Source: Warren Davidson (R-OH, 8th)
Washington, D.C. - October 14, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Rep Warren Davidson released the following statement concerning his “NO” vote on the $36.5 billion Disaster Relief Supplemental, which included a $16 billion dollar bailout provision for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), a program already roughly $25 billion in debt.
“I fully support the families of Puerto Rico, California, and all those affected by the destructive force of these recent hurricanes and wildfires, but lumping a bailout provision to disaster relief efforts is different. I can't support a bailout for an unreformed program that wildly spends America down a path to bankruptcy. In its current state, the NFIP is an example of a Washington, D.C., band-aid fix to a gaping financial problem which saddles Ohioans and others with billions in debt. We should wholeheartedly respond to help families affected by these natural disasters, but we need to do so responsibly and with a free market approach and make hard choices when we have to.”
The bill, the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act, which passed the House 353-69 under suspension of the House rules spends five times more than was initially requested for efforts that fall outside disaster relief and included provisions like bailing out the NFIP.
The House Financial Services Committee that Rep. Warren Davidson is a member of included provisions to reform the NFIP, but were not included in the disaster relief and NFIP bailout bill. These reforms included provisions such as spending caps, debt reduction planning, and allowing private companies to compete alongside government run flood insurance.
Read more about this:
House Passes Storm Aid With Puerto Rico, Flood Coverage Lifeline
The Unpopular Truth
Showing posts with label Flood Insurance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Flood Insurance. Show all posts
Saturday, October 14, 2017
Friday, September 1, 2017
After Harvey, the Trump administration reconsiders flood rules it just rolled back
Source: The Washington Post
A couple of weeks ago President Trump scrapped Obama-era rules, intended to reduce the risks posed by flooding, that established new construction standards for roads, housing and other infrastructure projects that receive federal dollars.
Trump derided these restrictions, which were written in response to growing concerns over the impact of climate change, and other federal rules as useless red tape holding back the economy.
A couple of weeks ago President Trump scrapped Obama-era rules, intended to reduce the risks posed by flooding, that established new construction standards for roads, housing and other infrastructure projects that receive federal dollars.
Trump derided these restrictions, which were written in response to growing concerns over the impact of climate change, and other federal rules as useless red tape holding back the economy.
Read more...
Saturday, June 24, 2017
Trump’s putdown of wind energy whips up a backlash in Iowa (And more...)
Trump’s putdown of wind energy whips up a backlash in Iowa
Council Bluffs Nonpareil
June 22, 2017
President Trump’s putdown of wind energy at his Iowa rally was denounced Thursday across the state, which takes pride in its position as a national leader in wind generation.
Read more...
Total solar eclipse 1st in 99 years to sweep width of US
Creston:News Advertiser
June 23, 2017
Total solar eclipses occur every year or two or three, often in the middle of nowhere like the South Pacific or Antarctic. What makes this one so special — at least for Americans — is that it will cut diagonally across the entire United States.
Read more...
Nursing home workers still posting vulgar photos of residents on Snapchat
Des Moines:Register
June 23, 2017
Six incidents were in Iowa, which has put a greater focus on identifying such cases. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, has called upon Snapchat and other social media companies to do more to stop the problem.
Read more...
Pipeline court case continues
Ft. Dodge:Messenger
June 23, 2017
The Sierra Club on June 15 filed a motion to revoke Dakota Access’s permit in Iowa, in light of a federal judge’s ruling that the Army Corps of Engineers didn’t adequately consider some matters important to the Standing Rock Sioux when issuing the national permit.
Read more...
Statement on Flood Insurance Reform Bills
Alex Mooney (R-WV, 2nd)
June 23, 2017
The 21st Century Flood Reform Act embraces free market reforms that will allow the private sector to give consumers real insurance choices and will get the program back on sound financial footing.
Read more...
Neal Statement on Senate GOP Health Care Bill
Richard E. Neal (D-MA, 1st)
June 22, 2017
“Republican Senators have taken an already ‘mean’ bill and made it even meaner. Despite seven years of promises, the Senate Republicans’ health care plan would not lower costs, would not provide health and financial security to working families, and would not help solve ongoing public health crises, like the opioid epidemic. This heartless bill would instead shift more of the financial burden of health care onto the backs of middle class families, while at the same time dramatically slash important programs, like Medicare and Medicaid, that seniors and working people depend upon. By crafting this partisan plan in secrecy, far from the view of the American public, and presenting it today without so much as a single public hearing, it’s clear that Senate Republicans learned nothing from the ‘go-it-alone’ strategy that Republicans used in the House. It’s disheartening that Senate Republicans didn’t seize this opportunity to sit down with Democrats, their own colleagues and, most importantly, their constituents to engage in good faith discussions on ways to further improve our health care system in a manner that continues to bring down costs, cover more people and expand important consumer protections.”
Read more...
Noem: USDA's Opening of CRP Acres Gives Ranchers Needed Options
Kristi Noem (R-South Dakota)
June 23, 2017
Rep. Kristi Noem issued the following statement after the USDA announced it would open South Dakota CRP acres for grazing in areas categorized as D2 (severe drought) or D3 (extreme drought) until September 30, 2017. The announcement came after a personal request from Noem to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to grant additional flexibility.
Read more...
Nunes Statement on Passage of Healthcare Bill
REP. O’HALLERAN AND 22 ARMED SERVICES DEMOCRATS INTRODUCE BILL TO BOOST UNITY AND DETERRENCE AGAINST RUSSIAN AGGRESSION
Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ, 1st)
June 23, 2017
“There can be no mistake, Russia’s blatant disregard for international agreements and treaties must be countered with strength on the international stage,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “I am proud to support legislation that strengthens our commitment to the collective defense of our allies. We must take action to end to this encroaching aggression and prevent future attempts to weaken our democracy, or the democratic process in countries around the world.”
Read more...
President Signs Blunt-Backed Bill to Increase Accountability at the VA
Senator Roy Blunt - (R - MO)
June 23, 2017
U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.) released the following statement after President Trump signed into law the Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. The bipartisan legislation, which Blunt cosponsored, reforms the Department of Veterans Affairs by making it easier for the secretary to hold employees accountable for misconduct or poor performance, and ensuring appropriate due process protections for whistleblowers.
Read more...
Boozman Applauds Signing of VA Reforms into Law
Roe Statement on President Signing VA Accountability Bill into Law
Amid Reports that Trump Will Break Promise to Get Tough on Drug Pricing, Booker, Franken, Lawmakers Urge Trump to Act on Solutions that Bring Down Prescription Drug Costs
Senator Cory A. Booker (D-NJ)
June 23, 2017
With news reports indicating the White House is on the verge of issuing an executive order devoid of policies that would meaningfully reduce prescription drug prices, breaking yet another key promise to Americans, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) and other Senate and House Democrats to urge President Donald Trump to act on solutions that truly reduce the rising cost of prescription drugs.
Read more...
Brown Vows to Keep Up Bipartisan Efforts to Protect Great Lakes Following Asian Carp Sighting
Senator Sherrod Brown- (D - OH)
June 23, 2017
“It’s clear: now is not the time to take away the tools that help us protect our Great Lakes,” said Brown. “Between this carp sighting and news that the Lake’s health is declining, it is a bad week for our Great Lakes. We’ve got to double down on our efforts to protect Lake Erie and the jobs it supports. That means staying vigilant and standing strong in bipartisan opposition to the elimination of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative proposed by the Administration.”
Read more...
Senate Intel Committee to Hold Open Hearing Next Week on Russian Intervention in European Elections
Senator Richard Burr - (R - NC)
June 23, 2017
Senator Richard Burr (R-NC), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, announced that the Committee will hold an open hearing on June 28, 2017 to examine Russia’s interference in recent and future European elections. The witnesses will address Russian activities in the French and Montenegrin elections and look forward to Germany’s fall election. This will be the latest in a series of open hearings to provide for the American people further context and understanding of Russian efforts to undermine democratic institutions at home and abroad.
Read more...
SBC Examines How to Bring Broadband to Rural America
House Committee on Small Business
June 22, 2017
Members of the House Small Business Subcommittee on Agriculture, Energy, and Trade heard from a group of experts in the first of a series of hearings addressing the rural broadband deployment efforts small telecommunications companies are undergoing in rural America. Witnesses also discussed the potential for policy changes at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and what the FCC has done to help or hinder broadband deployment.
Read more...
Judicial Watch Asks Trump Administration to End Congressional Obamacare Exemption
Judicial Watch
June 23, 2017
The ACA requires states to create at least two exchanges: a small business exchange (referred to as “SHOP” in the ACA) and an individual exchange. It also requires certain members of Congress and congressional employees to purchase insurance on an exchange created either by their state of residence (or by the District, if they are a D.C. resident) or by the federal government, if their state of residence did not establish an exchange. 42 U.S.C. § 18032(d)(3)(D)(i). Because the ACA limits the purchase of insurance on a small business exchange to employees of small businesses – and Congress is not a small business – the ACA unequivocally requires that certain members of Congress and congressional employees purchase insurance on an individual exchange created either by their state of residence (or by the District, if they are a D.C. resident) or by the federal government for that state.
Read more...
Council Bluffs Nonpareil
June 22, 2017
President Trump’s putdown of wind energy at his Iowa rally was denounced Thursday across the state, which takes pride in its position as a national leader in wind generation.
Read more...
Total solar eclipse 1st in 99 years to sweep width of US
Creston:News Advertiser
June 23, 2017
Total solar eclipses occur every year or two or three, often in the middle of nowhere like the South Pacific or Antarctic. What makes this one so special — at least for Americans — is that it will cut diagonally across the entire United States.
Read more...
Nursing home workers still posting vulgar photos of residents on Snapchat
Des Moines:Register
June 23, 2017
Six incidents were in Iowa, which has put a greater focus on identifying such cases. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, has called upon Snapchat and other social media companies to do more to stop the problem.
Read more...
Pipeline court case continues
Ft. Dodge:Messenger
June 23, 2017
The Sierra Club on June 15 filed a motion to revoke Dakota Access’s permit in Iowa, in light of a federal judge’s ruling that the Army Corps of Engineers didn’t adequately consider some matters important to the Standing Rock Sioux when issuing the national permit.
Read more...
Statement on Flood Insurance Reform Bills
Alex Mooney (R-WV, 2nd)
June 23, 2017
The 21st Century Flood Reform Act embraces free market reforms that will allow the private sector to give consumers real insurance choices and will get the program back on sound financial footing.
Read more...
Neal Statement on Senate GOP Health Care Bill
Richard E. Neal (D-MA, 1st)
June 22, 2017
“Republican Senators have taken an already ‘mean’ bill and made it even meaner. Despite seven years of promises, the Senate Republicans’ health care plan would not lower costs, would not provide health and financial security to working families, and would not help solve ongoing public health crises, like the opioid epidemic. This heartless bill would instead shift more of the financial burden of health care onto the backs of middle class families, while at the same time dramatically slash important programs, like Medicare and Medicaid, that seniors and working people depend upon. By crafting this partisan plan in secrecy, far from the view of the American public, and presenting it today without so much as a single public hearing, it’s clear that Senate Republicans learned nothing from the ‘go-it-alone’ strategy that Republicans used in the House. It’s disheartening that Senate Republicans didn’t seize this opportunity to sit down with Democrats, their own colleagues and, most importantly, their constituents to engage in good faith discussions on ways to further improve our health care system in a manner that continues to bring down costs, cover more people and expand important consumer protections.”
Read more...
Noem: USDA's Opening of CRP Acres Gives Ranchers Needed Options
Kristi Noem (R-South Dakota)
June 23, 2017
Rep. Kristi Noem issued the following statement after the USDA announced it would open South Dakota CRP acres for grazing in areas categorized as D2 (severe drought) or D3 (extreme drought) until September 30, 2017. The announcement came after a personal request from Noem to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to grant additional flexibility.
Read more...
Nunes Statement on Passage of Healthcare Bill
REP. O’HALLERAN AND 22 ARMED SERVICES DEMOCRATS INTRODUCE BILL TO BOOST UNITY AND DETERRENCE AGAINST RUSSIAN AGGRESSION
Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ, 1st)
June 23, 2017
“There can be no mistake, Russia’s blatant disregard for international agreements and treaties must be countered with strength on the international stage,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “I am proud to support legislation that strengthens our commitment to the collective defense of our allies. We must take action to end to this encroaching aggression and prevent future attempts to weaken our democracy, or the democratic process in countries around the world.”
Read more...
President Signs Blunt-Backed Bill to Increase Accountability at the VA
Senator Roy Blunt - (R - MO)
June 23, 2017
U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.) released the following statement after President Trump signed into law the Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. The bipartisan legislation, which Blunt cosponsored, reforms the Department of Veterans Affairs by making it easier for the secretary to hold employees accountable for misconduct or poor performance, and ensuring appropriate due process protections for whistleblowers.
Read more...
Boozman Applauds Signing of VA Reforms into Law
Roe Statement on President Signing VA Accountability Bill into Law
Amid Reports that Trump Will Break Promise to Get Tough on Drug Pricing, Booker, Franken, Lawmakers Urge Trump to Act on Solutions that Bring Down Prescription Drug Costs
Senator Cory A. Booker (D-NJ)
June 23, 2017
With news reports indicating the White House is on the verge of issuing an executive order devoid of policies that would meaningfully reduce prescription drug prices, breaking yet another key promise to Americans, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) and other Senate and House Democrats to urge President Donald Trump to act on solutions that truly reduce the rising cost of prescription drugs.
Read more...
Brown Vows to Keep Up Bipartisan Efforts to Protect Great Lakes Following Asian Carp Sighting
Senator Sherrod Brown- (D - OH)
June 23, 2017
“It’s clear: now is not the time to take away the tools that help us protect our Great Lakes,” said Brown. “Between this carp sighting and news that the Lake’s health is declining, it is a bad week for our Great Lakes. We’ve got to double down on our efforts to protect Lake Erie and the jobs it supports. That means staying vigilant and standing strong in bipartisan opposition to the elimination of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative proposed by the Administration.”
Read more...
Senate Intel Committee to Hold Open Hearing Next Week on Russian Intervention in European Elections
Senator Richard Burr - (R - NC)
June 23, 2017
Senator Richard Burr (R-NC), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, announced that the Committee will hold an open hearing on June 28, 2017 to examine Russia’s interference in recent and future European elections. The witnesses will address Russian activities in the French and Montenegrin elections and look forward to Germany’s fall election. This will be the latest in a series of open hearings to provide for the American people further context and understanding of Russian efforts to undermine democratic institutions at home and abroad.
Read more...
SBC Examines How to Bring Broadband to Rural America
House Committee on Small Business
June 22, 2017
Members of the House Small Business Subcommittee on Agriculture, Energy, and Trade heard from a group of experts in the first of a series of hearings addressing the rural broadband deployment efforts small telecommunications companies are undergoing in rural America. Witnesses also discussed the potential for policy changes at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and what the FCC has done to help or hinder broadband deployment.
Read more...
Judicial Watch Asks Trump Administration to End Congressional Obamacare Exemption
Judicial Watch
June 23, 2017
The ACA requires states to create at least two exchanges: a small business exchange (referred to as “SHOP” in the ACA) and an individual exchange. It also requires certain members of Congress and congressional employees to purchase insurance on an exchange created either by their state of residence (or by the District, if they are a D.C. resident) or by the federal government, if their state of residence did not establish an exchange. 42 U.S.C. § 18032(d)(3)(D)(i). Because the ACA limits the purchase of insurance on a small business exchange to employees of small businesses – and Congress is not a small business – the ACA unequivocally requires that certain members of Congress and congressional employees purchase insurance on an individual exchange created either by their state of residence (or by the District, if they are a D.C. resident) or by the federal government for that state.
Read more...
Thursday, June 22, 2017
Child Immigrants, Land Management, Freight Infrastructure, Careers, Health Insurance, Climate Change, Flood Insurance, Healthcare Bill, Concealed Carry
Statement on markup of H.R. 495, a Republican bill to remove child welfare protections
Zoe Lofgren (D-CA, 19th)
June 21, 2017
To argue that this bill “protects” children because it discourages them from making the journey to the U.S. misses the point. These kids, many of them, are fleeing from violent and desperate situations including forced sexual slavery, gang recruitment, and extortion.
Read more...
Loudermilk Supports Common-sense Policies to Protect our Lands and Citizens
Barry Loudermilk (R-GA, 11th)
June 22, 2017
“Government bureaucrats are good at trying to fix problems that don’t exist, often creating even bigger problems. When those problems arise, they promptly cast blame on someone else. Federal land management agencies have been prohibiting utility companies from inspecting and maintaining electrical lines that run through federal lands. Keeping utility companies from maintaining the trees and foliage along the power lines has contributed to many forest fires, as trees fall across active lines. Of course, the agencies blame the utility companies for the damage. This legislation will replace bureaucratic red-tape with common-sense policies that will allow utility companies access to maintain their lines, protecting our lands and citizens.”
Read more...
Congressman Lowenthal Bill Will Create Dedicated Revenue Source To Invest In Crumbling National Freight Infrastructure
Alan Lowenthal (D-CA, 47th)
June 22, 2017
The Congressman’s bill, H.R. 3001, The National Multimodal and Sustainable Freight Infrastructure Act, builds on the success of the FAST Act and ensures continued investment in the goods movement network. The bill would raise roughly $8 billion a year dedicated to freight-related infrastructure projects throughout the nation, with a focus on multimodal projects and projects that rebuild aging infrastructure while relieving bottlenecks in the freight transportation system.
Read more...
Luetkemeyer Supports Bill to Strengthen Career and Technical Education Programs
Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MI, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
“Career and technical education programs are so important for individuals throughout Missouri because they help high school and community college students attain the hands-on experience they need for jobs in a broad range of industries,” Luetkemeyer said. “This legislation will empower state and local community leaders with the resources and flexibility they need to build community partnerships and foster educational engagement with employers. Programs in the 3rd District particularly will benefit by the increase in the percentage of federal funds states can set aside to assist students in rural areas. I am pleased this bipartisan legislation passed in the House and I hope the Senate brings this important bill up for debate in the near future.”
Read more...
LUJÁN INTRODUCES BILL TO HELP STATES ENROLL MORE KIDS IN HEALTH INSURANCE
Ben R. Lujan (D-NM, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
Congressman Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) introduced legislation that will help states enroll more children in healthcare coverage by expanding the outreach and enrollment grant program. Luján’s bill also allows for the inclusion of parent mentors in the grants program. Outreach and enrollment grants help to identify and enroll children who are eligible for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Read more...
Rep. Lynch Introduces Climate Change National Security Strategy Act
Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA, 8th)
June 15, 2017
Following President Donald Trump’s announcement earlier this month that he would abandon the Paris Climate Agreement, just months after President Trump rescinded President Barack Obama’s “Climate Change and National Security” memorandum, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-Boston), the lead Democrat on the National Security Subcommittee, introduced H.R. 2908, the Climate Change National Security Strategy Act of 2017. In light of President Trump’s actions as well as the current and potential impact of climate change on national security, H.R. 2908 ensures that the Federal Government appropriately considers climate change in the development of national security strategies and policies.
Read more...
Congressman MacArthur’s Statement on National Flood Insurance Reform
Tom MacArthur (R-NJ, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
Nearly, five years ago, Superstorm Sandy devastated the Jersey Shore. Ocean County - my home - was the epicenter of the storm and half of all NJ Sandy flood claims happened here. Even today, many families are still not back in their homes and are dealing with the effects of this storm because of mismanagement at FEMA. The terrible response to this storm coupled with an opportunity to reauthorize and reform the NFIP are two big reasons why I sought a seat on the House Financial Services Committee during this Congress.
Read more...
Rep. Maloney Statement on Senate Republican Healthcare Bill
Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
June 22, 2017
“The Senate Republicans' so-called healthcare bill is deceptively named and disastrously constructed, especially for New York. This bill, drafted in secret, is just as cruel as the one every Democrat opposed in the House. Instead of expanding access to healthcare as promised by the President, it will rip away health insurance from millions of New Yorkers. Instead of making premiums more affordable as promised, it will cause New Yorkers' premiums to increase. It does all this while cutting coverage for essential health benefits like maternity care and mental health, and cutting off federal funding for Planned Parenthood, leaving many New Yorkers with no access to affordable care. This new Senate Republican bill is a Category 5 man-made disaster for New Yorkers and I hope my colleagues in the Senate will stop it dead in its tracks.”
Read more...
Maloney Introduces “Do Unto Others” Legislation to Put Members of Congress on the Bad Health Plans They Forced on Constituents
Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY, 18th)
June 22, 2017
“What’s good for the goose is good for the gander – Members of Congress who vote for a garbage health care bill shouldn’t get to keep their special access to Obamacare while they stick their constituents with more expensive plans that cover less,” said Rep. Maloney. “Don’t think your state should cover Essential Health Benefits like hospital stays or prescription drugs? Then your family shouldn’t get that coverage either. If you think high risk pools are so great, you can join one. Think older folks should be charged more for their care? You can pay those rates too.”
Read more...
Congressman Massie Introduces the D.C Personal Protection Reciprocity Act
Thomas Massie (R-KY, 4th)
June 15, 2017
Congressman Thomas Massie, Chairman of the Congressional Second Amendment Caucus, introduced H.R 2909, the D.C Personal Protection Reciprocity Act. This legislation would allow individuals with a valid concealed carry permit issued from their home state to carry their firearms in the District of Columbia.
Read more...
Zoe Lofgren (D-CA, 19th)
June 21, 2017
To argue that this bill “protects” children because it discourages them from making the journey to the U.S. misses the point. These kids, many of them, are fleeing from violent and desperate situations including forced sexual slavery, gang recruitment, and extortion.
Read more...
Loudermilk Supports Common-sense Policies to Protect our Lands and Citizens
Barry Loudermilk (R-GA, 11th)
June 22, 2017
“Government bureaucrats are good at trying to fix problems that don’t exist, often creating even bigger problems. When those problems arise, they promptly cast blame on someone else. Federal land management agencies have been prohibiting utility companies from inspecting and maintaining electrical lines that run through federal lands. Keeping utility companies from maintaining the trees and foliage along the power lines has contributed to many forest fires, as trees fall across active lines. Of course, the agencies blame the utility companies for the damage. This legislation will replace bureaucratic red-tape with common-sense policies that will allow utility companies access to maintain their lines, protecting our lands and citizens.”
Read more...
Congressman Lowenthal Bill Will Create Dedicated Revenue Source To Invest In Crumbling National Freight Infrastructure
Alan Lowenthal (D-CA, 47th)
June 22, 2017
The Congressman’s bill, H.R. 3001, The National Multimodal and Sustainable Freight Infrastructure Act, builds on the success of the FAST Act and ensures continued investment in the goods movement network. The bill would raise roughly $8 billion a year dedicated to freight-related infrastructure projects throughout the nation, with a focus on multimodal projects and projects that rebuild aging infrastructure while relieving bottlenecks in the freight transportation system.
Read more...
Luetkemeyer Supports Bill to Strengthen Career and Technical Education Programs
Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MI, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
“Career and technical education programs are so important for individuals throughout Missouri because they help high school and community college students attain the hands-on experience they need for jobs in a broad range of industries,” Luetkemeyer said. “This legislation will empower state and local community leaders with the resources and flexibility they need to build community partnerships and foster educational engagement with employers. Programs in the 3rd District particularly will benefit by the increase in the percentage of federal funds states can set aside to assist students in rural areas. I am pleased this bipartisan legislation passed in the House and I hope the Senate brings this important bill up for debate in the near future.”
Read more...
LUJÁN INTRODUCES BILL TO HELP STATES ENROLL MORE KIDS IN HEALTH INSURANCE
Ben R. Lujan (D-NM, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
Congressman Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) introduced legislation that will help states enroll more children in healthcare coverage by expanding the outreach and enrollment grant program. Luján’s bill also allows for the inclusion of parent mentors in the grants program. Outreach and enrollment grants help to identify and enroll children who are eligible for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Read more...
Rep. Lynch Introduces Climate Change National Security Strategy Act
Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA, 8th)
June 15, 2017
Following President Donald Trump’s announcement earlier this month that he would abandon the Paris Climate Agreement, just months after President Trump rescinded President Barack Obama’s “Climate Change and National Security” memorandum, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-Boston), the lead Democrat on the National Security Subcommittee, introduced H.R. 2908, the Climate Change National Security Strategy Act of 2017. In light of President Trump’s actions as well as the current and potential impact of climate change on national security, H.R. 2908 ensures that the Federal Government appropriately considers climate change in the development of national security strategies and policies.
Read more...
Congressman MacArthur’s Statement on National Flood Insurance Reform
Tom MacArthur (R-NJ, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
Nearly, five years ago, Superstorm Sandy devastated the Jersey Shore. Ocean County - my home - was the epicenter of the storm and half of all NJ Sandy flood claims happened here. Even today, many families are still not back in their homes and are dealing with the effects of this storm because of mismanagement at FEMA. The terrible response to this storm coupled with an opportunity to reauthorize and reform the NFIP are two big reasons why I sought a seat on the House Financial Services Committee during this Congress.
Read more...
Rep. Maloney Statement on Senate Republican Healthcare Bill
Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
June 22, 2017
“The Senate Republicans' so-called healthcare bill is deceptively named and disastrously constructed, especially for New York. This bill, drafted in secret, is just as cruel as the one every Democrat opposed in the House. Instead of expanding access to healthcare as promised by the President, it will rip away health insurance from millions of New Yorkers. Instead of making premiums more affordable as promised, it will cause New Yorkers' premiums to increase. It does all this while cutting coverage for essential health benefits like maternity care and mental health, and cutting off federal funding for Planned Parenthood, leaving many New Yorkers with no access to affordable care. This new Senate Republican bill is a Category 5 man-made disaster for New Yorkers and I hope my colleagues in the Senate will stop it dead in its tracks.”
Read more...
Maloney Introduces “Do Unto Others” Legislation to Put Members of Congress on the Bad Health Plans They Forced on Constituents
Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY, 18th)
June 22, 2017
“What’s good for the goose is good for the gander – Members of Congress who vote for a garbage health care bill shouldn’t get to keep their special access to Obamacare while they stick their constituents with more expensive plans that cover less,” said Rep. Maloney. “Don’t think your state should cover Essential Health Benefits like hospital stays or prescription drugs? Then your family shouldn’t get that coverage either. If you think high risk pools are so great, you can join one. Think older folks should be charged more for their care? You can pay those rates too.”
Read more...
Congressman Massie Introduces the D.C Personal Protection Reciprocity Act
Thomas Massie (R-KY, 4th)
June 15, 2017
Congressman Thomas Massie, Chairman of the Congressional Second Amendment Caucus, introduced H.R 2909, the D.C Personal Protection Reciprocity Act. This legislation would allow individuals with a valid concealed carry permit issued from their home state to carry their firearms in the District of Columbia.
Read more...
Sunday, May 28, 2017
Budget, Flood Insurance, Canada, Fishing, Gerrymandering, Veterans, NATO, Small Business, Climate, Skin Cancer
Doyle Responds to Trump Budget
Mike Doyle (D-PA, 14th)
May 23, 2017
“President Trump calls his budget “A New Foundation for American Greatness. It’d be more accurate to call it a budget that undermines the foundations of American greatness. President Trump’s budget would gut the federal investments in education, science, and infrastructure that promote economic growth. It would slash safety net programs and the programs that make life better for millions of hard-working Americans. On top of all that, it would do nothing to create jobs and raise wages.
Read more...
Congressman Sean Duffy’s Statement On NFIP Discussion Draft
Sean P. Duffy (R-WI, 7th)
May 25, 2017
“We’re releasing this discussion draft so that all sides can continue to provide input into protecting the program integrity of the NFIP. So far, we have incorporated ideas from both Republicans and Democrats, Members from inland and coastal areas, and stakeholders across several industries. The ideas stemming from this open process will ensure that everyone who needs flood insurance will have access to it while ensuring that the NFIP does not fall further into debt.”
Read more...
Duncan, Meeks, Cramer, and Huizenga Introduce Canada Resolution Supporting Bilateral Partnership
Jeff Duncan (R-SC, 3rd)
May 25, 2017
“Canada is one of our closest friends. We share the longest undefended border, largest bilateral trading relationship, and one of the deepest security and energy partnerships in the world. Today, 32 U.S. States consider Canada their primary trading partner. Canada has been a critical ally of ours in the fight against terrorism, and our border security cooperation is one of the most comprehensive in existence. Our energy ties are especially strong, and I am excited about the future of our energy relationship. As our Canadian neighbors celebrate 150 years of the Canadian Federation, I am thankful for the many ways Canada has supported the United States and look forward to building an even stronger relationship in the days ahead.”
Read more...
DR. DUNN FIGHTS FOR LOCAL ANGLERS
Neal Dunn (R-FL, 2nd)
May 25, 2017
“We strongly urge you to use any authority at your disposal to expand the 2017 private recreational Red Snapper season in federal waters to include Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in June, July, and August, as well as July 3 and July 4, consistent with the current health and overall sustainability of the stock,” wrote the lawmakers. “While this proposal does not address the longer term issues, we hope this proposed solutions for the 2017 season will be something you will strongly consider.”
Read more...
Rep. Ellison Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on North Carolina’s Racist Gerrymandering
Keith Ellison (D-MN, 5th)
May 23, 2017
Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) released the following statement after the Supreme Court affirmed a lower court ruling that two of the congressional districts redrawn by Republicans after the 2010 census were unconstitutional. The Supreme Court found the boundaries of these congressional districts had been been drawn using race as a factor, disenfranchising Black voters.
Read more...
Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Honor Veterans
Tom Emmer (R-MN, 6th)
May 26, 2017
This week, U.S. Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Tom Emmer (R-MN) and U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) reintroduced H.R. 2754, the Atomic Veterans Service Medal Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill that would authorize the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participation in the testing of nuclear weapons or under other circumstances.
Read more...
ENGEL STATEMENT ON TRUMP'S NATO SPEECH
Eliot Engel (D-NY, 16th)
May 26, 2017
“While I do agree that NATO allies need to keep working toward their defense-spending goals—as set out at the Wales Summit under President Obama’s leadership—there’s a time and a place for that conversation. It shouldn’t be done in a way designed to embarrass our closest friends while standing before a memorial to 9/11—the single time in NATO’s history Article 5 has been invoked.”
Read more...
Eshoo Statement on Updated Trumpcare CBO Score
Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA, 18th)
May 25th, 2017
“The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has once again put out the facts on Trumpcare, and they further confirm how damaging the legislation is.
Read more...
Esty Statement on CBO Score of Revised GOP Health Care Bill
Foxx, Walberg Statement on American Health Care Act CBO Report
CONGRESSMAN EVANS INTRODUCES BILL TO HELP SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND ENTREPRENEURS
Dwight Evans (D PA, 2nd)
May 25, 2017
The Small Business Innovation Protection Act of 2017 requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) and United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to work together to create valuable training for domestic and international patent protection for our small businesses. The bill will also require the USPTO to work with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network to provide critical training on both domestic and international intellectual property protections for small business owners and entrepreneurs.
Read more...
Fitzpatrick Statement on Paris Climate Agreement
Brian Fitzpatrick, (R PA, 8th)
May 28, 2017
"I urge the Administration to keep the United States in the Paris Climate Agreement. Last month, I joined members of both parties in urging the President to remain in the agreement and to keep our seat at the table, and our words are worth repeating: ‘The world's leading nations must work together... It is imperative that we maintain our seat at the table in global discussions of how to address the threats posed by climate change.' I share Secretary of Defense Mattis' view that this challenge must be addressed proactively and head-on, and I agree with both our Secretary of State and Secretary of Energy that retaining our seat at this table is vitally important. A renegotiation is a better option and will benefit our nation in the long run.”
Read more...
OP-ED: Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN, 3rd)
May 23, 2017
Listen up, Dad! Your teen daughter isn’t the only one at risk for skin cancer. An estimated 87,110 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with melanoma this year, with 1,840 cases expected in Tennessee alone. But did you know that more than half of those cases will be men? Males age 50 and older are at increased risk of skin cancer, and by age 65 skin cancer rates in men are double that of women. This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, educate yourself and your loved ones about skin cancer prevention.
Read more...
Honoring our Commitments to American Veterans
Bill Flores (R-TX, 17th)
May 26, 2017
“Our nation’s veterans have given so much to protect our freedoms and liberties. They deserve to know that their health care and benefits are in good hands. This week, the House passed several bills to help our veterans and put the VA on a path to permanent success. I remain committed to working with my fellow House colleagues to create a 21st century VA that improves access to high-quality care and puts the care of our nation’s veterans first. With Memorial Day approaching, it is fitting that the House works to honor the commitments made to our military men and women.”
Read more...
Mike Doyle (D-PA, 14th)
May 23, 2017
“President Trump calls his budget “A New Foundation for American Greatness. It’d be more accurate to call it a budget that undermines the foundations of American greatness. President Trump’s budget would gut the federal investments in education, science, and infrastructure that promote economic growth. It would slash safety net programs and the programs that make life better for millions of hard-working Americans. On top of all that, it would do nothing to create jobs and raise wages.
Read more...
Congressman Sean Duffy’s Statement On NFIP Discussion Draft
Sean P. Duffy (R-WI, 7th)
May 25, 2017
“We’re releasing this discussion draft so that all sides can continue to provide input into protecting the program integrity of the NFIP. So far, we have incorporated ideas from both Republicans and Democrats, Members from inland and coastal areas, and stakeholders across several industries. The ideas stemming from this open process will ensure that everyone who needs flood insurance will have access to it while ensuring that the NFIP does not fall further into debt.”
Read more...
Duncan, Meeks, Cramer, and Huizenga Introduce Canada Resolution Supporting Bilateral Partnership
Jeff Duncan (R-SC, 3rd)
May 25, 2017
“Canada is one of our closest friends. We share the longest undefended border, largest bilateral trading relationship, and one of the deepest security and energy partnerships in the world. Today, 32 U.S. States consider Canada their primary trading partner. Canada has been a critical ally of ours in the fight against terrorism, and our border security cooperation is one of the most comprehensive in existence. Our energy ties are especially strong, and I am excited about the future of our energy relationship. As our Canadian neighbors celebrate 150 years of the Canadian Federation, I am thankful for the many ways Canada has supported the United States and look forward to building an even stronger relationship in the days ahead.”
Read more...
DR. DUNN FIGHTS FOR LOCAL ANGLERS
Neal Dunn (R-FL, 2nd)
May 25, 2017
“We strongly urge you to use any authority at your disposal to expand the 2017 private recreational Red Snapper season in federal waters to include Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in June, July, and August, as well as July 3 and July 4, consistent with the current health and overall sustainability of the stock,” wrote the lawmakers. “While this proposal does not address the longer term issues, we hope this proposed solutions for the 2017 season will be something you will strongly consider.”
Read more...
Rep. Ellison Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on North Carolina’s Racist Gerrymandering
Keith Ellison (D-MN, 5th)
May 23, 2017
Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) released the following statement after the Supreme Court affirmed a lower court ruling that two of the congressional districts redrawn by Republicans after the 2010 census were unconstitutional. The Supreme Court found the boundaries of these congressional districts had been been drawn using race as a factor, disenfranchising Black voters.
Read more...
Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Honor Veterans
Tom Emmer (R-MN, 6th)
May 26, 2017
This week, U.S. Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Tom Emmer (R-MN) and U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) reintroduced H.R. 2754, the Atomic Veterans Service Medal Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill that would authorize the award of a military service medal to members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participation in the testing of nuclear weapons or under other circumstances.
Read more...
ENGEL STATEMENT ON TRUMP'S NATO SPEECH
Eliot Engel (D-NY, 16th)
May 26, 2017
“While I do agree that NATO allies need to keep working toward their defense-spending goals—as set out at the Wales Summit under President Obama’s leadership—there’s a time and a place for that conversation. It shouldn’t be done in a way designed to embarrass our closest friends while standing before a memorial to 9/11—the single time in NATO’s history Article 5 has been invoked.”
Read more...
Eshoo Statement on Updated Trumpcare CBO Score
Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA, 18th)
May 25th, 2017
“The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has once again put out the facts on Trumpcare, and they further confirm how damaging the legislation is.
Read more...
Esty Statement on CBO Score of Revised GOP Health Care Bill
Foxx, Walberg Statement on American Health Care Act CBO Report
CONGRESSMAN EVANS INTRODUCES BILL TO HELP SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND ENTREPRENEURS
Dwight Evans (D PA, 2nd)
May 25, 2017
The Small Business Innovation Protection Act of 2017 requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) and United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to work together to create valuable training for domestic and international patent protection for our small businesses. The bill will also require the USPTO to work with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network to provide critical training on both domestic and international intellectual property protections for small business owners and entrepreneurs.
Read more...
Fitzpatrick Statement on Paris Climate Agreement
Brian Fitzpatrick, (R PA, 8th)
May 28, 2017
"I urge the Administration to keep the United States in the Paris Climate Agreement. Last month, I joined members of both parties in urging the President to remain in the agreement and to keep our seat at the table, and our words are worth repeating: ‘The world's leading nations must work together... It is imperative that we maintain our seat at the table in global discussions of how to address the threats posed by climate change.' I share Secretary of Defense Mattis' view that this challenge must be addressed proactively and head-on, and I agree with both our Secretary of State and Secretary of Energy that retaining our seat at this table is vitally important. A renegotiation is a better option and will benefit our nation in the long run.”
Read more...
OP-ED: Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN, 3rd)
May 23, 2017
Listen up, Dad! Your teen daughter isn’t the only one at risk for skin cancer. An estimated 87,110 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with melanoma this year, with 1,840 cases expected in Tennessee alone. But did you know that more than half of those cases will be men? Males age 50 and older are at increased risk of skin cancer, and by age 65 skin cancer rates in men are double that of women. This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, educate yourself and your loved ones about skin cancer prevention.
Read more...
Honoring our Commitments to American Veterans
Bill Flores (R-TX, 17th)
May 26, 2017
“Our nation’s veterans have given so much to protect our freedoms and liberties. They deserve to know that their health care and benefits are in good hands. This week, the House passed several bills to help our veterans and put the VA on a path to permanent success. I remain committed to working with my fellow House colleagues to create a 21st century VA that improves access to high-quality care and puts the care of our nation’s veterans first. With Memorial Day approaching, it is fitting that the House works to honor the commitments made to our military men and women.”
Read more...
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
American Healthcare Act, Flood Insurance, terrorists, Federal Agencies, Regulatory "Dark Matter", Free Speech, Travel Ban
CRIST STATEMENT ON CBO SCORE OF REPUBLICAN HEALTHCARE REPEAL
Charlie Crist (D FL, 13th)
March 13, 2017
Congressman Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) made the following statement after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) found the Republican healthcare repeal bill would result in 14 million fewer Americans having health care coverage in 2018, with a total of 24 million Americans losing coverage by 2026. At the same time, those with coverage would see higher out-of-pocket costs, including higher deductibles and premium increases of 15-20 percent. The bill also would cut $880 billion from Medicaid, gutting the program that 70 million low-income Americans depend on for care, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Read more...
Menendez Outlines Sweeping Reforms to FEMA’s Broken National Flood Insurance Program
Robert Menendez - (D - NJ)
March 13, 2017
U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), chair of the Sandy Task Force and a senior member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, laid out a series of robust reforms to the much-maligned National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that experienced widespread failures and fraud, cheating storm victims and hampering recovery in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. Sen. Menendez aims to make the NFIP: simple, affordable, fair, efficient and accountable to consumers and taxpayers.
Read more...
MERKLEY: CBO SCORE SOUNDS THE ALARM – LIFE-AND-DEATH CARE AT RISK FOR MILLIONS
Jeff Merkley - (D - OR)
March 13, 2017
Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley released the following statement after the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) issued its scoring of the American Health Care Act, or “Trumpcare:”
Read more...
Dr. Rand Paul Introduces the Stop Arming Terrorists Act
Senator Rand Paul - (R - KY)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Senator Rand Paul introduced the Stop Arming Terrorists Act (S. 532) to prevent American taxpayers’ money from being used to directly or indirectly support armed militants who are allied with or often working under the command of al-Qaeda, ISIS, or other terrorist groups. The legislation serves as a companion bill to H.R. 608, which Representative Tulsi Gabbard (HI-2) reintroduced in January.
Read more...
Sen. Moran Introduces Legislation to Restore Trade with Cuba
Senator Jerry Moran- (R - KS)
March 13, 2017
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) recently introduced The Cuba Trade Act of 2017 (S. 472), which would restore trade with Cuba and grant the private sector the freedom to export U.S. goods and services to Cuba while protecting U.S. taxpayers from any risk or exposure associated with such trade.
Read more...
MURPHY ON TRUMPCARE CBO SCORE: “PASSING THIS BILL WOULD BE A HUGE MISTAKE”
Christopher Murphy- (D - CT)
March 13, 2017
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, released the following statement on Monday after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released their projected cost and reach of Republicans’ misguided Trumpcare. The CBO report made clear that under Trumpcare, 24 million fewer people would be insured by 2026 and average premiums would increase by 15-20% for single policyholders in the individual market.
Read more...
Citizens Against Government Waste Praises President Trump’s Executive Order to Improve the Efficiency of Federal Agencies
Citizens Against Government Waste
March 13, 2017
Citizens Against Government Waste (CAGW), America’s largest taxpayer watchdog group, applauded President Donald Trump’s executive order “directing the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to submit a comprehensive plan to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability of the executive branch,” including the elimination or reorganization of redundant or unnecessary federal agencies.
Read more...
Mapping Washington’s Lawlessness: CEI Releases Updated Inventory of “Regulatory Dark Matter”
Competitive Enterprise Institute
March 14, 2017
Today, the Competitive Enterprise (CEI) released the 2017 update to its comprehensive report Mapping Washington’s Lawlessness: An Inventory of “Regulatory Dark Matter.” This analysis covers how, in addition to Congress’s own laws and the many thousands of rules issued by unelected regulators, regulatory dark matter exists in the form of thousands of additional issuances from executive and independent agencies. This dark matter goes around Congress, the Administrative Procedure Act’s (APA) public notice and comment requirements, and the American people themselves.
Read more...
CVA TESTIFIES ON ANTI-FREE SPEECH MEASURE S.255
Concerned Veterans for America
March 14, 2017
“Veterans sacrificed for the right for all of us to stand up and speak freely about the issues we care about. But if S.255 passes, South Carolinians could be intimidated from supporting a cause or making a statement. This is America – no one should be forced to report their private information to the government and fear retaliation for their beliefs. We urge the state Senate to protect the First Amendment and block S.255 today.”
Read more...
Important information on Executive Order – Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States
Bureau of Consular Affairs
MARCH 13, 2017
On March 6, 2017, President Trump signed a new Executive Order on Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States which directs us to review current screening procedures, while protecting national security – our top priority when issuing visas.
Read more...
Charlie Crist (D FL, 13th)
March 13, 2017
Congressman Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) made the following statement after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) found the Republican healthcare repeal bill would result in 14 million fewer Americans having health care coverage in 2018, with a total of 24 million Americans losing coverage by 2026. At the same time, those with coverage would see higher out-of-pocket costs, including higher deductibles and premium increases of 15-20 percent. The bill also would cut $880 billion from Medicaid, gutting the program that 70 million low-income Americans depend on for care, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Read more...
Menendez Outlines Sweeping Reforms to FEMA’s Broken National Flood Insurance Program
Robert Menendez - (D - NJ)
March 13, 2017
U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), chair of the Sandy Task Force and a senior member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, laid out a series of robust reforms to the much-maligned National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that experienced widespread failures and fraud, cheating storm victims and hampering recovery in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. Sen. Menendez aims to make the NFIP: simple, affordable, fair, efficient and accountable to consumers and taxpayers.
Read more...
MERKLEY: CBO SCORE SOUNDS THE ALARM – LIFE-AND-DEATH CARE AT RISK FOR MILLIONS
Jeff Merkley - (D - OR)
March 13, 2017
Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley released the following statement after the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) issued its scoring of the American Health Care Act, or “Trumpcare:”
Read more...
Dr. Rand Paul Introduces the Stop Arming Terrorists Act
Senator Rand Paul - (R - KY)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Senator Rand Paul introduced the Stop Arming Terrorists Act (S. 532) to prevent American taxpayers’ money from being used to directly or indirectly support armed militants who are allied with or often working under the command of al-Qaeda, ISIS, or other terrorist groups. The legislation serves as a companion bill to H.R. 608, which Representative Tulsi Gabbard (HI-2) reintroduced in January.
Read more...
Sen. Moran Introduces Legislation to Restore Trade with Cuba
Senator Jerry Moran- (R - KS)
March 13, 2017
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) recently introduced The Cuba Trade Act of 2017 (S. 472), which would restore trade with Cuba and grant the private sector the freedom to export U.S. goods and services to Cuba while protecting U.S. taxpayers from any risk or exposure associated with such trade.
Read more...
MURPHY ON TRUMPCARE CBO SCORE: “PASSING THIS BILL WOULD BE A HUGE MISTAKE”
Christopher Murphy- (D - CT)
March 13, 2017
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, released the following statement on Monday after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released their projected cost and reach of Republicans’ misguided Trumpcare. The CBO report made clear that under Trumpcare, 24 million fewer people would be insured by 2026 and average premiums would increase by 15-20% for single policyholders in the individual market.
Read more...
Citizens Against Government Waste Praises President Trump’s Executive Order to Improve the Efficiency of Federal Agencies
Citizens Against Government Waste
March 13, 2017
Citizens Against Government Waste (CAGW), America’s largest taxpayer watchdog group, applauded President Donald Trump’s executive order “directing the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to submit a comprehensive plan to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability of the executive branch,” including the elimination or reorganization of redundant or unnecessary federal agencies.
Read more...
Mapping Washington’s Lawlessness: CEI Releases Updated Inventory of “Regulatory Dark Matter”
Competitive Enterprise Institute
March 14, 2017
Today, the Competitive Enterprise (CEI) released the 2017 update to its comprehensive report Mapping Washington’s Lawlessness: An Inventory of “Regulatory Dark Matter.” This analysis covers how, in addition to Congress’s own laws and the many thousands of rules issued by unelected regulators, regulatory dark matter exists in the form of thousands of additional issuances from executive and independent agencies. This dark matter goes around Congress, the Administrative Procedure Act’s (APA) public notice and comment requirements, and the American people themselves.
Read more...
CVA TESTIFIES ON ANTI-FREE SPEECH MEASURE S.255
Concerned Veterans for America
March 14, 2017
“Veterans sacrificed for the right for all of us to stand up and speak freely about the issues we care about. But if S.255 passes, South Carolinians could be intimidated from supporting a cause or making a statement. This is America – no one should be forced to report their private information to the government and fear retaliation for their beliefs. We urge the state Senate to protect the First Amendment and block S.255 today.”
Read more...
Important information on Executive Order – Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States
Bureau of Consular Affairs
MARCH 13, 2017
On March 6, 2017, President Trump signed a new Executive Order on Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States which directs us to review current screening procedures, while protecting national security – our top priority when issuing visas.
Read more...
Saturday, March 11, 2017
News: Climate Change, Flood Insurance, Cybersecurity, Veterans, Immigration, Airline Seats, Seniors, Volkswagon
Rep. Cartwright Introduces Bill to Improve Climate Change Resilience
Matthew Cartwright (D-PA, 17th)
March 9, 2017
Congressman Matt Cartwright introduced a bipartisan bill that would strengthen America’s ability to withstand the challenges posed by climate change. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) SUCCESS Act directs NIST to convene an effort to make consistent, authoritative set of climate information available to standard-developing organizations (SDOs).
Read more...
Castor, Ross Reintroduce Bipartisan Flood Insurance Bill to Help Homeowners
Kathy Castor (D-FL, 14th)
March 8, 2017
U.S. Rep. Dennis A. Ross (R-FL-15), Senior Deputy Majority Whip, today reintroduced his bipartisan legislation, the Flood Insurance Market Parity and Modernization Act, which would encourage the development of a robust private flood insurance market that can offer homeowners options in terms of pricing and coverage.
Read more...
Castro, Cornyn Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Local Cybersecurity Defenses
Joaquin Castro (D-TX, 20th)
March 10, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) yesterday reintroduced The National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act, H.R. 1465, legislation that allows non-profit entities, including universities, to work more closely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to address cybersecurity risks and incidents at the state and local level. Every member of the San Antonio delegation in the House (Reps. Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Will Hurd (TX-23), and Lamar Smith (TX-21)) has signed on as a co-sponsor of the measure, and Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) has also reintroduced the Senate companion bill. Both Rep. Castro and Sen. Cornyn initially introduced the legislation in the 114th Congress, when it passed the House of Representatives with broad support.
Read more...
Cornyn, Leahy, Cruz Introduce Bill to Enhance Cybersecurity
Senator Patrick J. Leahy - (D - VT)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), and Ted Cruz (R-TX) have introduced the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act to authorize the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to work with the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC) to help prepare for and respond to cybersecurity risks at the national, state, and local levels.
Read more...
Coffman Introduces Bipartisan ‘Veterans Reimbursement for Emergency Ambulance Services' Act (VREASA)
Mike Coffman (R-CO, 6th)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Representative Mike Coffman (R-CO) with bipartisan support has introduced H.R. 1445, the ‘Veterans Reimbursement for Emergency Ambulance Services Act’. The intent is to correct the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) regulations that unfairly saddle veterans with emergency ambulance payments.
Read more...
Curbelo, Coffman, Introduce Recognize American Children Act
Mike Coffman (R-CO, 6th)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Representative Carlos Curbelo (FL-26) along with U.S. Representative Mike Coffman (CO-06) have introduced the Recognizing America’s Children (RAC) Act, legislation that would provide a path to legal status for undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children.The bill provides immigrants that have been vetted by The Department of Homeland Security with three pathways toward legalization: higher education, service in the armed forces, or work authorization. Following a 5-year conditional status, these immigrants would be able to reapply for a 5-year permanent status.
Read more...
Reps. Cohen and Kinzinger, Senators Blumenthal, Schumer, Markey, Menendez and Feinstein Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral SEAT Act
Steve Cohen (D-TN, 9th)
March 9, 2017
The SEAT Act would establish a minimum seat size on commercial airlines as well as a minimum distance between rows of seats to protect the safety and health of airline passengers.
Read more...
King, Collins, Schatz Introduce Bill to Help America’s Seniors Safely Age at Home
Senator Angus S. King Jr. - (I - ME)
March 9, 2017
As more Americans are choosing to grow older in their own homes, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) today introduced legislation that will help make independent living less burdensome.
Read more...
Markey and Blumenthal Statemenet on Volkswagen Guilty Plea
Senator Edward J.Markey - (D - MA)
March 10, 2017
Washington (March 10, 2017) - U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement today after Volkswagen pleaded guilty to three felony counts as part of an agreement with the Department of Justice to settle charges related to the automaker’s vehicle emission scandal.
Read more...
Matthew Cartwright (D-PA, 17th)
March 9, 2017
Congressman Matt Cartwright introduced a bipartisan bill that would strengthen America’s ability to withstand the challenges posed by climate change. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) SUCCESS Act directs NIST to convene an effort to make consistent, authoritative set of climate information available to standard-developing organizations (SDOs).
Read more...
Castor, Ross Reintroduce Bipartisan Flood Insurance Bill to Help Homeowners
Kathy Castor (D-FL, 14th)
March 8, 2017
U.S. Rep. Dennis A. Ross (R-FL-15), Senior Deputy Majority Whip, today reintroduced his bipartisan legislation, the Flood Insurance Market Parity and Modernization Act, which would encourage the development of a robust private flood insurance market that can offer homeowners options in terms of pricing and coverage.
Read more...
Castro, Cornyn Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Local Cybersecurity Defenses
Joaquin Castro (D-TX, 20th)
March 10, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) yesterday reintroduced The National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act, H.R. 1465, legislation that allows non-profit entities, including universities, to work more closely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to address cybersecurity risks and incidents at the state and local level. Every member of the San Antonio delegation in the House (Reps. Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Will Hurd (TX-23), and Lamar Smith (TX-21)) has signed on as a co-sponsor of the measure, and Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) has also reintroduced the Senate companion bill. Both Rep. Castro and Sen. Cornyn initially introduced the legislation in the 114th Congress, when it passed the House of Representatives with broad support.
Read more...
Cornyn, Leahy, Cruz Introduce Bill to Enhance Cybersecurity
Senator Patrick J. Leahy - (D - VT)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), and Ted Cruz (R-TX) have introduced the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act to authorize the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to work with the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC) to help prepare for and respond to cybersecurity risks at the national, state, and local levels.
Read more...
Coffman Introduces Bipartisan ‘Veterans Reimbursement for Emergency Ambulance Services' Act (VREASA)
Mike Coffman (R-CO, 6th)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Representative Mike Coffman (R-CO) with bipartisan support has introduced H.R. 1445, the ‘Veterans Reimbursement for Emergency Ambulance Services Act’. The intent is to correct the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) regulations that unfairly saddle veterans with emergency ambulance payments.
Read more...
Curbelo, Coffman, Introduce Recognize American Children Act
Mike Coffman (R-CO, 6th)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Representative Carlos Curbelo (FL-26) along with U.S. Representative Mike Coffman (CO-06) have introduced the Recognizing America’s Children (RAC) Act, legislation that would provide a path to legal status for undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children.The bill provides immigrants that have been vetted by The Department of Homeland Security with three pathways toward legalization: higher education, service in the armed forces, or work authorization. Following a 5-year conditional status, these immigrants would be able to reapply for a 5-year permanent status.
Read more...
Reps. Cohen and Kinzinger, Senators Blumenthal, Schumer, Markey, Menendez and Feinstein Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral SEAT Act
Steve Cohen (D-TN, 9th)
March 9, 2017
The SEAT Act would establish a minimum seat size on commercial airlines as well as a minimum distance between rows of seats to protect the safety and health of airline passengers.
Read more...
King, Collins, Schatz Introduce Bill to Help America’s Seniors Safely Age at Home
Senator Angus S. King Jr. - (I - ME)
March 9, 2017
As more Americans are choosing to grow older in their own homes, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) today introduced legislation that will help make independent living less burdensome.
Read more...
Markey and Blumenthal Statemenet on Volkswagen Guilty Plea
Senator Edward J.Markey - (D - MA)
March 10, 2017
Washington (March 10, 2017) - U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement today after Volkswagen pleaded guilty to three felony counts as part of an agreement with the Department of Justice to settle charges related to the automaker’s vehicle emission scandal.
Read more...
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