Swalwell, Hudson, Stefanik Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Modernize Online Job-Searching Services
Eric Swalwell (D-CA, 15th)
June 27, 2017
This bill directs the Department of Labor (DOL) to create guidelines for One-Stop Career Center websites – many of which are clunky and outdated – to dramatically improve their design and offer job-seeking services online.
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Rep. Takano Statement on DOL Decision Regarding Overtime Regulations for Middle-Class Workers
Mark Takano (D-CA, 41st)
June 30, 2017
Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, released the following statement after the Trump Administration decided to defend the use of a salary threshold to determine workers’ eligibility for overtime pay, but declined to defend the threshold previously set by the Obama Administration, which would have extended overtime protections to millions of middle-class workers.
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HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PASSES KATE'S LAW
Scott Taylor (R VA, 2nd)
June 29, 2017
This legislation enhances penalties for deported felons who return to the United States and allows for the remainder of a sentence to be reapplied to an alien who leaves before completion of their imprisonment term and returns to the United States.
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CONGRESSWOMAN CLAUDIA TENNEY HELPS PASS BILLS TO COMBAT SANCTUARY CITIES, KEEP AMERICANS SAFE
Claudia Tenney (R NY, 22nd)
June 30, 2017
“Dangerous sanctuary city policies undermine the rule of law while putting innocent American lives in jeopardy. For too long, families have suffered at the hands of unenforced, lax immigration policies. Tragically, if the rule of law had been enforced, the deaths of Kate Steinle, Sarah Root, Grant Ronnebeck and many others could have been prevented,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney. “Today, we kept a promise to the American people by putting their safety first. These bills are common-sense solutions that will reinforce existing immigration laws to prevent criminal illegal aliens from becoming repeat offenders in our communities.”
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Thompson, Tsongas Introduce Resolution to Mark July as ‘Park and Recreation Month’
The Stuff Gazette
July 3, 2017
H. Res. 406 recognizes the important role that public parks, recreation facilities and activities play in the lives of Americans and the contributions of employees and volunteers who work daily to maintain public parks across the nation.
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Thompson Introduces Bill to Preserve Family Farms, Businesses
Mike Thompson (D-CA, 5th)
June 30, 2017
“Building a legacy for your children and grandchildren is a key part of the American Dream, and families deserve to know they won’t lose what they’ve built—especially after losing a loved one,” said Thompson. “Many family farms are rich in land but cash poor. A major tax on their estate could force them to sell off the very assets they worked so hard to build. That isn’t right. While some have proposed simply wiping out the estate tax altogether, we should address this specific issue without creating a new fiscal hole by fully repealing the tax.”
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Reps. Tiberi, Burgess, Dingell, and Thompson Introduce Bill to Ease Burdens on Medical Providers
Pat Tiberi (R-OH, 12th)
June 30, 2017
This legislation will amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the volume of future electronic health record-related significant hardship requests.
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CELEBRATING OUR INDEPENDENCE
The Stuff Gazette
July 3, 2017
For 241 years, Americans have demonstrated their passion for living in a country founded on protecting “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” by celebrating Independence Day. This tradition is a celebration of the actions our founding fathers took when they declared that our new nation would be independent from the tyrannical crown of England. Since then, the United States has overcome periods of adversity and made remarkable contributions to the rest of world, all in an effort to preserve our way of life.
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The Unpopular Truth
Monday, July 3, 2017
Friday, June 30, 2017
Sanctuary Cities, MOTION Act, Immigration, Seniors, GPS Tracking, Terrorist, Human Rights
Rep. Austin Scott Lauds House Passage of Bills that ‘Crack Down’ on Sanctuary Cities
Austin Scott (R-GA, 8th)
June 29, 2017
“For too many years, a lack of immigration enforcement and the spread of ‘sanctuary cities’ has failed the America people and cost innocent lives,” said Rep. Scott. “I am proud to stand with my colleagues today in passing legislation that not only strengthens our immigration policies by cracking down on ‘sanctuary cities’, but also enhances deterrents for criminal aliens who seek to reenter the United States and those states and cities who ignore our immigration laws.”
Read more...
Congressman Sensenbrenner Reintroduces MOTION Act in the House of Representatives
James F. Sensenbrenner (R-WI, 5th)
June 29, 2017
The MOTION Act would allow railroad employees to remain on duty and continue working in excess of federal hours of service limits to ensure their trains are not blocking crossings when they have reached their hour allotments.
Read more...
Congressman Serrano Votes Against Anti-Immigrant Bills
Jose E. Serrano (D-NY, 15th)
June 29, 2017
“These bills are just two more pieces of President Trump’s anti-immigrant mass deportation agenda. The reality is that these bills, if they become law, will actually undermine local law enforcement and our national security. By requiring cities and states to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement activities or otherwise lose federal funding for important law enforcement and homeland security programs, H.R. 3003 coerces local authorities to become an immigration enforcement arm of the federal government. That bill also greatly expands the federal government’s capacity to detain immigrants indefinitely during removal proceedings. H.R. 3004 would broadly attempt to further criminalize and stigmatize all undocumented immigrants, even allowing for the prosecution of someone who is seeking asylum. By expanding federal authorities reach and prohibiting policies to build trust, local immigrant residents will be less likely to cooperate with the authorities, making our communities less safe. These bills demonize immigrants and undermine public safety. That is why I opposed them in the House, and ask that my colleagues in the Senate do the same.”
Read more...
Sessions Supports Bills to Protect American Families
Pete Sessions (R-TX, 32nd)
June 29, 2017
"I proudly joined my colleagues in the House in passing two important measures that will roll back lawless sanctuary policies across the nation by enhancing penalties for deported felons and ensure local officials cooperate and coordinate with federal officials. It is time that we stop putting politics above the safety and security of American families and start upholding our nation’s rule of law."
Read more...
Smith Votes to Strengthen Immigration Law
Rep. Sewell Sponsors Bill to Improve Medicare Advantage for Chronically Ill Seniors
Terri A. Sewell (D-AL, 7th)
June 29, 2017
“Many benefits necessary to improving health outcomes and quality of life for our seniors affected by chronic illness are not traditionally covered by Medicare Advantage,” said Congresswoman Sewell. “For the 363,000 Alabamians enrolled in Medicare Advantage who suffer from one or more chronic illnesses, our bipartisan bill will enable better care coordination so they can access the benefits that meet their needs, including transportation services, nutrition programs, in-home support services, and more. Protecting our seniors’ health should not be a partisan issue, and I’m proud to have worked across the aisle to introduce bipartisan legislation to help seniors living with chronic conditions, like so many in Alabama.”
Read more...
Shea-Porter Seeks to Stop Employers from GPS Tracking Off-Duty Workers
Carol Shea Porter (D NH, 1st)
June 29, 2017
The so-called ‘Employee Privacy and Protection Act’ was one of three anti-worker bills considered during today’s markup, that would further tilt the playing field against workers seeking to bargain for better wages and working conditions. Since Republicans took control of the House in 2011, they have convened 28 hearings and markups in the Committee on Education and the Workforce aimed at undermining workers’ rights to bargain for a better life, replacing the once bipartisan recognition of the central role of workers in the American economy and democracy with relentless partisan attacks.
Read more...
Sinema, Budd Introduce Legislation to Combat Terrorist Financing
Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ, 9th)
June 29, 2017
“Terrorist organizations pose a serious threat to our national security, and it is critical that we cut off the funding that supports these groups,” said Congresswoman Sinema. “I regularly hear from Arizonans who are concerned about the safety of their families and fellow Americans. This legislation is a commonsense solution that ensures the United States denies funding to terrorists and protects America and our allies.”
Read more...
Smith, Pelosi Resolution to Help Human Rights Giant Liu Xiaobo Passes House
Chris Smith (R-NJ, 4th)
June 29, 2017
The resolution, introduced by Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), co-Chairman of the Congressional Executive Commission on China (CECC), and Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, also urges the Administration to assist in gaining Liu Xiaobo and his wife humanitarian transfer so that they can get treatments in the United States if they desire. Liu Xia has been detained under “house arrest” since 2010 and has been hospitalized for a heart condition.
Read more...
Austin Scott (R-GA, 8th)
June 29, 2017
“For too many years, a lack of immigration enforcement and the spread of ‘sanctuary cities’ has failed the America people and cost innocent lives,” said Rep. Scott. “I am proud to stand with my colleagues today in passing legislation that not only strengthens our immigration policies by cracking down on ‘sanctuary cities’, but also enhances deterrents for criminal aliens who seek to reenter the United States and those states and cities who ignore our immigration laws.”
Read more...
Congressman Sensenbrenner Reintroduces MOTION Act in the House of Representatives
James F. Sensenbrenner (R-WI, 5th)
June 29, 2017
The MOTION Act would allow railroad employees to remain on duty and continue working in excess of federal hours of service limits to ensure their trains are not blocking crossings when they have reached their hour allotments.
Read more...
Congressman Serrano Votes Against Anti-Immigrant Bills
Jose E. Serrano (D-NY, 15th)
June 29, 2017
“These bills are just two more pieces of President Trump’s anti-immigrant mass deportation agenda. The reality is that these bills, if they become law, will actually undermine local law enforcement and our national security. By requiring cities and states to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement activities or otherwise lose federal funding for important law enforcement and homeland security programs, H.R. 3003 coerces local authorities to become an immigration enforcement arm of the federal government. That bill also greatly expands the federal government’s capacity to detain immigrants indefinitely during removal proceedings. H.R. 3004 would broadly attempt to further criminalize and stigmatize all undocumented immigrants, even allowing for the prosecution of someone who is seeking asylum. By expanding federal authorities reach and prohibiting policies to build trust, local immigrant residents will be less likely to cooperate with the authorities, making our communities less safe. These bills demonize immigrants and undermine public safety. That is why I opposed them in the House, and ask that my colleagues in the Senate do the same.”
Read more...
Sessions Supports Bills to Protect American Families
Pete Sessions (R-TX, 32nd)
June 29, 2017
"I proudly joined my colleagues in the House in passing two important measures that will roll back lawless sanctuary policies across the nation by enhancing penalties for deported felons and ensure local officials cooperate and coordinate with federal officials. It is time that we stop putting politics above the safety and security of American families and start upholding our nation’s rule of law."
Read more...
Smith Votes to Strengthen Immigration Law
Rep. Sewell Sponsors Bill to Improve Medicare Advantage for Chronically Ill Seniors
Terri A. Sewell (D-AL, 7th)
June 29, 2017
“Many benefits necessary to improving health outcomes and quality of life for our seniors affected by chronic illness are not traditionally covered by Medicare Advantage,” said Congresswoman Sewell. “For the 363,000 Alabamians enrolled in Medicare Advantage who suffer from one or more chronic illnesses, our bipartisan bill will enable better care coordination so they can access the benefits that meet their needs, including transportation services, nutrition programs, in-home support services, and more. Protecting our seniors’ health should not be a partisan issue, and I’m proud to have worked across the aisle to introduce bipartisan legislation to help seniors living with chronic conditions, like so many in Alabama.”
Read more...
Shea-Porter Seeks to Stop Employers from GPS Tracking Off-Duty Workers
Carol Shea Porter (D NH, 1st)
June 29, 2017
The so-called ‘Employee Privacy and Protection Act’ was one of three anti-worker bills considered during today’s markup, that would further tilt the playing field against workers seeking to bargain for better wages and working conditions. Since Republicans took control of the House in 2011, they have convened 28 hearings and markups in the Committee on Education and the Workforce aimed at undermining workers’ rights to bargain for a better life, replacing the once bipartisan recognition of the central role of workers in the American economy and democracy with relentless partisan attacks.
Read more...
Sinema, Budd Introduce Legislation to Combat Terrorist Financing
Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ, 9th)
June 29, 2017
“Terrorist organizations pose a serious threat to our national security, and it is critical that we cut off the funding that supports these groups,” said Congresswoman Sinema. “I regularly hear from Arizonans who are concerned about the safety of their families and fellow Americans. This legislation is a commonsense solution that ensures the United States denies funding to terrorists and protects America and our allies.”
Read more...
Smith, Pelosi Resolution to Help Human Rights Giant Liu Xiaobo Passes House
Chris Smith (R-NJ, 4th)
June 29, 2017
The resolution, introduced by Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), co-Chairman of the Congressional Executive Commission on China (CECC), and Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, also urges the Administration to assist in gaining Liu Xiaobo and his wife humanitarian transfer so that they can get treatments in the United States if they desire. Liu Xia has been detained under “house arrest” since 2010 and has been hospitalized for a heart condition.
Read more...
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Pro-Life, Death Penalty, Healthcare Bill, 10 Commandments, Voter Fraud, Super Volcano, Suicide, Gay Adoption
Ohio Right to Life's Dismemberment Abortion Ban clears Ohio Senate
Ohio Right to Life
June 28, 2017
Ohio Right to Life's Dismemberment Abortion Ban (S.B. 145) was overwhelmingly approved by the Ohio Senate, 24-9. The legislation, which is sponsored by Senators Matt Huffman (R-Lima) and Steve Wilson (R-Maineville), is being heralded by Ohio Right to Life as the next step in the national strategy to end abortion. The passage of the bill coincides with the 50th anniversary of Ohio Right to Life's founding. In more recent history, Ohio Right to Life has successfully advocated for the enactment of 18 pro-life laws. Since 2010, abortions have dropped 25 percent in Ohio, falling to a 39-year record-low in 2015.
Read more...
Florida Supreme Court hears death penalty-prosecutor dispute
Associated Press
June 28, 2017
The case involves whether the Republican governor violated the state constitution by taking 24 murder cases out of the hands of Orlando-area State Attorney Aramis Ayala, who has said capital punishment is costly and drags on for years
Read more...
Republican lawmakers pressure GOP leaders to drop tax cuts in healthcare bill
Washington Examiner
June 28, 2017
The lawmakers include Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, who says he opposes the cuts in their current form because they come at the expense of low-income individuals, who would be provided less federal money to buy health insurance than under Obamacare.
Read more...
Destruction of Arkansas' Ten Commandments monument places spotlight on separation of church and state
LA Times
June 28, 2017
Authorities in Oklahoma on Wednesday afternoon identified Reed as the man arrested in 2014 for ramming his car into a similar Ten Commandments monument outside the state Capitol in Oklahoma City.
Read more...
Another Democrat Tosses in Prison for Election Fraud
Constitution
June 28, 2016
Spieles admitted to filing the registering the dead folks in August 2016 while making $350-a-week working for a Democratic-affiliated group called Harrisonburg Votes. Apparently he was having problems meeting his quota.
Read more...
Scientists Fear "Supervolcano" Eruption As Earthquake Swarm Near Yellowstone Soars To 800
ZeroHedge
June 28, 2017
More than 800 earthquakes have now been recorded at the Yellowstone Caldera, a long-dormant supervolcano located in Yellowstone National Park, over the last two weeks - an ominous sign that a potentially catastrophic eruption could be brewing. However, despite earthquakes occurring at a frequency unseen during any period in the past five years, the US Geological Survey says the risk level remains in the “green,” unchanged from its normal levels, according to Newsweek.
Read more...
2 California families claim '13 Reasons Why' triggered teens' suicides
Yahoo News
June 28, 2017
Both teenagers died by suicide in April. Their families say Bella and Priscilla both watched “13 Reasons Why,” the controversial Netflix show about suicide, just days before taking their own lives.
Read more...
Justice Gorsuch Wastes No Time Stirring Up Trouble
Bloomberg View
June 27, 2017
It’s customary for new Supreme Court justices to ease into the job. Not so Justice Neil Gorsuch, who has flung himself into his truncated first term like a whirlwind. Now that the dust has settled, it’s clear that Gorsuch wants to establish himself as the new leader of the court’s conservative wing -- fast. No opinion is a better indicator than his dissent from the court’s summary reversal in the Arkansas gay adoption case, Pavan v. Smith.
Read more...
Ohio Right to Life
June 28, 2017
Ohio Right to Life's Dismemberment Abortion Ban (S.B. 145) was overwhelmingly approved by the Ohio Senate, 24-9. The legislation, which is sponsored by Senators Matt Huffman (R-Lima) and Steve Wilson (R-Maineville), is being heralded by Ohio Right to Life as the next step in the national strategy to end abortion. The passage of the bill coincides with the 50th anniversary of Ohio Right to Life's founding. In more recent history, Ohio Right to Life has successfully advocated for the enactment of 18 pro-life laws. Since 2010, abortions have dropped 25 percent in Ohio, falling to a 39-year record-low in 2015.
Read more...
Florida Supreme Court hears death penalty-prosecutor dispute
Associated Press
June 28, 2017
The case involves whether the Republican governor violated the state constitution by taking 24 murder cases out of the hands of Orlando-area State Attorney Aramis Ayala, who has said capital punishment is costly and drags on for years
Read more...
Republican lawmakers pressure GOP leaders to drop tax cuts in healthcare bill
Washington Examiner
June 28, 2017
The lawmakers include Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, who says he opposes the cuts in their current form because they come at the expense of low-income individuals, who would be provided less federal money to buy health insurance than under Obamacare.
Read more...
Destruction of Arkansas' Ten Commandments monument places spotlight on separation of church and state
LA Times
June 28, 2017
Authorities in Oklahoma on Wednesday afternoon identified Reed as the man arrested in 2014 for ramming his car into a similar Ten Commandments monument outside the state Capitol in Oklahoma City.
Read more...
Another Democrat Tosses in Prison for Election Fraud
Constitution
June 28, 2016
Spieles admitted to filing the registering the dead folks in August 2016 while making $350-a-week working for a Democratic-affiliated group called Harrisonburg Votes. Apparently he was having problems meeting his quota.
Read more...
Scientists Fear "Supervolcano" Eruption As Earthquake Swarm Near Yellowstone Soars To 800
ZeroHedge
June 28, 2017
More than 800 earthquakes have now been recorded at the Yellowstone Caldera, a long-dormant supervolcano located in Yellowstone National Park, over the last two weeks - an ominous sign that a potentially catastrophic eruption could be brewing. However, despite earthquakes occurring at a frequency unseen during any period in the past five years, the US Geological Survey says the risk level remains in the “green,” unchanged from its normal levels, according to Newsweek.
Read more...
2 California families claim '13 Reasons Why' triggered teens' suicides
Yahoo News
June 28, 2017
Both teenagers died by suicide in April. Their families say Bella and Priscilla both watched “13 Reasons Why,” the controversial Netflix show about suicide, just days before taking their own lives.
Read more...
Justice Gorsuch Wastes No Time Stirring Up Trouble
Bloomberg View
June 27, 2017
It’s customary for new Supreme Court justices to ease into the job. Not so Justice Neil Gorsuch, who has flung himself into his truncated first term like a whirlwind. Now that the dust has settled, it’s clear that Gorsuch wants to establish himself as the new leader of the court’s conservative wing -- fast. No opinion is a better indicator than his dissent from the court’s summary reversal in the Arkansas gay adoption case, Pavan v. Smith.
Read more...
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Women Veterans, FAA, National Park, NAFTA, LGBT, Prescriptions, Trees, WOTUS
Rush Cosponsors the Deborah Sampson Act to Support Women Veterans
Bobby L. Rush (D-IL, 1st)
June 28, 2017
The Deborah Sampson Act aims to fill critical gaps in VA care for women vets, including funding peer-to-peer assistance and improve legal and support services, data tracking and reporting and newborn medical care in addition to changing the VA’s non-inclusive motto.
Read more...
Congressman Russell Introduces Bill to Prevent Closure of FAA Aircraft Registry Office
Steve Russell (R-OK, 5th)
June 27, 2017
Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5) introduced H.R. 3062, a bill which would ensure that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aircraft Registry Office in Oklahoma City remains open in the event of a government shutdown. The government shutdown in 2013 resulted in an unprecedented closure of the FAA Aircraft Registry Office in Oklahoma City and a furlough of its employees. This closure had a severe impact on aviation industries and national security efforts. This must not happen again in the event of another government shutdown. Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK) introduced a companion bill, S. 1432, in the Senate.
Read more...
Representative Sanford, Senator Scott Introduce Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie National Park Act
Mark Sanford (R-SC, 1st)
June 28, 2017
“These two sites are profoundly important to our nation and represent an essential part of South Carolina’s role in securing the personal freedoms we all enjoy today,” said Rep. Sanford. “Establishing the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Park will honor those who lived, worked, and died there as well as help to preserve these sites that remain such an important part of our history.”
Read more...
Cornyn Urges USTR to Strengthen Agricultural Trade in NAFTA Negotiations
Senator John Cornyn- (R - TX)
June 28, 2017
“As Senators representing states with significant agricultural exports, we appreciate the careful approach the administration is taking to strengthen the NAFTA agreement, while ensuring that no changes are made that could result in harm to U.S. agriculture,” Sen. Cornyn and others wrote. “We look forward to working with you throughout the congressional consultation process to ensure that NAFTA continues its substantial economic contributions to U.S. farmers and ranchers and to the growth of our agricultural economy.”
Read more...
CORTEZ MASTO COSPONSORS SENATE’S FIRST EVER RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING JUNE AS (LGBT) PRIDE MONTH
Senator Cathrine Cortez Masto - (D - NV)
June 28, 2017
“Diversity is what makes us strong and what defines us as a nation,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Historically, many communities have struggled in the U.S. to gain the equal rights and protections that are guaranteed to them in the Constitution—the LGBTQ community being one of them. I am proud to cosponsor this resolution on the 48th anniversary of the Stonewall riots and I am committed to fighting for equality for all marginalized communities in the U.S. Senate.”
Read more...
FDA Announces Action Plan to Lower Cost of Prescription Drugs that Mirrors Senators Cotton, Collins, McCaskill, and Franken Bipartisan Bill
Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR)
June 28, 2017
"The steady rise in prescription drug costs over the last several years has left many Arkansans wondering just how much more they can take. And as health-care premiums rise under Obamacare, there's now even less room in family budgets to spend more on prescription drugs," said Senator Cotton. "Regrettably, the current FDA backlog of new generic-drug applications awaiting approval is only making this problem worse. Expediting the approval process for both the first and the second generic and requiring the FDA to make a decision in a timely fashion will increase competition in the prescription-drug market and help lower costs for Arkansas families."
Read more...
Sen. Cruz: WOTUS Withdrawal Is a Welcome Change For Texas Families, Farmers and Ranchers
Senator Ted Cruz- (R - TX)
June 28, 2017
"The announcement to withdraw the Waters of the United States rule is a welcome change for hardworking families, farmers, and ranchers in Texas,” Sen. Cruz said. “The Obama administration's WOTUS rule massively expanded the scope of federal authority over land and waterways in the United States, making it harder for Texans to provide for their families. This withdrawal proposal reflects what Americans overwhelmingly believe: that we can have both clean water and regulations that don’t stifle economic growth and job creation. I applaud Administrator Pruitt for his leadership on this issue, and look forward to working with my colleagues to further roll back harmful regulations.”
Read more...
Governor Abbott Applauds Sen. Hall, Rep. Workman’s Intention To Author Legislation Preventing Cities From Regulating Trees On Private Land
Texas Governor
June 28, 2017
In the upcoming special legislative session, Sen. Bob Hall and Rep. Paul Workman will author legislation to prevent cities from regulating what property owners do with trees on private land. This is one of 20 items that Governor Abbott previously announced will be added to the special session agenda. Governor Abbott thanked Sen. Hall and Rep. Workman for fighting on behalf of property owners in Texas.
Read more...
*The Health Coalition on Liability and Access today applauded the House of Representatives for prioritizing patient access to care by passing H.R. 1215, the Protecting Access to Care Act by a vote of 218-210.
Bobby L. Rush (D-IL, 1st)
June 28, 2017
The Deborah Sampson Act aims to fill critical gaps in VA care for women vets, including funding peer-to-peer assistance and improve legal and support services, data tracking and reporting and newborn medical care in addition to changing the VA’s non-inclusive motto.
Read more...
Congressman Russell Introduces Bill to Prevent Closure of FAA Aircraft Registry Office
Steve Russell (R-OK, 5th)
June 27, 2017
Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5) introduced H.R. 3062, a bill which would ensure that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aircraft Registry Office in Oklahoma City remains open in the event of a government shutdown. The government shutdown in 2013 resulted in an unprecedented closure of the FAA Aircraft Registry Office in Oklahoma City and a furlough of its employees. This closure had a severe impact on aviation industries and national security efforts. This must not happen again in the event of another government shutdown. Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK) introduced a companion bill, S. 1432, in the Senate.
Read more...
Representative Sanford, Senator Scott Introduce Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie National Park Act
Mark Sanford (R-SC, 1st)
June 28, 2017
“These two sites are profoundly important to our nation and represent an essential part of South Carolina’s role in securing the personal freedoms we all enjoy today,” said Rep. Sanford. “Establishing the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Park will honor those who lived, worked, and died there as well as help to preserve these sites that remain such an important part of our history.”
Read more...
Cornyn Urges USTR to Strengthen Agricultural Trade in NAFTA Negotiations
Senator John Cornyn- (R - TX)
June 28, 2017
“As Senators representing states with significant agricultural exports, we appreciate the careful approach the administration is taking to strengthen the NAFTA agreement, while ensuring that no changes are made that could result in harm to U.S. agriculture,” Sen. Cornyn and others wrote. “We look forward to working with you throughout the congressional consultation process to ensure that NAFTA continues its substantial economic contributions to U.S. farmers and ranchers and to the growth of our agricultural economy.”
Read more...
CORTEZ MASTO COSPONSORS SENATE’S FIRST EVER RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING JUNE AS (LGBT) PRIDE MONTH
Senator Cathrine Cortez Masto - (D - NV)
June 28, 2017
“Diversity is what makes us strong and what defines us as a nation,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Historically, many communities have struggled in the U.S. to gain the equal rights and protections that are guaranteed to them in the Constitution—the LGBTQ community being one of them. I am proud to cosponsor this resolution on the 48th anniversary of the Stonewall riots and I am committed to fighting for equality for all marginalized communities in the U.S. Senate.”
Read more...
FDA Announces Action Plan to Lower Cost of Prescription Drugs that Mirrors Senators Cotton, Collins, McCaskill, and Franken Bipartisan Bill
Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR)
June 28, 2017
"The steady rise in prescription drug costs over the last several years has left many Arkansans wondering just how much more they can take. And as health-care premiums rise under Obamacare, there's now even less room in family budgets to spend more on prescription drugs," said Senator Cotton. "Regrettably, the current FDA backlog of new generic-drug applications awaiting approval is only making this problem worse. Expediting the approval process for both the first and the second generic and requiring the FDA to make a decision in a timely fashion will increase competition in the prescription-drug market and help lower costs for Arkansas families."
Read more...
Sen. Cruz: WOTUS Withdrawal Is a Welcome Change For Texas Families, Farmers and Ranchers
Senator Ted Cruz- (R - TX)
June 28, 2017
"The announcement to withdraw the Waters of the United States rule is a welcome change for hardworking families, farmers, and ranchers in Texas,” Sen. Cruz said. “The Obama administration's WOTUS rule massively expanded the scope of federal authority over land and waterways in the United States, making it harder for Texans to provide for their families. This withdrawal proposal reflects what Americans overwhelmingly believe: that we can have both clean water and regulations that don’t stifle economic growth and job creation. I applaud Administrator Pruitt for his leadership on this issue, and look forward to working with my colleagues to further roll back harmful regulations.”
Read more...
Governor Abbott Applauds Sen. Hall, Rep. Workman’s Intention To Author Legislation Preventing Cities From Regulating Trees On Private Land
Texas Governor
June 28, 2017
In the upcoming special legislative session, Sen. Bob Hall and Rep. Paul Workman will author legislation to prevent cities from regulating what property owners do with trees on private land. This is one of 20 items that Governor Abbott previously announced will be added to the special session agenda. Governor Abbott thanked Sen. Hall and Rep. Workman for fighting on behalf of property owners in Texas.
Read more...
*The Health Coalition on Liability and Access today applauded the House of Representatives for prioritizing patient access to care by passing H.R. 1215, the Protecting Access to Care Act by a vote of 218-210.
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...
Saturday, June 24, 2017
Trump’s putdown of wind energy whips up a backlash in Iowa (And more...)
Trump’s putdown of wind energy whips up a backlash in Iowa
Council Bluffs Nonpareil
June 22, 2017
President Trump’s putdown of wind energy at his Iowa rally was denounced Thursday across the state, which takes pride in its position as a national leader in wind generation.
Read more...
Total solar eclipse 1st in 99 years to sweep width of US
Creston:News Advertiser
June 23, 2017
Total solar eclipses occur every year or two or three, often in the middle of nowhere like the South Pacific or Antarctic. What makes this one so special — at least for Americans — is that it will cut diagonally across the entire United States.
Read more...
Nursing home workers still posting vulgar photos of residents on Snapchat
Des Moines:Register
June 23, 2017
Six incidents were in Iowa, which has put a greater focus on identifying such cases. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, has called upon Snapchat and other social media companies to do more to stop the problem.
Read more...
Pipeline court case continues
Ft. Dodge:Messenger
June 23, 2017
The Sierra Club on June 15 filed a motion to revoke Dakota Access’s permit in Iowa, in light of a federal judge’s ruling that the Army Corps of Engineers didn’t adequately consider some matters important to the Standing Rock Sioux when issuing the national permit.
Read more...
Statement on Flood Insurance Reform Bills
Alex Mooney (R-WV, 2nd)
June 23, 2017
The 21st Century Flood Reform Act embraces free market reforms that will allow the private sector to give consumers real insurance choices and will get the program back on sound financial footing.
Read more...
Neal Statement on Senate GOP Health Care Bill
Richard E. Neal (D-MA, 1st)
June 22, 2017
“Republican Senators have taken an already ‘mean’ bill and made it even meaner. Despite seven years of promises, the Senate Republicans’ health care plan would not lower costs, would not provide health and financial security to working families, and would not help solve ongoing public health crises, like the opioid epidemic. This heartless bill would instead shift more of the financial burden of health care onto the backs of middle class families, while at the same time dramatically slash important programs, like Medicare and Medicaid, that seniors and working people depend upon. By crafting this partisan plan in secrecy, far from the view of the American public, and presenting it today without so much as a single public hearing, it’s clear that Senate Republicans learned nothing from the ‘go-it-alone’ strategy that Republicans used in the House. It’s disheartening that Senate Republicans didn’t seize this opportunity to sit down with Democrats, their own colleagues and, most importantly, their constituents to engage in good faith discussions on ways to further improve our health care system in a manner that continues to bring down costs, cover more people and expand important consumer protections.”
Read more...
Noem: USDA's Opening of CRP Acres Gives Ranchers Needed Options
Kristi Noem (R-South Dakota)
June 23, 2017
Rep. Kristi Noem issued the following statement after the USDA announced it would open South Dakota CRP acres for grazing in areas categorized as D2 (severe drought) or D3 (extreme drought) until September 30, 2017. The announcement came after a personal request from Noem to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to grant additional flexibility.
Read more...
Nunes Statement on Passage of Healthcare Bill
REP. O’HALLERAN AND 22 ARMED SERVICES DEMOCRATS INTRODUCE BILL TO BOOST UNITY AND DETERRENCE AGAINST RUSSIAN AGGRESSION
Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ, 1st)
June 23, 2017
“There can be no mistake, Russia’s blatant disregard for international agreements and treaties must be countered with strength on the international stage,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “I am proud to support legislation that strengthens our commitment to the collective defense of our allies. We must take action to end to this encroaching aggression and prevent future attempts to weaken our democracy, or the democratic process in countries around the world.”
Read more...
President Signs Blunt-Backed Bill to Increase Accountability at the VA
Senator Roy Blunt - (R - MO)
June 23, 2017
U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.) released the following statement after President Trump signed into law the Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. The bipartisan legislation, which Blunt cosponsored, reforms the Department of Veterans Affairs by making it easier for the secretary to hold employees accountable for misconduct or poor performance, and ensuring appropriate due process protections for whistleblowers.
Read more...
Boozman Applauds Signing of VA Reforms into Law
Roe Statement on President Signing VA Accountability Bill into Law
Amid Reports that Trump Will Break Promise to Get Tough on Drug Pricing, Booker, Franken, Lawmakers Urge Trump to Act on Solutions that Bring Down Prescription Drug Costs
Senator Cory A. Booker (D-NJ)
June 23, 2017
With news reports indicating the White House is on the verge of issuing an executive order devoid of policies that would meaningfully reduce prescription drug prices, breaking yet another key promise to Americans, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) and other Senate and House Democrats to urge President Donald Trump to act on solutions that truly reduce the rising cost of prescription drugs.
Read more...
Brown Vows to Keep Up Bipartisan Efforts to Protect Great Lakes Following Asian Carp Sighting
Senator Sherrod Brown- (D - OH)
June 23, 2017
“It’s clear: now is not the time to take away the tools that help us protect our Great Lakes,” said Brown. “Between this carp sighting and news that the Lake’s health is declining, it is a bad week for our Great Lakes. We’ve got to double down on our efforts to protect Lake Erie and the jobs it supports. That means staying vigilant and standing strong in bipartisan opposition to the elimination of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative proposed by the Administration.”
Read more...
Senate Intel Committee to Hold Open Hearing Next Week on Russian Intervention in European Elections
Senator Richard Burr - (R - NC)
June 23, 2017
Senator Richard Burr (R-NC), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, announced that the Committee will hold an open hearing on June 28, 2017 to examine Russia’s interference in recent and future European elections. The witnesses will address Russian activities in the French and Montenegrin elections and look forward to Germany’s fall election. This will be the latest in a series of open hearings to provide for the American people further context and understanding of Russian efforts to undermine democratic institutions at home and abroad.
Read more...
SBC Examines How to Bring Broadband to Rural America
House Committee on Small Business
June 22, 2017
Members of the House Small Business Subcommittee on Agriculture, Energy, and Trade heard from a group of experts in the first of a series of hearings addressing the rural broadband deployment efforts small telecommunications companies are undergoing in rural America. Witnesses also discussed the potential for policy changes at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and what the FCC has done to help or hinder broadband deployment.
Read more...
Judicial Watch Asks Trump Administration to End Congressional Obamacare Exemption
Judicial Watch
June 23, 2017
The ACA requires states to create at least two exchanges: a small business exchange (referred to as “SHOP” in the ACA) and an individual exchange. It also requires certain members of Congress and congressional employees to purchase insurance on an exchange created either by their state of residence (or by the District, if they are a D.C. resident) or by the federal government, if their state of residence did not establish an exchange. 42 U.S.C. § 18032(d)(3)(D)(i). Because the ACA limits the purchase of insurance on a small business exchange to employees of small businesses – and Congress is not a small business – the ACA unequivocally requires that certain members of Congress and congressional employees purchase insurance on an individual exchange created either by their state of residence (or by the District, if they are a D.C. resident) or by the federal government for that state.
Read more...
Council Bluffs Nonpareil
June 22, 2017
President Trump’s putdown of wind energy at his Iowa rally was denounced Thursday across the state, which takes pride in its position as a national leader in wind generation.
Read more...
Total solar eclipse 1st in 99 years to sweep width of US
Creston:News Advertiser
June 23, 2017
Total solar eclipses occur every year or two or three, often in the middle of nowhere like the South Pacific or Antarctic. What makes this one so special — at least for Americans — is that it will cut diagonally across the entire United States.
Read more...
Nursing home workers still posting vulgar photos of residents on Snapchat
Des Moines:Register
June 23, 2017
Six incidents were in Iowa, which has put a greater focus on identifying such cases. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, has called upon Snapchat and other social media companies to do more to stop the problem.
Read more...
Pipeline court case continues
Ft. Dodge:Messenger
June 23, 2017
The Sierra Club on June 15 filed a motion to revoke Dakota Access’s permit in Iowa, in light of a federal judge’s ruling that the Army Corps of Engineers didn’t adequately consider some matters important to the Standing Rock Sioux when issuing the national permit.
Read more...
Statement on Flood Insurance Reform Bills
Alex Mooney (R-WV, 2nd)
June 23, 2017
The 21st Century Flood Reform Act embraces free market reforms that will allow the private sector to give consumers real insurance choices and will get the program back on sound financial footing.
Read more...
Neal Statement on Senate GOP Health Care Bill
Richard E. Neal (D-MA, 1st)
June 22, 2017
“Republican Senators have taken an already ‘mean’ bill and made it even meaner. Despite seven years of promises, the Senate Republicans’ health care plan would not lower costs, would not provide health and financial security to working families, and would not help solve ongoing public health crises, like the opioid epidemic. This heartless bill would instead shift more of the financial burden of health care onto the backs of middle class families, while at the same time dramatically slash important programs, like Medicare and Medicaid, that seniors and working people depend upon. By crafting this partisan plan in secrecy, far from the view of the American public, and presenting it today without so much as a single public hearing, it’s clear that Senate Republicans learned nothing from the ‘go-it-alone’ strategy that Republicans used in the House. It’s disheartening that Senate Republicans didn’t seize this opportunity to sit down with Democrats, their own colleagues and, most importantly, their constituents to engage in good faith discussions on ways to further improve our health care system in a manner that continues to bring down costs, cover more people and expand important consumer protections.”
Read more...
Noem: USDA's Opening of CRP Acres Gives Ranchers Needed Options
Kristi Noem (R-South Dakota)
June 23, 2017
Rep. Kristi Noem issued the following statement after the USDA announced it would open South Dakota CRP acres for grazing in areas categorized as D2 (severe drought) or D3 (extreme drought) until September 30, 2017. The announcement came after a personal request from Noem to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to grant additional flexibility.
Read more...
Nunes Statement on Passage of Healthcare Bill
REP. O’HALLERAN AND 22 ARMED SERVICES DEMOCRATS INTRODUCE BILL TO BOOST UNITY AND DETERRENCE AGAINST RUSSIAN AGGRESSION
Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ, 1st)
June 23, 2017
“There can be no mistake, Russia’s blatant disregard for international agreements and treaties must be countered with strength on the international stage,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “I am proud to support legislation that strengthens our commitment to the collective defense of our allies. We must take action to end to this encroaching aggression and prevent future attempts to weaken our democracy, or the democratic process in countries around the world.”
Read more...
President Signs Blunt-Backed Bill to Increase Accountability at the VA
Senator Roy Blunt - (R - MO)
June 23, 2017
U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.) released the following statement after President Trump signed into law the Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. The bipartisan legislation, which Blunt cosponsored, reforms the Department of Veterans Affairs by making it easier for the secretary to hold employees accountable for misconduct or poor performance, and ensuring appropriate due process protections for whistleblowers.
Read more...
Boozman Applauds Signing of VA Reforms into Law
Roe Statement on President Signing VA Accountability Bill into Law
Amid Reports that Trump Will Break Promise to Get Tough on Drug Pricing, Booker, Franken, Lawmakers Urge Trump to Act on Solutions that Bring Down Prescription Drug Costs
Senator Cory A. Booker (D-NJ)
June 23, 2017
With news reports indicating the White House is on the verge of issuing an executive order devoid of policies that would meaningfully reduce prescription drug prices, breaking yet another key promise to Americans, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) and other Senate and House Democrats to urge President Donald Trump to act on solutions that truly reduce the rising cost of prescription drugs.
Read more...
Brown Vows to Keep Up Bipartisan Efforts to Protect Great Lakes Following Asian Carp Sighting
Senator Sherrod Brown- (D - OH)
June 23, 2017
“It’s clear: now is not the time to take away the tools that help us protect our Great Lakes,” said Brown. “Between this carp sighting and news that the Lake’s health is declining, it is a bad week for our Great Lakes. We’ve got to double down on our efforts to protect Lake Erie and the jobs it supports. That means staying vigilant and standing strong in bipartisan opposition to the elimination of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative proposed by the Administration.”
Read more...
Senate Intel Committee to Hold Open Hearing Next Week on Russian Intervention in European Elections
Senator Richard Burr - (R - NC)
June 23, 2017
Senator Richard Burr (R-NC), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, announced that the Committee will hold an open hearing on June 28, 2017 to examine Russia’s interference in recent and future European elections. The witnesses will address Russian activities in the French and Montenegrin elections and look forward to Germany’s fall election. This will be the latest in a series of open hearings to provide for the American people further context and understanding of Russian efforts to undermine democratic institutions at home and abroad.
Read more...
SBC Examines How to Bring Broadband to Rural America
House Committee on Small Business
June 22, 2017
Members of the House Small Business Subcommittee on Agriculture, Energy, and Trade heard from a group of experts in the first of a series of hearings addressing the rural broadband deployment efforts small telecommunications companies are undergoing in rural America. Witnesses also discussed the potential for policy changes at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and what the FCC has done to help or hinder broadband deployment.
Read more...
Judicial Watch Asks Trump Administration to End Congressional Obamacare Exemption
Judicial Watch
June 23, 2017
The ACA requires states to create at least two exchanges: a small business exchange (referred to as “SHOP” in the ACA) and an individual exchange. It also requires certain members of Congress and congressional employees to purchase insurance on an exchange created either by their state of residence (or by the District, if they are a D.C. resident) or by the federal government, if their state of residence did not establish an exchange. 42 U.S.C. § 18032(d)(3)(D)(i). Because the ACA limits the purchase of insurance on a small business exchange to employees of small businesses – and Congress is not a small business – the ACA unequivocally requires that certain members of Congress and congressional employees purchase insurance on an individual exchange created either by their state of residence (or by the District, if they are a D.C. resident) or by the federal government for that state.
Read more...
Friday, June 23, 2017
President Signs New VA Accountability Law (and more...)
5th Circuit allows Mississippi anti-coercion law to go into effect
Alliance Defending Freedom
June 22, 2017
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit ruled unanimously on Thursday that those who filed suit to stop a state law protecting Mississippians against government discrimination haven’t shown they have been or will be harmed by the law. The court therefore vacated the injunction that had been blocking the Protecting Freedom of Conscience from Government Discrimination Act (HB 1523) from going into effect.
Read more...
Patrick Pizzella a strong conservative at Deputy Secretary of Labor
Americans for Limited Government
June 22, 2017
Americans for Limited Government President Rick Manning today issued the following statement praising President Donald Trump for nominating Patrick Pizzella to be Deputy Secretary of Labor
Read more...
AUL says Replacing Obamacare “A Pro-life Necessity,” Urges Senators and the Trump Administration to Invest in Life-Affirming Care
Americans United for Life
June 22, 2017
As analysis of the Senate version of a new healthcare law gets underway, Americans United for Life President and CEO Catherine Glenn Foster called on elected officials to keep their promises to address the anti-life provisions in the current healthcare law and to protect the conscience rights of all Americans who, under Obamacare, face governmental pressure and force when refusing to comply with coercive mandates. “Replacing Obamacare with healthcare that respects both life and the constitutional rights of all Americans is a pro-life necessity,” said Foster. “It is un-American to use the force of law against those whose ethics require that they defend and protect life. Today, I was at the Senate office of Senator Mitch McConnell asking him to redirect scarce tax dollars to real medical services for women because abortion is not healthcare.”
Read more...
U.S. Supreme Court to Settle Major Cellphone Privacy Case
Association of Prosecuting Attorneys
June 14, 2017
Police officers for the first time could be required to obtain warrants to get data on the past locations of criminal suspects based on cellphone use under a major case on privacy rights in the digital age taken up by the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday.
Read more...
CVA STATEMENT ON HISTORIC VA ACCOUNTABILITY LAW
Concerned Veterans for America
June 23, 2017
Today President Trump is expected to sign into law the bipartisan VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017. The bill is a strong piece of accountability legislation that will empower Secretary Shulkin with the ability to quickly fire bad VA employees and protect whistleblowers who speak up about wrongdoing.
Read more...
Senator Alexander on Discussion Draft of Senate Health Care Bill
Senator Lamar Alexander - (R - TN)
June 22, 2017
“To begin with, the draft Senate health care bill makes no change in the law protecting people with pre-existing conditions, no change in Medicare benefits, and increases Medicaid funding— that’s TennCare—at the rate of inflation. Let me repeat: it makes no change in the law protecting people with pre-existing conditions, no change in Medicare benefits, and increases funding for Medicaid—that’s TennCare—at the rate of inflation.”
Read more...
Asian Carp Discovered Near Lake Michigan Days After Senator Baldwin Introduces Legislation Demanding Trump Administration Take the Next Step to Stop the Spread of This Invasive Species
Senator Tammy Baldwin - (D - WI)
June 22, 2017
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a member of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, released a statement after a live eight-pound Asian carp was found only nine miles from Lake Michigan today. This discovery comes just days after Senator Baldwin introduced bipartisan legislation demanding immediate action from the Trump Administration to prevent Asian carp from getting closer to our Great Lakes.
Read more...
Barrasso Statement on Senate Health Care Draft Bill
John Barrasso - (R - WY)
June 22, 2017
“What we are proposing today steers health care sharply away from federal mandates, higher taxes and government control. Instead, our draft bill puts the focus on affordability, access to care with more choices, and safeguards Medicaid for the most vulnerable and needy.
Read more...
Bennet, Bipartisan Group Reintroduce Bill to Expand National Service Opportunities for Youth & Veterans
Senator Michael F. Bennet - (D - CO)
June 22, 2017
"This bipartisan bill will help us maintain our public lands and provide new opportunities for young people and veterans to gain meaningful job training in conservation," Bennet said. "In Colorado, our public lands are an important part of our state's identity and thriving outdoor economy. The legislation will make it easier for Conservation Corps to engage with federal agencies and develop the next generation of leaders to carry on our unique public lands legacy."
Read more...
MATSUI STATEMENT ON SENATE TRUMPCARE BILL
Doris O. Matsui (D-CA, 6th)
June 22, 2017
“Under this legislation, if you are nearing retirement, you would see your costs rise. Seniors and people with disabilities would lose access to nursing home and community-based long term care. And, pregnant women and children would be vulnerable to harmful cuts to their coverage.
Read more...
McEachin Statement on Senate Healthcare Bill
McGovern: Senate GOP’s Trumpcare Bill Takes Healthcare Away from Millions Just to Give Giant Tax Break to the Rich
Bipartisan VA Reform Becomes Law
Kevin McCarthy (R-CA, 23rd)
June 23, 2017
Today, our country takes a significant step to reform the VA with a renewed purpose and ability to serve our veterans. The ultimate goal is nothing less than a transformation of the culture within the VA so that our veterans receive the best care possible. As we know, most VA employees consider it their personal mission to heal and care for those who served us. But that mission is put at risk by the continued corruption, incompetence, and scandal of a few bad employees. We won’t let this continue because we can’t let this continue. The health and well-being of our veterans is too important.
Read more...
MCCOLLUM STATEMENT ON 2017 LGBT PRIDE MONTH
Betty McCollum (D-MN, 4th)
June 23, 2017
“Each June, we celebrate LGBT Pride Month. We honor the contributions of LGBT Americans, we recognize the activism and energy of LGBT leaders in holding the United States to its highest ideals, and we reflect on our ongoing work to forge a more just and inclusive country.
Read more...
McKinley Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Access to Lifesaving Medicine
David McKinley (R-WV, 1st)
June 22, 2017
The Patients Access to Treatments Act (PATA) will give patients with chronic, disabling, and life-threatening conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer, access to innovative drug therapies. By requiring insurance to cover these critical drugs, millions of patients will be able to afford vital life-saving medicine.
Read more...
U.S. REP. MCSALLY INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN BILL TO CONNECT VETERANS TO JOB TRAINING PROGRAMS
Martha McSally (R-AZ, 2nd)
June 22, 2017
U.S. Representative Martha McSally (R-AZ) introduced the bipartisan Veterans’ Entry to Apprenticeship Act. The bill would allow veterans to use their educational benefits to enroll in pre-apprenticeship programs and would provide returning veterans with a smooth transition to the civilian workforce.
Read more...
Meng Reintroduces Legislation to Ban the Sale of Expired Baby Formula
Grace Meng (D-NY, 6th)
June 22, 2017
“It is mind boggling that in 2017 it is legal for stores to sell expired baby formula,” said Meng. “As a parent, I find that reprehensible, and have introduced the Infant Formula Protection Act every term I’ve been in Congress to correct this glaring error in the law. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support my commonsense legislation.”
Read more...
MITCHELL ON THE HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE STRENGTHENING CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION FOR THE 21ST CENTURY ACT
Paul Mitchell (R MI, 10th)
June 22, 2017
“I spent 35 years in workforce education, so I know the economic opportunity and advantages of the right education. Too often students aren’t given the opportunity to choose a career and technical education (CTE) program,” said Representative Mitchell.
Read more...
President Signs New VA Accountability Law
John Moolenaar (R-MI, 4th)
June 23, 2017
“In a time when so much news coverage focuses on division in Washington, as Americans there is still more that unites us than divides us. Republicans, Democrats and President Trump all agree that our veterans deserve the best care. The new law the president signed today will promote accountability in government and help the VA provide our veterans with the care they have earned in service to our country.”
Read more...
Alliance Defending Freedom
June 22, 2017
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit ruled unanimously on Thursday that those who filed suit to stop a state law protecting Mississippians against government discrimination haven’t shown they have been or will be harmed by the law. The court therefore vacated the injunction that had been blocking the Protecting Freedom of Conscience from Government Discrimination Act (HB 1523) from going into effect.
Read more...
Patrick Pizzella a strong conservative at Deputy Secretary of Labor
Americans for Limited Government
June 22, 2017
Americans for Limited Government President Rick Manning today issued the following statement praising President Donald Trump for nominating Patrick Pizzella to be Deputy Secretary of Labor
Read more...
AUL says Replacing Obamacare “A Pro-life Necessity,” Urges Senators and the Trump Administration to Invest in Life-Affirming Care
Americans United for Life
June 22, 2017
As analysis of the Senate version of a new healthcare law gets underway, Americans United for Life President and CEO Catherine Glenn Foster called on elected officials to keep their promises to address the anti-life provisions in the current healthcare law and to protect the conscience rights of all Americans who, under Obamacare, face governmental pressure and force when refusing to comply with coercive mandates. “Replacing Obamacare with healthcare that respects both life and the constitutional rights of all Americans is a pro-life necessity,” said Foster. “It is un-American to use the force of law against those whose ethics require that they defend and protect life. Today, I was at the Senate office of Senator Mitch McConnell asking him to redirect scarce tax dollars to real medical services for women because abortion is not healthcare.”
Read more...
U.S. Supreme Court to Settle Major Cellphone Privacy Case
Association of Prosecuting Attorneys
June 14, 2017
Police officers for the first time could be required to obtain warrants to get data on the past locations of criminal suspects based on cellphone use under a major case on privacy rights in the digital age taken up by the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday.
Read more...
CVA STATEMENT ON HISTORIC VA ACCOUNTABILITY LAW
Concerned Veterans for America
June 23, 2017
Today President Trump is expected to sign into law the bipartisan VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017. The bill is a strong piece of accountability legislation that will empower Secretary Shulkin with the ability to quickly fire bad VA employees and protect whistleblowers who speak up about wrongdoing.
Read more...
Senator Alexander on Discussion Draft of Senate Health Care Bill
Senator Lamar Alexander - (R - TN)
June 22, 2017
“To begin with, the draft Senate health care bill makes no change in the law protecting people with pre-existing conditions, no change in Medicare benefits, and increases Medicaid funding— that’s TennCare—at the rate of inflation. Let me repeat: it makes no change in the law protecting people with pre-existing conditions, no change in Medicare benefits, and increases funding for Medicaid—that’s TennCare—at the rate of inflation.”
Read more...
Asian Carp Discovered Near Lake Michigan Days After Senator Baldwin Introduces Legislation Demanding Trump Administration Take the Next Step to Stop the Spread of This Invasive Species
Senator Tammy Baldwin - (D - WI)
June 22, 2017
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a member of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, released a statement after a live eight-pound Asian carp was found only nine miles from Lake Michigan today. This discovery comes just days after Senator Baldwin introduced bipartisan legislation demanding immediate action from the Trump Administration to prevent Asian carp from getting closer to our Great Lakes.
Read more...
Barrasso Statement on Senate Health Care Draft Bill
John Barrasso - (R - WY)
June 22, 2017
“What we are proposing today steers health care sharply away from federal mandates, higher taxes and government control. Instead, our draft bill puts the focus on affordability, access to care with more choices, and safeguards Medicaid for the most vulnerable and needy.
Read more...
Bennet, Bipartisan Group Reintroduce Bill to Expand National Service Opportunities for Youth & Veterans
Senator Michael F. Bennet - (D - CO)
June 22, 2017
"This bipartisan bill will help us maintain our public lands and provide new opportunities for young people and veterans to gain meaningful job training in conservation," Bennet said. "In Colorado, our public lands are an important part of our state's identity and thriving outdoor economy. The legislation will make it easier for Conservation Corps to engage with federal agencies and develop the next generation of leaders to carry on our unique public lands legacy."
Read more...
MATSUI STATEMENT ON SENATE TRUMPCARE BILL
Doris O. Matsui (D-CA, 6th)
June 22, 2017
“Under this legislation, if you are nearing retirement, you would see your costs rise. Seniors and people with disabilities would lose access to nursing home and community-based long term care. And, pregnant women and children would be vulnerable to harmful cuts to their coverage.
Read more...
McEachin Statement on Senate Healthcare Bill
McGovern: Senate GOP’s Trumpcare Bill Takes Healthcare Away from Millions Just to Give Giant Tax Break to the Rich
Bipartisan VA Reform Becomes Law
Kevin McCarthy (R-CA, 23rd)
June 23, 2017
Today, our country takes a significant step to reform the VA with a renewed purpose and ability to serve our veterans. The ultimate goal is nothing less than a transformation of the culture within the VA so that our veterans receive the best care possible. As we know, most VA employees consider it their personal mission to heal and care for those who served us. But that mission is put at risk by the continued corruption, incompetence, and scandal of a few bad employees. We won’t let this continue because we can’t let this continue. The health and well-being of our veterans is too important.
Read more...
MCCOLLUM STATEMENT ON 2017 LGBT PRIDE MONTH
Betty McCollum (D-MN, 4th)
June 23, 2017
“Each June, we celebrate LGBT Pride Month. We honor the contributions of LGBT Americans, we recognize the activism and energy of LGBT leaders in holding the United States to its highest ideals, and we reflect on our ongoing work to forge a more just and inclusive country.
Read more...
McKinley Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Access to Lifesaving Medicine
David McKinley (R-WV, 1st)
June 22, 2017
The Patients Access to Treatments Act (PATA) will give patients with chronic, disabling, and life-threatening conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer, access to innovative drug therapies. By requiring insurance to cover these critical drugs, millions of patients will be able to afford vital life-saving medicine.
Read more...
U.S. REP. MCSALLY INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN BILL TO CONNECT VETERANS TO JOB TRAINING PROGRAMS
Martha McSally (R-AZ, 2nd)
June 22, 2017
U.S. Representative Martha McSally (R-AZ) introduced the bipartisan Veterans’ Entry to Apprenticeship Act. The bill would allow veterans to use their educational benefits to enroll in pre-apprenticeship programs and would provide returning veterans with a smooth transition to the civilian workforce.
Read more...
Meng Reintroduces Legislation to Ban the Sale of Expired Baby Formula
Grace Meng (D-NY, 6th)
June 22, 2017
“It is mind boggling that in 2017 it is legal for stores to sell expired baby formula,” said Meng. “As a parent, I find that reprehensible, and have introduced the Infant Formula Protection Act every term I’ve been in Congress to correct this glaring error in the law. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support my commonsense legislation.”
Read more...
MITCHELL ON THE HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE STRENGTHENING CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION FOR THE 21ST CENTURY ACT
Paul Mitchell (R MI, 10th)
June 22, 2017
“I spent 35 years in workforce education, so I know the economic opportunity and advantages of the right education. Too often students aren’t given the opportunity to choose a career and technical education (CTE) program,” said Representative Mitchell.
Read more...
President Signs New VA Accountability Law
John Moolenaar (R-MI, 4th)
June 23, 2017
“In a time when so much news coverage focuses on division in Washington, as Americans there is still more that unites us than divides us. Republicans, Democrats and President Trump all agree that our veterans deserve the best care. The new law the president signed today will promote accountability in government and help the VA provide our veterans with the care they have earned in service to our country.”
Read more...
Senate Healthcare Bill, First Amendment, Wounded Warriors, Behavioral Health, Event Alert
AARP Calls on Senate to Reject Health Bill
AARP
June 22, 2017
AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond released the following statement in response to the Senate bill which imposes an “Age Tax” on older adults—increasing health insurance premiums and reducing tax credits, makes cuts to both Medicare and Medicaid funding, and yet gives billions of dollars in tax breaks to drug and insurance companies. AARP calls on every Senator to vote ‘NO’ on this harmful bill.
Read more...
Federal union leader says Senate health care bill ‘shameful’
American Federation for Government Employees
June 22, 2017
"The Senate's bill follows the same failed approach as the House-passed bill. It would deny health care coverage to millions of Americans in order to lavish huge tax cuts on corporations and the wealthiest 1 percent.
Read more...
The Senate’s Better Care Reconciliation Act is Irredeemable, would eliminate 12 Percent of CDC’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2018
Trust for America’s Health
June 22, 2017
If the Better Care Reconciliation Act becomes law, tens of millions will lose insurance. A critical part of what they’ll lose is access to the care they need to prevent or manage chronic conditions in a life- and cost-saving way. More than 80 percent of the $3 trillion dollars we spend every year on healthcare goes to individuals with one or more chronic conditions—with better preventive care and well managed chronic disease clinical services we can reduce costs and improve health outcomes.
Read more...
Court Expresses Concerns About First Amendment Violations Before Dismissing Appeal
First Liberty Institute
June 22, 2017
Writing for the majority Judge Moritz stated, “We assume that the defendants violated Sause’s rights under the First Amendment when, according to Sause, they repeatedly mocked her, ordered her to stop praying so they could harass her, threatened her with arrest and public humiliation, insisted that she show them the scars from her double mastectomy, and then ‘appeared…disgusted’ when she complied – all over a mere noise complaint.”
Read more...
Army Veteran Finds Light In His Recovery With Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project
June 22, 2017
"I realized there is light inside me," Joey said. "That light is my wife, my kids, and the Holy Spirit. I can achieve recovery with them by my side and with the tools I learned at the workshop. I'll do it for me and to show my brothers and sisters it's possible."
Read more...
Sovereign Health: Protesters and Shaken up Employees Stand Up for Behavioral Health Patients
Sovereign Health
June 22, 2017
Tuesday’s protest follows the incident on Tuesday June 13, in which armed federal, state and local officials searched the offices of Sovereign Health’s Culver City, Palm Desert and San Clemente facilities. What the authorities termed a “raid” was actually an unnecessary and brutal disruption to doing what the company does best – providing specialized care for patients with behavioral and mental health issues.
Read more...
EVENT ALERT: 60 Talk Radio Hosts Converging on Capitol Hill, June 28 and 29 to Evaluate Trump's Progress on Immigration and Urge Congress to Act
The Ponder News
June 22, 2017
On June 28 and 29, more than 60 talk radio hosts from around the country will converge on Washington, D.C., for the 11th annual – and largest ever – Hold Their Feet to the Fire radio row event. Their intent is to make sure the President delivers on his immigration promises and that Congress acts. Sponsored by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), the event features two days of live, continuous broadcasting with talk hosts debating and interviewing dozens of members of Congress, administration officials, policy experts, law enforcement professionals, and people whose lives have been forever changed by our failed and dangerous immigration policies.
What: Hold Their Feet to the Fire Radio Row
When: Wednesday June 28 and Thursday June 29, 6 am to 9 pm
Where: Phoenix Park Hotel 520 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington D.C.
Contact FAIRUS.org for more information
AARP
June 22, 2017
AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond released the following statement in response to the Senate bill which imposes an “Age Tax” on older adults—increasing health insurance premiums and reducing tax credits, makes cuts to both Medicare and Medicaid funding, and yet gives billions of dollars in tax breaks to drug and insurance companies. AARP calls on every Senator to vote ‘NO’ on this harmful bill.
Read more...
Federal union leader says Senate health care bill ‘shameful’
American Federation for Government Employees
June 22, 2017
"The Senate's bill follows the same failed approach as the House-passed bill. It would deny health care coverage to millions of Americans in order to lavish huge tax cuts on corporations and the wealthiest 1 percent.
Read more...
The Senate’s Better Care Reconciliation Act is Irredeemable, would eliminate 12 Percent of CDC’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2018
Trust for America’s Health
June 22, 2017
If the Better Care Reconciliation Act becomes law, tens of millions will lose insurance. A critical part of what they’ll lose is access to the care they need to prevent or manage chronic conditions in a life- and cost-saving way. More than 80 percent of the $3 trillion dollars we spend every year on healthcare goes to individuals with one or more chronic conditions—with better preventive care and well managed chronic disease clinical services we can reduce costs and improve health outcomes.
Read more...
Court Expresses Concerns About First Amendment Violations Before Dismissing Appeal
First Liberty Institute
June 22, 2017
Writing for the majority Judge Moritz stated, “We assume that the defendants violated Sause’s rights under the First Amendment when, according to Sause, they repeatedly mocked her, ordered her to stop praying so they could harass her, threatened her with arrest and public humiliation, insisted that she show them the scars from her double mastectomy, and then ‘appeared…disgusted’ when she complied – all over a mere noise complaint.”
Read more...
Army Veteran Finds Light In His Recovery With Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project
June 22, 2017
"I realized there is light inside me," Joey said. "That light is my wife, my kids, and the Holy Spirit. I can achieve recovery with them by my side and with the tools I learned at the workshop. I'll do it for me and to show my brothers and sisters it's possible."
Read more...
Sovereign Health: Protesters and Shaken up Employees Stand Up for Behavioral Health Patients
Sovereign Health
June 22, 2017
Tuesday’s protest follows the incident on Tuesday June 13, in which armed federal, state and local officials searched the offices of Sovereign Health’s Culver City, Palm Desert and San Clemente facilities. What the authorities termed a “raid” was actually an unnecessary and brutal disruption to doing what the company does best – providing specialized care for patients with behavioral and mental health issues.
Read more...
EVENT ALERT: 60 Talk Radio Hosts Converging on Capitol Hill, June 28 and 29 to Evaluate Trump's Progress on Immigration and Urge Congress to Act
The Ponder News
June 22, 2017
On June 28 and 29, more than 60 talk radio hosts from around the country will converge on Washington, D.C., for the 11th annual – and largest ever – Hold Their Feet to the Fire radio row event. Their intent is to make sure the President delivers on his immigration promises and that Congress acts. Sponsored by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), the event features two days of live, continuous broadcasting with talk hosts debating and interviewing dozens of members of Congress, administration officials, policy experts, law enforcement professionals, and people whose lives have been forever changed by our failed and dangerous immigration policies.
What: Hold Their Feet to the Fire Radio Row
When: Wednesday June 28 and Thursday June 29, 6 am to 9 pm
Where: Phoenix Park Hotel 520 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington D.C.
Contact FAIRUS.org for more information
Thursday, June 22, 2017
Child Immigrants, Land Management, Freight Infrastructure, Careers, Health Insurance, Climate Change, Flood Insurance, Healthcare Bill, Concealed Carry
Statement on markup of H.R. 495, a Republican bill to remove child welfare protections
Zoe Lofgren (D-CA, 19th)
June 21, 2017
To argue that this bill “protects” children because it discourages them from making the journey to the U.S. misses the point. These kids, many of them, are fleeing from violent and desperate situations including forced sexual slavery, gang recruitment, and extortion.
Read more...
Loudermilk Supports Common-sense Policies to Protect our Lands and Citizens
Barry Loudermilk (R-GA, 11th)
June 22, 2017
“Government bureaucrats are good at trying to fix problems that don’t exist, often creating even bigger problems. When those problems arise, they promptly cast blame on someone else. Federal land management agencies have been prohibiting utility companies from inspecting and maintaining electrical lines that run through federal lands. Keeping utility companies from maintaining the trees and foliage along the power lines has contributed to many forest fires, as trees fall across active lines. Of course, the agencies blame the utility companies for the damage. This legislation will replace bureaucratic red-tape with common-sense policies that will allow utility companies access to maintain their lines, protecting our lands and citizens.”
Read more...
Congressman Lowenthal Bill Will Create Dedicated Revenue Source To Invest In Crumbling National Freight Infrastructure
Alan Lowenthal (D-CA, 47th)
June 22, 2017
The Congressman’s bill, H.R. 3001, The National Multimodal and Sustainable Freight Infrastructure Act, builds on the success of the FAST Act and ensures continued investment in the goods movement network. The bill would raise roughly $8 billion a year dedicated to freight-related infrastructure projects throughout the nation, with a focus on multimodal projects and projects that rebuild aging infrastructure while relieving bottlenecks in the freight transportation system.
Read more...
Luetkemeyer Supports Bill to Strengthen Career and Technical Education Programs
Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MI, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
“Career and technical education programs are so important for individuals throughout Missouri because they help high school and community college students attain the hands-on experience they need for jobs in a broad range of industries,” Luetkemeyer said. “This legislation will empower state and local community leaders with the resources and flexibility they need to build community partnerships and foster educational engagement with employers. Programs in the 3rd District particularly will benefit by the increase in the percentage of federal funds states can set aside to assist students in rural areas. I am pleased this bipartisan legislation passed in the House and I hope the Senate brings this important bill up for debate in the near future.”
Read more...
LUJÁN INTRODUCES BILL TO HELP STATES ENROLL MORE KIDS IN HEALTH INSURANCE
Ben R. Lujan (D-NM, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
Congressman Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) introduced legislation that will help states enroll more children in healthcare coverage by expanding the outreach and enrollment grant program. Luján’s bill also allows for the inclusion of parent mentors in the grants program. Outreach and enrollment grants help to identify and enroll children who are eligible for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Read more...
Rep. Lynch Introduces Climate Change National Security Strategy Act
Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA, 8th)
June 15, 2017
Following President Donald Trump’s announcement earlier this month that he would abandon the Paris Climate Agreement, just months after President Trump rescinded President Barack Obama’s “Climate Change and National Security” memorandum, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-Boston), the lead Democrat on the National Security Subcommittee, introduced H.R. 2908, the Climate Change National Security Strategy Act of 2017. In light of President Trump’s actions as well as the current and potential impact of climate change on national security, H.R. 2908 ensures that the Federal Government appropriately considers climate change in the development of national security strategies and policies.
Read more...
Congressman MacArthur’s Statement on National Flood Insurance Reform
Tom MacArthur (R-NJ, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
Nearly, five years ago, Superstorm Sandy devastated the Jersey Shore. Ocean County - my home - was the epicenter of the storm and half of all NJ Sandy flood claims happened here. Even today, many families are still not back in their homes and are dealing with the effects of this storm because of mismanagement at FEMA. The terrible response to this storm coupled with an opportunity to reauthorize and reform the NFIP are two big reasons why I sought a seat on the House Financial Services Committee during this Congress.
Read more...
Rep. Maloney Statement on Senate Republican Healthcare Bill
Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
June 22, 2017
“The Senate Republicans' so-called healthcare bill is deceptively named and disastrously constructed, especially for New York. This bill, drafted in secret, is just as cruel as the one every Democrat opposed in the House. Instead of expanding access to healthcare as promised by the President, it will rip away health insurance from millions of New Yorkers. Instead of making premiums more affordable as promised, it will cause New Yorkers' premiums to increase. It does all this while cutting coverage for essential health benefits like maternity care and mental health, and cutting off federal funding for Planned Parenthood, leaving many New Yorkers with no access to affordable care. This new Senate Republican bill is a Category 5 man-made disaster for New Yorkers and I hope my colleagues in the Senate will stop it dead in its tracks.”
Read more...
Maloney Introduces “Do Unto Others” Legislation to Put Members of Congress on the Bad Health Plans They Forced on Constituents
Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY, 18th)
June 22, 2017
“What’s good for the goose is good for the gander – Members of Congress who vote for a garbage health care bill shouldn’t get to keep their special access to Obamacare while they stick their constituents with more expensive plans that cover less,” said Rep. Maloney. “Don’t think your state should cover Essential Health Benefits like hospital stays or prescription drugs? Then your family shouldn’t get that coverage either. If you think high risk pools are so great, you can join one. Think older folks should be charged more for their care? You can pay those rates too.”
Read more...
Congressman Massie Introduces the D.C Personal Protection Reciprocity Act
Thomas Massie (R-KY, 4th)
June 15, 2017
Congressman Thomas Massie, Chairman of the Congressional Second Amendment Caucus, introduced H.R 2909, the D.C Personal Protection Reciprocity Act. This legislation would allow individuals with a valid concealed carry permit issued from their home state to carry their firearms in the District of Columbia.
Read more...
Zoe Lofgren (D-CA, 19th)
June 21, 2017
To argue that this bill “protects” children because it discourages them from making the journey to the U.S. misses the point. These kids, many of them, are fleeing from violent and desperate situations including forced sexual slavery, gang recruitment, and extortion.
Read more...
Loudermilk Supports Common-sense Policies to Protect our Lands and Citizens
Barry Loudermilk (R-GA, 11th)
June 22, 2017
“Government bureaucrats are good at trying to fix problems that don’t exist, often creating even bigger problems. When those problems arise, they promptly cast blame on someone else. Federal land management agencies have been prohibiting utility companies from inspecting and maintaining electrical lines that run through federal lands. Keeping utility companies from maintaining the trees and foliage along the power lines has contributed to many forest fires, as trees fall across active lines. Of course, the agencies blame the utility companies for the damage. This legislation will replace bureaucratic red-tape with common-sense policies that will allow utility companies access to maintain their lines, protecting our lands and citizens.”
Read more...
Congressman Lowenthal Bill Will Create Dedicated Revenue Source To Invest In Crumbling National Freight Infrastructure
Alan Lowenthal (D-CA, 47th)
June 22, 2017
The Congressman’s bill, H.R. 3001, The National Multimodal and Sustainable Freight Infrastructure Act, builds on the success of the FAST Act and ensures continued investment in the goods movement network. The bill would raise roughly $8 billion a year dedicated to freight-related infrastructure projects throughout the nation, with a focus on multimodal projects and projects that rebuild aging infrastructure while relieving bottlenecks in the freight transportation system.
Read more...
Luetkemeyer Supports Bill to Strengthen Career and Technical Education Programs
Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MI, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
“Career and technical education programs are so important for individuals throughout Missouri because they help high school and community college students attain the hands-on experience they need for jobs in a broad range of industries,” Luetkemeyer said. “This legislation will empower state and local community leaders with the resources and flexibility they need to build community partnerships and foster educational engagement with employers. Programs in the 3rd District particularly will benefit by the increase in the percentage of federal funds states can set aside to assist students in rural areas. I am pleased this bipartisan legislation passed in the House and I hope the Senate brings this important bill up for debate in the near future.”
Read more...
LUJÁN INTRODUCES BILL TO HELP STATES ENROLL MORE KIDS IN HEALTH INSURANCE
Ben R. Lujan (D-NM, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
Congressman Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) introduced legislation that will help states enroll more children in healthcare coverage by expanding the outreach and enrollment grant program. Luján’s bill also allows for the inclusion of parent mentors in the grants program. Outreach and enrollment grants help to identify and enroll children who are eligible for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Read more...
Rep. Lynch Introduces Climate Change National Security Strategy Act
Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA, 8th)
June 15, 2017
Following President Donald Trump’s announcement earlier this month that he would abandon the Paris Climate Agreement, just months after President Trump rescinded President Barack Obama’s “Climate Change and National Security” memorandum, Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-Boston), the lead Democrat on the National Security Subcommittee, introduced H.R. 2908, the Climate Change National Security Strategy Act of 2017. In light of President Trump’s actions as well as the current and potential impact of climate change on national security, H.R. 2908 ensures that the Federal Government appropriately considers climate change in the development of national security strategies and policies.
Read more...
Congressman MacArthur’s Statement on National Flood Insurance Reform
Tom MacArthur (R-NJ, 3rd)
June 22, 2017
Nearly, five years ago, Superstorm Sandy devastated the Jersey Shore. Ocean County - my home - was the epicenter of the storm and half of all NJ Sandy flood claims happened here. Even today, many families are still not back in their homes and are dealing with the effects of this storm because of mismanagement at FEMA. The terrible response to this storm coupled with an opportunity to reauthorize and reform the NFIP are two big reasons why I sought a seat on the House Financial Services Committee during this Congress.
Read more...
Rep. Maloney Statement on Senate Republican Healthcare Bill
Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
June 22, 2017
“The Senate Republicans' so-called healthcare bill is deceptively named and disastrously constructed, especially for New York. This bill, drafted in secret, is just as cruel as the one every Democrat opposed in the House. Instead of expanding access to healthcare as promised by the President, it will rip away health insurance from millions of New Yorkers. Instead of making premiums more affordable as promised, it will cause New Yorkers' premiums to increase. It does all this while cutting coverage for essential health benefits like maternity care and mental health, and cutting off federal funding for Planned Parenthood, leaving many New Yorkers with no access to affordable care. This new Senate Republican bill is a Category 5 man-made disaster for New Yorkers and I hope my colleagues in the Senate will stop it dead in its tracks.”
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Maloney Introduces “Do Unto Others” Legislation to Put Members of Congress on the Bad Health Plans They Forced on Constituents
Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY, 18th)
June 22, 2017
“What’s good for the goose is good for the gander – Members of Congress who vote for a garbage health care bill shouldn’t get to keep their special access to Obamacare while they stick their constituents with more expensive plans that cover less,” said Rep. Maloney. “Don’t think your state should cover Essential Health Benefits like hospital stays or prescription drugs? Then your family shouldn’t get that coverage either. If you think high risk pools are so great, you can join one. Think older folks should be charged more for their care? You can pay those rates too.”
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Congressman Massie Introduces the D.C Personal Protection Reciprocity Act
Thomas Massie (R-KY, 4th)
June 15, 2017
Congressman Thomas Massie, Chairman of the Congressional Second Amendment Caucus, introduced H.R 2909, the D.C Personal Protection Reciprocity Act. This legislation would allow individuals with a valid concealed carry permit issued from their home state to carry their firearms in the District of Columbia.
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