Friday, September 25, 2020

Introducing the Digital Commodity Exchange Act of 2020

By: U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-South Dakota at Large)

Washington, D.C. - September 25, 2020 - (The Ponder News) -- House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member K. Michael Conaway and Rep. Dusty Johnson (SD) introduced the Digital Commodity Exchange Act of 2020, legislation that creates a single, opt-in national regulatory framework for digital commodity trading platforms under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Cosponsors of the Digital Commodity Exchange Act (DCEA) include Congressmen Tom Emmer (MN-06), David Schweikert (AZ-06), Austin Scott (GA-08), and Darren Soto (FL-09). The text of the bill can be found here, a summary of the bill here, and Rep. Conaway's statement here. Here's what supporters are saying:

House Agriculture Committee Nutrition, Oversight, and Department Operations Subcommittee Ranking Member Dusty Johnson (SD-AL): "America is an innovative nation. That innovation often outpaces the federal regulatory environment. The Digital Commodity Exchange Act ensures Americans can have confidence in emerging financial tools. This bill offers necessary protections without stifling the creativity of new market commodity tokens.”

House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member K. Michael Conaway: “The Digital Commodity Exchange Act (DCEA) provides a clear path forward to improve the regulation of digital commodities. Digital commodity trading platforms are currently required to comply with a complicated labyrinth of 53 state and territory regulatory frameworks, hindering the ability for newcomers to enter the market. The DCEA provides responsible federal oversight of trading platforms and critical consumer protections, while also paving the way for innovators to develop new digital commodity projects. I’m excited by the support this bipartisan legislation has received in Congress and from those in the industry. I look forward to developing a legal framework and providing clarity for fintech innovators and strong protections for users of digital commodities.”

Blockchain Caucus Co-Chair, Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06): “We must ensure our laws and regulations are clear to give digital markets the clarity needed to protect consumers while ensuring further innovation can take place. This bill is a great step in the right direction for continuing to update and future-proof our federal policy, and I am pleased to join my colleagues in working to strengthen our regulation framework and fill the regulatory gaps that currently exist.”

House Agriculture Committee Commodity Exchanges, Energy, and Credit Subcommittee Ranking Member Austin Scott (GA-08): “I appreciate Ranking Member Conaway for his leadership on this legislation which will help us better understand emerging technologies like blockchain, and his continued focus to promote public policy that fosters, rather than inhibits, growth of FinTech in the United States.”

Blockchain Caucus Co-Chair, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09): "Regulatory clarity is critical for digital commodity markets to promote innovation and consumer protection. Innovators are spending up to fifty percent of start-up costs on legal fees because of the current regulatory ambiguity between what is a security and what is a commodity. That’s why the Digital Commodity Exchange Act will provide the necessary consumer protections, responsible federal oversight and regulatory clarity for all participating in digital commodity markets.”

Jerry Brito, Executive Director, Coin Center: "This bill is a win-win. Innovators and entrepreneurs get greater clarity and more regulatory options, while investors benefit from increased supervision of markets. We’re grateful for Mr. Conaway’s innovative thinking and leadership on this issue."

Kristin Smith, Executive Director, Blockchain Association: “We’re proud to support the introduction of the Digital Commodity Exchange Act and the Securities Clarity Act. Together, these efforts will help clarify outstanding issues related to when and how securities laws and commodities regulations apply to digital assets. Uncertainty over the application of these rules of the road continues to act as a strong headwind for the crypto ecosystem. These bills would do much to clarify the situation and put into law pro-growth policies for the crypto economy.”

To What Extent is the Government Collecting Your Internet Use Data?

By: U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-WA, 7th)

Washington, D.C. - September 25, 2020 - (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Warren Davidson (OH-08) sent a bipartisan letter to Attorney General William Barr and Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe today, seeking clarification on current surveillance practices since the March expiration of the USA Freedom Act, which includes the business records (Section 215), roving wiretap and lone wolf authorities.

In order for Congress to conduct its oversight responsibilities, Congress and the American people must know the extent of the government’s surveillance programs and which authorities they rely on. The letter refers to multiple incidences where U.S. intelligence agencies circumvented the will of Congress, violating Americans’ Fourth Amendment right to privacy and agencies’ own internal guidelines in conducting illegal surveillance. Reps. Davidson and Jayapal also question the extent to which the federal government is collecting Americans’ internet search and browser history data.

“We should all be concerned about the state of every American’s Fourth Amendment right to privacy if this administration is operating any surveillance on U.S. citizens without express Congressional authorization and oversight,” said Congresswoman Jayapal. “We need a clear public explanation of the guidance issued to federal agencies to confirm that the administration is not illegally surveilling the American people.”

“I look forward to a prompt response from Attorney General Barr and Director Ratcliffe. It is of utmost importance that we verify that U.S. intelligence agencies are abiding by the Constitution and upholding Americans’ right to privacy,” said Congressman Davidson. “Given recent history, Americans are entitled to know that, in the absence of Section 215, their Fourth Amendment rights are secure.”

Thirty-nine representatives joined Jayapal and Davidson in signing the letter.

The full letter is available here.

Thursday, September 24, 2020

Veterans, Forced Labor, Immigration, AI, Abortion Pills, Supreme Court

Hurd, Kelly Call for Creation of National AI Strategy
Source: U.S. Representative Will Hurd (R-TX, 23rd)
September 18, 2020
“American ongoing and future leadership in AI will be based on today’s policies and investments. We need a real and actionable comprehensive plan, as this resolution calls for, to engage all levers of national power to create and preserve American AI superiority,” said Kelly. “I’m glad to have so many colleagues, experts and advocates standing with us in this call for a comprehensive national AI strategy.”
Read more...

Human Rights First Decries Proposed Rules Designed to Put Pressure on Asylum Seekers, Limit Eligibility
Source: Human Rights First
September 22, 2020
“This proposed rule is yet another effort to rig the asylum system against refugees and deny them protection in the United States,” said Human Rights First’s managing attorney, Alysha Welsh. “The proposed regulations are riddled with requirements designed to deny refugees asylum for absurd reasons and will make it impossible for many asylum seekers to file timely applications for asylum. The proposal would exacerbate an application process that is already a minefield of technical requirements which many asylum seekers will not be able to meet, especially those who don’t have legal representation. Even experienced attorneys will be unable to overcome some of these nearly insurmountable barriers.”
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Inhofe Supports Confirming Justice This Year
Source: Senator James M. Inhofe (R - OK)
September 21, 2020
“The precedent here is clear. In the case of a united government, with voters having elected a Senate and White House of the same party, it is our constitutional obligation to consider a nomination of a Supreme Court justice. I look forward to a thorough and swift consideration of President Trump’s nominee. I’ve been pleased at the short lists President Trump has put forward and am confident his nominee will be a well-qualified, constitutional judge.”
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HYDE-SMITH SEEKS PASSAGE OF HER BILL TO RESTORE FDA RULES PROTECTING MOMS FROM DANGERS OF ABORTION PILLS
Source: Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS)t
September 22, 2020
This summer a federal judge in Maryland issued a nationwide injunction cancelling the FDA’s Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) rules intended to protect women seeking the abortion pill by requiring physician involvement and education about the potentially lethal side effects of the prescription.
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HOUSE UNANIMOUSLY PASSES 5 BILLS FOR VETERANS INCLUDING CHAIRMAN TAKANO’S VETERANS’ COMPACT ACT
Source: House Committee on Veterans Affairs
September 23, 2020
The House of Representatives unanimously passed all five bills brought to the floor by the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. This legislation will reform VA’s debt collection process and support homeless veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as help reduce veteran suicide through Chairman Takano’s Veterans’ COMPACT Act and the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act Of 2019.
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CHAIRMAN NEAL STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE UYGHUR FORCED LABOR PREVENTION ACT
Source: House Committee on Ways and Means
September 23, 2020
“The Chinese government’s widespread use of forced labor of Uyghur and other Muslim populations in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China has tainted an overwhelming amount of goods entering the global market. This bill makes it clear that the actions of the Chinese government are unacceptable, and those goods are not welcome in the United States. This is a strong measure, but appropriate given the circumstances. It is critical that the United States holds the Chinese government accountable for its gross human rights violations, and it is essential that our trade policies not perpetuate human suffering. I applaud the bipartisan support for H.R. 6210 and call upon the Senate to quickly pass this measure as well.”
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Tuesday, September 22, 2020

Child-like Sex Dolls, Apprenticeship, Small Business, Mothers, Hair, Nuclear Modernization, Teachers, Nuclear Testing, Native Americans, Cybersecurity

FL Delegation Co-Chairs Hastings and Buchanan Lead the Bipartisan Effort to Ban Childlike Sex Dolls Nationwide
Source: U.S. Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL, 20th)
September 18, 2020
“There is no more heinous crime than the sexual abuse or exploitation of children,” Buchanan said. “We need to enact a national ban on these obscene products that are known to encourage pedophilia. This is sickening and cannot be allowed to continue.”
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Harder Introduces Bill to Provide College Credit for Apprenticeships
Source: U.S. Representative Josh Harder (D-CA, 10th)
September 21, 2020
“If you’re a carpenter in Modesto and you want to go back to school to get a degree and start your own business, you’ve already spent years in a real-world classroom – that should count for college credit,” said Rep. Harder. “We need to give people who want to continue their education a chance to do that without having to start from scratch and break the bank along the way. That’s where my bill comes in.”
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Jaime Herrera Beutler Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Protect New Mothers from Surprise Bills
Source: U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA, 3rd)
September 21, 2020
“As a mother to three young children, I can report that the last thing on your mind after having a baby is rushing to fill out complex insurance paperwork to ensure your infant’s health insurance is covered,” Herrera Beutler said. “Yet this glaring loophole that leads to surprise billing is saddling countless new parents with thousands of dollars in expenses they weren’t anticipating and is contributing to rising health care costs in our country. I’m pleased to partner on this bipartisan legislation today to ensure new parents will have the flexibility to enroll their new infant in health insurance, and to focus on what is most important – the health and wellbeing of the mom and their new child.”
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Senator Hassan Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Long-Term Financial Assistance for Small Businesses, Nonprofits Hardest Hit by the COVID-19 Pandemic
Source: Senator Margaret Wood Hassan (D-NH)
September 22, 2020
“It could be many more months before our economy can get back to normal, and in the meantime, businesses across New Hampshire have told me that they need additional, long-term financial assistance to help them stay afloat during this challenging time,” Senator Hassan said. “The bipartisan RESTART Act will provide a lifeline to small businesses and nonprofits that have been hardest hit by this unprecedented economic crisis. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this commonsense legislation that will contribute to our economic recovery in New Hampshire and across the country.”
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HIGGINS ANNOUNCES APPROVAL OF THE CROWN ACT
Source: U.S. Representative Brian Higgins (D-NY, 26th)
September 22, 2020
“Nobody should be harassed or discriminated against for wearing their natural hair or choosing a style based on cultural heritage and preferences, yet people face these biases every day,” said Higgins. “The CROWN Act solidifies in federal law that race-based hair discrimination is illegal.”
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HOEVEN OUTLINES PROGRESS ON NUCLEAR MODERNIZATION, NEED FOR CREDIBLE DETERRENT
Source: Senator John Hoeven (R-ND)
September 22, 2020
“Our nuclear deterrent has been key to our national defense for more than 70 years, and at the same time, it is the most-cost-effective investment we can make to prevent conflict with other major world powers,” Hoeven said. “We cannot afford to ignore the advancements our adversaries are making. That’s exactly why we continue working to keep the modernization of our nuclear triad on track, including upgrades for the bombers and ICBMs at the Minot Air Force Base. Task Force 21 is an important partner in these efforts, and we appreciate the opportunity to discuss these critical issues with key leaders during their conference today.”
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Rep. Horn Introduces Educators Hazard Pay Bill
Source: U.S. Representative Kendra Horn (D-OK, 5th)
September 22, 2020
“Our educators are on the front lines of this pandemic,” said Congresswoman Horn. “Where schools have started holding in-person instruction, staff and teachers have gone to great lengths to adapt classrooms and keep students safe while providing a quality education. We know that educators providing in-person instruction are at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. We need to provide our teachers and staff with the resources they need to make it through this crisis, and I’m proud to fight for them.”
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Reps. Horsford, Susie Lee, McAdams, Panetta, Cox Introduce Legislation to Mandate Congressional Authorization for Nuclear Testing
Source: U.S. Representative Steven Horsford (D-NV, 4th)
September 22, 2020
“The Secretaries of Defense and Energy have reported to the President that the U.S. stockpile is safe, secure, and effective in the absence of nuclear testing. Restarting nuclear testing is unnecessary and would have far-reaching consequences on Nevada’s environment and the health and safety of my constituents. Any decision that brings dangerous explosives to our backyard must carefully consider the long-term effects on our state,” said Congressman Steven Horsford. “This legislation will ensure that Congress can provide the appropriate oversight and accountability measures necessary and determine any risk this many pose to the surrounding area.”
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Chair Grijalva Applauds House Passage of Bills to Strengthen Indian Country, Combat Crisis of Murdered and Indigenous Women
Source: House Committee on Natural Resources
September 22, 2020
“This Committee is working to strengthen Indian Country at every opportunity,” said Natural Resources Chair Raúl M. Grijalva. “Since the beginning of this Congress we’ve made a point of hearing directly from Native women and Tribal leaders on how to reduce violence against Indigenous women. I’m proud of the work that Democratic members are doing to solve pressing issues in Tribal communities. These bipartisan bills represent the tireless work of many people across Indian Country, and yesterday’s votes show us that persistence really does pay off.”
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Chairwoman Maloney Issues Statement on GAO Report Warning Cybersecurity Response Lacks Leadership
Source: House Committee on Oversight and Governmental Reform
September 22, 2020
“GAO recommends that Congress consider legislation to designate a cyber leadership position in the White House. I am a proud cosponsor of the National Cyber Director Act – the bill that would do exactly that: restore a cyber coordination and planning function to the White House and provide resources needed to strengthen our cyber defenses.
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Monday, September 21, 2020

Election Security, Ginsburg, Health Insurance, Seniors, Farmers, Department of Homeland Security, Guns, Child Care,

GONZALEZ BIPARTISAN ELECTION SECURITY BILL PASSES U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Source: U.S. Representative Brett S. Guthrie (R-KY, 2nd)
September 16, 2020
H.R. 4990, the Election Technology Research Act of 2019, authorizes the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) to conduct research on ways to improve and secure voting systems across the country.
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GOA/GOF Fund Challenge to NFA in U.S. Supreme Court
Source: Gun Owners of America
September 16, 2020
The Obama Justice Department brought criminal felony charges against Kettler for illegally possessing an unregistered firearm suppressor, despite the fact that Kansas’ “Second Amendment Protection Act” protected his actions.
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Guthrie Child Care Bill Passes House
Source: U.S. Representative Brett S. Guthrie (R-KY, 2nd)
September 16, 2020
“Without child care options parents can’t return to work, which is a key component of our nation’s economic recovery,” said Guthrie on the House floor. “Additionally, child care benefits a child’s health and development which are critical to building a strong foundation for future success. In my home state, Kentucky, thanks to the CARES Act, many of our child care centers have been fortunate to reopen; however, one-third of the state’s 2,200 licensed or certified child care centers still have not. The Ensuring Children and Child Care Workers are Safe Act will ensure that child care providers receive guidance and assistance to safely operate, so that parents can return to work, and our economy can continue to recover.”
Read more...

Under this bill, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) would provide states with educational material and technical assistance related to:

  • COVID-19 prevention in childcare facilities.
  • Professional development for childcare providers on health and safety.
  • How to acquire and use personal protective equipment.
  • How to modify operations to prevent COVID-19 transmission, including optimal staff-to-child ratios.

  • Rep. Grijalva Statement on the Death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
    Source: U.S. Representative Raul Grijalva (D-AZ, 3rd)
    September 18, 2020
    “Today we suffer a momentous loss to our nation as we say thank you and goodbye to Justice Ginsburg - a torch-bearer of equity. Throughout her groundbreaking career in advocacy, law, and ultimately the Supreme Court, she never backed down from a fight for social justice. She paved a path of righteousness in this country, stood up to a system tilted toward men, and took a stand for women and vulnerable populations across this nation. I know that the lives of my daughters and granddaughters are better thanks to her work and shining example. To honor her legacy we must continue the work she began. We must never back down, and we must let her strength guide us.
    Read more...

    Griffith Statement on Justice Ginsburg
    Source: U.S. Representative Morgan Griffith (R-VA, 9th)
    September 18, 2020
    “I am sorry to learn of the death of Justice Ginsburg. Her service as only the second woman on the Supreme Court was the capstone of a long and notable legal career.”
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    Republicans Introduce Legislation to Keep America Secure
    Source: U.S. Representative Michael Guest (R-MS, 3rd)
    September 18, 2020
    “After 20 months of Democrat dysfunction and caving to the left-wing of their party, it was clear the Democrats would not be able to build consensus to put forth their own reauthorization package,” Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Committee Rep. Rogers said. “I’m proud of the collective effort of my Republican colleagues to put together a bill that positions the Department to best combat new and emerging threats to our country. We owe it to the folks who work day-in and day-out to protect our homeland to pass a comprehensive reauthorization that provides them with the authorities and resources they need to effectively do their jobs.”
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    Congressman Al Green’s Statement on the Passing of Justice Ginsburg and the Crossroads Our Nation Approaches in Selecting a Successor
    Source: U.S. Representative Al Green (D-TX, 9th)
    September 19, 2020
    “Last night, we learned of the loss of a trailblazing activist attorney whose legacy as a voice for liberty and justice for all will endure the test of time, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. For decades, she was unwavering in the fight for gender equity and lent her voice to much-needed judicial change for the social justice movement. She had the courage to be a catalyst for women’s rights in a male-dominated justice system that seeks to maintain an unjust status quo. Her ability to challenge and change the status quo for the good of all will be missed,” Congressman Al Green stated.
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    House Passes Competitive Health Insurance Reform Act
    Source: U.S. Representative Paul A. Gosar (R-AZ, 4th)
    September 21, 2020
    "I am pleased to see this much-needed legislation again pass the House. I hope the Senate takes up this effort soon and I am confident that President Trump is eager to sign the bill. As a healthcare provider for more than two decades, I understand the importance of a competitive health insurance market. Patients, doctors, and hospitals all benefit when health insurers compete to provide a variety of quality coverage options. The healthcare market should be patient-centric and should provide a variety of affordable and quality options, all fostered by competition. There is no reason in law, policy, or logic for the insurance industry to have special exemptions that are different from all other businesses in the U.S. The government should not be picking winners or losers, and the insurance industry should also have to comply with federal antitrust laws. I am proud of this legislation, which would restore the application of federal antitrust and competition laws to the health insurance industry. Imagine the possibilities when we put the patient first and demand that health insurance companies compete for their business. I will continue to work with the Senators Steve Daines, Mike Lee, and Mitch McConnel to ensure that this legislation is presented to President Trump for his signature.”said Congressman Paul Gosar.
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    GOTTHEIMER FIGHTS TO PROTECT NORTH JERSEY SENIORS, VETERANS IN LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES FROM COVID-19
    Source: U.S. Representative Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ, 5th)
    September 21, 2020
    “With flu season around the corner, I’m here today at this state-run veterans home to ensure we are taking the steps now to prevent another massive COVID tragedy here and at other nursing homes in the coming months,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “Today, I am announcing new bipartisan support for my Nursing Home Pandemic Protection Act, which will help us protect our seniors and long-term care facilities through COVID and other health crises. I’m also calling on the state to take rapid action on testing protocols at our nursing homes. Unfortunately, according to new analysis from the Kaiser Family Foundation, data shows that cases and deaths in facilities may be on the rise again. For the sake of our seniors and veterans, we simply can’t allow history to repeat itself.”
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    Grassley Joins Iowa Colleagues in Urging Congressional Leaders to Replenish Funds for Farmers
    Source: Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA)
    September 21, 2020
    “In Iowa, our farmers have not only suffered lost markets and disrupted supply chains from the COVID-19 pandemic, but they have also been dealing with drought conditions and the destruction caused by the recent derecho which destroyed thousands of acres of crops and farmland. On top of all of this, farmers are planning to receive farm payments this fall and these resources cannot be taken away when they need it the most. Not providing additional funds to the CCC will delay their payments,” the members wrote.
    Read more...

    Sunday, September 20, 2020

    Censorship, Sexual Harassment, NERD Act, Privacy, Military, Police

    New Legislation Is the Latest Attempt by Trump and His Congressional Allies to Bend Online Platforms to Their Political Will
    Source: Free Press
    September 9, 2020
    The legislation, proposed by Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R–Tennessee), Lindsey Graham (R–South Carolina) and Roger Wicker (R–Mississippi), would take away the free hand both platforms and user communities have to moderate and take down objectionable content. The bill would restrict those takedowns only to materials platforms have an “objectively reasonable belief” violates a specific law or is “obscene, lewd, lascivious, filthy, excessively violent, harassing” or is “promoting self-harm, promoting terrorism, or unlawful”.
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    CONGRESSWOMAN GARCIA JOINED CONGRESSWOMAN SPEIER AND CONGRESSMAN MULLIN IN INTRODUCING BIPARTISAN I AM VANESSA GUILLÉN ACT TO TRANSFORM THE MILITARY’S RESPONSE TO SEXUAL VIOLENCE AND MISSING SERVICEMEMBERS
    Source: U.S. Representative Sylvia Garcia (D-TX, 29th)
    September 16, 2020
    This bill is in honor of the late SPC Vanessa Guillén and the many survivors of military sexual violence who have bravely come forward in the wake of her disappearance and brutal murder. The legislation responds to these resounding calls for change by offering provisions that would revolutionize the military’s response to missing servicemembers and reports of sexual harassment and sexual assault by making sexual harassment a crime within the Uniform Code of Military Justice and moving prosecution decisions of sexual assault and sexual harassment cases out of the chain of command. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate today. This morning, following a meeting with the Guillén family, Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced a commitment to hold a House floor vote on the I am Vanessa Guillén Act. President Trump previously announced his support for the bill during a White House meeting with the Guillén family.
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    Gianforte Signs Police Pledge
    Source: U.S. Representative Greg Gianforte (R-Montana at Large)
    September 16, 2020
    “Law enforcement officers in Montana leave their homes every day knowing they may not return. They put their life on the line to protect our communities. To protect them, we must stand firmly against efforts to defund the police,” Gianforte said. “I thank the men and women in blue who serve and make a difference in our communities. I support you.”
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    CASTEN, FRANKEL AND LAWRENCE INTRODUCE BILL TO PROTECT K-12 STUDENTS FROM SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND ASSAULT
    Source: U.S. Representative Lois Frankel (D-FL, 22nd)
    September 17, 2020
    "As our nation has reckoned with the pervasiveness of sexual assault and harassment on college campuses, our K-12 schools have largely been left behind," said Rep. Casten. "Countless K-12 students have experienced sexual violence, but our schools simply don't have the resources and guidance to solve this immense problem. It's my hope that the Stop Sexual Harassment in K-12 Act serves as the first, critical step to upholding K-12 students' Title IX rights."
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    Gallagher Introduces the NERD Act
    Source: U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher (R-WI, 8th)
    September 17, 2020
    "A clean energy future will require nuclear energy to be reliable, affordable, and accessible to the private and public sectors. The first step in getting there is setting the right goals and bringing together the necessary stakeholders to expand our nuclear capacity," said Rep. Gallagher. "I'm proud to introduce the NERD Act, and will continue working to ensure the United States stays competitive across all energy sectors."
    Read more...

    Specifically, NERD Act would:

  • Direct the DOE Secretary to advance the research and development of domestic, advanced, affordable, and clean energy through completing at least 2 advanced reactor demonstration projects by December 31, 2025,
  • Establish a program to create at least 2 and no more than 5 operational advanced nuclear reactor designs by December 31, 2035,
  • Call on DOE to work with private sector partners to identify demonstration sites, and
  • Work towards developing technologies that manage, reduce, or reuse nuclear waste.
  • Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Joins Bill to Protect Americans’ Civil Liberties and Privacy During the Coronavirus Pandemic
    Source: U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI, 2nd)
    September 18, 2020
    “Widespread testing and robust contact tracing are the cornerstone of our public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic and are crucial to keep infection numbers down and defeat the virus,” said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. “However, using technology to help us defeat the virus should not violate our civil liberties. This legislation sets clear rules for technology used in our public health response and requires regular scrutiny to ensure it remains safe and that civil liberties are upheld. Urgent passage of this legislation is necessary to ensure our public health response upholds our commitment to privacy and civil liberties.”
    Read more...

    FEMA, Forced Hysterectomies, Ginsburg, Supreme Court Appointments, Children's Health Insurance, COVID-19 Death Toll, Protect and Serve Act

    Fleischmann, Alexander, Blackburn Lead Letter Urging FEMA to Cease Implementation of Problematic COVID-19 Policy
    Source: U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN, 3rd)
    September 17, 2020
    On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we are writing to express our opposition to FEMA Interim Policy FP 104-009-19. This significant policy change will hurt the state’s ability to respond to COVID-19, prevent states from re-opening schools, and undermine recovery efforts in the middle of a global pandemic. We urge FEMA to stop implementation of this policy immediately.
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    Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Statement on ICE Whistleblower Complaint
    Source: U.S. Representative Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX, 7th)
    September 17, 2020
    “The allegations of abuses, including forced, medically unnecessary hysterectomies at the Irwin Immigration and Customs Enforcement Detention Center, are shocking and horrifying. There must be an immediate and thorough investigation into these allegations and, if they are true, we must take all actions to bring justice for those who suffered these horrific acts. I join in the sentiments expressed by many of my colleagues in their letter to the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security and in their request for a response and briefing to Congress by Friday, September 25.”
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    Finkenauer Statement on Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
    Source: U.S. Representative Abby Finkenauer (D-IO, 1st)
    September 18, 2020
    "Our country has lost a hero, an icon and inspiration for millions of women and girls. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a champion for equal rights and a pioneer in law and politics who dedicated her life to ensuring our laws lived up to our values. I am heartbroken at the news of her passing and offer my sincerest condolences to her family. Her place in history is assured — it’s now up to us to carry on her legacy."
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    Children lose health insurance for 3rd year in a row
    Source: First Focus
    September 18, 2020
    The U.S. Census Bureau has released data that show the number of U.S. children without health insurance rose for the third year in a row, hitting 5.7% in 2019. Hispanic children registered the greatest loss of insurance by far: the uninsured rate among Hispanic children rose a full percentage point, hitting 9.2%, the highest among any race or ethnic group.
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    Senator Fischer’s Statement on the Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
    Source: Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE)
    September 18, 2020
    “I mourn the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and join all Americans in recognizing her dedicated 27 years of service on the Supreme Court.”.
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    FPC: U.S. Senate Must Confirm a Strong Constitutionalist Justice NOW
    Source: Firearms Policy Coalition
    September 19, 2020
    Firearms Policy Coalition calls on President Trump to quickly nominate a strong, courageous, and principled jurist who will vote without hesitation to vigorously protect fundamental rights, including the right to bear arms and freedom of speech, and restore the Constitution’s limits on government. FPC further calls on Senate Leader McConnell and members of the Senate to quickly confirm such a nominee without delay.
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    Foster Statement on COVID-19 Death Toll Passing 200,000
    Source: U.S. Representative Bill Foster (D-IL, 11th)
    September 19, 2020
    "We mourn 200,000 Americans who have been killed by COVID-19 in just six months’ time. That's approaching four times the deaths our country suffered during the Vietnam War, and the death toll continues to rise every day. While the United States has about four percent of the world's population, we've accounted for over 20 percent of the deaths from COVID-19 - a striking indictment of the Trump administration's failure to effectively manage this public health crisis.
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    PROTECT AND SERVE ACT INTRODUCED IN SENATE
    Source: Fraternal Order of Police
    September 19, 2020
    The “Protect and Serve Act” would make it a Federal crime to violently target local, State, or Federal law enforcement officers. The House companion bill was introduced by Representatives John H. Rutherford (RFL), Val Demings (D-FL), Peter A. Stauber (R-MN) and Thomas C. O’Halleran (D-AZ), all of whom are former law enforcement officers.
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    Saturday, September 19, 2020

    Abraham Accords, Ginsburg. Sex Education, COVID-19 Fraud, Temporary Protected Status, Forced Hysterectomies

    Ninth Circuit Affirms That Temporary Protected Status is Temporary and Subject to the Unreviewable Discretion of DHS, Says FAIR
    Source: Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR US)
    September 14, 2020
    “Today’s ruling by the activist Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upholding the Trump administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for individuals from four nations represents a victory for the American people and an unmistakable rebuke to activist judges who seek to make immigration policy from the bench....
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    PRESIDENT TRUMP’S LATEST FOREIGN ACHIEVEMENTS – BRINGING PEACE TO THE MIDDLE EAST
    Source: Faith and Freedom Coalition
    September 16, 2020
    “This week’s peace agreement was an historic event,” said Timothy Head, executive director of the Faith & Freedom Coalition. “No other president has made such advances in the Middle East as President Trump has. This administration understands the importance of maintaining and strengthening peace in the Middle East through fostering respect for human dignity and freedom, including religious freedom, in the region. We expect more peace agreements to be made in the coming months as President Trump advances foreign relations and works to bring religious freedom and peace around the world.”
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    Dr. James Dobson Praises Texas State Board of Education for Protecting Children
    Source: Family Talk
    September 17, 2020
    "For two decades, the Texas State Board of Education has done it the right way. While schools are not required to provide sex education, any sex education that is offered must focus on abstinence until marriage. This commonsense approach has served the needs of Texas children well, and it has respected the God-given role of parents.
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    Family Research Council Statement on the Passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
    Source: Family Research Council
    September 18, 2020
    "I join the American people in offering my condolences and prayers to Justice Ginsburg's family who are mourning the loss of their mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. I pray that God will comfort them during this time of grief. Throughout her 27 years on the U.S. Supreme Court, we were frequently at odds with her opinions. However, her perseverance in facing cancer while continuing to serve as a justice was admirable."
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    Warwick Man Admits to Conspire to Fraudulently Obtain COVID-19 Stimulus Loans
    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation
    September 18, 2020
    David Andrew Butziger, 52, admitted that he conspired with David Adler Staveley, a/k/a Kurt David Sanborn, a/k/a David Sanborn, 53, of Andover, MA, to seek forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA, claiming to have dozens of employees earning wages at four different business, three restaurants and an electronics business, when, in fact, there were no employees working for any of the businesses.
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    Senators to DHS IG: Investigate Alleged Forced Hysterectomies at ICE Facility
    Source: Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA)
    September 18, 2020
    “Forced sterilizations infringe on reproductive rights and autonomy,” the senators wrote. “To understand whether such violations may have been committed against immigrants in our federal government’s custody, the Inspector General’s Office should immediately investigate the reproductive health policies and practices at the ICDC and at other facilities, including but not limited to, all instances of forced, coerced, or medically unnecessary hysterectomies.”
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    Family Research Council Action to hold Virtual Values Voter Summit to Rally Freedom Loving Americans to Pray, Vote, and Stand

    Washington, D.C. - September 19, 2020 - The Ponder News -- On Tuesday evening at 8:00 p.m. ET, the 15th annual Values Voter Summit will kick off. Instead of attending in person, this year values voters will join the all-virtual event from their own homes and churches.

    Confirmed speakers include President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo, Dr. Ben Carson, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Minority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.), Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Pastor Jack Hibbs, Rep. Jody Hice (R-Ga.), Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.), Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), Rep. Mark Walker (R-N.C.), Michele Bachmann, Gary Bauer, Abby Johnson, Bishop Vincent Mathews, Eric Metaxas, Dr. Albert Mohler, Tim Wildmon, Benjamin Watson, Andrew Wommack, Melissa Ohden, Virginia Prodan, Scott Rasmussen, Abigail Shrier, Dr. Carol Swain, Larry Taunton, and Scott Turner, the executive director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, among others.

    This year’s summit will also feature a brand-new episode format. These episodes will feature roundtable discussion and interviews and will stream live September 22-25 from 8:00 - 9:30 p.m. Eastern. Additionally, due to the online format, registration is offered at no charge, providing free access to the nightly episodes, as well as the activist training session, which will stream on September 26 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Eastern.

    Family Research Council Action President Tony Perkins issued the following statement:

    “This year’s virtual Values Voter Summit will serve as the convention of social conservatives. For each of the last 14 years, thousands have traveled to our nation’s capital to give voice to faith, family, and freedom and hear from our nation’s leaders as they make commitments based on those issues. While values voters won’t be attending in person, they can join the summit virtually and receive the tools they need to engage in what I believe is the most consequential election in our Republic’s history.

    “The November election will be a critical test for America. The party platforms offer a stark contrast; the Democratic platform has grown increasingly radical as the far Left expands its influence, while the Republican platform preserves a robust defense of religious liberty, biblical marriage, and pro-life principles. Nothing less than the future of faith, family, and freedom in America is on the ballot this year.

    “All freedom loving Americans must register and then get out and vote. It’s time to pray, vote, and stand,” concluded Perkins.

    To attend the virtual event, register here: www.valuesvotersummit.org.

    Values Voter Summit 2020 sponsors also include AFA Action, American Values, Truth & Liberty Coalition, and Family Research Council. Bott Radio Network is the radio sponsor, and The Christian Post is the first-time media sponsor.

    Thursday, September 17, 2020

    Wildfires, WOTUS, Hydroxychloroquine

    At Wildfire Briefing, Trump Scoffs at Climate Crisis: “I Don’t Think Science Knows”
    Source: Environmental Working Group
    September 14, 2020
    Trump has dismissed the climate crisis as “a hoax” and has said the fires are the result of states failing to clean brush from forest floors. When he met today with California’s Gov. Gavin Newsom, the state’s natural resources secretary challenged him to accept the overwhelming scientific consensus on global warming, which is causing record high temperatures and drying out the forests, triggering unprecedented firestorms.
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    Ernst, Iowa Farmer Highlight Importance of New, Commonsense WOTUS Rule
    Source: Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    September 16, 2020
    In 2015, the Obama Administration finalized a rule that expanded the definition of WOTUS—giving the federal government authority to regulate water on 97 percent of the land in Iowa—and creating confusion and burdensome red tape for Iowa’s agriculture industry and many others. Immediately, Senator Ernst took action and introduced legislation that would have nullified the Obama Administration’s rule. After passing both the House and Senate—with bipartisan support—the bill was vetoed by President Obama.
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    Eshoo and Pallone Blast Administration for Withholding Info on Hydroxychloroquine
    Source: U.S. Representative Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA, 18th)
    September 16, 2020
    “The Trump Administration continues to refuse to release the decision memorandum and denial letter issued by FDA in response to a request for an Emergency Use Authorization for hydroxychloroquine," said Eshoo and Pallone. “The drug has had serious health consequences when used to treat COVID-19, and the public has a right to know the critical scientific information in the agency’s denial of the EUA, especially as the Administration is stockpiling the drug and advancing it during the COVID-19 crisis.”
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