open for business. Restoring regular order ought to be considered the rule, not the exception as far as Im concerned. Considering that public opinion polls rank Congress among the least popular institutions in society, lawmakers are obligated to work towards restoring credibility and fundamental trust in our system of self-government. An appraisal of the first 12 months of the year reflects promises made and promises kept. Congress prioritized results that matter and advanced public policies that have substantive consequence on the daily lives of American families. Three key items that had evaded resolution for years in Washington were advanced by the Republican-led Congress and signed into law this year, including: approval of a five-year reauthorization of the federal transportation funding law that eluded bipartisan agreement for years. If theres one item that gets people animated at town meetings, its maintaining reliable roads and bridges. Rural Americans, in particular, typically commute longer distances in their own vehicles and need dependable roads to send and receive goods in the marketplace. The $305 billion agreement gives local and state governments the certainty they need to prioritize and move ahead with local infrastructure projects. overhaul of the federal K-12 education law to restore decision-making to state and local educators, parents and teachers. Passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act replaces the top-down interventions that the federal Department of Education prescribed under the previous law known as No Child Left Behind. When the federal bureaucracy in Washington meddles less, neighborhood schools can do more good by identifying and implementing innovative solutions that meet the needs of their students and local communities. passage of a long-term fix to a flawed Medicare funding formula that for 17 years caused dire uncertainty for patients and doctors. The Medicare Access and Chip Reauthorization Act improves the reimbursement formula for providers serving Medicare patients. Considering that Medicare serves 531,209 Iowans and spends $4.3 billion per year in the state, fixing problems in the way Medicare reimburses and incentivizes health care providers is a big deal for Iowa. Looking ahead to 2016, the 114th Congress has even more ground to cover. As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I will continue to lead efforts for a balanced budget amendment, civil asset forfeiture reform and press for final passage of my bipartisan sentencing reform and corrections bill and my bill to make improvements to the juvenile justice system. Other important work will require diligent oversight of the presidents my-way-or-the-highway mindset on immigration policy and prioritizing measures to end sanctuary laws, suspend risky resettlement of Syrian refugees into the United States and fix the nations foreign visa programs to protect U.S. workers, taxpayers and national security. Keeping tabs on the peoples business requires a tenacious appetite to root out wrongdoing and mismanagement throughout the sprawling size and scope of the federal bureaucracy. My sights will be keenly focused on reining in overreach at the Environmental Protection Agency, particularly towards the implementation of the federal rule known as the Waters of the United States. As an outspoken champion for rural America, whether it comes to roads, renewable energy, agriculture or health care, I stand strong to make sure the needs and challenges facing Americas heartland are heard loud and clear in Washington. Despite declining gas prices and employment numbers moving in the right direction, too many households are struggling to get ahead and stay ahead. With the high costs of college, prescription medicines and the $19 trillion federal debt looming over the minds of hardworking families, the general mood gripping Americans today is rooted in uncertainty. Thats even on top of increased concern about terrorism. Not since 9/11 has terrorism registered so high among the concerns of Americans. The terrorist attacks in Paris and San Bernadino delivered a stark reminder that the federal governments number one priority is to protect the safety and security of American citizens. Looking ahead to the New Year, I am eager to continue working for Iowans and getting feedback from the grassroots when I start my 36th year holding a meeting in each of Iowas 99 counties in January.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.isakson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/what-others-are-saying?ContentRecord_id=a02a9ecf-771c-4dae-8e16-314a00ed8d7b,Marietta Daily Journal: Isakson's Year in Review: What the Republican Congress did,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,GA,Johnny Isakson,I000055,www.isakson.senate.gov,,,legacy,"By Don McKee Georgias senior U.S. senator, Johnny Isakson, says the biggest accomplishment of the Republican-majority Congress in 2015 was the approval of an omnibus appropriations bill for the first time in seven years. Congress actually went through the process of appropriating rather than doing continuing resolutions and rather than having a government thats on cruise control and continues to spend money like it always did, the senator said in a post-session telephone interview. Probably that accomplishment more than anything else is something that gives us hope, because we had a lot of things that needed to be addressed both from an enhancement standpoint as well as a reduction standpoint, Isakson said. As for measures sponsored by Republicans, Isakson cited first the Clay Hunt suicide prevention act named for a young Texas Marine veteran who took his own life in 2011. The law provides better access to mental health resources aimed at preventing suicides which average about 22 a day among veterans. Its already being implemented around the country and were beginning to get some meaningful reductions in suicide incidents in our veterans population, said the senator. This is an issue close to Isaksons heart, and he has wielded his influence as chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee to bring about reforms in the VA and increased funding for veterans health care. He also has a lot of other irons in the fire as chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Ethics. Isakson ticked off other accomplishments of congressional Republicans. We passed a Keystone Pipeline bill to get Canadian crude down to Texas for refining but the president vetoed it but we put it on his desk, which was important, the senator said. We did a defense authorization bill for the first time in a couple of years. We did the trade promotion authority to give the president authority for fast track negotiations on trade. We passed repeal of Obamacare on the reconciliation bill, which the president will veto, but we passed it and put it on his desk. This has been a promise of the Republican caucus for the last two election cycles. We passed a reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act which repealed the Common Core provisions of the federal law and left those decisions up to the states and reinforced parental decision making and parental opt-out provisions on testing. We also passed the highway bill for reauthorization of the highway trust fund for the next five years. So for the first time in 17 years, you have a predictable flow of highway money for five years for federal interstates and federal projects in the states, he said. Isakson and his Republican colleagues brought home the bacon for Georgia. The omnibus appropriations act includes $21 million for expansion of the Savannah Harbor. It will be deepened to 47 feet to increase the amount of cargo moved through the port by more than 50 percent. From an economic standpoint, theres nothing more important as far as Georgia is concerned, the senator said. Add the spending from the highway bill, and the economic impact is huge, he said. Summing up, Isakson said: From a standpoint of business, of education and of the best interests of the people in terms of transportation, its been one of the best years weve had in a long time. Asked if it was his busiest year ever, he replied: Chairing two committees and having as much as I have had to do as the senior senator now, theres no question its been my busiest and probably my most productive year. Indeed, senator, you make the Energizer Bunny look a little slow in comparison. So just keep going and going.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=953433ca-dba4-46a1-adbc-256d0a4bc7fb,Sen. Murray & Rep. Larsen Applaud Department of Navy Decision to Keep Whidbey Island WIC Office Open,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,WA,Patty Murray,M001111,www.murray.senate.gov,,,legacy,"For months, Murray and Larsen urgedtheDepartment of the Navyto reconsider closure of WIC office, calling closure unacceptable WIC office will continue to serve close to 700 people connected to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA) applaudednews from the Department of Navy, which reversed its decision to close the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) office at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI). The WIC officehas been offered the opportunity to operate under a five-year lease directed by the Secretary of the Navy, without paying exorbitant building lease fees. Close to 700 people connected to NASWI use the servicesatthe WIC office, which offers supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education for pregnant women, infants, and children up to age five. The announcement that this vital assistance wont be shut down is great news for hundreds of servicemembers and military families who rely on this program to give their children a healthy start, Senator Murraysaid.I was proud to fight for this decision to be reversed for the military community that sacrifices so much for their country. Making sure our military families have the support they need to put food on the table is the least we should be doing, and this WIC office is an important part of making that happen for so many people in the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island community. ""I am glad that the Navy has come to this common sense decision. Community Action provides critical services in Skagit and Island Counties, including WIC, and I am pleased that military families will continue to have access to these nutrition programs on the base,""Congressman Larsensaid. ""As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I will continue to fight for military families. Those who sacrifice for our country should not have to worry about whether they can afford their next meal."" ""On behalf of the Navy WIC families we serve, Community Action owes a debt of gratitude to Senator Murray and Congressman Larsen for their steadfast support of young military families, and the way they have prioritized providing young children the best start possible,"" Bill Henkel, Executive Directorsaid. ""We also appreciate the leadership and our partners at NAS Whidbey Island for continuing to welcome us there. After serving Navy families on base for over 27 years we look forward to continuing to provide accessible support and services to our militarys families."" This springSenator Murrayand Congressman Larsen both wrote letters to Defense Secretary Ashton Carter asking for a reversal in the decision. In October, Murray and Larsen sent a second letter to Secretary Carter, urging him again to avoid closing the WIC office.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/fighting-for-florida?ContentRecord_id=368eafdd-9445-46c1-94e4-8378b8c157d6,"Looking Back on 2015, Excited about 2016",2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,FL,Marco Rubio,R000595,www.rubio.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As we look ahead to what promises to be an exciting and eventful 2016, my wife, Jeanette, and I would like to pause for a moment to reflect and give thanks for the year we are leaving behind. Although Washington continues to be a dysfunctional place that is out of touch and lacks the presidential leadership to confront the big challenges facing our country, I'm proud of the work my office and I did to make a real difference.With a chance to finally serve in a Republican Senate majority, 2015 proved to be our most impactful year in serving the people of Florida in the U.S. Senate. We learned that our successful effort to stop the taxpayer-funded bailout of health insurance companies that lose money under ObamaCare ended upsaving taxpayers $2.5 billionover the past year. And when the health insurers came back this year to get bailed out,we stopped themonce again. A bill I introduced to sanction the Iranian-backed terrorist group Hezbollahbecame law, providing the U.S. with an important tool to deprive these savages of money to rain rockets down on Israel and carry out terror attacks against U.S. assets, allies and interests throughout the Middle East. To combat the growing global crisis of children who never receive birth certificates - and its long-term consequences - I introduced and helped enact into law theGirls Count Act, which directs U.S. foreign assistance to aid countries in setting up birth registries. This new law will help ensure that millions of kids, the majority of them young girls, are not subjected to exploitation, human trafficking and social exclusion because they lack birth certificates to prove their identity. I was able to play a leading role inre-authorizing the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, which literally does the Lord's work in defending people around the world whose right to freely practice their faith is under assault. As part of my foreign policy work, it has also been a great honor serving as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee's Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, and Global Womens issues. The events unfolding every day in the Western Hemisphere have a significant impact on the state of Florida and our entire nation. As chairman, I convened hearings and conducted oversight on the Obama Administration's policies on important issues facing the region, including U.S.-Cuba relations, Venezuela and Haiti's elections, among others. I was also pleased that the budget passed by the Senate this past year included my provision in support of moving the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. And we've also continued our efforts to defend human rights around the world, championing the advocates of freedom in places like China through my work as co-chairman of the Congressional Executive Commission onChina. I've also continued advocating for those oppressed inCuba, Iran, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela, among other nations. And as part of our work in this area, we also began a regular social media campaign called#expressionNOToppressionto highlight political prisoners, dissidents and pro-democracy leaders whose freedom and very lives are threatened daily. Closer to home, after introducing legislation to de-authorize the Ten Mile Creek Water Preserve Project in Southeastern Florida - which has faced numerous problems and thus has been non-operational for too long - it became law as part of the end of year spending bill. Also on the domestic policy front, I proposed a pro-growth, pro-family tax reform plan that is designed to keep theAmerican Dream within reach of our people by resolving the major problems in our dysfunctional tax code. Throughout the year, I voted to equip our intelligence community with the tools they need to defend the homeland,protect innocent unborn life, defund Planned Parenthood, repeal ObamaCare, end sanctuary cities and put an end to the Export-Import Bank, among other issues. Unfortunately, until President Obama is replaced with a conservative president, real and lasting success on these and many other issues will continue to be elusive. In addition, we kept holding the Obama Administration's feet to the fire in implementing laws we helped lead toward passage in 2014, including Veterans Affairs (VA) accountability measures and sanctions against human rights violators in Venezuela. And last but not least, our biggest priority remained helping our constituents in navigating through the federal bureaucracy. This year, we produced the second volume of ourconstituent service report, which highlighted notable cases we've worked on that have helped improve the lives of Florida constituents in need of assistance. From January 2011 to December 2, 2015, our office received 31,024 requests for assistance, and over 29,429 of those requests were completed or closed. As I enter my final year in the U.S. Senate, it remains the greatest honor of my life to serve the entire state of Florida. Even as I continue to seek the office of the presidency, I renew my commitment to you and your family in assisting with any federal issues you are confronting. Happy New Year! Sincerely, Marco Rubio For more ways to stay connected with our office, be sure to like ourFacebookpage, follow the officeTwitter account, follow the office onFlipboard, check out our mobile apps, and subscribe to ourYouTube channel.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/old-man-wanted-more-than-money-in-branson-bank-robbery,Old man wanted more than money in Branson bank robbery,2015-12-31,2015,2015-12,Independent,House,VT,Bernard Sanders,S000033,www.sanders.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Old man wanted more than money in Branson bank robbery By: Harrison Keegan Thursday, December 31, 2015 Joseph Cyrus could barelyget the words out. He knew what he wanted to say, but he didn't want to break down in the courtroom. Cyrus' lawyer told him it was OK. Hecould wait until the sentencing hearing in a few months if he wanted.But the 77-year-oldCyrus couldn't wait. A proud man, Cyruscouldn't go another day without explaining himself. ""I wanted to be caught, your honor,"" Cyrus said from his wheelchair last month at the federal courthouse in Springfield.""I wanted to get some help from the United States government."" A masked Cyrus robbed the Central Bank on James Epps Road in Branson on Oct. 16, pointing what he says wasa plastic BBgunat the tellers. The reason he committed the crime, he said, was to get access to health care in the federal prison system. Continue reading here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://barletta.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lou-barletta-2015-year-in-review,Rep. Lou Barletta: 2015 Year in Review,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,PA,Lou Barletta,B001269,barletta.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Congressman Lou Barletta, PA-11, today reviewed the year 2015 in the United States House of Representatives and highlighted some notable improvements and achievements. Among the important issues covered during the year were continuing the fight against illegal immigration, protecting national security interests from refugees and problems with visas, preserving funding for SHINE, preventing heavier trucks from hitting the highways, and protecting steel jobs in Pennsylvania. Barletta indicated that he would continue the fight on those and other important issues as the 114th Congress resumes on January 5, 2016. The world is changing rapidly, and Congress must continue to work to address the evolving challenges we face as a nation, Barletta said. In 2015, we addressed many of those needs, and also found solutions to problems we have long been facing. But theres still work to be done. Barletta Priorities in Highway Bill Rep. Barletta, a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, was among House conferees appointed to negotiate the particulars of a five-year $305 billion Highway Bill, which included many of Barlettas highest priorities for the U.S. transportation system and its infrastructure. While voting for the bill, Barletta did express disappointment that the bill was a missed opportunity to develop serious reforms in transportation funding. Among Barlettas victories in the final bill were: Defeating Truck Weight Increase: Barletta was able to defeat efforts that would have increased the weight limit for trucks from 80,000 pounds to 91,000 pounds. Barletta said that local roads were not built to handle the increased weight, and the heavier trucks would pose a greater danger to their drivers and other motorists. Making Railway Cars Safer: Barletta successfully amended the highway bill to require railway tank cars carrying flammable liquids to be equipped with protections for their pressure safety valves. Newer tank cars already have this type of feature, but the legislation requires older cars to be retrofitted. The requirement would make it more unlikely for tank cars to burst into flames or explode in the event of an accident. Agricultural Vehicles Near Farms: The highway bill also contains Barlettas priority that states may adopt their own safety standards for agricultural vehicles operating near farms without jeopardizing federal transportation funding. Barletta authored theLocal Farm Vehicle Flexibility Actto allow states to permit farmers to operate vehicles that are technically uncovered as they travel from point to point on a farm or to a nearby processing facility, even if they traverse public roads in the process. Highway Safety Improvement Program: Barletta led efforts to ensure that the highway bill fully funds the Highway Safety Improvement Program, which pays for safety measures such as guardrails, retroreflective signs, and road markings. The Senate bill had previously reduced the program sharply. Safer Trucks and Buses: The highway bill includes much of BarlettasSafer Trucks and Buses Act, which seeks to reform safety scores for carriers by making the scores more reflective of the companys safety record. The legislation would temporarily halt the publication of flawed safety scores until the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrations (FMCSA) Compliance Safety Accountability (CSA) scoring system is revamped. The language in no way eliminates law enforcement access to safety data, meaning that the worst offenders can still be targeted Reducing Paperwork for Ready Mix Concrete Drivers: The bill reduces burdensome paperwork requirements for drivers of ready mix concrete trucks, without changing any on-duty rules. Currently, if a driver works for more than 12 hours in a shift, the driver must fill out a log book accounting for every 15 minutes of work. The maximum on-duty period allowed is 14 hours. The change simply makes the two requirements line up, eliminating unnecessary paperwork for the driver. Saving SHINE Funding and Replacing No Child Left Behind Barletta, a member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, supported the Student Success Act, which replaces No Child Left Behind, and importantly rescues federal funding for afterschool programs such as SHINE, originally slated to be eliminated before Barletta intervened. SHINE, or Schools and Homes In Education, is a successful educational program in Carbon, Luzerne, and Schuylkill Counties that Barletta has championed with state Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne/Carbon). By restoring the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program, Barletta has preserved a funding stream that accounts for 49 percent of SHINEs total funding. The bill,the Conference Report to Accompany S. 1177, was negotiated by House and Senate conferees and supplants No Child Left Behind, returning many educational decisions to states and localities. Beginning in February 2015, Barletta began painstakingly working to restore the 21st CCLC program. The original House version of the bill eliminated the program; however, Barletta negotiated 14 changes to the base text of the bill in support of afterschool programs, and specifically the SHINE model, in the House Education and the Workforce Committee. He also engaged in a colloquy with committee Chairman John Kline (MN-2) to establish a record of support for such programs. On the floor of the House, Barletta spoke in support of his own successful amendment that requires school districts to report to state agencies on the use of Title I money for afterschool activities to further demonstrate the importance of such programs. Finally, when the legislation reached the conference committee, Barletta sent a letter to lead House and Senate negotiators imploring them to preserve the 21st CCLC program. As a result, the conference report passed by the House authorizes $1 billion in funding for the 21st CCLC program. Fighting Illegal Immigration Sanctuary Cities Barletta once again introduced tough legislation cracking down on Sanctuary Cities that he first authored in 2011, theMobilizing Against Sanctuary Cities Act (H.R. 3002), which would prohibitanyfederal funding for a minimum period of one year to any state or local government which has a policy or law that prevents them from assisting immigration authorities in enforcing federal immigration law. A state or local government would only regain federal funding eligibility after the Attorney General certifies that its laws and policies are in compliance with federal immigration law. The legislation was in response to the July 1, 2015 San Francisco murder of 32-year-old Kate Steinle, whose accused killer is a seven-time felon who had been deported five times previously. Barletta has personal experience with a similar tragedy, as he was mayor of Hazleton in 2006 when a local man, Derek Kichline, was murdered by an illegal immigrant who had been released in New York, another sanctuary city. Barletta was also moved by meeting the parents of 20-year-old murder victim Carly Snyder of Northumberland County, who was stabbed 37 times by an illegal immigrant from Honduras in 2005. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats blocked a similar bill that would have defunded sanctuary cities. The House had already passed legislation withholding certain law-enforcement funding and grants. There are now 340 such sanctuary cities in the United States, according to the Center for Immigration Studies. Obamas Executive Amnesty Barletta led the fight to defund President Obamas illegal executive amnesty plans through the passage of an appropriations bill that would have defunded the amnesty program for illegal immigrants, largely through an amendment Barletta co-authored, had the bill been signed into law. The House approved the appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), along with the key amendment known as theAderholt/Mulvaney/Barletta Amendment. The House also adopted additional amendments Barletta supported, including one which stops the presidents Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which has abused the practice of prosecutorial discretion on immigration enforcement. Aderholt/Mulvaney/Barletta Amendment The lead amendment to the DHS appropriations bill was the one authored by Rep. Barletta, Rep. Robert Aderholt (AL-4), and Rep. Mick Mulvaney (SC-5). It was the Aderholt/Mulvaney/Barletta amendment which would have specifically defunded President Obamas executive amnesty. The Aderholt/Mulvaney/Barletta amendment addressed the Obama executive amnesty by: Preventing any funds from any source from being used to carry out the executive actions the president announced on November 20, 2014. Preventing any funds from any source from being used to carry out the so-called Morton Memos, which directed immigration officers to ignore broad categories of illegal immigrants. Declaring that no funds may be used to carry out any policies that are substantially similar to the ones being defunded. Declaring that the policies being defunded have no basis in federal law or the Constitution and therefore have no legal effect. Preventing any funds from being used to provide federal benefits to illegal immigrants intended to be impacted by the presidents executive amnesty. American Workers Barletta remained a leader in the fight against President Obamas executive amnesty for illegal immigration, arguing that the policy was a national security threat and unfairly favored illegal immigrants over legal immigrants and American workers. We have immigration laws in this country for two basic reasons: to preserve American jobs and to protect national security. President Barack Obamas unlawful executive actions to grant amnesty to at least 5 million illegal immigrants violate both of those principles. Any objective review must find that the presidents policies have placed the concerns of those who have broken our laws ahead of the interests of citizens and legal residents of the United States, Barletta wrote in an opinion column in Roll Call on March 23, 2015. Employment is difficult enough to find for millions of Americans and legal residents who woke up this morning without a pay check. On top of that hardship, the president has now introduced millions of new applicants who will compete for jobs that are already scarce. It is difficult to imagine how such a policy is beneficial to American workers. Strengthening National Security In 2015, Barletta, already a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, was named to the committees Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. Syrian Refugees Barletta voted against the $1.1 trillion Omnibus spending bill, primarily because it continued funding of the program that relocates Syrian refugees to the United States. In light of the terror attacks in San Bernardino and Paris, Barletta had proposed suspending the entire refugee program until thorough background checks and screenings can be reliably conducted. The Islamic State, or ISIS, has placed America atop its terror list, and has indicated it would use the refugee program to infiltrate the United States. In addition, Barletta backed the American SAFE Act, which requires comprehensive background checks of every refugee from Iraq or Syria before they can be admitted into the United States and certification that each does not pose a threat. No refugee from Iraq or Syria will be admitted into the U.S. unless: The FBI Director certifies the background investigation of each refugee. The Secretary of Homeland Security, along with the FBI Director and the Director of National Intelligence, certifies to Congress that each refugee is not a security threat to the United States. The DHS Inspector General independently assesses the refugee approvals, thus making sure that high-risk individuals do not slip through the cracks. Fusion Centers The House passed Barlettas legislation that clarifies and enhances the partnership between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the national network of fusion centers. A fusion center is a collaborative effort of two or more agencies, including federal, state, and local entities, which share resources and information to improve their ability to detect, prevent, and respond to terrorist or criminal activity. The bill, H.R. 3598, theFusion Center Enhancement Act, passed the House by a voice vote. The bill improves fusion centers by: Directing DHS to make sure its components are providing information and personnel to fusion centers to better cooperate with state and local officials. Requiring DHS to coordinate with fusion centers and State Homeland Security Advisors in carrying out assigned responsibilities. Requiring DHS to submit a report to Congress on its efforts to meet these requirements. Standing Firm on Iran Barlettavoted against approval of the Iran nuclear deal and in favor of legislation that prevents the President of the United States from lifting or easing sanctions against Iran until January 21, 2017. The bill Barletta voted against was H.R. 3461, which would have approved the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The bill failed by a bipartisan vote of 162-to-269, with one member voting present. The bill Barletta voted in favor of was H.R. 3460, which suspends the authority of the president to waive, suspend, reduce, provide relief from, or otherwise limit the application of sanctions pursuant to an agreement related to the nuclear program of Iran until January 21, 2017. The votes followed addition House action approving a resolution that found that President Obama is in violation of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015, which requires the president to transmit the agreement, including any secret side deals, to Congress for its approval. It is now known that Iran has cut such covert side agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and that they have not been provided to Congress. Defending Steel Jobs, Leveling the Playing Field Barletta was a key leader in protecting the steel industry during the passage of legislation that strengthens enforcement of U.S. customs and trade laws, and protects American employers and workers from unfair practices by companies in other nations. The conference report on theTrade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act (H.R. 644),which is the result of negotiations between the House and Senate, incorporates requirements Barletta insisted upon to protect American jobs from countries which illegally dump cheap products into markets like steel manufacturing. The provisions of the ENFORCE Act included in the conference report prevent countries from circumventing trade laws by shipping a product through another country and switching the label. For example, when China dumps steel into America, American steel companies spend time and money building a case against the Chinese dumping. If they win that case, the steel companies deserve to have the Chinese penalized for the dumping. The ENFORCE Act makes sure that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) actually investigates the American companies case. The ENFORCE Act gives CBP a strict deadline to review the case. American companies can pursue a case in U.S. Trade Court if the company believes CBP is rubberstamping the decisions without fairly reviewing the details. For his efforts, Barletta was named a 2015 Congressional Steel Champion by the American Iron and Steel Institute, an organization representing the majority of steel producers in North America. Barletta received the award in recognition of his efforts to strengthen antidumping and countervailing duty laws, and his leadership on the ENFORCE Act to improve the process to ensure the laws against unfair trade are strictly enforced. Saving Taxpayers $2.8 Billion As Chairman of the Subcommittee for Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Barletta is tasked with governing federal real estate assets, among other federal responsibilities. In that role, Barletta has steered federal agencies through an improvement in the way the federal real estate footprint is managed. Through creative use or renovation of existing properties, or through better structuring of leases, Barletta has saved taxpayers more than $2.8 billion since being named subcommittee chairman in 2013. Relieving Burden on the Taxpayers Barletta supported legislation that makes permanent many tax provisions and extends others, preventing a tax increase for millions of Americans.The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Actachieves certainty for individuals and businesses by extending or making permanent 55 provisions of the Internal Revenue Code that expired on December 31, 2014 and extending other policies for two and five years. Among the tax policies made permanent for individuals were: Enhanced Child Tax Credit. Enhanced American Opportunity Tax Credit (for post-secondary education). Enhanced Earned Income Credit. $250 deduction for K-12 teachers for school supplies (indexed for inflation). Charitable giving incentives (food inventory, conservation easements, and IRA charitable rollover). State and local sales tax deduction. Among the tax policies made permanent for businesses were: Research and Development Tax Credit. Section 179 Expensing (helps cyclical businesses like farming and construction invest in new property and equipment). Active financing exemption. 15-year recovery for leasehold and restaurant improvements. Charitable contributions of S corporations. 5-year recognition period for S corporation built-in-gains. The Medical Device Tax contained in Obamacare has been delayed by two years, helping device makers, their employees, and consumers. In addition, the legislation reins in the IRS and protects taxpayers by: Firing IRS employees who take politically-motivated actions against taxpayers. Requiring IRS employees to respect the taxpayer bill of rights. Prohibiting IRS employees from using personal email accounts for official business. Fighting the Jeansville Mine Fire Barletta assumed a leadership role in finding a solution to the Jeansville mine fire, which has been burning for decades near the village of Tresckow in Banks Township in Carbon County. He pressed federal, state, and local authorities for a solution to the ongoing public safety hazard, and also convened a meeting with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and local officials in September to exchange information about the problem. As a result of the coordinated efforts, DEP has awarded a contract to Hazleton Shaft Corporation to isolate and extinguish the Jeansville mine fire. According to DEP, the $9.3 million contract involves digging two isolation trenches to contain the fire and stop it from spreading. The project will involve the excavation of approximately 2.6 million cubic yards of material to isolate the fire on the south side. A water supply for the fire will be obtained by connecting to a line owned by the Hazleton City Authority and from a well to the mine pool which lies below the area. Protecting Correctional Officers Barletta co-sponsored legislation that requires the U.S. Bureau of Prisons to supply oleoresin capsicum spray, commonly known as pepper spray, to prison officers or employees who may respond to emergency situations with inmates. TheEric Williams Correctional Officer Protection Act(H.R. 472) is named for an officer at the United States Prison at Canaan who was brutally murdered by an inmate in 2013. Senior Correctional Officer Eric Williams, of Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, was murdered by convicted gang assassin Jessie Con-ui at the high security prison on February 25, 2013. Con-ui, a member of the violent New Mexican Mafia gang, was serving an 11-year sentence when he suddenly attacked Officer Williams, knocked him down a flight of stairs, and stabbed him more than 200 times with homemade blades known as shanks. Con-ui is charged with first-degree murder, first-degree murder of a U.S. corrections officer, and possessing contraband in prison. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. Preserving Veterans Cemeteries as Places of Honor Legislation Barletta introduced would ensure that veterans buried in military cemeteries are truly eligible for that honor and have not been convicted of state or federal capital crimes. The legislation,Berties Respect for National Cemeteries Act, is named for Pennsylvanian Bertha Bertie Smith, who was murdered by a man who was subsequently interred in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Pennsylvania. The legislation also provides for her killers removal from the cemetery. This legislation is supported by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Berties Respect for National Cemeteries Act was made necessary by the burial of George Emery Siple at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. Siple was convicted of the October 15, 1969 capital murder of Bertie Smith outside a local store front. He was interred in the cemetery upon his death in prison in 1999, despite his evident ineligibility under current law. Smiths family has been unsuccessful to this point in petitioning for his disinterment. The legislation: Requires Department of Veterans Administration (VA) National Cemeteries and Arlington National Cemetery to take every reasonable action, including searching public criminal records, to ensure that a veteran is eligible to be buried. Allows for the disinterment of veterans convicted of capital crimes, to apply to all burials after 1997. Provides for the disinterment of George Emery Siple. Defending Innocent Life Barletta supported legislation, theRestoring Americans Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act of 2015 (H.R. 3762), which dismantles Obamacare, places a moratorium on funding of clinics which provide abortions, provides new funding for womens health centers, and reduces deficits by an estimated $130 billion over ten years. Under the Fiscal Year 2015 concurrent Budget Resolution, three House committees were required to produce legislation to bring spending into line with the law through a process known as budget reconciliation. As a result, the Education and the Workforce, the Energy and Commerce, and the Ways and Means Committees reported legislation to the Budget Committee, which combined the three into H.R. 3762. Barletta also backed a resolution that established a select committee to investigate potential wrongdoing and lawbreaking involved in abortion provider practices. The move came in the wake of videos exposing Planned Parenthoods practice of selling the organs and body parts of unborn children. Specifically the committee will look into medical procedures and business practices involving fetal tissue procurement, federal funding and support for abortion providers, and providers of late-term abortions, including partial birth abortion and procedures for the care of a child born alive as a result of an attempted abortion. The Congressman co-sponsored two important bills to protect unborn children. H.R. 3134, theDefund Planned Parenthood Act, eliminates federal funding of that abortion provider while the practice of selling fetal body parts and organs is investigated. In addition, H.R. 3504, theBorn-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, requires any health care practitioner present to administer medical attention to a baby born alive following an attempted abortion. Backing Israel In a year that saw history made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus address to Congress, Barletta was outspoken in his support for Israel, Americas strongest ally in the Middle East. Barletta was an original cosponsor ofH.Res. 485, which expresses solidarity with the people of Israel in the wake of recent terrorist attacks and condemns the Palestinian Authority for inciting an atmosphere of violence. The resolution details a number of recent terrorist attacks supported and encouraged by the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, and is also critical of propaganda efforts intended to increase the surge of violence against Israeli citizens. Barletta was also an original cosponsor ofH.Res. 500, which expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the State of Israel has the right to defend itself against Iranian hostility and that the House pledges to support Israel in its efforts to maintain its sovereignty. The resolution contends that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, otherwise known as the Iran Nuclear Deal, diminishes Israels national security. Barletta has been a harsh critic of the deal President Obama approved, which paves the way for Iran to obtain nuclear weapons. Welcoming Pope Francis Congress welcomed Pope Francis to Washington, DC in September, and Barletta expressed his admiration for the Holy Father by saying, It was a singular honor for me and my wife, Mary Grace, to be present in the House chamber when Pope Francis addressed a joint session of Congress, the first time any pope has done so. These are very troubling times in which we live, and the popes message of peace is something that people of all faiths or no faith at all can benefit from. We should be greeting the Holy Father as Americans, not as Republicans or Democrats, and check our politics at the door as we do so. He is the leader of one of the great religions of the world, the successor to Saint Peter, and we should all listen to and reflect on what he has to say. Barletta also presented a painting by Hazleton artist Salvadore DeFazio titled A Prayer for Peace to the pontiffs traveling staff. The painting depicts a pair of hands reaching upward, toward a dove and star in the sky. DeFazio was also named Hazletons first poet laureate while Barletta was mayor of the city. Looking out for Volunteer Firefighters For the fourth time, Barletta introduced his legislation to protect volunteer firefighters and emergency responders from the unintended consequences of Obamacare. Barlettas bill, theProtecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act, ensures that emergency services volunteers are not counted as full-time employees by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) under the Employer Mandate of Obamacare. If volunteer fire companies were subject to the mandates of Obamacare, they could be liable for crippling new health care costs, causing many to have to close their doors. The House previously has passed similar legislation on three separate occasions by a combined unanimous vote of 1,226-to-0. The legislation is supported by the National Volunteer Fire Council, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and the Congressional Fire Services Institute. In 2014, after months of pressure from Barletta, other members of Congress, and firefighters, the IRS indicated that it will not count hours of volunteer firefighters and emergency responders when determining an employers full-time employees in compliance with Obamacare. Barletta, however, has continued to pursue passage of his legislation as insurance against future changes from the IRS. Connecting to Main Street In 2015, Congressman Barletta continued his Main Street Tours, during which he visited local businesses and heard the concerns and ideas of small employers and citizens. Barletta has conducted nearly thirty Main Street Tours since 2013 in communities across the 11th District. While Barletta indicated that while he was pleased with the successes of 2015 and the first session of the 114th Congress, he will continue to fight for the 11th District of Pennsylvania. If 2015 taught us anything, its that it is much better to get half a loaf of bread than no loaf at all, Barletta said. We have much more work to do, and I look forward to 2016.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-releases-2015-year-end-report,Cicilline Releases 2015 Year-End Report,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,RI,David Cicilline,C001084,cicilline.house.gov,,,legacy,"PAWTUCKET U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline today released a 2015 Year-End Report that highlights some of the work his office completed this year in four key areas: getting Rhode Islanders back to work, promoting efficiency in government, delivering federal resources to Rhode Island, and leading on critical policy issues. As 2015 draws to a close, I am extraordinarily grateful for the opportunity you have given me to represent you in the Congress of the United States, wrote Cicilline. The progress we have made would never have been possible if it werent for the active support and engagement I have received from folks all across Rhode Islands First District. I want to sincerely thank you for the work that you do. It is an honor to serve on your behalf. A copy of Congressman Cicillines 2015 Year-End Report can be downloaded by clicking here. Among the highlights included in the report are: Helped deliver $335.5 million in federal funding back to Rhode Island. Introduced and passed the Brickle Amendment into law, requiring the Departments of Defense and State to publicly document their work to notify American manufacturers regarding overseas procurement opportunities. Worked with Republican Congressman Steve Chabot to introduce and pass the Small Business Investment Company Capital Act through the House to expand access to capital for small businesses. Assisted with 1,437 constituent requests for casework, including help with Social Security benefits, IRS tax refunds, health care services, and more. Responded to 20,883 letters and emails from constituents. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cohen.house.gov/press-release/cohen-commends-mayor-wharton-city-memphis-completion-restoration-airways-boulevard,"Cohen Commends Mayor Wharton, City of Memphis on Completion of Restoration of Airways Boulevard Bridge",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,,,legacy,"[MEMPHIS, TN] Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) commended Mayor A C Wharton, Jr. and the City of Memphis today on the completion of the restoration of the Airways Boulevard Bridge over Noncannah Creek, bringing to a close the $5.5 million project that will grant Memphians safer and more expedient access to the Memphis International Airport, and that will keep the surrounding area active and accessible. The project to replace the Airways Boulevard Bridge was a collaborative effort between the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the City of Memphis, and the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA). The Airways Boulevard Bridge is an important fixture in our Memphis economy, said Congressman Cohen. The airport is the gateway to Memphis, and the Airways Boulevard Bridge is the pathway many travelers rely on to transport them safely to and from that gateway. I am pleased that the City of Memphis was able to secure such robust federal funding through FEMA in order to restore the bridge to safe, working order, and that the citizens of Memphis will be able to utilize the restored bridge having used only a small portion of city funds. The City of Memphis must continue to work to receive its fair portion of federal dollars. I was pleased on December 18th to have voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus federal spending bill, which included the $4 million increase I requested for funding to end the rape kit backlog, made permanent the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, the education tax credit for college students and teachers, and included funding to federal agencies such as FEMA so that they can continue to provide much-needed federal dollars to cities like Memphis for vital restoration projects such as the Airways Boulevard Bridge. Completion of the bridge will help Memphians and visitors travel to and from the Memphis International Airport, and I am pleased that the City of Memphis was able to work with state and federal agencies to complete this important restoration project. The $5.5 million project to replace the Airways Boulevard Bridge over Noncannah Creek began in late 2013. The City of Memphis was awarded a grant covering 75% of the construction costs of a replacement bridge through the FEMAs Hazard Mitigation Grant Program in 2011. TEMA awarded a grant covering a further 12.5% of construction costs, leaving the City of Memphis responsible for the remaining 12.5% of construction costs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://jasonsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-jason-smith-organizes-open-town-hall-meeting-at-clara,Congressman Jason Smith organizes open Town Hall Meeting at Clara Drinkwater Library to discuss Mississippi River Levels and surrounding Levees,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Jason Smith,S001195,jasonsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Cape Girardeau, MO On Thursday, December 31, 2015 at 4pm, Congressman Jason Smith invites residents and media to speak directly with the Army Corps on the recent record rainfall and current levels on the Mississippi River. The meeting will provide an opportunity for the Army Corps and others to give a status update on current river levels, projected levels, and what the plan is for each levee. After the update, residents and the media will have a chance to ask questions. WHO: U.S. Congressman Jason Smith (MO-08) Major General Wehr, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi Valley Division Colonel Anderson, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi Valley Division Sam E. Angel, Mississippi River Valley Commission The Honorable Norma Jean Mattei, Mississippi River Valley Commission WHAT:Status update and discussion on recent record rainfall and Levee integrity WHERE:Clara Drinkwater Library, 105 E Marshall St, Charleston, MO WHEN: Thursday, December 31, 4pm ***Members of the media are invited to the meeting***",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lobiondo.house.gov/event/martin-luther-king-day-federal-offices-closed,Martin Luther King Day - Federal Offices Closed,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Frank LoBiondo,L000554,lobiondo.house.gov,,,legacy,"Martin Luther King Day - Federal Offices Closed Start: January 18, 2016 End: January 18, 2016 Dec 30, 2015",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lobiondo.house.gov/event/presidents-day-federal-offices-closed-0,President's Day - Federal Offices Closed,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Frank LoBiondo,L000554,lobiondo.house.gov,,,legacy,"President's Day - Federal Offices Closed Start: February 15, 2016 End: February 15, 2016 Dec 30, 2015",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398666,Luetkemeyer Ranked Among Most Effective Lawmakers in House of Representatives,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Blaine Luetkemeyer,L000569,luetkemeyer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Luetkemeyer Ranked Among Most Effective Lawmakers in House of Representatives f t # e Washington, December 30, 2015 In a recent study performed by the Legislative Effectiveness Project (LEP), U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) was ranked Missouris most effective lawmaker. share: f t In a recent study performed by the Legislative Effectiveness Project (LEP), U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) was ranked Missouris most effective lawmaker. The Legislative Effectiveness Project is run by professors at the University of Virginia and Vanderbilt University and measures how successful a given representative is at getting things done. The average Legislative Effectiveness Score for any given member in the 113th Congress was 1.0. Luetkemeyer received a 2.344. In addition, Luetkemeyer was ranked 45th out of the 240 Republicans in the House of Representatives. The list can be found here. As a Member of Congress, one of the most important parts of the job is to listen to your constituents and take what they have told you back to Washington to put their concerns and ideas into action. Thats what the legislation that I introduce each year is all about. I am very pleased to be recognized as an effective lawmaker but it does not happen alone. It takes collaboration with and support from my colleagues, along with assistance from my staff, for bills to pass through committees, the House, the Senate, and be enacted into law. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norton-asks-fta-to-help-give-wmata-a-fresh-start-with-a-new-financial,Norton Asks FTA to Help Give WMATA a Fresh Start with a New Financial Monitoring Regime That Relieves Agencys Short-Term Borrowing,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,DC,Eleanor Norton,N000147,norton.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.The office of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), ranking member of the Highways and Transit Subcommittee and one of the Big Four leaders who wrote the recently signed surface transportation legislation, today released her letter to Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Acting Administrator Therese McMillan inquiring whether the new year should bring changes in the current form of FTA monitoring of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to help relieve the transit agency from dependence on short-term borrowing. Norton asked FTA to look into whether a new infusion of federal funding for WMATA, WMATAs new leadership and its new budget and financial controls could lead FTA to use a form of financial monitoring that does not cause WMATA to seek short-term borrowing for its daily operations in the new year. For the past 21 months, FTA has required WMATA to submit all requested federal reimbursements through paper rather than the electronic methods typically used after FTA found serious weaknesses in WMATAs budget and financial controls. In her letter, Norton detailed the material weaknesses FTA found and the extensive changes WMATA has made, but said that she believed WMATA must continue to be under a FTA monitoring regime for now. Norton wrote, As one of the four bipartisan House leaders of the recently enacted FAST Act, I was able to get a 25 percent increase in federal transit funding for the District of Columbia, most of which will go to WMATA for state of good repair capital projects. In addition, working with regional Members, we got the full $150 million capital spending restored. WMATA must take full advantage of this unusual increase....[T]his fundingshould be used as a springboard, not a back-fill. Now would be a good time to encourage a new start, considering whether changes at WMATA, including new leadership, should lead to some changes in the nature of the monitoring process other than paper procedures that have contributed to short term borrowing for operations. I believe that it is too early to relieve WMATA of strict monitoring, but even with the new funding and the changesWMATA may lose any headway effect and continue to tread water, with its riders continuing to pay the price. Nortons full letter is below. Therese McMillan Acting Administrator Federal Transit Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Acting Administrator McMillan: I very much appreciate the Federal Transit Administrations (FTA) oversight of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). The need for oversight over WMATA remains clear. To reinforce your oversight, as the lead Highways and Transit Subcommittee Democrat on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, my bill, the Protect Riders of Metrorail Public Transportation (PROMPT) Act, was included in the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act and broadened to include other jurisdictions as well, and just approved by Congress. I write now concerning the FTA action that placed WMATA on drawdown restrictions for its federal reimbursements after the FTAs regularly scheduled Financial Management Overview (FMO) found a number of material weaknesses in WMATAs budget controls and significant weaknesses in its management of FTA funded assets. FTAs FMO found material weaknesses in WMATAs budget controls, controls over reporting of federal expenditures, and controls over procurement. FTA found significant deficiencies in WMATA audit committee oversight of compliance and internal controls, cash and grant management controls, management and disposition of FTA funded assets, access controls over the financial management system, controls over job order contracts, and implementation of the federal financial reporting process and procedures. FTA also issued advisory comments with regard to improving documented procedures for payroll and human resources, organizational structure, an entity-wide risk assessment, and risk assessment of WMATAs financial management system. I have been pleased to read often of FTAs work to change the safety regime at WMATA. WMATA has concurred with all of the FTA findings and has steadfastly undertaken corrective actions. To address the FMO, WMATA has done the following: hired Deloitte to conduct an internal controls analysis of the asset management and financial accounting life cycle processes, created and implemented a Standard Operating Procedures document, revised procurement manuals, and restructured management so that the Chief Procurement Officer is elevated to the Executive Leadership Team. FTA has approved WMATAs corrective action plan. As you know, for the past 21 months, WMATA has been subject to drawdown restrictions requiring every requested reimbursement to be filed and reviewed by the FTA through a paper method, rather than the electronic, automatic method that other transit agencies use. While the FTA has placed similar drawdown restrictions on other large transit agencies with similar financial management issues, the reimbursement process faced by WMATA is lengthy, adding days if not weeks to what would take one day electronically. What concerns me most now is that because of the delay in reimbursements, WMATA has had to go to the marketplace to obtain short-term credit on three occasions simply to sustain its operations, adding costs to a transit system that is already in need of funding. As I have indicated, I understand and am grateful for FTAs FMO which has led to a new set of budget and financial controls. Through its work with the FTA, WMATA has brought in a new financial team and has worked with apparent success to address every finding and recommendation of the FTA. Further, I understand that the new Chief Financial Officer has been responsive and cooperative to FTAs requests. WMATA submitted its 2014 audit this August and will be submitting its 2015 audit in the near future. On November 30, 2015, WMATA brought on board an entirely new financial team and now a new general manager. I have not heard complaints from WMATA about its drawdown procedures, which were plainly necessary when they were imposed, and I believe close monitoring of WMATAs financial procedures remains necessary. WMATAs problems are comprehensive from management and operations to finances. That is why as one of the four bipartisan House leaders of the recently enacted FAST Act, I was able to get a 25 percent increase in federal transit funding for the District of Columbia, most of which will go to WMATA for state of good repair capital projects. In addition, working with regional Members, we got the full $150 million capital spending restored. WMATA must take full advantage of this unusual increase in funding to build upon as the agency moves forward. I believe that this funding, to the greatest extent possible, should be used as a springboard, not a back-fill. Now would be a good time to encourage a new start considering whether changes at WMATA, including new leadership, should lead to some changes in the nature of the monitoring process other than paper procedures that have contributed to short term borrowing for operations. I believe that it is too early to relieve WMATA of strict monitoring, but even with the new funding and the changes outlined above, WMATA may lose any headway effect and continue to tread water, with its riders continuing to pay the price. Does FTA believe that contributing to WMATAs borrowing is still necessary whatever its progress and should continue until there is no need of monitoring whatsoever? Is there any form of monitoring other than the current paper method that would do the job and might reduce the need for borrowing for current operations? I am pleased that WMATA is not raising fares but instead is contemplating unprecedented relief for riders, to allow WMATA to recover from a 5 percent decrease in ridership over the last five years. This is probably a smart strategy considering the current estrangement of riders, but in the short term, such relief for riders will likely mean further losses. I am not in a position, as you are, to know whether changes in monitoring are advisable or, if so, what form the process should take. I write only to suggest a fresh look by FTA as to whether or not paper drawdown procedures are the only way FTA can monitor WMATA. Sincerely, Eleanor Holmes Norton ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://roby.house.gov/column/new-year-strong-start,"A New Year, A Strong Start",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AL,Martha Roby,R000591,roby.house.gov,,,legacy,"As the House convenes for the Second Session of the 114th Congress, it is important to get off to a strong start. Thats why Im pleased the very first bill to be considered this year is a plan to repeal Obamacare and begin the process of replacing it with healthcare policy that works. It is past time for this law to go.Under Obamacare, many in Alabama and throughout the country lost the health plans they liked. Many have been forced to go to different doctors, to say nothing of the doctors who stopped practicing altogether. Premiums skyrocketed and many middle class families are being impacted by new taxes, fees and penalties. I wouldnt blame you for thinking, So what? The House has voted to repeal Obamacare dozens of times. Its true that my colleagues and I in the House have voted more than 50 times to repeal, defund or replace the presidents health care law. And, each time, our efforts are ultimately blocked in the Senate, where Republicans lack the 60 votes needed to overcome a Democratic filibuster. Whats different this time? This time our plan was carefully crafted to follow the Senates special Reconciliation rule that allows certain budget-related legislation to go through by a majority vote regardless of a filibuster. The Senate came through in late 2015 passing the Obamacare repeal reconciliation package by a vote of 52-47. That means when the House takes up and passes the measure first thing this year, we will finally send a bill repealing Obamacare to the presidents desk. Some may quibble that this is somehow an empty gesture. After all, President Obama will never sign a bill repealing his signature legislative achievement and the law that bears his name. However, as veteran lawmakers like Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) and Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) have pointed out, forcing a veto puts accountability for this deceptive, costly healthcare law squarely on President Obama. It also sends a clear message to the American people that, under a new president in 2017, Congress stands ready to replace this disastrous law with healthcare policies that put patients first. Thats a message I believe will be well-received, especially now. Just as Obamacare mandates and penalties have started setting in, many signing up for health plans are facing higher premiums, fewer doctors and skimpier coverage,"" according to The Wall Street Journal. For those who do get coverage, the out-of-pocket expenses of actually seeing a doctor have risen dramatically in a maze of deductibles, copays, and co-insurance, the paper reports. Yes, President Obama can stop our Obamacare repeal reconciliation package from becoming law this year. But, he cannot stop the growing chorus of Americans unhappy with the higher costs and broken promises of his healthcare law. Their voices are being heard in Congress, where, finally, a majority in both the House and Senate are ready to end this failed experiment and deliver better, more workable healthcare policy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398853,No Child Should Ever Be Without a Home,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,OH,Steve Stivers,S001187,stivers.house.gov,,,legacy,"Recently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released its Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress. This report provides a point-in-time count of homeless Americans, an estimate which is based upon the numbers collected on one particular night in January. The count includes homeless individuals living in shelters, and those identified by volunteers who survey places such as streets, parks, rail stations and all-night businesses where those who are homeless frequently seek shelter. share: f t Recently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released its Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress. This report provides a point-in-time count of homeless Americans, an estimate which is based upon the numbers collected on one particular night in January. The count includes homeless individuals living in shelters, and those identified by volunteers who survey places such as streets, parks, rail stations and all-night businesses where those who are homeless frequently seek shelter. In 2015, HUD identified 128,000 homeless children under the age of 18 in the United States. This reflects a 5.8 percent decrease from the numbers it released for 2014. While a decrease in the number of homeless youth would be cause to celebrate, unfortunately, these numbers dont provide a complete picture of the problem. In fact, the HUD survey does not consider the places most homeless families and youth can be found, which is staying temporarily with other people, or in motels. By comparison, the Department of Education, which does consider these living arrangements, identified more than 1.3 million homeless children and youth in the 2013-2014 school year, a number that was UP from 2012-2013. Two different federal agencies with two completely different stories to tell as it relates to homeless youth -- this is a discrepancy we must fix to ensure that the federal government has accurate data and the information it needs to best serve this extremely vulnerable population. Thats why Representative Dave Loebsack (D-IA) and I introduced the Homeless Children and Youth Act last January. This bipartisan legislation would require HUD to adopt a more accurate definition of homelessness, to ensure that homeless children and youth are eligible for the same assistance available to homeless adults. Specifically, our bill would expand HUDs definition of homeless to include all children and youth who are already verified as homeless by several other federal educational and social services programs. No child should ever be without a home, let alone be forced to navigate bureaucratic red tape just to prove that they are actually homeless and to get access to available services that will help get them back on their feet. This change would help HUD more effectively serve these young people, and they could do it at no new cost to American taxpayers. Representative Loebsack and I have been working closely with First Focus Campaign for Children, the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth, the National Parent Teacher Association, the National Network for Youth, the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, and the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare to garner support for this important legislation. In addition, a companion bill has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Diane Feinstein (D-CA). As temperatures begin to drop and provide more challenges for homeless Americans everywhere, it is my hope that Congress will act soon on this bipartisan and common-sense effort to serve those most in need. -30- Steve Stivers is a three-term Member of Congress from Ohios 15th Congressional District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://tipton.house.gov/press-release/tipton-statement-usfs-ski-area-water-rights-directive,Tipton Statement on USFS Ski Area Water Rights Directive,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,CO,Scott Tipton,T000470,tipton.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONToday, Congressman Scott Tipton (R-CO) issued this statement in response to the U.S. Forest Services publication of the final directive for the Ski Area Water Clause in the federal record. The Forest Services conditional use of permit for ski areas has been one of the Administrations most onerous attempts to hijack private water rights. While the latest version of the directive is improved from the original that sought to outright force the transfer of private water rights to the federal government, there still is room for improvement. The latest rendition of this ill-fated directive places unnecessary restrictions on private water rights holders, in an attempt to solve a problem that doesnt exist. By the Forest Service Chiefs own admission, there has not been an instance of ski area water rights being sold off for other uses. Furthermore, there is still ongoing concern that while the Forest Service may not require the outright transfer of private water rights in this directive, it is still enforcing manuals that do. Western water users are right to be wary of any action on water rights by this Administration, which has been dead set on slowly expanding federal control over water in the Western U.S. We continue to work on getting legislative protections in place to codify state water law and defend private water rights users from federal taking and interference as our Water Rights Protection Act seeks to do. Despite the Forest Services insistence that under the new ski area permit condition it will no longer require the transfer of water rights, Forest Service manual 2441.32 (Possessory Interests), which is currently being enforced, instructs the agency to continue to claim water rights of permittees. It is unclear if or how the Forest Service plans to reconcile the conflicting instructions. Section 2541.32 of the 2007 Forest Service Water Uses and Development Manual directs: Claim possessory interest in water rights in the name of the United States for water uses on National Forest System lands as follows: Claim water rights for water used directly by the Forest Service and by the general public on the National Forest System. Claim water rights for water used by permittees, contractors, and other authorized users of the National Forest System, to carry out activities related to multiple use objectives. Make these claims if both water use and water development are on the National Forest System and one or more of the following situations exists: a. National Forest management alternatives or efficiency will be limited if another party holds the water right. b. Forest Service programs or activities will continue after the current permittee, contractors or other authorized user discontinues operations. See the full manual HERE. Tipton has led the charge in Congress to protect private water rights users from federal takings and interference. He is the sponsor of the Water Rights Protection Act, H.R. 1830, which would provide water users with a line of defense from federal attempts, such as the Forest Service Groundwater Management Directive and ski area permit clause, to take private water rights without compensation or restrict user access to them. H.R. 1830 has passed the House in the 113th and 114th Congresses, and has wide support from local, state and national stakeholders including the National Ski Areas Association.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398564,Upton Reviews 2015 and Looks Ahead to 2016 in New Report,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MI,Fred Upton,U000031,upton.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, today released a new report titled 2015: The Year in Review and a Look Ahead which outlines many of the legislative and policy priorities his office tackled in 2015 and looks towards the new year. We had a busy year working to move the ball down the field by focusing on commonsense, bipartisan solutions to problems faced by families and businesses here in Southwest Michigan and across the country, said Upton, who also chairs the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Im proud of the progress weve made on a host of fronts, and look forward to the new year as we still have much work yet to be done as we pursue an ambitious, pro-growth agenda. Im excited and optimistic about the opportunities before us as we continue to get the job done for everyone in Southwest Michigan. The report breaks down specific policy areas in which Congressman Upton has been a bipartisan community leader; jobs and the economy, healthcare innovation, veterans care, homeland security, education, the Great Lakes, Medicare and Medicaid, agriculture, opioid abuse, infrastructure, and the Internet. Click HERE to read the report.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-marc-veasey-s-two-terms-in-review,Congressman Marc Veaseys Two Terms in Review,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,TX,Marc Veasey,V000131,veasey.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Congressman Marc Veasey, TX-33, released the following statement reviewing his key legislative accomplishments since being sworn into office in 2013 and work he has done on behalf of the residents in the 33rd Congressional District: As 2015 draws to a close, I would like to take some time to reflect on some of the key legislative goals we have accomplished for the 33rd Congressional District since 2013. After hearing your concerns regarding affordable and reliable transportation for seniors through Handitran in Arlington, I offered an amendment to the long-term transportation and infrastructure bill which was approved by 363-64 vote to reinstate funding for transit services for the elderly and disabled. Transit providers that offer paratransit service in our community, like Handitran, ensure that our elderly and disabled neighbors can remain independent by giving them access to employment, education, healthcare, shopping, and the other services they need. Of great importance to the DFW Metroplex is the recent passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation is very important to the local economy as it will fund vital security programs and increase funding for Lockheed Martins F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I was a key author of the NDAA that passed through Committee and the full House on a bipartisan basis. The passed bill included six of my amendments, including my amendment that evaluated how recent Executive Actions regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program and prosecutorial discretion for undocumented immigrants currently residing in the U.S. impact our nations military readiness if these individuals are made eligible for enlistment. As a strong advocate for North Texas Families, I voted in favor of the two-year Bipartisan Budget Deal and FY2016 Omnibus to help grow our economy and build economic security by investing in job training programs, advanced manufacturing, education, and research. As your U.S. Congressman, I serve as your liaison to the federal government. If you have an issue or problem with a federal government agency, my staff and I are ready to assist you. As of December 18, 2015 my staff and I have helped 1,359 DFW residents cut through the red tape and we will continue to provide services to assist you. As the nations economy continues to rebuild, I continue to fight to sustain and create well-paying jobs right here in our community. Since 2013, I have visited 167 businesses in the Metroplex and have invited local businesses that are actively hiring to participate in my annual job fair. This years 3rd Annual Job Fair on November 20, 2015, brought over 80 participating companies actively hiring for 3,000 positions. I look forward to hosting many more. I am proud to represent the 33rd Congressional District but we can only be as successful if we work together. I welcome your calls, letters, and emails so I can learn how to improve the daily lives of Texans. There is still much to accomplish, including passing comprehensive immigration reform, ensuring well-paying jobs by raising the wage for many hard-working families, and ensuring that all Texans have quality affordable health care. I look forward to working hard on behalf of the DFW Metroplex in the future. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-murphy-himes-pool-safety-grants-for-bridgeport-and-stamford,"Blumenthal, Murphy, Himes Applaud over $206,000 in Pool Safety Grants for Bridgeport and Stamford",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,CT,Richard Blumenthal,B001277,www.blumenthal.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Blumenthal, Murphy, Himes Applaud over $206,000 in Pool Safety Grants for Bridgeport and Stamford Print Tweet U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Grants Awarded to Combat Pool and Spa Drownings and Drain Entrapments Wednesday, December 30, 2015 (HARTFORD, CT)- Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-4) applauded $206,225 in grants for the cities of Bridgeport and Stamford from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to provide assistance for education, training, and enforcement of pool safety requirements aimed at preventing pool and spa drownings and drain entrapments. The City of Bridgeport will be awarded $74,973 for the Bridgeport Water Safety Awareness Project to expand on current water safety education and compliance efforts, including regular inspections of all public pools by city inspectors and on-site enforcement personnel to ensure compliance with current rules and regulations. The Project will also include free-to-the public swimming instruction. The City of Stamford will be awarded $131,252 for Stamfords Pool Safety Program and will partner with the Stamford Family YMCA to segment their current learn- to- swim curriculum with the YMCA of the USAs Safety Around Water program, increase the amount of youth receiving water safety education, and expand training and education opportunities for staff and Certified Pool Operators. Drowning is the number one cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1 to 4 nationwide tragedies that we can and must do more to prevent, said Blumenthal, Murphy and Himes. This critical federal funding will help ensure that the cities of Bridgeport and Stamford can expand on their current water safety initiatives to support more robust pool safety education and compliance, increase access to swimming instruction, and provide meaningful training opportunities for staff and pool operators. We applaud this wise investment that will keep our children and families safe while enjoying the recreational and health benefits of swimming. My husbandBrian and I are very proud that two cities in our home state of Connecticut -- Bridgeport and Stamford -- decided to pursue and secure federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety grants. Not a day goes by where we at The ZAC Foundation aren't working to achieve our mission of ensuring no other family suffers from a water-related tragedy. We applaud Senator Blumenthal, Senator Murphy and Representative Himes for their commitment to water safety and the pursuit of these grants, which will go a long way to advance water safetyeducation, training and inspections to more Connecticut pools, community centers and families. The ZAC Foundation stands ready to support and partner with these communities to advance this mission, said Karen Cohn, water safety advocate and co-founder of The ZAC Foundation. The ZAC Foundation was established in 2008 by Brian and Karen Cohn after the loss of their 6-year-old son Zachary Archer Cohn in a pool drain entrapment in their backyard swimming pool in Greenwich. Through education and advocacy, the Foundation is dedicated to preparing children and their families for a lifetime of swimming safety. The Pool Safety Grant program, a first-of its kind grant program aimed at preventing pool and spa drownings and drain entrapments, is authorized through the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, (VGB Act) that was signed into law December 2007. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-confirmation-that-puerto-rico-will-default-on-portion-of-debt-obligations-due-january-4,Blumenthal Statement on Confirmation That Puerto Rico Will Default on Portion of Debt Obligations Due January 4,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,CT,Richard Blumenthal,B001277,www.blumenthal.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Blumenthal Statement on Confirmation That Puerto Rico Will Default on Portion of Debt Obligations Due January 4 Print Tweet Wednesday, December 30, 2015 (Hartford, CT) U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) today released the following statement after top officials from Puerto Rico confirmed that the commonwealth will default on a portion of the nearly $1 billion in debt obligations due to its bondholders on January 4. With Puerto Rico now on the verge of defaulting on tax revenue-backed bonds, the island is open to messy, costly, and completely avoidable lawsuits. Todays announcement is just the latest reminder that Puerto Rico has neither the money to pay off its creditors nor access to an orderly process for restructuring its debt. Congress cannot continue to bury its head in the sand while 3.5 million U.S. citizens in Puerto Rico suffer we must act now. This summer, Blumenthal introduced the Puerto Rico Chapter 9 Uniformity Act which would address the growing fiscal crisis by granting Puerto Rico the authority to allow its municipalities and public utilities to restructure their debts under the supervision of a bankruptcy court, authority which is already currently granted to all U.S. states. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ContentRecord_id=1f75cd94-3d62-4be9-8515-616901dfce81,"Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.30.15 Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities Senator Holds Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable in Bismarck with local officials and business leaders to outline key legislative accomplishments that he worked to advance throughout the year and that Congress included in legislation passed this month. Hoeven worked with his congressional colleagues to address North Dakotas priorities and meet the needs of the states families, schools, businesses and farmers across a wide variety of areas, including energy, tax, education, transportation and regulatory policy. We secured important priorities for our state and nation, Hoeven said. We lifted the ban on crude oil exports, provided tax relief, restored local control over education standards and ensured stronger funding for long-term infrastructure projects. These accomplishments will provide considerable benefits for our businesses and our families by promoting greater economic growth and local autonomy. Senator Hoeven helped to successfully pass the following measures through Congress this December: Lifting the Ban on Crude Oil Exports Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy Committee, repeatedly called for the repeal of the outdated crude oil export ban and cosponsored bipartisan legislation earlier this year to do just that. Allowing crude oil exports will support domestic energy production, grow the nations economy, provide good jobs for workers, reduce fuel costs for consumers and enhance the security of the U.S. and our allies. Tax Relief for Small Business and Farmers Approved tax relief totaling $680 billion over ten years. Included a permanent extension of Section 179 with the $500,000 limitation and a five-year extension of bonus deprecation, important provisions that provide small businesses certainty and flexibility in planning their long-term finances. Extended permanently the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for private investments made in affordable housing. The credits are used by the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency alongside state programs to ensure an adequate housing supply is available for the states workers and their families. Provided relief from Obamacares costly and burdensome mandates, including a two-year delay of the tax on businesses that pay their employees health care plans and a two-year delay of the Medical Device Tax. Regulatory Relief for Farmers and Ranchers Blocked the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from reinstating the Waters of the U.S. Interpretive Rule, preserving the general agriculture exemption under the Clean Water Act for farmers and ranchers. Restoring Local Control over Education Passed the Every Student Succeeds Act, education authorization legislation that repeals No Child Left Behind, restores local control over education standards, replaces one-size-fits-all accountability requirements with state-designed systems and ends the Common Core mandate. Strengthened Impact Aid for schools affected by the loss of property taxes due to nearby military bases and other federal land. Included a provision based on legislation offered by Senators Hoeven and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to bolster Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Providing Flexibility in School Nutrition Requirements Approved Hoevens school nutrition reform amendment, which gives flexibility to schools struggling to comply with the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) whole-grain and sodium standards during the 2016-2017 school year. Allows schools to retain the original USDA whole-grain requirement of 50 percent, rather than requiring that 100 percent of all grains served be whole-grain rich. Prevents the Administration from requiring further reductions in sodium, which have already been brought down to the Target 1 level. Further reductions in sodium are not currently supported by scientific evidence and would be difficult for schools to achieve due to increased costs and limited available food products that children would actually eat. Passing a Five-Year Highway Bill Passed the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, a five-year highway bill that is fully paid for. Provides North Dakota with more than $1.3 billion, increases annual funding for the state by $23 million per year, up to $263 million, provides $76 million over five years for transit projects in the state and enables more than 100 projects in the state to move forward. Includes Hoevens Driver Privacy Act, legislation that establishes in law that the owner of a vehicle is also the owner of any information collected by an Event Data Recorder (EDR). Restores the $3 billion that was cut from crop insurance earlier this year. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/public-events?ContentRecord_id=6df9171c-2fd6-430b-8453-abbbf6dd55f3,Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Event December 30 2016 11:00 AM On Wednesday, December 30, Senator Hoeven will host a roundtable with the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce to review North Dakota legislative priorities that he worked to advance this year and that passed Congress in December, including: Lifting the ban on crude oil exports Providing tax relief for small businesses and farmers Providing regulatory relief for farmers and ranchers through stopping the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) Waters of the U.S. regulation Ensuring education funding and local control Providing school meal flexibility in sodium and grain requirements Passing the five-year highway bill, which will provide North Dakota with more than $1.3 billion and enable more than 100 N.D. transportation projects to advance Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce WHEN: Wednesday, December 30 11:00 a.m. CT WHERE: Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce 1640 Burnt Boat Drive Bismarck",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/get-latest-southern-illinois-flooding-here,"Get the Latest on the Southern Illinois Flooding, HERE.",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"Because I want to do everything I can to provide Southern Illinoisans with the resources they need should this flood damage or destroy property, I am providing residents with the following links for up-to-date information concerning the Flood of 2015. For a list of available Red Cross shelters should you need to evacuate your home or business, clickHERE. For a list of the latestroad closings throughout Southern Illinois, click HERE. Most importantly, please DO NOT attempt to drive your car into a high water area. We have already seen tragedy associated with residents trying to cross roadways in order to get to higher elevations. If you have any questions, please contact my office in Belleville at (618) 233-8026 or in Carbondale at (618) 457-5787. The most important thing you can do is pray for our residents, first responders and all those directly impacted by this flooding. Thank you. Mike. Our next stop was Alexander County where we talked to workers and local officials at the county highway garage in Olive Branch. I'm continuing our tour of areas in the 12th District most prone to flooding or that have already seen flooding. We're now in Grand Tower, one of the areas that may see some of the worst flooding, talking with residents and officials in that community. We've had wonderful response and communication from the Army Corps of Engineers. With me addressing questions from residents and officials in Grand Tower is Major General Michael Wehr. A critical part of getting needed information out to our residents is the local media and I thank them for doing, just that. Reporters from WSIL TV 3 and KFVS TV 12 were here, talking to residents and us about the latest flooding information to pass on to their viewers. Thank you for helping Southern Illinoisans stay informed! In Alton, dozens of volunteers helped place sandbags ahead of where water is expected to rise. Mayor Brant Walker told me flooding was expected in the basements of the downtown business district but they are preparing for the worst. We also met with officials from FEMA as we continue communication with all the federal, state and local agencies involved to work together in helping our Southern Illinoisans. As I continue to tour the areas of the District impacted by the flooding, I stopped in Alton to talk with Mayor Brant Walker. Alton is along the Mississippi River in Madison County and is about 15 miles north of St. Louis. It's been an amazing experience seeing Southern Illinoisans coming out to help their neighbors, even though many have never met. I was touched to see members of the Civic Memorial High School football team in Bethalto come to Alton to help fill sand bags. The Southern Illinois spirit is strong as we help each other! If you get a chance, please share this photo to let others know what these young men did for their community! Please continue to pray for all those impacted by this severe flooding from our residents to our local businesses and our first responders. The response of Southern Illinoisans to help their neighbors has been overwhelming. If you need to move to a shelter, here's a site that will provide you with that information. Just click on the state of Illinois and look to the right of the screen. It's there where you'll find the current list of shelters in Southern Illinois operated by the Red Cross. You can access that website, HERE. For the latest information on road closures, flood warnings and watches, you can go to a site maintained by the State of Illinois. It is updated on a regular basis. To find out more, click HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=577,Prince William Living: Connolly's Thoughts on Transportation Issues,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,VA,Gerald Connolly,C001078,connolly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Connolly shared his thoughts on transportation issues facing Prince William County, and efforts to begin the conversation on extending Metro to Prince William. Read more. share: f t Peter LineberryMetrorail service along the I-95 and I-66 corridors, extending south to Woodbridge and west to Manassas, might be the ultimate revitalization project for Prince William. County officials are clearly in favor of it. But how likely is it to happen, and in what time frame?Gerald “Gerry” Connolly represents Virginia’s Eleventh Congressional District, which encompasses most of Fairfax County and eastern Prince William, as well as part of the Route 66 corridor.  He graciously and exclusively shares his thoughts about Metro and related transportation issues with our online readers.“Community revitalization efforts can breathe new life into a neighborhood and its residents, whether it is as simple as sprucing up a store front or a more grand scale transformation that includes improving how people get to and from the places they want to go. Few things trigger such a visceral reaction in our region as traffic and the amount of time spent stuck in it, and I have spent most of my life in public office advocating for increased investments in transportation.“During my tenure on the [Fairfax] Board of Supervisors, and now in Congress, I have been proud to partner with Prince William County to advance improvements for interstates 95 and 66 and for expanding mass transit services. For example, the Recovery Act alone invested millions of dollars in Prince William to purchase new locomotives for VRE, new buses for PRTC, widen the Prince William County Parkway, and to make other road repairs across the county.“Based on my experience in local government, revitalization efforts that were paired with road and/or transit improvements proved to be the most successful, and, in some cases, those improvements fueled the revitalization itself. Just look at the success of the new Mosaic District in Merrifield, where new commercial and residential developments are thriving thanks to road improvements that unclogged a notorious bottleneck and development that better ties into the nearby Dunn Loring Metro Station. Of course, the arrival of the Silver Line in Tysons sparked more transit-, pedestrian-friendly redevelopment years in advance based on the anticipation of Metro’s arrival in the region’s “downtown.” There is a synergy and excitement that is palpable when people begin to realize the return these transportation investments have on their quality of life and in delivering new amenities for them to enjoy.“There are multiple revitalization opportunities, large and small, across Prince William. I have pushed to have a robust community discussion about the possibility of using a Metro expansion as a catalyst for those opportunities, whether it’s in the I-95 or I-66 corridors. The Silver Line had been discussed since the 1960s, but the real effort began in earnest with a feasibility study in the mid-1980s. We may be a number of years away from trains running in Prince William, but thousands of our residents already are driving into Fairfax to hop on Metro, and there is growing interest across the county for another commuting choice. Doing nothing is not an option.“The recent action by the Prince William Board of County Supervisors to endorse this legislation is another important step towards determining whether Metro to Prince William County is in our future. I introduced HR 779 because we needed to start a conversation about studying the extension of Metro to Prince William now, so that we’re ready when the opportunity arrives. Since then, I have worked to build local support, and we’ve been successful — more than 200 people attended a community forum I organized and the Prince William Chamber of Commerce, the Dale City Civic Association, and the Town of Dumfries have all endorsed the idea. That local support is a necessary prerequisite to secure state support for going forward with the federal process.“I know Metro is facing some very real challenges due to a lack of investment in maintenance and capital improvements. That’s why I’m proud to have fought successfully in each of the last six years to deliver $150 million in federal capital funding that will help Metro to upgrade its network and purchase new rail cars. With the right investments and the right management, Metro has said it could be ready for an extension as soon as 2025. The question is: Will we be ready? The potential return on this investment in terms of revitalization and quality of life are significant. For the sake of Prince William commuters, we have to try.”http://princewilliamliving.com/2015/12/connollys-thoughts-transportation-issues/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://costa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costa-says-hate-crime-against-fresno-sikh-man-inexcusable-and,Costa Strongly Condemns Hate Crime Against Fresno Sikh Man,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,CA,Jim Costa,C001059,costa.house.gov,,,legacy,"Fresno, CA Rep. Jim Costa released the following statement strongly condemning the hate crime against Amrik Singh Bal, a Sikh man from Fresno, California. The hate crime that took place in Fresno on Saturday is both inexcusable and intolerable. Sadly, since September 11, 2001, the Sikh community has endured discrimination because of the lack of understanding about Sikhism, which is based on equality and love. As a nation of immigrants, we have the opportunity to learn and benefit from thousands of different cultures, and that is part of what makes the United States special. We must never forget that. Every American citizen regardless of race, creed, or gender has the right to live free of discrimination and fear. My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Singh and his family. I commend all of the agencies that are working diligently to find the two individuals who are responsible for the attack. In 2013, the U.S. Department of Justice added Sikh to the categories they track for hate crime offenses in the United States, and Rep. Costa applauded that decision. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://costello.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costello-encourages-pa-06-residents-apply-us-passport-early,Costello Encourages PA-06 Residents to Apply for U.S. Passport Early,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,PA,Ryan Costello,C001106,costello.house.gov,,,legacy,"West Chester, PA Ahead of 2016, Congressman Ryan Costello (PA-06) took the opportunity to provide the following public service announcement to individuals seeking to obtain or renew a United States passport in the coming year. Recently, Secretary of State John Kerry issued a warning that the 10-year anniversary of the implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative may prompt a surge in passport applications, and consequently result in a slower process. The Department estimates that nearly 45 million passports will expire in the next three years, compared to 26 million in the past three years. As State Department staff work to meet their service commitments, they are encouraging travelers to take the necessary steps to start the application process early. Costello echoed the warning for travelers not to wait until the last weeks to renew their passports: If you have plans to travel abroad in the coming year, I encourage you to make sure your passport is up to date well before your departure, said Congressman Costello. Pennsylvania Sixth District residents seeking a passport should submit their application at least 6-8 weeks before their date of travel, particularly if you are submitting an application in the spring or summer months when the volume of applications is larger.For individuals that may run into problems, my casework staff is happy to help constituents ensure the process moves along. Congressman Costellos office urged constituents who are filing as a first time applicant to be sure their birth certificate includes their parents names and raised seal on it.Additionally, many countries require travelers passports to have at least six months validity, so passport holders should not wait for their document to expire prior to submitting the renewal application. Casework staff is available to answer any questions applicants may have. Staff can be reached at the Wyomissing District Office (610) 376-7630 or by visiting Costello.house.gov. For more information on applying for a United States passport, please visit travel.state.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-announces-veterans-will-stay-seacrest-retirement-home,DeLauro Announces Veterans Will Stay at Seacrest Retirement Home,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,CT,Rosa DeLauro,D000216,delauro.house.gov,,,legacy,"NEW HAVEN, CT (December 30, 2015) Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today announced that Connecticut veterans living in the Seacrest Retirement Center and similar facilities are able to remain in the facility, without the threat of losing benefits or care. The change comes as part of the omnibus bill passed by Congress earlier this month. Veterans living at Seacrest now have the assurance that they will continue to receive the care they deserve. Forcing these veterans to lose their benefits because of an error that was not their fault would have been wrong, and in some cases may not have been in the best interest of their mental or physical well-being, said Rosa DeLauro. After serving our nation, no veteran should ever have to worry about not receiving care, especially in retirement when additional health issues may arise. This legislation gives these veterans the certainty that they deserve, and I applaud Congress for taking action to address this critical issue. On behalf of the men and women who live at Seacrest, and who have protected and defended our country, thank you to Congresswoman DeLauro for working to correct an administrative error by the Veterans Administration, said Lewis Bower, owner of Seacrest. We at Seacrest are forever indebted to the veterans that have served our country, and we are privileged to provide them care. The veterans at Seacrest can now live with assurance from the federal government that their care will be providedfor as result of this legislation. In 2013, 23 veterans at the Seacrest Retirement Center in West Haven, HighVue Manor in Hamden, and Mattatuck Health Care in Waterbury were notified by the VA Connecticut Healthcare System that, due to a VA error, care in these homes has been erroneously covered. The 10 who are being granted another year at Seacrest and HighVue are part of that original group of 23. DeLauro has been working with the VA to ensure that the veterans who would like to stay at Seacrest are able to do so. Earlier this year, DeLauro introduced theVeterans Residential Care Choice Act, which would allow the VA to pay for eligible veterans to live at residential care facilities, such as Seacrest. However, while the omnibus bill directs the VA to make this payment for veterans currently living at these facilities, DeLauro will continue to push for passage of the Veterans Residential Care Choice Act to ensure that other eligible veterans also receive the same benefit. The language in the omnibus bill states:Equitable Relief It is understood that VA is working to implement new systems and protocols to eliminate instances of administrative error. However, as VA enacts system-wide reforms, ending equitable relief for veterans who were deemed eligible for benefits in error would place an unfair burden on veterans and their families. The Secretary is directed to continue to grant or extend equitable relief to eligible veterans initially deemed eligible in instances of administrative error. Not later than April 1, 2016, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees a report containing a statement as to the disposition of each case recommended to the Secretary for equitable relief under 38 U.S.C 503 during the preceding calendar year. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://donovan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/donovan-blasts-obama-kerry-appeasing-iran-expense-american-security,"Donovan Blasts Obama, Kerry for Appeasing Iran at Expense of American Security",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Daniel Donovan,D000625,donovan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Staten Island, NYDecember 30, 2015.Congressman Dan Donovan (NY-11) today voiced strong opposition to the Obama administrations pledge to protect Iranian business interests by waiving Congressionally-mandated travel visa restrictions. Congressman Donovan said, Apparently, Irans business interests come before American security and citizens. Its yet another weak and wrongheaded step in the Obama administrations long road of placating our enemies. At issue is a Donovan-supported measure passed into law as part of the year-end funding package. It requires travelers to obtain a visa before visiting the United States if they have also visited Iran, Iraq, Syria, or Sudan in the past five years. This includes citizens of the 38 countries which participate in a visa-waiver program with the United States. The goal is to make it more difficult for would-be terrorists to enter America. Iran took issue with the security restrictions, arguing they came about as a result of the Zionist lobby and directly contradict the parameters of the nuclear deal agreed to earlier this year. In response, Secretary of State John Kerry penned a letter to his Iranian counterpart assuaging Irans concerns and promising to implement the law so as not to interfere with legitimate business interests of Iran. Donovan continued, Iran still holds American prisoners who were ignored as part of the nuclear negotiations, and Iran violated U.N. missile test restrictions just two months ago. Despite the regimes flagrant disregard for American citizens and international norms, the Obama administration immediately submitted to Irans complaints. Several Americans have been held captive in Iran for years. Even after the nuclear deal, Iran convicted an American reporter on bogus espionage charges and arrested an American businessman. Earlier this month, United Nations experts announced that Iran violated an international resolution when it conducted a missile test in October. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://fudge.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1685,"Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge Appoints New 11th Congressional District Director, Kevin L. McDaniel",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,OH,Marcia Fudge,F000455,fudge.house.gov,,,legacy,"WARRENSVILLE HEIGHTS, OH - Today, Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) announced the appointment of Kevin L. McDaniel as 11th Congressional District Director. Mr. McDaniel will oversee the Summit County and Cuyahoga County offices starting January 4, 2016. Prior to joining the office, Mr. McDaniel served as Program Director at the United Way of Greater Cleveland, Program Officer at the Cleveland Foundation, and Director of Admissions at Cuyahoga County Community College. Mr. McDaniel has an extensive record of public service and has demonstrated his dedication to the greater Cleveland community. He has the experience and leadership skills necessary to direct and work with my local staff as they continue to serve the people of Ohio's 11th District, said Congresswoman Fudge. Current District Director John Hairston will be retiring after more than four years with the Congresswomans office. Mr. Hairston has had a distinguished career focused on improving the lives of others. He began as an English teacher and later assumed leadership roles as Chief of Communications for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and Director of External Programs at NASA John H. Glenn Research Center. Congresswoman Fudge continued, ""John Hairston has served the 11th Congressional District with honor and distinction, and I thank him for his service. John is a public servant, community leader, and a dear friend. He has guided my staff and their District outreach and casework for more than four years and will be missed. I wish him well in retirement! ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://marchant.house.gov/2015/12/30/congress-to-send-obamacare-repeal-planned-parenthood-defunding-to-the-presidents-desk/,"Congress to send Obamacare repeal, Planned Parenthood defunding to the presidents desk",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Kenny Marchant,M001158,marchant.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congress to send Obamacare repeal, Planned Parenthood defunding to the presidents desk December 30, 2015 Congress to send Obamacare repeal, Planned Parenthood defunding to the presidents desk Information from Speaker Ryan Press Office December 30, 2015 View Online | http://spkrryan.us/1MH9eWs Next week, for the first time, Congress will send the president a billrepealing Obamacareanddefunding Planned Parenthood. That bill is called theRestoring Americans Healthcare Freedom ReconciliationAct, and you canread it here. Here are three reasons why this bill is so important: Repeals Obamacare.With each passing day, it becomes more apparent that Obamacare is an unmitigated disaster for hardworking families and our economy. Millions of Americans have already been kicked off plans the presidentrepeatedly promisedthey could keep, while countless others face the sticker shock ofdouble-digit premium increases. This bill effectively repeals the mandates and taxes at the heart of the law.This will be the first Obamacare repeal bill that Congress sends to President Obama since the laws enactment in 2010. This, of course, is a critical step in replacing this law with a patient-centered plan as a part of abold, pro-growth agenda. Defunds Planned Parenthood.The horrific videos released earlier this year depicting Planned Parenthood affiliates harvesting and selling fetal body parts should offend everyone regardless of political persuasion. The House has already responded byestablishing a panelfocused on investigating this practice. In the meantime, Americans should not be forced to fund this organization. Thats whyCongress will act to defund Planned Parenthood, and shift those resources to community health centers. Forces President Obamas Hand.Weve worked tirelessly to dismantle Obamacare and protect Americans from this law. All told, weve forced President Obama to signat least 10 billsthat chip away at parts of Obamacare. The recent year-end funding legislationincludedno new money for Obamacare and prohibited a taxpayer bailout of Obamacares risk corridor program. We also delayed taxes at the heart of the law, forcing the president to make his biggest concession since Obamacare went into effect. Still, thats not enough. So were usingreconciliation, a budget mechanism that can only be used once every year. Its an opportunity to avoid a filibuster from Senate Democrats and put conservative priorities directly on the presidents desk. This is our best shot to stand up for our principles on behalf of the American people. You can use this bill once a year, and were using it for this, Speaker Ryansaid recentlyon Bill Bennetts show. In doing so, were forcing the president to confront the failures of this law once and for all. We owe it to the country to take our best shot at repealing Obamacare, and thats what we will do next week. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/aderholt-only-alabama-republican-vote-omnibus-states-congressional,Aderholt only Alabama Republican to vote for omnibus; State's congressional delegation weighs in on budget,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AL,Gary Palmer,P000609,palmer.house.gov,,,legacy,"Although Congress passed a bi-partisan budget deal on Friday to avert a government shutdown, only two members of the Alabama delegation followed the leaders of their parties' call to approve the omnibus bill that funds the government until September. U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, and Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, were the only two ""yes"" votes for the omnibus in the House; both Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions voted against it in the Senate, as they previously indicated they would. The $1.1 trillion omnibus package was a compromise hashed out by legislative leaders that includes lifting America's 30-year ban on exporting oil, funding increases for NASA, the Veterans Affairs department, federal workers, the National Institutes of Health and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (there are 12 HBCUs in Alabama.) But it also left out key Republican priorities like blocking the president's Syrian refugee resettlement plan and defunding Planned Parenthood. Aderholt, a conservative Republican who plays a key role in the annual National Prayer Breakfast, said he voted for the bill because it continued a ban on federally monies from going to abortion except in cases of rape, incest or if the life of the mother is in danger. ""The bill is known more for what it is not than for what it is. While I was able to get some important language included for the pro-life movement, the bill does not contain other riders I had hoped for such as tying the president's hands on the Syrian refugees and peeling back the EPA water regulation. That is a big disappointment,"" he said in a statement. ""The good news is that this bill is the last vestiges of Speaker Boehner's style of leadership and in two weeks we will start putting together a bill that with conservative principles will pass with conservative votes."" Sewell cited the NIH increase and funding boosts to HBCUs and other education programs, as well as money allocated to preserve historic civil rights cites as among the reasons she was one of166 Democrats to approve the omnibus in the House. The Democrats were joined by 150 Republicans who voted ""yes,"" while 95 Republicans and 18 Democrats voted against it. ""This is not a perfect bill, but I am proud that both sides of the aisle were able to work out a compromise that benefits our nation, and helps us continue to grow,"" Sewell said in a statement. The rest of the Alabama delegation all Republicans were united in their opposition to the omnibus, with most of them pointing to the Syrian refugee issue as the reason why they voted against the bill. ""I am outraged that the bill that passed today did not prohibit funding for President Obama to bring refugees from the Syrian conflict to America,"" said Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Saks. ""What happened in California demonstrates that Islamic terrorists are ready and willing to use our lax immigration system to enter our country and do us harm."" Rep. Bradley Byrne, R-Fairhope, agreed. ""Our nation is at war, and I could not support a government funding bill that fails to address the reality of the serious security challenges our nation his facing,"" he said in a statement. ""I was disappointed the bill did not include provisions to block any funding from going to the Syrian refugee resettlement program. For months now, I have been warning about the legitimate problems posed by this program, and this bill fails to prevent the president from bringing Syrian refugees into the United States."" Although Shelby fought for language in the bill that is beneficial to Alabama, including a provision on rockets that affects some 850 jobs in Decatur and expanding access to red snapper on the Gulf Coast, he said the Syrian issue outweighed the positives. Sessions echoed Shelby's sentiment on Syria and also criticized the bill for increasing the number of visas and green cards. It also did not satisfy Sessions' concerns on illegal immigration or defunding sanctuary cities. Rep. Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, also cited the Decatur jobs and other provisions that would help his district as among the measures he liked in the bill, but said his economic concerns spurred him to vote against the omnibus. ""Financial experts have repeatedly warned Washington of America's increasing debilitating insolvency and bankruptcy if Washington does not cease its out-of-control spending habits,"" he said, adding that the bill increases the debt by ""hundreds of billions of dollars."" Rep. Gary Palmer, R-Hoover, who is in the conservative House Freedom Caucus with Brooks, also mentioned the debt as the rationale for his ""no"" vote. ""A spending bill should reflect the priorities of our nation,"" he said. ""This $1.1 trillion bill does not. It continues to pile debt on our children without sufficient reforms."" A spokesman for Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, suggested the bill wasn't conservative enough to earn her vote. ""Representative Roby takes her role as a member of the Appropriations Committee seriously,"" said Todd Stacy. ""In the end, this omnibus bill does not reflect the conservative principles House appropriators worked on and fought for all year, so she voted against it.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=93C34490-DECB-4AF5-F958-620DD10290E9,Bennet Statement on Water Clause in Ski Area Permits,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,CO,Michael Bennet,B001267,www.bennet.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Denver, CO - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement in response to today's announcement from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) on water in ski area permits: ""Water is a precious resource on which Colorado's ski areas rely for economic sustainability and growth. We are lucky to live in a state with world class skiing right in our back yard and we want to keep it that way. The final directive, published today, seems more balanced than the Forest Service's original directive. We are hopeful that it will be workable for all sides by protecting private water rights and keeping Colorado's ski resorts sustainable long into the future."" According to recent study by Colorado Ski Country USA and Vail Resorts, Inc., Colorado's ski industry generates $4.8 billion each year for our economy and supports more than 46,000 year-round equivalent jobs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/weekly-columns?ContentRecord_id=6233b924-df4e-445c-82fa-11d43eb1957a,2015 in Review,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As we close the book on another year and celebrate the excitement and promise of a New Year, I want to highlight some of the Senates accomplishments in 2015. Under new Republican leadership, the Senate set out to restore responsibility to the fiscal process. We passed the first bicameral budget since 2009. More importantly, the first balanced budget since 2001. And all twelve appropriations bills were approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee for the first time in six years. We took big strides in providing relief to hardworking Arkansans and their families. Most significantly, we passed the first Obamacare repeal bill that will make it to the Presidents desk. The legislation we passed would begin to lift the burdens and higher costs the failed program has placed on every Arkansan. It begins to build a bridge from the presidents broken promises to a better health care system for hardworking families across the country. The Obamacare repeal isnt the only relief we have sought to provide the people of Arkansas from the Obama Administrations regulatory excesses. The Senate has passed measures to overturn the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) mandate and the carbon rules on new and existing power plants, two glaring examples of administration overreach. These EPA mandates strip Arkansans of their personal property rights, stifle job growth and will raise the cost-of-living for every Arkansan. While the President will likely veto these bills, Senate passage of them sends a clear message of disapproval of these policies on behalf of the American people. Certainly not all of our accomplishments have met a veto pen. People often ask me why Congress cant work together to get things done for the American people. I can honestly say that we are. We started off the year with by passing the groundbreaking Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans (SAV) Act to ensure our veterans receive mental health services. We also prevented a cut to Medicare providers that would have left many Arkansas seniors desperately searching for new doctors. This year we came together to pass the first multi-year highway bill since 2005. It will allow Arkansas and other states for important infrastructure improvements, which are so vital to our economic well-being. Hundreds of projects in Arkansas were at risk of cancellation or further delays if a long-term bill was not passed. The Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act was signed into law by President Obama on December 4, 2015. The President also signed the first significant education reform bill since 2002. Im proud of what weve been able to accomplish this year, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Arkansas congressional delegation on your behalf in the coming year. I am confident we will continue to build off of 2015s successes to create policies that will help make 2016 and years to come better for the people of Arkansas. I wish you and your family all the best for the new year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.burr.senate.gov/press/releases/sen-burr-recaps-strategic-legislative-accomplishments-for-2015-,Sen. Burr Recaps Strategic Legislative Accomplishments for 2015,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NC,Richard Burr,B001135,www.burr.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.30.15 Sen. Burr Recaps Strategic Legislative Accomplishments for 2015 WASHINGTON Today, Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) revisited several of his high profile legislative accomplishments for 2015 including an important conservation program renewal, education funding for low-income families, military reforms and transportation improvements. Senator Burr said: Over the last year, I successfully wrote several bills that have since become law. These new laws will enhance the lives of our veterans, help children from low-income families get better education and enable transportation improvements for high traffic corridors. Im pleased that I delivered for North Carolina in 2015. Every day, my staff and I work to make sure that our federal dollars are efficiently used in the state. This year was a productive one in Congress, and that means $24 million to children from low-income families, and a revitalized military in North Carolina. As Intel Committee Chairman, I introduced legislation which was signed into law that addresses serious weaknesses in our ability to protect Americans against cyber-attacks. I can and will keep fighting for North Carolina families. A few of Sen. Burrs legislative successes from 2015: Title II Education Funding Reform in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) In addition to repealing the common core mandate, ESSA includes language sponsored by Burr that fixes an inequity in federal education funding that for 15 years has not only shortchanged North Carolinas teachers and schools, but also the low-income students they serve across North Carolina. The funding fix will add $24 million each year for school programs. Senator Burr introduced on April 16th 2015. Signed into law December 10th 2015. Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 The Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act helps protect Americans personal privacy by taking steps to stop future cyber-attacks before they happen. This legislation creates an environment that encourages the sharing of information about cyber threats, allowing all participants to get a better understanding of the current threats that may be used against them. A series of high profile hacks exposed the personal information of millions of Americans to online identity thieves, including Americans with high level security clearances. Senator Burr introduced the legislation on March 17th 2015 and was marked up the following day. Signed into law December 18th 2015. Land and Water Conservation Fund Reauthorization (LWCF) Sen. Burr began advocating for a full, permanent reauthorization of the popular conservation fund several years ago. The authorization of the fund expired in September, but after leading the fight in the Senate to renew this fund, Congress passed a three year extension. Established in 1964, the LWCF is one of Americas most successful federal conservation programs, conserving irreplaceable lands and improving outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the nation. It requires no taxpayer funding. Senator Burr introduced February 3rd 2015. Signed into law December 18th 2015. North Carolina Highway Improvements in the Transportation Bill, Fixing Americas Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act) Included in the comprehensive transportation bill (FAST Act) areprovisions introducedby Senators Tillis and Burr that amend the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 and designate the following North Carolina highways as high priority corridors and future interstates: Raleigh-Norfolk Corridor from Raleigh, North Carolina, through Rocky Mount, Williamston, and Elizabeth City, North Carolina, to Norfolk, Virginia. U.S. Route 70 from its intersection with Interstate Route 40 in Garner to the Port at Morehead City, and U.S. Route 117/Interstate Route 795 from U.S. Route 70 in Goldsboro to Interstate Route 40 west of Faison. The designation of the highways advances the North Carolina Department of Transportations Strategic Transportation Corridors Vision, which aims to provide North Carolina with a network of high priority corridors that will become part of the Interstate system once they are fully built and upgraded to interstate standards. Sens. Tillis and Burr introduced the legislation on May 14th 2015. Signed into law on December 4th 2015. Military Sex Offender Reporting Act of 2015 (MSORA) The Military Sex Offender Reporting Act of 2015 (MSORA), introduced by Senator Burr, requires the Department of Defense to directly report sex offenders convicted or punished under article 47 of the Uniform Military Code of Justice (UCMJ) to the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) administered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website. Previously, sex offenders convicted under UCMJ were required to self-report to a local jurisdiction upon their release. Under these new laws, communities can be fully aware of former offenders in their neighborhoods. Senator Burr introduced the legislation February 6th 2015. Signed into law in June of 2015. Print Email Tweet Previous Article Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-finishes-2015-with-major-legislative-wins,Casey Finishes 2015 With Major Legislative Wins,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,PA,Bob Casey,C001070,www.casey.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. As the 2015 legislative year comes to an end, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced several major legislative wins and public laws he led to passage on behalf of Pennsylvanians. 13 Casey led bills were enacted into law in 2015; 7 bills introduced by Casey, and 6 bills on which he served as the lead Democratic sponsor. These public laws will help improve the lives of Pennsylvanians across all spectrums, creating jobs, keeping kids in school by creating a more positive school climate, and keeping drivers safe by providing $73,796,694 annually to fix off-system bridges. I was pleased to guide into law a number of bills that will help Pennsylvanians and the economy of the Commonwealth, especially efforts to create jobs, keep kids in school, and improve our infrastructure, said Senator Casey. Theres much more to be done in the coming year to make sure children learn more early in life so they earn more later and so middle class incomes increase. The full list of bills Senator Casey led as well as bills he was the lead Democrat on can be found below. Casey Lead Depreciation Fairness Act S.394- The bill makes permanent the 15-year depreciation period for qualified leasehold improvement property, qualified restaurant property, and qualified retail improvement property. It ensures the depreciation schedule permanently reflects the economic useful life of these types of investments. This change will provide businesses with the certainty they need to undertake capital expenditures, which will fuel economic activity and create jobs. Major portions of this bill were incorporated into Section 123 of the PATH Act, H.R. 2029, which became public law on December 18, 2015. Keep Kids in School Act S 672. This legislation requires states and school districts to report on the use of exclusionary discipline and create plans to reduce its use. The bill also provides funding to implement activities that have been proven to create a more positive school climate. Major portions of this bill were incorporated into Sections 1005 and 4304 of the Every Student Succeeds Act, S. 1177, which became Public Law 114-95 on December 10, 2015. Better Educator Support and Training (BEST) Act S 882. This bill reforms the educator professional development pieces within the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. With the passage of the Every Student Achieves Act (ESSA) ESEA reauthorization, states and districts are now required to implement evidence-based activities that help keep teachers in the classroom, strengthen the teaching profession, and ensure principals have the skills they need to be effective by setting aside specific resources for their professional development. Major portions of this bill were incorporated into Title IIA of the Every Student Succeeds Act, S. 1177, which became Public Law 114-95 on December 10, 2015. Empowering Parents and Students Through Information Act S 528. This legislation helps ensure that Americas six million K-12 students with disabilities and their families have access to necessary information to make informed decisions on their childs education and future opportunities for pursuing college and career goals. This is accomplished by clarifying clear guidelines for the use of alternate academic assessments, provides greater access to the standard academic curriculum for all students, and provides additional data transparency on the use of assessments. Major portions of this bill were incorporated into Title IA of the Every Student Succeeds Act, S. 1177which became Public Law 114-95 on December 10, 2015. Continuum of Learning Act S 643.This legislation updates ESEA to strengthen connections between existing early learning programs and elementary grades. This bill helps educators from Head Start, child care, other early childhood education programs, and elementary schools work together so young children have successful continuity of learning and development that sets a strong foundation throughout the K-12 school years and beyond. Major portions of this bill were incorporated into Sections 4624 and 9212 of the Every Student Succeeds Act, S. 1177, which became Public Law 114-95 on December 10, 2015. Computer Science Education and Jobs Act S 671. Adds computer science as a core academic subject within the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and adds supports for teachers who specialize in this subject area. These key provisions, included in the ESSA ESEA reauthorization as part of a definition of well rounded education, will provide support and clarity to states and school districts to expand this discipline, ultimately helping to keep the nation competitive in the global high-tech market. Major portions of this bill were incorporated into Title IIA, Section 4107, and Title VIII of the Every Student Succeeds Act, S. 1177, which became Public Law 114-95 on December 10, 2015. Clean Vehicles Corridor Act - S 1581.The principles and goals of the Clean Vehicles Corridor Act were included in section 1413 of HR 22, the DRIVE Act. Under this section, the Secretary of Transportation would designate transportation corridors to encourage fueling infrastructure for natural gas, electric, hydrogen and propane vehicles. HR 22, the DRIVE Act, the surface transportation reauthorization bill, which was signed into Public Law 114-94 on December 4, 2015. Casey Lead Democrat The Protecting Our Infants Act (w/ Senator McConnell) S 799.The Protecting Our Infants Act, which was signed into Public Law 114-91on November 25, 2015. This bill addresses the rise of prenatal opioid abuse and infants suffering from opioid withdrawal. The bill directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct a departmental review to identify gaps in research and any duplication, overlap or gaps in prevention and treatment programs related to prenatal opioid abuse and infants born with opioid withdrawal. It also directs the Department of Health and Human Services to work with stakeholders to develop recommendations both for preventing prenatal opioid abuse, and for treating infants born dependent on opioids. Finally, this measure encourages the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to work with states and help improve their public health response to this epidemic. Small Business Fairness Act (w/ Senator Enzi) S 958. This bill was included in section 867 of S. 1356, the Fiscal Year 2016 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed into Public Law 114-92 on 11/25/2015. This bill allows federal agencies to enter into contracts with small businesses that are service disabled veteran owned, economically disadvantaged, women-owned or a qualified HUBZone small business, even if they are part of a teaming agreement. Current law does not allow these designated small businesses to be part of a teaming agreement and also claim a socioeconomic designation. Support for Bridges Act/FAST Act (w/ Senator Blunt) S 1370. The goals of the Support for Bridges Act were included in The FAST Act. The Fast Act continues to provide $73,796,694 annually for off-system bridges in Pennsylvania which adds up to $369 million over 5 years. The bill makes an additional $4.9 billion (FY 16-20 total) available for highway bridges nationwide that lost predictable funding under MAP-21. Incorporated into Section 1106 of the FAST Act, H.R. 22, which became Public Law 114-94 on December 4, 2015. Small Business Tax Certainty and Growth Act of 2015 (w/ Senator Collins) - S.1141.Legislation includes 15-year recovery period for qualified leasehold improvement property, qualified restaurant property, and qualified retail improvement property (Depreciation Fairness Act S.394). Provisions extending bonus depreciation, and a provision making permanent section 179 expensing ($500,000 expensing with $2,000,000 phase out) indexed for inflation. Major portions of this bill were incorporated into Sections 123, 124, and 143 of the PATH Act, H.R. 2029, which became public law on December 18, 2015. 529 Enhancement Act (w/ Senator Grassley) S 335.The provision expands the definition of qualified higher education expenses for which 529 accounts are eligible to include computer equipment and technology, modifies 529 account rules to treat any distribution from a 529 account as coming only from that account. It also treats a refund of tuition paid with amounts distributed from a 529 account as a qualified expense if such amounts are re-contributed to a 529 account within 60 days. This legislation was incorporated into Section 302 of the PATH Act, H.R. 2029, which became public law on December 18, 2015. Patient Access and Medicare Protection Act (w/ Senator Portman) S. 2425 This bill does three key things. It implements a one year delay of the CMS proposal to apply competitive bid pricing to complex rehab accessories. It freezes the current payment rates for certain radiation therapy services for 2017 and 2018. This provision would ensure that cancer patients have the option to receive care in their preferred setting. It gives CMS the ability to process physician and hospital applications for a hardship exemption from complying electronic health record meaningful use requirements more efficiently. An increase in the submission of hardship applications from requirements in effect for 2015 is expected for reasons beyond provider control. This bill was passed in the Senate and the House on December 18, 2015 and became public law on December 28, 2015 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2567,Sen. Cruz Tours Tornado Wreckage in Rowlett,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today joined U.S. Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-Texas), Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, State Sen. Bob Hall (R-Canton), State Rep. Cindy Burkett (R-Sunnyvale), Rowlett Mayor Todd Gottel, and Rockwall County Judge David Sweet to tour the areas ravaged by tornadoes last Saturday. After witnessing the wreckage, Sen. Cruz said, It is heartbreaking to see these homes that have been utterly destroyed, and yet, it is miraculous that in the face of all of this devastation, there was not more loss of life. Weve seen homes that have been reduced to piles of rubble, and yet miraculously, the families that were there survived. That is something for which we are all thankful. It is also remarkable seeing how Texans respond in the face of tragedy. Over and over again, when faced with natural disasters, Texans come together. We had the opportunity to visit with volunteers from neighboring areas that have come together to help clean up the wreckage, to help patch up the roofs, to help people put together their lives. That sense of community, that sense of love, that sense of togetherness is one of the things that really defines Texas. I commend the mayor, the city officials, the county officials, and the local and state governments for stepping up and helping their citizens rebuild their lives. The cleanup operation is incredible. And over and over again, as we visited with people, families who had lost their homes were simply saying, Thank God we survivedphysical possessions can be replaced. People are hurting. People are grieving. And we are coming together as one to pray for and stand with our friends and neighbors in the face of this natural disaster. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=c7c25813-0535-40ab-96c7-743b1852ccb8,"On Two-Year Anniversary of Casselton Derailment, Heitkamp Honors North Dakota First Responders",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,ND,Heidi Heitkamp,H001069,www.heitkamp.senate.gov,,,legacy,"CASSELTON, N.D. Two years after the derailment of a crude oil train near Casselton, U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp toured the Casselton Volunteer Ambulance Service today to thank volunteer first responders and underscore the need to provide federal support for volunteer ambulance services, fire departments, and other emergency responders. To make sure firefighters and ambulance workers have the training and equipment they need, Heitkamp fought to increase federal funding to support first responders in the year-end spending bill Congress passed earlier this month. Today she encouraged North Dakota fire departments and first responders to apply for the increased federal funding. Heitkamp also presented Ken Habiger, president of the Casselton Volunteer Ambulance Service, with an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol in recognition of Habigers commitment to the safety and wellbeing of his community. From local fire departments to volunteer ambulance services, we need to do everything we can to make sure our first responders are prepared and safe as they work to protect us, said Heitkamp. The derailment in Casselton two years ago was a blunt reminder that we have a duty to support first responders like Ken, who work hard every day to make their communities stronger and safer. Congress needs to do its part to give first responders knowledge and training to protect our communities. Thats what I pushed for in the spending bill, and what Im also trying to do with my RESPONSE Act. Community service is a way of life here in Casselton and throughout our state, and we need to do everything we can to protect and prepare those who answer that call to serve. The spending bill Congress passed provides $690 million for first responder grants for equipment and staffing in 2016, which is a $10 million increase from 2015. Eight North Dakota fire departments including Fargo, Buffalo, Cavalier, and Bismarck benefited from Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) funding totaling nearly $1 million in 2014. The AFG and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants that Heitkamp fought to include in the spending bill are available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Since the derailment near Casselton in December 2013, Heitkamp has focused on finding ways to provide first responders in North Dakota and throughout the country with tools, training, grants, and other resources to make sure theyre well equipped to do their jobs. In February, Heitkamp reintroduced her Railroad Emergency Services Preparedness, Operational Needs, and Safety Evaluation (RESPONSE) Act, aimed at prioritizing support for first responders to make sure they have tools and skills to protect communities when responding to hazmat incidents on the rails, like crude oil derailments. Heitkamp first introduced her RESPONSE Act in June 2014 to address concerns about first responders safety and preparedness that were raised following the Casselton derailment in December 2013. After specifically pressing a top FEMA official, Heitkamphelped secure $5 million in federal funding in 2014 to support a one-of-a-kind federal training facilityin Pueblo, Colorado that prepares first responders to handle to hazmat incidents on the rails. Nearly 90 North Dakota first responders participated in training at the Pueblo facility in 2014 and 2015. In March, Heitkamp brought U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Deputy Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to North Dakota, and led a discussion in Larimore with North Dakota volunteer firefighters and Mayorkas so that the second in command at DHS could hear volunteer first responders concerns about equipment, training, and resources. In North Dakota, 96 percent of firefighters are volunteers. Heitkamp also launched her Strong & Safe Communities Initiative following the derailment, bringing together North Dakota leaders to address the states emerging challenges from rail safety to human trafficking in the wake of the oil and gas boom. In October, more than 150 community leaders from across the state including fire and first response officials gathered in Fargo for her first Strong & Safe Communities Summit.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-reviews-december-legislative-accomplishments-north-dakota-priorities,"Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.30.15 Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities Senator Holds Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable in Bismarck with local officials and business leaders to outline key legislative accomplishments that he worked to advance throughout the year and that Congress included in legislation passed this month. Hoeven worked with his congressional colleagues to address North Dakota's priorities and meet the needs of the state's families, schools, businesses and farmers across a wide variety of areas, including energy, tax, education, transportation and regulatory policy. We secured important priorities for our state and nation, Hoeven said. We lifted the ban on crude oil exports, provided tax relief, restored local control over education standards and ensured stronger funding for long-term infrastructure projects. These accomplishments will provide considerable benefits for our businesses and our families by promoting greater economic growth and local autonomy. Senator Hoeven helped to successfully pass the following measures through Congress this December: Lifting the Ban on Crude Oil Exports Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy Committee, repeatedly called for the repeal of the outdated crude oil export ban and cosponsored bipartisan legislation earlier this year to do just that. Allowing crude oil exports will support domestic energy production, grow the nation's economy, provide good jobs for workers, reduce fuel costs for consumers and enhance the security of the U.S. and our allies. Tax Relief for Small Business and Farmers Approved tax relief totaling $680 billion over ten years. Included a permanent extension of Section 179 with the $500,000 limitation and a five-year extension of bonus deprecation, important provisions that provide small businesses certainty and flexibility in planning their long-term finances. Extended permanently the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for private investments made in affordable housing. The credits are used by the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency alongside state programs to ensure an adequate housing supply is available for the state's workers and their families. Provided relief from Obamacare's costly and burdensome mandates, including a two-year delay of the tax on businesses that pay their employees' health care plans and a two-year delay of the Medical Device Tax. Regulatory Relief for Farmers and Ranchers Blocked the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from reinstating the Waters of the U.S. Interpretive Rule, preserving the general agriculture exemption under the Clean Water Act for farmers and ranchers. Restoring Local Control over Education Passed the Every Student Succeeds Act, education authorization legislation that repeals No Child Left Behind, restores local control over education standards, replaces one-size-fits-all accountability requirements with state-designed systems and ends the Common Core mandate. Strengthened Impact Aid for schools affected by the loss of property taxes due to nearby military bases and other federal land. Included a provision based on legislation offered by Senators Hoeven and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to bolster Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Providing Flexibility in School Nutrition Requirements Approved Hoeven's school nutrition reform amendment, which gives flexibility to schools struggling to comply with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) whole-grain and sodium standards during the 2016-2017 school year. Allows schools to retain the original USDA whole-grain requirement of 50 percent, rather than requiring that 100 percent of all grains served be whole-grain rich. Prevents the Administration from requiring further reductions in sodium, which have already been brought down to the Target 1 level. Further reductions in sodium are not currently supported by scientific evidence and would be difficult for schools to achieve due to increased costs and limited available food products that children would actually eat. Passing a Five-Year Highway Bill Passed the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, a five-year highway bill that is fully paid for. Provides North Dakota with more than $1.3 billion, increases annual funding for the state by $23 million per year, up to $263 million, provides $76 million over five years for transit projects in the state and enables more than 100 projects in the state to move forward. Includes Hoeven's Driver Privacy Act, legislation that establishes in law that the owner of a vehicle is also the owner of any information collected by an Event Data Recorder (EDR). Restores the $3 billion that was cut from crop insurance earlier this year. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.isakson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/what-others-are-saying?ContentRecord_id=fa9c2418-4f72-4533-8665-c889edec6e3a,"Coastal Courier: Carter, Isakson look forward to new year in DC",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,GA,Johnny Isakson,I000055,www.isakson.senate.gov,,,legacy,"By Brent Zell It was a year of learning and experiencing a lot, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, R-Ga., said. In his first year as representative from the 1st Congressional District, the Pooler native got to experience Pope Francis address to Congress up close and went with a group of legislators to Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Each event, Carter said, was an honor. Then, there was dealing with a new schedule. In his days as a state legislator, Carter was used to 40-day sessions in Atlanta and getting to go home around the end of March or beginning of April. Being a U.S. congressman, however, is year-round and 24/7, he said. Even being back home, he said he was busy getting around and seeing people in a district that has 17 counties, including Liberty and Long. Its very time consuming, but its very, very exciting, Carter said. One of Carters major goals when going to Congress was to tackle the national debt, which was at nearly $19 trillion Dec. 24, according to TreasuryDirect.gov. This year, for the first time since 2009, Congress passed a budget, which cuts the debt by $5.5 trillion over the next10 years, Carter said. A budget that, granted, its not a balanced budget, but it does give us a roadmap to a balanced budget, he said. Also, Congress passed a highway bill that covers five years worth of spending, marking the first time in decades that a highway bill longer than two years was approved. That was key to helping relieve the debt, Carter said. That is because in order to economically grow out of debt, sound infrastructure has to be in place, which means transportation has be taken care of, he said. The federal bill will work in harmony with Georgias highway bill that was passed this year in Atlanta by making sure projects keep going, Carter added. The federal governments got to be a reliable partner to the states in order for the states to get projects underway and completed, he said. Other key legislation from this year included ensuring doctors will accept Medicare from seniors, entitlement reform for the first time in two decades, and the passage of an omnibus bill that included $21 million for the Savannah Harbor deepening. Also, the defense budget was increased, which he said was vital to the 1st District and its four military bases. For 2016 the House reconvenes on Tuesday Carter said the No. 1 item as far as hes concerned is national security. Carter, a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, said the top responsibility of the government is to protect its citizens from terrorist groups like the highly publicized Islamic State, also known by the acronym ISIS. Weve got to make sure this is done. Weve got to destroy this threat known as ISIS, Carter said. The congressman said the House has addressed some concerns connected with that. In November, the House passed legislation that puts a hold on allowing Syrian and Iraqi refugees into the country until they are deemed safe to enter, according to CNN.com. Also, earlier this month, the House passed an overhaul of the federal visa-waiver program, which would restrict anyone traveling to or from Iraq, Syria, Iran and the Sudan without a visa, also according to CNN.com. Both pieces of legislation are currently in the Senate. Other aspects for the House to consider in 2016 include having regular order on voting for appropriations basically, being able to focus on 12 appropriations bills instead of passing one omnibus package as was done this year. Also, with U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., recently installed as speaker, Carter said comprehensive tax reform one of Ryans main projects should get looked at in the coming year. Of course, with an even-numbered year looming, elections are imminent. Carter is used to that, as he has run for office 12 of the last 20 years, and has his re-election campaign underway. We always like to get out, he said. This is my home and has been my home my whole life, and I just love the 1st District. Senate On Monday his 71st birthday U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., said he got good news on his health. The senator, who announced earlier this year he had been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, had a checkup and got a 100 percent sign-off, no problems whatsoever, he said. That means a good start for the impending new year, one that will see Isakson run for re-election and a third term as senator. The 2015 legislative year, meanwhile, featured one of the biggest projects for Georgia that Isakson has seen in his public life: the Savannah Harbor deepening. The senator said getting President Barack Obama to include funds for that project in the recently passed budget secures its future. Thats huge for Georgia and huge for southeast Georgia, Isakson said. The past year also saw Isakson accomplish his legislation calling for significant compensation for the Americans held hostage in Iran from 1979-81. Three of the hostages were from Georgia. Compensation had been held up by the Algiers Accords, which forbade America from suing Iran for the money. Its long overdue, but well-deserved, Isakson said. That legislation was part of the budget bill passed earlier this month, which also included $665 billion in tax cuts in next five years. Isakson said he was pleased with the budget in terms of tax policy, stating that in terms of relief and incentives, its probably the biggest spending package he has been a part of. While the Senate did more this year than in the other six years of the Obama administration, Isakson said, there were some goals that fell short. Expansion of the Keystone Pipeline was vetoed by the president, as was a repeal of the Affordable Care Act. Isakson said the efforts will continue to repeal the ACA, also known as Obamacare, which Isakson said is imploding on its own with rate hikes and the closing of insurance cooperatives. One thing that also did not get repealed was the Waters of the United States rule, which says that the federal government has jurisdiction over pretty much any water on any property even a puddle left over because of a rainstorm, Isakson said. He said that rule hurts agriculture and construction, and its an issue that should be left up to local control. Also in terms of the environment, Isakson said that he is all for a clean environment and carbon reduction, but he felt the president overreached with new regulations for the coal industry, saying it has been bad for prosperity and the electrical grid, and would like to see that rolled back. Echoing Carter, Isakson cited national security as a major priority for 2016. The senator said he would like to see a stronger policy with regard to the Middle East in order to root out terrorists. The more committed we are to eradication of ISIL, the safer our children and grandchildren and our country will be, the senator said, referring to another acronym for Islamic State. Isakson said he would like to see a change in the direction of the National Labor Relations Board in the wake of its ruling that, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, established any company that reserves the right to influence employment conditions over workers hired by a contractor is a joint employer, even if it never exercises that right or only does so indirectly. Isakson said the ruling tries to suppress small businesses. With the election year coming up and already wild presidential campaigning on both sides Isakson said it promises to be one heck of a presidential race. Isakson already has his re-election bid in full swing, saying his campaign has raised $5 million in the last year and the campaign staff has been hired. A representative for U.S. Sen. David Purdue, R-Ga., did not respond to an interview request by the Coastal Courier before press time Tuesday.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.leahy.senate.gov/press/leahy-local-advocates-announce-expansion-of_charitable-deductions-of-food-donations,"Leahy, Local Advocates Announce Expansion of Charitable Deductions of Food Donations",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,VT,Patrick Leahy,L000174,www.leahy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.30.15 Leahy, Local Advocates Announce Expansion of Charitable Deductions of Food Donations BURLINGTON, Vt. (WEDNESDAY, Dec. 30, 2015) Joined by local advocates to end hunger and food insecurity, Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) Wednesday announced at the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf in Burlington that a provision incentivizing donations of surplus food to local food pantries was recently signed into law, helping efforts to cut back on food waste and supporting communities help those in need across the country. During this congress, Leahy successfully led a bipartisan effort to expand and make permanent tax deductions for businesses and farms for donated food to community food shelves this year. As much as 40 percent of food that is produced, grown and transported in the United States will never be used because some businesses find it too costly to donate. This amounts to an estimated 70 billion pounds of wasted food each year. Leahy said: The burden of hunger threatens the livelihood and wellbeing of communities across Vermont. Hunger leads to malnourishment, obesity, diabetes and academic and social difficulty among children, and we all know a hungry child cannot learn.Vermont is a leader in the fight against hunger, and I was proud support this common sense provision to cut down on food waste and redirect resources to those in need. The Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf serves over 12,000 Vermonters each year, and continues to see an increase in visitors seeking food assistance. Rob Meehan, Executive Director of the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf said, Many of the people we serve face difficult choices including skipping meals so their children will have enough to eat, choosing between food and medicine, food and housing, food and healthcare simply because they do not have enough money. We need more help from our federal government to feed vulnerable Vermonters and this is a valuable step in that direction. The provision, the House companion of Leahy's Senate legislation the Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Extension Act, was included within a broader tax extension package passed in the year-end spending bill. This provision builds on a proven tax incentive to encourage businesses and farms to donate surplus food to their local food banks. It also permanently extends the same tax incentives to donate food, now available to corporations, to small businesses, farmers, ranchers and restaurant owners many of whom have large amounts of fresh food to donate. According to the Vermont Foodbank, 153,000 Vermonters rely on meals provided through food shelters, meal sites, senior centers and after-school programs each year. Vermont Foodbank CEO John Sayles said, Many of our neighbors are working hard and still can't make ends meet. Federal assistance is the first line of defense against hunger, but it has been decreasing in the past several years. We appreciate Senator Leahy getting a win for hunger relief this year, and we'll work hard to leverage that win for hungry Vermonters and continue to push for more federal, state and private support to end hunger. Community members were also in attendance to lend support for this enhanced opportunity for public-private partnership. Former Co-Chair of the Chittenden County Hunger Council and City Market Director of Community Engagement Allison Weinhagen said, Vermont's food co-ops, farms and food retailers all value the partnership with our local food banks and pantries. This extension further supports the impactful work that is being done throughout the state. The statistics on food insecure families in our community have not significantly decreased over the past several years and leadership like Senator Leahy's at the federal level is an important step in making a positive difference in the lives of our neighbors. As the most senior member and former chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senator Leahy has helped to lead the fight in Congress against hunger and is a longtime supporter of federal nutrition programs. This year he successfully advocated for an increase in federal funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), a federal program which provides states with commodity food products to fill food shelves. Earlier this year, he also introduced the Farm to School Act of 2015 to bolster nutrition education in schools, while increasing economic benefits for our local farmers. Also in attendance were Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Secretary Deb Markowitz, Hunger Free Vermont, the Vermont Farm Bureau and members of the Chittenden County Hunger Council. # # # # # Press Contact David Carle: 202-224-3693 Press Contact Press Contact David Carle: 202-224-3693 Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c78c1e97-d1a5-4b86-9444-f1ebcce730e5,STATEMENT BY SASC CHAIRMAN JOHN McCAIN ON IRAN ROCKET LAUNCH NEAR U.S. AIRCRAFT CARRIER,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,AZ,John McCain,M000303,www.mccain.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today on Irans recent rocket launch near the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz: ""As the Obama Administration celebrates the Iran nuclear deal, Iran conducted a highly provocative launch of several rockets with little warning just 1500 yards from a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz. This alarming launch comes after Iran has conducted two advanced missile tests since October in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. Yet the Administration continues to turn a blind eye to Iranian saber rattling, continued state sponsorship of terrorism, and violations of its international commitments for fear Iran will walk away from the nuclear deal. ""The administration's desperate attempts to get sanctions relief before the elections in February based on an unfounded belief that it will promote what they perceive as a 'moderate' political strain in Iran is both nave and dangerous. A rush to sanctions relief threatens to embolden an increasingly aggressive Iranian regime that has no intention of normalizing relations with the West or of retreating from a malign policy intended to destabilize the Middle East. ""We need a to ensure that U.S. forces are postured to respond to Iranian aggression and finally adopt a comprehensive strategy to counter Iran's malign influence in the Middle East."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-himes-applaud-over-206000-in-pool-safety-grants-for-bridgeport-and-stamford,"MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL, HIMES APPLAUD OVER $206,000 IN POOL SAFETY GRANTS FOR BRIDGEPORT AND STAMFORD",2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL, HIMES APPLAUD OVER $206,000 IN POOL SAFETY GRANTS FOR BRIDGEPORT AND STAMFORD U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Grants Awarded to Combat Pool and Spa Drownings and Drain Entrapments Wednesday, December 30, 2015 HARTFORD- Today, U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), andU.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-4) applauded $206,225 in grants for the cities of Bridgeport and Stamford from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to provide assistance for education, training, and enforcement of pool safety requirements aimed at preventing pool and spa drownings and drain entrapments. The City of Bridgeport will be awarded $74,973 for the Bridgeport Water Safety Awareness Project to expand on current water safety education and compliance efforts, including regular inspections of all public pools by city inspectors and on-site enforcement personnel to ensure compliance with current rules and regulations. The Project will also include free-to-the public swimming instruction. The City of Stamford will be awarded $131,252 for Stamfords Pool Safety Program and will partner with the Stamford Family YMCA to segment their current learn- to- swim curriculum with the YMCA of the USAs Safety Around Water program, increase the amount of youth receiving water safety education, and expand training and education opportunities for staff and Certified Pool Operators. Drowning is the number one cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1 to 4 nationwide tragedies that we can and must do more to prevent, said Murphy, Blumenthal, and Himes. This critical federal funding will help ensure that the cities of Bridgeport and Stamford can expand on their current water safety initiatives to support more robust pool safety education and compliance, increase access to swimming instruction, and provide meaningful training opportunities for staff and pool operators. We applaud this wise investment that will keep our children and families safe while enjoying the recreational and health benefits of swimming. My husbandBrian and I are very proud that two cities in our home state of Connecticut -- Bridgeport and Stamford -- decided to pursue and secure federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety grants. Not a day goes by where we at The ZAC Foundation aren't working to achieve our mission of ensuring no other family suffers from a water-related tragedy. We applaud Senator Blumenthal, Senator Murphy and Representative Himes for their commitment to water safety and the pursuit of these grants, which will go a long way to advance water safetyeducation, training and inspections to more Connecticut pools, community centers and families. The ZAC Foundation stands ready to support and partner with these communities to advance this mission, said Karen Cohn, water safety advocate and co-founder of The ZAC Foundation. The ZAC Foundation was established in 2008 by Brian and Karen Cohn after the loss of their 6-year-old son Zachary Archer Cohn in a pool drain entrapment in their backyard swimming pool in Greenwich. Through education and advocacy, the Foundation is dedicated to preparing children and their families for a lifetime of swimming safety. The Pool Safety Grant program, a first-of its kind grant program aimed at preventing pool and spa drownings and drain entrapments, is authorized through the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, (VGB Act) that was signed into law December 2007.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-zeldin-calls-investigations-nsa-spying-members-congress,Congressman Zeldin Calls for Investigations into NSA Spying on Members of Congress Conversations with Israeli Leadership,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Patchogue, New York - Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, C NY 1), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Co-Chair of the House Republican Israel Caucus today called on Congress and the Department of Justice to investigate the NSAs spying on members of Congress conversations with top Israeli leadership. The House Intelligence Committee just announced today that it is opening a probe. Additionally, Congressman Zeldin called on the Obama Administration to disclose information related to its role in this questionable activity. If the latest reports are true, laws were broken and there must be accountability for all responsible, said Congressman Zeldin. First off, Israel is a trusted ally of the United States of America and should be respected as such. The NSAs spying of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and top level Israeli leadership harms our relationship with our greatest friend and ally in the Middle East. Furthermore, and especially concerning, the NSA should not have been recording the conversations between members of Congress and Israeli leadership. It appears that laws may have been broken. Congressman Zeldin met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as other top leaders in the Israeli government, during the negotiation and deliberation of the P5+1 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the Iran Nuclear Agreement. Israel is a beacon of freedom and democracy in a region of the world that is filled with darkness, continued Congressman Zeldin. Americas foreign policy should be one that strengthens our relationships with our allies and treats our enemies as our enemies. These new details about the NSAs spying does nothing to strengthen our relationship with Israel and other allies around the world. If only the Obama administration would channel a fraction of its bias against Israel towards more responsible policy towards Iran, America would be made more secure today and in the future. Congressman Zeldin concluded, Putting the spying of Israeli leadership aside for a moment, in what interpretation of national security can the President of the United States justify using National Security Agency assets to spy on members of Congress? Is this really for national security or is it for political gain? The Obama administration must disclose the entirety of its role in this questionable activity. The United States Department of Justice should appoint a Special Prosecutor and the United States Congress should investigate the Obama Administration and National Security Agency to pursue full clarity and accountability regarding this deeply troubling activity.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cohen.house.gov/press-release/cohen-cleveland-chicago-police-shootings-are-more-evidence-we-need-independent,"Cohen: Cleveland, Chicago Police Shootings Are More Evidence That We Need Independent Prosecutors",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,,,legacy,"[WASHINGTON, DC] Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN), the Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Constitution and Civil Justice, today said that recent police shootings in Cleveland and Chicago are further evidence that Congress needs to push states to require independent prosecutors by passing H.R. 2302, the Police Training and Independent Review Act a bill recently endorsed by the Chicago Tribune, following investigative coverage on ABC 7 Chicago (WLS-TV). People arent marching in the streets because they think the system is fair, said Congressman Cohen. We need reform. Asking local prosecutors to investigate the same local police with whom they work so closely is a conflict of interest. Even if they handle such investigations appropriately, there will continue to be a perception of bias. These kind of cases need independent prosecutors, and thats why we are seeing growing support for our bill. Earlier this year, Congressman Cohen along with Congressman Lacy Clay (D-MO)(whose district includes Ferguson, MO) introduced H.R. 2302, the Police Training and Independent Review Act. The bill would withhold full federal funding for law enforcement if independent prosecutors are not used for cases in which police use of deadly force results in death or injury. The bill would also withhold full federal funding if police are not trained on a variety of issues including mental health. The bill currently had 53 cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives. Earlier this year, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo began requiring the use of an independent prosecutor for police killings. See NY Times: Cuomo to Appoint Special Prosecutor for Killings by Police H.R. 2302 addresses a key recommendation included in President Obamas Taskforce on 21st Century Policings final report: (See Action Item 2.2.3in https://www.cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/taskforce/TaskForce_FinalReport.pdf -- on p. 21 of the final report): 2.2.3 Action Item: The task force encourages policies that mandate the use of external and independent prosecutors in cases of police use of force resulting in death, officer-involved shootings resulting in injury or death, or in-custody deaths. Strong systems and policies that encourage use of an independent prosecutor for reviewing police uses of force and for prosecution in cases of inappropriate deadly force and in-custody death will demonstrate the transparency to the public that can lead to mutual trust between community and law enforcement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://duncan.house.gov/wivks-gunner-honored-work-vets,WIVK's Gunner Honored for Work with Vets,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TN,John Duncan,D000533,duncan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Mr. Speaker: I wish today to honor a man that many in my District know by only one name. Ted Ousleyor simply Gunner as he is known to his many fansis one of the most popular people in my District and a longtime personality with WIVK radio in Knoxville, Tennessee. Each weekday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Your Cowboy Pal Gunner entertains listeners with his unique brand of East Tennessee charm, humor, and grace. He loves his job, and you can tell when listening to his show. He once said that he was living his dream by being on the air with WIVK. In 2003 and 2004, Gunner was voted the Best DJ by Metro Pulse readers and was a finalist for the Marconi Air Personality of the Year. But Gunner is not just known for his entertainment. He is also a tireless champion of Veterans. Following the September 11th terror attacks in 2001, Gunner started a segment on his show called Voices from the Front, where he would connect families over the phone with their loved ones serving in the wars. It was hugely popular and emotional for him and his listeners. In 2004, he traveled to Iraq, and upon his return led an effort to bring to the United States for treatment an 8-year-old suffering from a severe form of Spina Bifida. In 2009, Gunner received the first annual Civilian Warrior Award for his work with the 844th Engineer Battalion. East Tennessee is one of the most patriotic places in this Country. Each year, Gunner helps lead the Veterans Day parade in Knoxville, which is attended by many thousands of people. In addition to his service to Veterans, Gunner finds the time to run two East Tennessee farms and serve on the Board of Directors of the East Tennessee Alzheimers Association. Mister Speaker, Ted Gunner Ousley embodies the Volunteer spirit of East Tennessee. His humility and dedication to those who serve will forever hold a place in our hearts, and I thank him for his dedication to this Country and wish him success as he continues to entertain us each day. I also call his work with Veterans to the attention of my Colleagues and other readers of the Record in hopes that he will be an inspiration to many more.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://gohmert.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398291,Gohmert Reflects on 2015 Battles in the U.S. House of Representatives,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Louie Gohmert,G000552,gohmert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Sen. Bill Ratliff once told me the old adage, Its amazing what you can get done if you dont care who gets the credit. He was so right. Knowing that I had evoked Speaker Boehners wrath, I would tell him I did not care whose name was on a bill that needed to come to the floor for a vote and I have gotten a number of bills passed and others should pass this next year. Since my first term in office, I have been pushing to end the automatic increase in every federal department and agency. That would make it a Zero Baseline Budget. Four years ago, Boehner agreed to bring it to the floor under the name of the stellar young House member who managed it in committee. It passed the House, but the Senate did not take it up. About two years later, it was again passed out of the House as the Woodall-Gohmert bill, though I told Paul Ryan not to put my name on it because it might prevent it coming to the floor for a vote. Paul said, Ive already told Boehner everybody knows you are the one who has been pushing this since youve been here, so he said ok. The Senate did not take it up, but I am told in this Congress, we should pass it this year and demand the Senate vote on it. Since Speaker Ryan strongly supports it, it may get a vote in the Senate. THE KARI'S LAW ACT OF 2015 We have worked with various aspects of the lodging industry, phone system providers, and concerned individuals including Hank Hunt, to draft Karis Law that will require phone systems be provided with the default allowing anyone dialing 911 to reach emergency help without dialing any prefix. We expect to get it passed this year. OBAMACARE ORIGINATION CLAUSE Previously, I drafted a bill that would state that it is the sense of the House that the ObamaCare bill did not originate in the House as the Constitution requires for bills that raise revenue or have taxes in them. There are attorneys who have filed suit and gotten different judgments in different Circuit Courts, so there is a good chance that the Supreme Court will take it up. If we pass that resolution, it will be evidence of which an appellate court can take judicial notice and could be persuasive. After drafting it, I talked the Chairman of the Constitution subcommittee into being the lead sponsor and he has done a great job. Continue to lead an effort, as personally requested by former U.S. Attorney General Ed Meese, to reform thecriminal code so that no one can be thrown in jail or prison for an innocuous violation of a rule or regulation written by unelectedbureaucrats that Congress has not specifically approved as a criminal violation. That outrage has repeatedly occurred and needs to be stopped. Have led efforts for almost five years to ensure the military is always paid in the event of a government shutdown; got a temporary bill passed but continue to push for making the payments for our military automatic as Social Security payments are. There should be no doubt that I led the effort beginning three years ago to get a new Speaker which finally paid off in October of this year. Continue to push to get additional legislation in each Congress to deal with Invasive Species such as Giant Salvinia that is destroying some of our East Texas lakes. We have had some success, but need to provide more help to the states on such a critical national issue. Continue to be the leading proponent demanding that the Senate take up the Iran deal as the treaty it actually is. It modifies existing treaties which can only be done by another treaty that is ratified with a two-thirds vote in the Senate. The Corker bill cannot change that Constitutional requirement for a treaty. We welcome legal immigrants, but must enforce our border as a matter of national security. In the last Congress, I stopped the House bill that Boehner had secretly drafted the last week of July and had acquired enough Republican pledges to pass it, even without anyone reading it. After it was finally filed Tuesday before the vote on Thursday, I read it through the night on Tuesday to Wednesday morning, realized it was a de facto amnesty bill, so I got copies of all my notes to leading allies in the House and to national talk show hosts. By Thursday morning the Speaker had lost so many of his pledges, he had to pull the bill from consideration. That Thursday night I spent hours with about fifteen other members of Congress changing the bill until we changed it from an amnesty bill to a decent border security bill that we passed late that Friday night with massive Republican support. STANDING UP AGAINST BLANKET AMNESTY Continue to be a leader in fighting against granting blanket amnesty to those illegally in the United States. President Obama's unlawful executive action on immigration was frankly outrageous and an offense to the U.S. Constitution. Not only did the administrations unlawful memos trample on the U.S. Constitution, they caused many, who applied to come to the United States legally, to go to the back of the processing line behind those who were breaking the law. This nation was built on the Rule of Law; it is my promise to continue to be a vocal opponent of executive amnesty.There is no doubt that immigration has fortified this country; however, it should be done legally. The original Authorization of Use of Military Force passed seven days after 9-11-2001 gave massive powers to the President allowing him to lock up American citizens without right of Habeas Corpus. In the last Congress, I led a fight to get that corrected in the National Defense Authorization Act. As the Chairman of the Armed Services Committee was negotiating acceptable language with the Senate, he had me come to his conference room privately to work on language acceptable to conservatives and most libertarians each time the Senate sent back a new proposal. I would consult with Constitutional Law professors by phone. We finally worked out a satisfactory solution that protected everyone legally in the U.S., though CAIR and the ACLU wanted everyone illegally here with the same protections that the Immigration laws do not afford them. Continue to push legislation that will punish sanctuary cities. Was an extremely vocal critic of the TPA and TPP as they gave far too much power to the President to negotiate away our sovereign rights. Proposed we end the monopoly on scoring potential bills by the Congressional Budget Office and the Joint Tax Committee, by making it competitive and scoring the scorers. Dr. Arthur Laffer, Ronald Reagans economic advisor called me recently to say he had gotten a private grant to come up with a system like I suggested and would be announcing his proposal very soon. PROTECTING & ARMING MILITARY Having been a leader in pushing bills for a number of years that would allow our military members to carry weapons at their U.S. duty station under certain situations, we finally got language included in the NDAA this year that will allow such. PROTECTING STATES NATURAL RESOURCES RIGHTS Have also led efforts to pass bills that will allow states to govern certain activity including oil and gas production if the state has an agency that governs it. In addition to this, top conservative and policy groups have ranked my strong voting record in the highest percentiles: Heritage (93%), FreedomWorks (100%), NumbersUSA (96%). It is my commitment to you, as your humble representative from the First Congressional District of Texas, to stand firmly on the principles that formed this nation and continue to push forward legislation that empower we the people. We must keep fighting the good fight for the generations that will follow us. It is my hope and prayer that 2016 will truly be a year of restoration for this country. Many blessings to you and your family, Louie",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398276,Watch Congressman Huizenga's Facebook Town Hall,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MI,Bill Huizenga,H001058,huizenga.house.gov,,,legacy,"Watch Congressman Huizenga's Facebook Town Hall f t # e Washington, December 29, 2015 On Monday afternoon, Congressman Huizenga held his first-ever live video town hall on Facebook. During the town hall, Rep. Huizenga took questions from West Michigan residents on the threats posed by ISIS,how Congress is addressing refugees from war torn regions in the Middle East,the negative impact of Dodd-Frank on West Michigan community banks, his legislation to make the Federal Reserve more accountable and transparent to the American people, the legislative plan to defund Planned Parenthood and how Congress is preparing to put the first major ObamaCare repeal legislation on President Obama's desk in January. You can watchthe entire town hall event below: Earlier today, I held a live town hall on Facebook where I took questions from West Michigan Residents on immigration, ObamaCare, ISIS, Dodd-Frank, fed reform, Planned Parenthood and more. If you couldn't join the town hall this afternoon, the full video is below. Posted by Rep. Bill Huizenga on Monday, December 28, 2015 Be sure to ""like"" Rep. Huizenga on Facebookto ensure you receivea notification for the Congressman's next ""FacebookLive"" Event. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398664,Luetkemeyer Offers Resources for Mo. Residents Due to Widespread Flooding,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MO,Blaine Luetkemeyer,L000569,luetkemeyer.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) issued the following release in response to the high level of rainfall that has occurred over the last few days in areas of the 3rd District. share: f t U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) issued the following release in response to the high level of rainfall that has occurred over the last few days in areas of the 3rd District. With Missouri under a state of emergency due to the heavy rain and flooding throughout much of the state, I wanted to ensure that individuals have the access to information they may need. I have listed website links to various agencies or departments so individuals can find any necessary information they are looking for in dealing with the aftermath of the heavy rainfall. There are now clearer days in the forecast but roads are still flooded over so please stay safe on the roads over the next few days. Resources General Flood Readiness Information: http://www.ready.gov/floods Road Closures from MoDot: http://traveler.modot.org/map/ Missouri State Emergency Management: http://sema.dps.mo.gov/plan_and_prepare/flooding.php St. Louis Corps of Army Engineers (Mississippi River): http://www.mvs.usace.army.mil/ National Weather Service (Missouri Basin River Forecast Center): http://www.weather.gov/mbrfc/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-calls-for-medical-care-and-immediate-release-of-vladimir,Diaz-Balart Calls for Medical Care and Immediate Release of Vladimir Morera Bacallao,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) released the following statement regarding incarcerated Cuban pro-democracy activist Vladimir Morera Bacallao. ""Vladimir Morera Bacallao is in intensive care after being transferred from his prison cell where he has been on hunger strike since October 9, 2015. Reports indicate that he is gravely ill. ""Morera Bacallao was released as part of the Obama-Castro deal announced on December 17, 2014. However, he was re-arrested in April 2015 for placing a sign outside his home during the Castro regime's sham 'elections' that said, 'I vote for my freedom and not in an election where I cannot choose my president.' Last month, the Castro regime gave Morera Bacallao a new four-year prison sentence for the 'crime' of expressing his political opinion. ""During the Obama administration, activists Orlando Zapata Tamayo and Wilman Villar Mendoza died under uncannily similar circumstances. Activists Laura Pollan and Oswaldo Paya also perished at the hands of Castros' thugs during this administration. ""Morera Bacallao has risked everything for the basic right to have a voice in his government. His unjustifiable imprisonment and mistreatment are further indictments of the brutal malevolence of the Castro regime, and the utter failure of Obama's appeasement of Cuba's dictators. I urge human rights organizations and the Obama administration to bring attention to the urgent case of Vladimir Morera Bacallao, and to demand that he receive immediate medical attention. We must not remain silent while another courageous activist hovers on the brink of death."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/after-getting-capitol-opened-for-sledding-norton-pushes-for-more-public,"After Getting Capitol Opened for Sledding, Norton Pushes for More Public Access with Bill to Allow Commercial Filming on Capitol Grounds When Congress is Out of Session",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,DC,Eleanor Norton,N000147,norton.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) today said that when Congress returns from recess she will introduce a bill to permit commercial filming and photography on the U.S. Capitol Grounds beyond Union Square, the single area where it is currently permitted when both chambers of Congress are out of session. The expanded filming would be subject to the same terms and conditions as filming in Union Square (the area just below the west side of the Capitol, near the Botanic Gardens), which Norton got codified in the fiscal year 2014 omnibus appropriations bill. Filming could be permitted when Congress is not in session and subject to the usual police and security restrictions. Norton has consistently sought expanded public access to public space, particularly around the Capitol, and this month got language included in the omnibus bill for non-enforcement of a law that prohibits sledding on Capitol Grounds. This Norton bill would allow commercial film and photography crews to apply for permits for exterior shots of the Capitol and its grounds. Norton said permitting commercial filming would meet a hunger in the industry for authentic shots of our Capitol can also provide a boost to the Districts economy. Hollywood and other commercial filmmakers should not have to go to fake capitols for movies and films about the capital of the United States, Norton said. The current policy permitting filming near the Botanic Gardens shows that the Capitol police can handle filmmaking on the grounds when Congress is not in session. However, filming from that vantage point shows the least familiar view of the Capitol. At a time when the reputation of Congress is particularly low, filming the Capitol could bolster the image Congress prefers of a building that represents American democracy. It is neither business-friendly nor true to the nations democratic traditions to arbitrarily exclude filming of the Capitol. Encouraging commercial photography and filming at the Capitol would help spread the story of our national legislature around the world. The current policy may be unconstitutional. No policy or security reason exists to justify current limits on commercial filming and photography of the Capitol complex to only one location, Union Square, particularly considering that permits are necessary.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-secures-over-600000-6th-district-constituents-year,"Pallone Secures Over $600,000 for 6th District Constituents this Year",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"LONG BRANCH, NJ Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that he helped secure $636,002 in 2015 for constituents seeking assistance through his district office. His work on behalf of constituents includes help with Veterans Affairs claims, tax return issues with the Internal Revenue Service, Sandyrelated FEMA grants and claims, SBA loans, Social Security payments, and more. Over the past year, Congressman Pallones constituent outreach representatives have made it possible for constituents to cut through red tape in order to receive money that is rightfully owed to them. I want all of my constituents know that were here to help, said Congressman Pallone. I am grateful so many residents of the 6th District turned to us for assistance this year. Whether my constituents need assistance navigating the federal bureaucracy or are concerned about a federal policy, I encourage them to stay in touch and hope that they continue to use my office as a resource. The funds secured by Congressman Pallone and his staff are part of a long list of constituent services that his district offices offer. For example, constituents who have issues with their Social Security benefits, federal pensions, Medicare eligibility, and U.S. citizenship are eligible for help. Additionally, Pallone and his staff frequently assist veterans obtain back pay, GI Bill benefits, VA disability claims, as well as assistance to widows who are eligible to receive pensions. Staff can also be helpful in locating low-income housing options, energy assistance and other benefits or resources that may be helpful to residents of the 6th District. For help on any of these services or other issues, constituents should not hesitate to contact either of Congressman Pallones district offices: New Brunswick Office -67/69 Church Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, Phone: (732) 249-8892 Long Branch Office -504 Broadway, Long Branch, NJ 07740, Phone: (732) 571-1140",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/weekly-column?ContentRecord_id=EF6076AA-619D-437B-A685-D428CF7610B6,Giving thanks for our freedoms as we enter a New Year,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,OH,Jim Renacci,R000586,renacci.house.gov,,,legacy,"As we begin the New Year and reflect on 2015, let us pause and give thanks for the rights and freedoms we enjoy in this country. In America, we have the ability to turn dreams into realities through hard work and innovation. We owe these privileges to the men and women who served, and are currently serving, to protect the freedoms that are the bedrock of our country. As a member of Congress, it is my duty to ensure that those who choose to dedicate their lives defending our freedoms receive the support they deserve. For these reasons, I was proud to support the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) earlier this year. TheNDAA fully funds the resources needed for our troops, but also cuts some unnecessary spending. One of the most important actions Congress can take is to pass a reform-centered NDAA to ensure our service members have the tools necessary to confront todays challenges and keep Americans safe. The NDAA also means jobs right here in the 16thDistrict of Ohio. For instance, one small employee-owned business will continue to manufacture radio towers vital for our ally Israels Iron Dome missile defense system. In addition to the NDAA, the Omnibus which was recently signed into law also includes provisions to strengthen our national defense, and restore funding forour men and women in uniform. One provision included will provide the necessary funding forthe construction and repair of facilities at both active and reserve military installations. Another provision will raise the pay for military personnel, and capital for the Department of Homeland Security. Finally, the House-passed bill to strengthen our Visa Waiver Program and tighten the security requirements under the program is also included in the Omnibus. Specifically, this legislation would deny Visa Waiver Program status to individuals who have recently travelled to terrorist hotspots. It is important to pause and show our gratitude for those who keep us safe and provide us the freedoms to pursue new opportunities in 2016. Thank you to our retired and current service men and women, and I wish you and your loved ones a happy new year. If you need any additional information, please visit my website atrenacci.house.govor call my Washington office:202-225-3876, Wadsworth office:330-334-0040, or Parma office:440-882-6779. If you have a concern about your VA claim, please contact my Wadsworth office and I will inquire about your claim. I also encourage you to subscribe to myFacebook,Twitter,Instagram, andYouTubepages to get updates on my work in Washington and the 16th District.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://tipton.house.gov/press-release/3rd-district-students-receive-us-service-academy-nominations,3rd District Students Receive U.S. Service Academy Nominations,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,CO,Scott Tipton,T000470,tipton.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONCongressman Scott Tipton (CO-03) announced that 24 students from Colorados 3rd Congressional District have received a nomination from his office to attend U.S. Service Academies in 2016. The students were selected based on meeting or exceeding the stringent requirements of the respective academy and of Tiptons office, which uses a merit-based, competitive nomination process. Students who applied were required to submit an essay, test scores, an application, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and complete a panel interview in order to be considered. It takes hard work, intelligence and determination to meet the high entrance standards of our nations Service Academies, traits that are critical for success as a leader in the Armed Forces. To earn a nomination, these students have met or exceeded these high standards and demonstrated a true passion to serve our country, said Tipton. On behalf of the 3rd Congressional District I commend these exceptional students for their selflessness and dedication, and wish them well in what will no doubt be a very bright future. Tipton called to personally notify each student of the nomination(s) last week. Congressman Tiptons Academy Nominations for Colorados 3rd Congressional District: U.S. Air Force Academy *Alexandre Basagoita, Monte Vista, Sargent HS, currently attending Adams State University Kobi Betts, Pueblo, Pueblo Central HS *Kyle Cox, Montrose, Montrose HS Jonathan Hints, Pueblo, Pueblo West HS, graduated 2012, currently active duty AF Lydia Knutson, Cedaredge, Cedaredge HS Jessica Tuttle, Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Springs HS Natasha Weimer, Grand Junction, currently attending Northwestern Prep School Noah Smith, Pueblo, Pueblo South HS *Kamren McKee, Fruita, Fruita Monument HS Mary Hood, Alamosa, Sargent HS U.S. Naval Academy *Connor Frasier, Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Springs HS Samuel Samberson, Pueblo West, Pueblo West HS Jacob Crouch, Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Springs HS Nolan Butcher, Grand Junction, Hill School (boarding school in Pennsylvania) *Kyle Cox, Montrose, Montrose HS Michael Tucker, Silt, Coal Ridge HS *Aileen Ojeda, Pueblo, Centennial HS Joshua Hardin, Grand Junction, Hotchkiss HS Grad 2013, currently attending Colorado Mesa University Morgan Wright, Silverton, Ouray HS *Frankie Turner, Durango, Bayfield HS West Point *Alexandre Basagoita, Monte Vista, Sargent HS, currently attending Adams State University Allyson Ludewig, Gypsum, Eagle Valley HS *Aileen Ojeda, Pueblo, Centennial HS Carter Ortiz, Pueblo, Pueblo West HS *Kamren McKee, Fruita, Fruita Monument HS *Connor Frasier, Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Springs HS *Frankie Turner, Durango, Bayfield HS Silas Luke Stobbe, Grand Junction, Mesa Valley Community School U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Nathaniel Todd, Lewis, Life Independent School Kaleb Todd, Lewis, Life Independent School *Received nominations to multiple Service Academies Students who are residents of Colorados 3rd Congressional District and are considering applying to a U.S. Service Academy can find more information on the nomination process at: https://tipton.house.gov/serving-you/military-academy-nominations Nominations from previous years can be found here: 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398562,Obama signs into law Uptons bill banning microbeads,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,MI,Fred Upton,U000031,upton.house.gov,,,legacy,"President Barack Obama signed into law Monday a bill championed by southwest Michigan Congressman Fred Upton to phase out the production and sale of tiny bits of plastic called microbeads. The Senate on Dec. 18 passed the bill by voice vote, and the House passed it earlier this month. The legislation was co-sponsored by Reps. Fred Upton, the St. Joseph Republican who heads the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Frank Pallone, D-New Jersey. Its a banner day for Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes -- we now have a bipartisan law on the books to cleanse dirty microbeads from all our nations waters, Upton said in a Monday statement. Microbeads may be tiny plastic, but they are wreaking big time havoc in our waters. We came together, Republicans and Democrats, and got the job done. The Microbead-Free Waters Act would ban the manufacture of microbeads starting in July 2017, followed by a ban on manufacturing over-the-counter drugs and on sales of cosmetics with microbeads to start in July 2018. A ban on sales of over-the-counter drugs containing microbeads would begin July 2019. The synthetic particles have been found in relatively high concentrations in the Great Lakes where they absorb pollutants, raising concern over their consumption by fish and other wildlife that could eventually enter the food chain. The little pieces of plastic are often used as abrasive exfoliants in toothpastes and facial cleansers, ending up in waterways after they rinse down the drain and flow through the filtration systems at wastewater treatment plants. At least nine states and numerous local jurisdictions already have bans on microbeads in personal-care products, creating a patchwork of differing laws on the synthetic particles. Uptons bill on microbeads was one of several matters that Michigans Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress agreed they would push in a common agenda to maximize Michigans clout on Capitol Hill a development that political experts declared was significant among the states. In May, Democratic Sens. Stabenow of Lansing and Gary Peters of Bloomfield Township introduced companion legislation to Uptons bill to ban the sale of synthetic plastic microbeads used in facial cleansers. At a time when gaining widespread bipartisan consensus is anything but easy, I am especially glad my bill to cut down on unnecessary pollution and protect our waterways is finally law, said Pallone, the ranking member of the Energy and Commerce Committee and the bills co-sponsor. Dan Wyant, director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, has called the rate of microplastic particles detected in Lakes Erie, Huron and Superior quite concerning at 43,000 per square kilometer because of their potential to enter the food stream. The rate was nearly 10 times higher in samples collected in Lake Erie downstream of two major Ohio cities, Wyant added. Microbeads is a clear issue. It's a clear threat. And there's a clear, simple answer, and we support the phaseout of microbeads and a federal approach, he said in testimony before Upton's committee. Via the Detroit News.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=NewsReleases&ContentRecord_id=fe0df18f-629b-4ac5-9a86-f07f6cc5c5d1,"Cornyn Op-Ed: In 2015, New Senate Majority Delivered For The Nation",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 517 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington, DC 20510 Main: 202-224-2934 Get Directions Southeast Texas: 5300 Memorial Drive Suite 980 Houston, TX 77007 Main: 713-572-3337 Fax: 713-572-3777 Get Directions South Texas: 222 East Van Buren Suite 404 Harlingen, TX 78550 Main: 956-423-0162 Fax: 956-423-0193 Get Directions West Texas: Wells Fargo Center 1500 Broadway, Suite 1230 Lubbock, TX 79401 Main: 806-472-7533 Fax: 806-472-7536 Get Directions South Central Texas: 600 Navarro Suite 210 San Antonio, TX 78205 Main: 210-224-7485 Fax: 210-224-8569 Get Directions Central Texas: Chase Tower 221 West Sixth Street Suite 1530 Austin, TX 78701 Main: 512-469-6034 Fax: 512-469-6020 Get Directions East Texas: Regions Bank Building 100 E. Ferguson Street, Suite 1004 Tyler, TX 75702 Main: 903-593-0902 Fax: 903-593-0920 Get Directions North Texas: 5001 Spring Valley Road Suite 1125 E Dallas, TX 75244 Main: 972-239-1310 Fax: 972-239-2110 Get Directions",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ContentRecord_id=c1fa06b7-4190-45e9-bdd6-527bf391b571,"Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.29.15 Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights Bill Supports General Aviation, Allows More Qualified Pilots to Continue Flying WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Senate has passed the Pilots Bill of Rights II, a measure he cosponsored that updates the Federal Aviation Administrations (FAA) medical certification for most general aviation pilots, providing a safe and transparent process to help ensure more healthy, qualified and trained pilots can fly. The bill expands the 3rd class medical exemption for recreational pilots flying light sport aircraft and broadens the protections provided in the original Pilots Bill of Rights signed into law in 2012, which Hoeven also cosponsored. General aviation is an important part of North Dakotas transportation infrastructure and economy, providing vital services across industries, Hoeven said. The FAAs current medical standards are outdated, costly to comply with, prevent healthy and skilled pilots from flying and do little to ensure the safe operation of general aviation aircraft. Our bill updates the FAAs medical exemption process to reflect real-world health care needs and risks, which will better serve our pilots, empower them to seek treatment for their medical conditions and enhance public safety. The Pilots Bill of Rights II: Expands the existing FAA exemption for a 3rd class medical certificate to include general aviation aircraft up to 6,000 pounds and raises altitude up to 18,000 feet. Maintains safe aircraft operations by requiring an individual to take an online medical education course, complete the FAA medical evaluation process one time and maintain ongoing medical care, while also providing a checklist to guide discussion between pilots and their physicians during health examinations and maintaining the special issuance process for pilots diagnosed with mental health disorders, neurological disorders or cardiovascular conditions. Expands the original Pilots Bill of Rights by explicitly stating that pilots facing investigation by the FAA may appeal to a district court and clarifies who bears the burden of proof. Expedites updates to the FAAs Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) program to ensure pilots receive and can access important flight safety information in a timely and relevant manner. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://abraham.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/traffic-restricted-levee-abraham-gets-view-air,Traffic restricted on levee; Abraham gets view from air,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,LA,Ralph Abraham,A000374,abraham.house.gov,,,legacy,"5th District U.S. Rep. Ralph Abraham, R-Alto, got a bird's-eye view of the rising river Tuesdayin a helicopter tour with Col. John Cross, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Vicksburg District. ""I'm very much concerned,"" Abraham said. ""From what I saw today there are many camps and houses in peril on the river side of the levee."" Abraham expressed confidence in the corps' ability, citing its work during the Great Flood of 2011 when the Mississippi reached an all-time high of 57.1 feet at Vicksburg. To read the full story, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-kildee-gov-snyder-apology-over-flint-water-crisis,Statement by Congressman Dan Kildee on Gov. Snyder Apology Over Flint Water Crisis,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,MI,Dan Kildee,K000380,dankildee.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05) issued the following statement today on the ongoing Flint water crisis: Governor Snyder's apology over the Flint water crisis is appropriate, as are personnel changes announced today at the Department of Environmental Quality. Through this ongoing crisis, the people of Flint did nothing wrong they are victims of this failure of government. The State of Michigan must not only acknowledge its role in this crisis, but also take responsibility and act right away to make it right. The state can immediately step up to help the children of Flint who have suffered lead exposure. Today, the Governor alluded to more actions' in the coming days to help Flint residents. These actions by the state should include the establishment of a fund to ensure that kids who are at the greatest risk for health problems from lead poisoning receive the developmental, educational and nutritional support they need to help overcome the challenges associated with lead exposure. The State of Michigan can help these kids. If the state helps them now, they will have a better future. But we cannot delay every day kids in Flint lose without support is a day they cannot get back.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://frelinghuysen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=2&itemid=1144,Frelinghuysen marks the Centennial of the National Park Service,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Rodney Frelinghuysen,F000372,frelinghuysen.house.gov,,,legacy,"On August 25, 2016, the National Park Service will turn 100 years old! In addition to some of the local sites mentioned below, the National Park Foundation and the National Park Service initiated the Find Your Park movement to encourage people to enjoy and support America's national parks. For more information, visit here:http://findyourpark.com/. New Jersey's 11th Congressional District: Morristown National Historical Park New Jerseys 11thdistrict is fortunate to be the home of our nations oldest and most historic National Park, Morristown National Historical Park. Working with the Park Service and the Washington Association, Congressman Frelinghuysen has been leading the effort to secure dollars for the Park and to help renovate the museum. For more information on Morristown National Historical Park, please visit:http://www.nps.gov/morr/index.htm. Thomas Edison National Historical Park Located in West Orange, Thomas Edison National Historical Park includes Edisons former home and laboratory. The museum collection at the Park, the largest single body of Edison-related material, is estimated to number over 300,000 items, while the archives contain approximately five million documents. For more information, visit their webpage:http://www.nps.gov/edis/index.htm. The Crossroads of the American Revolution Two hundred and thirty years ago New Jersey was at the crossroads of America's Revolutionary War. Today, there are nearly 300 sites in New Jersey with direct ties to the American Revolution. Among the landmarks areWashingtons Headquarters inMorristown, Jockey Hollow, the Old Trenton Barracks,the Dey Mansion inWayne,the Princeton, Monmouth, and Red Bank battlefields, andthe Great Falls of the Passaic. Congressman Frelinghuysen introduced H.R. 87, legislation to recognize the critical role our state played in the American Revolution. This legislation was included in the National Heritage Areas Act of 2005, which was signed into law on October 12, 2006. The Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area Act will raise the profile of New Jersey's historical importance. For more information regarding the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area, please visitwww.revolutionarynj.org/.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/hurd-hill/hurd-hill-representing-you,Hurd on the Hill: Representing You,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"Almost 12 months ago, I started a new job representing you in Washington. Being an effective leader in D.C. is not easy, especially when you are battling a bureaucracy that is slow and inefficient. But when you work smarter and harder, and surround yourself with a dedicated team, it is amazing what can be accomplished. The last time a representative from the 23rd Congressional District of Texas had legislation signed into law was 2007 -- a bill that renamed a post office. In 2015, sixty-seven bills became law and two of those are mine. Two additional bills that I introduced were also signed into law when they were added to other pieces of legislation. That means four of my bills have been signed into law, and my fifth one, The State and Local Cyber Protection Act, is on track to be sent to the Presidents desk in the New Year. My bills have a direct impact on the 23rd Congressional District by protecting the paychecks of our brave Border Patrol Agents, giving small businesses and local governments greater access to resources for cyber protection, allowing Texas to invest in border infrastructure for trade and commerce, and keeping hackers out of our governments digital infrastructure. However, not everything can be accomplished through introducing legislation. Sometimes working with my colleagues, state and federal agency heads, and local leaders is what makes something happen in our district. Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, received funding for a much-need security gate update and is on track to finally be able to fix their airfield runways so that a couple of inches of rain no longer brings pilot training to a halt. Socorro Road, stretching from Ysleta to San Elizario and Highway 132 & 173 in Devine are seeing more regular maintenance because of a call to the Texas Department of Transportation. The City of Alpine is moving forward to remediate wastewater infrastructure because of a call to TCEQ. The City of Hondo broke ground on a new vocational training facility due to a grant they received from the Economic Development Administration after receiving a letter from our office. San Antonio will soon boast a new Federal Courthouse and a National Guard Cyber Unit. Fighting for you in Washington is a job I take seriously. Beyond legislation and projects, directly helping constituents battle the bureaucracy is a huge focus for our office. We have opened over 560 cases so far this year for people across the district to advocate on their behalf to agencies such as the VA, Social Security, Medicare, the State Department, Department of Defense, and Customs and Border Protection. Not everyone has the time and resources to cut through the red tape and that is why we are here to help. If you need assistance, please contact us today through the website hurd.house.gov/services/help-with-a-federal-agency We have responded to over 76,000 letters, emails and voicemails from constituents with questions about legislation. And we have proactively reached out with additional information and updates through eNewsletters, mail and frequently scheduled telephone town halls. We have also held more than 200 meetings across the district, having at least one in every one of the 29 counties I represent. You can join in by emailing me at hurd.house.gov/contact or signing up for my eNewsletter at hurd.house.gov/contact/newsletter. I want to hear from you! Thank you all for the privilege of being your representative in Washington, DC. It is not just my title; it is my job and one that I am humbled to do each day. It has been an amazing first year representing everyone in the 23rd Congressional District of Texas and I look forward to many more. Wishing all of you a Prosperous and Happy New Year! Hurd on the Hill: Representndote a ti Es mi trabajo, y es mi honor Hace doce meses, empec mi nuevo empleo representndolos en Washington. Ser un lder efectivo en D.C. no es nada fcil, especialmente cuando enfrentas una burocracia que es lento e ineficiente. Pero cuando una trabaja ms duro y ms inteligentemente, y te rodeas con un equipo dedicado, es increble todo lo que uno puede lograr. La ltima vez que un representante del Distrito Congresional 23 de Texas tuvo una legislacin firmado a ley era en el 2007 un proyecto de ley que renombro una oficina postal. En el 2015, sesenta y siete proyectos de ley fueron firmados a ley por el Presidente y dos de esos eran mos. Dos proyecto de leyes adicionales que yo introduje tambin fueron firmados a ley cuando fueron agregados a otras piezas de legislacin. Eso significa que cuatro de mis proyectos de ley fueron firmados a ley, y mi quinto, La Acta de Proteccin Ciberntica Local y Estatal, est en rumbo para el escritorio del Presidente para el ao nuevo. Mis proyectos de ley impactan directamente al Distrito Congresional 23 al proteger los cheques de nuestros valientes agentes de la Patrulla Fronteriza, ofrecindoles a los negocios pequeos y a los gobiernos locales acceso a recursos para proteccin ciberntica, permitiendo que Texas invierta en la infraestructura fronteriza para intercambios y comercio, y manteniendo a los piratas informticos fuera de nuestra infraestructura digital del gobierno. Sin embargo, no todo puede ser cumplido por medio de legislacin. A veces el trabajar con mis colegas, jefes de agencia en el nivel estatal y federal, y nuestros encargados locales es lo que realmente hace que cosas sucedan en nuestro distrito. La Base de la Fuerza Area Laughlin, recibi fondos para una muy necesitada actualizacin de una puerta de seguridad y est en camino para poder finalmente reparar sus pistas aerdromos para que unas pulgadas de lluvia ya no detenga el entrenamiento para pilotos. Socorro Road, que estira de Ysleta a San Elizario y Highway 132 y 173 en Devine estn recibiendo con ms frecuencia mantenimiento regular por una llamada hecha al Departamento de Transportacin de Texas. La ciudad de Alpine est avanzando en la rehabilitacin de la infraestructura de las aguas residuales por una llamada hecha al TCEQ. La cuidad de Hondo abri un nuevo centro de entrenamiento vocacional por un subsidio recibido por la administracin de desarrollo econmico despus de recibir una carta de nuestra oficina. San Antonio tendr muy pronto una nueva Corte Federal y una Unidad Ciberntica De la Guardia Nacional. Peleando por usted en Washington es un trabajo que tomo en serio. Ms all de la legislacin y proyectos, el ayudar a constituyentes directamente batallar contra la burocracia es un gran enfoque de nuestra oficina. Hemos abierto ms de 560 casos hasta la fecha para personas a lo largo del distrito para abogar de su parte a agencias como l VA, Seguro Social, Medicare, el Departamento del Estado, el Departamento de Defensa, y la Aduana y Proteccin Fronteriza. No todos tienen el tiempo o los recursos para luchar en contra la burocracia, y es por eso que estamos aqu para ayudar. Si necesitan asistencia, por favor contctenos hoy por medio del sitio web hurd.house.gov/services/help-with-a-federal-agency Hemos respondido a ms de 76,000 letras, correo electrnico y correo de voz de constituyentes con preguntas sobre legislaciones. Tambin hemos comunicado activamente, proveyendo informacin adicional y mandando actualizaciones por medio de boletn electrnico, correo, y llamadas programadas al distrito. Hemos sostenido ms de 200 reuniones a lo largo del distrito, realizando al menos uno en cada de los 29 condados que represento. Pueden aadirse mandndome un correo electrnico a Hurd.house.gov/contact o suscribindose a mi boletn electrnico a Hurd.house.gov/contact/newsletter. Quiero escuchar de ti! Gracias a todos ustedes por el privilegio de ser su representante en Washington, D.C. No es solo mi ttulo; es mi trabajo y uno que me siento honrado desempear cada da. Ha sido un ao asombroso representando a todos en el distrito Congresional 23 de Texas y espero con ansiedad representar a muchos ms. Desendoles a todos un prspero Ao Nuevo!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/administration-to-release-more-gtmo-detainees-in-january/,Administration To Release More GTMO Detainees In January,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,KS,Lynn Jenkins,J000290,lynnjenkins.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – According to the Associated Press, the Administration will begin releasing the first of seventeen Guantanamo Bay (GTMO) detainees next week. Additionally, the article states that “the administration is continuing to pursue plans to find an alternate U.S.-based facility.” Upon hearing the news, Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02) released the following statement: “Once again, the Administration refuses to listen to Kansans and the American people. At my recent town hall in Leavenworth, Leavenworth County residents voiced their unanimous concerns and frustrations with the President’s plan to close the Guantanamo Bay detention center and transfer terrorists to the United States – possibly to the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth. It’s time for the President to drop this reckless campaign promise and instead focus on strengthening our national security.” Items To Note: Pentagon assessing Fort Leavenworth as possible site for Guantanamo transfers. (Lubold, Gordon, The Wall Street Journal: Pentagon Assessing Fort Leavenworth as Possible Site for Guantanamo Transfers, 08/14/15) Congresswoman Jenkins holds special town hall in Leavenworth on GTMO prisoner. http://jenkins.house.gov/press-releases/jenkins-pompeo-host-special-town-hall-on-gtmo-prisoner-transfer/ Congresswoman Jenkins and Leavenworth May write editorial explaining their bipartisan opposition to the President’s plan to close GTMO. http://journal.ijreview.com/2015/12/250687-why-we-dont-want-guantanamo-in-our-backyard/ President Obama signs NDAA barring transfer of GTMO detainees. http://jenkins.house.gov/press-releases/president-obama-signs-ndaa-barring-transfer-of-gtmo-detainees1/ President Obama’s plan to close GTMO would cost as much as $600 million. http://jenkins.house.gov/press-releases/jenkins-statement-on-pentagons-plan-to-close-guantanamo-bay-detention-center/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mourning-loss-valued-member-local-law-enforcement,Mourning the Loss of a Valued Member of Local Law Enforcement,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"Cherry Hill, NJ-Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today mourns the loss of Camden County Police Department K9 officer Zero, a decorated service dog that died last night at age 12. Zero was a distinguished member of South Jersey law enforcement. He faithfully served and protected the people of Camden County for years. He was also a wonderful ambassador for the Police Department & the City of Camden and he will be missed, said Rep. Norcross.Congressman Norcross expressed his condolences to Zeros partner, Camden County Police Lt. Zsakhiem James and the officers family in a telephone call this afternoon. I know how painful it is to lose a dog. But Zero represents so much more than just a pet. He was a trusted member of Lt. James' family and his long-time partner on the job. I know the loss of Zero will be felt for a long time to come, added Rep. Norcross. Zero, a German Shepherd, was Camdens oldest police dog, joining the police force in 2007 to become highly skilled in bomb detection. Sgt. James and Zero were honored in 2014 by then New Jersey State Senator Donald Norcross for setting a New Jersey record for the most suspect apprehensions by a K9 officer. Congressman Donald Norcross is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Budget Committee, and serves as Assistant Whip in the 114th Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-comfort-women-agreement-announced-by-republic-of-korea-and-japan,Cardin Statement on Comfort Women Agreement Announced by Republic of Korea and Japan,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,MD,Benjamin Cardin,C000141,www.cardin.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 29, 2015 Cardin Statement on Comfort Women Agreement Announced by Republic of Korea and Japan BALTIMOREU.S. Senator Ben Cardin, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign RelationsCommittee, issued the following statement regarding today's announcement by the foreign ministers of South Korea and Japan in reaching a breakthrough agreement to resolve their long standing dispute regarding comfort women during World War Two. I welcome this agreement and the leadership exhibited by both Prime Minister Abe and President Park to settle this longstanding issue in a way that recognizes the suffering of the comfort women and that is appropriate for both sides. This is a painful and difficult issue in Korea that will forever stir heart-wrenching emotions. It is vital that both nations never forget the past, and while the scars of a painful period in human history will remain, it is my sincere hope that Korea and Japan will build toward a prosperous future together in order to deepen and strengthen their relations in a rapidly changing Asia-Pacific region. Both nations have demonstrated tremendous bravery and fortitude in forging this agreement. This development has the potential to pave the way for a new path forward between two close U.S. allies and I stand ready to work alongside our partners in Seoul and Tokyo to advance this relationship. Up to 200,000 women were estimated to have been forced to serve as comfort women for Japanese soldiers during World War Two, many of them Korean. In Maryland which is home to a dynamic and vibrant Korean-American community, this issue remains a deeply personal one and though I know this announcement can never fully heal the pain caused during that period, the actions taken today by the Korean and Japanese governments demonstrates true courage and I hope will allow for future generations in the region to flourish and thrive. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.carper.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=53dfef5a-dbfd-405f-834d-a6447d4c64e4,"Carper Statement on DuPont's Announcement of Job Reductions, Specialty Products Division Headquarters",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,DE,Thomas Carper,C000174,www.carper.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WILMINGTON, Del. Today, U.S. Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement on DuPonts announcement that approximately 1,700 Delaware-based positions will be eliminated and that its corporate headquarters for the post-merger Specialty Products division will remain in Delaware. The news of the Dow-DuPont merger was a shock to all of us, and todays announcement is very troubling. My heart goes out to everyone affected by the job losses here in Delaware. These DuPont employees are our longtime friends, our family, and our neighbors. At this time of hardship for so many Delaware families, we, as the states elected officials, cant sit back, wring our hands and bemoan our fate. Weve got to roll up our sleeves and work together, and I will continue to work with the Governor and Congressional delegation to do everything we can to help those affected and make sure good job opportunities are available here in the First State. For more than two centuries, the DuPont Company has made Delaware its home, and Delawareans have been responsible for many of its most successful and profitable products. From life-saving innovations to market-changing discoveries in research, these products have been sold under the DuPont name and made it one of the most respected American companies in the history of our country. The announcement made today that Dow-DuPonts Specialty Products division will remain in Delaware comes as a small but welcome break in the clouds. The fight, however, isnt over. Its also absolutely critical that the agriculture business is headquartered here in our state, and the Congressional delegation will work alongside Governor Markell, the Delaware legislature, and business and community leaders to do our part to ensure it is.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/cornyn-op-ed-2015-new-senate-majority-delivered-nation,"Cornyn Op-Ed: In 2015, New Senate Majority Delivered For The Nation",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) published the following op-ed on FoxNews.com recapping the Senate’s accomplishments in the first year of the new Republican Majority: In 2015, New Senate Majority Delivered For The Nation FoxNews.com U.S. Senator John Cornyn December 29, 2015 http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2015/12/28/sen-john-cornyn-in-2015-new-senate-majority-delivered-for-nation.html Congress is often characterized as a place of partisan bickering and gridlock—where debate and partisan rancor is widespread, but little is actually accomplished. Too often, this assessment has proven accurate. But last fall, the American people decided to change that, sending a Republican majority to the U.S. Senate. Since January, and under Republican leadership, the Senate has delivered on our promise to pass legislation to help American families, grow our economy, and keep us safe. At the beginning of the 114th Congress, I introduced the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act—legislation aimed at defeating the scourge of human trafficking in this country. Human trafficking is a horrendous practice that, tragically, can be found in every state. Fortunately, members in both parties, and in both Chambers, understood the great need to urgently fight this reprehensible practice. Legislators from across the political spectrum united under a common cause: to help victims of modern-day slavery recover and rebuild their lives. In the spring, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act passed with 99 votes in the Senate, and paved the way for these brave survivors—some young children—to find a path to healing. It’s now the law of the land. Congress also tackled major issues concerning our national security. This fall, both Chambers overwhelmingly passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA is integral to ensuring that our military is resourced, trained and ready for action when called upon. And in the wake of several serious security breaches of federal government computer servers over the summer—and the brazen theft of the personal information of millions of Americans—the clear need for robust cyber security legislation became even more apparent. So, the Senate passed the Cyber Information Sharing Act to give the public and private sectors the tools to act more nimbly when attacks are detected. We’ve also passed legislation to grow our economy not just for today, but for years down the road. In June, Congress passed Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) legislation. TPA is a blueprint for pending and future trade negotiations—one that ensures that American farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers get the best deal possible. By setting the ground rules on agreements with countries in Asia, Latin America, and Europe, TPA opens doors of opportunity to our country’s businesses around the world, and is essential to growing our economy. But perhaps the most significant achievement was confronting entrenched policy problems that proved too divisive or complicated to tackle in the past. In April, Congress came together to bring about much-needed reform to the payment system for doctors who treat Medicare patients. The legislation preserved seniors’ access to care, and ended years of uncertainty for physicians. Congress also passed the first significant education reform since 2001. The Every Student Succeeds Act ensures that parents, teachers, and local school boards will hold the reins to their children’s education, not the federal government. And for the first time in more than a decade, Congress passed a multi-year transportation bill—the result of hard work across party lines over the course of this year. Passage of this bill marked an end to years of short-term extensions, and will allow states the freedom and flexibility to plan for and deliver major transportation and infrastructure projects across the country. This will help make our nation’s transportation system safer and more efficient, and lays the groundwork for even greater economic growth. Last fall, Republicans set the bar high for the new Senate majority. We pledged to get back to work, and to create and pass substantive pieces of legislation. We did that, and proved that inaction didn’t have to be the norm. Effective governance and principled leadership doesn’t shy away from confronting long-standing, seemingly intractable policy problems head-on. As we look to the year ahead, our work is far from over. But by keeping the American people in the drivers’ seat, we will continue to deliver real solutions for our country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=ff74e7e0-7a59-4403-9bfd-ed9c339494cf,Heitkamp Announces Senate Passed Pilots Bill of Rights 2 Supporting General Aviation in ND,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,ND,Heidi Heitkamp,H001069,www.heitkamp.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a member of the Senate General Aviation Caucus, today announced the Senate unanimously passed bipartisan legislation she cosponsored which will support general aviation in North Dakota by making sure pilots are treated fairly and reducing burdensome requirements currently in place. The Pilots Bill of Rights 2 will decrease unnecessary bureaucracy pilots currently face, cut costs, improve protections for pilots, and reform certain medical requirements. The bill had 70 cosponsors in the Senate. The House of Representatives needs to pass the bill before it goes to the President for his signature. General aviation pilots in North Dakota understand the importance of safety while in flight, said Heitkamp. Yet for too long, pilots have faced onerous and costly rules, preventing them the fair treatment they deserve. This overwhelmingly bipartisan bill will reform many of these outdated regulations so they work better for pilots while still making sure safety is the top priority. Details about the Pilots Bill of Rights 2: Reforms the FAAs overly burdensome medical certification process by expanding an existing FAA medical standard to include more qualified, trained, general aviation pilots. Outlines specific requirements that pilots need to meet to qualify for the expanded medical standard, including completion of a medical education course every two years, self-certification by the pilot that they are being treated by their physician for any medical diagnosis that could impact their ability to fly, and the use of a checklist to guide the discussion between pilots and their physicians during a health examination, which must occur once every four years. Enhances the due process rights established in the first Pilots Bill of Rights by making sure airman have the right to appeal an FAA decision through a new, merit-based trial in Federal Court. Increases transparency for airman subject to an investigation or enforcement action by requiring the FAA to articulate the specific activity under investigation to parties involved in the investigation and provides specific documentation relevant to its investigation. Expedites updates to the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) Improvement Program required in the first Pilots Bill of Rights and directs the FAA to include the effective duration of temporary flight restrictions in NOTAMs. This makes sure the most relevant and important information reaches the pilot prior to a flight taking place. The legislation also mandates that the FAA certify the accuracy of posted NOTAMs. Makes sure the accessibility of flight data, such as air traffic communication tapes and radar information produced by contract towers, and flight service stations and controller training programs, which gives certificate holders the ability to use this information to defend themselves during an enforcement action proceeding. The bill builds on Heitkamps work to cut red tape in the federal government by making federal regulations more efficient and effective. In March, Heitkamp and Republican Senator James Lankfordof Oklahoma who are the chairman and ranking member, respectively, of the Senate subcommittee that oversees the management of federal regulations launched their#CutRedTape Initiativeto gather stories about how federal regulations are impacting Americans across the country every day, and help make federal regulations work better for families and businesses by reducing waste, stopping backlogs, and cutting red tape. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-senate-passes-measure-to-update-faa-medical-certification-protect-pilots-due-process-rights,"Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12.29.15 Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights Bill Supports General Aviation, Allows More Qualified Pilots to Continue Flying WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Senate has passed the Pilot's Bill of Rights II, a measure he cosponsored that updates the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) medical certification for most general aviation pilots, providing a safe and transparent process to help ensure more healthy, qualified and trained pilots can fly. The bill expands the 3rd class medical exemption for recreational pilots flying light sport aircraft and broadens the protections provided in the original Pilot's Bill of Rights signed into law in 2012, which Hoeven also cosponsored. General aviation is an important part of North Dakota's transportation infrastructure and economy, providing vital services across industries, Hoeven said. The FAA's current medical standards are outdated, costly to comply with, prevent healthy and skilled pilots from flying and do little to ensure the safe operation of general aviation aircraft. Our bill updates the FAA's medical exemption process to reflect real-world health care needs and risks, which will better serve our pilots, empower them to seek treatment for their medical conditions and enhance public safety. The Pilot's Bill of Rights II: Expands the existing FAA exemption for a 3rd class medical certificate to include general aviation aircraft up to 6,000 pounds and raises altitude up to 18,000 feet. Maintains safe aircraft operations by requiring an individual to take an online medical education course, complete the FAA medical evaluation process one time and maintain ongoing medical care, while also providing a checklist to guide discussion between pilots and their physicians during health examinations and maintaining the special issuance process for pilots diagnosed with mental health disorders, neurological disorders or cardiovascular conditions. Expands the original Pilot's Bill of Rights by explicitly stating that pilots facing investigation by the FAA may appeal to a district court and clarifies who bears the burden of proof. Expedites updates to the FAA's Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) program to ensure pilots receive and can access important flight safety information in a timely and relevant manner. -###- Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.mccaskill.senate.gov/media-center/latest-headlines/most-have-a-positive-outlook-on-st-josephs-business-climate,Most have a positive outlook on St. Joseph's business climate,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,MO,Claire McCaskill,M001170,www.mccaskill.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Most have a positive outlook on St. Joseph's business climate Tuesday, December 29, 2015 By: Alan Van Zandt As the year 2015 comes to an end, it's time to look back at the last 12 months at some of the stories that affected us most. The KQ2 news staff have compiled a list of the five biggest stories of the year. Here's Number 4 on our list: An Optimistic Local Business Economic Outlook It's a scene repeated dozens of times this past year: a ribbon cutting sponsored by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce as another business puts its support behind the local economy. ""We're really looking forward to this opportunity. It seems to be a really good fit for Daily's Premium Meats,"" said David Eaheart earlier this year, as his company began groundbreaking on its new facility in south St. Joseph. In 2015, St. Joseph was named as the 4th strongest farming and agribusiness region in the country. That level was reached in part thanks to companies like Boeringer-Ingleheim, which in the past year announced a major facility upgrade and expansion in the city. That drew the attention of Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill, who recently toured the site. ""They have chosen St. Joe area for this major facility and expansion. I'm here to learn about the challenges they face in the global economy,"" she said. With a stronger climate for business, it also helped out retail. The long dormant Tuscany Village project got back off the ground with the promise of more shops for the area. ""I couldn't believe it when they brought up that it was 2005 when Tuscuny Village first approached the city,"" said City Council Member Donna Jean Boyer after a city council meeting where project developers got the go-ahead to re-start their project. East Hills Mall, under new ownership, showed increased sales as it celebrated it's 50th anniversary. ""To see over the years the growth and development to go along with the changing needs of the community has been amazing,"" said owner Erica Feingold. Even downtown St. Joseph showed signs of coming to life. A plan years in the making to shape downtown as an arts and entertainment district started to take shape, with visible signs of activity. SOT: Teresa Fankhauser, Allied Arts Association: ""We wanted to add to the renaissance that is happening in downtown with so many shops and businesses coming in,"" said Teresa Fankauser, executive director of the Allied Arts Association. ""We wanted to be a part of that and help with bringing new people into the area."" Downtown revitalization efforts were further boosted when Mosaic Life Care also announced a $20 million plan to renovate the German-American building downtown and eventually move 200 employees to that location. Print Email Tweet",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.mccaskill.senate.gov/media-center/news-releases/mccaskill-statement-on-missouri-flooding-december-2015,McCaskill Statement on Missouri Flooding,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,MO,Claire McCaskill,M001170,www.mccaskill.senate.gov,,,legacy,"McCaskill Statement on Missouri Flooding Tuesday, December 29, 2015 WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill today released the following statement on the historic flooding affecting Missouri: I'm praying for the safety of all Missourians, and those in affected communities should please pay close attention to guidance from local officials and first responders. I stand ready to assist with any request for federal disaster resources to help get our families and businesses quickly back on their feet. ### Print Email Tweet",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-in-old-saybrook-today-murphy-courtney-celebrate-new-opportunities-to-preserve-land-and-open-space,"IN OLD SAYBROOK TODAY, MURPHY, COURTNEY CELEBRATE NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO PRESERVE LAND OPEN SPACE",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,CT,Christopher Murphy,M001169,www.murphy.senate.gov,,,legacy,"IN OLD SAYBROOK TODAY, MURPHY, COURTNEY CELEBRATE NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO PRESERVE LAND & OPEN SPACE End-of-year tax and funding package permanently extends conservation easement tax incentive and boosts federal conservation funding Tuesday, December 29, 2015 OLD SAYBROOK Today, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-2) celebrated the permanent renewal of the conservation easement tax incentive as well as significant federal funding for land preservation. Murphy and Courtney joined State Senator Art Linares, State Rep. Devin Carney, First Selectman Carl Fortuna, Mike Urban of the Old Saybrook Land Trust, and other community leaders at the town hall in Old Saybrook, which recently completed one of Connecticuts largest land conservation projects. Today, we announced a pretty amazing set of wins for land conservation in Connecticut and across the country, said Murphy. I have been working on the issue of land conservation since my time in the U.S. House of Representatives as the chair of the Land Conservation Caucus, and Ive never seen successes like weve achieved this year. The end of the year budget and tax bill will help preserve millions of acres of land across the country and will make Connecticut eligible to receive more federal land conservation funding to partner with state and private funds than ever before. Its easy for us to advocate for this bipartisan commitment because of the strong support for conservation here in Eastern Connecticut and across the state. We really are a national leader for land preservation, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for the best ways to preserve land and open space for generations to come. ""I was very pleased to see so many important conservation initiatives addressed in the end-of-year agreement to fund the government and extend certain tax credits, said Courtney. From extending the Conservation Easement Tax Credit, to the reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund in the omnibus appropriations bill, Congress clearly showed that making targeted investments to preserve open space and protect our natural resources is a top priority. We are in Old Saybrook today to highlight these programs because the recent establishment of a protected forest area here, known as the Preserve, has made Old Saybrook a great example of a locality benefiting from this type of funding. The Preserve is a tangible example of local, state and federal collaboration, using Land and Water Conservation Funds to leverage additional investment for the purchase of this irreplaceable site. After years of effort, the Preserve will permanently protect 963 acres of pristine oak woodlands, making this the most important stretch of protected costal forest between Boston and New York."" The permanent tax credit will give landowners much-needed predictability and will allow them to afford to conserve land throughout Connecticut for generations to come. By incentivizing the voluntary conservation of land while preserving private property rights, conservation easements have been a successful, cost-effective incentive to help preserve watersheds and farms for future generations across the nation. With the enhanced incentive in place, conservation of land increased by about 33% nationwide, exceeding one million acres per year. In Connecticut alone, 11,344 acres were preserved in the first five years that the incentive was enacted a 44% increase in conservation compared to when the incentive was not in place. Additionally, according to the Land Trust Alliance, every dollar of tax incentives leverages $2.80 worth of land conservation. The budget bill also increased federal funding for land conservation, including funding $900 million through Fiscal Year 2018 for the Land and Water Conservation Fund and $10 million for the Highlands Conservation program, which serves Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.paul.senate.gov/news-sen-rand-paul-holds-town-hall-paducah-performing-free-eye-surgeries/,Sen. Rand Paul Holds Town Hall in Paducah Before Performing Free Eye Surgeries,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,Senate,KY,Rand Paul,P000603,www.paul.senate.gov,paul,https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"PADUCAH, KY – Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul held a Town Hall in Paducah, Kentucky at the Paducah Chamber of Commerce Center. Before heading to the Ambulatory Surgery Center in Paducah to perform pro bono eye surgeries, Sen. Paul spoke with Kentuckians in attendance and took questions from the audience. Questions ranged from local issues to immigration to national defense. Following the Town Hall, Sen. Paul performed pro bono eye surgeries with Dr. Barbara Bowers. Sen. Paul regularly performs free eye surgeries for charity, and since being elected to the Senate in 2010, he has continued to use his skills to help those in need. No related posts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T20:33:33Z https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/sen-rand-paul-holds-town-hall-paducah-performing-free-eye-surgeries,Sen. Rand Paul Holds Town Hall in Paducah Before Performing Free Eye Surgeries,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,KY,Rand Paul,P000603,www.paul.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PADUCAH, KY Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul held a Town Hall in Paducah, Kentucky at the Paducah Chamber of Commerce Center. Before heading to the Ambulatory Surgery Center in Paducah to perform pro bono eye surgeries, Sen. Paul spoke with Kentuckians in attendance and took questions from the audience. Questions ranged from local issues to immigration to national defense. Following the Town Hall, Sen. Paul performed pro bono eye surgeries with Dr. Barbara Bowers. Sen. Paul regularly performs free eye surgeries for charity, and since being elected to the Senate in 2010, he has continued to use his skills to help those in need.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.perdue.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-david-perdue-2015-a-year-in-photos,Senator David Perdue: 2015 A Year in Photos,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,GA,David Perdue,P000612,www.perdue.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Meet David Connect Helping You News",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-casey-seek-to-raise-student-achievement-by-improving-teacher-preparation,"Reed, Casey Seek to Raise Student Achievement by Improving Teacher Preparation",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,,,legacy,"12/29/2015CRANSTON, RI In an effort to boost student achievement in the classroom, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Bob Casey (D-PA) have introduced the Educator Preparation Reform Act, aimed at better preparing teachers, principals, librarians, and other school leaders by developing the skills and knowledge they need to be effective and profession-ready on day one. The Educator Preparation Reform Act would overhaul federal laws governing teacher preparation, including reporting requirements, accountability provisions, and the TEACH Grant scholarship program. Earlier this month, the Washington Post reported that many high poverty schools struggle to fill their teaching positions and rely on a rotating cast of substitutes. The report went on to explain that inner-city schools tend to employ teachers who are more inexperienced than the hires at affluent schools, and the teachers often are not adequately trained for the intense environments they will face. We need to help motivated teachers and principals so they hit the ground running, especially in our highest need schools. We know that quality teachers and principals make a real positive difference for kids and help raise student achievement in the classroom. If we want to improve our schools, it is essential that teachers, principals, and other educators have a comprehensive system that supports their preparation, professional growth, and development, before the first day of school and continuing throughout their careers. There is a looming shortage of fully-prepared teachers and we must do better by our students and our schools. The legislation were introducing today encourages an increased level of investment in our teachers for the sake of our students, said Senator Reed. When children learn more at an early age they earn more later in life. One of the keys to helping our children learn more at a young age is a teacher who is ready to enrich students from day one, Senator Casey said. Giving our nations teachers the tools to succeed is an essential part of helping students get off to a strong and smart start to their lives. This legislation will help teachers grow their skills and ultimately help students achieve. Reed and Casey teamed up earlier this year on the Better Educator Support & Training (BEST) Act, an effort to equip educators with the necessary resources through additional, targeted funding. The Senators worked behind the scenes to include the BEST Act language in the Every Student Succeeds Act, signed into law this month. The Educator Preparation Reform Act will build on that reform, and the success of the Teacher Quality Partnership Program, which Reed helped author in the 1998 reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. The Educator Preparation Reform Act places specific attention and emphasis on principals with the addition of a residency program for new principals. The bill better connects teacher preparation with principal preparation, and the legislation would also allow partnerships to develop preparation programs for other areas of instructional need, such as for school librarians, counselors, or other academic support professionals. The bill streamlines the accountability and reporting requirements for teacher preparation programs to provide greater transparency on key quality measures such as admissions standards, requirements for clinical practice, placement of graduates, retention in the field of teaching, and teacher performance, including student learning outcomes. All programs whether traditional or alternative routes to certification will be asked to report on the same measures. Under the legislation, states will be required to identify at-risk and low-performing programs and provide them with technical assistance and a timeline for improvement, and states would be encouraged to close programs that do not improve. The Educator Preparation Reform Act is supported by: Alliance for Excellent Education; American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education; American Association of State Colleges and Universities; American Council on Education; Association of American Universities; Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities; Association of Public and Land-grant Universities; Council for Christian Colleges and Universities; First Focus Campaign for Children; Higher Education Consortium for Special Education; Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities; National Association of Elementary School Principals; National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities; National Association of Secondary School Principals; National Association of State Directors of Special Education; National Center for Learning Disabilities; National Disability Rights Network; National Education Association; Public Advocacy for Kids; Rural School and Community Trust; and Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children. -end- Print Email Tweet",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/for-the-wealthiest-a-private-tax-system-that-saves-them-billions,"For the Wealthiest, a Private Tax System That Saves Them Billions",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Independent,House,VT,Bernard Sanders,S000033,www.sanders.senate.gov,,,legacy,"For the Wealthiest, a Private Tax System That Saves Them Billions By: NOAM SCHEIBER and PATRICIA COHEN Tuesday, December 29, 2015 WASHINGTON The hedge fund magnates Daniel S. Loeb, Louis Moore Bacon andSteven A. Cohenhave much in common. They have managed billions of dollars in capital, earning vast fortunes. They have invested millions in art and millions more in political candidates. Moreover, each has exploited an esoteric tax loophole that saved them millions in taxes. The trick? Route the money to Bermuda and back. With inequality at its highest levels in nearly a century and public debate rising over whether the government should respond to it through higher taxes on the wealthy, the very richest Americans have financed a sophisticated and astonishingly effective apparatus for shielding their fortunes. Some call it the income defense industry, consisting of a high-priced phalanx of lawyers, estate planners, lobbyists and anti-tax activists who exploit and defend a dizzying array of tax maneuvers, virtually none of them available to taxpayers of more modest means. In recent years, this apparatus has become one of the most powerful avenues of influence for wealthy Americans of all political stripes, including Mr. Loeb and Mr. Cohen, who give heavily to Republicans, and the liberal billionaireGeorge Soros, who has called for higher levies on the richwhile at the same time usingtax loopholes to bolster his own fortune. Continue reading here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/following-his-return-iraq-rep-zeldin-releases-statement-iraqi-military,"Following His Return from Iraq, Rep. Zeldin Releases Statement on Iraqi Military Recapturing Ramadi",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NY,Lee Zeldin,Z000017,zeldin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, C NY 1), Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, who just returned from a Christmas time Congressional Delegation (CODEL) visit to Iraq and Kuwait, released the following statement after the Iraqi military recaptured Ramadi from ISIS: Recapturing Ramadi is a key strategic victory for Iraq and coalition forces. For Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, U.S. Army Lieutenant General Sean McFarland, the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service, and all others who played critical roles in this effort, this is a very positive development not just for Iraqi security, but for the security of the free world in the fight against ISIS. In Iraq, the United States and coalition partners clearly have a plan and that plan is moving in the right direction. Since the May 19th fall of Ramadi, there has been no loss of ground to ISIS for more than 48 hours. It is very tenuous though and with so much ground still to recapture, the reality remains that this could all pivot in the opposite direction in the blink of an eye. An intense battle for Mosul still awaits. For ISIS, which has linked its efforts to establishing a caliphate, holding ground and expanding further is critical. That is a key reason why their loss of Ramadi is important. There is a possibility that within two to five years, the Iraqis will recapture all land in their country currently held by ISIS. That is far from certain, but for the first time in a long time, many are at least feeling momentum in the right direction. Syria and Libya are a completely different story where there seems to be no plan to defeat ISIS, only to take out some of the bad guys and disrupt some of their command and control. That situation I fear is likely to get worse before it gets better and is a race against the clock. The best humanitarian victory that can be delivered for the Syrians is to wipe ISIS off the face of the earth and for the rest of the civil war to end. It is difficult to develop a plan for a post-Assad Syria if all of the people needed to run the country afterwards flee now with almost no possibility they will move back later. There is only so much patience before those capable of rebuilding Syria who still remain will also flee the country. This is an urgent crisis without a plan. The United States has an important role to play in the mission to defeat ISIS, whether we want to or not. It is clear that in Iraq at least the strategy has evolved recently into one that is using more boots on the ground while approaching operations responsibly in a way to greatly mitigate the potential loss of American service members. There are still ways to improve the mission from intelligence collection to information operations (IO). On the IO front, despite all of the sacrifice made by the United States in Iraq, there is little to no gratitude for our efforts. We should consider additional ways to improve the message that is being disseminated to civilians so that they better understand history and current reality rather than just the version the Iranians are providing with their media propaganda throughout Iraq. The Iran backing of Shia militia is a sustained issue. Right now, they are not targeting Americans, but in the past, they have killed and wounded U.S. service members and the threat of future violence is an impediment for mission accomplishment. There is a direct connection to the recently negotiated Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between the P5+1. The leverage that brought the Iranians to the table was the sanctions relief and now those sanctions have been negotiated away without resolving so many other lingering issues such as state sponsored terrorism, efforts to overthrow foreign governments, illegal ballistic missile tests, and pledges of Death to America. America must come to the realization that we got played at the negotiating table and consider options to reconsider our unilateral concessions that negotiated away our leverage. There are also major challenges still ahead for Prime Minister al-Abadi who appears to currently be leading better than his predecessor, former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. It is still uncertain whether Iraq has a stable future with the Kurds, Sunnis and Shia accepting the new form of government. Prime Minister al-Abadi seems to be working very hard to move the complex pieces in a direction where the coalition government would have its best chance for success. On the military front, the recapturing of Ramadi was a key victory for the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service (CTS). The larger issue is the massive gap in readiness between CTS and the rest of the Iraqi Army, which lacks the will to defend the country. The CTS ranks need to grow without compromising quality in pursuit of quantity and/or the Iraqi Army needs to start showing up for work and shaping up to keep the nation secure. Its a complex map in the Middle East with additional factors at play when you add in to the mix Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, etc. As for Iraq specifically, the path forward is uncertain, but with victory in Ramadi, a plan that could potentially work, and momentum in the right direction, there is enough reason to not only praise a hard fought battle won, but to be a little more optimistic about the future. The strategy is evolving and victory no longer seems impossible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-fights-save-florida-panther,Buchanan Fights to Save Florida Panther,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Endangered Animal Needs a ""Safe Habitat"" To Survive WASHINGTON U.S. Rep Vern Buchanan, R-FL, noting yet another panther death in southwest Florida, today called on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to designate a critical habitat for the endangered animal. Wildlife officials said last week a 1-year-old Florida panther was killed by a vehicle, raising to 30 the number of automobile-related deaths in 2015. The Florida panther remains one of the most endangered mammals on earth, with fewer than 180 big cats alive today. The breeding population of Florida panthers is found only in the southern tip of the state. Each year, the Florida panther population continues to shrink in size as more big cats are hit and killed by cars because they lack a safe habitat, Buchanan said. Although these panthers are protected under the federal Endangered Species Act, they face extinction because they have no protected area to live and repopulate. Earlier this month Buchanan and several other Florida congressmen sent a letter to President Obama requesting a safe habitat for the Florida panther. The letter highlighted the need for a safe environment that would preserve valuable environmental resources, such as wetlands, aquifer-recharge areas, drinking water supplies. We should not stand by and do nothing as yet another endangered species is wiped off the earth, Buchanan said. We dont get a second chance once a species becomes extinct. The panther was one of the original 14 mammals named to the endangered species list in 1967, but a critical habitat has never been established, even though one is required by the Endangered Species Act. Buchanan is a longtime advocate of the Endangered Species Act and has been recognized as a legislative leader by the U.S. Humane Society for his record on animal welfare issues.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://chu.house.gov/press-release/rep-chu-statement-japans-apology-comfort-women,"Rep. Chu Statement on Japan's Apology to ""Comfort Women""",2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,CA,Judy Chu,C001080,chu.house.gov,,,legacy,"PASADENA, CA - On Monday, Japan and South Korea announced an historic agreement regarding the issue of ""comfort women"" - women who were captured and used as sex slaves by the Japanese Army during World War II. Under the agreement, Japan will apologize to the Korean women for the physical and emotional pain and contribute approximately $8.3 million to a fund for the survivors. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) has repeatedly called on Japan to acknowledge this wrong, most recently during Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to Washington in April. Rep. Chu welcomed the agreement and released the following statement: ""This is an historic apology for an historic wrong by Japan. For the women who were forced into sex slavery by the Japanese Army during World War II, the wounds have stayed open for decades. Unfortunately for these women, Japan has often denied responsibility and blamed their suffering on war. This has made it difficult for the survivors to recover and offers a shield to those who would repeat these horrors in the future. We have a responsibility to close this painful chapter and help the survivors move forward. By acknowledging both Japan's role and remorse, and by contributing to a fund for the survivors, Japan is setting an example for the world that such crimes cannot be forgotten, ignored, or repeated. I hope that this will help the survivors and the people of Korea and Japan to move forward in peace.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cole.house.gov/real-achievements,Real Achievements,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,,,legacy,"Despite the commonly held opinion that this has been an unproductive Congress, I believe that this year lawmakers have proved that the federal government can function under regular order and responsibly get the work of the American people done. It is especially encouraging that, even in the era of divided government, there are a number of legislative achievements that can make all Americans rest assured that the work of the people, through their elected representatives, is indeed getting done. Since this spring, lawmakers have been working on legislation to responsibly fund the government, and this year marked the first time since 2006 that all 12 spending bills were passed through the Appropriations Committee in both chambers. In the House of Representatives, six of those funding bills passed by bipartisan majority votes on the floor. However, it wasnt until after a long negotiation between leaders in both chambers of Congress and in communication with the president that worry of another government shutdown was finally laid to rest. Guided by funding levels previously agreed to in the Bipartisan Budget Act and spending recommendations from the groundwork laid in the Appropriations subcommittees, the resulting omnibus legislation passed before Christmas represented an acceptable, albeit imperfect, compromise. Passed by a strong majority in Congress and signed by the president, it not only keeps the government open but it provides financial peace and much needed stability for a full fiscal year. It is important to note that more than 60 percent of the spending in the so-called omnibus bill went to fund the military and support our veterans. During the same week that Congress passed vital legislation to fund the government, lawmakers also supported and the president signed into law a bill that permanently extends more than 20 temporary tax provisions. In addition to helping out individuals and job creators and boosting economic growth, the law also encourages comprehensive tax reform, reduces potential fraud and abuse within tax credit programs and seeks to further rein in the power of the IRS. This was a responsible, sensible measure than not only gives greater certainty to businesses as they make plans for investments and potential expansion, but also spares American taxpayers from burdensome and immediate tax increases. In the days ahead, it will certainly empower American job creators, benefit American workers and give the American economy the best chance to succeed. Earlier this spring, I was pleased that Congress secured and the president signed into law some real entitlement reform through legislation that permanently replaced the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate that had often short-changed Medicare reimbursements for doctors. Rather than relying on another temporary and expensive doc-fix solution, lawmakers offered an alternative to the broken payment model that properly compensates physicians and allows patients to receive the best possible care. The legislation also lowered Medicares unfunded liabilities by nearly $3 trillion.But even more recently, the budget deal passed in October included a provision that saved Social Security Disability payments from a nearly 20 percent cut and still lowered the long-term cost of the program. Another landmark achievement during this Congress was passage of legislation to invest in our nations roads, bridges and rail. In fact, this Congress marked the first time since 2005 that a multi-year highway bill made it through both chambers and was signed into law by the president. At its core, the legislation showed commitment to a safe, efficient and well-maintained infrastructure. It will offer greater certainty to state and local projects, help move people and products and keep our economy strong and vibrant. For the first time since 2002, Congress worked to improve the educational outlook for students across the entire nation through passage of legislation to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Specifically and most notably, the legislation that was signed into law by the president repealed No Child Left Behind (NCLB), which had excessively increased the federal governments role in K-12 education in every state in the country. Instead of an excessive federal role like that mandated by NCLB, the ESEA Conference Report ushers in an era that allows states and local education leaders to develop criteria and maintain responsibility for measuring the success of students and schools, address failures and fill learning gaps. It also prohibits a federal mandate requiring states to follow Common Core standards and protects private and home schools from needless federal interference. This year, both chambers of Congress passed unquestionably bipartisan legislation to address human trafficking. In February, the House dedicated an entire week to consideration and passage of 12 bipartisan bills to improve enforcement of current law, ensure captors and those paying them are held accountable for their crimes, provide better recovery resources and encourage awareness training in communities. Later in the spring, both chambers passed the Justice for Victims of Human Trafficking Act of 2015, which was signed into law at the end of May. Throughout the year, lawmakers acted in bipartisan cooperation to pass legislation that keeps the promises made to our veterans. The president signed into law the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act and the Veterans Entrepreneurship Act of 2015. Other legislation passed included measures to reform mismanagement and address abuses at the Department of Veterans Affairs, improve veteran access to quality care, ensure veterans receive their earned benefits and help veterans succeed in the workforce following their military service. In light of rising concerns about the threat posed by ISIL, lawmakers passed legislation directly in response to perceived holes in the system for bringing in refugees and weak spots in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for accepting visitors. Both bills were written and passed with the goal of strengthening the screening process and preventing terrorists from entering the United States under the ruse of a refugee or temporary visitor. I am pleased that the omnibus spending bill included the House-recommended changes to VWP in order to prevent acts of terrorism by visitors to the United States. Finally, the House recently experienced a fresh change in leadership. After the retirement of Speaker John Boehner, I was very pleased that Paul Ryan was pressed into service by his colleagues and encouraged to take his place. Speaker Ryan is not only an accomplished legislator who has chaired two major committees and served as his party's nominee for Vice President, but he has also demonstrated the ability to effectively articulate a conservative vision that has the ability to attract support far beyond the Republican base. While some of these things may not be earth-shaking achievements, they are certainly real achievements. Perhaps most importantly, its a testament that people of good will, even when they have sharp political differences, can still work together for the good of all Americans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://foxx.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398788,Clemmons man inspires new legislation adopted by Congress,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NC,Virginia Foxx,F000450,foxx.house.gov,,,legacy,"It has taken nearly five years, but a Clemmons financial advisors idea to alter language on the federal IRA accounts was adopted by the U.S. House of Representatives last week.Shepherded through by U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx, the bill streamlines SIMPLE IRA rollovers. Paul Johnson of Clemmons first brought it to her attention. Johnson said the process had given him some indication about how cumbersome the law making process can be. In some ways, I am glad bills take a while to get passed. I think my clients are going to be pleased that Congresswoman Foxx managed to get this bill passed. I faxed Senators Burr and Tillis last week, asking them to support the Senate version that included my bill, he said. With rare bipartisan support, the legislation corrects a technical limitation preventing the rollover of tax-deferred retirement funds into existing SIMPLE IRA accounts. When I received an email from Congresswoman Foxx policy advisor I was excited that my small idea for a bill was passed this month, said Johnson One of the best retirement plans for small businesses is the SIMPLE IRA. Owners can offer employees a way to save for retirement without all those fees in 401(k)s. My clients were frustrated when they could not roll their other retirement savings into their SIMPLE IRA and have just one account. I wondered if Congress could reverse the prohibition on employees to consolidate of other accounts into the SIMPLE IRA. My respect for Congresswoman Foxx led me to reach out to her. Five years ago, after her re-election in 2010, I sent a fax asking for a change in the law so that clients could consolidate. She met with me and replied that she would work on it. She and her staff spent over 35 hours researching the ERISA regulations, the history of the bill and wrote it. She had to get acceptance that it was revenue neutral and find a Democrat as a co-sponsor. She told me that she went to a Democrat from Massachusetts and asked for his co-sponsorship by saying I have a constituent who says this is important for his clients and I imagine there are advisors in your district with the same concerns. Thats all a lot of work! Congresswoman Foxx stayed with it when it couldnt get the light of day in the term of 2011 and 2012. I attempted to enlist help from my professional organization, NAIFA [National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors], but it was Foxx work that led to the co-sponsor. Ive been so happy for her work during the next five years. She kept her staff on it and even had to find a new co-sponsor when the previous one lost his re-election. She got the bill re-written two more times. She and her policy advisor stayed in touch with me over these five years. I know that many of my clients will be happy to roll their other retirement accounts into the SIMPLE IRA instead of just having a Rollover IRA. The language is part of the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act, which provides permanent tax relief for American families, college students, charities, small businesses and enterprises on the forefront of innovation. Individuals should be able to consolidate their retirement funds in a way that best meets their needs, and Im pleased this legislation includes language that will simplify retirement planning and ensure a complex tax code does not prevent sensible financial planning decisions, said Foxx. This legislation is an important first step on the long road to ensuring our tax system works for Americans, not against them. SIMPLE IRAs face a 25 percent early withdrawal penalty during the first two years of their existence compared to 10 percent for other IRAs. In order to prevent account holders from unknowingly rolling their IRA funds into SIMPLE IRAs and being surprised by an increased early withdrawal penalty, current law prohibits rolling funds over into a SIMPLE IRA from other retirement accounts. However, SIMPLE IRAs have the same early withdrawal penalty as other IRAs after that initial two-year period, and consumers and financial planners have struggled with the rollover restrictions as they attempt to consolidate accounts. Foxxs language allows for rollovers into SIMPLE IRA accounts that have met the two-year threshold. By making a number of temporary tax provisions permanent, the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act delivers certainty to American taxpayers and makes it easier for employers to plan ahead, hire new workers, grow their businesses and invest in their communities. http://www.clemmonscourier.net/2015/12/28/clemmons-man-inspires-new-legislation-adopted-by-congress/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-decries-noaa%E2%80%99s-restrictive-summer-flounder-quota,Pallone Decries NOAAs Restrictive Summer Flounder Quota,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) decried the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations (NOAA) final rule on 2016 summer flounder catch limits released today. Under the rule, the summer flounder acceptable catch limit is being reduced by 30 percent, from 23 million pounds to 16 million pounds. I am most disappointed in the restrictive rule for our commercial and recreational fishermen in New Jersey. They depend on a sufficient summer flounder quota and without one, New Jerseys economy faces a threat as it continues to rebound from Superstorm Sandy, said Congressman Pallone. I am fully committed to working with my New Jersey colleagues and pressing NOAA for more favorable catch limits in the future. Earlier this year, Pallone submitted a letter to the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC), which reviews the quota process prior to NOAA. In his letter, which was signed by Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), Pallone requested less restrictive quota limits for summer flounder stock. The letter is available HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/president-signs-pallone%E2%80%99s-bill-ban-microbeads-cosmetics,President Signs Pallones Bill to Ban Microbeads in Cosmetics,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, announced that President Obama today signed into law Pallones Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015. The legislation will prohibit the manufacture and sale of personal care products that contain plastic microbeads. These small bits of plastic, used as exfoliants in personal care products, like face wash and toothpaste, can slip through water treatment systems after they are washed down the drain. As a result, these microbeads often end up in local streams, rivers and larger bodies of water. The law will ban themanufacturing of personal care products containing plastic microbeads effective July 1, 2017. Pallone introduced the bill earlier this year with Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI-06). The Presidents signature on this legislation is a major victory for U.S. waterways and the environment, said Congressman Pallone. Without the ban, an estimated eight trillion plastic microbeads pollute U.S. waterways each day, threatening the environment and ultimately our health. My bill is a commonsense, bipartisan solution to this little-known but serious problem. Scientists have found evidence of microbeads in numerous bodies of water in the United States, including increasingly in the Great Lakes, the worlds largest source of freshwater. In addition to contributing to the buildup of plastic pollution in waterways, microbeads can be mistaken by fish and other organisms as food. If consumed by fish, the chemicals found in synthetic plastic microbeads can then be passed on to other wildlife and humans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z