Russia, Election Commission, Immigration, Women, Trade, SAFE Act, Disabilities, Shooting, Soil, Nominations, Precision Medicine, USAF, Budget, Veterans

News from the Lawmakers

Sarbanes Statement on Mueller Indictments of Russian Nationals for 2016 Election Meddling
John P. Sarbanes (D-MD, 3rd)
February 16, 2018
Democracy Reform Task Force Chair Rep. John Sarbanes (D-Md.) released the following statement today after special counsel Robert S. Mueller III charged 13 Russian nationals and 3 Russian companies with conspiracy for illegally using social media to spread discord among the American public and to support Donald Trump’s campaign while maligning Hillary Clinton’s campaign:

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Sarbanes Joins Bipartisan Group Calling on President Trump to Immediately Fill Vacant Seats on Federal Election Commission
John P. Sarbanes (D-MD, 3rd)
February 16, 2018
"Our nation needs an effective watchdog to respond in real-time, enforce our nation’s election laws, and provide guidance to incumbents and challengers as they navigate our federal election laws,” the Members wrote. “That is why we urge you to promptly nominate replacements for former Commissioner Ann Ravel and Commissioner Lee Goodman and to fill any further vacancies on the Commission without delay."

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Scalise Urges Support for Goodlatte-McCaul Immigration Bill, Reflects on Personal Experience Enduring Shooting Attack on The Ingraham Angle
Steve Scalise (R-LA, 1st)
February 16, 2018
House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Fox News Channel's The Ingraham Angle last night to discuss his efforts to whip support in the House for the Goodlatte-McCaul immigration bill. In light of this week's tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Whip Scalise also reflected on his own experiences of being a target of a shooting attack.

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Schakowsky Reintroduces the International Violence Against Women Act
Jan Schakowsky (D-IL, 9th)
February 16, 2018
Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Chief Deputy Whip and member of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, released the following statement after reintroducing H.R. 5034, the International Violence Against Women Act:

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Sensenbrenner Leads Delegation-Wide Effort Asking for Local Business Support
James F. Sensenbrenner (R-WI, 5th)
February 16, 2018
Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (WI-05), along with all other members of the Wisconsin Congressional delegation, sent a letter of support to Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross regarding an effort to combat imbalanced trade incentives and protect jobs in Wisconsin. Specifically, the request was made by the Port of Milwaukee on behalf of Quad/Graphics, which employs 7,700 Wisconsin residents and is headquartered in Wisconsin’s Fifth Congressional District.

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Congressman Sires’ Statement on the Indictment of Russian Individuals and Entities for Election Interference
Albio Sires (D-NJ, 8th)
February 16, 2018
“Today’s indictment is further proof of Putin’s continued attempts to undermine the integrity of our democracy. My colleagues and I in Congress have repeatedly urged the Trump Administration to stand up to Russia and take action to defend ourselves from these acts. Bipartisan legislation I supported to sanction Russian actors was signed into law by President Trump himself yet he refuses to enforce it. The President continues to ignore the will of Congress and the American people to sanction those individuals responsible for undermining our democracy. These are attacks on the foundation of our country and protecting against future intrusions should be our number one priority. In the wake of this indictment, it is essential that Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation be allowed to continue unhindered so that we can discover the full extent of Russian interference and hold those responsible fully accountable for their actions. ”

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Rep. Stivers Applauds R+L Carriers’ Announcement of Bonuses up to $1,000 for all Employees
Steve Stivers (R-OH, 15th)
February 16, 2018
On Monday, Wilmington-based global transportation company R+L Carriers announced that it would be issuing bonuses of up to $1,000 for all of its employees, citing the economic benefits from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

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Sasse Statement on Mueller Indictment
Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE)
February 16, 2018
“Mueller just put Moscow on notice. This ought to be a wakeup call to Washington: Putin’s shadow war is aimed at undermining Americans’ trust in our institutions. We know Russia is coming back in 2018 and 2020 – we have to take this threat seriously.”

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Shaheen Statement on Mueller Indictment of Russian Nationals and Entities for Meddling in 2016 Elections
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D - NH)
February 16, 2018
“Russia clearly interfered in our elections and this indictment paints a very disturbing picture as to some of the methods the Kremlin used,” said Shaheen. “This indictment further underscores the need to protect Special Counsel Mueller’s investigation from political interference from the White House and partisan members of Congress. This should not be a partisan issue. We have a duty to come together, both Republicans and Democrats, to support efforts to follow the facts and take aggressive action to defend our democracy.”

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Stivers' SAFE Transitional License Act Passes House
Steve Stivers (R-OH, 15th)
February 15, 2018
This week, the SAFE Transitional License Act, introduced by Congressman Steve Stivers (R-OH), passed the House of Representatives as part of a package of bills from the Financial Services Committee (H.R. 3978). This bill changes the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act (SAFE) by providing regulatory relief for loan originators in an effort to make a smooth employment transition between bank and non-bank entities. Representatives Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) and Bruce Poliquin (R-ME) joined as cosponsors of this bipartisan legislation.

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Schakowsky defends the Americans with Disabilities Act
Jan Schakowsky (D-IL, 9th)
February 15, 2018
Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Chief Deputy Whip, spoke on the House floor to oppose H.R. 620, the so-called “ADA Education and Reform act of 2017”, a bill that would severely weaken the Americans with Disabilities Act and roll back decades of progress for people living with disabilities.

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Rep. Sewell Statement on Parkland School Shooting
Terri A. Sewell (D-AL, 7th)
February 15, 2018
“My heart goes out to the victims, their families, and to the Parkland community. Our schools should be places where our children are loved, where they learn, and where they are kept safe. When classrooms are turned into crime scenes, when our students and teachers are terrorized by guns, something has gone horribly wrong. This is not the first school shooting our nation has witnessed, it is not the second, it is the 239th school shooting since the Sandy Hook massacre. There is an epidemic of gun violence in America, and every day Congress fails to address this epidemic, more students, more teachers, more parents and brothers and sisters are killed.”

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Shea-Porter Stands with Disability Rights Groups Against Legislation to Undermine the Americans with Disabilities Act
Carol Shea Porter (D NH, 1st)
February 15, 2018
“The Americans with Disabilities Act protects millions of people from discrimination. It is disturbing that Speaker Ryan continues to use his majority to attack the civil rights of people with disabilities after spending half of last year trying to undermine their health care. H.R.620, if passed by the Senate, would place the burden of complying with the Americans with Disability Act on the victims of discrimination rather than the entities that are in violation of the law. I will continue to stand with hundreds of disability rights organizations against these misguided policies.”

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VIDEO: Shea-Porter Blasts Republican Leadership for Inaction on Gun Violence
Carol Shea Porter (D NH, 1st)
February 15, 2018
Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) spoke on the House floor in support of common sense solutions to reduce gun violence. She directly called on Speaker Ryan to end his obstruction and bring bipartisan gun violence prevention legislation to the floor for a vote.

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Congressman Sires’ Statement on the Shooting in Parkland, Florida
Albio Sires (D-NJ, 8th)
February 15, 2018
“My heart breaks for the victims of yesterday’s shooting and for their families and friends. 17 innocent lives were lost in yet another senseless act of violence. The community of Parkland, Florida has been struck by an unimaginable tragedy and my sincerest condolences go out to all those affected and I will continue to hold them in my thoughts as they grieve. I would also like to thank the brave first responders as well as the teachers and faculty who risked their lives to protect the students they teach every day.

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Pro-Choice Caucus Leaders Call on Secretary Azar to Fire Director Lloyd Due to His Ongoing, Blatant Disregard for Women’s Constitutional Rights
Louise Slaughter (D-NY, 25th)
February 15, 2018
After revelations today by the Washington Post about continued unlawful behavior by Director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement Scott Lloyd, who has ignored the constitution and federal rules regarding women’s rights and reproductive health, the co-chairs of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, Congresswomen Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Louise Slaughter (D-NY), called on Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar to fire him.

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REP. SOTO STATEMENT ON PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL SHOOTING
Darren Soto (D-FL, 9th)
February 15, 2018
There is a photograph in Bill Kelly’s room in the Claremont Center nursing home. It’s of him, wearing a Manasquan High School football uniform, on Thanksgiving 1942.

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BOST, SOTO INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO IMPROVE SOIL QUALITY
Darren Soto (D-FL, 9th)
February 15, 2018
Representative Mike Bost (R-IL) and Representative Darren Soto (FL-09) introduced bipartisan legislation, the Nutrient Management Technical Service Provider Certification Act, to expand options for agriculture producers to access nutrient management technical assistance. This bill would allow qualified individuals, including Certified Crop Advisors or Certified Agronomists, to act as Technical Service Providers for nutrient management.

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Reps. Speier, Takano, and McGovern Calls For Review of John Kelly’s Role in Overseeing Personnel Misconduct
Jackie Speier (D-CA, 14th)
February 15, 2018
Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-14), Ranking Member on the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel, was joined by Congressmen Mark Takano (CA-41) and James McGovern (MA-2) yesterday in writing a letter to Defense Secretary James Mattis requesting information related to General John Kelly’s handling of complaints against personnel under his command.

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Sanders Statement on Rounds-King Immigration Bill
Senator Bernard Sanders (I - VT)
February 15, 2018
"With an extremely anti-immigrant president in office who precipitated the current DACA crisis, I fear very much about the fate of 800,000 Dreamers who will soon be losing their legal protections under DACA and be subject to deportation.

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Sasse Statement on Kelly Nomination
Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE)
February 15, 2018
“Joe Kelly’s next career calling is to the benefit of Nebraskans across our state. Throughout his nomination process Joe showed that Nebraskans will continue to be well served by his commitment to honesty, humility, and the law.”

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Shaheen Statement Following Senate Vote on Bipartisan Immigration Agreement
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D - NH)
February 15, 2018
“The agreement we voted on was the product of good faith bipartisan discussions and would have allowed Dreamers a pathway to citizenship so that they no longer have to live in fear of deportation,” said Shaheen. “I’m disappointed that, because of President Trump’s erratic and inconsistent positions on this issue, this agreement did not receive enough support to move forward in the Senate. It’s critically important that the Senate provide a pathway forward to protect Dreamers which is why I’ll continue my efforts across the aisle to find common ground.”

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Swalwell Introduces Bipartisan Advancing Access to Precision Medicine Act
Eric Swalwell (D-CA, 15th)
February 14, 2018
“It’s time to use technology to transform our health care system to focus on the uniqueness of every patient – this is the future of medicine,” Swalwell said. “Genetic and genomic testing technology is getting better every day. We’re working in a bipartisan way to look ahead for ways to make it more accessible to Americans, in order to improve and save lives.”

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Sarbanes Statement on School Shooting in Parkland, Florida
John P. Sarbanes (D-MD, 3rd)
February 14, 2018
“It's not enough to send thoughts and prayers to the grieving families. We must do more. Sadly, Congressional leaders refuse to bring even the most minimal commonsense gun safety measures to the floor of the House or Senate. But we cannot be silent. In sober memory of the thousands who have been victimized by gun violence, we will keep fighting for a meaningful response to this terrible epidemic.”

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ICYMI: Rep. Austin Scott to USAF: It was a mistake to cancel the F-22, it was a mistake to try to cancel the A-10, and it would be a mistake to cancel JSTARS
Austin Scott (R-GA, 8th)
February 14, 2018
During a House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Readiness Subcommittee hearing entitled, “Air Force Readiness Posture,” Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) questioned Lieutenant General Mark C. Nowland, United States Air Force (USAF) Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, on USAF’s decision to divest three E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) Battle Management and Command and Control Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (BMC2/ISR) platforms in its Fiscal Year 2019 budget proposal.

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Rep. Sewell Questions HHS Secretary Azar on Trump Budget
Terri A. Sewell (D-AL, 7th)
February 14, 2018
On Wednesday, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar appeared before the House Ways and Means Committee to testify about the White House budget request for HHS. The President’s budget cuts Medicare by $500 billion, Medicaid by $1.3 trillion, and renews the failed Republican attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act, raising health costs and taking health coverage away from millions of Americans. Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL), who sits on the Ways and Means Committee, asked Secretary Azar about the impact of these cuts on rural hospitals.

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Shea-Porter Statement on School Shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida
Carol Shea Porter (D NH, 1st)
February 14, 2018
“I am once again horrified and sickened by yet another massacre at an American school. This is at least the 18th school shooting this year. I am praying for the victims and their families. Parents and students should never have to endure such awful tragedies. And yet, they keep happening. Every single week. This cannot continue—we need common sense laws to reduce gun violence. It’s the least we can do for all of the victims and their grieving families, friends, and communities.”

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Sinema Passes Bill to Cut Red Tape, Help Arizona Companies Making Life-Saving Breakthroughs
Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ, 9th)
February 14, 2018
Congresswoman Kyrsten Sinema (AZ-09) and Congressman Trey Hollingsworth (IN-09) passed the Fostering Innovation Act through the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation provides commonsense regulatory relief for companies on the cutting edge of scientific and medical research, allowing them to save lives and bring more high-tech, high-wage jobs to Arizona.

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Senator Stabenow Hosts Michigan Veteran to Share Perspective on the Importance of the Farmer Veterans Programs in the Farm Bill
Senator Debbie Stabenow - (D - MI)
February 14, 2018
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) hosted Nick Babcock, President of the Farmer Veteran Coalition of Michigan, to share his story as a farmer veteran and discuss the importance of incentives in the Farm Bill with Senators and leaders of the veteran community. Babcock was one of seven veteran leaders from across the country that participated in the discussion hosted by Senators.

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The Ponder

Housing, Shooting, Opioid, Medicaid, Retirement, Tax Reform, White House Security, Dreamers, Farmers, China, Budget, STEM, Infrastructure, Veterans, North Korea

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News from the Lawmakers

Reed Lauds Independent Effort by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director to Preserve Needed Funding Program for Affordable Rental Housing
Senator Jack Reed (D - RI)
February 14, 2018
I thank the Federal Housing Finance Agency for exercising its independent authority pursuant to the 2008 Housing and Economic Recovery Act to continue funding the Housing Trust Fund and Capital Magnet Fund.

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Rubio Statement on Broward County School Shooting
Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL)
February 14, 2018
“A mass shooting at one of Florida’s schools is a day you pray will never come. Jeanette and I are devastated and saddened by today’s inexplicable tragedy at Broward County’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. We join millions of Americans in praying for the victims, their families and all the students and teachers impacted by today’s events. We are grateful to the emergency responders, law enforcement officials, nurses and doctors who assisted the victims of today’s tragedy. Over the next few hours and days we will learn more about why and how this killer carried out this carnage. My office and I remain ready to assist state and local officials and anyone impacted by this horrible tragedy.”

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RASKIN, NADLER LEAD JUDICIARY DEMOCRATS IN DEMANDING REAL HEARINGS ON OPIOID CRISIS
Jamie Raskin (D-MD, 8th)
February 14, 2018
Ahead of House Judiciary Republicans’ politically divisive Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee hearing entitled “The Effect of Sanctuary City Policies on the Ability to Combat the Opioid Epidemic,” House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Vice Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and eight other House Judiciary Democrats sent a letter to Chairman Bob Goodlatte, urging him to hold a real hearing to appropriately examine the ongoing opioid epidemic in America.

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REP. RASKIN URGES TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO RECONSIDER UNLAWFUL MEDICAID WORK REQUIREMENTS
Jamie Raskin (D-MD, 8th)
February 14, 2018
Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) sent a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Alex Azar today expressing his opposition to the Trump Administration’s actions that will allow, for the first time in the history of the Medicaid program, a work requirement as a condition of coverage. Rep. Raskin is deeply concerned that linking health coverage to a work requirement will undermine access to health care, and contradict the plain text and purpose of the law. Raskin joined 172 members on the letter to Azar.

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Roe, Norcross Introduce Bipartisan GROW Act to Give Retirement Options to Workers
Phil Roe (R-TN, 1st)
February 14, 2018
The bipartisan GROW Act will safeguard the multiemployer pension plan system by authorizing the creation of a new type of retirement option that combines the key features of defined benefit and defined contribution plans.

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Report from Washington: Bigger Paychecks and Bonuses Across East Alabama
Mike Rogers (R-AL, 3rd)
February 14, 2018
After over 30 years of working under an outdated tax code, local businesses and folks across East Alabama and the entire country, are feeling the benefits of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

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Rokita Introduces CRUMBS Act, Maximizing Tax Reform Bonuses
Todd Rokita (R-IN, 4th)
February 14, 2018
Congressman Todd Rokita introduced the "Creating Real and Useful Middle-Class Benefits and Savings" (CRUMBS) Act to make bonuses received in 2018 tax-free up to $2,500 to help lower and middle-class families. The legislation follows the passage of President Trump's tax reform, which has led to millions of Americans receiving bonuses, pay raises, and increased benefits.

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RUPPERSBERGER QUESTIONS DNI ON WHITE HOUSE SECURITY CLEARANCES
Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD, 2nd)
February 14, 2018
Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger today questioned why advisers to President Trump without full security clearances have been given access to highly classified documents. The former Ranking Member of the House Intelligence Committee and Member of the Gang of Eight sent a letter to Director Of National Intelligence Dan Coats to get answers.

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Reed: Trump Broke Protections for Dreamers, Time for U.S. Senate to Fix It
Senator Jack Reed (D - RI)
February 13, 2018
U.S. Senator Jack Reed is urging his Senate colleagues to come together and pass the bipartisan DREAM Act, which would allow young immigrants who have worked, studied, and served in the Armed Forces to earn lawful permanent residence and provide them with a path to American citizenship. These young people, known as Dreamers, were brought here through no fault of their own, have lived in America since they were children, built their lives here, and are American in every way except for their immigration status.

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Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act Introduced in the Senate
Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD)
February 13, 2018
U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, along with seven of his Senate colleagues introduced the Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act. The bipartisan bill would protect farmers, ranchers and livestock markets from burdensome Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reporting requirements for animal waste emissions. These requirements were not intended to affect animal agriculture and instead were meant to address dangerous industrial pollution, chemical plant explosions and the release of hazardous materials into the environment.

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VIDEO: Rubio Raises Concerns About the Growing Threat Posed by China
Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL)
February 13, 2018
At a Senate Select Committee on Intelligence hearing today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) highlighted the threat posed by China’s growing influence, including their long-term multi-faceted strategy to supplant the United States internationally, and raised these concerns with Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Dan Coats and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Michael Wray.

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House Passes Reichert Bill to Bring Tariff Relief to American Businesses
David G. Reichert (R-WA, 8th)
February 13, 2018
Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) led debate on the House floor on H.R. 4979, a bill to extend the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and to make technical changes to the competitive need limitations provisions of the program. The bill passed the House by a vote of 400-2.

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Reichert Statement on President's FY 2019 Budget
David G. Reichert (R-WA, 8th)
February 13, 2018
“I am pleased that the President’s budget request highlights the need to strengthen our military, meet our nation’s infrastructure needs, address our national parks’ maintenance backlog, conduct life-saving medical research at the National Institutes of Health, and fight the opioid crisis," said Rep. Reichert.

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ROSEN’S BIPARTISAN STEM BILLS PASS THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Jacky Rosen (D-NV, 3rd)
February 13, 2018
Congresswoman Jacky Rosen (NV-03) announced that two bipartisan bills she introduced this Congress to improve STEM education unanimously passed the House of Representatives as one combined bill. The Building Blocks of STEM Act, H.R. 3397, directs the National Science Foundation to more equitably allocate funding for research in the Discovery Research PreK-12 (DRK-12) program to studies with a focus on early childhood. The Code Like a Girl Act, H.R. 3316, creates two National Science Foundation grants to research and fund computer science programs that encourage early childhood education in STEM for girls under the age of 11. The combined bill is now awaiting action in the U.S. Senate.

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RUPPERSBERGER, HULTGREN INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE LEGISLATION
Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD, 2nd)
February 13, 2018
U.S. Representatives Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger and Randy Hultgren introduced legislation to help state and local governments take advantage of low interest rates to build essential infrastructure projects. The bill restores the tax exemption for advance refunding bonds that was repealed by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed by Congress in December.

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Reed Warns President Trump’s Budget Would Be a Major Disaster for American People & U.S. Economy
Senator Jack Reed (D - RI)
February 12, 2018
This budget blueprint is a disaster. The Trump Administration is using the same phony accounting it did when it claimed that a $1.5 trillion tax bill would pay for itself or that Mexico would pay to build a border wall.

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Senators Urge VA to Reimburse Veterans for Their Emergency Treatment Claims Before Recent Court Decision
Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD)
February 12, 2018
U.S. Sens. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, along with 11 of his Senate colleagues, today sent a letter to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary David Shulkin to request that the VA reimburse veterans who were billed for emergency treatment at private hospitals.

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Rubio Statement on Trump Administration's Budget, Infrastructure Proposals
Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL)
February 12, 2018
"While it is Congress that funds the nation’s policy priorities, I am encouraged to see the President’s budget also support efforts to strengthen border security, combat the opioid epidemic, rebuild our military and improve health services for veterans.

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QUIGLEY STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP'S FISCAL YEAR 2019 BUDGET
Mike Quigley (D-IL, 5th)
February 12, 2018
President Trump’s Fiscal Year 2019 budget proposal is as ludicrous as it is disturbing. After drastically increasing our unsustainable debt by adding $1.5 trillion in unpaid tax cuts for the wealthy, the president is doubling down on failed, far-right policies that slash Medicare, Medicaid, and a number of anti-poverty programs for the most vulnerable amongst us. With at least a half trillion in proposed cuts to Medicare and $250 billion stolen from Medicaid, President Trump has yet again turned his back on hardworking Americans and his dishonest pledge to preserve entitlement programs.

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Rep. Rice Statement on President Trump’s Infrastructure Plan
Tom Rice (R-SC, 7th)
February 12, 2018
In 1991, Congress designated I-73 as a high priority project. This morning, President Trump released his infrastructure framework that I believe will finally get this project off the ground. President Trump called on Congress to draft a comprehensive infrastructure bill that will stimulate at least $1.5 trillion in new investment over the next 10 years, shorten the process for approving projects, address unmet rural infrastructure needs, empower State and local authorities, and train the American workforce of the future. There are too many regulatory barriers preventing essential infrastructure projects from moving forward, a prime example being I-73. The permitting process for I-73 began in 2004, and due to the inefficient environmental review process we just received permits over the summer. I stand ready to work on legislation that will cut through this red tape and unleash economic prosperity through critical infrastructure investment. Delivering on the Administration’s legislative framework will help build a stronger America, and I intend to take this opportunity to invest in a stronger South Carolina.

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Rogers: Liberal Media Elite Glamorizing North Korea
Mike Rogers (R-AL, 3rd)
February 12, 2018
“What the liberal media elite like CNN and The New York Times has done is sickening to me. Her brother Kim Jong-un is a murderer and his regime in its brutality forces its people to live a Stone Age existence. He threatens the world with nuclear war, starves the people in his own country and tortured American student Otto Warmbier to the point that he passed away once he was returned to the United States. Kim Yo Jong is not only a part of that cruel family, but is a part of the brutal regime. Nothing should be romanticized about her as she is an enemy,” Rogers said.

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Congressman Rogers' Statement on President Trump's Proposed Budget for 2019
Harold Rogers (R-KY, 5th)
February 12, 2018
"President Trump’s proposed budget compliments the diligent work of the Bipartisan Budget Act, calling for much-needed boosts to funding for our nation’s military, border security, infrastructure, rural broadband expansion and efforts to combat the nation’s deadly opioid epidemic.

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ROSEN: TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S BUDGET PROPOSAL FAILS NEVADA’S WORKING FAMILIES
Jacky Rosen (D-NV, 3rd)
February 12, 2018
“Instead of investing in Nevada’s working families, this irresponsible and harmful budget proposal leaves them behind by slashing Medicaid and making deep cuts to Medicare and Social Security, all while adding trillions to our national deficit,” said Rosen. “This budget would rob hundreds of millions from the Southern Nevada Public Lands Management Act program, which helps fund our state’s education system, water authority, and projects that protect and maintain our public lands. It eliminates key programs, such as BrandUSA and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which play a vital role supporting Nevada’s economic growth. This budget would also waste millions in taxpayer dollars to try to revive Yucca Mountain, a dangerous and reckless project that would turn Nevada into a dumping ground for nuclear waste. I will continue to fight against this Administration’s efforts to dump nuclear waste in Nevada and work across the aisle on a spending plan that supports our state’s priorities and lifts up working families.”

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Rep. Roybal-Allard Statement on Homeland Security Budget
Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA, 40th)
February 12, 2018
“While I support some elements of the DHS budget request, I have strong objections to this budget’s significant increase in funding for interior immigration enforcement. Democrats will not support the continuation of ICE’s aggressive enforcement actions that have increasingly led to the arrest of individuals who pose no threat to our country or our communities, and who have called the United States home for many years or even decades. We should not be tearing these individuals away from their families and their communities. Furthermore, I believe any discussion of border security funding should be part of a larger discussion that includes protections for Dreamers and Temporary Protected Status recipients.”

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Congressman Tim Ryan Statement on President Trump's Budget Proposal
Tim Ryan (D-OH, 13th)
February 12, 2018
“Until just days ago, a Republican Congress and a Republican President spent the first four months of this fiscal year stumbling through five temporary funding bills, utterly failing the most basic duty of Congress – keeping the government open. The idea that the current majority party in the House could follow through on anything even resembling regular order as it relates to setting a budget for the Federal Government is laughable. The only function the President’s budget proposal serves is to remind us how completely out of whack his priorities are for the American people. He would add over $7 trillion dollars to the national deficit over the next decade -- $984 billion in the next year alone, and stick the middle class with the bill. It is a non-starter. I stand ready to get to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on a realistic budget that properly funds our defense and important programs families rely on,” said Congressman Ryan.

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Budget, Infrastructure, Nominations

Statements from the Lawmakers

On the Continuing Resolution

Senator Rand Paul (R - KY)
February 9, 2018

"Tonight, you could feel the frustration and embarrassment growing in Congress as we exposed the hypocrisy of Republicans who are joining in an unholy alliance and spending free-for-all with Democrats at the expense of the American people and our party's supposed principles. Make no mistake, I will always stand up for fiscal responsibility, regardless of which party is in power, and I will continue to call the Republican Party home to the ideas that led to Americans trusting us with government in the first place."

Pete Olson (R-TX, 22nd)
February 9, 2018

“This funding for disasters like Hurricane Harvey, which happened last August, is long overdue and critically needed. In passing this funding, Congress took an important step in to helping Texans impacted by this devastating storm recover. I want to thank my Texas colleagues and our House and Senate leadership for getting this desperately needed funding across the finish line.”

Jimmy Panetta (D-CA, 20th)
February 9, 2018

"We cannot keep governing from manufactured crisis to manufactured crisis. Right now, our constituents expect us to find common ground on a sensible solution that responsibly funds our government and protects Dreamers. Between this bill, which adds over $300 billion to the nation’s credit card, and the unpaid-for tax law, which will add billions more, Congress has now voted to add over $1 trillion to the federal deficit in just under two months. While focusing on these irresponsible plans, the Speaker of the House, unlike the Senate Majority Leader, has refused to take any action or even commit to have a fair and open debate on legislation for our Dreamers. This is not responsible governing. Republicans and Democrats must sit down and negotiate in order to pass legislation that advances the priorities of all Americans today and for future generations. This bill does not meet the values that we share on the central coast of California."

Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 9th)
February 9, 2018

“While disgusted with the incompetence and chaos with which the Republicans have governed, I voted in favor of this bipartisan, long-term budget agreement because of the hard-fought priorities within it that give our communities, servicemembers, and businesses the assurance they need that the federal resources they rely on will not run out,” said Rep. Pascrell. “This deal isn’t perfect, but it puts us on the path to responsible governing. This bill addressed critical needs for the next two years like improving our seniors’ healthcare, assisting at-risk mothers, supporting community health centers, investing in aging infrastructure, funding for the opioid and mental health epidemics, and helping the recovery and rebuilding in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

“I am mad as hell at Speaker Ryan for continually holding our Dreamers hostage to the extreme right wing of his party. This is not an issue of Right vs. Left but simply Right vs. Wrong. As time ticks towards the deadline President Trump cruelly imposed, I continue to demand Speaker Ryan put his money where his mouth is and bring the Dream Act or a bipartisan deal to the floor for a vote immediately. Dreamers are part of the fabric of our communities and embody what makes America great. Too many live in fear of being torn from their friends and families because President Trump pulled the rug out from under them and Republican leadership in Congress has failed to act. It is long past time for Congress to schedule a vote so we can act on the promise we made to them when the Dreamers came out of the shadows in good faith.”

Steve Pearce (R-NM, 2nd)
February 9, 2018

“Any piece of legislation that suspends the debt limit is simply an excuse for Congress and the government to spend at will, without regard for the consequences down the road. Just as businesses and families have a borrowing limit on their credit card, so does the federal government. By suspending the debt limit through the end of 2018, Congress is granting the government a blank check.

I did not support giving President George W. Bush a blank check. I did not support it under President Barack Obama. And I will not support it under President Donald Trump.

For this reason, I could not in good conscience vote for the fifth continuing resolution, which also sets a misguided budget for the next two years. Earlier this year, the House passed all 12 appropriations bills on time, the Senate has still refused to debate and vote on a single one. Instead of doing our job, Congress is acting without a thought-out plan. We must ensure our nation’s military has the tools and training it needs to succeed, and we have to help our fellow man in times of great need. But, we cannot be reckless.”

Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
February 9, 2018

"Republicans control the House, Senate, and Executive branch, but their inability to govern has put our country’s priorities—from military spending to the opioid crisis—in limbo for the past nine months and a fifth continuing resolution is just more of the same. I could not in good conscience vote for a bill that underfunds key programs after this Republican-controlled Congress just passed a trillion dollar tax cut for corporations.

"President Trump and Republicans in Congress tied the fate of 800,000 young Dreamers to this budget bill as a cruel bargaining chip. In less than a month, thousands of teenagers and young adults who know no other country than this will face deportation because of a crisis created by President Trump. We know the bipartisan DREAM Act has the votes to pass and for months I’ve called on Speaker Ryan to bring it to the House floor, but he’s refused and stirred a frightening uncertainty in communities nationwide. I refuse to engage in this kind of immoral negotiation which has caused so many Americans to lose faith in Washington."

Stacy Plaskett (D-Virgin Islands, At-Large)
February 9, 2018

“Early this morning, members of Congress approved a 2 year budget package that funds government and provides critical disaster relief to the hurricane affected areas including the U.S. Virgin Islands. This funding comes after long protracted discussion and substantial negotiation in both the Senate and the House. Our office is grateful for the work that Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) engaged in on our behalf with Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and the support of Governor Mapp and his team to make this happen.

“While the funding does not include the full amount or all of requests of the Virgin Islands it will help us substantially in the rebuilding efforts. We worked very hard to see that the Virgin Islands be provided with additional Medicaid funding for the territory’s urgent health needs. The islands are provided with $142 million in additional funds through September 2019, with a 100% federal match for these new funds. The measure also provides the Virgin Islands with five years of significant additional funding through a higher rate of rum excise tax revenue paid to the Virgin Islands treasury – at $13.25 per proof gallon (from $10.50).

Congresswoman Plaskett cautions the Virgin Islands government and its people that this advancement in our rebuilding needs to be taken in context with last month’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Bill. “We must be aware that the new tax laws are likely to have the unintended consequence of providing a disincentive to companies operating in the Virgin Islands due to foreign tax treatment. Additionally, there will be lost revenue to the General Fund due to reduction in individual tax brackets, along with the lack of reimbursement to the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit. Tax experts predict that those losses can range from a hundred million to hundreds of millions of dollars each tax year.”

Bruce Poliquin (R-MN, 2nd)
February 9, 2018

“As an original cosponsor and strong supporter of a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution, I have long advocated for our government to get our spending under control and for the budget process in Congress to operate the way it should, instead of floating from one temporary funding bill to the next,” said Congressman Poliquin. “But the alternative right now—shutting down the government and continuing to deprive our men and women in uniform of critically needed support—would harm Maine and would harm America.

“We must fund the government, we must fully fund our military and support our shipbuilders at BIW, we must support the fight against the horrific opioid crisis in Maine, and we must make sure our rural communities continue to have access to health care providers. It’s important for Maine that this bill passes.

“I call on all my colleagues who are concerned about spending to join me in supporting a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution to ensure a financially sustainable future for our Nation. In my first week as a member of Congress in 2015, I became an original cosponsor of the Balanced Budget Amendment to our Constitution. It is more critical now than ever before to get our spending under control and I am appreciative that so many in Congress are now finally concerned about this serious problem.”

Bill Posey (R-FL, 8th)
February 9, 2018

“The budget process is clearly broken. The House of Representatives passed all of its appropriations bills in September. Yet, even with last month’s short-term extension, the Senate still won’t act to bring those bills to a vote. Each continuing resolution is an admission of failure to do the job right. Waiting for the eleventh hour to consider a short-term, must pass funding bill is no way to run the government. It’s unfair to American families, workers and our children and grandchildren who will inherit these important issues that Washington refuses to deal with today.”

David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 9, 2018

“The bipartisan budget agreement reached by Senate leaders this week is a long-awaited step to address a number of outstanding funding priorities. It fulfills the fundamental obligation of Congress to keep the government open and paves the way for the delayed passage of our twelve appropriations bills. For too long, Congress has lurched from crisis to crisis, passing short-term spending patches but failing to address the sequestration-level spending caps that hobble economic investments, threaten our national security, and make realistic budgeting impossible.

In addition to making dollar for dollar increases in the defense and non-defense budgets above sequestration levels, this agreement contains much-needed relief for millions of families still recovering from natural disasters—including $125 million for ongoing Hurricane Matthew recovery efforts in North Carolina. It also reaffirms our commitment to fight the opioid crisis, secures billions to improve our nation’s infrastructure, and makes critical investments in our nation’s veterans, healthcare, and education programs.

Unfortunately, Republican leadership in the House has done nothing to advance bipartisan legislation to protect the hundreds of thousands of Dreamers facing uncertainty thanks to President Trump. His decision to rescind the DACA program, and then blow up the bipartisan proposal to fix the problem that he created, forced Dreamers squarely in the middle of the shutdown battle. What’s worse, the President has yet to learn his lesson, just this week calling for another government shutdown to advance his mass-deportation agenda.

My colleagues in the Senate have received assurances by Majority Leader McConnell of an imminent vote that includes DACA, but Speaker Ryan has continued to cater to the extreme wings of his caucus, lacking the political courage to put legislation on the floor. His promise to only put a bill on the floor that President Trump publicly supports is particularly disgraceful. No Speaker should yield our legislative prerogative to the President, particularly this President on this issue. Without assurances in the House similar to those given in the Senate, I cannot vote to support this budget package and let Republican leadership once again kowtow to a President who believes his power cannot be checked.”

On Trump's Budget Proposal

Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ, 1st)
February 12, 2018

“The budget proposed today by the Trump Administration would hurt rural communities, veterans, and seniors,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “Rural America needs more tools, not less, to be a part of the economic recovery and create new jobs. This budget slashes the few tools that rural communities depend on to develop, attract, and retain a strong workforce and good jobs. This budget breaks a promise to Rural America, by making jobs, affordable education, and health care harder to access for working families.”

The budget proposal eliminates or reduces the following programs:

The Rural Business and Cooperative Service

The Economic Development Administration

The Manufacturing Extension Partnership

Community Development Block Grants

Rural Water and Wastewater Grants

Indian Community Development Block Grant

Rural Economic Development Program

Essential Air Service, critical to businesses in rural communities

Reimbursement for rural health care providers

Native American Housing Block Grants

Medicare and Medicaid

Veterans programs and services

“We must work together in a bipartisan way to ensure every American has the opportunity to compete for good jobs in the 21st century and that we keep our promises to our seniors and veterans."

Steve Pearce (R-NM, 2nd)
February 13, 2018

“It is imperative that we come together to establish a balanced and sustainable budget. The American people deserve certainty. Creating ten-year spending projects with the goal of reducing our crushing debt and deficit is critical to the future success of our nation.

There is much to be encouraged by in this request. The White House remains committed to rebuilding our nation’s military and defenses, it continues to prioritize the reduction of burdensome and duplicative regulations, it supports New Mexico’s federal facilities, and it strives to make a real dent in our nation’s ever-growing debts.

At the same time, this proposal is not perfect. There are several areas of the proposal that will need to be examined in greater depth to ensure that, as a nation, we are taking appropriate steps to solving our nation’s budget crisis, while also meeting our commitments to the American people. Keep in mind, however, the President’s budget proposal today is just that – a suggestion of priorities for Congress to consider while establishing the spending plan for the upcoming year. I look forward to building off the proposal put out by the President today, and working with my colleagues in Congress in setting a course that will protect and support our New Mexico communities.”

Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
February 12, 2018

"President Trump’s budget proposal spells disaster for rural states like Maine and demonstrates how out of touch his Administration is with the needs of the country. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’ll fight the Trump Administration’s proposal to eliminate so many programs critical to Maine, including low-income heating assistance, Community Development Block Grants, and rural air service. And I will work to ensure his proposals to decimate the ACA, Medicaid, and Medicare, while jeopardizing food assistance for families, do not move forward. With a nearly 30 percent cut to essential non-defense discretionary programs coming after a huge corporate tax cut, President Trump has sent a statement to working Americans that their needs aren’t even on his radar."

Mark Pocan (D-WI, 2nd)
February 12, 2018

“The Trump Administration’s budget is an attack on the very Americans President Trump promised to serve and it undermines the values we share as a nation. Rather than support an economy that strengthens the middle class, the promise of a safe and secure retirement, and the idea that every American should have access to lifesaving care, the Trump budget attacks programs that everyday Americans rely upon. We should make critical investments in health, education, and workforce development for the American people, not gut resources that allow millions of hardworking Americans to get ahead.

“From dangerous cuts to Medicare and Social Security, to slashing funding for education, housing, and workforce training and protection programs, the Trump budget will have serious consequences for American families. And while Republicans will hide behind the same old talking points of fiscal responsibility and hard choices, it is clear that President Trump and Republicans are engaging in a coordinated effort to further enrich the wealthy at the expense of the middle class. For months, President Trump advocated for massive tax breaks for the wealthy and corporations, and today’s budget further reflects that he is not working in the interests of the middle class, workers, students, seniors, and the poor.”

Bruce Poliquin (R-MN, 2nd)
February 12, 2018

“I am very appreciative that members of both parties are now finally expressing concerns about our government’s spending,” said Congressman Poliquin. “I call on all my colleagues who are concerned about spending to join me in supporting a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution to ensure a financially sustainable future for our Nation. It is more critical now than ever before to get our spending under control and I am appreciative that so many in Congress are now finally concerned about this serious problem.

“As I begin reviewing the details of the White House’s budget request, I’m pleased it demonstrates our Nation’s commitment to strengthening national security and making sure our Armed Forces have the support they need.

“In addition, the White House has clearly signaled that infrastructure investment will be a primary focus in the coming year. Maine is third in the nation for needed infrastructure improvements, as many families, communities and small businesses in our State know too well. From needed roads and bridges repairs to critically important development in broadband access, there is a lot of work to be done for Maine on this front that I will be pushing for in the upcoming budget process.

“As I have said before, we must make sure we maintain support for programs and agencies that that serve our families and communities and help protect our environment. Specifically, I remain strongly supportive of funding for programs such as LIHEAP, which provides critical support for our Maine families in winter; Community Development Block Grants, which support multiple local programs in our State such as ‘Meals-on-Wheels’; and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, delivering family programming and also serving an important role with its emergency alert system; among others. As Congress begins its work in the coming months on the federal budget, I will continue to push for continued support for these and other programs and agencies that do good for Maine families.

“I remain concerned about drastic reductions in support for important environmental programs, policies and services, such as:

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and their specific sea grants

Funding for Acadia National Park

Maintaining clean drinking water infrastructure and waste water infrastructure

Superfund

Maine Healthy Beaches Program

National Estuary Program, and

Continued lead remediation efforts in Maine

“One of the most important things Congress must focus on in the coming months is completing the budget process the way it is supposed to be done: passing our appropriations bills in the House and the Senate and working together to reduce spending and make spending adjustments where they are needed. The House got this done last year and I am hopeful all of my colleagues in both chambers can get it done in the coming months.

“As I continue to review the White House’s request, I remain focused on working across the aisle to protect Seniors’ earned Social Security benefits, growing Maine jobs, fighting illegal trade, standing up for our Veterans, combating the opioid epidemic, and working every day for our Maine families.”

David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 12, 2018

“After blowing up our nation’s debt with a $1.5 trillion tax cut for the wealthy, the Trump administration is determined to further undermine our nation’s middle class and stifle upward mobility – this time by attempting to gut critical economic investments, Medicare and Medicaid, and other human capital programs to pay for a foolhardy $18 billion border wall that the American public continues to oppose. Our nation’s budget is a moral document, and the Trump budget is further evidence of a morally bankrupt Administration.”

On Trump's Infrastructure Plan

Senator David Perdue (R-GA)
February 12, 2018

“When he was elected, President Trump said job one was growing the economy. In 2017, he focused on reducing regulations, unleashing our energy potential, and cutting taxes. In 2018, President Trump wants to move to immigration, trade, and infrastructure. He is now beginning to rebuild our nation’s infrastructure. We need a smart approach to prioritize and leverage significant economic development projects like they do in the real world. We need to streamline federal, state, and local cooperation and remove regulatory roadblocks so we can get the greatest return on investment for taxpayers. In Georgia, we saw this approach in action when the I-85 bridge collapsed and was repaired a month ahead of schedule. We need to replicate that efficiency on a larger scale so we can increase productivity and ultimately update our nation’s infrastructure network to support additional growth.”

Senator Rob Portman (R - OH)
February 12, 2018

“The president’s infrastructure proposal is a good starting point for discussion and I’m hopeful both parties will work together on this issue. By rebuilding our aging infrastructure and improving job training programs targeted toward in-demand infrastructure-related jobs, we have a great opportunity to further strengthen our economy. I am also glad to see the administration is making infrastructure permitting reform a priority. I’ve led efforts in the Senate to streamline our permitting process, working to enact FAST-41 so we can rebuild our infrastructure more quickly. With a permitting process that makes sense and operates efficiently, we can put more people back to work, improve our infrastructure, and better protect the environment. I look forward to working with the administration and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to develop legislation on these issues in the coming months.”

Portman has led efforts in Washington to streamline the federal permitting process. Recently, the Trump administration has begun to use the tools authorized by Portman’s Federal Permitting Improvement Act, which helps streamline the federal infrastructure permitting process to boost our economy and create jobs. The bill was enacted into law last Congress as Title 41 of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41). Two weeks ago, the Trump Administration and the state of Louisiana entered into the first memorandum of understanding between the federal government and a state to facilitate the infrastructure permitting process for a project covered by this new law. FAST-41 requires that one agency serve as the lead agency for covered projects; all agencies involved in covered projects develop a coordinated permitting timeline at the start of the process; and agencies post the permitting timeline and updates to it on an online Permitting Dashboard throughout the permitting process for each covered project. Last September, Portman chaired a Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) hearing on how permitting reform, like FAST-41, will create good-paying jobs across the country.

Steve Pearce (R-NM, 2nd)
February 13, 2018

“As a state vastly comprised of rural communities, we understand just how important infrastructure projects are to improve the livelihoods of people, families, and businesses in our State. It is vital for the safety and productivity of New Mexico that Congress looks to reform how we currently fund and complete infrastructure projects. New Mexico will greatly benefit from any positive improvements to infrastructure. At the same time, our nation faces extreme budget pressures. Any plan must be one that can work to improve and modernize the nation’s infrastructure without driving the United States into further debt. I look forward to working with the Administration and my colleagues in Congress to making the essential reforms to the nation’s infrastructure projects that will benefit New Mexico.”

Nancy Pelosi (D-CA, 12th)
February 12, 2018

“The budget is a statement of our values, but the President’s brutal collection of broken promises and staggering cuts shows he does not value the future of seniors, children and working families. After robbing from our children’s futures to enrich corporations and the wealthiest with the GOP tax scam, the White House budget is purpose-built to compound the cruelty. The President’s tired insistence on ripping away the promise of quality, affordable health care and his cruel focus on slashing vital investments in families’ economic security will dangerously hollow out our nation’s strength.

“After a full year of empty boasts, the President has finally unveiled a puny infrastructure scam that fully fails to meet the need in America’s communities. The Trump plan is to raise tolls on commuters, increase the burden on cities and states, sell our essential infrastructure to the whims of Wall Street, and yank away the protections that keep consumers safe and our air and water clean. At the same time, the Trump budget actually slashes billions of dollars from infrastructure investments that prevent deadly floods, connect rural communities, and create good-paying jobs across the country.

“Democrats are offering A Better Deal to Rebuild America: our bold, truly transformative $1 trillion plan to rebuild America’s broken infrastructure. Five times bigger than the Trump plan, Democrats’ agenda will create more than 16 million good-paying American jobs, unlock the economic potential of every community and bring money into the Treasury. While the White House and Republicans in Congress shamefully try to weaken the pillars of our national strength, Democrats will continue to fight for better futures for American families.”

Mark Pocan (D-WI, 2nd)
February 12, 2018

“Reading scripted remarks and tweeting out vague promises to invest our country will not build roads and bridges – it takes public dollars to do that. Americans deserve a serious public commitment to rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, but under the Trump Administration’s plan, communities across Wisconsin won’t get the resources we need. With a comparatively paltry investment from the federal government over ten years – less than one-tenth of 1% of GDP – and no dedicated funding for rural broadband, the Administration’s plan falls far short in resources, leaving many communities behind.

“The reality is that President Trump’s plan is nothing more than an attempt to sell off public resources to Wall Street, to members of Mar-a-Lago, and to foreign investors. We need a real, comprehensive public investment that goes beyond traditional infrastructure, and covers not just our roads and bridges, but our water systems, broadband, and clean, renewable energy, as the Progressive Caucus has put forward in our 21st Century New Deal for Jobs. We need a serious plan and funding commitment that prioritizes communities most in need and creates the millions of good-paying jobs, not more empty promises.”

David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 12, 2018

“Throughout his campaign and his first year in office, President Trump made countless promises to put forward a bold plan to put Americans to work repairing and modernizing our crumbling public infrastructure. In contrast to the many issues that divided Democrats and Republicans during the last election, infrastructure stood out as an area of common ground and potential bipartisan cooperation.

Unfortunately, the President’s infrastructure plan neither makes good on his promise nor reflects any attempt at bipartisan compromise. The proposal calls for $1.5 trillion in new investment, but it shifts the overwhelming majority of the costs to states and municipalities, forcing them either to raise taxes or to sell off public assets to private investors. The President’s budget, which was released on the same day, seeks to slash existing infrastructure programs to pay for new federal investment and to gut longstanding environmental protections and labor laws that protect workers on federal projects. This is more than just a mixed message: it is an abdication of the federal government’s role as an equal partner in major public infrastructure investments, and another giveaway to private investors and corporate polluters.

The President’s plan is fundamentally flawed, but I hope it jumpstarts a constructive, bipartisan debate about how best to meet our nation’s infrastructure needs. As the Ranking Member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, I look forward to participating in this debate and advocating for sustained federal investments in our roads, bridges, railways, transit systems, housing stock, and broadband networks. Democrats have put forward a $1 trillion plan that would revitalize our crumbling infrastructure and create more than 16 million high-quality jobs. If President Trump is serious about delivering on his promise, I encourage him and our Republican colleagues to ensure that any infrastructure legislation includes these ideas.”

On the Nominations of Eric Tostrud, Nancy Brasel to U.S. District Court of Minnesota

Erik Paulsen (R-MN, 3rd)
February 12, 2018

“Minnesotans will be reassured that they will be represented by two sound, reasoned, and experienced legal minds on the federal bench.

“Eric Tostrud’s temperament, intelligence, and firm grasp and expertise on a wide range of complex issues will make him an exceptional judge. Judge Nancy Brasel’s experience as a federal prosecutor and Hennepin County District Court judge will serve her well in her new role.”

On Trump Administration Proposed USDA Budget

Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
February 12, 2018

Rural America deserves a better budget. By cutting essential programs for rural businesses, housing, and more, this proposal severely weakens USDA Rural Development’s ability to support rural communities. I also have many questions about the Administration's alarming SNAP proposal, which would terminate SNAP nutrition education and make it harder for recipients to access a wide variety of healthy foods.

I am concerned by how farmers would fare under the proposed budget due to the reductions in funding for important conservation programs and farm loans. And while I am glad to see a funding increase for the National Organic Program to improve enforcement of the organic label, I’m troubled by the way this budget simultaneously suggests cutting other programs that support two of the fastest-growing agricultural markets—organic and local food.

In so many ways, this proposed budget for USDA—with its nearly 25 percent cut to discretionary programs—looks much like the damaging plan that the Administration put forth last year. Thankfully, the House Appropriations Committee worked in a bipartisan way to restore much of that funding in legislation it passed through the Committee last year, and I am optimistic we can do so again.

News from the Lawmakers

Trump Administration continues support of Pittenger national security efforts
Robert Pittenger (R-NC, 9th)
February 12, 2018
The Trump Administration continued strong support for two of Congressman Robert Pittenger’s signature national security efforts: strengthening review of foreign investments that threaten national security, and targeting sources of terrorism financing.

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Pittenger: Samaritan's Purse VP "perfect choice" for U.N. role
Robert Pittenger (R-NC, 9th)
February 12, 2018
Ken Isaacs has dedicated his life to serving the least, the forgotten, and the unwanted. He has served survivors of the Rwandan genocide, assisted Syrian refugees, and led relief efforts in dozens of countries including Liberia, Somalia, Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

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ICYMI: Reps. Price and Lowenthal Lead Effort to Promote Sustainability in Infrastructure
David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 13, 2018
Yesterday, the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) released its Sustainable Infrastructure Proposal, led by Representatives David Price (D-NC) and Alan Lowenthal (D-CA). The document serves as a blueprint for smart, environmentally sustainable infrastructure investment. The proposal stands in stark contrast to the recently released Trump Administration infrastructure plan that eviscerates core environmental safeguards, fails to meaningfully incorporate forward-looking sustainability and resiliency initiatives, and falls far short of the robust direct federal investment necessary to rebuild our crumbling infrastructure. The vast majority of Americans know that we can build and modernize infrastructure while keeping environment and public health protections in place. They expect us to do both, and that is what SEEC’s proposal is all about.

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Budget, Tariffs, Heart, Disaster Aid

News from the Lawmakers

Rep. Nadler Statement on Vote Against Senate Budget Deal
Jerrold Nadler (D-NY, 10th)
February 9, 2018
"Early this morning, I voted no on the short term spending bill and the budget deal because Speaker Ryan failed to make a sufficient commitment to bring up a bipartisan bill to protect Dreamers from deportation. The bill Congress passed a few hours ago included several Democratic priorities about which I care deeply, including parity in lifting the budget caps and an extension of the debt limit, funding for Community Health Centers and CHIP, and long overdue disaster aid for Puerto Rico and others.

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Neal, Pascrell Introduce Bipartisan Tariff Relief Legislation to Support American Workers and U.S. Economic Competitiveness
Richard E. Neal (D-MA, 1st)
February 8, 2018
Ways and Means Ranking Member Richard Neal (D-MA) and Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) introduced H.R. 4979, bipartisan legislation that renews the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program for three years. The United States’ oldest and largest trade preference program, GSP provides targeted tariff relief while supporting American workers and businesses.

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Newhouse Statement on No Vote for Budget Package
Dan Newhouse (R WA, 4th)
February 8, 2018
“The legislation that was agreed to in the House and the Senate essentially writes a blank check to enable the federal government to continue to accumulate debt. I have been a vocal proponent of addressing the federal government’s out-of-control spending, and as the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff warned, our growing debt is the greatest threat to our national security. We must find ways to rein in our national debt,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The people of the 4th Congressional District demand better and expect their representatives to promote fiscal responsibility, not advance policies that borrow over $1 million a minute.

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Noem: Know Your Heart
Kristi Noem (R-South Dakota)
February 9, 2018
Never underestimate the power of your story. Earlier this year, Aletha Maki visited our Washington, D.C., office from Rapid City. Her granddaughter had been diagnosed with high cholesterol at age two, a condition brought on, the family learned, by a genetic disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia (or FH). Once diagnosed, the disease is manageable. But 90 percent of those with FH are unaware, and therefore, go untreated.

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Norcross Condemns Shutdown, Funding Fiasco, Trumpocracy
Donald Norcross (D-NJ, 1st)
February 9, 2018
“Americans want and deserve higher wages, great schools, safe neighborhoods and a secure nation. Instead, they’re getting Trumpocracy.

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Senate passes $90 billion disaster aid package
Senator Bill Nelson (D - FL)
February 9, 2018
The U.S. Senate today approved a massive two-year government spending bill that includes, among other things, $89.3 billion in disaster assistance to help areas, such as Florida and Puerto Rico, recover from the devastating 2017 hurricanes.

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John Kelly, Banking, South Korea and Budget

News from the Lawmakers

MCCOLLUM CALLS FOR TRUMP TO FIRE WHITE HOUSE CHIEF OF STAFF JOHN KELLY

Betty McCollum (D-MN, 4th)
“President Donald Trump’s comments today defending White House Staff Secretary Rob Porter demonstrate that the Trump-Pence White House is an environment that lacks any shred of decency and is completely at odds with the values of the American people, especially the women of this country. With his outspoken endorsement and support of accused child molester Roy Moore and now his sympathetic defense of a violent domestic abuser, it is clear that President Trump is willing to excuse the vilest forms of abuse.

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Rep. Meeks and 32 House Democrats Urge Federal Banking Agencies to Strengthen Community Reinvestment Act Rules

Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY, 5th)
Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05) led 32 other House Democrats, including members of the House Financial Services Committee, on a letter (below) to Secretary of the Treasury Steven T. Mnuchin and Comptroller of the Currency Joseph M. Otting. The letter urges the administration to prioritize the interests of underserved communities as they update federal regulations under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA).

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Meng Cosponsors Resolution to Recognize Growth and Contributions of South Korea

Grace Meng (D-NY, 6th)
With the Winter Olympics kicking off in Pyeongchang this week, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced today that she has cosponsored a bipartisan resolution (H.Res.707) that seeks to recognize the growth and transformation of South Korea, and its significant contributions to the international community.

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Statements from Newsmakers for Today

Kevin McCarthy (R-CA, 23rd)

“This has been a difficult year in our state as wildfires took more lives, burned more homes, and destroyed more communities than any of us would have imagined. Not only must we rebuild, we must also do everything in our power to make our communities even more resilient after these disasters. For months, the House has fought for disaster relief for California, and I was honored to work with my bipartisan California colleagues and pass legislation to help those affected by wildfires last December. Today, that relief has finally passed the House and Senate and will soon be signed into law by the President.

“Whether it’s for those who faced wildfires in Southern or Northern California this past year, this legislation makes sure that victims of California’s wildfires are treated exactly the same as people who faced natural disasters in states like Texas and Florida. We’ve also enacted tax relief for wildfire victims and expanded Stafford Act disaster assistance programs to include religious entities like churches, which are usually among the first on the ground helping people and saving lives.

“I am glad both sides of the political aisle came together to deliver this relief for the people of California. From Representatives Mike Thompson and Jared Huffman to Ken Calvert, Jeff Denham and Mimi Walters, we put our partisan differences aside to help our state. Though it is deeply disappointing that House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi voted against this disaster funding, we will keep working together to help the people of California get back on their feet and build stronger for the future.”

Michael T. McCaul (R-TX, 10th)

“I was proud to cast my vote today to keep our government open and fund our military. Holding this critical funding for our troops hostage is reckless and unacceptable. In fact, our Secretary of Defense James Mattis has said, “no enemy in the field has done more to harm the readiness of the U.S. military than the [military cuts we experienced under President Obama].” Thankfully, today, Congress passed a budget agreement to end the harmful sequester so we can provide assurances to our brave men and women in uniform and rebuild our military capabilities and readiness.

“This package also provides $89.3 billion in long-delayed and much needed disaster relief funding for those affected by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. The House passed legislation last December to provide those still struggling to rebuild their lives with the resources they need, but it is has been stalled in the Senate. With this bill, Texas and other impacted areas will finally receive significant federal help to rebuild, including $17.39 billion in Army Corp funding to help build our flood mitigation projects and prevent future flood disasters.

“Since day one, I have been working tirelessly to provide federal assistance to those affected by Hurricane Harvey. I am glad to see our budget agreement pass today to provide serious relief to Texans in need. We must continue to put the safety and security of the American people above all else.”

Tom McClintock (R-CA, 4th)

NO. This measure abandons any pretense of fiscal responsibility and increases federal spending caps by nearly $300 billion ($2,400 per household) over the next two years. It sets up a structure that will allow Congress to bypass its own budget rules and extends a laundry list of subsidies and special-interest tax breaks. It also suspends the debt limit for a year, for obvious reasons. It has a few silver linings: it repeals IPAB (Obamacare’s rationing board), gives the Pentagon predictable funding for the next two years and provides disaster relief.

Congress approved a massive tax reduction with my support in December. It is essential for economic growth and is already having a dramatic positive effect on wages and business expansion. However, having cut taxes, Congress has a keen responsibility to restrain spending growth – a responsibility it repudiates with this measure.

Taxes and debt are both driven by spending. Indeed, they are the same thing. Once we have spent a dollar, we’ve already decided to tax it: the only question is whether we tax it now, or borrow it now and tax it in the future. But borrowing also has serious implications for the present: government borrows from the same capital pool that would otherwise be available to loan for consumer and home purchases and business expansion. A lack of fiscal restraint now undermines the economic growth we have achieved with the tax cuts.

Interest rates are already rising, and economists warn that a sharp increase in deficits could cause markets to charge even higher rates for federal borrowing. A one percent increase in interest rates would add $200 billion to our ANNUAL borrowing costs, dwarfing the few cost-savings reforms we’ve managed to enact and threatening a debt spiral that would end in a sovereign debt crisis.

A. Donald McEachin (D VA, 4th)

“Early this morning, as I voted I was genuinely conflicted. I felt I was left no satisfactory option with the budget deal put before the House of Representatives.

“I was pleased to see that this bill created overdue investments in important services and programs that will help my constituents – and millions of other hardworking Americans. I am pleased to see rural health programs and other very needed domestic plans pass. However, I had made a commitment to DREAMers who are still left without a resolution. These young people were brought to this country as children and have contributed to the economy and betterment of our communities.

“The DACA program has wide bipartisan support, and we were only in this impossible situation because the Speaker refuses to bring a clean DACA bill to the Floor. I call on the Speaker to bring the DACA program up for a clean vote, not as part of an immigration bill that must have the President's stamp of approval before we can even discuss or debate. I believe in the important programs in last night's bill, but I also believe we owe these young people to stand by our word.”

Patrick T. McHenry (R-NC, 10th)

"In the last decade we’ve seen the growth of radical Islamic terrorism and the continued rise of anti-American regimes in Russia and North Korea. Yet—as the world has become an increasingly dangerous place—we’ve failed to properly provide for our military. With passage of this budget agreement, we’ve begun to change that.

“General Mattis made clear the increased defense funding in this package is necessary to repair our military and ensure our troops have the resources they need. By passing this budget agreement we are standing with President Trump and fulfilling our shared commitment to strengthening our military and keeping Americans safe.”

Martha McSally (R-AZ, 2nd)

“Today I voted with President Trump and Secretary Mattis to halt sequestration and increase defense spending. My vote is for our men and women in uniform who are relying on this boost in defense resources to carry out their mission and to keep us safe. Eight years’ worth of anemic defense budgets and neglect under President Obama’s defense sequester have thrown our military into a full-blown readiness crisis—and Secretary Mattis has made it very clear that, unless we pass a budget and fund the troops they will not have the resources to maintain their operations and deter war. That’s why, from the outset, I demanded that this bill include $700 billion this year and $716 billion next year for our troops to fulfill our military’s request—and it does.

This bill also dismantles another pillar of Obamacare: The ‘Independent Payment Advisory Board’—also known as the Death Panels and tasked with rationing Medicare.

We cannot hold our military hostage while we tackle other long-term spending and move towards fiscal responsibility. This landmark increase in defense spending will finally start to give our troops what they need to keep us safe.”

Mark Meadows (R-NC, 11th)

“Congress failed to get its fiscal house in order by passing a Budget Agreement that raises the Budget Control Caps by $300 billion, suspends the debt ceiling, and extends several other expensive spending provisions. For months, several of my colleagues and I urged Congressional leadership to work toward a long-term, responsible budget that gives our armed forces the funding and stability they deserve. I voted several times in the past year to honor that promise to our service members. And unfortunately, while this Budget Agreement provides a needed investment in our nation’s military, that investment comes with a heavy burden that our children and grandchildren will be strapped with.

I want to fund our military, but at what cost? Should we bankrupt our country in the process? Estimates suggest this bill will likely increase government spending by $1.5 trillion. This is not budgeting. I’m profoundly disappointed.

When I ran for Congress, I promised the people of Western North Carolina that I would fight to rein in Washington’s addiction to spending. This budget fails to do that. This doesn’t represent the promise I gave to my voters, and I suspect it isn’t what many of my colleagues promised their constituents, either.

At some point, Washington has to get serious about stopping this before it’s too late. I’m very disappointed in today’s result, but I maintain my commitment to fighting for the kind of fiscal responsibility that can sustain our country for decades to come. And I’m committed to fighting for the day when we will do better.”

Gwen Moore (D-WI, 4th)

“After scrambling in utter chaos to end their second shutdown in a month, the Republican majority passed a budget agreement in the early hours of this morning. This bill paves the way for an omnibus spending bill, funds community health centers, disaster relief, the opioid epidemic, veterans, and rural broadband. Although Democrats have long fought for the inclusion of these provisions in this bill, at the end of the day, it simply wasn’t enough to overlook what was excluded.

“As I contemplated how to cast my vote today, I thought of the strength and courage of Wisconsin DREAMers like Valeria Ruiz Lira and Alejandra Gonzalez. Like many DREAMers, Valeria and Alejandra have called the United States home for most of their lives. Yet, they – as well as hundreds of thousands across the country – have been forced to live in a constant state of uncertainty as congressional Republicans embrace President Trump’s bigoted policies and deny our DREAMers of their basic humanity. Despite such hateful opposition, these young men and women remain resolute. They are undocumented and unafraid. And as long as I’m in Congress, I’ll make sure they’re not alone in this fight.

“Speaker Ryan’s continued failure to step up and schedule a vote to protect DREAMers is nothing short of shameful. As the March 5 deadline to pass permanent protections for DREAMers approaches, I will continue to fight for a DACA deal with great force and conviction. Democrats have worked hard to put American families first at every turn. Now, it is time for Republicans to follow suit and remember the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who taught us, ‘The time is always right to do what’s right.’”

Seth Moulton (D-MA, 6th)

“Budgeting month to month and governing crisis to crisis is no way to run anything, let alone the United States of America. Republican leadership, if you can even call it that right now, is an embarrassment. America is better than this.

“I voted against this deal because it shortchanged all the things we should be coming together, as both Democrats and Republicans, to accomplish for the people we represent. Rather than play politics with funding our government, pitting one group against another, we should make strong investments in our future.

“A good deal supports our economy. Just look at the reaction of the stock market over the past week as Republicans careened towards another shutdown. Of course most Americans don’t have stocks, but rely on all the other investments we make: in education, health care, and in our local communities, especially after natural disasters. These things must be adequately funded.

“A good deal supports our troops. As general after general has told us, short-term deals hobble our Pentagon planners and endanger our military. Only with a predictable budget, that is adequately funded, can we make the investments in our troops and technology to meet the latest threats.

“A good deal invests in our future. At times like this, most talk focuses on government spending. But equally important is the other half of the equation because we ultimately can’t pay our troops, pay our Medicare bills, and invest in our future without the funds to do so. This is why the Republican tax cut for the rich is so dangerous for us all: it triples the deficit. And we can’t afford that. This deal makes it even worse.

“And don’t sell America short–don’t think for a second that we can’t do these things and also take care of DREAMers, whom overwhelming majorities of Americans want to support. These innocent kids grew up in America, only know this country, and deserve some certainty for their futures. They serve in our military and are our kids’ friends in school. They, too, deserve a chance at the American Dream.

“Yesterday, even Secretary Mattis, President Trump’s own Secretary of Defense, came out in support of DREAMers in our military, promising they won’t get deported. If someone inside the Trump Administration can stand strong, so should we. What Democrats are asking from Speaker Ryan is so simple: Just do your job and allow the House of Representatives to vote on an immigration plan. Vote how you want, but give us that chance. Give these innocent kids that chance. It’s the very least we should do.

“For all these reasons, I voted against this inadequate deal. And for all these reasons, I’m working hard to bring new leadership to Washington. We can do better, and I feel confident that if this deal had failed, we would have moved closer to addressing the many challenges our nation faces. That is our job.”

Markwayne Mullin (R-OK, 2nd)

“Early this morning, the House passed a budget agreement to continue government operations and most importantly, end the ill effects of an underfunded military due to years of sequestration,” Mullin said. “I voted in favor of the measure—not because I liked everything that was in the bill—but because I could not turn my back on our men and women in uniform. Our President and Commander in Chief and General Mattis asked me and my colleagues to vote for the bill. Due to the uncertainty around the world and our national security risks, it is our duty to fully support our troops who are protecting all of our rights. The vote that I cast this morning reflects my unwavering commitment to support the men and women of our armed forces who put their lives on the line to protect ours.”

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Background on the Bipartisan Budget Act courtesy of House Speaker Paul Ryan (WI-01) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (KY):

This agreement will unwind the sequestration cuts that have hamstrung America’s armed forces and jeopardized our national security by funding the military at this year’s National Defense Authorization Act levels.

It breaks the spending “parity” demanded for years by Democrats by giving defense a larger funding increase than non-defense discretionary spending. Compared to current law spending caps, the agreement increases defense discretionary funding by $80 billion in Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 and $85 billion in FY 2019 vs. an increase in non-defense domestic discretionary of $63 billion in FY 2018 and $68 billion in FY 2019.

This agreement provides for America’s veterans by helping reduce the maintenance backlog at the Veterans Administration.
It also provides almost $90 billion in emergency supplemental appropriations for disaster relief efforts for communities crippled by hurricanes in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Florida and Texas.

This agreement includes $6 billion over two years to bolster the ongoing fight against opioid addiction and substance abuse by funding grants, prevention programs, and law enforcement efforts in vulnerable communities across the country.

The agreement includes a $20 billion new investment in America’s infrastructure—a bipartisan priority shared by the President and lawmakers in both parties.

The agreement lifts the debt limit through March 1, 2019.

It includes structural reforms to Medicare and cuts to Obamacare, and repeals the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) from Obamacare.

It includes an extension of funding for Community Health Centers.
This agreement includes an extension of tax relief provisions that are supported by Republicans and Democrats.

It includes $2 billion in funding over two years for the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

It establishes two committees to address pension and budget/appropriations reform.

Continuing Resolution & Disaster Supplemental:

The agreement includes a Continuing Resolution (CR) that funds the government at current levels through March 23, 2018 in order for the Appropriations Committees to negotiate detailed appropriations and deliver full funding for the remainder of FY 2018, and begin the process for FY 2019.

The legislation also contains almost $90 billion in emergency supplemental appropriations to help states, communities, businesses, and individuals respond and recover from recent hurricanes, wildfires and other disasters. Within in this funding, $4.9 billion is provided to increase Medicaid caps for Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands for two years, along with program requirements.

Tax & Health Care Policies:

The agreement includes a one-year extension of critical tax provisions that help families, individuals and small businesses across the country. These provisions expired at the end of 2016.

It includes an additional four years of authorization for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
The measure also includes a package of bipartisan Medicare provisions, known as Medicare extenders, and funding for community health centers.