Washington, D.C. - December 5, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- The United States Supreme Court ruled President Trump’s travel pause may go forward while appeals continue.
Lou Barletta (R-PA, 11th) released the following statement:
“President Trump is fighting to prevent terrorists from entering the American homeland. The Supreme Court made the right decision. Those who oppose the actions our president is taking to keep American citizens safe are fighting against the man, not the policy. Until radical Islamic terrorism ceases to threaten the United States, I will continue to support President Trump’s clear authority to use all legal tools at his disposal to prevent terrorists from entering the American homeland.”
PEN America Washington Director Gabe Rottman released the following statement:
“At most, this is a temporary victory for the administration. Challenges to this unprecedented, divisive, and cruel Muslim ban will continue to work their way through the courts, and we will fight to ensure that every American can exercise their constitutional right to meet face-to-face with writers and artists from around the world. We should be a beacon for the free flow of ideas, and a haven for those who are persecuted for their beliefs, not a country that tears families apart for no reason other than hate and spite.”
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
The Unpopular Truth
Showing posts with label Travel Ban. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel Ban. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Thursday, November 23, 2017
Court Order on Presidential Proclamation on Visas November 13, 2017
Washington, D.C. - November 23, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- On November 13, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit granted, in part, the government’s motion for an emergency stay of the U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii’s October 17, preliminary injunction. The preliminary injunction prohibited the U.S. government from enforcing or implementing Sections 2(a), (b), (c), (e), (g), and (h) of Presidential Proclamation 9645, “Enhancing Vetting Capabilities and Processes for Detecting Attempted Entry into the United States by Terrorists or other Public-Safety Threats.” Under the Ninth Circuit’s ruling, the earlier preliminary injunction is stayed, except as to “foreign nationals who have a credible claim of a bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States.” In light of the Ninth Circuit’s ruling, visa applicants who are nationals of Chad, Iran, Libya, Syria, Somalia, and Yemen and do not have a credible claim of a bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States are now subject to the applicable visa restrictions under the Presidential Proclamation. Consequently, any applicants who lack such a claim, if found otherwise eligible for a visa, will be denied under the Proclamation, unless they are exempt or qualify for a waiver under the Proclamation. The court orders did not affect Sections (d) and (f) of the Proclamation, so nationals from North Korea and Venezuela remain subject to the restrictions and limitations listed in the Presidential Proclamation, which went into effect at 12:01 a.m. EDT on Wednesday, October 18, 2017, with respect to nationals of those countries.
Additional Background: The President issued Presidential Proclamation 9645 on September 24, 2017. Per Section 2 of Executive Order 13780 of March 6, 2017 (Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States), a global review was conducted to determine what additional information is needed from each foreign country to assess whether foreign nationals who seek to enter the United States pose a security or safety threat. As part of that review, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) developed a comprehensive set of criteria to evaluate the information-sharing practices, policies, and capabilities of foreign governments on a worldwide basis. At the end of that review, which included a 50-day period of engagement with foreign governments aimed at improving their information sharing practices, there were seven countries whose information sharing practices were determined to be “inadequate” and for which the President deemed it necessary to impose certain restrictions on the entry of nonimmigrants and immigrants who are nationals of these countries. The President also deemed it necessary to impose restrictions on one country due to the "special concerns" it presented. These restrictions are considered important to addressing the threat these existing information-sharing deficiencies, among other things, present to the security and welfare of the United States and pressuring host governments to remedy these deficiencies.
Nationals of the eight countries are subject to various travel restrictions contained in the Proclamation, as outlined in the following table, subject to exceptions and waivers set forth in the Proclamation. In addition, under applicable court orders, applicants from Chad, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen who have a credible claim of a bona fide relationship with either a person or an entity in the United States are exempt from the restrictions in the Proclamation. Consequently, if the requirements for a particular visa classification include that the applicant have a bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States, then applicants qualifying for visas of those classifications are exempt from the Proclamation, based on the court orders.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Additional Background: The President issued Presidential Proclamation 9645 on September 24, 2017. Per Section 2 of Executive Order 13780 of March 6, 2017 (Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States), a global review was conducted to determine what additional information is needed from each foreign country to assess whether foreign nationals who seek to enter the United States pose a security or safety threat. As part of that review, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) developed a comprehensive set of criteria to evaluate the information-sharing practices, policies, and capabilities of foreign governments on a worldwide basis. At the end of that review, which included a 50-day period of engagement with foreign governments aimed at improving their information sharing practices, there were seven countries whose information sharing practices were determined to be “inadequate” and for which the President deemed it necessary to impose certain restrictions on the entry of nonimmigrants and immigrants who are nationals of these countries. The President also deemed it necessary to impose restrictions on one country due to the "special concerns" it presented. These restrictions are considered important to addressing the threat these existing information-sharing deficiencies, among other things, present to the security and welfare of the United States and pressuring host governments to remedy these deficiencies.
Nationals of the eight countries are subject to various travel restrictions contained in the Proclamation, as outlined in the following table, subject to exceptions and waivers set forth in the Proclamation. In addition, under applicable court orders, applicants from Chad, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen who have a credible claim of a bona fide relationship with either a person or an entity in the United States are exempt from the restrictions in the Proclamation. Consequently, if the requirements for a particular visa classification include that the applicant have a bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States, then applicants qualifying for visas of those classifications are exempt from the Proclamation, based on the court orders.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Saturday, October 28, 2017
American Bar Association Responds to AG Sessions comments criticizing judges
Source: American Bar Association
Washington, D.C. - October 28, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The American Bar Association is alarmed by the remarks made Thursday by Attorney General Jeff Sessions about federal judges, accusing those he disagrees with of ruling on policy preference and not the law.
Ironically, Sessions complains that judges are not respecting the separation of powers and the concept of co-equal branches of government while at the same time himself disregarding the constitutional independence of the judicial branch.
Sessions said that “some judges have failed to respect our representatives in Congress and failed to appropriately respect the prerogatives and perspectives of the executive branch.” The judiciary rules on matters based on the laws and the Constitution. Their oath is “to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States” and not to protect “the prerogatives and perspectives” of the executive branch.
The courts are an important part of the justice system. While criticism of judicial decisions is a constitutionally protected right of every American and embedded in our tradition of free and open discussion about government, judges should not be attacked or diminished by another branch of government just because they do not rule in its favor. Judicial independence is critical to maintaining the rule of law in our nation.
Go to www.abalegalfactcheck.com for the ABA’s new feature that cites case and statutory law and other legal precedents to distinguish legal fact from fiction.
With more than 400,000 members, the American Bar Association is one of the largest voluntary professional membership organizations in the world. As the national voice of the legal profession, the ABA works to improve the administration of justice, promotes programs that assist lawyers and judges in their work, accredits law schools, provides continuing legal education, and works to build public understanding around the world of the importance of the rule of law.
Related News:
AG Sessions on Hawaii District Judge Remarks: ‘I Wasn’t Criticizing the Judge or the Island’
Washington, D.C. - October 28, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The American Bar Association is alarmed by the remarks made Thursday by Attorney General Jeff Sessions about federal judges, accusing those he disagrees with of ruling on policy preference and not the law.
Ironically, Sessions complains that judges are not respecting the separation of powers and the concept of co-equal branches of government while at the same time himself disregarding the constitutional independence of the judicial branch.
Sessions said that “some judges have failed to respect our representatives in Congress and failed to appropriately respect the prerogatives and perspectives of the executive branch.” The judiciary rules on matters based on the laws and the Constitution. Their oath is “to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States” and not to protect “the prerogatives and perspectives” of the executive branch.
The courts are an important part of the justice system. While criticism of judicial decisions is a constitutionally protected right of every American and embedded in our tradition of free and open discussion about government, judges should not be attacked or diminished by another branch of government just because they do not rule in its favor. Judicial independence is critical to maintaining the rule of law in our nation.
Go to www.abalegalfactcheck.com for the ABA’s new feature that cites case and statutory law and other legal precedents to distinguish legal fact from fiction.
With more than 400,000 members, the American Bar Association is one of the largest voluntary professional membership organizations in the world. As the national voice of the legal profession, the ABA works to improve the administration of justice, promotes programs that assist lawyers and judges in their work, accredits law schools, provides continuing legal education, and works to build public understanding around the world of the importance of the rule of law.
Related News:
AG Sessions on Hawaii District Judge Remarks: ‘I Wasn’t Criticizing the Judge or the Island’
Friday, October 20, 2017
Blumenthal Statement on Federal Court Blocking - Again - Trump Muslim Travel Ban
Source: Senator Richard Blumenthal - (D - CT)
Washington, D.C. - October 20, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement today after a federal judge blocked President Trump’s third attempt at a travel ban that would prevent visitors to the United States from several majority-Muslim countries.
“A federal judge has again saved our nation from a discriminatory, demagogic travel ban. The Trump ban is both unconstitutional and unconscionable. An independent judiciary has upheld American values as well as American law. Out of the welter of judicial rulings should emerge a simple truth: the Trump attempts to discriminate based on religion violate the spirit and letter of the American Constitution. Rather than again demeaning or denouncing American judges, the President should accept this ruling and rescind the order immediately.”
Read more about the travel ban at The Ponder News by clicking HERE
Church World Service Statement on Hawaii’s Blocking of the Travel Ban
Washington, D.C. - October 20, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- After a federal judge in Hawaii blocked the latest version of President Trump’s travel ban, CWS President and CEO Reverend John L. McCullough issued the following statement:
“No legal or linguistic maneuvers by the Trump administration can disguise the travel ban’s discriminatory intent. Each rendition of this ban fuels President Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda and further obstructs our brothers and sisters from reaching safety and a better life –plain and simple. We’re heartened a federal judge in Hawaii again affirmed this truth in court. Today is yet another reminder that it’s high time for this White House to cease targeting immigrants and Muslims. As today’s ruling manifests again, there is no actual grounding to the travel ban but ignorance and baseless hostility.
Since 1946, Church World Service has supported refugees, immigrants and other displaced individuals, in addition to providing sustainable relief and development solutions to communities that wrestle with hunger and poverty.
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
White House slams decision to block travel ban
Washington, D.C. - October 17, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The White House released this statement after a Hawaii Judge blocked implementation of Trump's latest travel ban:
"Today’s dangerously flawed district court order undercuts the President’s efforts to keep the American people safe and enforce minimum security standards for entry into the United States. The Department of Justice will vigorously defend the President’s lawful action. The proclamation restricting travel was issued after an extensive worldwide security review by the Secretary of Homeland Security, and following consultation by the President with members of the Cabinet, including the Secretaries of Homeland Security, State, and Defense and the Attorney General. The entry restrictions in the proclamation apply to countries based on their inability or unwillingness to share critical information necessary to safely vet applications, as well as a threat assessment related to terrorism, instability, and other grave national security concerns. These restrictions are vital to ensuring that foreign nations comply with the minimum security standards required for the integrity of our immigration system and the security of our Nation. We are therefore confident that the Judiciary will ultimately uphold the President’s lawful and necessary action and swiftly restore its vital protections for the safety of the American people. "
Related News:
The Latest: White House slams decision to block travel ban
Fox News
"Today’s dangerously flawed district court order undercuts the President’s efforts to keep the American people safe and enforce minimum security standards for entry into the United States. The Department of Justice will vigorously defend the President’s lawful action. The proclamation restricting travel was issued after an extensive worldwide security review by the Secretary of Homeland Security, and following consultation by the President with members of the Cabinet, including the Secretaries of Homeland Security, State, and Defense and the Attorney General. The entry restrictions in the proclamation apply to countries based on their inability or unwillingness to share critical information necessary to safely vet applications, as well as a threat assessment related to terrorism, instability, and other grave national security concerns. These restrictions are vital to ensuring that foreign nations comply with the minimum security standards required for the integrity of our immigration system and the security of our Nation. We are therefore confident that the Judiciary will ultimately uphold the President’s lawful and necessary action and swiftly restore its vital protections for the safety of the American people. "
Related News:
The Latest: White House slams decision to block travel ban
Fox News
Monday, September 25, 2017
Trump Extends Travel Restrictions
Source: House Representative Lou Barletta (R-PA, 11th)
Source: The White House
Washington, D.C. - September 25, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11), a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, applauded President Trump’s announcement that he will be using his constitutional authority to strengthen security standards for foreign nationals traveling to the United States. President Trump’s enhancement of national security measures per Executive Order 13780 temporarily suspended travel to the United States from eight countries that have strong connections to terrorism, inadequate information sharing services, and poor screening and vetting processes. Five of the countries listed in the executive order have failed to improve their vetting processes to the administration’s baseline standard, and therefore restrictions will be maintained on foreign nationals traveling from these countries. In addition, after further review of our national security protocols, Chad, North Korea, and Venezuela have been added to the original five countries and will also face enhanced restrictions.
Barletta released the following statement:
“We are a compassionate nation, one built on legal and orderly immigration, and one which has always offered a place for people seeking better lives. However, our enemies continuously seek to use our generosity against us, and the president has a duty to protect the American people first. We know that ISIS has expressed their intent to use our refugee program to sneak their fighters and sympathizers into our country because our security measures are lacking. We cannot allow this.
“It is also important to recognize that citizens of foreign nations simply do not have the right to unfettered admission to the United States. In hearings before the House Homeland Security Committee under both the Obama and Trump administrations, numerous national security experts and professionals have stated that we simply cannot accurately screen all foreign nationals because we have no information from their home countries to verify their identities. In many cases, we have no idea who is trying to enter our country. I fully support President Trump’s actions to keep America safe, which I believe are only prudent as we work on a system that allows us to verify the identity and background of applicants.”
President Trump said in a press release announcing the restrictions:
“Our government's first duty is to its people, to our citizens -- to serve their needs, to ensure their safety, to preserve their rights, and to defend their values.”
Other statements:
Source: House Representative Don Beyer (D-VA, 8th)
“Donald Trump cannot camouflage his Muslim Ban by adding new countries to it. Its discriminatory roots are still plainly visible. This policy is an attempt to use racial and anti-religious animus to divide people for political ends.
As with previous bans, the Administration provides no evidence that they enhance public safety. Meanwhile, the ban continues to stigmatize millions of Muslim Americans, as well as our key allies in the war on terror.
This policy has been wrong from the start, it is wrong still, and I will continue to oppose it.”
Source: The White House
Washington, D.C. - September 25, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11), a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, applauded President Trump’s announcement that he will be using his constitutional authority to strengthen security standards for foreign nationals traveling to the United States. President Trump’s enhancement of national security measures per Executive Order 13780 temporarily suspended travel to the United States from eight countries that have strong connections to terrorism, inadequate information sharing services, and poor screening and vetting processes. Five of the countries listed in the executive order have failed to improve their vetting processes to the administration’s baseline standard, and therefore restrictions will be maintained on foreign nationals traveling from these countries. In addition, after further review of our national security protocols, Chad, North Korea, and Venezuela have been added to the original five countries and will also face enhanced restrictions.
Barletta released the following statement:
“We are a compassionate nation, one built on legal and orderly immigration, and one which has always offered a place for people seeking better lives. However, our enemies continuously seek to use our generosity against us, and the president has a duty to protect the American people first. We know that ISIS has expressed their intent to use our refugee program to sneak their fighters and sympathizers into our country because our security measures are lacking. We cannot allow this.
“It is also important to recognize that citizens of foreign nations simply do not have the right to unfettered admission to the United States. In hearings before the House Homeland Security Committee under both the Obama and Trump administrations, numerous national security experts and professionals have stated that we simply cannot accurately screen all foreign nationals because we have no information from their home countries to verify their identities. In many cases, we have no idea who is trying to enter our country. I fully support President Trump’s actions to keep America safe, which I believe are only prudent as we work on a system that allows us to verify the identity and background of applicants.”
President Trump said in a press release announcing the restrictions:
“Our government's first duty is to its people, to our citizens -- to serve their needs, to ensure their safety, to preserve their rights, and to defend their values.”
Other statements:
Source: House Representative Don Beyer (D-VA, 8th)
“Donald Trump cannot camouflage his Muslim Ban by adding new countries to it. Its discriminatory roots are still plainly visible. This policy is an attempt to use racial and anti-religious animus to divide people for political ends.
As with previous bans, the Administration provides no evidence that they enhance public safety. Meanwhile, the ban continues to stigmatize millions of Muslim Americans, as well as our key allies in the war on terror.
This policy has been wrong from the start, it is wrong still, and I will continue to oppose it.”
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Assistant Secretary Insular, Aviation, I-73, Veterans, Travel Ban, RECLAIM Act, Trumpcare
President Trump Nominates Doug Domenech as Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas
Aumua Amata (R - American Samoa, At Large)
June 27, 2017
"I am excited to announce that the President and I have selected Doug Domenech to lead the Administration’s initiatives in the insular areas," said Secretary Zinke. "Domenech’s passion for the people and priorities in the islands, and his previous service in state and federal government combine to make him the ideal candidate for this position."
Read more...
Reps. Slaughter, Higgins, Collins, and Reed Join Flight 3407 Families in Calling on Congress to Protect Aviation Safety Improvements
Tom Reed (R-NY, 23rd)
June 27, 2017
Representatives Louise M. Slaughter (NY-25), Brian Higgins (NY-26), Chris Collins (NY-27), and Tom Reed (NY-23) stood with Flight 3407 families and Capt. Tim Canoll, president of the Airline Pilots Association, and Jeff Skiles, first officer of the Miracle on the Hudson, in a bipartisan call for Congress to preserve hard-fought aviation safety improvements as the House prepares to consider Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization legislation. They voiced strong and united opposition to any effort to roll back flight safety rules.
Read more...
Rice, Graham Make Case for I-73 to DOT Secretary Chao
Tom Rice (R-SC, 7th)
June 27, 2017
“Now that we have the construction permit in hand I’m looking at every possible option for funding, from grants to appropriations to President Trump’s infrastructure package,” said Congressman Rice. “I’m leaving no stone unturned in advancing this project, so it was critical that the case for I-73 was made directly to Secretary Chao. I thank her for meeting with us and for her commitment to helping advance this project going forward.”
Read more...
Cotton, King, Roe, and Correa Introduce Veterans Heritage Firearms Act
Phil Roe (R-TN, 1st)
June 26, 2017
"Our World War II and Korean War Veterans risked their lives in foreign lands in defense of our freedoms. These firearms represent the sacrifices they made in the name of duty and are often treasured keepsakes," said Cotton. “We should do everything we can to make sure they stay that way. This bill would protect veterans and help preserve these historical artifacts."
Read more...
If the courts do not uphold the law, the Congress must act
Mike (AL) Rogers (R-AL, 3rd)
June 26, 2017
“However, there's a possibility our judicial system will fail to fully defend American sovereignty. In that case, I am working on legislation that would give the president broad authority to bar any person or group of people that could be members of or infiltrated by a terrorist organization. If the courts do not uphold the law, the Congress must act to protect American citizens.”
Read more...
RECLAIM Act Gains Ground in U.S. House
Harold Rogers (R-KY, 5th)
June 27, 2017
"I sponsored the RECLAIM Act to help revitalize coal communities all across the nation that have been devastated by the downturn of the coal industry," said Congressman Rogers. "Nearly 12,000 coal miners have been laid off in Eastern Kentucky over the last eight years. Families that relied on good paying jobs in the mines are now going bankrupt. Our small counties that once received sizable revenues from coal severence tax dollars are struggling to provide basic services. These are hardworking people who are looking for opportunities, and the RECLAIM Act stands to create thousands of good paying jobs in the communities that need it most."
Read more...
ROSEN STATEMENT ON REPUBLICANS’ DELAY OF SENATE TRUMPCARE VOTE
Jacky Rosen (D-NV, 3rd)
June 27, 2017
“The Senate GOP’s decision to postpone the vote on their dangerous version of Trumpcare does not mean that the fight to protect access to coverage for millions of Americans is over. Twenty-two million Americans stand to lose coverage if Republicans move ahead with their ruthless plan. The sad truth is that the GOP still refuses to work together with Democrats across the aisle to improve our healthcare system, instead threatening vulnerable Americans by stripping away their protections just so they can give a massive tax cut to the wealthy. The Senate Health Care Bill is a major step in the wrong direction, and I intend to fight for the tens of thousands Nevada patients and families who will suffer under this plan. ”
Read more...
Aumua Amata (R - American Samoa, At Large)
June 27, 2017
"I am excited to announce that the President and I have selected Doug Domenech to lead the Administration’s initiatives in the insular areas," said Secretary Zinke. "Domenech’s passion for the people and priorities in the islands, and his previous service in state and federal government combine to make him the ideal candidate for this position."
Read more...
Reps. Slaughter, Higgins, Collins, and Reed Join Flight 3407 Families in Calling on Congress to Protect Aviation Safety Improvements
Tom Reed (R-NY, 23rd)
June 27, 2017
Representatives Louise M. Slaughter (NY-25), Brian Higgins (NY-26), Chris Collins (NY-27), and Tom Reed (NY-23) stood with Flight 3407 families and Capt. Tim Canoll, president of the Airline Pilots Association, and Jeff Skiles, first officer of the Miracle on the Hudson, in a bipartisan call for Congress to preserve hard-fought aviation safety improvements as the House prepares to consider Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization legislation. They voiced strong and united opposition to any effort to roll back flight safety rules.
Read more...
Rice, Graham Make Case for I-73 to DOT Secretary Chao
Tom Rice (R-SC, 7th)
June 27, 2017
“Now that we have the construction permit in hand I’m looking at every possible option for funding, from grants to appropriations to President Trump’s infrastructure package,” said Congressman Rice. “I’m leaving no stone unturned in advancing this project, so it was critical that the case for I-73 was made directly to Secretary Chao. I thank her for meeting with us and for her commitment to helping advance this project going forward.”
Read more...
Cotton, King, Roe, and Correa Introduce Veterans Heritage Firearms Act
Phil Roe (R-TN, 1st)
June 26, 2017
"Our World War II and Korean War Veterans risked their lives in foreign lands in defense of our freedoms. These firearms represent the sacrifices they made in the name of duty and are often treasured keepsakes," said Cotton. “We should do everything we can to make sure they stay that way. This bill would protect veterans and help preserve these historical artifacts."
Read more...
If the courts do not uphold the law, the Congress must act
Mike (AL) Rogers (R-AL, 3rd)
June 26, 2017
“However, there's a possibility our judicial system will fail to fully defend American sovereignty. In that case, I am working on legislation that would give the president broad authority to bar any person or group of people that could be members of or infiltrated by a terrorist organization. If the courts do not uphold the law, the Congress must act to protect American citizens.”
Read more...
RECLAIM Act Gains Ground in U.S. House
Harold Rogers (R-KY, 5th)
June 27, 2017
"I sponsored the RECLAIM Act to help revitalize coal communities all across the nation that have been devastated by the downturn of the coal industry," said Congressman Rogers. "Nearly 12,000 coal miners have been laid off in Eastern Kentucky over the last eight years. Families that relied on good paying jobs in the mines are now going bankrupt. Our small counties that once received sizable revenues from coal severence tax dollars are struggling to provide basic services. These are hardworking people who are looking for opportunities, and the RECLAIM Act stands to create thousands of good paying jobs in the communities that need it most."
Read more...
ROSEN STATEMENT ON REPUBLICANS’ DELAY OF SENATE TRUMPCARE VOTE
Jacky Rosen (D-NV, 3rd)
June 27, 2017
“The Senate GOP’s decision to postpone the vote on their dangerous version of Trumpcare does not mean that the fight to protect access to coverage for millions of Americans is over. Twenty-two million Americans stand to lose coverage if Republicans move ahead with their ruthless plan. The sad truth is that the GOP still refuses to work together with Democrats across the aisle to improve our healthcare system, instead threatening vulnerable Americans by stripping away their protections just so they can give a massive tax cut to the wealthy. The Senate Health Care Bill is a major step in the wrong direction, and I intend to fight for the tens of thousands Nevada patients and families who will suffer under this plan. ”
Read more...
Monday, June 26, 2017
Supreme Court Allows Trump Travel Ban (And more...)
Rep. Pascrell Statement on CBO Score for Senate Health Care Bill
Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 9th)
June 26, 2017
"Strike three. After issuing two devastating analyses of two different House bills, today’s nonpartisan CBO analysis found that the Senate bill repealing and ‘replacing’ the Affordable Care Act would cause 22 million Americans to lose their insurance by 2026. The CBO analysis proves that this bill isn’t about making the health care system work better for every day Americans; it’s about giving a massive tax break to the wealthiest Americans at the expense of devastating Medicaid, harming our hospitals and health care providers, and removing important consumer protections for seniors and individuals with pre-existing conditions. I call on Republicans to abandon this harmful bill and instead try to find bipartisan compromise to improve health care for Americans across the board."
Read more...
Statement of National Alliance for Hispanic Health on CBO Score of Better Care Reconciliation Act
Pelosi Statement on Anniversary of Supreme Court Marriage Equality Ruling
Nancy Pelosi (D-CA, 12th)
June 26, 2017
“Two years ago, the Supreme Court affirmed that equal justice under the law means marriage equality for LGBT Americans. With this historic decision for love, our nation moved closer to fulfilling the full promise of our ideals. No person should be denied their rights because of who they are or whom they love.
Read more...
CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER ON SUPREME COURT DECISION TO REINSTATE KEY PARTS OF PRESIDENT TRUMP’S TRAVEL BAN
Robert Pittenger (R-NC, 9th)
June 26, 2017
“The Supreme Court today performed a solemn duty too often ignored by lower courts. They issued a ruling based on the law, not on political activism. Ordinary Americans already knew what the Supreme Court today reminded the lower courts: The federal government and the President have responsibility for national security, and a thorough vetting of refugees is part of that responsibility.”
Read more...
AJC Welcomes Supreme Court Decision to Consider Immigration Executive Order
NAFSA Statement on SCOTUS Travel Ban Decision
ANTHEM’S RATE INCREASES REINFORCE WHAT HAS BEEN KNOWN FOR YEARS: OBAMACARE IS FAILING AND MAINERS WILL SUFFER IF NOTHING IS DONE
Bruce Poliquin (R-MN, 2nd)
June 26, 2017
“Since ObamaCare was first implemented, Mainers’ premiums and deductibles have skyrocketed. Just last year, the Bangor Daily News reported that ‘average increases for individual plans range from about 14 percent to 24 percent for 2017.’ Insurers—like Anthem—have considered pulling out of the individual market or have already done so, and families have had fewer and fewer health care options,” said Congressman Poliquin. “ObamaCare has been failing for years, as many have warned, impacting tens of thousands of Maine families.
Read more...
Actions This Week in LA and Sacramento Demanding Assembly Speaker Rendon Stop Delay and Pass SB 562
National Nurses United
June 26, 2017
The campaign for the Healthy California Act, a coalition comprised of 350 organizations representing over six million Californians, is holding actions this week in Los Angeles and Sacramento to demand that Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon immediately let the Assembly vote on SB 562, a bill that would guarantee healthcare to all Californians.
Read more...
NRA Statement on Peruta v. California
NRA-ILA
June 26, 2017
“We are disappointed in the Court’s rejection of the appeal in Peruta v. California, which now leaves millions of law-abiding Californians with no ability to bear arms outside the home. As Justices Thomas and Gorsuch correctly stated, too many courts have been treating the Second Amendment as a second-class right. That should not be allowed to stand. As the Supreme Court stated in its landmark decision in Heller v. District of Columbia, the Second Amendment guarantees an individual right to keep and bear arms for self-defense. The framers of our Constitution did not intend to limit that right to the home. We look forward to a future Court affirming that the right to keep and bear arms is as much a part of our Constitution as the other enumerated rights that it protects. We will not stop fighting until a future Court affirms this fundamental right."
Read more...
Oxfam to support challenge to Travel Ban at Supreme Court
OxFam America
June 26, 2017
“Oxfam remains steadfast in our commitment to welcome and protect refugees and immigrants to the United States. To that end, Oxfam plans to submit an amicus brief to the Supreme Court in support of plaintiffs challenging this harmful and discriminatory Executive Order.
Read more...
Consumer Watchdog Calls on Congress to Ensure Safety Standards for Robot Cars; Warns Pre-emption of State Rules Before Feds Act Would Leave Dangerous Regulatory Void
Consumer Watchdog
June 26, 2017
"Pre-empting the states' ability to fill the void left by federal inaction leaves us at the mercy of manufacturers as they use our public highways as their private laboratories however they wish with no safety protections at all."
Read more...
Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 9th)
June 26, 2017
"Strike three. After issuing two devastating analyses of two different House bills, today’s nonpartisan CBO analysis found that the Senate bill repealing and ‘replacing’ the Affordable Care Act would cause 22 million Americans to lose their insurance by 2026. The CBO analysis proves that this bill isn’t about making the health care system work better for every day Americans; it’s about giving a massive tax break to the wealthiest Americans at the expense of devastating Medicaid, harming our hospitals and health care providers, and removing important consumer protections for seniors and individuals with pre-existing conditions. I call on Republicans to abandon this harmful bill and instead try to find bipartisan compromise to improve health care for Americans across the board."
Read more...
Statement of National Alliance for Hispanic Health on CBO Score of Better Care Reconciliation Act
Pelosi Statement on Anniversary of Supreme Court Marriage Equality Ruling
Nancy Pelosi (D-CA, 12th)
June 26, 2017
“Two years ago, the Supreme Court affirmed that equal justice under the law means marriage equality for LGBT Americans. With this historic decision for love, our nation moved closer to fulfilling the full promise of our ideals. No person should be denied their rights because of who they are or whom they love.
Read more...
CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER ON SUPREME COURT DECISION TO REINSTATE KEY PARTS OF PRESIDENT TRUMP’S TRAVEL BAN
Robert Pittenger (R-NC, 9th)
June 26, 2017
“The Supreme Court today performed a solemn duty too often ignored by lower courts. They issued a ruling based on the law, not on political activism. Ordinary Americans already knew what the Supreme Court today reminded the lower courts: The federal government and the President have responsibility for national security, and a thorough vetting of refugees is part of that responsibility.”
Read more...
AJC Welcomes Supreme Court Decision to Consider Immigration Executive Order
NAFSA Statement on SCOTUS Travel Ban Decision
ANTHEM’S RATE INCREASES REINFORCE WHAT HAS BEEN KNOWN FOR YEARS: OBAMACARE IS FAILING AND MAINERS WILL SUFFER IF NOTHING IS DONE
Bruce Poliquin (R-MN, 2nd)
June 26, 2017
“Since ObamaCare was first implemented, Mainers’ premiums and deductibles have skyrocketed. Just last year, the Bangor Daily News reported that ‘average increases for individual plans range from about 14 percent to 24 percent for 2017.’ Insurers—like Anthem—have considered pulling out of the individual market or have already done so, and families have had fewer and fewer health care options,” said Congressman Poliquin. “ObamaCare has been failing for years, as many have warned, impacting tens of thousands of Maine families.
Read more...
Actions This Week in LA and Sacramento Demanding Assembly Speaker Rendon Stop Delay and Pass SB 562
National Nurses United
June 26, 2017
The campaign for the Healthy California Act, a coalition comprised of 350 organizations representing over six million Californians, is holding actions this week in Los Angeles and Sacramento to demand that Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon immediately let the Assembly vote on SB 562, a bill that would guarantee healthcare to all Californians.
Read more...
NRA Statement on Peruta v. California
NRA-ILA
June 26, 2017
“We are disappointed in the Court’s rejection of the appeal in Peruta v. California, which now leaves millions of law-abiding Californians with no ability to bear arms outside the home. As Justices Thomas and Gorsuch correctly stated, too many courts have been treating the Second Amendment as a second-class right. That should not be allowed to stand. As the Supreme Court stated in its landmark decision in Heller v. District of Columbia, the Second Amendment guarantees an individual right to keep and bear arms for self-defense. The framers of our Constitution did not intend to limit that right to the home. We look forward to a future Court affirming that the right to keep and bear arms is as much a part of our Constitution as the other enumerated rights that it protects. We will not stop fighting until a future Court affirms this fundamental right."
Read more...
Oxfam to support challenge to Travel Ban at Supreme Court
OxFam America
June 26, 2017
“Oxfam remains steadfast in our commitment to welcome and protect refugees and immigrants to the United States. To that end, Oxfam plans to submit an amicus brief to the Supreme Court in support of plaintiffs challenging this harmful and discriminatory Executive Order.
Read more...
Consumer Watchdog Calls on Congress to Ensure Safety Standards for Robot Cars; Warns Pre-emption of State Rules Before Feds Act Would Leave Dangerous Regulatory Void
Consumer Watchdog
June 26, 2017
"Pre-empting the states' ability to fill the void left by federal inaction leaves us at the mercy of manufacturers as they use our public highways as their private laboratories however they wish with no safety protections at all."
Read more...
Monday, May 29, 2017
Military, Travel Ban, Memorial Day, WOTUS, Land Exchange, Cyber Defense
FRANKEL PRAISES BIPARTISAN EFFORT TO PROTECT SERVICE MEMBERS FROM EXPLICIT PHOTO SHARING ONLINE
Lois Frankel (D-FL, 22nd)
May 24, 2017
Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21), Chair of the Democratic Women’s Working Group (DWWG), issued the following statement in support of the bipartisan PRIVATE Act, which makes it illegal for military members to share explicit photos without consent. The PRIVATE Act passed the House.
Read more...
Congressman Garamendi Statement on Appeals Court Travel Ban Ruling
John Garamendi (D-CA, 3rd)
May 25, 2017
“The 4th Circuit Court of Appeals made the right decision in upholding a lower court ruling that blocked the implementation of President Trump’s travel ban from six predominately Muslim countries. America is a stronger nation when it welcomes immigrants and embraces religious freedom. President Trump repeatedly called for a Muslim ban during the campaign, and people close to the President have admitted that this travel ban was a backdoor attempt to create a legal framework to implement the Muslim ban by other means. The ban is discriminatory and must be rejected. Let’s remember that all of these immigrants are vetted before entering the United States. Muslim Americans form an integral part of the American fabric, and we cannot sacrifice our values for a misguided policy that will not make us safer."
Read more...
TODAY WE REMEMBER THOSE WHO SACRIFICED EVERYTHING FOR THIS NATION
Thomas Garrett (R-VA, 5th)
May 29, 2017
"There are some that think Memorial Day is a holiday. The definition of holiday is a day of festivity. For those who have lost spouses, family members and friends who died while serving in our Armed Forces, a festivity is the furthest thing from the truth. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom and security of this great nation. It is our duty to preserve the memory of America and honor those who served it with such distinction. No nation, in human history, has done so much to liberate and defend so many across the planet.
Read more...
Gohmert Introduces Armed Services Always Paid (ASAP) Act
Louie Gohmert (R-TX, 1st)
April 27, 2017
“Those who stand between us and loss of freedom –or even annihilation –deserve our utmost respect and honor. The heroic men and women of the U.S. Military risk life and limb daily to certify the safety and security of all Americans at home and abroad. If Congress cannot pass an appropriation, it’s not right for these valiant warriors and their families to suffer through a late paycheck.”
Read more...
Goodlatte, Conaway Call on AG to Evaluate DOJ Overreach in Prosecuting WOTUS Violations
Bob Goodlatte (R-VA, 6th)
May 26, 2017
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and House Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway (R-Texas) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions calling for a review of the legal theory underlying the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) decision to prosecute a California court case alleging violations under the Clean Water Act (CWA) – directly related to both the statutory exemptions for farming and the Obama Administration’s waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule.
Read more...
Rep. Gosar Introduces Land Exchange Bill to Foster Economic Development and Job Creation in Rural Arizona
Paul A. Gosar (R-AZ, 4th)
May 24, 2017
U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after introducing H.R. 2630, which would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to convey Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land to La Paz County, Arizona, in order to create economic development opportunities and facilitate renewable electricity generation for the Western United States:
Read more...
Rep. Tom Graves Releases Updated Active Cyber Defense Bill
Tom Graves (R-GA, 14th)
May 25, 2017
“These changes reflect careful analysis and many thoughtful suggestions from a broad spectrum of industries and viewpoints,” said Rep. Graves. “I thank everyone who helped sharpen this idea and improve the legislation. I look forward to continuing the conversation and formally introducing ACDC in the next few weeks.”
Read more...
Lois Frankel (D-FL, 22nd)
May 24, 2017
Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21), Chair of the Democratic Women’s Working Group (DWWG), issued the following statement in support of the bipartisan PRIVATE Act, which makes it illegal for military members to share explicit photos without consent. The PRIVATE Act passed the House.
Read more...
Congressman Garamendi Statement on Appeals Court Travel Ban Ruling
John Garamendi (D-CA, 3rd)
May 25, 2017
“The 4th Circuit Court of Appeals made the right decision in upholding a lower court ruling that blocked the implementation of President Trump’s travel ban from six predominately Muslim countries. America is a stronger nation when it welcomes immigrants and embraces religious freedom. President Trump repeatedly called for a Muslim ban during the campaign, and people close to the President have admitted that this travel ban was a backdoor attempt to create a legal framework to implement the Muslim ban by other means. The ban is discriminatory and must be rejected. Let’s remember that all of these immigrants are vetted before entering the United States. Muslim Americans form an integral part of the American fabric, and we cannot sacrifice our values for a misguided policy that will not make us safer."
Read more...
TODAY WE REMEMBER THOSE WHO SACRIFICED EVERYTHING FOR THIS NATION
Thomas Garrett (R-VA, 5th)
May 29, 2017
"There are some that think Memorial Day is a holiday. The definition of holiday is a day of festivity. For those who have lost spouses, family members and friends who died while serving in our Armed Forces, a festivity is the furthest thing from the truth. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom and security of this great nation. It is our duty to preserve the memory of America and honor those who served it with such distinction. No nation, in human history, has done so much to liberate and defend so many across the planet.
Read more...
Gohmert Introduces Armed Services Always Paid (ASAP) Act
Louie Gohmert (R-TX, 1st)
April 27, 2017
“Those who stand between us and loss of freedom –or even annihilation –deserve our utmost respect and honor. The heroic men and women of the U.S. Military risk life and limb daily to certify the safety and security of all Americans at home and abroad. If Congress cannot pass an appropriation, it’s not right for these valiant warriors and their families to suffer through a late paycheck.”
Read more...
Goodlatte, Conaway Call on AG to Evaluate DOJ Overreach in Prosecuting WOTUS Violations
Bob Goodlatte (R-VA, 6th)
May 26, 2017
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and House Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway (R-Texas) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions calling for a review of the legal theory underlying the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) decision to prosecute a California court case alleging violations under the Clean Water Act (CWA) – directly related to both the statutory exemptions for farming and the Obama Administration’s waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule.
Read more...
Rep. Gosar Introduces Land Exchange Bill to Foster Economic Development and Job Creation in Rural Arizona
Paul A. Gosar (R-AZ, 4th)
May 24, 2017
U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after introducing H.R. 2630, which would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to convey Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land to La Paz County, Arizona, in order to create economic development opportunities and facilitate renewable electricity generation for the Western United States:
Read more...
Rep. Tom Graves Releases Updated Active Cyber Defense Bill
Tom Graves (R-GA, 14th)
May 25, 2017
“These changes reflect careful analysis and many thoughtful suggestions from a broad spectrum of industries and viewpoints,” said Rep. Graves. “I thank everyone who helped sharpen this idea and improve the legislation. I look forward to continuing the conversation and formally introducing ACDC in the next few weeks.”
Read more...
Thursday, March 16, 2017
Budget, Travel Ban, Climate Change, Science and Technology, Employee Wellness Programs, Energy Prices, VISAs
Congressman Jeff Duncan Reacts to Presidential Budget Blueprint
Jeff Duncan (R-SC, 3rd)
March 16, 2017
"As Mick said yesterday, ‘This is not a soft power budget, this is a hard power budget.’ I couldn’t agree more. It is long past time to shore up the nation’s defenses with the spending needed to modernize our military and improve readiness. Defending our country must always be the nation’s top priority, and this budget takes important steps in that direction."
Read more...
ENGEL STATEMENT ON LATEST DISTRICT COURT RULING AGAINST PRESIDENT TRUMP'S TRAVEL BAN
Eliot Engel (D-NY, 16th)
March 16, 2017
Congressman Eliot L. Engel issued the following statement on the U.S. District Court ruling which froze President Trump’s latest travel ban:
Read more...
Esty Statement on President Trump’s FY 18 Budget Outline
Elizabeth Esty (D-CT, 5th)
March 16, 2017
Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT-5) today issued the following statement regarding the budget outline released by President Trump:
Read more...
Rep. Faso Cosponsors Resolution to Combat Climate Change
John Faso, (R-NY, 19th)
March 15, 2017
Congressman John Faso (R-Kinderhook) today joined 16 Republican members of the House to introduce a resolution that calls for using American innovation to preserve and protect our environment.
Read more...
FITZPATRICK STATEMENT ON WHITE HOUSE BUDGET PROPOSAL
Brian Fitzpatrick, (R PA, 8th)
March 16, 2017
“President Trump is a negotiator and, as such, this broad-stroke budget proposal should be treated as a starting point, not a final product. As a CPA, I appreciate the administration’s focus on fighting back against Washington’s overspending, and as a former counter-terror FBI agent, I appreciate the commitment to rebuild our military and support a robust foreign policy. However, I am very concerned about any proposed cuts to places like the EPA and State Department. We are requesting more information on the White House’s spending priorities – and I will fight for my own – during the upcoming budget debate.”
Read more...
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Foster Introduces American Innovation Act
Bill Foster (D-IL, 11th)
March 16, 2017
Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) introduced the American Innovation Act, a measure that would support the steady growth of federal investment in scientific and technological research.
Read more...
Setting the Record Straight: Q&A on Voluntary Employee Wellness Programs
Virginia Foxx (R-NC, 5th)
March 16, 2017
Voluntary employee wellness plans have long helped lower health care costs for working families and promote the health and wellbeing of employees. Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., chairwoman of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, introduced the Preserving Employee Wellness Programs Act (H.R. 1313) to provide regulatory clarity so employers can have the certainty they need to continue offering their workers the option of participating in employee wellness programs. Unfortunately, critics of the bill are spreading false information to deny workers that option. Below are some basic facts to help set the record straight.
Read more...
SCHUMER VOWS TO PROTECT CRITICAL FED INVESTMENT
Charles E. Schumer- (D - NY)
March 16, 2017
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today sounded the alarm and expressed serious concerns over reports that the administration will eliminate all funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG)- the proposed elimination Schumer says would put countless community development and infrastructure projects at risk in Syracuse and across Central New York. Schumer promised to fight to protect the CDBG program, which is currently scheduled to receive $3 billion from HUD.
Read more...
Senator Scott, Congressman Rice Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Lower Energy Prices
Senator Tim Scott - (R - SC)
March 16, 2017
U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced legislation that could help lower energy prices for millions of Americans. His legislation corrects an inefficiency in the United States tax code to allow more effective use of the nuclear production tax credit (PTC) to lower energy prices for consumers and mitigate the risk public-private partnerships incur when involved in the construction of first-in-a-generation nuclear power facilities.
Read more...
Senator Stabenow Statement on President Trump’s Budget Request that Completely Eliminates Great Lakes Funding
Senator Debbie Stabenow - (D - MI)
March 16, 2017
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s fiscal year 2018 budget request, which completely eliminates funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative:
Read more...
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Statement on President Trump’s Budget Blueprint
Patrick J.Toomey - (R - PA)
March 16, 2017
"President Trump's budget blueprint proposes a significant increase in spending to strengthen national security, rebuild our neglected military, and honor our commitment to veterans with additional resources for the VA. To pay for these changes, it proposes reductions to non-defense programs. After years of overspending, I am encouraged that the President has proposed actual spending cuts and has committed to maintaining the overall cap on discretionary spending. I look forward to carefully examining each of the proposed reductions in this budget proposal."
Read more...
Tillis, Bipartisan Group of Senators Introduce Legislation Authorizing Additional Visas for Afghan Interpreters, Support Staff
Senator Thom Tillis - (R - NC)
March 16, 2017
Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), John McCain (R-AZ), and Jack Reed (D-RI) introduced bipartisan legislation to provide 2,500 more visas for the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program, which allows Afghans, including interpreters, who supported the U.S. mission in Afghanistan and face threats as a result of their service, to apply for refuge in the United States. The senators introduced their bill after the U.S. Embassy in Kabul officially stopped scheduling interviews for applicants seeking a visa through the Afghan SIV program. Last year, Senators Tillis, Shaheen, McCain, and Reed led efforts in the Senate to extend this vital national security program.
Read more...
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Jeff Duncan (R-SC, 3rd)
March 16, 2017
"As Mick said yesterday, ‘This is not a soft power budget, this is a hard power budget.’ I couldn’t agree more. It is long past time to shore up the nation’s defenses with the spending needed to modernize our military and improve readiness. Defending our country must always be the nation’s top priority, and this budget takes important steps in that direction."
Read more...
ENGEL STATEMENT ON LATEST DISTRICT COURT RULING AGAINST PRESIDENT TRUMP'S TRAVEL BAN
Eliot Engel (D-NY, 16th)
March 16, 2017
Congressman Eliot L. Engel issued the following statement on the U.S. District Court ruling which froze President Trump’s latest travel ban:
Read more...
Esty Statement on President Trump’s FY 18 Budget Outline
Elizabeth Esty (D-CT, 5th)
March 16, 2017
Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty (CT-5) today issued the following statement regarding the budget outline released by President Trump:
Read more...
Rep. Faso Cosponsors Resolution to Combat Climate Change
John Faso, (R-NY, 19th)
March 15, 2017
Congressman John Faso (R-Kinderhook) today joined 16 Republican members of the House to introduce a resolution that calls for using American innovation to preserve and protect our environment.
Read more...
FITZPATRICK STATEMENT ON WHITE HOUSE BUDGET PROPOSAL
Brian Fitzpatrick, (R PA, 8th)
March 16, 2017
“President Trump is a negotiator and, as such, this broad-stroke budget proposal should be treated as a starting point, not a final product. As a CPA, I appreciate the administration’s focus on fighting back against Washington’s overspending, and as a former counter-terror FBI agent, I appreciate the commitment to rebuild our military and support a robust foreign policy. However, I am very concerned about any proposed cuts to places like the EPA and State Department. We are requesting more information on the White House’s spending priorities – and I will fight for my own – during the upcoming budget debate.”
Read more...
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Foster Introduces American Innovation Act
Bill Foster (D-IL, 11th)
March 16, 2017
Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) introduced the American Innovation Act, a measure that would support the steady growth of federal investment in scientific and technological research.
Read more...
Setting the Record Straight: Q&A on Voluntary Employee Wellness Programs
Virginia Foxx (R-NC, 5th)
March 16, 2017
Voluntary employee wellness plans have long helped lower health care costs for working families and promote the health and wellbeing of employees. Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., chairwoman of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, introduced the Preserving Employee Wellness Programs Act (H.R. 1313) to provide regulatory clarity so employers can have the certainty they need to continue offering their workers the option of participating in employee wellness programs. Unfortunately, critics of the bill are spreading false information to deny workers that option. Below are some basic facts to help set the record straight.
Read more...
SCHUMER VOWS TO PROTECT CRITICAL FED INVESTMENT
Charles E. Schumer- (D - NY)
March 16, 2017
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today sounded the alarm and expressed serious concerns over reports that the administration will eliminate all funding to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG)- the proposed elimination Schumer says would put countless community development and infrastructure projects at risk in Syracuse and across Central New York. Schumer promised to fight to protect the CDBG program, which is currently scheduled to receive $3 billion from HUD.
Read more...
Senator Scott, Congressman Rice Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Lower Energy Prices
Senator Tim Scott - (R - SC)
March 16, 2017
U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced legislation that could help lower energy prices for millions of Americans. His legislation corrects an inefficiency in the United States tax code to allow more effective use of the nuclear production tax credit (PTC) to lower energy prices for consumers and mitigate the risk public-private partnerships incur when involved in the construction of first-in-a-generation nuclear power facilities.
Read more...
Senator Stabenow Statement on President Trump’s Budget Request that Completely Eliminates Great Lakes Funding
Senator Debbie Stabenow - (D - MI)
March 16, 2017
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s fiscal year 2018 budget request, which completely eliminates funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative:
Read more...
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Statement on President Trump’s Budget Blueprint
Patrick J.Toomey - (R - PA)
March 16, 2017
"President Trump's budget blueprint proposes a significant increase in spending to strengthen national security, rebuild our neglected military, and honor our commitment to veterans with additional resources for the VA. To pay for these changes, it proposes reductions to non-defense programs. After years of overspending, I am encouraged that the President has proposed actual spending cuts and has committed to maintaining the overall cap on discretionary spending. I look forward to carefully examining each of the proposed reductions in this budget proposal."
Read more...
Tillis, Bipartisan Group of Senators Introduce Legislation Authorizing Additional Visas for Afghan Interpreters, Support Staff
Senator Thom Tillis - (R - NC)
March 16, 2017
Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), John McCain (R-AZ), and Jack Reed (D-RI) introduced bipartisan legislation to provide 2,500 more visas for the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program, which allows Afghans, including interpreters, who supported the U.S. mission in Afghanistan and face threats as a result of their service, to apply for refuge in the United States. The senators introduced their bill after the U.S. Embassy in Kabul officially stopped scheduling interviews for applicants seeking a visa through the Afghan SIV program. Last year, Senators Tillis, Shaheen, McCain, and Reed led efforts in the Senate to extend this vital national security program.
Read more...
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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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...
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
The Ponder News: Midwives, gun rights, Health Care, NASA, Veterans, Travel Ban, South Korea, Sexual Abuse, Planned Parenthood, Avian Flu
Vote is today on midwife regulation bill in Alabama
TimesDaily
March 7, 2017
Jessica Thompson is just weeks from delivering her fourth child, a son, and she wants a midwife-assisted birth at her Lauderdale County home.
But that would be against the law.
Alabama law does not allow certified professional midwives to practice in the state. The law has stipulations for nurse midwives to practice under an Alabama doctor, but there are few practicing in the state, and even those can't assist a woman desiring to delivery outside a hospital.
Read more...
Trump signs Abraham gun rights bill into law
Ralph Abraham (R-LA, 5th)
March 2, 2017
The law ends a regulation implemented in the midnight hours of the Obama administration that required the Social Security Administration to submit to the FBI the names of all beneficiaries who are assigned a representative payee to manage their financial affairs due to a mental disability. Their names would then be put in the National Instant Criminal Background Check system, which would effectively eliminate their Second Amendment right to buy and possess firearms without due process.
Read more...
Congresswoman Adams Statement on the American Healthcare Act
March 7, 2017
Alma Adams (D-NC, 12th)
Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12) released the following statement after Congressional Republicans announced their healthcare plan intended to replace the Affordable Care Act.
Read more...
Allen on American Health Care Act
Rick Allen (R-GA, 12th)
March 7, 2017
House Republicans on the Ways and Means Committee and Energy and Commerce Committee recently introduced the American Health Care Act. This legislation is part of the House Republican agenda to bring Obamacare relief to Americans. Congressman Rick Allen (R-Ga.-12) released the following statement:
Read more...
House Approves NASA Transition Authorization Act
Brian Babin (R-TX, 36th)
March 7, 2017
The U.S. House of Representatives today approved the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 (S.442), which cleared the Senate last month. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation reaffirms Congress’ commitment to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and directs NASA to pursue a balanced portfolio of activities. It now goes to the President’s desk to be signed into law.
Read more...
BANKS STATEMENT ON OBAMACARE REPLACEMENT PLAN
Jim Banks (R-IN, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) today released the following statement regarding the Republican plan to replace Obamacare:
Read more...
BANKS INTRODUCES BILL TO ALLOW VETERANS TO BE BURIED CLOSER TO HOME
Jim Banks (R-IN, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) today introduced a bill that would authorize the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to pay for the transportation of a deceased veteran’s remains to a state-owned or tribal-owned veterans cemetery. The VA is currently only authorized to transport such remains to a national veterans cemetery.
Read more...
REP. BARLETTA’S STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDER
Lou Barletta (R-PA, 11th)
March 6, 2017
Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11) today applauded President Trump’s latest executive order, which pauses the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days. It also suspends the issuance of new visas for 90 days for individuals from six countries that either are designated as state sponsors of terrorism, or have become terrorist hotbeds. The six countries are Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.
Read more...
Rep. Bass Rips New Health Proposal
Karen Bass (D-CA, 37th)
March 7, 2017
On Tuesday, Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.) issued the following statement in response to the House Republican plan to repeal the Affordable Care Act.
Read more...
Beatty Statement on Affordable Care Act Repeal and Replace Bill
Joyce Beatty (D-OH, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
On March 6th, House Republicans released legislation to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. In response, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement:
Read more...
Rep. Ami Bera Statement on Passage of NASA Transition Authorization Act
Amy Berra (D-CA, 7th)
Mar 7, 2017
Rep. Ami Bera, ranking member of the House Subcommittee on Space, released the following statement after the House voted to pass the NASA Transition Authorization Act, which establishes a funding range for the nation’s space program.
Read more...
Cotton Statement on China’s Criticism of Missile-Defense System in South Korea
Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR)
Mar 7, 2017
U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement in response to China's criticism of the THAAD missile-defense system recently deployed in South Korea:
Read more...
Congress Sends Bipartisan Cruz-Nelson NASA Transition Authorization Act to the President’s Desk
Senator Ted Cruz- (R - TX)
Mar 7, 2017
The U.S. House of Representatives today passed S. 442, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Transition Authorization Act of 2017, a bill originally introduced in the U.S. Senate by U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), along with Sens. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas). In the House, the chairmen with committees of jurisdiction for the bill are U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas), chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, and Rep. Brian Babin (R-Texas), chairman of the House Space Subcommittee. The legislation provides stability for NASA to sustain and build upon existing national space investments designed to advance space exploration and science with an overall authorization level of $19.508 billion for fiscal year 2017. With the House’s passage of the bill today, the legislation now heads to the White House to await President Donald Trump’s signature.
Read more...
Donnelly Joins Bipartisan Group of Senators to Introduce Bill Requiring U.S. Amateur Athletic Organizations, Members to Report Sexual Abuse
Senator Joe Donnely - (D - IN)
March 6, 2017
U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly joined a bipartisan group of Senators in introducing legislation that would require amateur athletics governing bodies to immediately report sex-abuse allegations to local or federal law enforcement, or a child-welfare agency designated by the Justice Department. The bill stems from recent allegations of sexual abuse made against personnel involved with USA Gymnastics, USA Swimming and USA Taekwondo. The bill was led by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and also introduced by Susan Collins (R-ME), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Jeff Flake (R-AZ) Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Todd Young (R-IN.)
Read more...
Duckworth Statement on the President’s Newest Discriminatory Executive Order
Senator Tammy Ducksworth (D - IL)
March 6, 2017
U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement regarding the executive order signed by the President today restricting travel from six Muslim-majority countries:
Read more...
Planned Parenthood CEOs Raking in the Cash at Taxpayers' Expense
American Life League
March 8, 2017
American Life League’s Stop Planned Parenthood International (STOPP) completed and released its third report on the compensation of the chief executive officer of each of Planned Parenthood’s 56 affiliates across the country. The report showed a significant increase in CEO compensation since the last report released in 2015.
Read more...
APA Concerned About Proposed ACA Replacement Bill
American Psychiatric Association
March 7, 2017
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is deeply concerned that the proposed ACA replacement released last night will negatively impact care for people with mental illness and substance use disorders. The APA urges continued support and expanded access to quality, evidence-based mental health and substance use services.
Read more...
America’s Road Team Captains Complete Weight Loss Challenge, Meet Health Goals
American Trucking Association
March 7, 2017
American Trucking Associations and America’s Road Team are congratulating five America’s Road Team Captains for successfully meeting their team’s weight loss goals and leading the field in Healthy Fleet’s 10 Pound Challenge.
Read more...
What Guttmacher got wrong … again.
Americans United for Life
March 8, 2017
With all the talk about the “need” for more funds for Planned Parenthood, many in the media ignore the reality that nobody goes to the nation’s number one abortion provider for a flu shot. Full-service medical care is available in many locations nationwide, along with contraception if that is desired. But the lucrative and grisly product that Planned Parenthood sells, first and foremost, is abortion. Redirecting scarce taxpayer and healthcare dollars to full-service, actual medical facilities is the right thing to do for mothers and their unborn children.
Read more...
USDA Issues Update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Tennessee
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Mar 7, 2017
USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed the full subtype for the highly pathogenic H7 avian influenza reported in Lincoln County, TN. The virus has been identified as North American wild bird lineage H7N9 HPAI based upon full genome sequence analysis of the samples at the NVSL. All eight gene segments of the virus are North American wild bird lineage. This is NOT the same as the China H7N9 virus that has impacted poultry and infected humans in Asia. While the subtype is the same as the China H7N9 lineage that emerged in 2013, this is a different virus and is genetically distinct from the China H7N9 lineage.
Read more...
TimesDaily
March 7, 2017
Jessica Thompson is just weeks from delivering her fourth child, a son, and she wants a midwife-assisted birth at her Lauderdale County home.
But that would be against the law.
Alabama law does not allow certified professional midwives to practice in the state. The law has stipulations for nurse midwives to practice under an Alabama doctor, but there are few practicing in the state, and even those can't assist a woman desiring to delivery outside a hospital.
Read more...
Trump signs Abraham gun rights bill into law
Ralph Abraham (R-LA, 5th)
March 2, 2017
The law ends a regulation implemented in the midnight hours of the Obama administration that required the Social Security Administration to submit to the FBI the names of all beneficiaries who are assigned a representative payee to manage their financial affairs due to a mental disability. Their names would then be put in the National Instant Criminal Background Check system, which would effectively eliminate their Second Amendment right to buy and possess firearms without due process.
Read more...
Congresswoman Adams Statement on the American Healthcare Act
March 7, 2017
Alma Adams (D-NC, 12th)
Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12) released the following statement after Congressional Republicans announced their healthcare plan intended to replace the Affordable Care Act.
Read more...
Allen on American Health Care Act
Rick Allen (R-GA, 12th)
March 7, 2017
House Republicans on the Ways and Means Committee and Energy and Commerce Committee recently introduced the American Health Care Act. This legislation is part of the House Republican agenda to bring Obamacare relief to Americans. Congressman Rick Allen (R-Ga.-12) released the following statement:
Read more...
House Approves NASA Transition Authorization Act
Brian Babin (R-TX, 36th)
March 7, 2017
The U.S. House of Representatives today approved the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 (S.442), which cleared the Senate last month. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation reaffirms Congress’ commitment to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and directs NASA to pursue a balanced portfolio of activities. It now goes to the President’s desk to be signed into law.
Read more...
BANKS STATEMENT ON OBAMACARE REPLACEMENT PLAN
Jim Banks (R-IN, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) today released the following statement regarding the Republican plan to replace Obamacare:
Read more...
BANKS INTRODUCES BILL TO ALLOW VETERANS TO BE BURIED CLOSER TO HOME
Jim Banks (R-IN, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) today introduced a bill that would authorize the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to pay for the transportation of a deceased veteran’s remains to a state-owned or tribal-owned veterans cemetery. The VA is currently only authorized to transport such remains to a national veterans cemetery.
Read more...
REP. BARLETTA’S STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDER
Lou Barletta (R-PA, 11th)
March 6, 2017
Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11) today applauded President Trump’s latest executive order, which pauses the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days. It also suspends the issuance of new visas for 90 days for individuals from six countries that either are designated as state sponsors of terrorism, or have become terrorist hotbeds. The six countries are Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.
Read more...
Rep. Bass Rips New Health Proposal
Karen Bass (D-CA, 37th)
March 7, 2017
On Tuesday, Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.) issued the following statement in response to the House Republican plan to repeal the Affordable Care Act.
Read more...
Beatty Statement on Affordable Care Act Repeal and Replace Bill
Joyce Beatty (D-OH, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
On March 6th, House Republicans released legislation to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. In response, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement:
Read more...
Rep. Ami Bera Statement on Passage of NASA Transition Authorization Act
Amy Berra (D-CA, 7th)
Mar 7, 2017
Rep. Ami Bera, ranking member of the House Subcommittee on Space, released the following statement after the House voted to pass the NASA Transition Authorization Act, which establishes a funding range for the nation’s space program.
Read more...
Cotton Statement on China’s Criticism of Missile-Defense System in South Korea
Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR)
Mar 7, 2017
U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement in response to China's criticism of the THAAD missile-defense system recently deployed in South Korea:
Read more...
Congress Sends Bipartisan Cruz-Nelson NASA Transition Authorization Act to the President’s Desk
Senator Ted Cruz- (R - TX)
Mar 7, 2017
The U.S. House of Representatives today passed S. 442, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Transition Authorization Act of 2017, a bill originally introduced in the U.S. Senate by U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), along with Sens. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas). In the House, the chairmen with committees of jurisdiction for the bill are U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas), chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, and Rep. Brian Babin (R-Texas), chairman of the House Space Subcommittee. The legislation provides stability for NASA to sustain and build upon existing national space investments designed to advance space exploration and science with an overall authorization level of $19.508 billion for fiscal year 2017. With the House’s passage of the bill today, the legislation now heads to the White House to await President Donald Trump’s signature.
Read more...
Donnelly Joins Bipartisan Group of Senators to Introduce Bill Requiring U.S. Amateur Athletic Organizations, Members to Report Sexual Abuse
Senator Joe Donnely - (D - IN)
March 6, 2017
U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly joined a bipartisan group of Senators in introducing legislation that would require amateur athletics governing bodies to immediately report sex-abuse allegations to local or federal law enforcement, or a child-welfare agency designated by the Justice Department. The bill stems from recent allegations of sexual abuse made against personnel involved with USA Gymnastics, USA Swimming and USA Taekwondo. The bill was led by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and also introduced by Susan Collins (R-ME), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Jeff Flake (R-AZ) Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Todd Young (R-IN.)
Read more...
Duckworth Statement on the President’s Newest Discriminatory Executive Order
Senator Tammy Ducksworth (D - IL)
March 6, 2017
U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement regarding the executive order signed by the President today restricting travel from six Muslim-majority countries:
Read more...
Planned Parenthood CEOs Raking in the Cash at Taxpayers' Expense
American Life League
March 8, 2017
American Life League’s Stop Planned Parenthood International (STOPP) completed and released its third report on the compensation of the chief executive officer of each of Planned Parenthood’s 56 affiliates across the country. The report showed a significant increase in CEO compensation since the last report released in 2015.
Read more...
APA Concerned About Proposed ACA Replacement Bill
American Psychiatric Association
March 7, 2017
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is deeply concerned that the proposed ACA replacement released last night will negatively impact care for people with mental illness and substance use disorders. The APA urges continued support and expanded access to quality, evidence-based mental health and substance use services.
Read more...
America’s Road Team Captains Complete Weight Loss Challenge, Meet Health Goals
American Trucking Association
March 7, 2017
American Trucking Associations and America’s Road Team are congratulating five America’s Road Team Captains for successfully meeting their team’s weight loss goals and leading the field in Healthy Fleet’s 10 Pound Challenge.
Read more...
What Guttmacher got wrong … again.
Americans United for Life
March 8, 2017
With all the talk about the “need” for more funds for Planned Parenthood, many in the media ignore the reality that nobody goes to the nation’s number one abortion provider for a flu shot. Full-service medical care is available in many locations nationwide, along with contraception if that is desired. But the lucrative and grisly product that Planned Parenthood sells, first and foremost, is abortion. Redirecting scarce taxpayer and healthcare dollars to full-service, actual medical facilities is the right thing to do for mothers and their unborn children.
Read more...
USDA Issues Update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Tennessee
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Mar 7, 2017
USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed the full subtype for the highly pathogenic H7 avian influenza reported in Lincoln County, TN. The virus has been identified as North American wild bird lineage H7N9 HPAI based upon full genome sequence analysis of the samples at the NVSL. All eight gene segments of the virus are North American wild bird lineage. This is NOT the same as the China H7N9 virus that has impacted poultry and infected humans in Asia. While the subtype is the same as the China H7N9 lineage that emerged in 2013, this is a different virus and is genetically distinct from the China H7N9 lineage.
Read more...
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
People, Groups and Organization News: Free Speech, World Trade Organization, Children, Target Boycott, Obamacare, Travel Ban
Wisconsin photographer, blogger tied up by law that would also force writer to work for Trump
Alliance Defending Freedom
March 7, 2017
Alliance Defending Freedom attorneys representing a photographer and blogger in Madison filed suit against city and state officials in a Wisconsin court Tuesday. The lawsuit challenges a sweeping local ordinance and a state law that force commissioned creative professionals to promote messages that violate their beliefs.
Read more...
WTO Disproportionately Targets U.S. Trade Enforcement Laws
Alliance for American Manufacturing
March 1, 2017
By overstepping its mandate and disproportionately targeting America’s trade enforcement laws, the World Trade Organization (WTO) is threatening the United States’ ability to protect manufacturers and workers from unfair trade, according to a new white paper distributed by the Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM).
Read more...
U.S. Presidents Join Gen. Colin Powell and Mrs. Alma Powell to Urge Americans to Recommit to Kids
America's Promise Alliance
March 2, 2017
America’s Promise Alliance, the nation’s largest network dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth, will commemorate its 20th Anniversary with Recommit to Kids | The Summit for America’s Future, a daylong event to refocus the nation on issues concerning children and youth.
Former U.S. Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H. W. Bush and Jimmy Carter have signed on as honorary co-hosts of the Summit, along with America’s Promise Alliance’s Founding Chair Gen. Colin Powell and Chair Mrs. Alma Powell, urging every American to recommit to kids. The Summit will be held at New York City’s Marriott Marquis on April 18 and will feature prominent leaders from the business, philanthropic, nonprofit, government, education and faith communities.
Read more...
AFA Target boycott crashes corporate earnings
American Family Association
March 1, 2017
AFA's 1.4 million supporters are dealing a crippling blow to Target over their dangerous bathroom policy. The Target boycott, launched in April 2016, is causing a significant drop in foot traffic to the store. Effects of the boycott are clear in Target's financial report released February 28. The report indicated a dramatic drop in Target's sales and earnings during October, November, and December. This bad news for Target resulted in the company's stock value dropping 13 percent on the day of the report.
Read more...
The American Health Care Act is a Much Needed First Step in Returning Power to States
American Legislative Exchange Council
March 7, 2017
Last night, Congress introduced a bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The new legislation, titled the American Health Care Act proposes a number of actions that would preserve popular elements of the ACA while returning power to the states. Reducing the regulatory burden on states will give them the opportunity to modernize our health care system and provide better care to all Americans.
Read more...
AJC STATEMENT ON REVISED EXECUTIVE ORDER
American Jewish Committee
March 6, 2017
AJC remains concerned by President Trump’s revised executive order on immigration and refugees. While it should be noted that some of the worst features of the prior executive order have fortunately been rectified, the fact remains that the temporary suspension of admission of all refugees, the sharp reduction in the overall number of refugees that the U.S. will accept, and the blanket temporary ban on immigrants from named countries run contrary to the values our nation holds dear. Moreover, these measures do not effectively address the legitimate security threats we face.
Read more...
AJC QUESTIONS BAN ON BDS PROPONENTS ENTERING ISRAEL
American Jewish Committee
March 6, 2017
AJC is troubled by a new law, adopted by the Knesset yesterday, that will bar foreign nationals who have publicly expressed support for boycotting Israel or who work on behalf of organizations supporting the BDS (boycott, divestment, and sanctions) movement from entering Israel.
Read more...
Alliance Defending Freedom
March 7, 2017
Alliance Defending Freedom attorneys representing a photographer and blogger in Madison filed suit against city and state officials in a Wisconsin court Tuesday. The lawsuit challenges a sweeping local ordinance and a state law that force commissioned creative professionals to promote messages that violate their beliefs.
Read more...
WTO Disproportionately Targets U.S. Trade Enforcement Laws
Alliance for American Manufacturing
March 1, 2017
By overstepping its mandate and disproportionately targeting America’s trade enforcement laws, the World Trade Organization (WTO) is threatening the United States’ ability to protect manufacturers and workers from unfair trade, according to a new white paper distributed by the Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM).
Read more...
U.S. Presidents Join Gen. Colin Powell and Mrs. Alma Powell to Urge Americans to Recommit to Kids
America's Promise Alliance
March 2, 2017
America’s Promise Alliance, the nation’s largest network dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth, will commemorate its 20th Anniversary with Recommit to Kids | The Summit for America’s Future, a daylong event to refocus the nation on issues concerning children and youth.
Former U.S. Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H. W. Bush and Jimmy Carter have signed on as honorary co-hosts of the Summit, along with America’s Promise Alliance’s Founding Chair Gen. Colin Powell and Chair Mrs. Alma Powell, urging every American to recommit to kids. The Summit will be held at New York City’s Marriott Marquis on April 18 and will feature prominent leaders from the business, philanthropic, nonprofit, government, education and faith communities.
Read more...
AFA Target boycott crashes corporate earnings
American Family Association
March 1, 2017
AFA's 1.4 million supporters are dealing a crippling blow to Target over their dangerous bathroom policy. The Target boycott, launched in April 2016, is causing a significant drop in foot traffic to the store. Effects of the boycott are clear in Target's financial report released February 28. The report indicated a dramatic drop in Target's sales and earnings during October, November, and December. This bad news for Target resulted in the company's stock value dropping 13 percent on the day of the report.
Read more...
The American Health Care Act is a Much Needed First Step in Returning Power to States
American Legislative Exchange Council
March 7, 2017
Last night, Congress introduced a bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The new legislation, titled the American Health Care Act proposes a number of actions that would preserve popular elements of the ACA while returning power to the states. Reducing the regulatory burden on states will give them the opportunity to modernize our health care system and provide better care to all Americans.
Read more...
AJC STATEMENT ON REVISED EXECUTIVE ORDER
American Jewish Committee
March 6, 2017
AJC remains concerned by President Trump’s revised executive order on immigration and refugees. While it should be noted that some of the worst features of the prior executive order have fortunately been rectified, the fact remains that the temporary suspension of admission of all refugees, the sharp reduction in the overall number of refugees that the U.S. will accept, and the blanket temporary ban on immigrants from named countries run contrary to the values our nation holds dear. Moreover, these measures do not effectively address the legitimate security threats we face.
Read more...
AJC QUESTIONS BAN ON BDS PROPONENTS ENTERING ISRAEL
American Jewish Committee
March 6, 2017
AJC is troubled by a new law, adopted by the Knesset yesterday, that will bar foreign nationals who have publicly expressed support for boycotting Israel or who work on behalf of organizations supporting the BDS (boycott, divestment, and sanctions) movement from entering Israel.
Read more...
House News: Self-Driving Vehicles, Obamacare, Travel Ban, Ryan Zinke, Prescription Drugs, Clean Line Project, People with Disabilities
U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow and U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell called on the Trump Administration to prioritize the development and testing of connected and self-driving vehicles in the President’s proposed budget for 2018. The Members of Congress sent a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney and Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Elaine Chao urging them to include $200 million in their 2018 federal budget request for facilities designated by DOT as proving grounds for automated vehicle testing. In January, DOT designated ten sites across the country as national proving grounds, including the American Center for Mobility in Ypsilanti.
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Republicans released legislation on March 6, 2017 to repeal Obamacare.
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"The new Executive Order signed by President Trump is nothing more than an un-American Muslim ban. Sadly, this ban will make our country less safe. Instead of strengthening our security, President Trump continues to betray the values that make America a gracious nation." --Juan Vargas (D-CA, 51st)
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Ryan Zinke was confirmed as Interior Secretary.
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Greg Walden releases legislation to repeal and replace Obamacare
Greg Walden (R-OR, 2nd)
March 6, 2017
U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-Hood River), chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, today released legislation as part of House Republicans’ effort to repeal and replace Obamacare through a budget process known as reconciliation. The legislation, part of House Republicans’ American Health Care Act, creates a new and innovative Patient and State Stability Fund to help low-income Americans afford health care and to repair the damage done to state insurance markets by Obamacare. Additionally, the legislation lays out a plan to responsibly unwind Obamacare’s Medicaid expansion while prioritizing the program’s funds to the most vulnerable through a per capita allotment.
Read more...
“Obamacare is collapsing under its own weight, driving up health care costs, and limiting options for individuals and families. We made a promise to the American people to repeal this broken law and replace it with a stable transition to a better system that lowers costs, increases choices, and protects patients. That is exactly what the American Health Care Act will do." --Jackie Walorski (R-IN, 2nd)
"This bill perfectly embodies what one would expect from Trumpcare: It promises more, delivers less and neglects the old, the poor and the sick, while rewarding insurance companies, the pharmaceutical industry, and the rich with massive tax breaks. Trumpcare will make America sick again.” --Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL, 23rd) (But, if you like your doctor you can keep him)
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Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, is scheduled to meet with President Donald J. Trump on March 8, 2017, to discuss lowering prescription drug prices. Cummings will be joined by Rep. Peter Welch of Vermont, a senior Democrat on the Oversight Committee and the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Dr. Redonda G. Miller, President of The Johns Hopkins Hospital.
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Arkansas Delegation Urges Secretary Perry to Review Clean Line Project
Steve Womack (R-AR, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
“Not only are Arkansans facing the prospect of losing their property due to a decision by the federal government, but your department risks codifying into law the practice of federal eminent domain seizures. This dangerous precedent is antithetical to your distinguished record as a champion for states’ rights in the face of federal overreach,” members wrote to Secretary Perry.
Read more...
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Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) re-introduced his bipartisan bill to protect people with disabilities, by ensuring they have access to vital equipment (H.R. 1361). The Congressman’s legislation, which clarifies the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) of 2008, is an important bill to secure the essential specialized power wheelchairs and related accessories relied on by people with disabilities and their families.
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Republicans released legislation on March 6, 2017 to repeal Obamacare.
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"The new Executive Order signed by President Trump is nothing more than an un-American Muslim ban. Sadly, this ban will make our country less safe. Instead of strengthening our security, President Trump continues to betray the values that make America a gracious nation." --Juan Vargas (D-CA, 51st)
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Ryan Zinke was confirmed as Interior Secretary.
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Greg Walden releases legislation to repeal and replace Obamacare
Greg Walden (R-OR, 2nd)
March 6, 2017
U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-Hood River), chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, today released legislation as part of House Republicans’ effort to repeal and replace Obamacare through a budget process known as reconciliation. The legislation, part of House Republicans’ American Health Care Act, creates a new and innovative Patient and State Stability Fund to help low-income Americans afford health care and to repair the damage done to state insurance markets by Obamacare. Additionally, the legislation lays out a plan to responsibly unwind Obamacare’s Medicaid expansion while prioritizing the program’s funds to the most vulnerable through a per capita allotment.
Read more...
“Obamacare is collapsing under its own weight, driving up health care costs, and limiting options for individuals and families. We made a promise to the American people to repeal this broken law and replace it with a stable transition to a better system that lowers costs, increases choices, and protects patients. That is exactly what the American Health Care Act will do." --Jackie Walorski (R-IN, 2nd)
"This bill perfectly embodies what one would expect from Trumpcare: It promises more, delivers less and neglects the old, the poor and the sick, while rewarding insurance companies, the pharmaceutical industry, and the rich with massive tax breaks. Trumpcare will make America sick again.” --Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL, 23rd) (But, if you like your doctor you can keep him)
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Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, is scheduled to meet with President Donald J. Trump on March 8, 2017, to discuss lowering prescription drug prices. Cummings will be joined by Rep. Peter Welch of Vermont, a senior Democrat on the Oversight Committee and the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Dr. Redonda G. Miller, President of The Johns Hopkins Hospital.
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Arkansas Delegation Urges Secretary Perry to Review Clean Line Project
Steve Womack (R-AR, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
“Not only are Arkansans facing the prospect of losing their property due to a decision by the federal government, but your department risks codifying into law the practice of federal eminent domain seizures. This dangerous precedent is antithetical to your distinguished record as a champion for states’ rights in the face of federal overreach,” members wrote to Secretary Perry.
Read more...
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Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) re-introduced his bipartisan bill to protect people with disabilities, by ensuring they have access to vital equipment (H.R. 1361). The Congressman’s legislation, which clarifies the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) of 2008, is an important bill to secure the essential specialized power wheelchairs and related accessories relied on by people with disabilities and their families.
Monday, March 6, 2017
News from the House: Travel Ban, Women, EPA, WOTUS, Domestic Manufacturing Deduction, Ben Carson, Science, Sexual Assault
President Trump signed a new executive order restricting travel to the United States from six Muslim-majority countries for 90 days and freezing refugee resettlement for 120 days.
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Donald Trump signed into law the INSPIRE Women Act that will help our girls and young women on the important goal of increasing the number of women who go into the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.
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In November of 2016, the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began requesting information from oil and gas producers regarding methane emissions from existing production well and facility sites. Though the surveys were requested by the EPA, costly fines would have been assessed on individual oil and gas operators for non-compliance. The EPA has withdrawn this request.
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Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring March as Women’s History Month—the origins of which are rooted in California’s Fifth Congressional District.
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U.S. Congressman Mac Thornberry (R-Clarendon) applauded the executive order signed by President Trump to rewrite the Obama-era regulation related to “Waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) and has introduced legislation to solve the problem permanently. Thornberry’s bill, the “Federal Regulatory Certainty for Water Act,” H.R. 1261, clarifies the definition of “navigable waters” in the Clean Water Act (CWA) as waters that are navigable-in-fact or are permanently flowing bodies of water that physically connect to navigable waters.
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Congressman Pat Tiberi (R-OH) and Congressman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) introduced legislation that clarifies the appropriate application of the Section 199 domestic manufacturing deduction (DMD) to contract manufacturing. Under current Treasury Department regulations, the DMD is unevenly applied to U.S. companies who utilize contract manufacturing arrangements, which is contrary to Congress’s original intent to incentivize American manufacturing. Tiberi and Neal’s legislation would level the playing field for non-vertically integrated manufacturers who employ U.S. workers so that they can spur needed investment and create jobs.
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About Ben Carson:
“All Nevada families deserve a roof over their heads. I have little reason to believe that Ben Carson can provide that. He admitted he had no government experience and did not want to cripple President Trump by taking a job in the administration. The HUD Secretary must ensure that Nevadans have access to rental and mortgage assistance for individuals, families, the elderly, and disabled. These programs are a vital safety net for at-risk Americans. Our state deserves someone with knowledge and experience in public housing. Ben Carson doesn’t fill that bill. Putting him in charge of urban development reflects Trump’s disdain for the people in cities who voted against him.” --Dina Titus (D-NV, 1st)
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House Science Committee members Representative Paul Tonko (NY-20) and Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30), along with Representatives Niki Tsongas (MA-3) and Alan Lowenthal (CA-47), announced the introduction of the Scientific Integrity Act requiring U.S. federal agencies to adopt or strengthen policies to insulate government-directed research from the influence of political pressure and special interests.
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Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA-3) urged military officials to expand opportunities for military sexual assault victims to revisit and revise their discharge records, following suggestions by male sexual assault survivor advocates.
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Donald Trump signed into law the INSPIRE Women Act that will help our girls and young women on the important goal of increasing the number of women who go into the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.
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In November of 2016, the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began requesting information from oil and gas producers regarding methane emissions from existing production well and facility sites. Though the surveys were requested by the EPA, costly fines would have been assessed on individual oil and gas operators for non-compliance. The EPA has withdrawn this request.
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Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring March as Women’s History Month—the origins of which are rooted in California’s Fifth Congressional District.
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U.S. Congressman Mac Thornberry (R-Clarendon) applauded the executive order signed by President Trump to rewrite the Obama-era regulation related to “Waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) and has introduced legislation to solve the problem permanently. Thornberry’s bill, the “Federal Regulatory Certainty for Water Act,” H.R. 1261, clarifies the definition of “navigable waters” in the Clean Water Act (CWA) as waters that are navigable-in-fact or are permanently flowing bodies of water that physically connect to navigable waters.
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Congressman Pat Tiberi (R-OH) and Congressman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) introduced legislation that clarifies the appropriate application of the Section 199 domestic manufacturing deduction (DMD) to contract manufacturing. Under current Treasury Department regulations, the DMD is unevenly applied to U.S. companies who utilize contract manufacturing arrangements, which is contrary to Congress’s original intent to incentivize American manufacturing. Tiberi and Neal’s legislation would level the playing field for non-vertically integrated manufacturers who employ U.S. workers so that they can spur needed investment and create jobs.
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About Ben Carson:
“All Nevada families deserve a roof over their heads. I have little reason to believe that Ben Carson can provide that. He admitted he had no government experience and did not want to cripple President Trump by taking a job in the administration. The HUD Secretary must ensure that Nevadans have access to rental and mortgage assistance for individuals, families, the elderly, and disabled. These programs are a vital safety net for at-risk Americans. Our state deserves someone with knowledge and experience in public housing. Ben Carson doesn’t fill that bill. Putting him in charge of urban development reflects Trump’s disdain for the people in cities who voted against him.” --Dina Titus (D-NV, 1st)
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House Science Committee members Representative Paul Tonko (NY-20) and Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30), along with Representatives Niki Tsongas (MA-3) and Alan Lowenthal (CA-47), announced the introduction of the Scientific Integrity Act requiring U.S. federal agencies to adopt or strengthen policies to insulate government-directed research from the influence of political pressure and special interests.
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Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA-3) urged military officials to expand opportunities for military sexual assault victims to revisit and revise their discharge records, following suggestions by male sexual assault survivor advocates.
Thursday, February 2, 2017
Travel Ban, Obamacare, Federal Hiring Freeze, Immigration, Fishery, Free Speech, 2nd Amendment, Rules
Will Hurd (R-TX, 23rd) said, concerning Trump's travel ban, that a target has been placed on our military men's and women's backs by increasing tensions in an already volatile region. These men and women are fighting alongside citizens of those countries in order to keep Islamic Extremists on the run and off our shores.
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U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper (R-MS, 3rd) introduced H.R. 633, the Patient Fairness and Relief Act of 2017, which allows individuals to maintain the health insurance policies they had before passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
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Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.), Chairwoman of the House Armed Services Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, on Tuesday sent a letter to President Trump urging prompt clarification of his memorandum implementing a federal hiring freeze as it pertains to Department of Defense (DOD) civilian personnel and support for complete staffing of DOD contracting personnel.
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Upon returning to the nation’s capital, Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) added his support to three bills that prevent President Trump’s harmful executive order from being administered by the United States government.
If passed, the Statue of Liberty Values Act (SOLVe Act) would prevent the executive order from having any force of law and prohibit any federal funds or fees from being used to carry it out. The Freedom of Religion Act states that the United States could not bar foreigners from coming to the United States on the basis of their religious beliefs. The No Religious Registration Act would stop the government from creating or using a database of religious affiliation for the purpose of surveillance or of classifying U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and visa seekers.
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“President Trump made clear that keeping America safe is a top priority for his Administration, and it is refreshing to see that he is willing to take swift and decisive action to achieve that goal. And, while the rollout of his executive action could have gone more smoothly, I believe most Americans, and particularly the East Texans I represent, would agree that it’s just common sense to take a closer look at people trying to enter the U.S. from nations with broad terrorist networks." Jeb Hensarling (R-TX, 5th)
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The U.S. House of Representatives passed Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler’s bipartisan bill to permanently extend a decades old fishery management agreement that has been vital to Washington state’s Dungeness crab fishery. The bill passed overwhelmingly by a vote of 388-0.
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Congressmen Jody Hice (GA-10) and Steve Scalise (LA-01) introduced H.R. 781, the Free Speech Fairness Act, which would amend the U.S. tax code to restore free speech for 501(c)(3) organizations including churches, nonprofits, and educational institutions, so long as they are (1) made in the ordinary course of the organization’s regular and customary activities in carrying out its tax-exempt purpose, and (2) any expenditure related to this are de minimis. A companion bill, S.264, was introduced by Senator James Lankford (R-OK) in the Senate.
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The House passed H.J.Res. 40, a resolution to disapprove of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) rule to share information with the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) on individuals who receive Disability Insurance benefits. Following passage of the resolution, Congressman French Hill (R-AR, 2nd) released the following statement:
“Having a disability and seeking help through the federal government should not be a factor in considering whether or not someone is mentally capable of owning or purchasing a firearm. This rule from SSA serves no real purpose other than to limit the Second Amendment rights of the American people, and I am confident the administration and Congress will be able to reverse this ill-conceived rule. I will always fight to uphold Arkansans right to bear arms.”
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U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08), author of bipartisan legislation that passed the House with a veto-proof majority and aimed to strengthen vetting of Syrian and Iraqi refugees, released the following statement on President Trump's exceutive order on refugees:
"At a time of grave security threats, President Trump is right to pause the flow of refugees from countries where terrorism is rampant until we can properly vet them and implement additional screening for individuals traveling to and from these countries. The facts are President Obama's own intel official told us ISIS is trying to infiltrate the refugee program and his Homeland Security Secretary and FBI Director told us we can't properly vet all of these refugees. I do have concerns that the executive order has caused confusion for those with green cards and will work with my colleagues and the administration to clarify it."
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Water, Power, and Oceans Subcommittee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-CA) and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ) sent a letter to President Trump today urging him to rescind the “one in, two out” executive order on federal rules issued earlier this week and an earlier memorandum instituting a regulatory freeze. These two actions have the combined effect of preventing the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) from opening or closing commercial and recreational fishing seasons in federal waters; making in-season adjustments to conservation and management measures; or implementing new or revised fishery management plans without first seeking a waiver from the Trump administration.
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Capital Markets Chairman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) released the following statement after the House passed House Joint Resolution 41, Rep Huizenga's legislation to reform a burdensome provision of Dodd-Frank and require the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to rethink their approach to rulemaking:
"Last night's vote helps reset the regulatory process," said Capital Markets Subcommittee Chairman Bill Huizenga. "For too long, regulators have saddled U.S. companies with burdensome regulations putting them at a competitive disadvantage on the global stage. By sending the SEC back to the drawing board, Congress is demonstrating that it is serious about strengthening the economy, boosting private sector job creation, and helping American workers."
During the debate on H.J. Res. 41, Congressman Huizenga explained the core mission of the SEC and refuted false claims made about his legislation. To watch Rep Huizenga's speech, click play on the video below.
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Congressman Duncan Hunter (R-CA) and Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) sent a bipartisan letter to President Trump in support of the request by Secretary of Defense James Mattis to exempt Iraqis who served alongside our military. The letter expands on the need for a special review process for those who directly supported American personnel overseas.
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U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper (R-MS, 3rd) introduced H.R. 633, the Patient Fairness and Relief Act of 2017, which allows individuals to maintain the health insurance policies they had before passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
#####
Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.), Chairwoman of the House Armed Services Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, on Tuesday sent a letter to President Trump urging prompt clarification of his memorandum implementing a federal hiring freeze as it pertains to Department of Defense (DOD) civilian personnel and support for complete staffing of DOD contracting personnel.
#####
Upon returning to the nation’s capital, Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) added his support to three bills that prevent President Trump’s harmful executive order from being administered by the United States government.
If passed, the Statue of Liberty Values Act (SOLVe Act) would prevent the executive order from having any force of law and prohibit any federal funds or fees from being used to carry it out. The Freedom of Religion Act states that the United States could not bar foreigners from coming to the United States on the basis of their religious beliefs. The No Religious Registration Act would stop the government from creating or using a database of religious affiliation for the purpose of surveillance or of classifying U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and visa seekers.
#####
“President Trump made clear that keeping America safe is a top priority for his Administration, and it is refreshing to see that he is willing to take swift and decisive action to achieve that goal. And, while the rollout of his executive action could have gone more smoothly, I believe most Americans, and particularly the East Texans I represent, would agree that it’s just common sense to take a closer look at people trying to enter the U.S. from nations with broad terrorist networks." Jeb Hensarling (R-TX, 5th)
#####
The U.S. House of Representatives passed Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler’s bipartisan bill to permanently extend a decades old fishery management agreement that has been vital to Washington state’s Dungeness crab fishery. The bill passed overwhelmingly by a vote of 388-0.
#####
Congressmen Jody Hice (GA-10) and Steve Scalise (LA-01) introduced H.R. 781, the Free Speech Fairness Act, which would amend the U.S. tax code to restore free speech for 501(c)(3) organizations including churches, nonprofits, and educational institutions, so long as they are (1) made in the ordinary course of the organization’s regular and customary activities in carrying out its tax-exempt purpose, and (2) any expenditure related to this are de minimis. A companion bill, S.264, was introduced by Senator James Lankford (R-OK) in the Senate.
#####
The House passed H.J.Res. 40, a resolution to disapprove of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) rule to share information with the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) on individuals who receive Disability Insurance benefits. Following passage of the resolution, Congressman French Hill (R-AR, 2nd) released the following statement:
“Having a disability and seeking help through the federal government should not be a factor in considering whether or not someone is mentally capable of owning or purchasing a firearm. This rule from SSA serves no real purpose other than to limit the Second Amendment rights of the American people, and I am confident the administration and Congress will be able to reverse this ill-conceived rule. I will always fight to uphold Arkansans right to bear arms.”
#####
U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08), author of bipartisan legislation that passed the House with a veto-proof majority and aimed to strengthen vetting of Syrian and Iraqi refugees, released the following statement on President Trump's exceutive order on refugees:
"At a time of grave security threats, President Trump is right to pause the flow of refugees from countries where terrorism is rampant until we can properly vet them and implement additional screening for individuals traveling to and from these countries. The facts are President Obama's own intel official told us ISIS is trying to infiltrate the refugee program and his Homeland Security Secretary and FBI Director told us we can't properly vet all of these refugees. I do have concerns that the executive order has caused confusion for those with green cards and will work with my colleagues and the administration to clarify it."
#####
Water, Power, and Oceans Subcommittee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-CA) and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ) sent a letter to President Trump today urging him to rescind the “one in, two out” executive order on federal rules issued earlier this week and an earlier memorandum instituting a regulatory freeze. These two actions have the combined effect of preventing the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) from opening or closing commercial and recreational fishing seasons in federal waters; making in-season adjustments to conservation and management measures; or implementing new or revised fishery management plans without first seeking a waiver from the Trump administration.
#####
Capital Markets Chairman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) released the following statement after the House passed House Joint Resolution 41, Rep Huizenga's legislation to reform a burdensome provision of Dodd-Frank and require the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to rethink their approach to rulemaking:
"Last night's vote helps reset the regulatory process," said Capital Markets Subcommittee Chairman Bill Huizenga. "For too long, regulators have saddled U.S. companies with burdensome regulations putting them at a competitive disadvantage on the global stage. By sending the SEC back to the drawing board, Congress is demonstrating that it is serious about strengthening the economy, boosting private sector job creation, and helping American workers."
During the debate on H.J. Res. 41, Congressman Huizenga explained the core mission of the SEC and refuted false claims made about his legislation. To watch Rep Huizenga's speech, click play on the video below.
#####
Congressman Duncan Hunter (R-CA) and Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) sent a bipartisan letter to President Trump in support of the request by Secretary of Defense James Mattis to exempt Iraqis who served alongside our military. The letter expands on the need for a special review process for those who directly supported American personnel overseas.
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