Trump Decertifies Iran Deal (Page 3)

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The Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 was signed into law by President Obama in 2015 and requires the President to submit a report to Congress every 90 days on whether Iran is fully implementing and abiding by the JCPOA.

Andy Harris (R-MD, 1st)

“I strongly support President Trump’s decision not to recertify the Iran nuclear deal. The Iranian government is a dangerous, authoritarian regime that sponsors terrorist groups and has openly threatened the United States and its allies. The deal made by the Obama Administration – without the consent of the United States Senate – failed to properly hold the Iranian regime accountable. Our nation’s strategy on Iran must be reevaluated, and I am committed to working with the Trump Administration and my colleagues in Congress to find a permanent solution that will keep nuclear weapons out of the hands of the Iranian government and the terrorists they sponsor.”

French Hill (R-AR, 2nd)

“The Iran Nuclear Deal was a bad deal for the American people that puts our safety and security at risk, especially our nation’s allies such as Israel. This deal has major flaws, including sunset provisions that should have never been included, zero monitoring of Iranian military sites, and continued Iranian research on advanced centrifuges. Without decertification, this deal allows Iran to head in the same direction as North Korea, and it is now up to Congress to decide if new sanctions against Iran’s nuclear program are warranted. I support the President’s decision to decertify the Iran Nuclear Deal and I will continue to support policies that target Iran’s terrorist financing, its missile technology, its violations of human rights, and its nuclear program.”

Bill Hulzinga (R-MI, 2nd)

“The action taken by President Trump today is a step in the right direction. The Obama Administration’s nuclear agreement with the Iranian Regime was ill-conceived and shortsighted. Under this flawed agreement international inspectors are unable to properly verify Iran’s compliance, the Iranians are able to continue to develop and improve their centrifuge technology, and worst of all, this dangerous deal puts Iran on the doorstep of having nuclear weapon capabilities.

“Additionally, the regime’s use of civilian airplanes for transporting troops and weapons to destabilize the Middle East combined with their continued testing of intercontinental ballistic missiles demonstrate why Iran is known as the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism. Congress and the Trump Administration must work together to effectively hold Iran accountable for their actions.”

Last year, the House of Representatives passed Congressman Huizenga’s legislation that would prohibit the U.S. Treasury Secretary from allowing any U.S. financial institution from financing the sale of aircraft to Iran.

Pramila Jayapal (D-WA, 7th)

“As many feared and warned, President Trump is proving to be a major threat to our national security and to world peace. The president’s deeply reckless and dangerous decision to decertify the Iran nuclear deal defies support for the agreement across partisan lines and from experts on his own national security team. Even those who opposed this nuclear deal in the beginning recognize the value gained in remaining in the deal rather than abandoning it.

“The president is out of control. This decision to decertify the agreement has absolutely nothing to do with protecting Americans from harm. It has everything to do with his devotion to unravel any progress that we made under President Obama.

“All of my colleagues in Congress must stand on the side of peace, not war. We should do everything we possibly can to uphold the Iran nuclear deal and protect the American people.”

Evan Jenkins (R-WV, 3rd)

“I have always believed that the Iran nuclear agreement is bad for our nation and poses a grave threat to our national security. I agree with President Trump that we must work with our allies to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and craft an agreement that actually holds Iran accountable. I will continue to work with President Trump and my colleagues to protect our national interests and those of our allies in the Middle East, including Israel.”

Bill Johnson (R-OH, 6th)

"I am encouraged by the steps taken today by the President to put the rogue Iranian regime, the world’s foremost state sponsor of terrorism, on notice. It is clear that a new, comprehensive strategy is vital to preventing Iran from ever creating or acquiring nuclear weapons, and checking its regional aggression.

"The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is a deal that America should not have been a party to in the first place. It only temporarily restricts Iran’s nuclear program, and does little to deter Tehran from continuing its thirst for nuclear weapons and technology - all while filling the regime's coffers. Not only has Iran repeatedly displayed a disturbing pattern of behavior while continuing to recruit and fund terrorist groups operating in Syria and Iraq, but the Iranian regime’s continued nuclear testing on military sites also undermines the standards set by the international community to promote security and regional stability.

“History shows that President Trump is right to be wary of Iran, and this announcement today solidifies the Administration’s policy of protecting American security, and preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons."

Mike Kelly (R-PA, 3rd)

"I strongly support President Trump's new strategy against the Iranian threat and his decision to disavow the failed Iran nuclear deal. Back when this deal was first proposed in 2015, I called it 'a dangerous mistake of potentially historic proportions.' A year later, on its first anniversary, I said there was 'nothing to celebrate—unless you're Iran' and that 'only a new president unafraid to stand down our enemies can undo this deal and reassert America’s position of strength.' I stand by every word of warning I delivered at that time, and today I applaud President Trump for keeping his promise and standing up for our country's security and that of the free world."

Daniel Kildee (D-MA, 5th)

“By failing to certify the Iran nuclear agreement, President Trump is rejecting the advice of his top defense and diplomatic advisors and putting America’s national security at risk by opening up the possibility of a nuclear-armed Iran.

“National security and foreign policy experts, including President Trump’s Secretaries of State and Defense, agree that Iran is in compliance with the agreement. Since it was enacted, the U.S. has certified eight times that Iran is in compliance, including twice by President Trump himself. Thus, President Trump is ignoring not only his own national security team, but also the facts.

“Let me be clear: Iran continues to be a bad actor on the world stage. It held a young man from my hometown, Amir Hekmati, as a political prisoner for nearly five years and continues to hold other Americans. But the nuclear deal was never designed to address all of Iran’s provocations. Rather, it sought to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, which the agreement has so far has accomplished. It is easier to address Iran’s other bad behavior without also having to also contend with a nuclear-armed Iran.

“In addition, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff recently said that walking away from the deal would make other countries less willing to enter into diplomatic accords with the United States. As tensions continue to rise with North Korea, President Trump backing away from the agreement makes a diplomatic resolution with North Korea even harder.

“Congress will now have 60 days to respond to the President’s reckless decision. Congress must abide by the agreement to protect America’s security and interests abroad.”

Adam Kinzinger (R-IL, 16th)

“The decertification of the Iran Nuclear Deal is an opportunity for Congress to reassess our long-term, broader strategy for dealing with this tyrannical regime. I believe it is critically important that we remember that our relationship with Iran goes far beyond this flawed deal.

“From their chants of “Death to America” and provocations against our military, to their destabilizing efforts across the Middle East and active role in propping up a murderous dictator in Syria. This regime is responsible for thousands of innocent deaths as they and the Russian regime assist President Bashar al Assad in his genocide.

“We know that Iran has tyrannical, maniacal, and nuclear ambitions. And we know Iran is actively working against the United States. It’s important to remember that a quarter of the American soldiers killed in Iraq were killed because of Iran.

“Today, the President set the tone and made clear that we cannot allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons, and we cannot ignore their threats any longer. I'm looking forward to working with my colleagues in Congress to strengthen U.S. policy towards Iran, and improve our national security.”

Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL, 8th)

“President Trump is planning to unilaterally decertify the Iran Nuclear Agreement and effectively deliver a self-inflicted wound to our national security and standing abroad. Only a week after Secretary of Defense Mattis stated that upholding this agreement was in our national security interest, President Trump is dismantling it.

If the President goes through with decertifying this agreement - despite the International Atomic Energy Agency’s confirmation that Iran is in compliance - he will deal a serious blow to American diplomatic credibility. If, in the full face of evidence and international consensus, the United States goes back on her word, it will only harm our ability to reach a negotiated resolution to the current tensions with North Korea. Every nation must now question whether agreements signed by the United States will be revoked at the whim of the next chief executive.

We must remain vigilant to ensure Iranian compliance with the agreement, but the President’s actions would only weaken those efforts and our security.”

Ann Kuster (D-NH, 2nd)

“Our first priority must be ensuring that Iran is not able to obtain a nuclear weapon and President Trump’s announcement that he will decertify the Iran Deal is counter to that goal. Undermining our diplomatic efforts to contain Iran’s ability to produce a nuclear weapon would have serious consequences for efforts to rein in North Korea and other bad actors through diplomacy. I’m hopeful that reason will prevail in Congress and we will stand with our allies around the world to continue holding Iran to its obligations under the nuclear deal.”

David Kustoff (R-TN, 8th)

“The deeply-flawed Iran deal has failed to prevent the Iranian Regime’s ballistic missile testing, terrorism and overall hostility that continues to threaten America’s national security interests and regional stability,” said Kustoff. “In fact, Iran’s aggressive behavior has escalated since the JCPOA was adopted two years ago. We cannot forget that the Iran deal is a non-binding political agreement that President Obama entered into using unilateral executive authority, without the consent of Congress or the American people. This was a bad deal from day one. I applaud the Trump Administration for decertifying the poorly-negotiated JCPOA and for developing a new strategy to counter Iran’s malign activities. We must remain vigilant against those who wish to bring Americans harm and continue to stand with our Middle Eastern allies.”

Doug LaMalfa (R-CA, 1st)

“The previous Administration’s agreement with Iran was as one-sided as it gets. They lifted billions in sanctions, allowing Iran to finance their terrorist operations – and in return, they’re still fully capable of developing ballistic missiles today with the authority to have nuclear weapons in a few short years. This agreement does nothing to protect the lives of American citizens and our allies, and I fully support the decision to revisit it. Iran must truly be held accountable for their dangerous behavior, and a poorly negotiated deal that is filled with concessions doesn’t accomplish that.”

Leonard Lance (R-NJ, 7th)

“The President made the right move in asking Congress to reevaluate the Iran nuclear agreement. Iran has violated both the letter and spirit of the agreement by its failure to establish required nuclear export policies and practices, working with North Korea on boosting prohibited trade, supporting and funding international terrorism, testing ballistic missiles and the brutalization of its own people. If Iran wants to join the world community then the country’s leaders need to comply with the numerous U.N. resolutions designed to keep the world safe.

“Iran’s nuclear weapons program and support for terrorism are not separate conversations. Congress must consider all of the deadly threats posed by Iran. I support improvements to the agreement that hold Iran accountable and actually lower nuclear enrichment levels. An improved deal must deny Iran all steps to a nuclear weapon.”

Jim Langevin (D-RI, 2nd)

“The President’s actions today threaten both our national security and international stability. The objective of the JCPOA is clear: to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear arms capability. Iran continues to comply with the requirements of the agreement, which include a reduced stockpile of low-enriched uranium; strict limitations on centrifuges, research and development efforts, and the amount of fissile materials; and on-the-ground inspections and assessments by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). By decertifying their compliance with the JCPOA, the President risks triggering a regional arms race, increasing tensions across the Middle East, and further dividing the global community.”

“President Trump’s own advisors have publicly agreed with international observers that Iran is complying with the terms of the deal. Despite this clear evidence, the President is again displaying his willingness to desert our international commitments. When the President fails to represent the United States as a forthright international partner, it only emboldens our adversaries across the globe. Rather than recklessly abandoning this agreement, we must continue to conduct rigorous oversight of the plan’s implementation to ensure Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon. I urge the President to reconsider and to certify this important agreement.”

John B. Larson (D-CT, 1st)

“The Iran Nuclear Agreement was not perfect, however, as I have stated before and as others in the Trump administration believe, this agreement is the best option, and it has blocked Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The decertification has now put this deal in the hands of the U.S. Congress and I am calling on my colleagues to act in the best interest of United States’ national security. If we withdraw from the agreement without a credible cause, the United States will not only be abandoning our alliances with regional and European partners, but we will put ourselves in a corner. We will be sending a strong, and dangerous message to North Korea and China, saying that the United States’ word can’t be trusted. Equally as important as the decertification, is our credibility with our allies which is instrumental in our ability to negotiate with North Korea. By going back on our word, this will hamper our ability to do so and our credibility. This is beyond politics. We ought to do what’s right for the country.”

Barbara Lee (D-CA 13th)

“By undercutting the Iran Deal, President Trump is gambling with the safety of the American people. His actions are reckless, illogical and, above all, dangerous.

“Withholding certification for the Iran Deal will isolate the United States and alienate our allies. It could also bring the United States back to the brink of war, undoing years of diplomatic efforts. In Congress, I will continue to advocate for preserving the Iran Deal and work to prevent any legislative action that undermines this goal.”

Sander Levin (D-MI, 9th)

“President Trump is carrying out hyperbolic campaign rhetoric at the expense of America’s national security. His refusal to certify the Iran Nuclear Agreement absent evidence of material breach by Iran is dangerous and reckless. With key members of the Trump Administration having reaffirmed Iran’s compliance with the 2015 Agreement, reached between Iran, the United States, China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, and Germany, this another example of the President disregarding even the advice of key members of his own Administration.

“During my years in Congress, I actively participated in methodically increasing multilateral sanctions against Iran. Those efforts first led to a broad framework agreement and ultimately the 2015 Iran Nuclear Agreement, which I strongly supported after having thoroughly considered all the provisions and alternatives. At the time of the Agreement, Iran was estimated to be only two months away from the ability to produce enough material for one nuclear weapon. Key restrictions put in place in the Nuclear Agreement lengthened that period to a year. It contains provisions to reduce stockpile of enriched uranium by 97 percent and refrain from enrichment above a 3.67 percent level for 15 years. It cuts the number of installed centrifuges by two thirds, requires Iran to render its heavy water plutonium reactor inoperable, and allows the International Atomic Energy Agency to monitor the uranium supply chain for at least two decades. I supported the Iran Nuclear Agreement because it was the best course of action to ensure peace and security for the United States, and for our allies in the Middle East.

“This Administration risks Iran returning as an imminent nuclear threat and undermines U.S. leadership in the Middle East. In taking steps to unravel the Iran Nuclear Agreement, President Trump erroneously argues that a different agreement may be reached, such as putting constraints on Iran’s ballistic missile activities. This could not occur without offering additional incentives to Iran and without strong support from our allies, who have all repeatedly stated their unwillingness to reopen the terms of 2015 Nuclear Agreement.”

Nita Lowey (D-NY, 17th)

“While there has been much debate over the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), it must now be rigorously enforced. In the absence of credible information from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the intelligence community indicating Iran’s failure to uphold the agreement, I disagree with President Trump’s decertification of Iran’s compliance with the JCPOA.

“Let me be clear – Iran engages in behavior that is deeply destabilizing to the region. The Administration should adopt an aggressive, comprehensive strategy focused on vigorous enforcement of the deal and steps to combat Iran’s activities beyond the scope of the JCPOA, such as its ballistic missile program and conventional-arms transfers. It is paramount that we ensure Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon while working to rein in its dangerous non-nuclear activities.

“We must continue to stand with our allies and partners in the international community. Abruptly leaving the JCPOA risks our country’s credibility and could isolate us at a time when we need international partnerships more than ever to combat Iran’s destructive actions as well as increasing incitement from North Korea. I agree with Defense Secretary Mattis that staying in the deal is vital to U.S. national security, and we must maintain the JCPOA as long as the IAEA and U.S. military and defense leaders verify Iran’s compliance.”

Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)

“The President’s decision to withhold certification of the JCPOA risks our credibility in the world without doing anything to strengthen the deal. Iran is the world’s number one state sponsor of terrorism and must never have nuclear weapon. I’m pleased that Congress has recently passed, with my strong support, sanctions to crack down on Iran’s ballistic missile program, as well as its sponsorship of terrorism, human rights abuses, and support for the Assad regime.

“Unfortunately, the President’s non-action today will not help in the effort to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, nor will it prevent Iran from ramping up its long range missile program or curtail its destabilizing actions in the region. Instead, this unilateral decision to withhold certification will damage our alliances, weaken our country’s standing in the world, hamper our efforts to deal with North Korea, and leave lasting negative consequences for our future diplomatic efforts.

“Less than ten days ago, Defense Secretary Mattis testified that our intelligence community and the International Atomic Energy Agency believe that Iran has been compliant with the terms of the JCPOA. Under the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act, the President is required to provide to Congress credible evidence of Iranian noncompliance with JCPOA. To date, he has not provided such information. As long as our military leaders and the IAEA verify that Iran is complying with the JCPOA, and that our partners are abiding by its terms, then I agree with Secretary Mattis that remaining in the Iran Deal is vital to the national security interests of the United States.”

Doris O. Matsui (D-CA, 6th)

“This reckless decision is not in the best interest of our country or our global security. Countless experts and analysts have pointed to the extensive damage that will be caused if the United States abandons the JCPOA. While I continue to support ongoing efforts to ensure Iran’s adherence to the agreement, I believe President Trump’s decision to decertify compliance will hinder our work to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. And, wavering on our international commitment will damage our country’s credibility abroad. I urge my colleagues in Congress to remain committed to this critical agreement.”

Michael T. McCaul (R-TX, 10th)

“One of the greatest threats to our homeland is a nuclear armed Iran. Unfortunately, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), negotiated by the Obama administration, is an extremely weak agreement that has already strengthened the murderous dictatorship in Tehran and will allow the regime to obtain the world’s most dangerous weapons once the deal expires even if it’s strictly adhered to.

“This flawed agreement also inhibits real measures to restrict Iran’s ballistic missile program, omits needed sanctions on the IRGC, fails to address the regime’s human rights abuses, and neglects Iran’s active support for terrorist proxies with worldwide reach such as Hezbollah and Hamas. Lastly, Iran’s refusal to allow unfettered access to its military facilities for compliance inspection is a serious concern which the IAEA has noted.

“President Trump clearly articulated that the JCPOA, as currently written, is not in the national security interests of the United States or our allies. Future generations of Americans don’t deserve to be threatened by a nuclear armed Iran. 


“I commend the President for taking a measured approach to strengthen a toothless deal and I look forward to working with the Administration, my fellow Members of Congress, and our allies on tough new measures to prevent this tyrannical regime from expanding its terror footprint and from ever developing nuclear weapons.”

Betty McCollum (D-MN, 4th)

“President Donald Trump’s decertification of the Iran nuclear deal is a reckless decision that imperils global security and isolates the United States from our allies and partners in the world.

“Contrary to the outright falsehoods in President Trump’s remarks, the facts are simple: the Iran deal is working, preventing the Iranians from developing nuclear weapons, and forcing them to submit to comprehensive inspections. There is simply no rationale for either decertifying the deal or threatening to terminate the deal entirely.

“Congress must stand up to President Trump and his policies that endanger global security. In the weeks ahead, I will work with my colleagues to defend the Iran nuclear deal, uphold American credibility, and maintain global peace and security.”

James McGovern (D-MA, 2nd)

“President Trump’s decision to decertify the Iran Deal represents an all-time high in recklessness and stupidity. Every week the president’s Twitter tantrums put the world on edge. Decertifying the Iran Deal will add to this volatility by sending a chilling message across the globe that the United States is abandoning our leadership and our commitments on nuclear non-proliferation.

“With clear consensus by experts that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action remains the best way to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, President Trump’s failure to certify the agreement is dangerous and alarming. Ehud Barak, the former prime minister and defense minister of Israel and a strong critic of Iran, is among a growing group of world leaders who said it would be a mistake for President Trump to decertify the deal.

“We must be clear: The Iran Deal is working and making us safer. It set up the toughest international monitoring regime ever enacted. And thanks to the agreement, all of Iran’s potential pathways to obtaining nuclear weapons remain blocked. Walking away from the agreement would cripple America’s credibility on the world stage and endanger any prospects for negotiating with North Korea or other countries. And let me also be perfectly clear, despite what President Trump and Secretary Tillerson appear to assert, Congress cannot unilaterally change the terms of the JCPOA.

“President Trump decertifying the Iran Deal, as well as adding other poorly-conceived unilateral sanctions and conditions against Iran, would put America’s national security at risk and the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran back on the table. Americans deserve better from their leaders. I urge President Trump to reconsider this dangerous move and put the safety of the American people first by reversing this terrible decision.”

Mark Meadows (R-NC, 11th)

“The President’s decision today to decertify the Iran Deal is a major step in the direction of a much safer and more secure America. The Iran Deal was an ill-advised agreement that gave Iran an estimated $100 billion, accelerated Iran's nuclear proliferation, and handed over every U.S. bargaining chip to the Iranian regime. Meanwhile, we have strong evidence that Iran has continued ballistic missile testing, exporting weapons to Hezbollah and other terrorist groups, and failing to comply with the agreement, which requires minimal oversight.

The President is right to send this back to Congress and force us to do our jobs--to develop a comprehensive strategy on how to proceed with Iran using diplomacy rather than ineffective appeasement. This new direction will allow the United States to focus on neutralizing Iran’s reckless behavior in the Middle East and preventing the hostile Iranian regime from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

As I said two years ago when the agreement was announced, the Iran Deal was a historic victory... for Iran. Today is a victory for a safe and secure America.”

Luke Messer (R-IA, 6th)

“I applaud the President’s leadership in decertifying the Iran deal. Iran is not our friend, does not share our values, and unsurprisingly has not upheld the spirit of this deal,” Messer said. “I look forward to working with the Trump administration to pursue a strategy that will keep America and our allies safe from Iranian aggression.”

The Title IX Protection Act Introduced in the House

Source: Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)

Washington, D.C. - October 16, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12), sponsor of the Campus Accountability and Safety Act (CASA), today joined Rep. Jackie Speier(CA-14) as she introduced H.R. 4030, The Title IX Protection Act, which will codify Title IX protections for sexual assault survivors. Rep. Maloney is an original cosponsor of the bill.

The Title IX Protection Act codifies into law guidance released under the Obama, George W. Bush, and Clinton Administrations to provide clear standards for sexual harassment and sexual assault prevention and response that colleges and universities must meet under Title IX, which ensures educational equality for men and women. H.R. 4030 is a response to Secretary DeVos’s recent actions to rescind this guidance and allow schools to discriminate against survivors.

“I am proud to join Rep. Speier and many of my colleagues to make permanent Title IX protections for sexual assault survivors. Secretary DeVos’s decision to rollback these protections threatens the safety and wellbeing of college students. This change in policy creates confusion at best, and catastrophe at worst.  Students should never feel they are unsafe on their campuses, and they should be confident that college administrators are held accountable for ensuring their safety. The Title IX Protection Act sets clear standards that a preponderance of evidence be used for Title IX grievances, which is the standard for other civil rights law. It is our duty as lawmakers to make sure that students’ civil rights aren’t infringed upon and that they have a safe environment in which to learn and grow.”

Support Startup Businesses Act Passes House

Source: Ben R. Lujan (D-NM, 3rd)

Washington, D.C. - October 16, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Legislation authored by Congressman Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) designed to assist small startup businesses secure funding for early-stage innovation and development was approved today by the U.S. House of Representatives. Luján introduced the bill, H.R.2789 - the Support Startup Businesses Act, earlier this summer along with U.S. Reps. Brad Schneider (D-IL) and Daniel Lipinski (D-IL). The bill makes a number of improvements to the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, existing federal programs specifically intended to help startups.

Improvements in the bill include:

·         increasing overall funding to help startups take their ideas from concept to commercialization;

·         creating more flexibility in funding guidelines for technical and business assistance grants;

·         expanding the number of local vendors eligible to provide services to awardees.

Luján noted the rate of startup creation in the United States has fluctuated greatly in the past 30 years. The United States now ranks 12th among developed nations in terms of business startup activity.

“One of my top priorities in Congress is creating good jobs in our state, and there is no doubt that innovative small businesses are key to our economic growth,” said Luján. “This bill will make it easier for local businesses to access the resources they need to bring their research to market, and I also hope it will foster stronger partnerships between our those businesses and our national labs, who play a critical role in developing advanced technologies. I’m very pleased that the House has approved this legislation targeted at helping start-ups succeed.”

The two programs central to Luján’s legislation, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program are federal assistance initiatives, coordinated by the Small Business Administration, created to support scientific excellence and technological innovation and intended to help small startup businesses conduct research and development; take products from concept to commercialization; and build a strong national network of small startup businesses.

Republicans Oppose Langevin Effort to Stop Multi-million Dollar Gun Giveaway

Source: Jim Langevin (D-RI, 2nd)

Washington, D.C. - October 16, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- On Thursday, Congressman Langevin offered a Motion to Instruct House conferees on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to reject provisions that would transfer surplus Army pistols to the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP). The motion was rejected 237-184.

“We have the opportunity in this year’s NDAA to stop tens of thousands of Army pistols from being transferred to an obsolete private corporation,” said Congressman Langevin. “This constitutes a multi-million dollar government giveaway that would serve only to make our streets more dangerous. In voting down this motion, Republicans ignored their own rules regarding earmarks and continued their pattern of refusing to take any action to reduce gun violence.”

“The daily tragedy of gun violence challenges the conscience of our nation,” said Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi. “Congressman Langevin’s commonsense proposal would have prevented tens of thousands of guns from being unleashed in our communities. It is deeply disturbing that House Republicans instead decided to push their dangerous gun giveaway and stick taxpayers with the multi-million dollar bill.”

The CMP was established in 1903 following the Spanish-American War, when the American militia demonstrated several marksmanship and operational failures. With the advent of a professional military, the CMP was no longer essential to national security, and Congress privatized the Program in 1996. At the time, the Army was authorized to provide the CMP with an initial endowment of surplus rifles, ammunition and other spare parts that the CMP could sell to fund its activities, with the intention that it would eventually become self-sufficient.

The FY18 House-passed NDAA contains a provision requiring the Army to transfer surplus M1911A1 pistols to the CMP. The CMP would then be able to sell the pistols to support its activities. Langevin’s motion would have directed conferees to reject the House language and to support the removal of a waiver in the Senate-passed NDAA preventing the pistols from being melted down and repurposed. The conference committee will make a final decision on what language to preserve before final passage of the defense authorization later this year.

Legislation to Limit High-capacity Ammunition Magazines Introduced in the House

Source: Ruben Kehuen (D-NV, 4th)

Washington, D.C. - October 16, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Rep. Kihuen took part in a press conference to introduce the Keep Americans Safe Act, legislation that would prohibit the transfer, importation, or possession of magazines able to hold more than ten rounds of ammunition. The Congressman joined his colleagues from the Nevada Congressional delegation, as well as House members committed to ending gun violence that affects communities across the country.

“Last week, the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history took place in the heart of the community where I grew up. We know that high-capacity magazines, which allow shooters to fire dozens of shots without having to reload, directly contributed to the deadliness of this horrific event. The American people are counting on us to take steps to reduce the tragic gun violence affecting communities across the country. That’s why I am proud to help introduce the Keep Americans Safe Act. Congress should take decisive action and pass this legislation to help prevent unnecessary loss of life caused by gun violence.”

Resolution to Retain the Debt Limit Introduced in the House

Source: Walter B. Jones (R-NC, 3rd)

Washington, D.C. - October 16, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Eliminating the debt limit has long been a cause of liberal commentators, media elites and Washington insiders.  The subject was reportedly broached by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi at a September meeting with President Donald Trump.  In addition, three Senate Democrats recently introduced legislation to get rid of the debt limit.          

Congressman Walter B. Jones (NC-3) disagrees.  This week, Congressman Jones continued his fight to protect the fiscal future of the United States, and introduced H.Res. 564, which reaffirms the importance of retaining the federal debt limit.  H.Res. 564 states that “removing limitations on the debt would – (A) inappropriately cede Congress’ constitutional authority; (B) remove a critical check on future increases in deficit spending and the national debt; and (C) potentially exacerbate the already unsustainable fiscal position of the United States, and as a consequence, its national security.”

“Eliminating the debt limit is a very troubling proposition,” said Congressman Jones. “America is over $20 trillion in debt, and running $700 billion annual deficits. We cannot keep spending this way.”

“Article I, Section 8 of our United States Constitution explicitly delegates to Congress the power of the purse, including the power over the debt,” continued Congressman Jones.  “The debt limit is a critical tool that Congress can use to check future increases in deficit spending and the national debt.  Doing away with it will only enable the big spenders in Washington and hasten America’s bankruptcy.”

The full text of H.Res. 564 is attached.  Cosponsors include Congressmen Ted Budd (R-NC), Mark Meadows (R-NC) and Thomas Massie (R-KY).

Congressman Jones has devoted his time in service to sounding the alarm about wasteful spending and the rising debt.  He has consistently voted against raising the debt limit and wasteful spending bills.  He is the only member of Congress to vote against every bloated budget over the past 13 years. Over that time the national debt has grown nearly $13 trillion, over $1 trillion a year.

U.S. District Court Protects Prayer to Open Congress

Washington, D.C. - October 16, 2017 - (The Ponder News) --  Mike Johnson (R-LA, 4th) issued the following statement after the U.S. District Court’s decision in Baker v. Conroy rejected a challenge to Congress' ability to open its meetings with a prayer:

“As an attorney who defended legislative prayer for many years prior to being elected to Congress, I am thankful for the court’s decision invalidating this latest atheist challenge to our cherished tradition. As the Supreme Court has acknowledged many times, 'we are a religious people, whose institutions presuppose a Supreme Being.' I look forward to continuing to start our work in Congress each day as our founders did, with a prayer to God.”

Congressman  Walter B. Jones (R-NC, 3rd) praised the U.S. District Court’s decision and released the following statement:

“I am very happy to see the district court in our nation’s capital reaffirm the important role of prayer in our legislative branch,” said Congressman Jones. “Our nation was founded on Judeo-Christian values.  For 243 years, our Congress has opened its day with prayer, and I will fight to make sure that never changes.”

Congressman Jones is a long time member of the House Values Action Team and has consistently supported and defended religious freedom.

FITARA Enhancement Act of 2017 Passes House

Source: Darrell Issa (R-CA, 49th)

Washington, D.C. - October 16, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Darrell Issa (R-Vista) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed bipartisan legislation he introduced with Congressman Gerald Connolly (D-VA) that would extend and improve landmark legislation they passed in 2014 to reduce waste, and streamline the way the federal government purchases computer technology. The FITARA Enhancement Act of 2017 (H.R. 3243) which passed today extends three provisions of the Federal Information Technology Acquisition and Reform Act that are set to expire at the end of the year. 

According to estimates from the Government Accountability Office, as much as 75% of the federal government’s $80 billion yearly information technology budget is spent on maintaining out-of-date or obsolete systems. Other reports from the government’s watchdog regularly show that many of the federal government’s IT investments frequently fail or underperform from a lack of oversight.

Issa and Connolly’s landmark federal IT reforms (FITARA) help correct these problems and reduce waste by implementing strong oversight standards, encouraging consolidation of programs within the government, requiring agencies report their progress on initiatives to consolidate and modernize data centers, creating metrics to evaluate the performance of programs, encouraging modernization, and creating a clear line of responsibility, authority, and accountability over IT investment.

“This legislation is critical to ensuring FITARA’s benefits are seen through to their fullest potential,” said Congressman Darrell Issa. “FITARA has made incredible improvements to how the federal government manages its information technology by cutting waste, saving taxpayer dollars, improving security, and bolstering accountability. Yet, as is often the case in government, it has become clear that our problem with wasteful, forgotten, or duplicative data centers is far bigger than was even imagined. When we first started looking into this problem in 2009, it was estimated the government was running only roughly 1,000 data centers. By 2015, it was uncovered it was running as many 10 times the number initially estimated. As these modernization efforts continue being implemented, we can’t miss out on potential taxpayer savings by simply allowing agencies to run out the clock until the requirements expire the end of next year.”

The legislation follows the Representatives’ “dual track” approach to extending FITARA. In addition to the stand-alone bill passed today, Congressman Issa and Congressman Connolly passed a similar amendment to the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act in July of this year.

The FITARA Enhancement Act of 2017, specifically extends the reporting requirements for data center consolidation, which is set to expire in 2018, and eliminates 2019 sunset provisions for PortfolioStat reviews (which are face-to-face reviews of an agency’s IT portfolio including potentially duplicative programs or investments that do not appear aligned with the agency’s mission) and the Information Technology (IT) Dashboard (which is a tool that allows the public and officials to track investment and performance of more than 7,000 federal IT investments).

Congressman Issa authored the Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act which was signed into law in 2014.

Rep. Huffman Announces Suspension of ICE Enforcements; Urges All Sonoma and Mendocino Residents to Follow Evacuation Orders & Safety Recommendations

Source: Jared Huffman (D-CA, 2nd)

Sonoma County, CA - October 16, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Rep. Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) today announced that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has suspended all non-criminal immigration enforcement operations at wildfire evacuation sites or shelters due to the devastating fires that continue to burn throughout the North Bay and the North Coast.

Rep. Huffman urges all residents, regardless of immigration status, to seek shelter and follow public safety and evacuation warnings, without any threat of action by ICE.

"During this wildfire crisis plaguing our community, I am grateful that ICE has announced they will place public safety first and suspend immigration enforcement in the impacted areas," said Rep. Huffman. "That means shelters and foodbanks and other assistance centers are open to everyone, including undocumented individuals and DACA recipients, without fear of deportations or other immigration repercussions. My message to everyone in the North Coast and North Bay community, no matter their immigration status: stay safe, vigilant, and continue to follow all public safety warnings."

The full text of ICE’s announcement, which Congressman Huffman requested yesterday that the agency issue, can be found below:

“ICE is deeply concerned by the devastation wildfires have caused in significant portions of northern California. Our thoughts remain with those impacted by this tragedy, while our highest priority remains the preservation of life and safety wherever possible. In consideration of these distressing circumstances, ICE will continue to suspend routine immigration enforcement operations in the areas affected by the fires in northern California, except in the event of a serious criminal presenting a public safety threat. Likewise, immigration enforcement will not be conducted at evacuation sites, or assistance centers such as shelters or food banks."

House Approves SBIR/STTR Improvements Act, Higgins Amendment to Prioritize Cybersecurity

Source: Clay Higgins (R-LA, 3rd)

Washington, D.C. - October 16, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- The U.S House of Representatives today unanimously approved the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Improvements Act of 2017 (H.R. 2763), sponsored by Rep. Steve Knight (R-Calif.), vice chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy for the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and chairman of the Subcommittee on Contracting and Workforce for the House Committee on Small Business. The bill includes amendments by Reps. Randy Hultgren (R-Ill.) and Clay Higgins (R-La.). This legislation updates and strengthens the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs.

Rep. Higgins: “Some of the most innovative ideas and products for cyber warfare originate from American startups and small businesses. We need to harness that expertise to prevent, mitigate, and defend against cyberattacks. That’s why I am encouraged to see my amendment, which identifies cybersecurity as a priority field for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants, included in this bill. I want to thank Chairman Smith and Congressman Knight for their leadership and work to pass H.R. 2763.”

Rep. Knight: “H.R 2763 is one step closer towards a more transparent and safe government. This bill would give the opportunity for America’s small businesses to participate in the national security needs for innovation in our country. Small businesses are essential to America’s economic competitiveness and industrial base. Supporting programs like SBIR and STTR is important for the safety and economic stability of our nation. These programs sponsor developments that allow us to compete in the international marketplace and provide innovative tools supported and created by local entrepreneurs that contribute to American security.”

Chairman Smith: “Innovation is a critical component of small business success. The SBIR and STTR programs, through their $3 billion in annual awards to small businesses, spur many innovations and create thousands of jobs. This legislation updates these crucial programs. I thank Congressman Knight for taking the initiative on this issue.

H.R. 2763 was approved unanimously by the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology on June 22.

H.R. 2763 was approved by the House Committee on Small Business on June 15 by a vote of 19-0.