American Healthcare Act, Flood Insurance, terrorists, Federal Agencies, Regulatory "Dark Matter", Free Speech, Travel Ban

CRIST STATEMENT ON CBO SCORE OF REPUBLICAN HEALTHCARE REPEAL
Charlie Crist (D FL, 13th)
March 13, 2017
Congressman Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) made the following statement after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) found the Republican healthcare repeal bill would result in 14 million fewer Americans having health care coverage in 2018, with a total of 24 million Americans losing coverage by 2026. At the same time, those with coverage would see higher out-of-pocket costs, including higher deductibles and premium increases of 15-20 percent. The bill also would cut $880 billion from Medicaid, gutting the program that 70 million low-income Americans depend on for care, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.
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Menendez Outlines Sweeping Reforms to FEMA’s Broken National Flood Insurance Program
Robert Menendez - (D - NJ)
March 13, 2017
U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), chair of the Sandy Task Force and a senior member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, laid out a series of robust reforms to the much-maligned National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that experienced widespread failures and fraud, cheating storm victims and hampering recovery in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. Sen. Menendez aims to make the NFIP: simple, affordable, fair, efficient and accountable to consumers and taxpayers.
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MERKLEY: CBO SCORE SOUNDS THE ALARM – LIFE-AND-DEATH CARE AT RISK FOR MILLIONS
Jeff Merkley - (D - OR)
March 13, 2017
Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley released the following statement after the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) issued its scoring of the American Health Care Act, or “Trumpcare:”
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Dr. Rand Paul Introduces the Stop Arming Terrorists Act
Senator Rand Paul - (R - KY)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Senator Rand Paul introduced the Stop Arming Terrorists Act (S. 532) to prevent American taxpayers’ money from being used to directly or indirectly support armed militants who are allied with or often working under the command of al-Qaeda, ISIS, or other terrorist groups. The legislation serves as a companion bill to H.R. 608, which Representative Tulsi Gabbard (HI-2) reintroduced in January.
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Sen. Moran Introduces Legislation to Restore Trade with Cuba
Senator Jerry Moran- (R - KS)
March 13, 2017
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) recently introduced The Cuba Trade Act of 2017 (S. 472), which would restore trade with Cuba and grant the private sector the freedom to export U.S. goods and services to Cuba while protecting U.S. taxpayers from any risk or exposure associated with such trade.
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MURPHY ON TRUMPCARE CBO SCORE: “PASSING THIS BILL WOULD BE A HUGE MISTAKE”
Christopher Murphy- (D - CT)
March 13, 2017
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, released the following statement on Monday after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released their projected cost and reach of Republicans’ misguided Trumpcare. The CBO report made clear that under Trumpcare, 24 million fewer people would be insured by 2026 and average premiums would increase by 15-20% for single policyholders in the individual market.
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Citizens Against Government Waste Praises President Trump’s Executive Order to Improve the Efficiency of Federal Agencies
Citizens Against Government Waste
March 13, 2017
Citizens Against Government Waste (CAGW), America’s largest taxpayer watchdog group, applauded President Donald Trump’s executive order “directing the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to submit a comprehensive plan to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability of the executive branch,” including the elimination or reorganization of redundant or unnecessary federal agencies.
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Mapping Washington’s Lawlessness: CEI Releases Updated Inventory of “Regulatory Dark Matter”
Competitive Enterprise Institute
March 14, 2017
Today, the Competitive Enterprise (CEI) released the 2017 update to its comprehensive report Mapping Washington’s Lawlessness: An Inventory of “Regulatory Dark Matter.” This analysis covers how, in addition to Congress’s own laws and the many thousands of rules issued by unelected regulators, regulatory dark matter exists in the form of thousands of additional issuances from executive and independent agencies. This dark matter goes around Congress, the Administrative Procedure Act’s (APA) public notice and comment requirements, and the American people themselves.
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CVA TESTIFIES ON ANTI-FREE SPEECH MEASURE S.255
Concerned Veterans for America
March 14, 2017
“Veterans sacrificed for the right for all of us to stand up and speak freely about the issues we care about. But if S.255 passes, South Carolinians could be intimidated from supporting a cause or making a statement. This is America – no one should be forced to report their private information to the government and fear retaliation for their beliefs. We urge the state Senate to protect the First Amendment and block S.255 today.”
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Important information on Executive Order – Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States
Bureau of Consular Affairs
MARCH 13, 2017
On March 6, 2017, President Trump signed a new Executive Order on Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States which directs us to review current screening procedures, while protecting national security – our top priority when issuing visas.
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News: Climate Change, Flood Insurance, Cybersecurity, Veterans, Immigration, Airline Seats, Seniors, Volkswagon

Rep. Cartwright Introduces Bill to Improve Climate Change Resilience
Matthew Cartwright (D-PA, 17th)
March 9, 2017
Congressman Matt Cartwright introduced a bipartisan bill that would strengthen America’s ability to withstand the challenges posed by climate change. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) SUCCESS Act directs NIST to convene an effort to make consistent, authoritative set of climate information available to standard-developing organizations (SDOs).
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Castor, Ross Reintroduce Bipartisan Flood Insurance Bill to Help Homeowners
Kathy Castor (D-FL, 14th)
March 8, 2017
U.S. Rep. Dennis A. Ross (R-FL-15), Senior Deputy Majority Whip, today reintroduced his bipartisan legislation, the Flood Insurance Market Parity and Modernization Act, which would encourage the development of a robust private flood insurance market that can offer homeowners options in terms of pricing and coverage.
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Castro, Cornyn Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Local Cybersecurity Defenses
Joaquin Castro (D-TX, 20th)
March 10, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) yesterday reintroduced The National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act, H.R. 1465, legislation that allows non-profit entities, including universities, to work more closely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to address cybersecurity risks and incidents at the state and local level. Every member of the San Antonio delegation in the House (Reps. Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Will Hurd (TX-23), and Lamar Smith (TX-21)) has signed on as a co-sponsor of the measure, and Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) has also reintroduced the Senate companion bill. Both Rep. Castro and Sen. Cornyn initially introduced the legislation in the 114th Congress, when it passed the House of Representatives with broad support.
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Cornyn, Leahy, Cruz Introduce Bill to Enhance Cybersecurity
Senator Patrick J. Leahy - (D - VT)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), and Ted Cruz (R-TX) have introduced the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act to authorize the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to work with the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC) to help prepare for and respond to cybersecurity risks at the national, state, and local levels.
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Coffman Introduces Bipartisan ‘Veterans Reimbursement for Emergency Ambulance Services' Act (VREASA)
Mike Coffman (R-CO, 6th)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Representative Mike Coffman (R-CO) with bipartisan support has introduced H.R. 1445, the ‘Veterans Reimbursement for Emergency Ambulance Services Act’. The intent is to correct the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) regulations that unfairly saddle veterans with emergency ambulance payments.
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Curbelo, Coffman, Introduce Recognize American Children Act
Mike Coffman (R-CO, 6th)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Representative Carlos Curbelo (FL-26) along with U.S. Representative Mike Coffman (CO-06) have introduced the Recognizing America’s Children (RAC) Act, legislation that would provide a path to legal status for undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children.The bill provides immigrants that have been vetted by The Department of Homeland Security with three pathways toward legalization: higher education, service in the armed forces, or work authorization. Following a 5-year conditional status, these immigrants would be able to reapply for a 5-year permanent status.
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Reps. Cohen and Kinzinger, Senators Blumenthal, Schumer, Markey, Menendez and Feinstein Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral SEAT Act
Steve Cohen (D-TN, 9th)
March 9, 2017
The SEAT Act would establish a minimum seat size on commercial airlines as well as a minimum distance between rows of seats to protect the safety and health of airline passengers.
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King, Collins, Schatz Introduce Bill to Help America’s Seniors Safely Age at Home
Senator Angus S. King Jr. - (I - ME)
March 9, 2017
As more Americans are choosing to grow older in their own homes, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) today introduced legislation that will help make independent living less burdensome.
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Markey and Blumenthal Statemenet on Volkswagen Guilty Plea
Senator Edward J.Markey - (D - MA)
March 10, 2017
Washington (March 10, 2017) - U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement today after Volkswagen pleaded guilty to three felony counts as part of an agreement with the Department of Justice to settle charges related to the automaker’s vehicle emission scandal.
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News to Ponder, March 10

Remaining 46 U.S. attorneys hired by Obama asked to resign: Justice Dept
MSN.com
March 10, 2017
U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has asked the remaining 46 chief federal prosecutors appointed by President Barack Obama who have not already resigned to do so "in order to ensure a uniform transition," the Justice Department said on Friday.
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Buck’s Innocent Party Protection Act Passes House
Ken Buck (R-CO, 4th)
March 10, 2017
Congressman Ken Buck’s (CO-04) Innocent Party Protection Act (IPPA) passed the House by a vote of ___ to ___. This legislation prevents trial lawyers from fraudulently joining local small businesses to a lawsuit in order to have their case heard in a court they perceive to be a more favorable forum. The small businesses are added to the suit, even though the trial lawyers have no intention of pursuing a claim against them. When these small businesses are dragged into the courtroom and forced to pay legal fees to defend themselves for doing nothing wrong, they can't focus on creating jobs and adding value to the American economy. The IPPA gives judges more discretion to prevent the practice of fraudulent joinder.
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Butterfield Commemorates Women’s History Month with Librarian of Congress
G.K. Butterfield (D-NC, 1st)
March 10, 2017
March marks Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the role women have played in American history. This week, Congressman G. K. Butterfield (NC-01) commemorated Women’s History Month with a discussion with Dr. Carla Hayden, the 14th Librarian of Congress.
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Heitkamp Joins Tester in Fight to Expose Dark, Unaccountable Money in Politics
Senator Heidi Heitkamp - (D - ND)
March 10, 2017
U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp joined Senator Jon Tester of Montana in an effort to push back against dark money in politics, signing onto a bill he introduced to make sure the public knows who is funneling money into tax-exempt groups that currently aren’t required to disclose their donors as they try to influence elections through TV and radio ads, direct mail, and more.
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HOEVEN JOINS SENATOR LANKFORD IN INTRODUCING SMALL BUSINESS REGULATORY RELIEF BILL
John Hoeven - (R - ND)
March 10, 2017
Senator John Hoeven today announced that he has joined Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) in introducing the Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act, legislation that requires federal agencies to analyze the full impact of proposed regulations on small businesses during the rulemaking process.
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Taylor lecture addresses religious freedom
Chronicle-Tribune
March 10, 2017
The Heritage Foundation’s Ryan T. Anderson tackled pressing arguments about religious liberty and LGBT discrimination in the United States at Taylor University Thursday night.
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THEOLOGY AND ALCOHOL
The Courier Times
March 10, 2017
New Castle native Samuel Frost is author of a new book that examines the meaning of God as relates to Alcoholics Anonymous and controversies through the years about inclusion of a deity in the 12 steps of recovery outlined by the AA program. The book is called God, As Bill Wilson Understood Him, by Samuel M. Frost, Th.M.
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News: Murder, Defense Appropriations, Repealing Obamacare, Women, Eating Dogs and Cats, Missiles, Financial Scams, Wiretapping, Whistleblowers, Education

Police: Solano County man kills daughter-in-law with hammer
SFGate
March 8, 2017
A 63-year-old man was arrested after confessing that he beat his daughter-in-law to death with a hammer in the garage of their Suisun City home because she disrespected him, police said Wednesday.
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Congressman Andy Biggs’ Statement on Passage of FY17 Defense Appropriations Act
Andy Biggs (R-AZ, 5th)
March 8, 2017
Today, the House of Representatives passed the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2017. This bill appropriates $577.9 billion for the Department of Defense ($516.1 billion in base discretionary funding and $61.8 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations / Global War on Terrorism funding). After voting on the bill’s passage, Congressman Andy Biggs released the following statement:
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Bilirakis Gives Remarks During Debate on the American Health Care Act
Gus Bilirakis (R-FL, 12th)
March 8, 2017
During a key House committee debate on the American Health Care Act, the bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA), U.S. Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) highlighted constituents who faced problems due to the ACA.
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Reps. Bishop, Johnson Re-Introduce Bipartisan Mobile Workforce Bill in 115th Congress
Mike Bishop (R-MI, 8th)
March 7, 2017
Congressman Mike Bishop (MI-8) has re-introduced his third bipartisan bill in the 115th Congress with support from Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-4), the Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act of 2017. The bicameral legislation, once again led by Senators John Thune and Sherrod Brown, simplifies state income tax requirements for employees who work multiple days per year outside the state of their residence.
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Blumenauer on GOP Health Care Plan: “Stop This Trainwreck”
Earl Blumenauer (D-OR, 3rd)
March 9, 2017
Today, despite stringent opposition from Democrats, the House Ways and Means Committee took its first step in moving the Republican “health care” proposal toward the House Floor. Congressman Earl Blumenauer (OR-03) voted against the bill and released the following statement:
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Bonamici Statement on International Women’s Day
Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR, 1st)
Mar 8, 2017
Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) released the following statement in recognition of International Women’s Day:
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BORDALLO STATEMENT ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Madeleine Bordallo (D-Guam)
Mar 8, 2017
Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo today released the following statement regarding International Women’s Day.
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Boyle Introduces Dog and Cat Meat Trade Prohibition Act of 2017
Brendan Boyle (D-PA, 13th)
March 7, 2017
“The fact that this legislation is even necessary today is astonishing. It is past time for us to outlaw such a cruel and barbaric practice once and for all. The Dog and Cat Meat Trade Prohibition Act of 2017 will finally make it illegal to slaughter animals most of us think of as family members. It is my hope that, with the passage of this bill, the United States will no longer be party to this disgusting practice,” said Congressman Boyle.
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Feinstein, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Veterans’ Recruitment Bill
Senator Dianne Feinstein - (D - CA)
March, 9 2017
Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) joined 7 Senate colleagues to cosponsor the American Law Enforcement Heroes Act, which will prioritize the U.S. Department of Justice COPS grant applications of law enforcement agencies who use that funding to hire veterans. This legislation was introduced by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) and also cosponsored by Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), and Dean Heller (R-Nev.).
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Senators Introduce Legislation to Limit Spending on Nuclear War-Fighting Missiles
Senator Dianne Feinstein - (D - CA)
March, 8 2017
Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) joined Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and 7 other senators in introducing legislation that will limit funding for a new nuclear-armed air-launched missile, also called the Long-Range Standoff Weapon (LRSO). The cruise missile would be more precise and could be launched without warning, putting pressure on other nuclear-armed states to keep their arsenals on high alert and increasing the risk of nuclear war. Cruise missiles also come in both nuclear and non-nuclear varieties, so the use of a non-nuclear missile against another nuclear-armed state could be mistaken for a nuclear strike, leading to unintended nuclear war. The missile and its refurbished warhead will reportedly cost between $20-30 billion over twenty years to build. Specifically, the legislation caps funding for the missile and its warhead at 2017 levels until the Trump administration submits a Nuclear Posture Review to Congress.
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Flake Introduces Resolution to Protect Consumers from Overreaching Internet Regulation
Senator Jeff Flake - (R - AZ)
March 7, 2017
U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology and the Law, today introduced a resolution to repeal economically harmful broadband regulations issued by the Obama administration.
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Senators Gillibrand And Collins Announce New Bipartisan Legislation To Protect Seniors From Financial Scams
Senator Kirsten E.Gillibrand - (D - NY)
March 7, 2017
U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Susan Collins (R-ME) today announced the Senior Financial Empowerment Act, new bipartisan legislation to protect seniors from financial fraud.
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Senators Graham And Whitehouse Request Warrant Applications And Court Orders Related To Possible Wiretapping Of President Trump, Trump Campaign, Or Trump Tower
Senator Lindsey Graham - (R - SC)
March, 8 2017
U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island), the chair and ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism, today sent a letter to the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Acting Deputy Attorney General requesting information on possible wiretapping of President Trump, the Trump campaign, or Trump Tower.
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Senators Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Whistleblowers
Senator Chuck Grassley - (R - IA)
March, 8 2017
Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), ranking member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, introduced the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) Reauthorization Act and the Follow the Rules Act Wednesday. These bipartisan pieces of legislation would provide greater protections to federal government whistleblowers.
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Senate acts to protect authority of states to manage their own schools
Senator Michael B. Enzi - (R - WY)
March 9, 2017
The Senate voted today to rescind a Department of Education regulation that directly contradicted a bipartisan education bill Congress passed in 2015, which put control back in the hands of states and parents.
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Putting Cats, Dogs, Pigs and Cows on the Menu...

by Shonda Ponder
March 9, 2017
Opinion

Brendan Boyle (D-PA, 13th) introduced a bill in congress on March 7, 2017 that would outlaw eating dogs and cats in the U.S.A.

At first glance, I am thinking, "Now that is ONE piece of legislation by a Democrat that I can actually get behind."

However, upon further thought, I start thinking, where does it stop? What happens when they outlaw pork? Should we be telling Americans what to eat (outside of legislating against cannibalism) in the privacy of their own homes?

Just a thought.

I may not like what you have to eat, but shouldn't I protect your right to eat it?

It sickens me to think my Milo would get eaten, though. On the other hand, it probably sickens Jews and Muslims and some Christians to eat pork just as badly. It sickens Indians to eat cows. So, where does it stop?

The Ponder News: Midwives, gun rights, Health Care, NASA, Veterans, Travel Ban, South Korea, Sexual Abuse, Planned Parenthood, Avian Flu

Vote is today on midwife regulation bill in Alabama
TimesDaily
March 7, 2017
Jessica Thompson is just weeks from delivering her fourth child, a son, and she wants a midwife-assisted birth at her Lauderdale County home.

But that would be against the law.

Alabama law does not allow certified professional midwives to practice in the state. The law has stipulations for nurse midwives to practice under an Alabama doctor, but there are few practicing in the state, and even those can't assist a woman desiring to delivery outside a hospital.
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Trump signs Abraham gun rights bill into law
Ralph Abraham (R-LA, 5th)
March 2, 2017
The law ends a regulation implemented in the midnight hours of the Obama administration that required the Social Security Administration to submit to the FBI the names of all beneficiaries who are assigned a representative payee to manage their financial affairs due to a mental disability. Their names would then be put in the National Instant Criminal Background Check system, which would effectively eliminate their Second Amendment right to buy and possess firearms without due process.
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Congresswoman Adams Statement on the American Healthcare Act
March 7, 2017
Alma Adams (D-NC, 12th)
Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12) released the following statement after Congressional Republicans announced their healthcare plan intended to replace the Affordable Care Act.
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Allen on American Health Care Act
Rick Allen (R-GA, 12th)
March 7, 2017
House Republicans on the Ways and Means Committee and Energy and Commerce Committee recently introduced the American Health Care Act. This legislation is part of the House Republican agenda to bring Obamacare relief to Americans. Congressman Rick Allen (R-Ga.-12) released the following statement:
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House Approves NASA Transition Authorization Act
Brian Babin (R-TX, 36th)
March 7, 2017
The U.S. House of Representatives today approved the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Transition Authorization Act of 2017 (S.442), which cleared the Senate last month. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation reaffirms Congress’ commitment to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and directs NASA to pursue a balanced portfolio of activities. It now goes to the President’s desk to be signed into law.
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BANKS STATEMENT ON OBAMACARE REPLACEMENT PLAN
Jim Banks (R-IN, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) today released the following statement regarding the Republican plan to replace Obamacare:
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BANKS INTRODUCES BILL TO ALLOW VETERANS TO BE BURIED CLOSER TO HOME
Jim Banks (R-IN, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) today introduced a bill that would authorize the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to pay for the transportation of a deceased veteran’s remains to a state-owned or tribal-owned veterans cemetery. The VA is currently only authorized to transport such remains to a national veterans cemetery.
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REP. BARLETTA’S STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDER
Lou Barletta (R-PA, 11th)
March 6, 2017
Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11) today applauded President Trump’s latest executive order, which pauses the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days. It also suspends the issuance of new visas for 90 days for individuals from six countries that either are designated as state sponsors of terrorism, or have become terrorist hotbeds. The six countries are Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.
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Rep. Bass Rips New Health Proposal
Karen Bass (D-CA, 37th)
March 7, 2017
On Tuesday, Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.) issued the following statement in response to the House Republican plan to repeal the Affordable Care Act.
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Beatty Statement on Affordable Care Act Repeal and Replace Bill
Joyce Beatty (D-OH, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
On March 6th, House Republicans released legislation to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. In response, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement:
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Rep. Ami Bera Statement on Passage of NASA Transition Authorization Act
Amy Berra (D-CA, 7th)
Mar 7, 2017
Rep. Ami Bera, ranking member of the House Subcommittee on Space, released the following statement after the House voted to pass the NASA Transition Authorization Act, which establishes a funding range for the nation’s space program.
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Cotton Statement on China’s Criticism of Missile-Defense System in South Korea
Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR)
Mar 7, 2017
U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement in response to China's criticism of the THAAD missile-defense system recently deployed in South Korea:
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Congress Sends Bipartisan Cruz-Nelson NASA Transition Authorization Act to the President’s Desk
Senator Ted Cruz- (R - TX)
Mar 7, 2017
The U.S. House of Representatives today passed S. 442, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Transition Authorization Act of 2017, a bill originally introduced in the U.S. Senate by U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), along with Sens. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas). In the House, the chairmen with committees of jurisdiction for the bill are U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas), chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, and Rep. Brian Babin (R-Texas), chairman of the House Space Subcommittee. The legislation provides stability for NASA to sustain and build upon existing national space investments designed to advance space exploration and science with an overall authorization level of $19.508 billion for fiscal year 2017. With the House’s passage of the bill today, the legislation now heads to the White House to await President Donald Trump’s signature.
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Donnelly Joins Bipartisan Group of Senators to Introduce Bill Requiring U.S. Amateur Athletic Organizations, Members to Report Sexual Abuse
Senator Joe Donnely - (D - IN)
March 6, 2017
U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly joined a bipartisan group of Senators in introducing legislation that would require amateur athletics governing bodies to immediately report sex-abuse allegations to local or federal law enforcement, or a child-welfare agency designated by the Justice Department. The bill stems from recent allegations of sexual abuse made against personnel involved with USA Gymnastics, USA Swimming and USA Taekwondo. The bill was led by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and also introduced by Susan Collins (R-ME), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Jeff Flake (R-AZ) Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Todd Young (R-IN.)
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Duckworth Statement on the President’s Newest Discriminatory Executive Order
Senator Tammy Ducksworth (D - IL)
March 6, 2017
U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement regarding the executive order signed by the President today restricting travel from six Muslim-majority countries:
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Planned Parenthood CEOs Raking in the Cash at Taxpayers' Expense
American Life League
March 8, 2017
American Life League’s Stop Planned Parenthood International (STOPP) completed and released its third report on the compensation of the chief executive officer of each of Planned Parenthood’s 56 affiliates across the country. The report showed a significant increase in CEO compensation since the last report released in 2015.
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APA Concerned About Proposed ACA Replacement Bill
American Psychiatric Association
March 7, 2017
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is deeply concerned that the proposed ACA replacement released last night will negatively impact care for people with mental illness and substance use disorders. The APA urges continued support and expanded access to quality, evidence-based mental health and substance use services.
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America’s Road Team Captains Complete Weight Loss Challenge, Meet Health Goals
American Trucking Association
March 7, 2017
American Trucking Associations and America’s Road Team are congratulating five America’s Road Team Captains for successfully meeting their team’s weight loss goals and leading the field in Healthy Fleet’s 10 Pound Challenge.
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What Guttmacher got wrong … again.
Americans United for Life
March 8, 2017
With all the talk about the “need” for more funds for Planned Parenthood, many in the media ignore the reality that nobody goes to the nation’s number one abortion provider for a flu shot. Full-service medical care is available in many locations nationwide, along with contraception if that is desired. But the lucrative and grisly product that Planned Parenthood sells, first and foremost, is abortion. Redirecting scarce taxpayer and healthcare dollars to full-service, actual medical facilities is the right thing to do for mothers and their unborn children.
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USDA Issues Update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Tennessee
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Mar 7, 2017
USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed the full subtype for the highly pathogenic H7 avian influenza reported in Lincoln County, TN. The virus has been identified as North American wild bird lineage H7N9 HPAI based upon full genome sequence analysis of the samples at the NVSL. All eight gene segments of the virus are North American wild bird lineage. This is NOT the same as the China H7N9 virus that has impacted poultry and infected humans in Asia. While the subtype is the same as the China H7N9 lineage that emerged in 2013, this is a different virus and is genetically distinct from the China H7N9 lineage.
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Concord High School live Nativity found in violation of Constitution

Goshen News
March 7, 2017
A federal judge Monday ruled in favor of a challenge by plaintiffs stating that the live Nativity scene long presented as the finale to Concord High School’s annual Christmas Spectacular violated the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The ruling brings a tentative end to a contentious legal battle that began as far back as September 2015.
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People, Groups and Organization News: Free Speech, World Trade Organization, Children, Target Boycott, Obamacare, Travel Ban

Wisconsin photographer, blogger tied up by law that would also force writer to work for Trump
Alliance Defending Freedom
March 7, 2017
Alliance Defending Freedom attorneys representing a photographer and blogger in Madison filed suit against city and state officials in a Wisconsin court Tuesday. The lawsuit challenges a sweeping local ordinance and a state law that force commissioned creative professionals to promote messages that violate their beliefs.
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WTO Disproportionately Targets U.S. Trade Enforcement Laws
Alliance for American Manufacturing
March 1, 2017
By overstepping its mandate and disproportionately targeting America’s trade enforcement laws, the World Trade Organization (WTO) is threatening the United States’ ability to protect manufacturers and workers from unfair trade, according to a new white paper distributed by the Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM).
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U.S. Presidents Join Gen. Colin Powell and Mrs. Alma Powell to Urge Americans to Recommit to Kids
America's Promise Alliance
March 2, 2017
America’s Promise Alliance, the nation’s largest network dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth, will commemorate its 20th Anniversary with Recommit to Kids | The Summit for America’s Future, a daylong event to refocus the nation on issues concerning children and youth.

Former U.S. Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H. W. Bush and Jimmy Carter have signed on as honorary co-hosts of the Summit, along with America’s Promise Alliance’s Founding Chair Gen. Colin Powell and Chair Mrs. Alma Powell, urging every American to recommit to kids. The Summit will be held at New York City’s Marriott Marquis on April 18 and will feature prominent leaders from the business, philanthropic, nonprofit, government, education and faith communities.
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AFA Target boycott crashes corporate earnings
American Family Association
March 1, 2017
AFA's 1.4 million supporters are dealing a crippling blow to Target over their dangerous bathroom policy. The Target boycott, launched in April 2016, is causing a significant drop in foot traffic to the store. Effects of the boycott are clear in Target's financial report released February 28. The report indicated a dramatic drop in Target's sales and earnings during October, November, and December. This bad news for Target resulted in the company's stock value dropping 13 percent on the day of the report.
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The American Health Care Act is a Much Needed First Step in Returning Power to States
American Legislative Exchange Council
March 7, 2017
Last night, Congress introduced a bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The new legislation, titled the American Health Care Act proposes a number of actions that would preserve popular elements of the ACA while returning power to the states. Reducing the regulatory burden on states will give them the opportunity to modernize our health care system and provide better care to all Americans.
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AJC STATEMENT ON REVISED EXECUTIVE ORDER
American Jewish Committee
March 6, 2017
AJC remains concerned by President Trump’s revised executive order on immigration and refugees. While it should be noted that some of the worst features of the prior executive order have fortunately been rectified, the fact remains that the temporary suspension of admission of all refugees, the sharp reduction in the overall number of refugees that the U.S. will accept, and the blanket temporary ban on immigrants from named countries run contrary to the values our nation holds dear. Moreover, these measures do not effectively address the legitimate security threats we face.
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AJC QUESTIONS BAN ON BDS PROPONENTS ENTERING ISRAEL
American Jewish Committee
March 6, 2017
AJC is troubled by a new law, adopted by the Knesset yesterday, that will bar foreign nationals who have publicly expressed support for boycotting Israel or who work on behalf of organizations supporting the BDS (boycott, divestment, and sanctions) movement from entering Israel.
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Senate News: Obamacare, Special Counsel, Anti-semetism

“I am appreciative of what appears to be a very constructive contribution by members in the House, and while I am still reviewing the legislation and want to see a Congressional Budget Office cost analysis, this seems to be an important step in the right direction,” said Corker. “With rising premiums, lost coverage and fewer choices, it is clear that the Affordable Care Act is not working. I am glad the process is underway to put in place an alternative that works better for the American people.” -- Senator Bob Corker - (R-TN)

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Judiciary Democrats Opposed Use of Special Counsel with Democrat in White House

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U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) joined U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Rob Portman (R-OH), Bill Nelson (D-FL) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) as part of the entire U.S. Senate in urging the Trump administration to take action in response to the recent anonymous bomb threats made against Jewish Community Centers (JCCs), Jewish Day Schools, and Synagogues. In a bipartisan letter sent to Department of Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, and FBI Director James Comey, the senators stressed the importance of these centers within their communities, and offered suggestions for deterring the threats of violence.

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House News: Self-Driving Vehicles, Obamacare, Travel Ban, Ryan Zinke, Prescription Drugs, Clean Line Project, People with Disabilities

U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow and U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell called on the Trump Administration to prioritize the development and testing of connected and self-driving vehicles in the President’s proposed budget for 2018. The Members of Congress sent a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Mick Mulvaney and Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Elaine Chao urging them to include $200 million in their 2018 federal budget request for facilities designated by DOT as proving grounds for automated vehicle testing. In January, DOT designated ten sites across the country as national proving grounds, including the American Center for Mobility in Ypsilanti.

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Republicans released legislation on March 6, 2017 to repeal Obamacare.

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"The new Executive Order signed by President Trump is nothing more than an un-American Muslim ban. Sadly, this ban will make our country less safe. Instead of strengthening our security, President Trump continues to betray the values that make America a gracious nation." --Juan Vargas (D-CA, 51st)

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Ryan Zinke was confirmed as Interior Secretary.

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Greg Walden releases legislation to repeal and replace Obamacare
Greg Walden (R-OR, 2nd)
March 6, 2017
U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-Hood River), chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, today released legislation as part of House Republicans’ effort to repeal and replace Obamacare through a budget process known as reconciliation. The legislation, part of House Republicans’ American Health Care Act, creates a new and innovative Patient and State Stability Fund to help low-income Americans afford health care and to repair the damage done to state insurance markets by Obamacare. Additionally, the legislation lays out a plan to responsibly unwind Obamacare’s Medicaid expansion while prioritizing the program’s funds to the most vulnerable through a per capita allotment.
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“Obamacare is collapsing under its own weight, driving up health care costs, and limiting options for individuals and families. We made a promise to the American people to repeal this broken law and replace it with a stable transition to a better system that lowers costs, increases choices, and protects patients. That is exactly what the American Health Care Act will do." --Jackie Walorski (R-IN, 2nd)

"This bill perfectly embodies what one would expect from Trumpcare: It promises more, delivers less and neglects the old, the poor and the sick, while rewarding insurance companies, the pharmaceutical industry, and the rich with massive tax breaks. Trumpcare will make America sick again.” --Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL, 23rd) (But, if you like your doctor you can keep him)

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Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, is scheduled to meet with President Donald J. Trump on March 8, 2017, to discuss lowering prescription drug prices. Cummings will be joined by Rep. Peter Welch of Vermont, a senior Democrat on the Oversight Committee and the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Dr. Redonda G. Miller, President of The Johns Hopkins Hospital.

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Arkansas Delegation Urges Secretary Perry to Review Clean Line Project
Steve Womack (R-AR, 3rd)
March 7, 2017
“Not only are Arkansans facing the prospect of losing their property due to a decision by the federal government, but your department risks codifying into law the practice of federal eminent domain seizures. This dangerous precedent is antithetical to your distinguished record as a champion for states’ rights in the face of federal overreach,” members wrote to Secretary Perry.
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Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) re-introduced his bipartisan bill to protect people with disabilities, by ensuring they have access to vital equipment (H.R. 1361). The Congressman’s legislation, which clarifies the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) of 2008, is an important bill to secure the essential specialized power wheelchairs and related accessories relied on by people with disabilities and their families.