Guns are Essential and MORE...

Information on Individual Payments in the CARES Act
Source: U.S. Representative Albio Sires (D-NJ, 8th)
March 30, 2020
The recently passed CARES Act includes provisions to provide direct financial assistance to millions of Americans across the country. These payments, or rebates, will come from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and for those who filed a federal income tax return in 2018 or 2019, processing will be based on the payment and address information already on file. The payment for each adult is $1,200, or $2,400 for joint filers, and $500 for each qualifying under the age of 17.
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Smith Works Successfully with Families and State Department to Bring Home 17 Trapped in Peru
Source: U.S. Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ, 4th)
March 30, 2020
After more than a week of letters, phone calls and personal intervention to bring home Americans stuck in Peru, Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) announced today that almost all those he championed are back on U.S. soil. The last of the 17 Americans seeking Smith’s assistance is in transit and expected back in the U.S. Monday.
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Spanberger Presses FDA to Cut Red Tape for Central Virginia Distilleries Producing Hand Sanitizer
Source: U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger (D-VA, 7th)
March 30, 2020
In a letter sent to FDA Administrator Stephen Hahn, Spanberger and 86 of her colleagues requested that the agency update its guidance to recognize the use of undenatured alcohol in sanitizers. Undenatured alcohol—which distillers in Central Virginia and across the country have readily available—is compliant with the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) hand sanitizer formula and has the same effectiveness as denatured alcohol.
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STEFANIK COSPONSORS BILL ENSURING BROADBAND CONNECTIVITY FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
Source: U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY, 21st)
March 30, 2020
“During this time of crisis, while many are working and completing schoolwork from home, it is essential that they have reliable access to broadband,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “This legislation supports our small operators to offer free or discounted service or broadband upgrades to households who are in urgent need of distance learning and other capabilities. In addition, many constituents in the North Country rely on telehealth services, especially during this health crisis. I am proud to cosponsor this legislation to bring more connectivity to those who need it most during this unprecedented time, and I will continue to advocate for their needs in Congress.”
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Sasse Pushes Liability Shield for Coronavirus Doctors
Source: Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE)
March 30, 2020
“In ERs and ICUs across America, doctors and nurses are writing the playbook as they fight this virus one day at a time,” said Senator Sasse. “These heroes need a common-sense liability shield so that they don’t have to worry about lawsuits while they’re scrambling to save lives. This legislation gives emergency liability and patent protections to health care professionals who are innovating on the frontlines. America is going to beat this virus. Congress needs to make sure that phase four legislation protects our doctors and nurses from a plague of lawsuits.”
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Jennifer Garner & Amy Adams’ #SAVEWITHSTORIES Helping America’s Kids Learn, Get Nutritious Meals During Coronavirus School Closures
Source: Save the Children
March 30, 2020
With nearly 95 percent of America’s schools closed due to coronavirus concerns, actors Jennifer Garner and Amy Adams’s newly launched #SAVEWITHSTORIES initiative is gaining momentum and helping the country’s most vulnerable kids continue to learn and get the nutrition they need while they’re home from school. The actors are sharing their favorite books and stories on Instagram and Facebook – and asking their friends to do the same – to drive donations to Save the Children and Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign’s coronavirus response efforts.
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As Farm Prices Slump Due to Coronavirus, U.S. Senators Klobuchar, Smith Announce USDA Crop Insurance Flexibilities to Support Producers
Source: Senator Tina Smith (D-MN)
March 30, 2020
“Minnesotans across the state are facing economic turmoil caused by the coronavirus pandemic and that includes our farmers,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “As the backbone of our state’s economy, farmers need our support during periods of uncertainty. This added flexibility from USDA will help ensure that the impacts from coronavirus will not jeopardize the crop insurance services farmers rely upon. I encourage farmers with questions to contact their local crop insurance agent.”
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Sanders Launches Inquiry into Postal Worker Protections Against Coronavirus
Source: Senator Bernard Sanders (I-VT)
March 31, 2020
“It is not an exaggeration to say that our men and women in the Postal Service, who were already performing one of the most important jobs in America, are now literally putting their own lives on the line to deliver the food, medicine, and essential supplies that hundreds of millions of Americans depend on every single day during this pandemic,” said Sanders. “The Postal Service leadership must do everything in its power to protect these heroes by immediately distributing protective gear, implementing strong workplace safety policies, and making sick leave easily available,” Sanders said. “I will look forward to hearing from the Postal Service’s leadership on what progress they have made on this absolutely urgent matter.”
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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Sen. Rick Scott: America Needs to Take Action to End Coronavirus and Get Back to Our Normal Lives
Source: Senator Rick Scott (R-FL)
March 31, 2020
Now that Congress has acted to help the workers and small businesses that are suffering, we need to turn our focus to getting our country back to work. I laid out a 30-day plan to stem the spread of coronavirus and start to get American families back to their normal lives
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Scott Statement On Pelosi Fighting For Millionaires During Pandemic
Source: Senator Tim Scott (R-SC)
March 31, 2020
“After wasting four days trying to pass the Green New Deal as part of the last coronavirus relief package, now Speaker Pelosi wants to hand out billions of dollars to millionaires,” Scott said. “This is offensive to the American people, counterproductive to helping those most in need, and would never pass the Senate. Pandemic relief is supposed to help the American people, Speaker Pelosi, not serve as a grab bag for your liberal wish list.”
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Following Outreach from Shaheen & Hassan, Major Insurance Companies Announce Policy to Waive Cost-Sharing for COVID-19 Expenses, Including Testing and Treatment
Source: Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)
March 31, 2020
Under the bipartisan COVID-19 response packages, free testing is available if recommended by a doctor. However, due to a lack of available testing, it may not be possible for everyone who has contracted COVID-19 to get tested, which is why it is essential that insurance companies cover the costs for treatment and diagnostic services for both presumptive and confirmed COVID-19 cases.
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Stabenow Statement on President Trump’s Decision on Fuel Efficiency Standards
Source: Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)
March 31, 2020
“The Administration has failed to bring people together and put forth a rule that is good for our auto industry, workers, consumers, and the environment. Instead, they are taking us backwards. This rule creates more uncertainty for our auto industry and makes it more difficult for us to compete in the global market. We need a strong, achievable, national standard that maintains an urgent focus on combatting the climate crisis and tackling fuel efficiency. This rule takes us in the wrong direction.”
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GROUPS SEEK SHOW CAUSE ORDER IN CAL GUN CASE
Source: Second Amendment Foundation
March 31, 2020
A coalition of gun rights groups including the Second Amendment Foundation is asking for a temporary restraining order (TRO) and an order to “show cause” in a motion for their federal case against California authorities who have ordered a shutdown of retail gun shops in connection with the COVID-19 outbreak.
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With $349 Billion in Emergency Small Business Capital Cleared, SBA and Treasury Begin Unprecedented Public-Private Mobilization Effort to Distribute Funds
Source: Small Business Association
March 31, 2020
“This unprecedented public-private partnership is going to assist small businesses with accessing capital quickly. Our goal is to position lenders as the single point-of-contact for small businesses – the application, loan processing, and disbursement of funds will all be administered at the community level,” said Administrator Carranza. “Speed is the operative word; applications for the emergency capital can begin as early as this week, with lenders using their own systems and processes to make these loans. We remain committed to supporting our nation’s more than 30 million small businesses and their employees, so that they can continue to be the fuel for our nation’s economic engine.”
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Somebody Cares Network Respond to COVID19 Crisis
Source: Somebody Cares America/International
March 31, 2020
In response to a plea from the White House for donations of supplies to hospitals, clinics, and other medical providers, Somebody Cares America/International has distributed over 40 thousand N95 masks, normally used by SCA for wildfires and relief efforts involving mold from flooding. Recipients include medical relief ministries in Texas and California; various medical practitioners and healthcare systems in Texas; a testing clinic in the Houston area; a military base quarantine site; law enforcement; and our Somebody Cares Baltimore chapter, which is working alongside the local police department and the National Guard to help with the crisis in their community.
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Amid COVID19, Non-Profit Works to Rescue Children from Public School
Source: Public School Exit
March 31, 2020
University professor Dr. Duke Pesta, who runs the online K-12 FreedomProject Academy, has years of experience delivering world-class education. "With the technology today, there are no more excuses for parents to send their children to public schools," said Pesta, a leading critic of Common Core.
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Colorado Man Arrested Over Social Media Post Containing Gun Pointed at Jewish Men Praying
Source: Stopantisemitism.org
March 31, 2020
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Kauffman posted a threatening image on a social media website on March 13, 2019. The image was a digitally-created image of Kauffman’s arm and hand aiming an AR-15 rifle at a congregation of praying Jewish men, gathered in what appears to be a synagogue.
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Thanking our First Responders and Critical Care Workers...and MORE!

This current crisis has, more than ever, highlighted the dangers our First Responders and Critical Care Workers walk into, selflessly, every day. Many of us have close family and friends who go out every day to put themselves in harm's way to save strangers. Today, The Ponder would like to say "Thank You!" on behalf of ourselves, and our readers, and the nation that we love! Our constant prayers go with you!

As Number of First Responders with COVID-19 Continues to Rise, Rose Calls on Mayor to Utilize Federal Funding to Increase PPE
Source: U.S. Representative Max Rose (D-NY, 11th)
March 27, 2020
“In the scariest of times and darkest of days, our City’s Finest and Bravest continue to show up and put their lives on the line,” Rose said. “We need to do all that we can and then some to keep them and those in the community they serve safe and healthy. In times of emergency and disaster like we’re facing, there’s no excuse for not spending whatever is necessary to protect our cops, firefighters and first responders.”
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Rose Supports Relief Package, Calls Out Pork
Source: U.S. Representative John W. Rose (R-TN, 6th)
March 27, 2020
“For those in this Congress who have used this crisis to loot the public treasury and serve special interests above the common good,” Rose continued, “I trust that our people and history will judge you as harshly as you deserve.”
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Rep. Chip Roy released the following statement on the “Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act”
Source: U.S. Representative Chip Roy (R-TX, 21st)
March 27, 2020
This bill provides needed relief for the many Central Texas small businesses – restaurants, hotels, music venues, bars, and others – suffering through the government-mandated “social distancing” period. I want to make sure workers in the 21st Congressional District of Texas have jobs to return to once we defeat coronavirus. And defeat it we will.
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Roe Supports the CARES Act to Help Struggling Americans
Source: U.S. Representative Phil Roe (R-TN, 1st)
March 27, 2020
"This pandemic is affecting Americans across the country in every way possible – emotionally, physically and financially. I strongly support the CARES Act to help Americans struggling because of the unprecedented response we are undertaking to stop the spread of this deadly virus. This is not a typical economic recovery package because never before has our country shut down our economy intentionally. I am grateful for President Trump’s leadership and the work of the brave men and women in our public health community working around the clock to keep Americans safe. East Tennesseans should know their government will take whatever actions are necessary to ensure we restart and rebuild our economy as quickly as possible. This package is a major step in that direction. I hope it gives everyone the peace of mind that they can afford to stay safe during this critical period of social distancing and isolation, and help us in our effort to defeat this terrible threat to public health.”
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Dr. Ruiz Applauds Passage of Historic Families & Workers-First Coronavirus Legislation and the Emergency Relief it Sends to California
Source: U.S. Representative Raul Ruiz (D-CA, 36th)
March 27, 2020
“The CARES Act provides billions of dollars to assist health care workers, small business owners, workers, and families in our community to weather the storm,” said Dr. Ruiz. “It is an unprecedented amount of money for an unprecedented pandemic. I voted for it because we need the assistance NOW! I will continue to problem-solve and push the envelope to best prepare and protect our communities and advocate for more support.”
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Rep. Roybal-Allard Applauds Passage of Historic Families & Workers-First Coronavirus Legislation and Its Emergency Relief for California
Source: U.S. Representative Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA, 40th)
March 27, 2020
“I am proud to support the CARES Act, a historic piece of legislation, as part of House Democrats’ ongoing effort to bring urgently needed relief to families, workers, and small businesses in our 40th District and across America,” said Rep. Roybal-Allard. “While this legislation is a crucial step in the right direction, more still needs to be done. As Americans nationwide face uncertainty about their physical and financial well-being, I will keep fighting for additional policies that save lives and support our nation’s families, workers, and small businesses. Congress must ensure all Americans have the comfort of knowing that the government is there for them. This requires a coordinated, fully-funded, whole-of-government response. I am pleased that thanks to the hard work of Congressional Democrats, including our amazing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the Senate’s corporate-focused coronavirus bill was turned into a bipartisan bill that puts the needs of America’s workers ahead of corporations. I will keep fighting alongside my Democratic colleagues and across the aisle to put Families and Workers First, including immigrant families and workers who did not receive relief from this bill to stay healthy and make ends meet.
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Rep. Pressley, Massachusetts Lawmakers Urge USDA to Fully Reimburse School Districts and After-School Programs Providing Free Meals to Kids During COVID-19 Pandemic
Source: U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA, 7th)
March 27, 2020
"Schools and communities are acting urgently and creatively to adapt to this unprecedented threat, and we ask you to support their efforts without delay," the lawmakers wrote. "We request that you immediately use (your) authority to empower meal providers to adapt to their local conditions and needs in this unique time, and to guarantee reimbursement to all providers who are working to meet the needs of hungry children during this crisis."
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RUPPERSBERGER SUPPORTS SWEEPING EMERGENCY CORONAVIRUS RELIEF PACKAGE FOR MARYLANDERS
Source: U.S. Representative Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD, 2nd)
March 27, 2020
“This package will save lives and livelihoods,” Congressman Ruppersberger said. “It’s about addressing the immediate concerns of treating sick people and making sure our nation’s economy can bounce back when the pandemic is over. This is a family-first compromise bill that we can all be proud to support.”
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Rutherford Applauds House Passage of CARES Act
Source: U.S. Representative John Rutherford (R-FL, 4th)
March 27, 2020
“As the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread across our country, Congress knew we would need to put aside partisan politics and come together to deliver prompt relief for the American people,” said Rep. Rutherford. “While the bipartisan legislation we passed today is not the bill I would have written, it is the best that could be negotiated. It will deliver immediate, critical assistance to health care heroes on the front lines and support individual workers and small businesses negatively impacted by the coronavirus. America is resilient in times of crisis – today’s challenges are no exception. Thank you to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for getting this done.”
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Senator David Perdue Discusses Coronavirus Relief On Georgia Radio
Source: Senator David Perdue (R-GA)
March 27, 2020
U.S. Senator David Perdue (R-GA) today joined Morning Talk With Martha Zoller on WDUN Radio to discuss the Senate’s action to stabilize the U.S. economy and support workers and employers during the coronavirus crisis.
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Dr. Rand Paul Sends Letter to President Trump Urging Support for Kentucky Disaster Declaration Request
Source: U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA, 7th)
March 26, 2020
“I respectfully urge you to promptly consider this request by Governor Beshear. Additionally, I ask that you work to expedite delivery of the 100,000 test kits and 5,000 swabs that have been requested by the Commonwealth of Kentucky,” he continued.
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MCMORRIS RODGERS JOINS LETTER TO ASK FOR SUPPORT FOR FARMERS DURING CORONAVIRUS
Source: U.S. Representative Cathy Rodgers McMorris (R-WA, 5th)
March 24, 2020
In the letter, Cathy and 26 other lawmakers said, “As you work to continue mitigating the impacts of this emergency on our nation’s agriculture industry, we ask that you include targeted relief for the specialty crop industry. Such relief will not only help producers who are facing significant financial challenges but also support efforts to provide food and nutrition assistance to the most vulnerable members of our communities.”
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Roe, Schrier Lead Introduction of Bipartisan Immediate Relief for Rural Facilities and Providers Act of 2020
Source: U.S. Representative Phil Roe (R-TN, 1st)
March 24, 2020
“Hospitals and health care providers in rural America already struggle to keep their doors open, and the COVID-19 crisis is only making that harder. During a pandemic, it is critical our rural hospitals remain open to ensure all Americans – no matter where they live – have access to quality health care. We must also ensure individual doctors and small group medical practices are able to weather the storm and reopen once this crisis ends. I am proud to introduce this legislation to provide immediate relief to rural health facilities and providers so they have the resources needed to care for patients during and after the COVID-19 crisis,” said Rep. Roe.
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Dr. Ruiz’s Bill Would Require Health Plans to Cover All COVID-19 Treatment
Source: U.S. Representative Raul Ruiz (D-CA, 36th)
March 24, 2020
Dr. Ruiz announced the introduction of the Care for COVID-19 Act, which would require health plans to cover diagnostic and treatment services related to COVID-19, at no cost to the patient. The bill also would create a special enrollment period for individuals who are impacted by COVID-19 to ensure that patients who are eligible for marketplace health plans would be able to enroll. The bill was introduced alongside Rep. Malinowski (NJ-07)
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Senator David Perdue Salutes COVID-19 Critical Care Workers
Source: Senator David Perdue (R-GA)
March 23, 2020
“The best of America always comes out during moments of crisis,” said Senator Perdue. “It’s encouraging to see so many Georgians and Americans stepping up to help their neighbors, support their communities, and care for those in need. In these uncertain times, one thing rings true: no virus will ever break the American spirit.”
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Rep. Porter Introduces Bill to Help Older Adults During Coronavirus Emergency
Source: U.S. Representative Katie Porter (D-CA, 45th)
March 23, 2020
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults age 65 years and older are at higher risk for severe illness. Porter’s legislation would allocate an additional $300 million to fund service coordinators that assist seniors.
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Reps. Pressley & Tlaib Introduce Legislation to Protect Individuals Experiencing Homelessness During COVID-19 Public Health Crisis
Source: U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA, 7th)
March 23, 2020
“Housing is a critical determinant of public health, and that has never been more true than during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “We have a moral obligation to protect the health and safety of all people, particularly our most vulnerable. By investing $15.5 billion in emergency grants to state and local governments, the Public Health Emergency Shelter Act will ensure that frontline workers have the resources and support they need to protect the health and safety of the nearly 500,000 people across this country experiencing homelessness. In these unprecedented times, this bill boldly affirms that poverty is not a character flaw, and nobody deserves less because they can’t afford more.”
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Statement from Senator Rand Paul
Source: Senator Rand Paul (R - KY)
March 23, 2020
“I believe we need more testing immediately, even among those without symptoms. The nature of COVID-19 put me – and us all – in a Catch-22 situation. I didn’t fit the criteria for testing or quarantine. I had no symptoms and no specific encounter with a COVID-19 positive person. I had, however, traveled extensively in the U.S. and was required to continue doing so to vote in the Senate. That, together with the fact that I have a compromised lung, led me to seek testing. Despite my positive test result, I remain asymptomatic for COVID-19."
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Kvellix LLC Offering Free NUTSO™ to Help Maintain Our National Family Sanity
Source: PR.com
March 23, 2020
Kvellix LLC, the makers of NUTSO™, a family poker styled card game, wants to do its share in keeping every family entertained during these trying times. Feeling the need to do something to overcome social distancing; Kvellix wants to help families create a new normal by gathering around the kitchen table and play NUTSO. To do this, Kvellix has two “NUTSO” related announcements that will help bring back some needed family sanity.

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Rogers on Pelosi Putting Politics Ahead of American Families
Source: U.S. Representative Mike Rogers (R-AL, 3rd)
March 24, 2020
"Speaker Pelosi is more obsessed with putting her extreme liberal political wish list together than helping American families across our country who are struggling during this world crisis. She is making socialist demands that have nothing to do with stopping this deadly virus and stemming economic harm to families. All Americans should be extremely disappointed in Speaker Pelosi and her liberal allies for putting petty politics ahead of doing the job they were elected to do.
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Sen. Coons, Colleagues Call for ACTION to Expand Opportunities for National Service

Source: Senator Christopher A .Coons - (D - DE)

Washington, D.C. - November 4, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- In an effort to tackle national priorities and help young Americans strengthen their communities and our nation while reducing the burden of student debt, U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Jack Reed (D-RI), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the America’s Call To Improve Opportunities Now (ACTION) for National Service Act. The bill would increase opportunities for service across the country and provide young Americans with the chance to select a service program in a variety of fields. In exchange for their national service, students would get help paying for college.

The ACTION for National Service Act calls for elevating the Corporation for National and Community Service to a cabinet-level agency and providing resources to help support up to one million national service positions annually, enhancing participation in notable national service programs such as AmeriCorps and Senior Corps.

Currently, about one percent of Americans serve in either the military or a national service program. Retired General Stanley A. McChrystal, who serves as Chairman of the Board for the nonprofit Service Year Alliance, has stated that expanding national service options could go a long way toward uniting Americans and bridging the military-civilian divide by fostering a better understanding of shared sacrifice. General McChrystal noted: “Right now, less than one percent of our population serves in the military and, in my view, we need to rethink and create a system where young Americans have an opportunity to serve their nation in other ways. We need to create a culture of service where we are all invested in our nation's future and feel a shared sense of responsibility to our nation and to each other.”

Since 1994, over 1 million individuals have served through the AmeriCorps program, and roughly 245,000 seniors over the age of 55 volunteer annually through the Senior Corps programs. These individuals have addressed critical community needs in education, economic development, health, and many other areas, coming to their fellow citizens’ aid in times of national disaster, including thousands who have been deployed in the wake of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. The bill seeks to enhance the nation’s capacity to support all those who want to serve their communities and the nation.

“Expanding national service opportunities for young Americans strengthens our communities, broadens the worldview of our next generation of American leaders, and instills in our young men and women a sense of pride in themselves and their country that can only be gained through giving back,” said Senator Coons. “As we work to make college more accessible and give our young people the opportunities they deserve to succeed, national service has to be part of the equation. I’m excited to introduce this bill and expand the impact of national service in the United States.”

“As Americans, we take inspiration from those who have answered the call to serve, whether in defense of our nation abroad or to strengthen our communities at home. This bill will grow our capacity to enlist, equip, and empower young people to address pressing challenges and give back to our nation while they earn money toward their education. It will increase volunteerism and strengthen our nation,” said Senator Reed. “Today, young people are eager to find ways to serve, and we need to do a better job of providing them with opportunities to give back. This willingness to make common cause with our fellow citizens and serve a purpose greater than ourselves is a hallmark of our nation. It’s also crucial that we invest in the education and professional development of those who have sacrificed and given so much to our nation. That’s why I’m pleased to introduce this legislation with my colleagues to help ensure that every American who wants to serve has the opportunity to do so, as well as future opportunities to get an education and build a better life. I commend Congressmen Larson, Lewis, and Kennedy for their leadership on this issue and longstanding commitment to expanding national service opportunities for all.”

“From the corners of Connecticut to disaster relief zones in Puerto Rico, I have seen the invaluable impact of individuals who have answered the call for their country with fundamentally American acts of service,” said Senator Blumenthal. “National volunteer service programs improve the lives of all Americans by protecting the environment, strengthening education, responding to disasters, supporting public health and safety, and providing assistance to at-risk communities. I am proud to support the ACTION for National Service Act, which would elevate and protect the spirit of service embodied in AmeriCorps and other federal service programs to inspire a new class of young leaders nationwide.”

Specifically, the ACTION for National Service Act:

• Gives all those who wish to serve the opportunity to do so by providing the necessary federal funding to support at least one million service positions nationwide.

• Significantly reduces student loan debt burdens by ensuring that individuals who serve two full terms of service are rewarded with an education benefit equivalent to four years of the average in-state tuition at a public, four-year college. Current law limits the award's value to the maximum amount of a Federal Pell Grant at the time of the individual’s service.

• Makes the education benefit free from federal taxation. Currently, education benefits count as income for tax purposes.

• Elevates the existing Corporation of National and Community Service (CNCS) to a Cabinet-level federal agency, and appoints a Director of National Service with the same rank as Cabinet Secretaries. Existing CNCS programs like AmeriCorps and Senior Corps would be preserved and strengthened.

• Maintains the authority and programmatic responsibilities of state and local boards to direct federal resources to best meet community needs and be responsive to local priorities.

• Allows participants in programs outside of existing CNCS programs to be evaluated for eligibility for enhanced education benefits.

• Establishes a National Service Foundation to encourage private sector and philanthropic investment in expanding national service opportunities.

U.S. Representatives John B. Larson (D-CT), John Lewis (D-GA), and Joe Kennedy III (D-MA) have introduced similar legislation, the ACTION for National Service Act (H.R. 3140), in the U.S. House of Representatives.


See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site

New Bipartisan Bill Will Benefit Student Borrowers, Taxpayers by Promoting Competition Amongst Student Loan Servicers

Washington, D.C. - August 1, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senators Roy Blunt (Mo.), Elizabeth Warren (Mass.), James Lankford (Okla.), and Jeanne Shaheen (N.H.) introduced the bipartisan Student Loan Servicer Performance Accountability Act. The legislation would benefit student loan borrowers and taxpayers by protecting and strengthening performance-based accountability of federal student loan servicers through greater competition and stronger oversight.

“Maintaining choice and competition amongst student loan servicers is the best way to ensure they will continue improving services for student borrowers,” Blunt said. “This bill will strengthen the performance-based incentives we have now, and prevent any one student loan servicer from becoming so large it poses a risk to taxpayers. I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan, commonsense measure.”

“The federal government has a responsibility to make sure student loan servicing is working for student borrowers and for taxpayers. The Education Department’s plan to switch to a single servicer for its trillion-dollar loan portfolio heads in the wrong direction and could create a ‘too big to fail’ federal contractor,” Warren said. “Our bipartisan bill will ensure that there is real competition in student loan servicing and that servicers are held accountable for serving student borrowers effectively.”

“The Department of Education’s plan to reduce the number of contracted student loan servicers to just one would reduce the quality of assistance, make it harder for borrowers to manage their debt, and ultimately hurt our students, their families and our economy,” Shaheen said. “The Student Loan Servicer Performance Accountability Act will ensure strong competition and oversight so that students have high quality service so they can make informed decisions about their loan and repayment options.”

“The Student Loan Servicer Accountability Act is a commonsense bill that temporarily suspends the US Department of Education from awarding a servicing contract to a sole provider for all student loans owned by the US Department of Education,” Lankford said. “As the nation’s student loan debt continues to grow, we need to enact measures that will ensure students have all the resources available to them so they can repay their loans and get good customer service. Moving to a single federal student loan servicer would not accomplish this goal because it eliminates performance-based competition that incentivizes improved service for students. I look forward to working with my colleagues on this bipartisan legislation to prevent any disruption in service for borrowers to pay back their student loan debt.”

The current federal student loan servicing contracts expire in 2019. In May 2017, the Department of Education released a revised plan for the servicing competition that would reduce the number of federal student loan servicers from nine to one servicer for the entire trillion-dollar federal direct loan portfolio. This plan would limit the Department’s ability to ensure high-quality service to student borrowers.

The Student Loan Servicer Performance Accountability Act would:

Cancel the Department of Education’s current competition for a single federal student loan servicer;

Ensure performance-based competition in federal student loan servicing by requiring the participation of multiple servicers that contract directly with the Department of Education;

Promote competition by requiring the Department of Education to allocate loans to servicers based on measures of their performance, including scores on borrower satisfaction; and

Prohibit the Department of Education from awarding all federal student loans to a single federal student loan servicer and creating a federal student loan monopoly.

Small Business, London Attack, Trumpcare, Obamacare, Keystone XL Pipeline, Planned Parenthood, Black Communities, Women, Students, Addiction, Identity Theft, Agriculture

Loudermilk Supports Small Business/Lower Cost Health Insurance for Employees
Barry Loudermilk (R-GA, 11th)
March 22, 2017
“For 15 of the 20 years I owned a small business, my employees received affordable health insurance through a group plan. However, even though my employees were promised they could keep their existing health care plan under the ACA, the government determined their insurance wasn't good enough and forced them into more expensive plans with less coverage. Obamacare was a complete disaster for my employees and my business. The House has passed legislation that will allow businesses to join together to form group health insurance plans for their employees. As promised, we are removing government restrictions, giving these business owners freedom to negotiate lower costs of health care for their employees.”
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UTAHN KILLED IN TERROR ATTACK IN LONDON: REP. LOVE STATEMENT
Mia Love (R-UT, 4th)
March 23, 2017
"I am heartbroken to hear about the violent death of Kurt Cochran and the serious injury of his wife Melissa in London Wednesday. This kind of vicious terrorist attack cannot be tolerated. We, as Utahns are united in grief and loss, and our thoughts and prayers go out to their friends and family."
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LOWEY STATEMENT ON LONDON ATTACK
Nita Lowey (D-NY, 17th)
March 22, 2017
"Today’s evil attack on Great Britain is horrifying, and I condemn it in the strongest possible terms. It is still too early to determine what exactly occurred, but it is clear that those responsible must be brought to justice immediately. The special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom has endured for generations, and I will continue working to ensure that we fully supports our friends in their investigation of this apparent act of terror. My thoughts and prayers are with the people of London and the victims of this senseless attack."
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Luetkemeyer Supports Bill to Help Small Businesses and Workers Receive Affordable Health-Care
Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MI, 3rd)
March 21, 2017
“Over the last several years, the number of small business, with fewer than 10 employees, offering health insurance to their employees has dropped by almost 36 percent – in large part due to Obamacare,” Luetkemeyer said. “By creating these Association Health Plans for small businesses to purchase quality health care for workers and families at an affordable cost, the House of Representatives has taken the next step in the repeal and repeal process."
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LUJAN STATEMENT ON THE POSTPONED HOUSE VOTE ON TRUMPCARE
Ben R. Lujan (D-NM, 3rd)
March 23, 2017
“President Trump and Congressional Republicans hatched a bill in a back room and tried to slip it through the House with no hearings before anyone – even members of their own party – were able to understand the details,” said Lujan. “And when those details did come out – the fact that this bill strips health insurance from millions of Americans, increases the cost of premiums and deductibles, and creates a crushing age tax on Americans over 50 – President Trump, Speaker Paul Ryan and House Republicans got caught pulling a fast one on the American people.”
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Politifact: Rep. Maloney Claim that More than Half of Planned Parenthood Centers Serve Rural or Medically Underserved Communities is True
Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
March 24, 2017
“Americans need to know how much damage taking away funding from Planned Parenthood would cause, which is why I took to the floorto urge my colleagues to vote no on the Republican American Health Care Act. Planned Parenthood provides services to so many men and women who would otherwise be unable to access care. A vote for this bill, a vote to defund Planned Parenthood, is a vote to endanger the health of millions of Americans.”
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Maloney Introduces Federal Legislation to Combat Heroin and Opioid Epidemic
Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY, 18th)
March 20, 2017
In response to the heroin and opioid epidemic, Representative Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) joined Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro and City of Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison in Poughkeepsie to introduce federal legislation to combat the opioid and heroin crisis and stop mass incarceration of abusers and low-level drug offenders nationwide. By allowing police officers to use their discretion to divert individuals directly to treatment instead of booking them and processing them through the criminal justice system, these programs give police officers the flexibility they need to help curb the growing opioid epidemic, decrease low-level drug crime, and reduce the number of low-level drug related arrests.
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MARCHANT INTRODUCES LEGISLATION PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM IDENTITY THEFT
Kenny Marchant (R-TX, 24th)
March 15, 2017
U.S. Congressmen Kenny Marchant (R-TX-24) and Lloyd Doggett (D-TX-35) introduced the Social Security Child Protection Act (HR 1512). The legislation allows the Social Security Administration (SSA) to issue a new Social Security Number (SSN) to children age 13 and under who have had their SSN stolen due to inadvertent disclosure.
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Rep. McCaul and Sens. Moran, Ernst Introduce Legislation to Support Young People in Agriculture
Michael T. McCaul (R-TX, 10th)
March 21, 2017
U.S. Representative Michael McCaul (R-Texas) and U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) today introduced legislation to support young people in agriculture by creating a tax exemption for the first $5,000 of income students 18 years of age or younger earn from projects completed through 4-H or FFA. Their bills, the Student Agriculture Protection Act (SAPA) (H.R. 1626) and the Agriculture Students Encourage, Acknowledge, Reward, Nurture (EARN) Act (S. 671), enable students to keep more of the modest income they earn, which can then be invested in education savings or future agricultural projects.
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Repeal and Replace
Tom McClintock (R-CA, 4th)
March 21, 2017
Any discussion of the American Health Care Act needs first to consider where we will be without it. Obamacare is collapsing. More people are paying the steep tax penalty or claiming hardship exemptions than are choosing to buy Obamacare policies. In a third of the counties across America, there is only one provider to choose and soon we will see counties where there are no providers at all. Obamacare premiums soared an average of 25 percent last year, and we’re warned this year will be worse.
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McCollum Floor Remarks Opposing TrumpCare
Betty McCollum (D-MN, 4th)
March 24, 2017
Mr. Speaker, TrumpCare is a disaster for children, families, seniors, and people with disabilities.
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McGovern: Taking Healthcare Away Requires a Heart of Stone
James McGovern (D-MA, 2nd)
March 24, 2017
U.S. Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), the top Democrat leading debate today against the American Health Care Act, delivered the following speech on the House floor in an appeal to the compassion of both Republicans and Democrats to stand up for the families they represent and stop this dangerous bill from becoming law.
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Rep. McSally Secures $15 Billion in the AHCA for Maternity Care, Substance Abuse Treatment, and Mental Health Care
Martha McSally (R-AZ, 2nd)
March 23, 2017
U.S. Representatives Martha McSally (AZ-02) worked with House Republican Leadership and the Trump Administration to further improve the American Health Care Act (AHCA). She successfully negotiated to provide states, through the Patient and State Stability Fund, with supplemental funding so they have the ability to obtain additional resources that will provide new mothers and those struggling with mental and substance abuse disorders access to care while the nation transitions to the new health care system. House leadership and the White House has agreed to incorporate these changes into the AHCA.
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Meehan, DelBene Introduce HELP for Students and Parents Act
Pat Meehan (R-PA, 7th)
March 22, 2017
Congressman Patrick Meehan (R-Pa.) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-Wa.) this week introduced the Higher Education Loan Payments (HELP) for Students and Parents Act, bipartisan legislation that will make college more affordable by modernizing how the tax code treats employer contributions toward student loan repayment.
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House Passes Meng Legislation Honoring 100th Anniversary of First Woman Sworn-Into Congress
Grace Meng (D-NY, 6th)
March 21, 2017
As the nation continues its observance of Women’s History Month, the House of Representatives passed legislation sponsored by U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) that would honor the 100th anniversary of the first woman sworn-into Congress, former Rep. Jeannette Rankin (R-Montana).
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MITCHELL STATEMENT ON AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT VOTE TODAY
Paul Mitchell (R MI, 10th)
March 24, 2017
“Like many of my colleagues, I ran for Congress with the promise of fixing our broken health care system. The American Health Care Act is an important step toward restoring health care in America.
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Moore Meets with Trump to Discuss Issues Facing Black Communities
Gwen Moore (D-WI, 4th)
March 23, 2017
“We met with President Trump to express our concerns over a disturbing trend of disregard for our communities and to convey our collective alarm over his proposed budget and policy agenda. I entered the meeting with a healthy dose of skepticism and left the White House with a sense of cautious optimism, but only time will tell if the president and his advisors are willing to take action on our recommendations. For the sake of every constituent who is far too familiar with the sting of racism and discrimination, living in communities that are underserved and overpoliced, I truly hope our words didn’t fall on deaf ears."
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Congressman Nadler Speaks in Opposition to Republican’s “Pay More, Get Less” Health Care Proposal
Jerrold Nadler (D-NY, 10th)
March 24, 2017
Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) spoke in opposition to the House Republican’s proposed American Health Care Act, which throws 24 million Americans off their health insurance while raising heath care costs. For New York, the Republican bill would take away health care from 2.7 million people, costing State taxpayers $6.9 billion in additional costs.
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Noem: Keystone XL Opens Opportunities for South Dakota
Kristi Noem (R-South Dakota)
March 24, 2017
“Access to energy is central to improving our national security and building a more robust economy that offers better jobs and higher wages. Not only does the Keystone XL Pipeline offer these large-scale benefits for our country, its construction will translate into added revenue for cash-strapped South Dakota counties, relief on our roads and rails, and job opportunities for folks across our state. I’m glad to see President Trump move forward on this critical piece of American infrastructure.”
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Congressman Norcross Demands Republicans Reinstate Addiction Coverage in TrumpCare Bill
Donald Norcross (D-NJ, 1st)
March 24, 2017
As Republicans in Congress debated changes to their health care bill, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today led a group of Representatives petitioning President Donald Trump to reverse provisions that would threaten coverage for drug addiction treatment.
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Norton to Introduce Legislation to Collect and Publish National Demographic Data on Missing Children
Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.)
March 24, 2017
“Congress has long recognized that missing children is a national problem,” Norton said. “In 2013, Congress required the Department of Justice to conduct every three years national incidence studies of missing children. Such a study is now underway. However, my bill would require the Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to collect, break down, and publish demographic subsets of these missing children. It is critical that the public know if there is a disproportionate number of missing children of color, particularly missing girls of color, which we believe is an underreported national problem. Experts need to first measure the incidences, and then study whether children have been trafficked, abducted, are running away, or are missing for other reasons, and what they recommend we can do about it.”
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Firearms, Healthcare, Students, Immigration, Wiretap, Military

Griffith, Hatch, Introduce Legislation to Improve Firearm Transportation Laws
Morgan Griffith (R-VA, 9th)
March 20, 2017
Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) and Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) have introduced legislation to address a critical gap in U.S. law related to the transportation of firearms. Under current regulations, many law-abiding Americans unwittingly violate disparate rules governing the transportation of firearms across state lines. Griffith and Hatch’s bills would amend the Firearm Owners Protection Act of 1986 to clarify a number of key provisions.
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Grijalva Re-Introduces Legislation to Encourage Nutrition, Disease Prevention in Healthcare
Raul Grijalva (D-AZ, 3rd)
March 20, 2017
Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ) today reintroduced legislation for the third consecutive Congress that would encourage a stronger focus on nutrition and disease prevention in continuing medical education. The Education and Training (EAT) for Health Act directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to issue guidelines that ensure federally employed primary care providers learn more about the role nutrition can play in preventing cancer, diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease. While physicians are already required to earn a set number of continuing medical education credit hours each year, Grijalva’s bill would help ensure that federally employed providers spend a portion of those hours learning about nutrition.
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Guthrie, Bonamici Reintroduce Bipartisan Student Financial Literacy Bill
Brett S. Guthrie (R-KY, 2nd)
March 20, 2017
Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), chairman of the Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee, and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Vice Ranking Member of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, today reintroduced the Empowering Students Through Enhanced Financial Counseling Act.
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GUTIÉRREZ ON HOMELAND SECURITY INITIATIVE TO SHAME STATE & LOCAL POLICE OVER IMMIGRATION POLICIES
Luis Gutierrez (D-IL, 4th)
March 20, 2017
Rep. Luis V. Gutiérrez (D-IL) issued the following statement today in response to the Department of Homeland Security’s announcement that they would begin publishing the “Declined Detainer Outcome Report,” (http://bit.ly/2nsx1c7) a report designated by one of Trump’s executive orders to shame state and local police departments who do not routinely hold immigrant prisoners without a federal warrant. By enumerating crimes committed by immigrants who were not held in violation of the Fourth Amendment until federal authorities came to deport them, the Trump Administration hopes to further attack so-called “sanctuary cities” that draw a bright line between local public safety activities and federal deportation activities.
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US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PERMANENT SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE HEARS FROM FBI DIRECTOR JAMES COMEY AND NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY DIRECTOR MIKE ROGERS
Colleen Hanabusa, (D-HI, 1st)
March 20, 2017
The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence heard from FBI Director James Comey and National Security Agency Director Mike Rogers today. FBI Director Comey testified that “[w]ith respect to the president’s tweets about alleged wiretapping directed at him by the prior administration, I have no information that supports those tweets and we have looked carefully inside the FBI.” NSA Director Mike Rogers testified similarly and also refuted that President Obama asked British intelligence to intercept Trump’s communications. Both men characterized Russia as an adversary clearly interested in undermining the United States in many ways.
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Hartzler on Increase to Fort Leonard Wood Combat Training Mission
Vicky Hartzler (R-MO, 4th)
March 20, 2017
Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-Harrisonville) issued the following statement regarding the Army’s announcement it will increase troop levels for fiscal year 2017, increasing the number of soldiers expected to go through basic combat training at Fort Leonard Wood:
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