These are the headlines today at The Ponder News
http://thepondernews.com
SULLIVAN APPLAUDS ORDER TO EXPAND MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS AND CARE FOR VETERANS
Senator Dan Sullivan - (R - Ak)
January 10, 2018
“As an officer in the Marine Corps Reserve, I’ve personally witnessed the struggles – at times tragic – that some of our servicemen and women undergo as they search for care,” said Senator Sullivan. “It’s our obligation to pursue all of the causes and all of the factors that contribute to the scourge of veteran suicide, and bring it to an end. I am encouraged by President Trump’s announcement and decision to focus efforts on a particularly vulnerable group of servicemembers as they transition from military service to civilian life.”
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Shaheen Statement on Federal Judge’s Ruling to Block Administration’s Actions on DACA
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D - NH)
January 10, 2018
“I’m relieved by the judge’s ruling to temporarily protect DACA recipients,” said Senator Shaheen. “However, this ruling should not diminish the urgency of reaching a long-term bipartisan solution to protect Dreamers who are terrified that their lives could soon be upended. It’s been very disappointing to see an agreement held hostage in order to extract concessions for the President’s expensive, and likely ineffective, border wall. It’s imperative that President Trump and Congressional Republicans engage in good faith discussions to allow Dreamers to live without fear of deportation.”
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DACA RULING AGAINST TRUMP SHOWS JUDGES ARE BIGGEST OPPONENT TO IMMIGRATION CRACKDOWNS
Newsweek
January 10, 2018
A year into his first term, nearly every one of President Donald Trump's major actions on immigration policy has been battled in court, and a judge's ruling this week against his Deferred Action and Childhood Protection (DACA) withdrawal is just the latest legal blow to his promises for extreme reform.
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In Response to Senators’ Questions, CDC Reveals Politically Charged List of “Words To Avoid”
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
In response to a letter led by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and co-signed by U.S. Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) that called for answers regarding reports of banned words used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the upcoming budget process, CDC acknowledged that it provides guidance on words to avoid using and suggests alternative terms. For instance, in an excerpt from an official document, CDC recommends the use of the colloquial term “Obamacare” over “ACA” or “The Affordable Care Act,” the official name for the law. Schatz and the co-authors of the letter slammed the use of such guidance, which favors more politically charged language.
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Sanders Slams Trump's Border Wall Demand, Says We Must Protect Dreamers and Working Families
Senator Bernard Sanders (I - VT)
January 10, 2018
U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) questioned Sunday why President Donald Trump wants to shut down the government over an $18 billion border wall that the American people do not want and called on Congress to immediately fix the crisis the president precipitated when he ended protections for Dreamers in September.
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Rubio Presses State Department on Response to Attacks on U.S. Diplomats in Cuba
Senator Marco Rubio - (R - FL)
January 10, 2018
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations’ Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, and Global Women’s Issues, chaired a hearing entitled “Attacks on U.S. Diplomats in Cuba: Response and Oversight.” The goal of the hearing was to establish the facts surrounding the attacks on U.S. diplomats in Cuba, and conduct oversight over the State Department’s handling of the attacks.
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President Trump Pledges to Work with Chairman Roberts for an On-Time Farm Bill
Senator Pat Roberts- (R - KS)
January 10, 2018
After multiple meetings with President Donald J. Trump on issues of importance to rural America, U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, R-Kan., Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today joined the President onstage at the American Farm Bureau’s 99th annual convention in Nashville, Tenn.
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Bipartisan, Bicameral Small Business Committee Leaders Introduce Legislation Protecting Integrity of 7(a) Loan Program
Senator James E. Risch - (R - ID)
January 10, 2018
Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee Chairman Jim Risch (R-ID), House Small Business Committee Chairman Steve Chabot (R-OH) and respective Ranking Members Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Nydia Velázquez (D-NY) joined together to introduce the Small Business 7(a) Lending Oversight and Reform Act of 2018. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will increase the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) oversight authority over the 7(a) loan program.
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Senators Urge SEC, DOJ to Investigate Intel CEO’s Stock Sales Despite Chip Vulnerabilities Knowledge
Senator Jack Reed - (D - RI)
January 10, 2018
U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and John Kennedy (R-LA) have asked the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) to investigate the sale of millions of stock and options by Intel Chief Executive Officer Brian Krzanich while the company was handling concerns about security vulnerabilities in its chips, but before the information was made public. According to the Wall Street Journal: “The trade took place on Nov. 29, nearly six months after Intel was informed about the vulnerabilities, which could enable hackers to access user data in chips made by Intel and others. Mr. Krzanich sold shares and exercised stock options worth a total of $39 million, netting him nearly $25 million, according to regulatory filings made at the time.”
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Updated: Reactions to Trump Administration’s Plan to Open Coasts to Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
Lots of people reacted to Trump's decision to expand offshore drilling:
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Nelson vows to fight Trump administration's offshore oil drilling plan
Senator Bill Nelson- (D - FL)
January 10, 2018
“This plan is an assault on Florida’s economy, our national security, the will of the public and the environment. This proposal defies all common sense and I will do everything I can to defeat it.”
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KAINE JOINS BILL TO PROTECT TPS RECIPIENTS, INCLUDING SALVADORANS TARGETED BY TRUMP ADMINISTRATION THIS WEEK
Senator Tim Kaine - (D - VA)
January 10, 2018
In the wake of the Trump Administration’s decision yesterday, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine co-sponsored the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and in Emergency (SECURE) Act to protect people who were displaced by dangerous conditions in their home country and came to live in the United States under Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Kaine spoke out this week against the Trump Administration’s decision to end TPS for Salvadoran immigrants displaced by natural disasters, including thousands in Virginia. The SECURE Act would allow qualified TPS recipients to apply for legal permanent residency.
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Trump Signs EO to Expand Broadband to Rural Communities
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
After speaking at the Farmer's Convention on Monday, the President signed an executive order to expand broadband to rural communities. This executive order directs federal agencies to remove obstacles to broadband deployment and reduce barriers to investment in broadband infrastructure. Specifically, the executive order directs agencies to evaluate the effectiveness of the application process to build out broadband infrastructure on federal property and ultimately streamline and expedite the review of these requests.
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Reactions on Bi-partisan Immigration Meeting
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
Trump held a meeting with members of Congress concerning the wall, and DACA, among other issues about immigration. Below are some of the reactions from Congress:
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Afghanistan Watchdog Releases Grassley-requested Audit of Defense Department Spending
Senator Chuck Grassley - (R - IA)
January 10, 2018
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, received the results of an audit he requested in 2016, along with then-Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), from the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR). The audit is the result of conscientious oversight efforts conducted by Grassley over several years of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), specifically Task Force for Business and Stability Operations (TFBSO).
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Focus on Farmers
The Ponder News
January 10, 2018
President Trump gave a speech on Monday at the American Farm Bureau Federation convention in Nashville. The main-stream media wanted to focus on just one thing he said, (I'm sure you have all seen it on the news, about flags and the national anthem). They refused to focus on all the other stuff he said, even though the speech was nearly 40 minutes in length. What he said about the flag and the National Anthem only occurred ONCE, in a 5 second comment. That is why I refuse to give credence to the news on television. Here at The Ponder, I think it is right that we show you what you miss by watching the news on TV, and not getting your information from the sources on the internet.
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The Unpopular Truth
Wednesday, January 10, 2018
In Response to Senators’ Questions, CDC Reveals Politically Charged List of “Words To Avoid”
By Senator Brian Schatz (D - HI)
Washington, D.C. - January 10, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- In response to a letter led by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and co-signed by U.S. Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) that called for answers regarding reports of banned words used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the upcoming budget process, CDC acknowledged that it provides guidance on words to avoid using and suggests alternative terms. For instance, in an excerpt from an official document, CDC recommends the use of the colloquial term “Obamacare” over “ACA” or “The Affordable Care Act,” the official name for the law. Schatz and the co-authors of the letter slammed the use of such guidance, which favors more politically charged language.
“This is Orwellian anti-science partisanship that has no place in a government agency,” said Senator Schatz. “HHS and the CDC have an obligation to carry out the law and protect public health. They should not be engaging in partisan politics that undermine scientific progress and public faith in our government.”
“The Trump administration is turning our federal agencies into a flat earth society, encouraging staff to avoid vital words like diversity and vulnerable,” said Senator Markey. “These so-called alternative terms are as harmful as alternative facts, and we owe it to our health and science professionals to provide them with the best in policy guidance, not political rhetoric.”
“The CDC’s attempt to hide the Trump Administration’s politicization of science behind grammatical correctness is offensive,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Let us be clear: there is no reasonable explanation, linguistic or otherwise, for avoiding terms like “diversity” or “vulnerable.” To call these words overused would be laughable if the implications of avoiding their use weren’t so stunning.”
In a response to the senators’ letter, CDC Director Brenda Fitzgerald provided a style guide which directed staff to “avoid” certain words including “vulnerable,” “diversity,” and “entitlement.”
To view the CDC’s response to the senators’ letter, click here.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - January 10, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- In response to a letter led by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and co-signed by U.S. Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) that called for answers regarding reports of banned words used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the upcoming budget process, CDC acknowledged that it provides guidance on words to avoid using and suggests alternative terms. For instance, in an excerpt from an official document, CDC recommends the use of the colloquial term “Obamacare” over “ACA” or “The Affordable Care Act,” the official name for the law. Schatz and the co-authors of the letter slammed the use of such guidance, which favors more politically charged language.
“This is Orwellian anti-science partisanship that has no place in a government agency,” said Senator Schatz. “HHS and the CDC have an obligation to carry out the law and protect public health. They should not be engaging in partisan politics that undermine scientific progress and public faith in our government.”
“The Trump administration is turning our federal agencies into a flat earth society, encouraging staff to avoid vital words like diversity and vulnerable,” said Senator Markey. “These so-called alternative terms are as harmful as alternative facts, and we owe it to our health and science professionals to provide them with the best in policy guidance, not political rhetoric.”
“The CDC’s attempt to hide the Trump Administration’s politicization of science behind grammatical correctness is offensive,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Let us be clear: there is no reasonable explanation, linguistic or otherwise, for avoiding terms like “diversity” or “vulnerable.” To call these words overused would be laughable if the implications of avoiding their use weren’t so stunning.”
In a response to the senators’ letter, CDC Director Brenda Fitzgerald provided a style guide which directed staff to “avoid” certain words including “vulnerable,” “diversity,” and “entitlement.”
To view the CDC’s response to the senators’ letter, click here.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Trump Signs EO to Expand Broadband to Rural Communities
Washington, D.C. - January 10, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- After speaking at the Farmer's Convention on Monday, the President signed an executive order to expand broadband to rural communities. This executive order directs federal agencies to remove obstacles to broadband deployment and reduce barriers to investment in broadband infrastructure. Specifically, the executive order directs agencies to evaluate the effectiveness of the application process to build out broadband infrastructure on federal property and ultimately streamline and expedite the review of these requests.
The President’s executive order directs federal agencies to remove obstacles to broadband deployment and reduce barriers to investment in broadband infrastructure. Specifically, the executive order directs agencies to evaluate the effectiveness of the application process to build out broadband infrastructure on federal property and ultimately streamline and expedite the review of these requests.
Below are reactions to the action:
Senator, Joe Manchin, III - (D - WV)
“I commend President Trump for doing what he can through executive action to cut the red tape that serves as a roadblock to broadband buildout in our rural communities, but more needs to be done. Last June, I was proud to introduce the Rural Broadband Deployment Streamlining Act that makes these changes permanent because West Virginia businesses and communities need reliable broadband access to compete in the 21st century economy. I will continue to work with President Trump and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure every West Virginian has the resources they need to succeed.”
Senator Dean Heller (R - NV)
“As a strong advocate of ensuring Nevada’s rural communities have access to high-speed Internet, I am encouraged by the President’s executive action aimed at increasing access to broadband and improving connectivity in rural areas. Expanding broadband in Nevada presents unique challenges, particularly because nearly 85 percent of Nevada is owned by the federal government. That is why I welcome the President’s push to cut Washington red tape that serves as a significant barrier to broadband buildout and rural connectivity and why I introduced legislation to do exactly that. In order to compete in today’s global economy, our rural areas need quality, high-speed Internet access, so I will continue to work with the White House, the Administration, and my colleagues to promote policies that will improve broadband accessibility throughout the state.”
Rick Allen (R-GA, 12th)
“In today’s world, broadband is not a luxury, but rather a necessity for folks to compete. Every time I travel the district, Georgians tell me why they need accessible and affordable rural broadband in their homes, schools, and businesses. Since elected, I have been working tirelessly with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to get more broadband to Georgia-12. Many of my constituents reside in rural areas and have major concerns about the lack of access to broadband. Farms, businesses, and families are suffering due to lack of connectivity not only in my district, but across this nation.”
“Thanks to yesterday’s executive order, we are one step closer to reliable, affordable broadband internet service for all Americans. I want to thank President Trump and Secretary Perdue for their continued support of rural communities, and I look forward to further addressing this issue in the upcoming Farm Bill.”
Reactions are still coming in, check back for updates!
Previously at The Ponder News:
Trump Signs Executive Order to Expand Broadband to Rural Communities
Reactions on Bi-partisan Immigration Meeting
Trump held a meeting with members of Congress concerning the wall, and DACA, among other issues about immigration. Below are some of the reactions from Congress:
Senator Heidi Heitkamp - (D - ND)
“I always appreciate the opportunity to have bipartisan discussions at the White House to highlight North Dakota’s priorities, and today’s conversation was a forum to talk about the need to implement a strong border security strategy covering all of our borders and ports-of-entry – and a long-term solution for DACA recipients [DREAMers]. Border security is not just about the Southwest Border, and I’ve continued to reinforce my concerns about the need to secure the Northern Border and the role North Dakota can play in enhancing and strengthening security along all of our borders by using the innovative Unmanned Aircraft Systems technologies being developed in our state. It’s critical that we consider the needs of the Northern and maritime borders – and our airports – when developing any border security solutions.
“We must fix our country’s immigration system, and there is bipartisan agreement that those who were brought here as children should not shoulder the blame for inaction in Washington. DREAMers work in our businesses and are active members of our communities – and they help fill needed jobs and boost our local economies. Bipartisan talks have been underway for some time that I believe would provide strong border security measures while putting DREAMers on a more secure path forward in this country. ”
Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO)
“Today we had a productive meeting where we discussed the parameters of a bipartisan immigration deal, and thanks to this meeting I expect the pace of negotiations will increase.
“The President bringing Democrats and Republicans from the House and Senate together was an important step and I look forward to getting back to work with my colleagues to negotiate a bipartisan pathway forward.”
Senator Lindsey Graham - (R - SC)
“This was the most fascinating meeting I’ve been involved with in twenty plus years in politics. I very much appreciate President Trump’s attitude, demeanor, and desire to get something done that will make our nation more secure – while being fair to the Dreamers.
“President Trump has the right attitude. Now it is up to all of us in Congress to come up with a proposal that gets the job done.
“The American people overwhelmingly want better border security, a more modern immigration system, and to allow the Dreamers a new and better life. All we have to do is listen to the American people and enact their wishes. I hope and pray we can get that done.”
Senator Richard J. Durbin - (D - IL)
The President and every member of Congress in that room agreed on the urgent need to fix this DACA crisis now. Republicans laid out their four priorities, and Democrats laid out ours: the Dream Act. The next step is for bipartisan negotiators, who have already been working for months, to immediately reach an agreement that can pass both chambers and be signed into law by January 19th
Senator David Perdue (R-GA)
“President Trump, being an outsider and business guy, is driving consensus between Republicans and Democrats to fix our legal immigration system. Today’s White House meeting was to define the scope of this negotiation to include four items: solving the DACA situation, addressing border security, ending chain migration, and eliminating the outdated visa lottery. President Trump is trying to instill a sense of urgency to get something done on immigration, but this topic should not be part of funding the federal government. My personal focus continues to be on how we eliminate chain migration, which is a fundamental flaw in our current immigration policy. If any conversation about DACA is being held without that consideration, it is not going to go anywhere in the United States Senate. The first thing a DACA recipient will do if given permanent status is use chain migration laws to sponsor those who violated the law originally. Ending chain migration and eliminating the outdated visa lottery program is in our national security and economic interest. President Trump has done a great job making sure this remains a top priority in any immigration discussion.”
Reactions are still coming in, check back for updates!
Tuesday, January 9, 2018
Donnelly Calls on Senate to Act on Medical Device Tax Repeal, CHIP, Community Health Centers Funding, Opioid Crisis
By Senator Joe Donnely - (D - IN)
Washington, D.C. - January 9, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly spoke on the floor of the Senate calling for bipartisan action to address a number of pressing health care issues, including repealing the Medical Device Tax, reauthorization for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), funding for the Community Health Center Fund, and the need for more funds to combat opioid abuse and to address the shortage of treatment providers.
Donnelly said in his speech, “I strongly urge my colleagues to work with me to quickly and meaningfully address the medical device tax…
“We must reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Program – also known as CHIP – that expired in September. I have long supported the CHIP program. It provides health coverage for millions of kids, including nearly 115,000 children from Indiana…
“Like the CHIP Program, Community Health Centers have enjoyed long bipartisan support for the high-quality care that they provide our families. Also like the CHIP program, the funding for the Community Health Center expired on September 30, leaving many health centers across Indiana worried if they will have the resources they need to continue to serve Hoosiers…
“Finally, we have demonstrated a common desire to address the needs of the opioid and drug abuse crisis. It is a scourge. It took the lives of 63,000 people just in 2016… We can show our commitment to increasing access to treatment by reauthorizing the National Health Service Corps program, that expired in September.”
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - January 9, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly spoke on the floor of the Senate calling for bipartisan action to address a number of pressing health care issues, including repealing the Medical Device Tax, reauthorization for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), funding for the Community Health Center Fund, and the need for more funds to combat opioid abuse and to address the shortage of treatment providers.
Donnelly said in his speech, “I strongly urge my colleagues to work with me to quickly and meaningfully address the medical device tax…
“We must reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Program – also known as CHIP – that expired in September. I have long supported the CHIP program. It provides health coverage for millions of kids, including nearly 115,000 children from Indiana…
“Like the CHIP Program, Community Health Centers have enjoyed long bipartisan support for the high-quality care that they provide our families. Also like the CHIP program, the funding for the Community Health Center expired on September 30, leaving many health centers across Indiana worried if they will have the resources they need to continue to serve Hoosiers…
“Finally, we have demonstrated a common desire to address the needs of the opioid and drug abuse crisis. It is a scourge. It took the lives of 63,000 people just in 2016… We can show our commitment to increasing access to treatment by reauthorizing the National Health Service Corps program, that expired in September.”
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
SAFER Act Signed into Law
By Senator John Cornyn- (R - TX)
Washington, D.C. - January 9, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after President Trump signed his Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence Reporting (SAFER) Act into law. The SAFER Act reauthorizes, strengthens, and extends the Sexual Assault Forensic Reporting program to help fight the nationwide rape kit backlog.
“Victims of sexual assault shouldn’t have to live in fear while evidence that could bring their attackers to justice goes untested,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will assist in the efforts of our state and local law enforcement agencies to reduce the backlog of untested rape kits so survivors can get the justice and closure they deserve.”
The SAFER Act was introduced by Senators Cornyn, Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Dean Heller (R-NV), and Michael Bennet (D-CO). Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Rob Portman (R-OH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), John Kennedy (R-LA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) were cosponsors of the legislation. The SAFER Act also ensures pediatric forensic nurses are eligible for training, which addresses the need for pediatric sexual assault nurse examiners in responding to children suffering from abuse. A one-page summary of the bill is available here.
Sens. Cornyn and Bennet were the authors of the Sexual Assault Forensic Reporting Act, a 2013 law creating the SAFER Program which has helped law enforcement reduce the rape kit backlog through existing funds under the Debbie Smith Act. The legislation increased the amount of these funds spent on untested kits by 35 percent and allowed 5-7 percent to be used on SAFER program audits. It helps state and local law enforcement agencies address both the laboratory and storage backlogs by providing funding to conduct one-year audits of untested sexual assault evidence, which has uncovered tens of thousands of untested rape kits on shelves and in labs across the nation.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - January 9, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after President Trump signed his Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence Reporting (SAFER) Act into law. The SAFER Act reauthorizes, strengthens, and extends the Sexual Assault Forensic Reporting program to help fight the nationwide rape kit backlog.
“Victims of sexual assault shouldn’t have to live in fear while evidence that could bring their attackers to justice goes untested,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will assist in the efforts of our state and local law enforcement agencies to reduce the backlog of untested rape kits so survivors can get the justice and closure they deserve.”
The SAFER Act was introduced by Senators Cornyn, Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Dean Heller (R-NV), and Michael Bennet (D-CO). Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Rob Portman (R-OH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), John Kennedy (R-LA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) were cosponsors of the legislation. The SAFER Act also ensures pediatric forensic nurses are eligible for training, which addresses the need for pediatric sexual assault nurse examiners in responding to children suffering from abuse. A one-page summary of the bill is available here.
Sens. Cornyn and Bennet were the authors of the Sexual Assault Forensic Reporting Act, a 2013 law creating the SAFER Program which has helped law enforcement reduce the rape kit backlog through existing funds under the Debbie Smith Act. The legislation increased the amount of these funds spent on untested kits by 35 percent and allowed 5-7 percent to be used on SAFER program audits. It helps state and local law enforcement agencies address both the laboratory and storage backlogs by providing funding to conduct one-year audits of untested sexual assault evidence, which has uncovered tens of thousands of untested rape kits on shelves and in labs across the nation.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Cantwell, Markey Announce Net Neutrality Resolution Reaches 40-Vote Milestone in the Senate
By Senator Maria Cantwell - (D - WA)
Washington, D.C. - January 9, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) continued her push to protect the open internet and restore the 2015 net neutrality rules. Senator Cantwell, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA), and Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) – among others – announced that 40 senators have signed on to co-sponsor a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval that overturns the anti-consumer regulations passed in December by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai and supported by Donald Trump to end net neutrality.
At a press conference, Democrats made clear they will “force a vote” on the resolution to restore the 2015 Open Internet Order. Thirty members are needed to send the CRA to the floor for a vote and a simple majority is needed for its passage. The measure will be formally introduced after the FCC regulation has been published in the Federal Register.
“Over the last several years, the biggest job growth that we have seen in America has come from internet businesses. We are seeing an attack on that internet economy by FCC rolling back this open internet rule,” said Senator Cantwell. “We cannot allow the FCC to put a chokehold on the internet by allowing big corporations to artificially charge consumers more. The open internet rule was here for a reason. It was to protect a level playing field and to make sure no one artificially created opportunity and access by controlling the internet.”
“Last month, the FCC turned a deaf ear to millions of Americans standing up for a free and open internet and instead gutted net neutrality,” said Markey. “The anti-consumer regulations passed by the Trump administration takes away a fundamental right that ensures the internet is a diverse, dynamic and open to everyone. We can force a vote to restore net neutrality and level the playing field away from the big corporations. There will be a political price to pay for those on the wrong side of history. Momentum is on our side.”
Last month, the FCC voted to repeal the 2015 Open Internet Order, which the D.C. Circuit Court upheld in 2016. The Open Internet Order prohibited internet service providers from blocking, slowing down, or discriminating against content online. Repealing the net neutrality rules could lead to higher prices for consumers, slower internet traffic, and even blocked websites. A recent poll showed that 83 percent of Americans do not approve of the FCC action to repeal net neutrality rules.
Senators co-sponsoring the CRA resolution include Senators Cantwell, Markey, and Schumer, Ron Wyden (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Gary Peters (D-MI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Tom Udall (D-NM), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bob Casey (D-PA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Patty Murray (D-WA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Angus King (I-ME).
Related News:
Collins, King Announce Support for Bill to Protect Net Neutrality
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - January 9, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) continued her push to protect the open internet and restore the 2015 net neutrality rules. Senator Cantwell, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA), and Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) – among others – announced that 40 senators have signed on to co-sponsor a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval that overturns the anti-consumer regulations passed in December by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai and supported by Donald Trump to end net neutrality.
At a press conference, Democrats made clear they will “force a vote” on the resolution to restore the 2015 Open Internet Order. Thirty members are needed to send the CRA to the floor for a vote and a simple majority is needed for its passage. The measure will be formally introduced after the FCC regulation has been published in the Federal Register.
“Over the last several years, the biggest job growth that we have seen in America has come from internet businesses. We are seeing an attack on that internet economy by FCC rolling back this open internet rule,” said Senator Cantwell. “We cannot allow the FCC to put a chokehold on the internet by allowing big corporations to artificially charge consumers more. The open internet rule was here for a reason. It was to protect a level playing field and to make sure no one artificially created opportunity and access by controlling the internet.”
“Last month, the FCC turned a deaf ear to millions of Americans standing up for a free and open internet and instead gutted net neutrality,” said Markey. “The anti-consumer regulations passed by the Trump administration takes away a fundamental right that ensures the internet is a diverse, dynamic and open to everyone. We can force a vote to restore net neutrality and level the playing field away from the big corporations. There will be a political price to pay for those on the wrong side of history. Momentum is on our side.”
Last month, the FCC voted to repeal the 2015 Open Internet Order, which the D.C. Circuit Court upheld in 2016. The Open Internet Order prohibited internet service providers from blocking, slowing down, or discriminating against content online. Repealing the net neutrality rules could lead to higher prices for consumers, slower internet traffic, and even blocked websites. A recent poll showed that 83 percent of Americans do not approve of the FCC action to repeal net neutrality rules.
Senators co-sponsoring the CRA resolution include Senators Cantwell, Markey, and Schumer, Ron Wyden (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Gary Peters (D-MI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Tom Udall (D-NM), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bob Casey (D-PA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Patty Murray (D-WA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Angus King (I-ME).
Related News:
Collins, King Announce Support for Bill to Protect Net Neutrality
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Brown, Portman Introduce Buy American Bill to Improve Transparency, Support Manufacturing Jobs
By Senator Sherrod Brown (D - OH)
Washington, D.C. - January 9, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- In light of evidence that U.S. federal agencies have granted an excessive number of waivers to Buy American laws in the last few years, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Rob Portman (R-OH) have joined their colleagues, Sens. Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), to introduce new legislation that would establish a centralized online hub to increase transparency and ensure federal agencies prioritize the purchase of American-made goods in compliance with existing law.
Under current law, federal agencies may use domestic content waivers to Buy American laws to purchase goods or services from foreign companies only in certain circumstances, for example, when an American-made good is unavailable or will significantly increase the cost of a product. However, federal agencies overuse this waiver authority. There is currently no government-wide system tracking the use and abuse of these waivers by federal agencies.
The new BuyAmerican.gov Act would direct the General Services Administration to establish a central, publicly-available website, called BuyAmerican.gov, to collect and display information about each requested waiver to Buy American laws. This new website will allow manufacturers and other interested parties to identify contract opportunities and hold federal agencies accountable for abusing Buy American waivers.
“Taxpayer dollars should support American-made products, and our federal agencies should lead the way in promoting U.S. jobs and products,” said Brown. “American workers are the best at what they do, and our federal agencies should always look to them first when awarding government contracts.”
“We must do everything we can to protect and maximize American jobs, and that starts by ensuring that our tax dollars aren’t used to create jobs overseas. Unfortunately, in the last five years alone, U.S. federal agencies have spent $47.7 billion on goods manufactured by foreign firms, resulting in contracts and jobs lost to overseas competitors,” said Portman. “By improving transparency, the BuyAmerican.gov Act will encourage federal agencies to support American workers and American jobs by faithfully complying with Buy American law. This is a bipartisan bill that is needed now to help protect American jobs.”
In the last five years, U.S federal agencies have spent $47.7 billion on goods manufactured by foreign firms. The Department of Defense (DoD), the largest purchaser of manufactured goods in the world, has spent almost $200 billion on manufactured goods made by foreign companies since 2007. At the same time, the United States has been shedding manufacturing jobs that could have been kept in the U.S.
In addition to creating the BuyAmerican.gov website, the bipartisan bill codifies President Trump’s Buy American Executive Order and requires agencies to report on the implementation of, and compliance with, Buy American laws.
Brown and Portman have also introduced legislation that would apply Buy America rules to all federally-funded infrastructure projects.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Washington, D.C. - January 9, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- In light of evidence that U.S. federal agencies have granted an excessive number of waivers to Buy American laws in the last few years, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Rob Portman (R-OH) have joined their colleagues, Sens. Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), to introduce new legislation that would establish a centralized online hub to increase transparency and ensure federal agencies prioritize the purchase of American-made goods in compliance with existing law.
Under current law, federal agencies may use domestic content waivers to Buy American laws to purchase goods or services from foreign companies only in certain circumstances, for example, when an American-made good is unavailable or will significantly increase the cost of a product. However, federal agencies overuse this waiver authority. There is currently no government-wide system tracking the use and abuse of these waivers by federal agencies.
The new BuyAmerican.gov Act would direct the General Services Administration to establish a central, publicly-available website, called BuyAmerican.gov, to collect and display information about each requested waiver to Buy American laws. This new website will allow manufacturers and other interested parties to identify contract opportunities and hold federal agencies accountable for abusing Buy American waivers.
“Taxpayer dollars should support American-made products, and our federal agencies should lead the way in promoting U.S. jobs and products,” said Brown. “American workers are the best at what they do, and our federal agencies should always look to them first when awarding government contracts.”
“We must do everything we can to protect and maximize American jobs, and that starts by ensuring that our tax dollars aren’t used to create jobs overseas. Unfortunately, in the last five years alone, U.S. federal agencies have spent $47.7 billion on goods manufactured by foreign firms, resulting in contracts and jobs lost to overseas competitors,” said Portman. “By improving transparency, the BuyAmerican.gov Act will encourage federal agencies to support American workers and American jobs by faithfully complying with Buy American law. This is a bipartisan bill that is needed now to help protect American jobs.”
In the last five years, U.S federal agencies have spent $47.7 billion on goods manufactured by foreign firms. The Department of Defense (DoD), the largest purchaser of manufactured goods in the world, has spent almost $200 billion on manufactured goods made by foreign companies since 2007. At the same time, the United States has been shedding manufacturing jobs that could have been kept in the U.S.
In addition to creating the BuyAmerican.gov website, the bipartisan bill codifies President Trump’s Buy American Executive Order and requires agencies to report on the implementation of, and compliance with, Buy American laws.
Brown and Portman have also introduced legislation that would apply Buy America rules to all federally-funded infrastructure projects.
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
Former White House Strategist Steve Bannon Steps Down From Breitbart News Network After Public Break With Trump
It is an unfortunate turn of events that Steve Bannon feels the need to step down from his post at Breitbart. Personally, I think the President really went too far in his slamming of Bannon. As a Christian, the President is still learning how to live as Christ would have him. Slamming people you have friction with to the point of destruction when that person is supporting you over all is self-destructive and not good witness material.
While I support our President, my criticism is honest. This is very unfortunate and I wish Steve Bannon the best, with prayers of healing for all parties involved in this matter. -- Shonda Ponder, The Ponder News
Breitbart News executive chairman Stephen Bannon is resigning — unable to quell a firestorm over his remarks in a new book disparaging President Donald Trump and his eldest son.
Read more at NewsMax
While I support our President, my criticism is honest. This is very unfortunate and I wish Steve Bannon the best, with prayers of healing for all parties involved in this matter. -- Shonda Ponder, The Ponder News
Breitbart News executive chairman Stephen Bannon is resigning — unable to quell a firestorm over his remarks in a new book disparaging President Donald Trump and his eldest son.
Read more at NewsMax
Focus on Farmers
President Trump gave a speech on Monday at the American Farm Bureau Federation convention in Nashville. The main-stream media wanted to focus on just one thing he said, (I'm sure you have all seen it on the news, about flags and the national anthem). They refused to focus on all the other stuff he said, even though the speech was nearly 40 minutes in length. What he said about the flag and the National Anthem only occurred ONCE, in a 5 second comment. That is why I refuse to give credence to the news on television. Here at The Ponder, I think it is right that we show you what you miss by watching the news on TV, and not getting your information from the sources on the internet.
After the speech, Trump signed an executive order to expand broadband to rural communities.
Below are some reactions:
Senator Steve Daines (R-MT)
“Montana farmers and ranchers put food on America’s tables" said Daines. "As the President highlighted today, our rural communities are vitally important to the success of our nation. I will continue to fight for rural development, infrastructure, telehealth and other critical issues for rural Montana.”
Senator Joe Donnely - (D - IN)
“Hoosier farmers and rural communities are a critical part of Indiana, and I hope the President will address their most important concerns and priorities. During my farm bill listening sessions throughout the state last year, the agricultural issues I heard most about included the need to manage and mitigate the risks associated with farming, protecting crop insurance, expanding market and trade opportunities, supporting biofuels, and improving soil health. Farmers also talked to me about the importance of supporting rural communities in their efforts to address the opioid epidemic and supporting rural economies by developing rural broadband. These are all ideas that should be bipartisan and easy to support. I hope to work with President Trump and my colleagues on the Ag Committee to address these priorities in 2018.”
Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
“Over the last year, this Administration has made great strides in providing relief to rural Americans and our agricultural community, including the sweeping tax reform that was just signed into law, which reduces the tax burden for rural Iowans. Additionally, the President has worked to reinvigorate our economy by rolling back harmful rules and regulations, such as the burdensome Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule.
“Additionally, at the direction of the President, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity has worked to collect feedback from rural communities around the country. The priorities included in the report can play a vital role in strengthening our agricultural communities. Rural America is vital to our nation’s economy, and it’s my hope that these recommendations are turned into action for Iowans and rural communities across the nation.”
Senator Deb Fischer- (R - NE)
“The president’s remarks today illustrate once again his strong commitment to rural America and the hardworking farmers and ranchers in this country. I was happy he highlighted important policy initiatives like additional regulatory relief and signed an executive order to promote increased broadband access for agriculture. Working together, we can continue to open the door to greater prosperity for agriculture producers in Nebraska and this nation.”
Senator John Hoeven (R - ND)
“I had a good meeting with the President at the White House last week. We talked about agriculture, not only trade but the importance of a strong farm bill. Right up front, I emphasized crop insurance, so I was very pleased that the President expressed his strong support for crop insurance today during his speech to the American Farm Bureau, because it’s very important to our producers.
“The President today highlighted the importance of investing in rural America and making our communities stronger and more vibrant. He outlined the benefits of our work to provide tax and regulatory relief that enables our farmers and ranchers to grow and invest in their operations. We’ve worked hard to roll back burdensome regulations, like the Waters of the U.S. rule, which have hampered economic growth.
“We appreciate the administration’s focus on building rural infrastructure, including ensuring better internet access. As chairman of the Agriculture Appropriations Committee, I will continue our efforts to ensure that communities, regardless of zip code, have the infrastructure and services they need to provide rural residents with a high quality of life.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the President and Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to support our nation’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities, including passing a good farm bill with strong crop insurance and counter-cyclical programs to provide our producers with the tools they need to succeed. As I reminded the President last week, good farm policy benefits every American, every day with the lowest cost, highest quality food supply in the world.”
More related news:
President Trump Pledges to Work with Chairman Roberts for an On-Time Farm Bill
See more headlines at The Ponder News Web Site
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