The Unpopular Truth
Friday, February 16, 2018
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Housing, Shooting, Opioid, Medicaid, Retirement, Tax Reform, White House Security, Dreamers, Farmers, China, Budget, STEM, Infrastructure, Veterans, North Korea
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Reed Lauds Independent Effort by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director to Preserve Needed Funding Program for Affordable Rental Housing
Senator Jack Reed (D - RI)
February 14, 2018
I thank the Federal Housing Finance Agency for exercising its independent authority pursuant to the 2008 Housing and Economic Recovery Act to continue funding the Housing Trust Fund and Capital Magnet Fund.
Rubio Statement on Broward County School Shooting
Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL)
February 14, 2018
“A mass shooting at one of Florida’s schools is a day you pray will never come. Jeanette and I are devastated and saddened by today’s inexplicable tragedy at Broward County’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. We join millions of Americans in praying for the victims, their families and all the students and teachers impacted by today’s events. We are grateful to the emergency responders, law enforcement officials, nurses and doctors who assisted the victims of today’s tragedy. Over the next few hours and days we will learn more about why and how this killer carried out this carnage. My office and I remain ready to assist state and local officials and anyone impacted by this horrible tragedy.”
RASKIN, NADLER LEAD JUDICIARY DEMOCRATS IN DEMANDING REAL HEARINGS ON OPIOID CRISIS
Jamie Raskin (D-MD, 8th)
February 14, 2018
Ahead of House Judiciary Republicans’ politically divisive Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee hearing entitled “The Effect of Sanctuary City Policies on the Ability to Combat the Opioid Epidemic,” House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Vice Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and eight other House Judiciary Democrats sent a letter to Chairman Bob Goodlatte, urging him to hold a real hearing to appropriately examine the ongoing opioid epidemic in America.
REP. RASKIN URGES TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO RECONSIDER UNLAWFUL MEDICAID WORK REQUIREMENTS
Jamie Raskin (D-MD, 8th)
February 14, 2018
Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) sent a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Alex Azar today expressing his opposition to the Trump Administration’s actions that will allow, for the first time in the history of the Medicaid program, a work requirement as a condition of coverage. Rep. Raskin is deeply concerned that linking health coverage to a work requirement will undermine access to health care, and contradict the plain text and purpose of the law. Raskin joined 172 members on the letter to Azar.
Roe, Norcross Introduce Bipartisan GROW Act to Give Retirement Options to Workers
Phil Roe (R-TN, 1st)
February 14, 2018
The bipartisan GROW Act will safeguard the multiemployer pension plan system by authorizing the creation of a new type of retirement option that combines the key features of defined benefit and defined contribution plans.
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Report from Washington: Bigger Paychecks and Bonuses Across East Alabama
Mike Rogers (R-AL, 3rd)
February 14, 2018
After over 30 years of working under an outdated tax code, local businesses and folks across East Alabama and the entire country, are feeling the benefits of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
Rokita Introduces CRUMBS Act, Maximizing Tax Reform Bonuses
Todd Rokita (R-IN, 4th)
February 14, 2018
Congressman Todd Rokita introduced the "Creating Real and Useful Middle-Class Benefits and Savings" (CRUMBS) Act to make bonuses received in 2018 tax-free up to $2,500 to help lower and middle-class families. The legislation follows the passage of President Trump's tax reform, which has led to millions of Americans receiving bonuses, pay raises, and increased benefits.
RUPPERSBERGER QUESTIONS DNI ON WHITE HOUSE SECURITY CLEARANCES
Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD, 2nd)
February 14, 2018
Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger today questioned why advisers to President Trump without full security clearances have been given access to highly classified documents. The former Ranking Member of the House Intelligence Committee and Member of the Gang of Eight sent a letter to Director Of National Intelligence Dan Coats to get answers.
Reed: Trump Broke Protections for Dreamers, Time for U.S. Senate to Fix It
Senator Jack Reed (D - RI)
February 13, 2018
U.S. Senator Jack Reed is urging his Senate colleagues to come together and pass the bipartisan DREAM Act, which would allow young immigrants who have worked, studied, and served in the Armed Forces to earn lawful permanent residence and provide them with a path to American citizenship. These young people, known as Dreamers, were brought here through no fault of their own, have lived in America since they were children, built their lives here, and are American in every way except for their immigration status.
Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act Introduced in the Senate
Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD)
February 13, 2018
U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, along with seven of his Senate colleagues introduced the Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act. The bipartisan bill would protect farmers, ranchers and livestock markets from burdensome Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reporting requirements for animal waste emissions. These requirements were not intended to affect animal agriculture and instead were meant to address dangerous industrial pollution, chemical plant explosions and the release of hazardous materials into the environment.
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VIDEO: Rubio Raises Concerns About the Growing Threat Posed by China
Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL)
February 13, 2018
At a Senate Select Committee on Intelligence hearing today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) highlighted the threat posed by China’s growing influence, including their long-term multi-faceted strategy to supplant the United States internationally, and raised these concerns with Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Dan Coats and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Michael Wray.
House Passes Reichert Bill to Bring Tariff Relief to American Businesses
David G. Reichert (R-WA, 8th)
February 13, 2018
Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) led debate on the House floor on H.R. 4979, a bill to extend the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and to make technical changes to the competitive need limitations provisions of the program. The bill passed the House by a vote of 400-2.
Reichert Statement on President's FY 2019 Budget
David G. Reichert (R-WA, 8th)
February 13, 2018
“I am pleased that the President’s budget request highlights the need to strengthen our military, meet our nation’s infrastructure needs, address our national parks’ maintenance backlog, conduct life-saving medical research at the National Institutes of Health, and fight the opioid crisis," said Rep. Reichert.
ROSEN’S BIPARTISAN STEM BILLS PASS THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Jacky Rosen (D-NV, 3rd)
February 13, 2018
Congresswoman Jacky Rosen (NV-03) announced that two bipartisan bills she introduced this Congress to improve STEM education unanimously passed the House of Representatives as one combined bill. The Building Blocks of STEM Act, H.R. 3397, directs the National Science Foundation to more equitably allocate funding for research in the Discovery Research PreK-12 (DRK-12) program to studies with a focus on early childhood. The Code Like a Girl Act, H.R. 3316, creates two National Science Foundation grants to research and fund computer science programs that encourage early childhood education in STEM for girls under the age of 11. The combined bill is now awaiting action in the U.S. Senate.
RUPPERSBERGER, HULTGREN INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE LEGISLATION
Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD, 2nd)
February 13, 2018
U.S. Representatives Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger and Randy Hultgren introduced legislation to help state and local governments take advantage of low interest rates to build essential infrastructure projects. The bill restores the tax exemption for advance refunding bonds that was repealed by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed by Congress in December.
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Reed Warns President Trump’s Budget Would Be a Major Disaster for American People & U.S. Economy
Senator Jack Reed (D - RI)
February 12, 2018
This budget blueprint is a disaster. The Trump Administration is using the same phony accounting it did when it claimed that a $1.5 trillion tax bill would pay for itself or that Mexico would pay to build a border wall.
Senators Urge VA to Reimburse Veterans for Their Emergency Treatment Claims Before Recent Court Decision
Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD)
February 12, 2018
U.S. Sens. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, along with 11 of his Senate colleagues, today sent a letter to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary David Shulkin to request that the VA reimburse veterans who were billed for emergency treatment at private hospitals.
Rubio Statement on Trump Administration's Budget, Infrastructure Proposals
Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL)
February 12, 2018
"While it is Congress that funds the nation’s policy priorities, I am encouraged to see the President’s budget also support efforts to strengthen border security, combat the opioid epidemic, rebuild our military and improve health services for veterans.
QUIGLEY STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP'S FISCAL YEAR 2019 BUDGET
Mike Quigley (D-IL, 5th)
February 12, 2018
President Trump’s Fiscal Year 2019 budget proposal is as ludicrous as it is disturbing. After drastically increasing our unsustainable debt by adding $1.5 trillion in unpaid tax cuts for the wealthy, the president is doubling down on failed, far-right policies that slash Medicare, Medicaid, and a number of anti-poverty programs for the most vulnerable amongst us. With at least a half trillion in proposed cuts to Medicare and $250 billion stolen from Medicaid, President Trump has yet again turned his back on hardworking Americans and his dishonest pledge to preserve entitlement programs.
Rep. Rice Statement on President Trump’s Infrastructure Plan
Tom Rice (R-SC, 7th)
February 12, 2018
In 1991, Congress designated I-73 as a high priority project. This morning, President Trump released his infrastructure framework that I believe will finally get this project off the ground. President Trump called on Congress to draft a comprehensive infrastructure bill that will stimulate at least $1.5 trillion in new investment over the next 10 years, shorten the process for approving projects, address unmet rural infrastructure needs, empower State and local authorities, and train the American workforce of the future. There are too many regulatory barriers preventing essential infrastructure projects from moving forward, a prime example being I-73. The permitting process for I-73 began in 2004, and due to the inefficient environmental review process we just received permits over the summer. I stand ready to work on legislation that will cut through this red tape and unleash economic prosperity through critical infrastructure investment. Delivering on the Administration’s legislative framework will help build a stronger America, and I intend to take this opportunity to invest in a stronger South Carolina.
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Rogers: Liberal Media Elite Glamorizing North Korea
Mike Rogers (R-AL, 3rd)
February 12, 2018
“What the liberal media elite like CNN and The New York Times has done is sickening to me. Her brother Kim Jong-un is a murderer and his regime in its brutality forces its people to live a Stone Age existence. He threatens the world with nuclear war, starves the people in his own country and tortured American student Otto Warmbier to the point that he passed away once he was returned to the United States. Kim Yo Jong is not only a part of that cruel family, but is a part of the brutal regime. Nothing should be romanticized about her as she is an enemy,” Rogers said.
Congressman Rogers' Statement on President Trump's Proposed Budget for 2019
Harold Rogers (R-KY, 5th)
February 12, 2018
"President Trump’s proposed budget compliments the diligent work of the Bipartisan Budget Act, calling for much-needed boosts to funding for our nation’s military, border security, infrastructure, rural broadband expansion and efforts to combat the nation’s deadly opioid epidemic.
ROSEN: TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S BUDGET PROPOSAL FAILS NEVADA’S WORKING FAMILIES
Jacky Rosen (D-NV, 3rd)
February 12, 2018
“Instead of investing in Nevada’s working families, this irresponsible and harmful budget proposal leaves them behind by slashing Medicaid and making deep cuts to Medicare and Social Security, all while adding trillions to our national deficit,” said Rosen. “This budget would rob hundreds of millions from the Southern Nevada Public Lands Management Act program, which helps fund our state’s education system, water authority, and projects that protect and maintain our public lands. It eliminates key programs, such as BrandUSA and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which play a vital role supporting Nevada’s economic growth. This budget would also waste millions in taxpayer dollars to try to revive Yucca Mountain, a dangerous and reckless project that would turn Nevada into a dumping ground for nuclear waste. I will continue to fight against this Administration’s efforts to dump nuclear waste in Nevada and work across the aisle on a spending plan that supports our state’s priorities and lifts up working families.”
Rep. Roybal-Allard Statement on Homeland Security Budget
Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA, 40th)
February 12, 2018
“While I support some elements of the DHS budget request, I have strong objections to this budget’s significant increase in funding for interior immigration enforcement. Democrats will not support the continuation of ICE’s aggressive enforcement actions that have increasingly led to the arrest of individuals who pose no threat to our country or our communities, and who have called the United States home for many years or even decades. We should not be tearing these individuals away from their families and their communities. Furthermore, I believe any discussion of border security funding should be part of a larger discussion that includes protections for Dreamers and Temporary Protected Status recipients.”
Congressman Tim Ryan Statement on President Trump's Budget Proposal
Tim Ryan (D-OH, 13th)
February 12, 2018
“Until just days ago, a Republican Congress and a Republican President spent the first four months of this fiscal year stumbling through five temporary funding bills, utterly failing the most basic duty of Congress – keeping the government open. The idea that the current majority party in the House could follow through on anything even resembling regular order as it relates to setting a budget for the Federal Government is laughable. The only function the President’s budget proposal serves is to remind us how completely out of whack his priorities are for the American people. He would add over $7 trillion dollars to the national deficit over the next decade -- $984 billion in the next year alone, and stick the middle class with the bill. It is a non-starter. I stand ready to get to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on a realistic budget that properly funds our defense and important programs families rely on,” said Congressman Ryan.
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News from the Lawmakers
Reed Lauds Independent Effort by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director to Preserve Needed Funding Program for Affordable Rental Housing
Senator Jack Reed (D - RI)
February 14, 2018
I thank the Federal Housing Finance Agency for exercising its independent authority pursuant to the 2008 Housing and Economic Recovery Act to continue funding the Housing Trust Fund and Capital Magnet Fund.
Read more...
Rubio Statement on Broward County School Shooting
Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL)
February 14, 2018
“A mass shooting at one of Florida’s schools is a day you pray will never come. Jeanette and I are devastated and saddened by today’s inexplicable tragedy at Broward County’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. We join millions of Americans in praying for the victims, their families and all the students and teachers impacted by today’s events. We are grateful to the emergency responders, law enforcement officials, nurses and doctors who assisted the victims of today’s tragedy. Over the next few hours and days we will learn more about why and how this killer carried out this carnage. My office and I remain ready to assist state and local officials and anyone impacted by this horrible tragedy.”
Read more...
RASKIN, NADLER LEAD JUDICIARY DEMOCRATS IN DEMANDING REAL HEARINGS ON OPIOID CRISIS
Jamie Raskin (D-MD, 8th)
February 14, 2018
Ahead of House Judiciary Republicans’ politically divisive Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee hearing entitled “The Effect of Sanctuary City Policies on the Ability to Combat the Opioid Epidemic,” House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Vice Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and eight other House Judiciary Democrats sent a letter to Chairman Bob Goodlatte, urging him to hold a real hearing to appropriately examine the ongoing opioid epidemic in America.
Read more...
REP. RASKIN URGES TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO RECONSIDER UNLAWFUL MEDICAID WORK REQUIREMENTS
Jamie Raskin (D-MD, 8th)
February 14, 2018
Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) sent a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Alex Azar today expressing his opposition to the Trump Administration’s actions that will allow, for the first time in the history of the Medicaid program, a work requirement as a condition of coverage. Rep. Raskin is deeply concerned that linking health coverage to a work requirement will undermine access to health care, and contradict the plain text and purpose of the law. Raskin joined 172 members on the letter to Azar.
Read more...
Roe, Norcross Introduce Bipartisan GROW Act to Give Retirement Options to Workers
Phil Roe (R-TN, 1st)
February 14, 2018
The bipartisan GROW Act will safeguard the multiemployer pension plan system by authorizing the creation of a new type of retirement option that combines the key features of defined benefit and defined contribution plans.
Read more...
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Report from Washington: Bigger Paychecks and Bonuses Across East Alabama
Mike Rogers (R-AL, 3rd)
February 14, 2018
After over 30 years of working under an outdated tax code, local businesses and folks across East Alabama and the entire country, are feeling the benefits of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
Read more...
Rokita Introduces CRUMBS Act, Maximizing Tax Reform Bonuses
Todd Rokita (R-IN, 4th)
February 14, 2018
Congressman Todd Rokita introduced the "Creating Real and Useful Middle-Class Benefits and Savings" (CRUMBS) Act to make bonuses received in 2018 tax-free up to $2,500 to help lower and middle-class families. The legislation follows the passage of President Trump's tax reform, which has led to millions of Americans receiving bonuses, pay raises, and increased benefits.
Read more...
RUPPERSBERGER QUESTIONS DNI ON WHITE HOUSE SECURITY CLEARANCES
Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD, 2nd)
February 14, 2018
Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger today questioned why advisers to President Trump without full security clearances have been given access to highly classified documents. The former Ranking Member of the House Intelligence Committee and Member of the Gang of Eight sent a letter to Director Of National Intelligence Dan Coats to get answers.
Read more...
Reed: Trump Broke Protections for Dreamers, Time for U.S. Senate to Fix It
Senator Jack Reed (D - RI)
February 13, 2018
U.S. Senator Jack Reed is urging his Senate colleagues to come together and pass the bipartisan DREAM Act, which would allow young immigrants who have worked, studied, and served in the Armed Forces to earn lawful permanent residence and provide them with a path to American citizenship. These young people, known as Dreamers, were brought here through no fault of their own, have lived in America since they were children, built their lives here, and are American in every way except for their immigration status.
Read more...
Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act Introduced in the Senate
Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD)
February 13, 2018
U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, along with seven of his Senate colleagues introduced the Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act. The bipartisan bill would protect farmers, ranchers and livestock markets from burdensome Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reporting requirements for animal waste emissions. These requirements were not intended to affect animal agriculture and instead were meant to address dangerous industrial pollution, chemical plant explosions and the release of hazardous materials into the environment.
Read more...
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VIDEO: Rubio Raises Concerns About the Growing Threat Posed by China
Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL)
February 13, 2018
At a Senate Select Committee on Intelligence hearing today, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) highlighted the threat posed by China’s growing influence, including their long-term multi-faceted strategy to supplant the United States internationally, and raised these concerns with Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Dan Coats and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Michael Wray.
Read more...
House Passes Reichert Bill to Bring Tariff Relief to American Businesses
David G. Reichert (R-WA, 8th)
February 13, 2018
Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA) led debate on the House floor on H.R. 4979, a bill to extend the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and to make technical changes to the competitive need limitations provisions of the program. The bill passed the House by a vote of 400-2.
Read more...
Reichert Statement on President's FY 2019 Budget
David G. Reichert (R-WA, 8th)
February 13, 2018
“I am pleased that the President’s budget request highlights the need to strengthen our military, meet our nation’s infrastructure needs, address our national parks’ maintenance backlog, conduct life-saving medical research at the National Institutes of Health, and fight the opioid crisis," said Rep. Reichert.
Read more...
ROSEN’S BIPARTISAN STEM BILLS PASS THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Jacky Rosen (D-NV, 3rd)
February 13, 2018
Congresswoman Jacky Rosen (NV-03) announced that two bipartisan bills she introduced this Congress to improve STEM education unanimously passed the House of Representatives as one combined bill. The Building Blocks of STEM Act, H.R. 3397, directs the National Science Foundation to more equitably allocate funding for research in the Discovery Research PreK-12 (DRK-12) program to studies with a focus on early childhood. The Code Like a Girl Act, H.R. 3316, creates two National Science Foundation grants to research and fund computer science programs that encourage early childhood education in STEM for girls under the age of 11. The combined bill is now awaiting action in the U.S. Senate.
Read more...
RUPPERSBERGER, HULTGREN INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE LEGISLATION
Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD, 2nd)
February 13, 2018
U.S. Representatives Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger and Randy Hultgren introduced legislation to help state and local governments take advantage of low interest rates to build essential infrastructure projects. The bill restores the tax exemption for advance refunding bonds that was repealed by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed by Congress in December.
Read more...
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Reed Warns President Trump’s Budget Would Be a Major Disaster for American People & U.S. Economy
Senator Jack Reed (D - RI)
February 12, 2018
This budget blueprint is a disaster. The Trump Administration is using the same phony accounting it did when it claimed that a $1.5 trillion tax bill would pay for itself or that Mexico would pay to build a border wall.
Read more...
Senators Urge VA to Reimburse Veterans for Their Emergency Treatment Claims Before Recent Court Decision
Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD)
February 12, 2018
U.S. Sens. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, along with 11 of his Senate colleagues, today sent a letter to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary David Shulkin to request that the VA reimburse veterans who were billed for emergency treatment at private hospitals.
Read more...
Rubio Statement on Trump Administration's Budget, Infrastructure Proposals
Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL)
February 12, 2018
"While it is Congress that funds the nation’s policy priorities, I am encouraged to see the President’s budget also support efforts to strengthen border security, combat the opioid epidemic, rebuild our military and improve health services for veterans.
Read more...
QUIGLEY STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP'S FISCAL YEAR 2019 BUDGET
Mike Quigley (D-IL, 5th)
February 12, 2018
President Trump’s Fiscal Year 2019 budget proposal is as ludicrous as it is disturbing. After drastically increasing our unsustainable debt by adding $1.5 trillion in unpaid tax cuts for the wealthy, the president is doubling down on failed, far-right policies that slash Medicare, Medicaid, and a number of anti-poverty programs for the most vulnerable amongst us. With at least a half trillion in proposed cuts to Medicare and $250 billion stolen from Medicaid, President Trump has yet again turned his back on hardworking Americans and his dishonest pledge to preserve entitlement programs.
Read more...
Rep. Rice Statement on President Trump’s Infrastructure Plan
Tom Rice (R-SC, 7th)
February 12, 2018
In 1991, Congress designated I-73 as a high priority project. This morning, President Trump released his infrastructure framework that I believe will finally get this project off the ground. President Trump called on Congress to draft a comprehensive infrastructure bill that will stimulate at least $1.5 trillion in new investment over the next 10 years, shorten the process for approving projects, address unmet rural infrastructure needs, empower State and local authorities, and train the American workforce of the future. There are too many regulatory barriers preventing essential infrastructure projects from moving forward, a prime example being I-73. The permitting process for I-73 began in 2004, and due to the inefficient environmental review process we just received permits over the summer. I stand ready to work on legislation that will cut through this red tape and unleash economic prosperity through critical infrastructure investment. Delivering on the Administration’s legislative framework will help build a stronger America, and I intend to take this opportunity to invest in a stronger South Carolina.
Read more...
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Rogers: Liberal Media Elite Glamorizing North Korea
Mike Rogers (R-AL, 3rd)
February 12, 2018
“What the liberal media elite like CNN and The New York Times has done is sickening to me. Her brother Kim Jong-un is a murderer and his regime in its brutality forces its people to live a Stone Age existence. He threatens the world with nuclear war, starves the people in his own country and tortured American student Otto Warmbier to the point that he passed away once he was returned to the United States. Kim Yo Jong is not only a part of that cruel family, but is a part of the brutal regime. Nothing should be romanticized about her as she is an enemy,” Rogers said.
Read more...
Congressman Rogers' Statement on President Trump's Proposed Budget for 2019
Harold Rogers (R-KY, 5th)
February 12, 2018
"President Trump’s proposed budget compliments the diligent work of the Bipartisan Budget Act, calling for much-needed boosts to funding for our nation’s military, border security, infrastructure, rural broadband expansion and efforts to combat the nation’s deadly opioid epidemic.
Read more...
ROSEN: TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S BUDGET PROPOSAL FAILS NEVADA’S WORKING FAMILIES
Jacky Rosen (D-NV, 3rd)
February 12, 2018
“Instead of investing in Nevada’s working families, this irresponsible and harmful budget proposal leaves them behind by slashing Medicaid and making deep cuts to Medicare and Social Security, all while adding trillions to our national deficit,” said Rosen. “This budget would rob hundreds of millions from the Southern Nevada Public Lands Management Act program, which helps fund our state’s education system, water authority, and projects that protect and maintain our public lands. It eliminates key programs, such as BrandUSA and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which play a vital role supporting Nevada’s economic growth. This budget would also waste millions in taxpayer dollars to try to revive Yucca Mountain, a dangerous and reckless project that would turn Nevada into a dumping ground for nuclear waste. I will continue to fight against this Administration’s efforts to dump nuclear waste in Nevada and work across the aisle on a spending plan that supports our state’s priorities and lifts up working families.”
Read more...
Rep. Roybal-Allard Statement on Homeland Security Budget
Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA, 40th)
February 12, 2018
“While I support some elements of the DHS budget request, I have strong objections to this budget’s significant increase in funding for interior immigration enforcement. Democrats will not support the continuation of ICE’s aggressive enforcement actions that have increasingly led to the arrest of individuals who pose no threat to our country or our communities, and who have called the United States home for many years or even decades. We should not be tearing these individuals away from their families and their communities. Furthermore, I believe any discussion of border security funding should be part of a larger discussion that includes protections for Dreamers and Temporary Protected Status recipients.”
Read more...
Congressman Tim Ryan Statement on President Trump's Budget Proposal
Tim Ryan (D-OH, 13th)
February 12, 2018
“Until just days ago, a Republican Congress and a Republican President spent the first four months of this fiscal year stumbling through five temporary funding bills, utterly failing the most basic duty of Congress – keeping the government open. The idea that the current majority party in the House could follow through on anything even resembling regular order as it relates to setting a budget for the Federal Government is laughable. The only function the President’s budget proposal serves is to remind us how completely out of whack his priorities are for the American people. He would add over $7 trillion dollars to the national deficit over the next decade -- $984 billion in the next year alone, and stick the middle class with the bill. It is a non-starter. I stand ready to get to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on a realistic budget that properly funds our defense and important programs families rely on,” said Congressman Ryan.
Read more...
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Tuesday, February 13, 2018
Budget, Infrastructure, Nominations
Statements from the Lawmakers
On the Continuing Resolution
Senator Rand Paul (R - KY)
February 9, 2018
"Tonight, you could feel the frustration and embarrassment growing in Congress as we exposed the hypocrisy of Republicans who are joining in an unholy alliance and spending free-for-all with Democrats at the expense of the American people and our party's supposed principles. Make no mistake, I will always stand up for fiscal responsibility, regardless of which party is in power, and I will continue to call the Republican Party home to the ideas that led to Americans trusting us with government in the first place."
Pete Olson (R-TX, 22nd)
February 9, 2018
“This funding for disasters like Hurricane Harvey, which happened last August, is long overdue and critically needed. In passing this funding, Congress took an important step in to helping Texans impacted by this devastating storm recover. I want to thank my Texas colleagues and our House and Senate leadership for getting this desperately needed funding across the finish line.”
Jimmy Panetta (D-CA, 20th)
February 9, 2018
"We cannot keep governing from manufactured crisis to manufactured crisis. Right now, our constituents expect us to find common ground on a sensible solution that responsibly funds our government and protects Dreamers. Between this bill, which adds over $300 billion to the nation’s credit card, and the unpaid-for tax law, which will add billions more, Congress has now voted to add over $1 trillion to the federal deficit in just under two months. While focusing on these irresponsible plans, the Speaker of the House, unlike the Senate Majority Leader, has refused to take any action or even commit to have a fair and open debate on legislation for our Dreamers. This is not responsible governing. Republicans and Democrats must sit down and negotiate in order to pass legislation that advances the priorities of all Americans today and for future generations. This bill does not meet the values that we share on the central coast of California."
Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 9th)
February 9, 2018
“While disgusted with the incompetence and chaos with which the Republicans have governed, I voted in favor of this bipartisan, long-term budget agreement because of the hard-fought priorities within it that give our communities, servicemembers, and businesses the assurance they need that the federal resources they rely on will not run out,” said Rep. Pascrell. “This deal isn’t perfect, but it puts us on the path to responsible governing. This bill addressed critical needs for the next two years like improving our seniors’ healthcare, assisting at-risk mothers, supporting community health centers, investing in aging infrastructure, funding for the opioid and mental health epidemics, and helping the recovery and rebuilding in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
“I am mad as hell at Speaker Ryan for continually holding our Dreamers hostage to the extreme right wing of his party. This is not an issue of Right vs. Left but simply Right vs. Wrong. As time ticks towards the deadline President Trump cruelly imposed, I continue to demand Speaker Ryan put his money where his mouth is and bring the Dream Act or a bipartisan deal to the floor for a vote immediately. Dreamers are part of the fabric of our communities and embody what makes America great. Too many live in fear of being torn from their friends and families because President Trump pulled the rug out from under them and Republican leadership in Congress has failed to act. It is long past time for Congress to schedule a vote so we can act on the promise we made to them when the Dreamers came out of the shadows in good faith.”
Steve Pearce (R-NM, 2nd)
February 9, 2018
“Any piece of legislation that suspends the debt limit is simply an excuse for Congress and the government to spend at will, without regard for the consequences down the road. Just as businesses and families have a borrowing limit on their credit card, so does the federal government. By suspending the debt limit through the end of 2018, Congress is granting the government a blank check.
I did not support giving President George W. Bush a blank check. I did not support it under President Barack Obama. And I will not support it under President Donald Trump.
For this reason, I could not in good conscience vote for the fifth continuing resolution, which also sets a misguided budget for the next two years. Earlier this year, the House passed all 12 appropriations bills on time, the Senate has still refused to debate and vote on a single one. Instead of doing our job, Congress is acting without a thought-out plan. We must ensure our nation’s military has the tools and training it needs to succeed, and we have to help our fellow man in times of great need. But, we cannot be reckless.”
Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
February 9, 2018
"Republicans control the House, Senate, and Executive branch, but their inability to govern has put our country’s priorities—from military spending to the opioid crisis—in limbo for the past nine months and a fifth continuing resolution is just more of the same. I could not in good conscience vote for a bill that underfunds key programs after this Republican-controlled Congress just passed a trillion dollar tax cut for corporations.
"President Trump and Republicans in Congress tied the fate of 800,000 young Dreamers to this budget bill as a cruel bargaining chip. In less than a month, thousands of teenagers and young adults who know no other country than this will face deportation because of a crisis created by President Trump. We know the bipartisan DREAM Act has the votes to pass and for months I’ve called on Speaker Ryan to bring it to the House floor, but he’s refused and stirred a frightening uncertainty in communities nationwide. I refuse to engage in this kind of immoral negotiation which has caused so many Americans to lose faith in Washington."
Stacy Plaskett (D-Virgin Islands, At-Large)
February 9, 2018
“Early this morning, members of Congress approved a 2 year budget package that funds government and provides critical disaster relief to the hurricane affected areas including the U.S. Virgin Islands. This funding comes after long protracted discussion and substantial negotiation in both the Senate and the House. Our office is grateful for the work that Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) engaged in on our behalf with Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and the support of Governor Mapp and his team to make this happen.
“While the funding does not include the full amount or all of requests of the Virgin Islands it will help us substantially in the rebuilding efforts. We worked very hard to see that the Virgin Islands be provided with additional Medicaid funding for the territory’s urgent health needs. The islands are provided with $142 million in additional funds through September 2019, with a 100% federal match for these new funds. The measure also provides the Virgin Islands with five years of significant additional funding through a higher rate of rum excise tax revenue paid to the Virgin Islands treasury – at $13.25 per proof gallon (from $10.50).
Congresswoman Plaskett cautions the Virgin Islands government and its people that this advancement in our rebuilding needs to be taken in context with last month’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Bill. “We must be aware that the new tax laws are likely to have the unintended consequence of providing a disincentive to companies operating in the Virgin Islands due to foreign tax treatment. Additionally, there will be lost revenue to the General Fund due to reduction in individual tax brackets, along with the lack of reimbursement to the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit. Tax experts predict that those losses can range from a hundred million to hundreds of millions of dollars each tax year.”
Bruce Poliquin (R-MN, 2nd)
February 9, 2018
“As an original cosponsor and strong supporter of a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution, I have long advocated for our government to get our spending under control and for the budget process in Congress to operate the way it should, instead of floating from one temporary funding bill to the next,” said Congressman Poliquin. “But the alternative right now—shutting down the government and continuing to deprive our men and women in uniform of critically needed support—would harm Maine and would harm America.
“We must fund the government, we must fully fund our military and support our shipbuilders at BIW, we must support the fight against the horrific opioid crisis in Maine, and we must make sure our rural communities continue to have access to health care providers. It’s important for Maine that this bill passes.
“I call on all my colleagues who are concerned about spending to join me in supporting a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution to ensure a financially sustainable future for our Nation. In my first week as a member of Congress in 2015, I became an original cosponsor of the Balanced Budget Amendment to our Constitution. It is more critical now than ever before to get our spending under control and I am appreciative that so many in Congress are now finally concerned about this serious problem.”
Bill Posey (R-FL, 8th)
February 9, 2018
“The budget process is clearly broken. The House of Representatives passed all of its appropriations bills in September. Yet, even with last month’s short-term extension, the Senate still won’t act to bring those bills to a vote. Each continuing resolution is an admission of failure to do the job right. Waiting for the eleventh hour to consider a short-term, must pass funding bill is no way to run the government. It’s unfair to American families, workers and our children and grandchildren who will inherit these important issues that Washington refuses to deal with today.”
David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 9, 2018
“The bipartisan budget agreement reached by Senate leaders this week is a long-awaited step to address a number of outstanding funding priorities. It fulfills the fundamental obligation of Congress to keep the government open and paves the way for the delayed passage of our twelve appropriations bills. For too long, Congress has lurched from crisis to crisis, passing short-term spending patches but failing to address the sequestration-level spending caps that hobble economic investments, threaten our national security, and make realistic budgeting impossible.
In addition to making dollar for dollar increases in the defense and non-defense budgets above sequestration levels, this agreement contains much-needed relief for millions of families still recovering from natural disasters—including $125 million for ongoing Hurricane Matthew recovery efforts in North Carolina. It also reaffirms our commitment to fight the opioid crisis, secures billions to improve our nation’s infrastructure, and makes critical investments in our nation’s veterans, healthcare, and education programs.
Unfortunately, Republican leadership in the House has done nothing to advance bipartisan legislation to protect the hundreds of thousands of Dreamers facing uncertainty thanks to President Trump. His decision to rescind the DACA program, and then blow up the bipartisan proposal to fix the problem that he created, forced Dreamers squarely in the middle of the shutdown battle. What’s worse, the President has yet to learn his lesson, just this week calling for another government shutdown to advance his mass-deportation agenda.
My colleagues in the Senate have received assurances by Majority Leader McConnell of an imminent vote that includes DACA, but Speaker Ryan has continued to cater to the extreme wings of his caucus, lacking the political courage to put legislation on the floor. His promise to only put a bill on the floor that President Trump publicly supports is particularly disgraceful. No Speaker should yield our legislative prerogative to the President, particularly this President on this issue. Without assurances in the House similar to those given in the Senate, I cannot vote to support this budget package and let Republican leadership once again kowtow to a President who believes his power cannot be checked.”
On Trump's Budget Proposal
Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ, 1st)
February 12, 2018
“The budget proposed today by the Trump Administration would hurt rural communities, veterans, and seniors,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “Rural America needs more tools, not less, to be a part of the economic recovery and create new jobs. This budget slashes the few tools that rural communities depend on to develop, attract, and retain a strong workforce and good jobs. This budget breaks a promise to Rural America, by making jobs, affordable education, and health care harder to access for working families.”
The budget proposal eliminates or reduces the following programs:
The Rural Business and Cooperative Service
The Economic Development Administration
The Manufacturing Extension Partnership
Community Development Block Grants
Rural Water and Wastewater Grants
Indian Community Development Block Grant
Rural Economic Development Program
Essential Air Service, critical to businesses in rural communities
Reimbursement for rural health care providers
Native American Housing Block Grants
Medicare and Medicaid
Veterans programs and services
“We must work together in a bipartisan way to ensure every American has the opportunity to compete for good jobs in the 21st century and that we keep our promises to our seniors and veterans."
Steve Pearce (R-NM, 2nd)
February 13, 2018
“It is imperative that we come together to establish a balanced and sustainable budget. The American people deserve certainty. Creating ten-year spending projects with the goal of reducing our crushing debt and deficit is critical to the future success of our nation.
There is much to be encouraged by in this request. The White House remains committed to rebuilding our nation’s military and defenses, it continues to prioritize the reduction of burdensome and duplicative regulations, it supports New Mexico’s federal facilities, and it strives to make a real dent in our nation’s ever-growing debts.
At the same time, this proposal is not perfect. There are several areas of the proposal that will need to be examined in greater depth to ensure that, as a nation, we are taking appropriate steps to solving our nation’s budget crisis, while also meeting our commitments to the American people. Keep in mind, however, the President’s budget proposal today is just that – a suggestion of priorities for Congress to consider while establishing the spending plan for the upcoming year. I look forward to building off the proposal put out by the President today, and working with my colleagues in Congress in setting a course that will protect and support our New Mexico communities.”
Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
February 12, 2018
"President Trump’s budget proposal spells disaster for rural states like Maine and demonstrates how out of touch his Administration is with the needs of the country. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’ll fight the Trump Administration’s proposal to eliminate so many programs critical to Maine, including low-income heating assistance, Community Development Block Grants, and rural air service. And I will work to ensure his proposals to decimate the ACA, Medicaid, and Medicare, while jeopardizing food assistance for families, do not move forward. With a nearly 30 percent cut to essential non-defense discretionary programs coming after a huge corporate tax cut, President Trump has sent a statement to working Americans that their needs aren’t even on his radar."
Mark Pocan (D-WI, 2nd)
February 12, 2018
“The Trump Administration’s budget is an attack on the very Americans President Trump promised to serve and it undermines the values we share as a nation. Rather than support an economy that strengthens the middle class, the promise of a safe and secure retirement, and the idea that every American should have access to lifesaving care, the Trump budget attacks programs that everyday Americans rely upon. We should make critical investments in health, education, and workforce development for the American people, not gut resources that allow millions of hardworking Americans to get ahead.
“From dangerous cuts to Medicare and Social Security, to slashing funding for education, housing, and workforce training and protection programs, the Trump budget will have serious consequences for American families. And while Republicans will hide behind the same old talking points of fiscal responsibility and hard choices, it is clear that President Trump and Republicans are engaging in a coordinated effort to further enrich the wealthy at the expense of the middle class. For months, President Trump advocated for massive tax breaks for the wealthy and corporations, and today’s budget further reflects that he is not working in the interests of the middle class, workers, students, seniors, and the poor.”
Bruce Poliquin (R-MN, 2nd)
February 12, 2018
“I am very appreciative that members of both parties are now finally expressing concerns about our government’s spending,” said Congressman Poliquin. “I call on all my colleagues who are concerned about spending to join me in supporting a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution to ensure a financially sustainable future for our Nation. It is more critical now than ever before to get our spending under control and I am appreciative that so many in Congress are now finally concerned about this serious problem.
“As I begin reviewing the details of the White House’s budget request, I’m pleased it demonstrates our Nation’s commitment to strengthening national security and making sure our Armed Forces have the support they need.
“In addition, the White House has clearly signaled that infrastructure investment will be a primary focus in the coming year. Maine is third in the nation for needed infrastructure improvements, as many families, communities and small businesses in our State know too well. From needed roads and bridges repairs to critically important development in broadband access, there is a lot of work to be done for Maine on this front that I will be pushing for in the upcoming budget process.
“As I have said before, we must make sure we maintain support for programs and agencies that that serve our families and communities and help protect our environment. Specifically, I remain strongly supportive of funding for programs such as LIHEAP, which provides critical support for our Maine families in winter; Community Development Block Grants, which support multiple local programs in our State such as ‘Meals-on-Wheels’; and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, delivering family programming and also serving an important role with its emergency alert system; among others. As Congress begins its work in the coming months on the federal budget, I will continue to push for continued support for these and other programs and agencies that do good for Maine families.
“I remain concerned about drastic reductions in support for important environmental programs, policies and services, such as:
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and their specific sea grants
Funding for Acadia National Park
Maintaining clean drinking water infrastructure and waste water infrastructure
Superfund
Maine Healthy Beaches Program
National Estuary Program, and
Continued lead remediation efforts in Maine
“One of the most important things Congress must focus on in the coming months is completing the budget process the way it is supposed to be done: passing our appropriations bills in the House and the Senate and working together to reduce spending and make spending adjustments where they are needed. The House got this done last year and I am hopeful all of my colleagues in both chambers can get it done in the coming months.
“As I continue to review the White House’s request, I remain focused on working across the aisle to protect Seniors’ earned Social Security benefits, growing Maine jobs, fighting illegal trade, standing up for our Veterans, combating the opioid epidemic, and working every day for our Maine families.”
David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 12, 2018
“After blowing up our nation’s debt with a $1.5 trillion tax cut for the wealthy, the Trump administration is determined to further undermine our nation’s middle class and stifle upward mobility – this time by attempting to gut critical economic investments, Medicare and Medicaid, and other human capital programs to pay for a foolhardy $18 billion border wall that the American public continues to oppose. Our nation’s budget is a moral document, and the Trump budget is further evidence of a morally bankrupt Administration.”
On Trump's Infrastructure Plan
Senator David Perdue (R-GA)
February 12, 2018
“When he was elected, President Trump said job one was growing the economy. In 2017, he focused on reducing regulations, unleashing our energy potential, and cutting taxes. In 2018, President Trump wants to move to immigration, trade, and infrastructure. He is now beginning to rebuild our nation’s infrastructure. We need a smart approach to prioritize and leverage significant economic development projects like they do in the real world. We need to streamline federal, state, and local cooperation and remove regulatory roadblocks so we can get the greatest return on investment for taxpayers. In Georgia, we saw this approach in action when the I-85 bridge collapsed and was repaired a month ahead of schedule. We need to replicate that efficiency on a larger scale so we can increase productivity and ultimately update our nation’s infrastructure network to support additional growth.”
Senator Rob Portman (R - OH)
February 12, 2018
“The president’s infrastructure proposal is a good starting point for discussion and I’m hopeful both parties will work together on this issue. By rebuilding our aging infrastructure and improving job training programs targeted toward in-demand infrastructure-related jobs, we have a great opportunity to further strengthen our economy. I am also glad to see the administration is making infrastructure permitting reform a priority. I’ve led efforts in the Senate to streamline our permitting process, working to enact FAST-41 so we can rebuild our infrastructure more quickly. With a permitting process that makes sense and operates efficiently, we can put more people back to work, improve our infrastructure, and better protect the environment. I look forward to working with the administration and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to develop legislation on these issues in the coming months.”
Portman has led efforts in Washington to streamline the federal permitting process. Recently, the Trump administration has begun to use the tools authorized by Portman’s Federal Permitting Improvement Act, which helps streamline the federal infrastructure permitting process to boost our economy and create jobs. The bill was enacted into law last Congress as Title 41 of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41). Two weeks ago, the Trump Administration and the state of Louisiana entered into the first memorandum of understanding between the federal government and a state to facilitate the infrastructure permitting process for a project covered by this new law. FAST-41 requires that one agency serve as the lead agency for covered projects; all agencies involved in covered projects develop a coordinated permitting timeline at the start of the process; and agencies post the permitting timeline and updates to it on an online Permitting Dashboard throughout the permitting process for each covered project. Last September, Portman chaired a Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) hearing on how permitting reform, like FAST-41, will create good-paying jobs across the country.
Steve Pearce (R-NM, 2nd)
February 13, 2018
“As a state vastly comprised of rural communities, we understand just how important infrastructure projects are to improve the livelihoods of people, families, and businesses in our State. It is vital for the safety and productivity of New Mexico that Congress looks to reform how we currently fund and complete infrastructure projects. New Mexico will greatly benefit from any positive improvements to infrastructure. At the same time, our nation faces extreme budget pressures. Any plan must be one that can work to improve and modernize the nation’s infrastructure without driving the United States into further debt. I look forward to working with the Administration and my colleagues in Congress to making the essential reforms to the nation’s infrastructure projects that will benefit New Mexico.”
Nancy Pelosi (D-CA, 12th)
February 12, 2018
“The budget is a statement of our values, but the President’s brutal collection of broken promises and staggering cuts shows he does not value the future of seniors, children and working families. After robbing from our children’s futures to enrich corporations and the wealthiest with the GOP tax scam, the White House budget is purpose-built to compound the cruelty. The President’s tired insistence on ripping away the promise of quality, affordable health care and his cruel focus on slashing vital investments in families’ economic security will dangerously hollow out our nation’s strength.
“After a full year of empty boasts, the President has finally unveiled a puny infrastructure scam that fully fails to meet the need in America’s communities. The Trump plan is to raise tolls on commuters, increase the burden on cities and states, sell our essential infrastructure to the whims of Wall Street, and yank away the protections that keep consumers safe and our air and water clean. At the same time, the Trump budget actually slashes billions of dollars from infrastructure investments that prevent deadly floods, connect rural communities, and create good-paying jobs across the country.
“Democrats are offering A Better Deal to Rebuild America: our bold, truly transformative $1 trillion plan to rebuild America’s broken infrastructure. Five times bigger than the Trump plan, Democrats’ agenda will create more than 16 million good-paying American jobs, unlock the economic potential of every community and bring money into the Treasury. While the White House and Republicans in Congress shamefully try to weaken the pillars of our national strength, Democrats will continue to fight for better futures for American families.”
Mark Pocan (D-WI, 2nd)
February 12, 2018
“Reading scripted remarks and tweeting out vague promises to invest our country will not build roads and bridges – it takes public dollars to do that. Americans deserve a serious public commitment to rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, but under the Trump Administration’s plan, communities across Wisconsin won’t get the resources we need. With a comparatively paltry investment from the federal government over ten years – less than one-tenth of 1% of GDP – and no dedicated funding for rural broadband, the Administration’s plan falls far short in resources, leaving many communities behind.
“The reality is that President Trump’s plan is nothing more than an attempt to sell off public resources to Wall Street, to members of Mar-a-Lago, and to foreign investors. We need a real, comprehensive public investment that goes beyond traditional infrastructure, and covers not just our roads and bridges, but our water systems, broadband, and clean, renewable energy, as the Progressive Caucus has put forward in our 21st Century New Deal for Jobs. We need a serious plan and funding commitment that prioritizes communities most in need and creates the millions of good-paying jobs, not more empty promises.”
David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 12, 2018
“Throughout his campaign and his first year in office, President Trump made countless promises to put forward a bold plan to put Americans to work repairing and modernizing our crumbling public infrastructure. In contrast to the many issues that divided Democrats and Republicans during the last election, infrastructure stood out as an area of common ground and potential bipartisan cooperation.
Unfortunately, the President’s infrastructure plan neither makes good on his promise nor reflects any attempt at bipartisan compromise. The proposal calls for $1.5 trillion in new investment, but it shifts the overwhelming majority of the costs to states and municipalities, forcing them either to raise taxes or to sell off public assets to private investors. The President’s budget, which was released on the same day, seeks to slash existing infrastructure programs to pay for new federal investment and to gut longstanding environmental protections and labor laws that protect workers on federal projects. This is more than just a mixed message: it is an abdication of the federal government’s role as an equal partner in major public infrastructure investments, and another giveaway to private investors and corporate polluters.
The President’s plan is fundamentally flawed, but I hope it jumpstarts a constructive, bipartisan debate about how best to meet our nation’s infrastructure needs. As the Ranking Member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, I look forward to participating in this debate and advocating for sustained federal investments in our roads, bridges, railways, transit systems, housing stock, and broadband networks. Democrats have put forward a $1 trillion plan that would revitalize our crumbling infrastructure and create more than 16 million high-quality jobs. If President Trump is serious about delivering on his promise, I encourage him and our Republican colleagues to ensure that any infrastructure legislation includes these ideas.”
On the Nominations of Eric Tostrud, Nancy Brasel to U.S. District Court of Minnesota
Erik Paulsen (R-MN, 3rd)
February 12, 2018
“Minnesotans will be reassured that they will be represented by two sound, reasoned, and experienced legal minds on the federal bench.
“Eric Tostrud’s temperament, intelligence, and firm grasp and expertise on a wide range of complex issues will make him an exceptional judge. Judge Nancy Brasel’s experience as a federal prosecutor and Hennepin County District Court judge will serve her well in her new role.”
On Trump Administration Proposed USDA Budget
Chellie Pingree (D-ME, 1st)
February 12, 2018
Rural America deserves a better budget. By cutting essential programs for rural businesses, housing, and more, this proposal severely weakens USDA Rural Development’s ability to support rural communities. I also have many questions about the Administration's alarming SNAP proposal, which would terminate SNAP nutrition education and make it harder for recipients to access a wide variety of healthy foods.
I am concerned by how farmers would fare under the proposed budget due to the reductions in funding for important conservation programs and farm loans. And while I am glad to see a funding increase for the National Organic Program to improve enforcement of the organic label, I’m troubled by the way this budget simultaneously suggests cutting other programs that support two of the fastest-growing agricultural markets—organic and local food.
In so many ways, this proposed budget for USDA—with its nearly 25 percent cut to discretionary programs—looks much like the damaging plan that the Administration put forth last year. Thankfully, the House Appropriations Committee worked in a bipartisan way to restore much of that funding in legislation it passed through the Committee last year, and I am optimistic we can do so again.
News from the Lawmakers
Trump Administration continues support of Pittenger national security efforts
Robert Pittenger (R-NC, 9th)
February 12, 2018
The Trump Administration continued strong support for two of Congressman Robert Pittenger’s signature national security efforts: strengthening review of foreign investments that threaten national security, and targeting sources of terrorism financing.
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Pittenger: Samaritan's Purse VP "perfect choice" for U.N. role
Robert Pittenger (R-NC, 9th)
February 12, 2018
Ken Isaacs has dedicated his life to serving the least, the forgotten, and the unwanted. He has served survivors of the Rwandan genocide, assisted Syrian refugees, and led relief efforts in dozens of countries including Liberia, Somalia, Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
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ICYMI: Reps. Price and Lowenthal Lead Effort to Promote Sustainability in Infrastructure
David Price (D-NC, 4th)
February 13, 2018
Yesterday, the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) released its Sustainable Infrastructure Proposal, led by Representatives David Price (D-NC) and Alan Lowenthal (D-CA). The document serves as a blueprint for smart, environmentally sustainable infrastructure investment. The proposal stands in stark contrast to the recently released Trump Administration infrastructure plan that eviscerates core environmental safeguards, fails to meaningfully incorporate forward-looking sustainability and resiliency initiatives, and falls far short of the robust direct federal investment necessary to rebuild our crumbling infrastructure. The vast majority of Americans know that we can build and modernize infrastructure while keeping environment and public health protections in place. They expect us to do both, and that is what SEEC’s proposal is all about.
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Monday, February 12, 2018
Budget, Tariffs, Heart, Disaster Aid
News from the Lawmakers
Rep. Nadler Statement on Vote Against Senate Budget Deal
Jerrold Nadler (D-NY, 10th)
February 9, 2018
"Early this morning, I voted no on the short term spending bill and the budget deal because Speaker Ryan failed to make a sufficient commitment to bring up a bipartisan bill to protect Dreamers from deportation. The bill Congress passed a few hours ago included several Democratic priorities about which I care deeply, including parity in lifting the budget caps and an extension of the debt limit, funding for Community Health Centers and CHIP, and long overdue disaster aid for Puerto Rico and others.
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Neal, Pascrell Introduce Bipartisan Tariff Relief Legislation to Support American Workers and U.S. Economic Competitiveness
Richard E. Neal (D-MA, 1st)
February 8, 2018
Ways and Means Ranking Member Richard Neal (D-MA) and Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) introduced H.R. 4979, bipartisan legislation that renews the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program for three years. The United States’ oldest and largest trade preference program, GSP provides targeted tariff relief while supporting American workers and businesses.
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Newhouse Statement on No Vote for Budget Package
Dan Newhouse (R WA, 4th)
February 8, 2018
“The legislation that was agreed to in the House and the Senate essentially writes a blank check to enable the federal government to continue to accumulate debt. I have been a vocal proponent of addressing the federal government’s out-of-control spending, and as the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff warned, our growing debt is the greatest threat to our national security. We must find ways to rein in our national debt,” said Rep. Newhouse. “The people of the 4th Congressional District demand better and expect their representatives to promote fiscal responsibility, not advance policies that borrow over $1 million a minute.
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Noem: Know Your Heart
Kristi Noem (R-South Dakota)
February 9, 2018
Never underestimate the power of your story. Earlier this year, Aletha Maki visited our Washington, D.C., office from Rapid City. Her granddaughter had been diagnosed with high cholesterol at age two, a condition brought on, the family learned, by a genetic disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia (or FH). Once diagnosed, the disease is manageable. But 90 percent of those with FH are unaware, and therefore, go untreated.
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Norcross Condemns Shutdown, Funding Fiasco, Trumpocracy
Donald Norcross (D-NJ, 1st)
February 9, 2018
“Americans want and deserve higher wages, great schools, safe neighborhoods and a secure nation. Instead, they’re getting Trumpocracy.
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Senate passes $90 billion disaster aid package
Senator Bill Nelson (D - FL)
February 9, 2018
The U.S. Senate today approved a massive two-year government spending bill that includes, among other things, $89.3 billion in disaster assistance to help areas, such as Florida and Puerto Rico, recover from the devastating 2017 hurricanes.
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Sunday, February 11, 2018
John Kelly, Banking, South Korea and Budget
News from the Lawmakers
MCCOLLUM CALLS FOR TRUMP TO FIRE WHITE HOUSE CHIEF OF STAFF JOHN KELLY
Betty McCollum (D-MN, 4th)
“President Donald Trump’s comments today defending White House Staff Secretary Rob Porter demonstrate that the Trump-Pence White House is an environment that lacks any shred of decency and is completely at odds with the values of the American people, especially the women of this country. With his outspoken endorsement and support of accused child molester Roy Moore and now his sympathetic defense of a violent domestic abuser, it is clear that President Trump is willing to excuse the vilest forms of abuse.
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Rep. Meeks and 32 House Democrats Urge Federal Banking Agencies to Strengthen Community Reinvestment Act Rules
Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY, 5th)
Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05) led 32 other House Democrats, including members of the House Financial Services Committee, on a letter (below) to Secretary of the Treasury Steven T. Mnuchin and Comptroller of the Currency Joseph M. Otting. The letter urges the administration to prioritize the interests of underserved communities as they update federal regulations under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA).
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Meng Cosponsors Resolution to Recognize Growth and Contributions of South Korea
Grace Meng (D-NY, 6th)
With the Winter Olympics kicking off in Pyeongchang this week, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced today that she has cosponsored a bipartisan resolution (H.Res.707) that seeks to recognize the growth and transformation of South Korea, and its significant contributions to the international community.
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Statements from Newsmakers for Today
Kevin McCarthy (R-CA, 23rd)
“This has been a difficult year in our state as wildfires took more lives, burned more homes, and destroyed more communities than any of us would have imagined. Not only must we rebuild, we must also do everything in our power to make our communities even more resilient after these disasters. For months, the House has fought for disaster relief for California, and I was honored to work with my bipartisan California colleagues and pass legislation to help those affected by wildfires last December. Today, that relief has finally passed the House and Senate and will soon be signed into law by the President.
“Whether it’s for those who faced wildfires in Southern or Northern California this past year, this legislation makes sure that victims of California’s wildfires are treated exactly the same as people who faced natural disasters in states like Texas and Florida. We’ve also enacted tax relief for wildfire victims and expanded Stafford Act disaster assistance programs to include religious entities like churches, which are usually among the first on the ground helping people and saving lives.
“I am glad both sides of the political aisle came together to deliver this relief for the people of California. From Representatives Mike Thompson and Jared Huffman to Ken Calvert, Jeff Denham and Mimi Walters, we put our partisan differences aside to help our state. Though it is deeply disappointing that House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi voted against this disaster funding, we will keep working together to help the people of California get back on their feet and build stronger for the future.”
Michael T. McCaul (R-TX, 10th)
“I was proud to cast my vote today to keep our government open and fund our military. Holding this critical funding for our troops hostage is reckless and unacceptable. In fact, our Secretary of Defense James Mattis has said, “no enemy in the field has done more to harm the readiness of the U.S. military than the [military cuts we experienced under President Obama].” Thankfully, today, Congress passed a budget agreement to end the harmful sequester so we can provide assurances to our brave men and women in uniform and rebuild our military capabilities and readiness.
“This package also provides $89.3 billion in long-delayed and much needed disaster relief funding for those affected by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. The House passed legislation last December to provide those still struggling to rebuild their lives with the resources they need, but it is has been stalled in the Senate. With this bill, Texas and other impacted areas will finally receive significant federal help to rebuild, including $17.39 billion in Army Corp funding to help build our flood mitigation projects and prevent future flood disasters.
“Since day one, I have been working tirelessly to provide federal assistance to those affected by Hurricane Harvey. I am glad to see our budget agreement pass today to provide serious relief to Texans in need. We must continue to put the safety and security of the American people above all else.”
Tom McClintock (R-CA, 4th)
NO. This measure abandons any pretense of fiscal responsibility and increases federal spending caps by nearly $300 billion ($2,400 per household) over the next two years. It sets up a structure that will allow Congress to bypass its own budget rules and extends a laundry list of subsidies and special-interest tax breaks. It also suspends the debt limit for a year, for obvious reasons. It has a few silver linings: it repeals IPAB (Obamacare’s rationing board), gives the Pentagon predictable funding for the next two years and provides disaster relief.
Congress approved a massive tax reduction with my support in December. It is essential for economic growth and is already having a dramatic positive effect on wages and business expansion. However, having cut taxes, Congress has a keen responsibility to restrain spending growth – a responsibility it repudiates with this measure.
Taxes and debt are both driven by spending. Indeed, they are the same thing. Once we have spent a dollar, we’ve already decided to tax it: the only question is whether we tax it now, or borrow it now and tax it in the future. But borrowing also has serious implications for the present: government borrows from the same capital pool that would otherwise be available to loan for consumer and home purchases and business expansion. A lack of fiscal restraint now undermines the economic growth we have achieved with the tax cuts.
Interest rates are already rising, and economists warn that a sharp increase in deficits could cause markets to charge even higher rates for federal borrowing. A one percent increase in interest rates would add $200 billion to our ANNUAL borrowing costs, dwarfing the few cost-savings reforms we’ve managed to enact and threatening a debt spiral that would end in a sovereign debt crisis.
A. Donald McEachin (D VA, 4th)
“Early this morning, as I voted I was genuinely conflicted. I felt I was left no satisfactory option with the budget deal put before the House of Representatives.
“I was pleased to see that this bill created overdue investments in important services and programs that will help my constituents – and millions of other hardworking Americans. I am pleased to see rural health programs and other very needed domestic plans pass. However, I had made a commitment to DREAMers who are still left without a resolution. These young people were brought to this country as children and have contributed to the economy and betterment of our communities.
“The DACA program has wide bipartisan support, and we were only in this impossible situation because the Speaker refuses to bring a clean DACA bill to the Floor. I call on the Speaker to bring the DACA program up for a clean vote, not as part of an immigration bill that must have the President's stamp of approval before we can even discuss or debate. I believe in the important programs in last night's bill, but I also believe we owe these young people to stand by our word.”
Patrick T. McHenry (R-NC, 10th)
"In the last decade we’ve seen the growth of radical Islamic terrorism and the continued rise of anti-American regimes in Russia and North Korea. Yet—as the world has become an increasingly dangerous place—we’ve failed to properly provide for our military. With passage of this budget agreement, we’ve begun to change that.
“General Mattis made clear the increased defense funding in this package is necessary to repair our military and ensure our troops have the resources they need. By passing this budget agreement we are standing with President Trump and fulfilling our shared commitment to strengthening our military and keeping Americans safe.”
Martha McSally (R-AZ, 2nd)
“Today I voted with President Trump and Secretary Mattis to halt sequestration and increase defense spending. My vote is for our men and women in uniform who are relying on this boost in defense resources to carry out their mission and to keep us safe. Eight years’ worth of anemic defense budgets and neglect under President Obama’s defense sequester have thrown our military into a full-blown readiness crisis—and Secretary Mattis has made it very clear that, unless we pass a budget and fund the troops they will not have the resources to maintain their operations and deter war. That’s why, from the outset, I demanded that this bill include $700 billion this year and $716 billion next year for our troops to fulfill our military’s request—and it does.
This bill also dismantles another pillar of Obamacare: The ‘Independent Payment Advisory Board’—also known as the Death Panels and tasked with rationing Medicare.
We cannot hold our military hostage while we tackle other long-term spending and move towards fiscal responsibility. This landmark increase in defense spending will finally start to give our troops what they need to keep us safe.”
Mark Meadows (R-NC, 11th)
“Congress failed to get its fiscal house in order by passing a Budget Agreement that raises the Budget Control Caps by $300 billion, suspends the debt ceiling, and extends several other expensive spending provisions. For months, several of my colleagues and I urged Congressional leadership to work toward a long-term, responsible budget that gives our armed forces the funding and stability they deserve. I voted several times in the past year to honor that promise to our service members. And unfortunately, while this Budget Agreement provides a needed investment in our nation’s military, that investment comes with a heavy burden that our children and grandchildren will be strapped with.
I want to fund our military, but at what cost? Should we bankrupt our country in the process? Estimates suggest this bill will likely increase government spending by $1.5 trillion. This is not budgeting. I’m profoundly disappointed.
When I ran for Congress, I promised the people of Western North Carolina that I would fight to rein in Washington’s addiction to spending. This budget fails to do that. This doesn’t represent the promise I gave to my voters, and I suspect it isn’t what many of my colleagues promised their constituents, either.
At some point, Washington has to get serious about stopping this before it’s too late. I’m very disappointed in today’s result, but I maintain my commitment to fighting for the kind of fiscal responsibility that can sustain our country for decades to come. And I’m committed to fighting for the day when we will do better.”
Gwen Moore (D-WI, 4th)
“After scrambling in utter chaos to end their second shutdown in a month, the Republican majority passed a budget agreement in the early hours of this morning. This bill paves the way for an omnibus spending bill, funds community health centers, disaster relief, the opioid epidemic, veterans, and rural broadband. Although Democrats have long fought for the inclusion of these provisions in this bill, at the end of the day, it simply wasn’t enough to overlook what was excluded.
“As I contemplated how to cast my vote today, I thought of the strength and courage of Wisconsin DREAMers like Valeria Ruiz Lira and Alejandra Gonzalez. Like many DREAMers, Valeria and Alejandra have called the United States home for most of their lives. Yet, they – as well as hundreds of thousands across the country – have been forced to live in a constant state of uncertainty as congressional Republicans embrace President Trump’s bigoted policies and deny our DREAMers of their basic humanity. Despite such hateful opposition, these young men and women remain resolute. They are undocumented and unafraid. And as long as I’m in Congress, I’ll make sure they’re not alone in this fight.
“Speaker Ryan’s continued failure to step up and schedule a vote to protect DREAMers is nothing short of shameful. As the March 5 deadline to pass permanent protections for DREAMers approaches, I will continue to fight for a DACA deal with great force and conviction. Democrats have worked hard to put American families first at every turn. Now, it is time for Republicans to follow suit and remember the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who taught us, ‘The time is always right to do what’s right.’”
Seth Moulton (D-MA, 6th)
“Budgeting month to month and governing crisis to crisis is no way to run anything, let alone the United States of America. Republican leadership, if you can even call it that right now, is an embarrassment. America is better than this.
“I voted against this deal because it shortchanged all the things we should be coming together, as both Democrats and Republicans, to accomplish for the people we represent. Rather than play politics with funding our government, pitting one group against another, we should make strong investments in our future.
“A good deal supports our economy. Just look at the reaction of the stock market over the past week as Republicans careened towards another shutdown. Of course most Americans don’t have stocks, but rely on all the other investments we make: in education, health care, and in our local communities, especially after natural disasters. These things must be adequately funded.
“A good deal supports our troops. As general after general has told us, short-term deals hobble our Pentagon planners and endanger our military. Only with a predictable budget, that is adequately funded, can we make the investments in our troops and technology to meet the latest threats.
“A good deal invests in our future. At times like this, most talk focuses on government spending. But equally important is the other half of the equation because we ultimately can’t pay our troops, pay our Medicare bills, and invest in our future without the funds to do so. This is why the Republican tax cut for the rich is so dangerous for us all: it triples the deficit. And we can’t afford that. This deal makes it even worse.
“And don’t sell America short–don’t think for a second that we can’t do these things and also take care of DREAMers, whom overwhelming majorities of Americans want to support. These innocent kids grew up in America, only know this country, and deserve some certainty for their futures. They serve in our military and are our kids’ friends in school. They, too, deserve a chance at the American Dream.
“Yesterday, even Secretary Mattis, President Trump’s own Secretary of Defense, came out in support of DREAMers in our military, promising they won’t get deported. If someone inside the Trump Administration can stand strong, so should we. What Democrats are asking from Speaker Ryan is so simple: Just do your job and allow the House of Representatives to vote on an immigration plan. Vote how you want, but give us that chance. Give these innocent kids that chance. It’s the very least we should do.
“For all these reasons, I voted against this inadequate deal. And for all these reasons, I’m working hard to bring new leadership to Washington. We can do better, and I feel confident that if this deal had failed, we would have moved closer to addressing the many challenges our nation faces. That is our job.”
Markwayne Mullin (R-OK, 2nd)
“Early this morning, the House passed a budget agreement to continue government operations and most importantly, end the ill effects of an underfunded military due to years of sequestration,” Mullin said. “I voted in favor of the measure—not because I liked everything that was in the bill—but because I could not turn my back on our men and women in uniform. Our President and Commander in Chief and General Mattis asked me and my colleagues to vote for the bill. Due to the uncertainty around the world and our national security risks, it is our duty to fully support our troops who are protecting all of our rights. The vote that I cast this morning reflects my unwavering commitment to support the men and women of our armed forces who put their lives on the line to protect ours.”
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Background on the Bipartisan Budget Act courtesy of House Speaker Paul Ryan (WI-01) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (KY):
It also provides almost $90 billion in emergency supplemental appropriations for disaster relief efforts for communities crippled by hurricanes in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Florida and Texas.
This agreement includes an extension of tax relief provisions that are supported by Republicans and Democrats.
Continuing Resolution & Disaster Supplemental:
Tax & Health Care Policies:
The measure also includes a package of bipartisan Medicare provisions, known as Medicare extenders, and funding for community health centers.
Saturday, February 10, 2018
Sexual Harassment, Budget,
Here are some news items from the press release pile at The Ponder News:
Concerned with Pervasive Sexual Harassment in Industries Outside the Spotlight, Senator Murray Requests Information from Trade Associations in Industries with Millions of Workers
Senator Patty Murray (D - WA)
U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), ranking Democrat on the Senate health committee, sent letters to 12 trade associations requesting information on harassment statistics. These associations represent the industries with some of the highest rates of sexual harassment reporting to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). As many people are coming forward and sharing their stories of sexual harassment and assault in the workplace, Senator Murray is working to ensure every woman and man, no matter where they work, or how much money they make, has a workplace free from harassment.
Read more...
MARCHANT VOTES TO STRENGTHEN OUR MILITARY, PROVIDE DISASTER RELIEF FOR TEXAS FAMILIES, IMPROVE MEDICARE FOR TEXAS SENIORS
Kenny Marchant (R-TX, 24th)
This important budget agreement delivers on the promise to rebuild our military, provides disaster relief to Texas communities devastated by Hurricane Harvey, improves Medicare for Texas seniors, cuts government red tape for health care providers and repeals harmful Obamacare IPAB provisions
Read more...
Concerned with Pervasive Sexual Harassment in Industries Outside the Spotlight, Senator Murray Requests Information from Trade Associations in Industries with Millions of Workers
Senator Patty Murray (D - WA)
U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), ranking Democrat on the Senate health committee, sent letters to 12 trade associations requesting information on harassment statistics. These associations represent the industries with some of the highest rates of sexual harassment reporting to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). As many people are coming forward and sharing their stories of sexual harassment and assault in the workplace, Senator Murray is working to ensure every woman and man, no matter where they work, or how much money they make, has a workplace free from harassment.
Read more...
MARCHANT VOTES TO STRENGTHEN OUR MILITARY, PROVIDE DISASTER RELIEF FOR TEXAS FAMILIES, IMPROVE MEDICARE FOR TEXAS SENIORS
Kenny Marchant (R-TX, 24th)
This important budget agreement delivers on the promise to rebuild our military, provides disaster relief to Texas communities devastated by Hurricane Harvey, improves Medicare for Texas seniors, cuts government red tape for health care providers and repeals harmful Obamacare IPAB provisions
Read more...
The Reason Donald Trump Rejected the Memo from the Democrats
On Twitter, Trump tweeted:
The Democrats sent a very political and long response memo which they knew, because of sources and methods (and more), would have to be heavily redacted, whereupon they would blame the White House for lack of transparency. Told them to re-do and send back in proper form!
Following news reports that President Trump has blocked the release of the Democratic Memo refuting claims made in the so-called Nunes Memo, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th) released the following statement:
"After viewing both House Intelligence Committee memos, I can say, without a doubt, that not releasing the Democrats' memo is a great disservice to the American people. While I cannot comment on the details contained in the Democrats' memo because the President has refused to release it, I can say that it eviscerates Mr. Nunes' claims. This politicization of intelligence and quest to discredit the brave men and women of our intelligence and law enforcement communities must stop. Mr. Nunes' and President Trump's behavior are abhorrent and dangerous."
MURPHY STATEMENT ON DEPORTATION CASE OF FARMINGTON FAMILY
Source: Senator Christopher Murphy (D - CT)
Washington, D.C. - February 10, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Chris Murphy released a statement on Friday on the deportation case of Farmington, Connecticut residents, Mr. Zhe Long “Tony” Huang and Mrs. Xiang Jin “Kris” Li. Tony and Kris, who left China to come to the United States nearly two decades ago, have been issued an order to leave the United States by February 16th. Tony and Kris are married, have no criminal records, and have two American-born children, ages 15 and 5. The couple owns a nail salon in Simsbury.
“Kris and Tony own a small business, pay their taxes, and have two children in the Farmington school system. The Trump administration’s backwards immigration policies that target families instead of dangerous criminals make us less safe. I’ve been in touch with ICE, and I will keep fighting to make sure Kris and Tony can stay at home in Connecticut with their kids.”
Related News:
Simsbury, Farmington Rally For Local Couple Facing Deportation; Application Filed for Stay
Hartford Courant
One week before they must board a plane to return to China, Zhe Long Huang and Xiang Jin Li stood in front of the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Hartford field office Friday afternoon to make their case to stay in America.
Read about it by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - February 10, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Senator Chris Murphy released a statement on Friday on the deportation case of Farmington, Connecticut residents, Mr. Zhe Long “Tony” Huang and Mrs. Xiang Jin “Kris” Li. Tony and Kris, who left China to come to the United States nearly two decades ago, have been issued an order to leave the United States by February 16th. Tony and Kris are married, have no criminal records, and have two American-born children, ages 15 and 5. The couple owns a nail salon in Simsbury.
“Kris and Tony own a small business, pay their taxes, and have two children in the Farmington school system. The Trump administration’s backwards immigration policies that target families instead of dangerous criminals make us less safe. I’ve been in touch with ICE, and I will keep fighting to make sure Kris and Tony can stay at home in Connecticut with their kids.”
Related News:
Simsbury, Farmington Rally For Local Couple Facing Deportation; Application Filed for Stay
Hartford Courant
One week before they must board a plane to return to China, Zhe Long Huang and Xiang Jin Li stood in front of the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Hartford field office Friday afternoon to make their case to stay in America.
Read about it by clicking HERE
Senator Markey Calls for Greater Scrutiny of LNG Shipments from Russia to the United States
Source: Senator Edward J.Markey (D - MA)
Washington, D.C. - February 10, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, this week sent a letter to the Departments of State and Treasury querying the agencies about potential evasion of U.S. sanctions by Russian companies. Specifically, Boston Harbor recently received a shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) that contained gas from Novatek, a U.S.-sanctioned Russian natural gas producer. The United States imposed broad-based sanctions in 2014 on Russia in response to its ongoing occupation of Crimea and destabilization of eastern Ukraine. Despite these sanctions, Novatek shipped gas partially sourced from Yamal LNG, Novatek’s LNG export facility, to Everett, Massachusetts, potentially evading sanctions by generating revenue from U.S. sales. Another shipment from Novatek to the United States is expected in the coming weeks.
“Although a gas purchase from Yamal LNG many not constitute financing as defined as under the sanctions, the purchase provides revenue to Novatek,” writes Senator Markey in his letter to Secretaries Rex Tillerson and Steven Mnuchin. “This shipment may therefore circumvent the U.S. sanctions and calls into question to what degree those sanctions are serving our broader foreign policy goals regarding Russia or require adjustment to better achieve those goals.”
A copy of Senator Markey’s letter can be found HERE.
In his letter, Senator Markey specifically asks if the most recent shipment of LNG to Everett by Novatek violates either the letter or spirit of the 2014 sanctions. He also asks if the administration is aware of other sanctioned Russian companies engaging in similar transactions where financing is prohibited, as well as if the 2014 sanctions have been effective more broadly.
Senator Markey authored the Fuels Transportation Safety Amendments Act, a law that requires the Secretary of Energy to establish minimum standards for the location, construction, and operation of any new LNG facility. The law also required the Secretary of Energy to establish minimum safety standards for existing LNG facilities, and established civil and criminal penalties for the violation of safety or financial responsibility standards.
Washington, D.C. - February 10, 2018 - (The Ponder News) -- Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, this week sent a letter to the Departments of State and Treasury querying the agencies about potential evasion of U.S. sanctions by Russian companies. Specifically, Boston Harbor recently received a shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) that contained gas from Novatek, a U.S.-sanctioned Russian natural gas producer. The United States imposed broad-based sanctions in 2014 on Russia in response to its ongoing occupation of Crimea and destabilization of eastern Ukraine. Despite these sanctions, Novatek shipped gas partially sourced from Yamal LNG, Novatek’s LNG export facility, to Everett, Massachusetts, potentially evading sanctions by generating revenue from U.S. sales. Another shipment from Novatek to the United States is expected in the coming weeks.
“Although a gas purchase from Yamal LNG many not constitute financing as defined as under the sanctions, the purchase provides revenue to Novatek,” writes Senator Markey in his letter to Secretaries Rex Tillerson and Steven Mnuchin. “This shipment may therefore circumvent the U.S. sanctions and calls into question to what degree those sanctions are serving our broader foreign policy goals regarding Russia or require adjustment to better achieve those goals.”
A copy of Senator Markey’s letter can be found HERE.
In his letter, Senator Markey specifically asks if the most recent shipment of LNG to Everett by Novatek violates either the letter or spirit of the 2014 sanctions. He also asks if the administration is aware of other sanctioned Russian companies engaging in similar transactions where financing is prohibited, as well as if the 2014 sanctions have been effective more broadly.
Senator Markey authored the Fuels Transportation Safety Amendments Act, a law that requires the Secretary of Energy to establish minimum standards for the location, construction, and operation of any new LNG facility. The law also required the Secretary of Energy to establish minimum safety standards for existing LNG facilities, and established civil and criminal penalties for the violation of safety or financial responsibility standards.
Budget Deal
The House and Senate agreed to a deal to lift budget caps on defense and domestic spending and fund the government until March 23, 2018. This legislation also includes emergency funding for disasters caused by hurricanes and wildfires.
Highlights of the budget deal:
Doug LaMalfa (R-CA, 1st)
“I’m very concerned by the government’s reckless spending, but I’m not willing to allow a prolonged shutdown to occur. There are many provisions in this bill that are very worthy of our investment. At our recent retreat, Secretary Mattis conveyed the gravity of the funding crisis our military faces after eight years of neglect. I’m happy that our armed forces and national defense will now be properly funded for the first time in recent memory. We’re also extending important health care programs, like Community Health Centers and Teaching Health Centers, which are critical to rural California. It’s past time to get wildfire victims some assistance, and this legislation finally advances disaster relief funding that’s been stuck in the Senate for months. Finally, this agreement paves the way for Congress to work on strengthening our southern border and addressing other pressing immigration concerns. I don’t like the Senate’s process and I don’t like the price tag, but this bipartisan compromise is the best option available under these circumstances.”
Doug Lamborn (R-CO, 5th)
“Our uniformed men and women should not have to worry about whether they will get paid or not as they continue to selflessly put their lives on the line for our country. That’s not to mention the critical role the defense industry Colorado’s Fifth District plays in our national security, including direct support to many critical local missions.”
Leonard Lance (R-NJ, 7th)
“The responsible vote is to keep the government open. I have always opposed governmental shutdowns. The Bipartisan Budget Act is the product of compromise – neither side got everything it wanted. But many critical priorities I have championed were included in the final product, including disaster relief funds, funding for community health centers and meeting Secretary Mattis’ request for Defense Department funding. The package also repeals Obamacare’s Independent Payment Advisory Board, a panel widely opposed by senior citizen advocacy groups. The legislation also finally secures funding for Medicaid in Puerto Rico, a project I have long advocated for alongside Resident Commissioner González-Colón. Low-cost federal health care will now continue for our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico,” said Lance after passage.
Medicaid continues to provide critical health care delivery needs for the citizens of Puerto Rico and the program is under significant financial strain as the Commonwealth recovers from Hurricane Maria. Lance and González-Colón’s teamed up to give Puerto Rico financial certainty to continue providing critical services through the Medicaid program.
Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Greg Walden also acknowledged Lance’s leadership after the vote. “Rep. Lance has been a critical voice as we worked to provide vital Medicaid resources for the people of Puerto Rico. His steadfast commitment to addressing this Medicaid cliff never wavered and relief will soon be on its way.”
Jim Langevin (D-RI, 2nd)
“After months of refusing to negotiate with Democrats, Republicans finally reached across the aisle to develop a bipartisan budget agreement that addresses many important priorities. It lifts stifling budget caps and provides the framework to develop a long-term funding bill that invests in infrastructure projects and supports our military service members, teachers, and law enforcement officers. Communities that were ravaged by hurricanes, floods and wildfires will see much needed relief to rebuild their lives. Community health centers will receive funding so patients have access to quality healthcare. Finally, this bill ensures our nation will not default on its obligations.
“Like all compromises, this bill is not perfect. Because Republicans spent five months kicking the can down the road, we will need to pass additional legislation to fully implement this framework. This agreement also does nothing to reverse the President’s $1.5 trillion tax boondoggle, which means our national debt will continue to grow. The most glaring omission, however, is the lack of protection for the hundreds of thousands of dreamers who will be forced out of the only country they’ve ever known. I’m extremely disappointed that there has been no agreement to let the majority of House members be heard by holding a vote on the Dream Act, and I will continue to call on Speaker Paul Ryan to do so.
“As I’ve said time and again, I look forward to continue working with my Republican colleagues to find real bipartisan solutions to our country’s greatest challenges.”
Rick Larsen (D-WA, 2nd)
“I am voting yes on the budget deal. It tackles important issues facing Washington’s working families such as infrastructure, the opioid crisis and ensuring the next generation has job skills they need to enter the workforce.
“Over the last year at community coffee and town hall events, opioid addiction has emerged as the number one issue people care about. It is easy to see why. More than 3,400 Washingtonians have died from an opioid overdose since 2012. While Snohomish County represents less than ten percent of the state’s population, the county accounted for almost 15 percent of all heroin-related deaths from 2012-2016. This last July, 37 overdoses occurred in the county during one week, ten of which occurred on a single day. There is no excuse for not addressing this issue. The $6 billion provides greater access for folks seeking substance abuse treatment and mental health rehabilitation.
“Since taking office, I have held 63 roundtables with veterans, where I’ve heard about the needs of the 56,000 veterans who live in Washington’s Second District. The budget will improve conditions at Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals and clinics, and provide better access to health care for those living far away from VA facilities, as many geographically-challenged veterans in my district know.
“80,000 homeless patients will still have access to critical health resources through Community Health Centers. Additionally, 5,700 children from Washington state’s Second District will continue to receive comprehensive, high-quality health care through the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Helping these vulnerable communities makes this a budget worth voting for.
“You can’t have a big league economy with little league infrastructure – and last year the United States got a D+ when it comes to infrastructure. If my son in college came home with a D+ in his calculus class, he’d be in big trouble. The $20 billion in the budget will pull this grade up, provide repairs to crumbling roads, bridges and highways, and support transit projects, all while putting folks in Washington state to work.
“If the budget deal passes, over the next several weeks Congress will need to work on the appropriations process. Through this process I will focus on further addressing the opioid epidemic, passing a robust funding bill for aviation-relation construction projects, fixing our broken immigration system and building the next generation workforce so young people have a leg up in an ever-changing global economy.”
Brenda Lawrence (D-MI, 14th)
“The White House, the Senate and the House are Republican-led, and we have now completed the second government shutdown in just one month. This is no way to run a government.
“Our nation is facing great needs on many sides and it is the responsibility of Congress to fund the government so the people receive the much needed support that they are due. While this deal is far from perfect, I’m pleased that bipartisanship was reached on a number of critical programs that Michiganders depend on, including funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program, Community Health Centers, essential Medicare programs, and foster care services. However, with all the efforts made in the bill, there are still questions left unanswered and our Dreamers simply cannot continue to be left in the cold, unsure of their future and future of their families.
“It is disappointing that the Speaker of the House refused to address the needs of the Dreamers, valued members of the American family, for a vote on the floor. With the March 5th deadline swiftly approaching, Democrats have fought hard to protect Dreamers and fix our broken immigration system. I will continue to fight for the Dreamers and to hold the Republican leadership accountable for their pledge to prioritize our Dreamers so that they can have the answers they deserve.”
Barbara Lee (D-CA 13th)
“Last night, despite controlling the White House, the House and the Senate, Republicans forced the government to shut down for the second time in three weeks. The GOP’s inability to conduct the basic function of government is appalling. Playing politics with the lives of the American people is reckless and irresponsible.
“Budgets and budget agreements are statements of our morals and values as nation. Last night, Congress could have taken a stand for community health centers, disaster relief, and DREAMers to show that America is still the land of opportunity and aide for all. Instead, this deal prioritized excessive defense spending and gave no assurances that the 800,000 undocumented youth currently living in fear would be protected. I could not in good conscience vote for this agreement. We promised these young people that we would fight for them. The time for talk is over, we simply must pass the Dream Act now.”
Jason Lewis (R-MN, 2nd)
“I ran for Congress to get the economy going again by reducing taxes, regulations, deficits and debt. A $300 billion increase in discretionary spending along with hiking the debt ceiling fails on all accounts. There is not a department or agency in the federal government that can’t tighten its belt- no serious observer believes otherwise.
“As I’ve said so many times, the way to get our fiscal house in order is real ‘shared sacrifice’, where everyone has skin in the game when it comes to budget restraint. Instead, we get more of the same DC spending profligacy- ‘I’ll increase your budget if you increase mine’. We should all remember the words of former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Admiral Michael Mullen who famously said, ‘the most significant threat to our national security is our debt.’
“Congress needs to listen.”
Michelle Grisham Lujan (D-NM, 1st)
“We certainly have a need for many important investments outlined in the bill. However, for every problem this bill solves, it creates two more and others still remain completely unaddressed. This will be the fifth continuing resolution in a row, Speaker Ryan still refuses to initiate a fair, bi-partisan process for fixing DACA, and because of the Republican tax scam, this budget blows a massive trillion dollar hole into the national debt.
“It is clear the American people on every side of the political spectrum have lost their trust and faith in Congress. If Congress continues to fail to fulfill its most basic responsibilities and work in a bi-partisan manner, how can it possibly address complex, long-term problems like the opioid crisis, climate change, immigration, poverty, the national debt, or fix our aging infrastructure? Nobody seems to be steering the wheel of the United States of America and that is leading to chaos, instability, and suffering.
“I have worked with Democrats, Republicans, senators and even the White House. We have reached important compromises to fix the DACA program, but have gotten no commitment from Speaker Ryan that our bipartisan legislation will get a debate and the vote it deserves.
“This is yet another example of how Speaker Ryan feels accountable to the most extreme anti-immigration members of his caucus.
“I cannot vote for temporary agreements that depend on empty promises of compromise down the road.
“Again, I call on Speaker Ryan and the Republican leadership to work in a productive bipartisan fashion to pass a long-term spending bill that addresses America’s most pressing issues. We can’t afford to continue letting the far-right extremists lead our government from crisis to crisis.”
Senator James Lankford (R-OK)
“This budget deal shows the American people exactly how broken our budget and appropriations process is. It does not address our runaway deficits and actually takes major steps backwards in the fight to rein in Washington’s overspending appetite. Our budget process has only worked correctly four times since 1974. We desperately need budget reform. I’m ashamed that we have passed five continuing resolutions since the end of last Fiscal Year in September. This is no way to govern.
“Today’s passage of the budget deal will do some things that should astonish all Americans. Here are just a few. First, it extends the debt ceiling until March 2019, with no reforms and no change in financial direction. Second, it removes critical spending controls that were put in place back in 2011 that were designed to keep our yearly spending in check and not allow deficit spending to grow by more than $150 billion in a year. And third, it extends several special interest tax breaks to everything from Puerto Rican rum, to Hollywood studios, to racehorses.
“While I strongly support the budgetary certainty and increased military funding that this bill provides, the long-term negative consequences of the bill are too many. The prevailing theme of debt ceiling negotiations is usually avoiding default, but lost in the conversation is how we got here in the first place, and how we can get out of the cycle of deficit spending. We must address our debt and deficit through cuts to wasteful spending, government reform, and a growing economy. Unfortunately, this bill fails to do any of those things.”
Senator John McCain (R - AZ)
“This budget deal finally makes good on our promise to provide for the men and women who so faithfully serve our nation in uniform. It lays the groundwork for appropriating the funding level authorized in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 and provides real growth in fiscal year 2019. Now the Defense Department will have the budget certainty it needs to begin the process of rebuilding the military, restoring readiness, and modernizing our forces—all of which are required to maintain America’s military edge over our adversaries in the era of renewed great power competition outlined in the new National Defense Strategy.”
Kenny Marchant (R-TX, 24th)
“This important budget agreement delivers on the promise to rebuild our military, provides disaster relief to Texas communities devastated by Hurricane Harvey, improves Medicare for Texas seniors, cuts government red tape for health care providers and repeals harmful Obamacare IPAB provisions.
“After the disastrous reductions in national security funding under the Obama Administration, we are finally equipping our armed forces with the tools needed to protect and defend our country. Along with providing for our troops, this legislation also has critical disaster relief funding for Texans whose homes and livelihoods have been crippled by Hurricane Harvey.
“This agreement included provisions to repeal Obamacare’s ‘death panels,’ known as IPAB, and incorporated legislation I introduced to improve Medicare and untangle health care providers from overregulated paperwork. By cutting government red tape and strengthening the relationship between patients and doctors, these commonsense reforms allow doctors to get back to doing what they do best – serving, treating, and healing our constituents.”
Tom Marino (R-PA, 10th)
“Today I voted to keep the federal government open and provide certainty to our military servicemembers and their families. This bill will bring the branches of our armed forces into the 21st Century and give our troops the best equipment available in their efforts to protect our freedoms. While many of my colleagues chose to vote ‘no’ on this bill, I believe that our servicemembers deserve all of the support we can provide.
“My vote was spurred by Defense Secretary James Mattis’ assessment that the U.S. military faces ‘security vulnerabilities’ because of Congress’s inability to provide long-term funding to our troops and that ‘Today’s congressional action will ensure our military can defend our way of life, preserve the promise of prosperity, and pass on the freedoms you and I enjoy to the next generation.’”. Without a solution, the military would ‘not recruit the 15,000 Army soldiers and 4,000 Air Force airmen required to fill critical manning shortages.’
“As President Reagan said, the United States must provide peace through strength. This bill will help accomplish that pursuit.”
Roger Marshall (R-KS, 1st)
“Today we delivered on our promise to our men and women in uniform, I am proud that this bill finally fully funds our military. This bipartisan budget also addressed disaster relief and recognized the severe natural disasters that Kansas faced this year. Specifically including two bills introduced by Senator Moran and myself that retroactively fix payment limits for livestock producers impacted by wildfires and blizzards. This budget agreement is far from the perfect bill but after reviewing it, I truly believe this deal has wins for Kansans.
While I continue to have concerns about our national debt and the broken federal budget process, I am pleased that we have reached a two-year budget agreement that puts an end to the vicious cycle of continuing resolutions. In the last decade the federal government has operated under a continuing resolution for a third of the time and has added more than $10 trillion to our national debt. Neither of those is sustainable or responsible. To stop this type of status quo spending, the agreement also establishes a bipartisan committee dedicated to evaluating and fixing our broken budget process.”
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