Trump signs the Defense Production Act to Combat Coronavirus

President Trump invoked the Defense Production Act to expand production of ventilators, masks and other emergency medical supplies. The DPA requires companies to accept and prioritize contracts from the government and to prioritize "materials, services, and facilities to promote the national defense."

At the same news briefing, Vice President Pence said that the Department of Health and Human Services soon will issue a regulation to “allow all doctors and medical professionals to practice across state lines to meet the needs of hospitals that may arise in the adjoining areas.”

Trump stated last night that, "I only signed the Defense Production Act to combat the Chinese Virus should we need to invoke it in a worst case scenario in the future. Hopefully there will be no need, but we are all in this TOGETHER!"

Read more about it:

What exactly is the Defense Production Act?
Source: Navy Times
March 19, 2020
President Donald Trump on Wednesday invoked a Korean War-era law as part of his response to the coronavirus pandemic, aiming to boost private industry production of supplies needed for the health crisis.
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New Jersey asks for Military Intervention and More News about the Coronavirus Epidemic

New Jersey has reported over 400 positive cases of COVID-19 and five deaths, according to Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ). He is requesting that the military get involved due to shortages of hospital beds. Senator Menendez joined the New Jersey Delegation in a letter to Trump, which reads in part:

“The State of New Jersey is already working around the clock to revitalize and expand hospital infrastructure, but it will need support from the federal government to be sufficiently prepared for the anticipated influx of severe COVID-19 cases,” New Jersey’s congressional delegation wrote in a letter to President Trump. “New Jersey has already mobilized its national guard to investigate how to increase hospital infrastructure. Furthermore, our state’s Health Commissioner has been working with hospitals in reopening closed hospital wings, and is reviewing if it is possible to restore a closed hospital. Support at the federal level will help our state to meet its needs and allow those who contract the coronavirus to receive lifesaving healthcare.”

Mental Health America (MHA) announced that 1,015 additional mental health screeners nationwide have screened with a severe anxiety result in the month since the coronavirus worry began to emerge. “We have been monitoring an overall increase in anxiety screening since the middle of February, when concerns about COVID-19 began to grow,” reported Paul Gionfriddo, president and CEO of MHA

In a ruling that blocks the Trump Administration’s stricter work requirements for certain recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, Chief Judge Beryl A. Howell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled in favor of the attorneys general for 19 states, the District of Columbia, the City of New York, and 3 private plaintiffs, to temporarily block the finalized rule that would have gone into effect on April 1, and stripped benefits from an estimated 700,000 able-bodied adults without dependents, or ABAWDs.

Even without the ruling, the Family First legislation that was just passed to assist Americans during the Coronavirus crisis suspends this requirement temporarily.

To meet the needs of borrowers who may be impacted by the coronavirus, last week Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (“the Enterprises”) reminded mortgage servicers that hardship forbearance is an option for borrowers who are unable to make their monthly mortgage payment,” Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Mark Calabria said in a statement.

“As with any other event that negatively impacts a borrower’s ability to pay their monthly mortgage payment, FHA’s suite of loss mitigation options provides solutions that mortgagees should offer to distressed borrowers – including those that could be impacted by the Coronavirus – to help prevent them from going into foreclosure. These home retention options are located in FHA’s Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1 Section III.A.2,” FHA said in a statement

Oregon’s U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) have joined Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), to introduce legislation that would ensure Americans are able to vote this year, despite disruptions caused by COVID-19. The bill would expand early in-person voting and no-excuse absentee vote-by-mail to all states, and allowing voters who did not receive an absentee ballot to use a printable ballot currently only provided for military and overseas voters. The legislation comes as five states have already postponed primaries in response to the pandemic.

Red Cross Needs Blood Donors

The Ponder is dedicated to informing the public about what is going on in Washington that concerns you as American Citizens. But, more than that, we are also dedicated to getting any information out that helps you during this (and any other) time of crisis.

Having said that,

The Red Cross is asking for donations of blood. Seems there is a shortage of blood donors since the Coronavirus scare.

Their website states:

"The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during this coronavirus outbreak. Healthy individuals are needed to donate now to help patients counting on lifesaving blood.

Donating blood is a safe process and people should not hesitate to give or receive blood. Watch this video on the safety and need for blood donations. Right now, eligible and healthy donors are strongly urged to make an appointment to give soon. But please postpone your donation for 28 days following travel to China and its special administrative regions, Hong Kong and Macau, as well as Iran, Italy and South Korea, or if you’ve been diagnosed with or have had contact with anyone with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19."

Read more, and find out how YOU can safely donate, by clicking HERE

Coronavirus, March for Life, Maternal Health, Prescription Drugs, Business Start-ups, Cruise Industry, Immigration, Health Care

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 17, 2020

I would just like to say that, in light of this Coronavirus scare, President Trump is doing an OUTSTANDING job working around the clock to get this thing under control!

He has utilized ALL RESOURCES AVAILABLE and has done his best to put politics aside to make sure every American is cared for during this crisis in a variety of ways -- including financially.

He has done his best to decrease panic, as well as maintain urgency at the same time.

Thank you, Mr. President for being such a strong leader during this time, and I don't think anyone else could have, or even WOULD have, done better!

--Shonda Ponder, Editor-in-chief

UPCOMING EVENT: First-ever official California March for Life to take place in Sacramento on June 23rd, 2020
Source: March for Life
March 17, 2020
March for Life is honored to partner with the California Family Council to organize the first-ever official California March for Life on June 23rd, 2020 in Sacramento, California. Marchers will rally at the state capitol to call for an end to pro-abortion extremism in the state.
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McBath Leads Legislation, Joins Colleagues to Unveil Historic Legislative Package to Address America’s Maternal Health Crisis
Source: U.S. Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA, 6th)
March 10, 2020
Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) joined Representatives Lauren Underwood (IL-14) and Alma Adams (NC-12), Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA), and members of the Black Maternal Health Caucus to introduce a historic legislative package to address the United States’ urgent maternal health crisis. McBath’s legislation, the Social Determinants for Moms Act, is included in the legislative omnibus, or “Momnibus,” and funds access to services and critical research to help save the lives of American women.
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REPRESENTATIVE MALINOWSKI URGES INSURANCE COMPANIES TO CLARIFY RULES FOR PRESCRIPTION DRUG REFILLS
Source: U.S. Representative Tom Malinowsky (D-NJ, 7th)
March 11, 2020
Representative Tom Malinowski led a group of 11 of his colleagues in sending a letter to Matt Eyles, President and CEO of America’s Health Insurance Plans, and the eight major American insurance providers, to clarify that patients will continue to have access to life saving prescriptions as the coronavirus epidemic grows.
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SEC adopts McAdams and Hollingsworth proposal to cut red tape on promising start-ups
Source: U.S. Representative Ben McAdams (D-UT, 4th)
March 12, 2020
Legislation by Congressman Ben McAdams and Congressman Trey Hollingsworth (R-IN) giving commonsense regulatory relief for America’s growing companies was essentially adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in a rule-making action. McAdams introduced the Fostering Innovation Act in 2019 as a narrow fix that allows small emerging growth companies to keep capital working to fund business needs, rather than expensive regulatory filings.
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MARCH OF DIMES LAUNCHES MOM AND BABY COVID-19 INTERVENTION AND SUPPORT FUND
Source: March of Dimes
March 13, 2020
March of Dimes launched the Mom and Baby COVID-19 Intervention and Support Fund to help protect moms and babies from COVID-19, the new coronavirus disease. As the public grapples with the spread of the disease, March of Dimes is serving as a resource for moms and providing them with the information and resources they need to protect their families.
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Maloney Helps Pass Second, Bipartisan Coronavirus Response Package
Source: U.S. Representative Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY, 18th)
March 14, 2020
Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) helped pass Congress’s second, bipartisan COVID-19, or novel coronavirus, response package. The bill will provide: free coronavirus testing for every American who needs a test, including the uninsured, paid emergency leave for workers, unemployment insurance protections for furloughed workers; more money for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), senior and student meal programs, and food banks; and increased federal funds for Medicaid.
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Rep. Maloney Votes to Pass Legislation to Support America's Families Facing COVID-19
Source: U.S. Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
March 14, 2020
As our nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to make sure that families across this country have the resources they need to take care of themselves and their loved ones. We need to make paid leave available so that employees aren’t faced with the impossible decision to give up a paycheck or go into work while sick and we need to make sure that we are looking after American’s financial wellbeing, in addition to their health.
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MARSHALL SUPPORTS AMERICAN WORKER DURING COVID-19 OUTBREAK
Source: U.S. Representative Roger Marshall (R-KS, 1st)
March 14, 2020
After voting YES on a bill to support American workers and the economy during the COVID-19 outbreak, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., issued the following statement: “We are helping President Trump deliver free tests, emergency paid leave, and flexibility for families and small businesses affected by Coronavirus. During his address from the Oval Office earlier this week and today in the Rose Garden, President Trump assured the American people that he would use the full force of the federal government to continue to curb the spread of the coronavirus here at home. As a physician and Member of Congress, my highest concern and priority is the health and safety of Kansans. I'm relieved we could come together to produce a thoughtful, bipartisan piece of legislation with input from the Trump Administration. The health and well-being of American families comes first and I look forward to these measures being implemented as soon as possible.”
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Congressman McCaul votes to support American families and workers impacted by Coronavirus
Source: U.S. Representative Michael T. McCaul (R-TX, 10th)
March 14, 2020
This virus does not discriminate based on your health insurance, your political party, or your age. That is why I voted in favor of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.
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MANCHIN CALLS ON SENATE TO ACT NOW ON EMERGENCY CORONAVIRUS FUNDING
Source: Senator, Joe Manchin, III - (D - WV)
March 16, 2020
“I have no doubt Democrats and Republicans will come together and take care and help people and will come to the aid of the economy of our country and I hope they realize the people that really need help are the people that cannot make it from one week to the next let alone one paycheck to the next. My state also has the most endangered population in the nation,” said Senator Manchin. “But out of 1.8 million people, we have only tested 84. When the virus is found in my state, we are not prepared for it because we don't even have the tests to identify who is ill, who needs these treatments and needs the hospital care, and we don’t have medical equipment we need to support our vulnerable citizens. We need to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act now. This emergency funding that has already been passed in the House is vital to supporting our most vulnerable people. We have to do something and do it quickly. We should sit here and protest until it does come. There is no reason we can't do it tonight. We must come together, all of us, to fight this deadly virus.”
Read more...

MAZON Deeply Concerned About the Adverse Effects of Coronavirus Crisis on Low-Income Women and Families, Urges Further Congressional Action
Source: MAZON - A Jewish Response to Hunger
March 16, 2020
A Jewish Response to Hunger lauds the U.S. House of Representatives for recently passing the “Families First Coronavirus Response Act” (H.R. 6201) and urges the Senate to immediately follow suit.
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Matsui Calls on Congress to Oppose Cruise Industry Bailout
Source: U.S. Representative Doris O. Matsui (D-CA, 6th)
March 16, 2020
Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-6), sent the following letter to Reps. Richard Neal (MA-1), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Peter DeFazio (OR-4), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, urging them to oppose any bailout of the cruise industry and instead focus on supporting the federal response to the coronavirus.
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Senator Markey Calls on DHS to Halt Deportations, Release Immigrants from Detention
Source: Senator Edward J.Markey (D-MA)
March 17, 2020
U.S. immigration detention centers have been called a “[public health] disaster waiting to happen,” due to their crowded conditions and Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s history of medical neglect and substandard care. Except in limited circumstances, the DHS has the authority to release noncitizens from detention while they await immigration court proceedings. Senator Markey is calling on the Acting Secretary to use this authority and release eligible individuals from its custody.
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Baker-Polito Administration Announces Changes To Expedite Health Care Licensing, Increase Support For Local Boards Of Health And Small Businesses
Source: Massachusetts Governor’s Office
March 17, 2020
Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced further actions to support residents, health care providers, and small businesses during the COVID-19 outbreak. The Administration today announced several emergency orders expediting the onboarding process of more licensed health care professionals. The Administration is also distributing an initial $5 million in emergency funding to local boards of health throughout the Commonwealth, with more funding to be distributed soon. The Administration also took additional steps to support small businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak by formally seeking relief from the Small Business Administration.
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McConnell on Coronavirus: This is a Moment for Bold and Bipartisan Action
Source: Senator Mitch McConnell (R- KY)
March 17, 2020
Senate Republicans are convinced that the House’s non-comprehensive bill can only be the beginning of our efforts to support our health system, assist individual Americans and families, and stabilize the U.S. economy.
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The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America - 15 Days to Slow the Spread
Source: Major City Chiefs Police Association
March 17, 2020
1. Listen to and follow the directions of your state and local authorities.

2. If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work. Contact your medical provider.

3. If your children are sick, keep them at home. Do not send them to school. Contact your medical provider.

4. If someone in your household has tested positive for the coronavirus, keep the entire household at home. Do not go to work. Do not go to school. Contact your medical provider.

5. If you are an older person, stay home and away from other people.

6. If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition that can put you at increased risk (for example, a condition that impairs your lung or heart function or weakens your immune system), stay home and away from other people.

7. Even if you are young, or otherwise healthy, you are at risk and your activities can increase the risk for others. It is critical that you do your part to stop the spread of the coronavirus:

 Work or engage in schooling from home whenever possible.

 If you work in a critical infrastructure industry, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security, such as healthcare services and pharmaceutical and food supply, you have a special responsibility to maintain your normal work schedule. You and your employers should follow CDC guidance to protect your health at work.

 Avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people.

 Avoid eating or drinking in bars, restaurants, and food courts – use drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options.

 Avoid discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits.

 Do not visit nursing homes or retirement or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance.

 Practice good hygiene:
o Wash your hands, especially after touching any frequently used item or surface.
o Avoid touching your face.
o Sneeze or cough into a tissue, or the inside of your elbow.
o Disinfect frequently used items and surfaces as much as possible.
Read more...

National Emergency, Coronavirus, CDC Recommendations, Rail Crossings

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 15, 2020

LOWEY QUESTIONS CDC DIRECTOR ON CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE AND FY21 BUDGET REQUEST
Source: U.S. Representative Nita Lowey (D-NY, 17th)
March 10, 2020
“One week ago, my home county of Westchester, New York, had its first confirmed coronavirus case; today we have 98, with a total of 142 throughout New York State and more than 700 nationwide, including, tragically, 26 deaths. This stunning increase requires every level of government to work together and aggressively to contain and stop the spread of Covid-19."
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Santa Clara County Elected Leaders Call for Vital Information from TSA on Employees at Mineta San Jose Airport who Tested Positive for COVID-19
Source: U.S. Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-CA, 19th)
March 11, 2020
“If these employees were not in direct contact with travelers, we seek to reassure consumers. However, if the employees were posted at security checkpoints and had direct contact with travelers, we believe more information about posting locations and shift times should be made available to the public."
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LUJÁN STATEMENT ON CONFIRMED COVID-19 CASES IN NEW MEXICO
Source: U.S. Representative Ben R. Lujan (D-NM, 3rd)
March 11, 2020
“I continue to urge New Mexicans to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the New Mexico Department of Health to prevent the spread of illness and stay healthy. As we collectively address this threat, I will keep New Mexicans updated at each step.”
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REP LIEU STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE FAMILY FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT
Source: U.S. Representative Ted Lieu (D-CA, 33rd)
March 12, 2020
“I am pleased the House of Representatives passed the Family First Coronavirus Response Act, so that we can take another critical step to help Americans as we combat this deadly illness,” Rep. Ted Lieu said. “To mitigate the harm of the coronavirus, we must ensure anyone who needs a test can get one at no cost. Additionally, American families and workers must have protections should they get sick or have to change their work arrangements because of the coronavirus. I’m pleased that this bill addresses those issues, in addition to others. We have to give our first responders the resources and support they need to save lives. Stopping the coronavirus requires all of us, regardless of party, to work together for the collective good. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill quickly so we can mitigate this deadly virus.”
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THE FAMILY FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT includes:

Free coronavirus testing

Emergency paid leave

Enhanced unemployment insurance

Strengthened food security initiatives

Increased federal funds for Medicaid

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act provides $1.2 billion to help cover the costs of coronavirus testing, including $142 million to eliminate copay requirements for servicemembers and veterans.

The bill includes $1.25 billion to provide emergency nutritional assistance for senior citizens, women, children, and low-income families, including; $500 million for Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children; $400 million for the Emergency Food Assistance Program; and $250 million for senior nutrition.

The bill also includes $15 million for the Internal Revenue Service to administer tax credits.

Coronavirus precautions include:

Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and frequently

Covering your cough or sneeze with your arm

Avoiding touching your face

Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces

Avoiding close contact with others

And staying home if you are sick

If you are sick, Click HERE to find out what to do!

Luetkemeyer Statement on President Trump’s National Emergency Declaration
Source: U.S. Representative Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MI, 3rd)
March 13, 2020
“Today, President Trump took another important step to maintain the health and safety of the American people. The Administration gathered leaders from the American medical community and major retailers to create a plan that will greatly increase our capacity to test, treat and support our country. As Dr. Anthony Fauci stated today, the spread of the coronavirus will eventually end, but this emergency declaration will help it end sooner. Right now, it is important that we continue to practice commonsense health practices like handwashing, while exercising enhanced caution when it comes to our elderly and vulnerable Americans.”
Read more...

Congressman Lipinski Introduces Groundbreaking Bills to Reduce Blocked Rail Crossings, Improve Metra Service, and Limit Trains' Impact on Communities
Source: U.S. Representative Daniel Lipinski (D-IL, 3rd)
March 13, 2020
“I am thrilled to introduce this package of legislation that takes into account months of work holding hearings with community members, rail industry representatives, public officials, and passenger advocates to figure out the best way forward to fix problems we see with trains in our communities,” said Congressman Lipinski. “My staff and I listened closely to the concerns of all interested parties and these bills are the culmination of countless hours drafting and fine-tuning. From exploring innovative solutions that will improve safety and end the gridlock caused by idling or broken-down trains in the Chicago area and around the country, to streamlining functionality at Chicago Union Station, these bills can make a dramatic impact. I look forward to discussing these with my colleagues in the Rail Subcommittee and working with them to pass them into law.”
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Chairman Lynch, Chairwoman Maloney And Oversight Chairs Issue Joint Statement On President Trump Declaring National Emergency
Source: U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA, 8th)
March 13, 2020
“President Trump’s decision to finally declare this emergency is long overdue. We asked FEMA to testify at our Committee hearing earlier this week to hear about their emergency preparedness and response to the coronavirus crisis, but they declined, claiming that ‘the Agency does not feel as if there is much that we would be able to testify to.’ We could not disagree more. Over the past three months, there should have been intense planning to protect our food supply, expand hospital capacity, and manage a host of other emergency response challenges. Instead, the Trump Administration has been inexcusably slow in responding to this crisis, and the President and some of his top aides have been shockingly dishonest about their actions to counter this threat to the American people. We need leadership, we need competence, we need honesty, and we need to come together as a nation to help each other.”
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Rep. Long Issues Statement on H.R. 6201 FAMILY FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT
Source: U.S. Representative Billy Long (R-MI, 7th)
March 14, 2020
“The only opportunity Members of Congress had to review the text of the 110-page bill was 30 minutes before we voted on it. That was after two days of trying my best to find out what would be in the bill and what we would be voting on. With the Senate having all weekend to review the bill, I look forward to them sending their version back to the House in a form that I can support. Americans have faced many challenges since the founding of our country and we have always pulled together to fight whatever foe and this battle against the Coronavirus will be no different.”
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Congresswoman Elaine Luria Votes for Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Source: U.S. Representative Elaine Luria (D-VA, 2nd)
March 14, 2020
“As the coronavirus epidemic spreads to new localities every day, it is Congress’ duty to act to ensure families and workers will stay safe and healthy,” said Congresswoman Luria. “The Families First Coronavirus Response Act provides much-needed support for Americans who are most at-risk for the economic and health consequences of this outbreak. I urge the Senate to stand up for families and workers across our nation by quickly passing this urgent legislation.”
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State of Louisiana Reports Second COVID-19 Related Death
Source: Louisiana Governor’s Office
March 15, 2020
"Sadly, we have lost our second Louisianan to COVID-19,” said Gov. Edwards. “We ask the state to join us in sending prayers to the family members and friends who are going through this difficult time. As the number of positive cases continues to rise, we need every person to take the necessary actions to help reduce the spread of this virus. It is an extremely serious situation that demands all of our attention. Our elderly and those with chronic health conditions are the most vulnerable, but we all need to act responsibly and look out for ourselves and our neighbors.”
Read more...

PRO Act, Coronavirus, Voting Rights, Workers Rights, Refineries, Infrastructure, FISA, DOJ, UPS, Rush Limbaugh

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 10, 2020

LIUNA endorses PRO Act
Source: Laborers’ International Union of North America
March 4, 2020
Read LIUNA's letter to Senator Bobby Scott (D-VA) voicing support for H.R. 2474, the Protecting Right to Organize (PRO Act). The right to join a union is critical to ensure workers receive fair pay and benefits and safe jobsites.
Read more...

Latta Supports Effort to Combat Coronavirus
Source: U.S. Representative Robert E. Latta (R OH, 5th)
March 4, 2020
Ensuring the American people are safe is the most important job of government. I am relieved House Democrats agreed to put politics aside in order to join House Republicans in providing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration, State Department, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and our state and local response efforts the additional tools and supplies they need in order to safely respond to and better prepare for the spread of the coronavirus.
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U.S. Representative Lawrence Votes to Provide $8.3 Billion in Supplement Funding to Combat the Coronavirus
Source: U.S. Representative Brenda Lawrence (D-MI, 14th)
March 4, 2020
“It is of paramount importance that the federal government takes all steps necessary to proactively address the rise in Coronavirus cases in the United States,” stated Rep. Brenda L. Lawrence. “Following President Trump’s underwhelming supplemental funding request, I worked with my colleagues to provide $8.3 billion in new funding to address the Coronavirus, well over the administration’s $2.5 billion request. This is just a first step—I will continue to work with my local, state, and federal partners to ensure all health departments have the information they need to combat the spread of the Coronavirus.”
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Rep. Andy Levin Votes for $8.3 Billion to Combat Coronavirus
Source: U.S. Representative Andy Levin (D-MI, 9th)
March 4, 2020
“There’s a lot that federal, state and local health agencies can do to combat the coronavirus, but only if their efforts are fully funded,” Rep. Levin said. “Today, House Democrats acted quickly to pass a bill that would meet the challenges posed by COVID-19. The $8.3 billion we approved today will ensure that prevention, treatment and vaccine development happen swiftly using any resources necessary to keep families healthy and safe.
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LaMalfa Supports Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Package
Source: U.S. Representative Doug LaMalfa (R-CA, 1st)
March 5, 2020
“This package provides the funds necessary for the U.S. to address the virus at home and abroad, including assisting state and local health departments, making diagnostic tests more widely available, investing in the development of a vaccine, and reserving funds to prevent and respond to future diseases. While Americans’ risk of contracting the disease remains low, Congress has taken the right steps to provide for our country’s needs. The Administration has taken the appropriate steps responding to coronavirus so far; I‘m glad that we were able to get this package through.”
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CORONAVIRUS READINESS
Source: U.S. Representative Al Lawson, Jr. (D-FL, 5th)
March 5, 2020
Congress cleared an $8.3 billion emergency spending package Thursday that's intended to bolster public health resources as the coronavirus continues to spread throughout the country.
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Super Tuesday Minority Voters Were Latest Victims of the Voting Rights Act Gutting
Source: League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)
March 5, 2020
The calculated effort to suppress the minority vote during Super Tuesday is a danger to our democracy. In my home state of Texas, we heard from hundreds of minority Americans unable to vote due to too many people at too few polls and malfunctioning machines causing long lines. In California, we also saw how a lack of poll workers delayed lines for hours. This is on top of years of blatant attempts to reduce the number of polling sites in places where the Latino and African-American population is growing by the largest numbers through the gutting of the Voting Rights Act.
Read more...

Statement On Senate Passage Of The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental
Source: Senator Patrick J. Leahy (D - VT)
March 5, 2020
This week, Congress showed strong, decisive leadership in addressing the novel coronavirus. As Appropriators often do, and as members of Congress proved they are still capable of doing even in the most partisan times, we put our labels aside and came together for the American people.
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Rep. Susie Lee, House Pass Pay Raise, Workplace Protections for TSA Workers
Source: U.S. Representative Susie Lee (D-NV, 3rd)
March 5, 2020
This bill strengthens the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening workforce employees, or Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) workforce, by affording them the same worker rights, protections, and pay-scale guidelines as other federal workers under Title 5 of the U.S. Code. This bill will offer TSOs full collective bargaining rights, opportunities to effectively raise issues in dispute to an independent third party, and subjection to the General Services wage system.
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Lankford, Inhofe Applaud President’s Commitment to Save Blue-Collar Refinery Jobs
Source: Senator James Lankford (R-OK)
March 6, 2020
“We’re encouraged by the reports that the administration will appeal the Tenth Circuit’s decision on small refineries,” the Senators said. “Thousands of blue collar workers’ jobs are at stake if the ruling were to stand. We’re grateful for President Trump’s commitment to the hardworking men and women of small refineries, and look forward to working with the administration to ensure follow through on the President’s decision.”
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LAMB INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACT
Source: U.S. Representative Connor Lamb (D-PA, 17th)
March 9, 2020
Representatives Conor Lamb (PA-17) and Dan Newhouse (WA-4) introduced H.R. 6097, the bipartisan Nuclear Energy Research and Development Act. This bill expands critical research programs at the Department of Energy for a broad range of commercial nuclear reactors, lowering the price of electricity and extending the lifespan of these critical assets. The legislation also encourages the development of new, advanced reactor designs and funds training programs for the next generation of engineers.
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Langevin Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Nation’s Infrastructure Workforce
Source: U.S. Representative Jim Langevin (D-RI, 2nd)
March 9, 2020
Congressional leaders on workforce development and transportation policy introduced bipartisan legislation to bolster the nation’s infrastructure workforce by prioritizing strategic long-term planning and investments in career and technical education (CTE) and on-the-job training. The Transportation Workforce Investment Act aims to create a robust workforce pipeline to meet the growing demand for skilled workers to maintain and upgrade the nation’s aging infrastructure. Representative Jim Langevin (D-RI), co-chair of the Congressional CTE Caucus, was joined by House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Members Troy Balderson (R-OH), Angie Craig (D-MN), and co-chair of the Building Trades Caucus, David McKinley (R-WV), in introducing the bill.
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Larson Calls for Infrastructure Package to Boost Economy
Source: U.S. Representative John B. Larson (D-CT, 1st)
March 9, 2020
“Industries across the United States are being impacted by the spread of the COVID-19. Now is the time for Congress to invest in a comprehensive infrastructure package to spur the economy and help support our small and medium-sized businesses across the country. This package must also include medical infrastructure funding to help the United States be more prepared for mass-infections like this. Our roads and bridges are crumbling and this funding is sorely needed. Investing in our infrastructure is one step that we can take to provide economic relief,” said Larson.
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Lee-Leahy Introduce Bipartisan FISA Reform Bill
Source: Senator Mike Lee (R-UT)
March 9, 2020
“Our Founding Fathers knew well the danger of a government with the power to snoop through the private communications of law-abiding Americans. They included the Fourth Amendment in the Bill of Rights to limit the government’s ability to spy on its citizens,” Sen. Lee said. “This bill brings much needed common sense reforms to our federal government’s foreign surveillance programs so that Americans’ civil liberties are not violated again.”
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Rep. Mike Levin Slams DOJ for Lack of Enforcement on Anti-Patient Brokering Law
Source: U.S. Representative Mike Levin (D-CA, 49th)
March 9, 2020
U.S. Representative Mike Levin slammed the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) for failing to prosecute any cases under Section 8122 of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, a sweeping measure to address our nation’s opioid crisis that also prohibits the abusive practice known as patient brokering in the addiction treatment and recovery industries. In response to Rep. Levin’s August 2019 letter requesting information on any Section 8122 cases, the DOJ notified Rep. Levin last month that they have not identified any cases. The DOJ also misstated that the statute was enacted less than one year ago, when it was actually enacted in October 2018.
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UPS Manager Continues Punishing Drivers for Prayer Meetings
Source: God Inspires
March 10, 2020
In spite of scrutiny, the United Parcel Service (UPS) Myrtle Beach, SC Center manager is now retaliating against employees who sought to voluntarily pray together before work, in the form of strict application of work “rules” and harassment, in response to attention over the prayer meetings.
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UPS Manager Continues Punishing Drivers for Prayer Meetings
Source: God Inspires
March 10, 2020
In spite of scrutiny, the United Parcel Service (UPS) Myrtle Beach, SC Center manager is now retaliating against employees who sought to voluntarily pray together before work, in the form of strict application of work “rules” and harassment, in response to attention over the prayer meetings.
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Silent Victory to a Loud Cause
Source: Shonda Ponder Enterprises
March 10, 2020
I HAVE a sense of pride. No one remembers me or my contribution. No one believes all I had experienced during that time. No one will ever know the sacrifices I made to launch those who were still here fighting the good fight for TRUTH, JUSTICE and LIBERTY FOR ALL. But, I know. And, I will stand proud and applaud that the fight is now bigger than ever. And when Rush Limbaugh received his Medal of Freedom at Trump's Speech, I was working at the Pitt Grill, listening to the speech, and I applauded with tears of joy in that silent restaurant in the middle of the night, having moved on to a new life.
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Flouride Lowers IQ in Children

Washington, D.C. -March 8, 2020 - (The Ponder News) -- The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) just released an assessment of a draft report on fluoride neurotoxicity produced by the National Toxicology Program (NTP). The NAS suggested improvements to strengthen the report and heavily criticized NTP for ignoring evidence from animal studies and for inadequately addressing the human evidence of fluoride levels common in the USA, reports the Fluoride Action Network (FAN).

Paul Connett, PhD, Director of FAN, an environmental group, welcomed the NAS report and said, "If the recommendations are adopted, they will make the final report 'iron-clad' against criticisms. The NAS suggestions should strengthen the draft report's conclusion that fluoride is a presumed neurotoxin in children, which is based on 149 human studies. This finding brings into question the long-standing assurances from public health officials that water fluoridation is safe."

Connett went on to say, "The NAS review has been misinterpreted by fluoridation defenders. The NAS did not independently review the scientific evidence but instead limited itself to comments on whether the NTP clearly and thoroughly explained their methods. The NAS emphasized its finding '… does not mean that the NTP's conclusion is incorrect.'"

"Many NAS suggestions are minor and should have little effect on the conclusion of 'presumed' neurotoxic in children. However, the inclusion of the hundreds of identified animal studies, as recommended by NAS, can only increase confidence in the conclusion."

"The other main NAS criticism was that NTP inadequately addressed the question most people are interested in: Does fluoridated water pose a neurotoxic risk? Criticizing NTP's vague discussions about uncertainty over this question, the NAS recommends NTP do a proper dose-response analysis to address this issue head-on. FAN believes such an analysis will confirm there is sufficient evidence linking water fluoridation to lowered IQ and other neurotoxic effects."

Connett further stated, "Multiple strong scientific studies, at exposures relevant to fluoridation, have been published after the NTP's review. They link fluoridation in Canada to greatly lowered IQ in formula-fed infants (Till 2020) and 300% higher rates of ADHD (Ridell 2019); fluoridation in USA with sleep disturbances in adolescents (Malin 2020); and fluoride with lower IQ by thyroid disruption (Wang 2020)."

Coronavirus

Washington, D.C. -March 8, 2020 - (The Ponder News) -- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) members will have access to coronavirus (COVID-19) testing as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and prescribed by health providers. Effective immediately, BCBSTX will not require preauthorization and will not apply members' co-pays or deductibles for testing to diagnose COVID-19 when medically necessary and consistent with CDC guidelines.

The CDC recommends these actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick;

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;

Stay home when you are sick;

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash;

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe; and

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

At noon on Tuesday, March 3 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 60 cases of COVID-19 from 12 states. Twenty-two of these cases are travel-related; 11 are believed to be person-to-person spread; and for the remaining 27 the source of exposure is still under investigation.

Labels, Coronavirus, USDA

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 7, 2020

Kinzinger & Schrader Introduce Accurate Labels Act
Source: U.S. Representative Adam Kinzinger (R-IL, 16th)
March 2, 2020
Congressmen Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) and Kurt Schrader (D-OR) introduced H.R. 6044, the Accurate Labels Act, to provide clear, accurate, and meaningful nutrition information to consumers across America. This bipartisan legislation would also prevent the companies from issuing inaccurate labels that mislead consumers and drive up prices.
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Statement on Minnesota Case of Coronavirus
Source: Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)
March 6, 2020
I have talked to Governor Walz regarding the isolated travel-related case of coronavirus in Minnesota. The state has been preparing for potential cases of coronavirus, and yesterday in the Senate I voted for emergency funding legislation that will deliver at least $10 million in federal resources to Minnesota to combat this virus. Every Minnesotan should follow the advice of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Minnesota Department of Health to prevent the spread of this disease.
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Kuster, Fudge Lead Letter Calling on Agriculture Department to Step Up Civil Rights Enforcement
Source: Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)
March 6, 2020
Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Marcia Fudge (OH-11) led a group of 20 Members of Congress in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Assistant Secretary Devon Westhill. The Members urged Westhill, who assumed office on Monday, to improve USDA civil rights enforcement and protect the rights of USDA workers and program applicants to the full extent and letter of law.
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Sanctity of Life Act of 2020

Washington, D.C. -March 7, 2020 - (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Steve King announces that he has introduced HR 6042, the “Sanctity of Life Act of 2020.” This important Pro-Life legislation recognizes the scientific fact that human life begins at conception. Because of this fact, the legislation declares that “human life shall be deemed to exist from fertilization, without regard to race, sex, age, health, defect, or condition of dependency” and it defines the word “person” to mean “all human life as defined herein.” The legislation also recognizes that “each state has a compelling interest in protecting the lives of those within the State’s jurisdiction whom the State rationally regards as human beings,” a provision which will strengthen a State’s ability to protect life by enacting laws to prevent abortion. Importantly, the King bill also removes the threat of an adverse Supreme Court ruling on life, by removing the ability of that Court to hear cases arising out of statutes that “protect the rights of human persons between conception and birth.”

“As the author of the Heartbeat Bill, I have regularly said that ‘if a Heartbeat is detected, the baby is protected,’” said King. “Science tells us, however, that life truly begins at conception and that this date is the accurate point at which the law should act to protect human life from the tragedy of abortion. My ‘Sanctity of Life Act’ ensures that all human life can be protected from the moment of conception, and it contains an additional safeguard which would prevent the United States Supreme Court from attempting to strike down any law that seeks to protect a human person between conception and birth. We should pass this law. All human life is a sacred gift from God, and the law should recognize it as such and protect life while it is in its most innocent form.”

Congressman King is a nationally recognized leader on Pro-Life issues. He is the author of the federal Heartbeat Protection Act (HR 490), which currently has 101 cosponsors. In addition, a modified version of King’s Heartbeat legislation was enacted into law in Iowa. In 2018, King earned the “Phyllis Schlafly Award for Leadership” for his work on the Heartbeat legislation.

King recently received the highest possible score of “A” from Susan B. Anthony List, one of the nation’s leading Pro-Life advocacy organizations. In addition, King recently received the Family Research Council’s (FRC) “True Blue” award for compiling a perfect 100% voting record on issues tracked by the FRC in 2019, including votes on numerous issues of importance to the Pro-Life community.

King’s legislation may be seen at this link.