Tuesday, April 30, 2019

Budget

Today's News about Budget Issues





'The American people have to live within their means, so should the leaders of our nation'
Source: Chip Roy (R-TX, 21st)
April 29, 2019
Only in Washington is it considered appropriate to endlessly lift one’s borrowing limit without even a hint of shame or a plan to stop it. We should not raise the debt ceiling without a deal to spend less than the current caps and put us on a path to a balanced budget.

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Immigration

Today's News from the Lawmakers





Pascrell Applauds McAllister Decision
Source: Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ, 9th)
April 26, 2019
“The decision by the Homeland Security Department to allow Mr. McAllister to remain in America is terrific news. Mr. McAllister and his family have set roots in our community. America is where he belongs. I thank Secretary McAleenan for granting a stay. Common sense and human dignity prevailed in his decision. We have fought for decades and will continue to fight and use this time to work towards a permanent resolution for this case.”

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Trump to allow Malachy McAllister to stay
Source: Irish Central
April 26, 2019
Kevin McAleenan, President Trump’s newly-appointed acting secretary of Homeland Security, has granted a request from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to stay the deportation of McAllister, the Washington Examiner reports.

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Native Americans


Today's News about Native Americans





CONGRESSMAN DAVID SCHWEIKERT SUPPORTS TRIBAL COMMUNITIES IN OPPORTUNITY ZONE REGULATIONS
Source: David Schweikert (R-AZ, 6th)
April 29, 2019
“I am pleased to see tribal lands will be included in the economic success opportunity zones will bring to local communities. Tribal communities have long supported local businesses by leasing their land to community members. Now, they will be able participate in the benefits that opportunity zones provide. Thank you to the IRS and Treasury for working to include tribal communities during the comment period for these zones.” said Congressman David Schweikert

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Law Enforcement

Today's News from the Lawmakers





Reschenthaler, Dean Introduce Bill to Support Law Enforcement Officers, Improve Mental Health Care
Source: Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA, 14th)
April 29, 2019
“Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,” said Reschenthaler. “These men and women routinely endure extremely stressful situations, yet the federal government does little to address the consequences of this taxing work. This stress can cause high blood pressure and post-traumatic stress disorder, and has resulted in a suicide rate that is 50 percent higher than the national average. I am proud to work with Congresswoman Dean to fix this wrong and support police officers and their families.”

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Farmers

Today's News about Farmers





PETERSON STATEMENT ON USDA’S DECISION TO EXTEND DEADLINE FOR THE MARKET FACILITATION PROGRAM
Source: Collin C. Peterson (D-MN, 7th)
April 29, 2019
“In my district and across the Midwest, it’s easy to see that weather and other conditions have prevented many farmers from getting their 2018 crop out of the ground. Many of them have raised their concerns with me and this extension is something I’ve been pushing USDA to do. As we’re looking at another round of snow in some parts of Minnesota, this gives those folks more time to finish and certify their harvest from 2018. While these payments are welcome, the Administration needs to stop pretending that the trade bailout will somehow make up for the long-term losses with trade partners like China.”

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Monday, April 29, 2019

Female Genital Mutilation

Today's News about Female Genital Mutilation





Rep. Maloney, Elected Officials, and Women’s Rights Advocates Condemn DOJ Decision to Not Defend Female Genital Mutilation Law and Call for Equal Rights Amendment
Source: Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
April 25, 2019
Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12) joined elected officials, and Equal Rights Amendment advocates to condemn a recent U.S. Department of Justice decision to not defend a federal law banning FGM/C, to call for Speaker Pelosi to step in to defend the law, and call for the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). Congresswoman Maloney is the sponsor of H.J. Res. 35, a bill to restart the ratification process of the ERA.

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Taxes

Today's News about Tax Issues





Tax Hikes are the Wrong Way to Fund Roads and Bridges
Source: Americans for Prosperity
May 1, 2019
“If Congress wants to find money to modernize our roads and bridges, we encourage them to look to their own pockets – Americans have been filling them up for years. Instead of proposing a $2 trillion catch-all ‘infrastructure’ bill and asking hard-working Americans to fund it by paying more at the pump, Washington lawmakers should cut the red tape and stop wasting the tax dollars we give them.”

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Food Retailers Advocate on Tax Reform and Payments with Lawmakers
Source: Food Marketing Institute
May 1, 2019
Grocers and food industry executives will advocate for bipartisan support on “Restoring Investment in Improvements Act” (H.R. 1869 and S. 803), the importance of tax rate reductions and making them permanent, as well as the need to make the payments marketplace more competitive and secure for consumers, merchants, issuing banks and the economy. Attendees will also hear remarks from Deputy Secretary of Treasury, Justin Muzinich, who advised the Secretary on the recent tax reform legislation.

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REPRESENTATIVE MALINOWSKI DEMANDS HOUSE LEADERSHIP PRIORITIZE RESTORING FULL SALT DEDUCTION
Source: Tom Malinowsky (D-NJ, 7th)
May 1, 2019
The letter, sent to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, outlines the burden the cap placed upon the American middle class. The 2017 GOP tax bill directly targeted states like New Jersey and led to the double-taxing of millions of Americans. According to the IRS there are 860,000 middle class households in New Jersey alone that are directly harmed.

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Military

Today's News about Military Issues





Bill would restore rights of servicemembers injured by medical malpractice
Source: American Association for Justice
April 26, 2019
An outdated Supreme Court decision from 1950 established the Feres Doctrine, which prevents active duty military from holding the government accountable for injuries sustained during service, including medical malpractice. The bipartisan bill would restore the right of servicemembers to hold the U.S. Government accountable for non-service-related injuries including surgical items left inside patients, failure to diagnosis advanced cancer, and maternal death following childbirth. This is a right available to all U.S. citizens, except active duty military.

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Mast Introduces Bill To Prevent Hundreds Of Military Rapists From Being Freed From Jail
Source: Brian Mast (R-FL, 18th)
April 26, 2019
U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) announced that he is introducing legislation named Harmony’s Law, which will help prevent hundreds of rapists—who were convicted and found guilty of rape in the military—from being freed from jail on a misconstrued technicality. The bill is named after Harmony Allen, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., who was raped during her third month in the Air Force by her instructor. Despite being found guilty and sentenced to jail time, he was subsequently freed due to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces misinterpreting the Congressionally-mandated statute of limitations.

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Hate Crimes

Today's News about Hate Crimes





U.S. designation of Muslim Brotherhood as terror organization is a crucial milestone for StopAntisemitism.org watchdog
Source: StopAntisemitism.org
May 1, 2019
Yesterday's landmark announcement that the Trump administration is pursuing a foreign terrorist organization designation for the Muslim Brotherhood exemplifies the broad success of StopAntisemitism.org, the watchdog group announced today

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Rep. Peters Statement on Chabad of Poway Synagogue Shooting
Source: Scott Peters (D-CA, 52nd)
April 29, 2019
“Today also marks six months to the day of the tragedy at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. Enough. Enough hate. Enough gun violence. I stand with all Jewish Americans today, especially those in Poway and San Diego.”

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Neal Statement Following Poway Synagogue Shooting
Source: Richard E. Neal (D-MA, 1st)
April 27, 2019
"I am deeply disturbed by the shooting that took place in a CA synagogue yesterday on the last day of Passover where innocent people were killed and injured. We must continue to speak out against anti-semitism in all of its forms."

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REP. JOHN LEWIS DECRIES RAMPANT VIOLENCE IN PLACES OF WORSHIP
Source: John Lewis (D-GA, 5th)
April 27, 2019
“It has come to a point where the people of this nation, and citizens of the world, cannot attend church or safely worship at synagogues or mosques. Violence is so pervasive in our society and in the world community that it has broken through the consecration of the sanctuary and violated our most sacred spaces. How many more lives do we need to lose before we decide to do all we can to bring an end to wanton gun violence in this country?

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Vietnam

Today's News about Vietnam





Congressmen Lowenthal, Correa, and Rouda Commemorate 44th Anniversary of Black April
Source: Alan Lowenthal (D-CA, 47th)
April 29, 2019
On April 30, 1975, Saigon, the capitol of the Republic of Vietnam, was invaded by communist forces in an event that became known as “Black April” or the “Fall of Saigon.” Following the collapse, millions of Vietnamese were forced to leave their homeland in search of freedom. Many found their way to the U.S., where today they comprise a vital and vibrant part of our diverse American family. Each year, Black April is somberly commemorated in Vietnamese American communities across the United States.

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Read also:

VIETNAM BEFORE THE TWENTIETH CENTURY
"ORIGIN AND MEANING OF THE NAME VIETNAM," by Thai Van Kiem


Vietnam should be correctly written as Viet Nam. Viet is the name of the people, which covers the 54 different ethnic groups in the country. Nam means South. Viet Nam means the Viet people living in the South -- according to Vietnam Online

Domestic Violence

Today's News about Domestic Violence





Hoyer Discusses the Importance of Reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act
Source: Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD, 5th)
April 29, 2019
"I was proud to be an original cosponsor of VAWA when it was introduced in 1994 and bring a bill to reauthorize VAWA to the Floor earlier this year," continued Congressman Hoyer. "It's critical that the Senate passes the reauthorization legislation to improve economic assistance and security for survivors of domestic abuse and expand existing grants that make our communities safer. I appreciated today's discussion, and I will continue to work in Congress to advocate for women and families throughout the Fifth District."

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Water

Today's News about Water Issues





Harder Announces SAVE Water Resources Act to Address Central Valley Water Needs
Source: Josh Harder (D-CA, 10th)
April 24, 2019
Representative Josh Harder has announced the Securing Access for the Central Valley and Enhancing (SAVE) Water Resources Act. The bill provides a wraparound approach to addressing water issues facing the Central Valley by increasing storage opportunities, spurring innovation, and making long-overdue investments in our aging water infrastructure. Although water politics are often adversarial, Rep. Harder has spent months sourcing water ideas directly from a wide array of local stakeholders and experts to ensure the final bill attends to the needs of a diverse set of interests. The bill has broad bipartisan support from over a dozen local organizations and elected officials.

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Energy

Today's News about Energy Issues





REPS LIEU, GONZALEZ-COLON, AND PLASKETT INTRODUCE BILL TO PROMOTE RENEWABLE ENERGY IN PUERTO RICO AND THE US VIRGIN ISLANDS
Source: Ted Lieu (D-CA, 33rd)
April 23, 2019
Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County), Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón (R-Puerto Rico), Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett (D-Virgin Islands) introduced the “Renewable Energy for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands Act,” which will empower local communities to develop and use renewable energy sources. The bill creates a grant program for investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, energy storage, smart grids and micro grids projects as well as training local residents. The grants will be awarded to non-profit organizations and the Department of Energy’s National Laboratories may provide technical assistance.

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Coast Guard


Today's News about the Coast Guard





Chairs DeFazio, Maloney, Reps. Garamendi, Larsen, Young Applaud Major Step Forward in Coast Guard’s Plan to Build New Polar Security Cutter
Source: Rick Larsen (D-WA, 2nd)
April 23, 2019
The Chair of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Chair of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY), Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA), Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA), and Congressman Don Young (D-AK) applauded the U.S. Coast Guard’s announcement that it has awarded a contract for the detail design and construction of the first Coast Guard Polar Security Cutter, the first of six planned polar icebreakers. Chairs DeFazio, Maloney, Reps. Garamendi, Larsen, and Young have long championed efforts to address a substantial gap in the Coast Guard’s operational capability in the High North, citing the importance of heavy icebreakers to ensure national security, facilitate commerce, and conduct scientific research and maritime safety missions. Most recently, the members worked successfully to ensure that Congress included $655 million in the Fiscal Year 2019 Consolidated Appropriations Act to begin work on the first icebreaker, as well as $20 million to begin acquiring long lead time materials for a second icebreaker.

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Friday, April 26, 2019

Endangered Species

Today's News about Endangered Species





Golden Asks NOAA Fisheries to Postpone New Right Whale Management Proposals, Challenges Data Behind Potential New Restrictions on Maine Lobstermen
Source: Jared Golden (D-MN, 2nd)
April 23, 2019
“Given the importance of the lobster fishery to Maine’s economy, I am deeply troubled by the manner in which the TRT intends to carry out its goal of reducing right whale mortalities by sixty to eighty percent and the impact its actions may have on the future viability of our lobster fleet,” wrote Golden. “I find it difficult to understand how a comprehensive strategy to protect an endangered species can be developed and agreed upon when the management tool relies on outdated inputs and was only made available days before the TRT meeting… I encourage NOAA Fisheries and the TRT to postpone its rulemaking so that it can develop an improved risk assessment tool that has the support of impacted stakeholders.”

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UN Arms Treaty

Today's News about the UN Arms Treaty





Trump withdraws from UN arms treaty as NRA crowd cheers in delight
Source: The Guardian
April 26, 2019
Addressing the National Rifle Association (NRA) in Indianapolis, the president said he would revoke America’s status as a signatory of the arms trade treaty regulating conventional weapons including small arms, battle tanks, combat aircraft and warships.

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Banking and Finance

Today's News about Banking and Finance Issues




As House Convenes on Predatory Lending, Consumer Advocates Press for Congressional Action on Payday Debt Traps
Source: Americans for Financial Reform
April 25, 2019
The hearing on payday lending comes at a time when the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is nearing the end on a public comment period on its plan. The CFPB is proposing to rescind key consumer protections on payday lending, namely the ability-to-repay provision that mandates that lenders offer affordable loans.

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Foster Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Promote Financial Literacy for Students
Source:
April 25, 2019
“In our increasingly complex financial marketplace, young people often find themselves lacking the knowledge to make tough financial decisions that can have profound effects on their futures,” Congressman Foster said. “Studies have shown that promoting financial literacy at an early age helps equip young people to make sound financial decisions that will set themselves up for success.”

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Medicaid

Today's News about Medicaid




FINKENAUER LEADS LETTER TO HHS INSPECTOR GENERAL
Source: Abby Finkenauer (D-IO, 1st)
April 24, 2019
Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer (IA-01) led members of the Iowa delegation in a letter supporting the US Department of Health and Human Services’ investigation into whether Medicaid managed care organizations have complied with federal requirements when denying patients access to requested services and prescriptions. Finkenauer was joined by Congresswoman Cindy Axne (IA-03) and Congressman Dave Loebsack (IA-02) in the letter to HHS Inspector General Daniel Levinson.

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ACE Kids Act Becomes Law
Source: Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA, 3rd)
April 23, 2019
“This health care solution to benefit low-income children has been a long time coming, and I couldn’t be more proud to finally have it signed into law. Now, tens of thousands of low-income kids who suffer complex medical diagnoses like cancer or congenital heart disease will have an easier time accessing the life-saving treatment they need. Families should be able to pursue the best doctors and facilities for their kids, regardless of where they live or how much they make – and with the ACE Kids Act finally becoming law, that’s now a reality for more of them,” Herrera Beutler said.

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Noise Pollution

Today's News about Noise Pollution



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Eshoo, Speier, Panetta Release Further Updated FAA Initiative Response to Address Aircraft Noise Concerns of the Constituents of Congressional Districts 14, 18 and 20
Source: Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA, 18th)
April 23, 2019
“The Federal Aviation Administration released their updated response to the collective recommendations of the Select Committee on South Bay Arrivals and the San Francisco International Airport/Community Roundtable,” the Representatives said. “These two bodies developed consensus-based recommendations and sub-recommendations, which the FAA has worked to address.”

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Who Wants to Impeach the President?

Today's News about People Who are Talking about Impeachment





The Ponder does not support impeachment.

DeGette: The president’s actions constitute a prima facie case to merit an impeachment investigation
Source: Diana Degette (D-CO, 1st)
April 23, 2019
The Mueller report details many instances in which President Trump actively attempted to interfere with the investigation into his campaign’s potentially treasonous ties with Russia. The president's actions are clearly beneath the high personal, ethical and legal standards our founders envisioned in the executive branch, and, as such, constitute a prima facie case to trigger an impeachment investigation.

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Thursday, April 25, 2019

Social Media

Today's News from the Lawmakers





Facebook expects up to $5B FTC fine
Source: Politico
April 24, 2019
...Facebook faces scrutiny over a cascade of other privacy mishaps over the past year. Researchers this month revealed hundreds of millions of records on the social network's users were left unprotected on Amazon's cloud servers. Facebook disclosed in March that it had insecurely stored hundreds of millions of user passwords. And The Wall Street Journal reported in February that a slew of well-being apps shared sensitive user data with the company.

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Ponder this...

Today's News about Things to Ponder



Motorcycle Shipping Quotes


Should Natural Born Citizenship Be a Requirement for All Federal Elected Offices?
Source: American Thinker
April 24, 2019
...It is fitting, albeit ironic, that Omar, a naturalized American citizen, by raising an accusation of dual loyalty and self-dealing against other Americans, has opened the door to a conversation about whether natural born citizenship should in fact be a requirement for the very office she holds.

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Surveillance

Today's News about Surveillance Issues





CDT Leads Coalition of Over 100 Organizations Opposing DHS Surveillance of Activists, Journalists, and Lawyers
Source: Center for Democracy and Technology
May 1, 2019
The Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT) led a coalition of over 100 organizations in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) urging it to cease any targeting of activists, journalists, and lawyers based on their First Amendment-protected speech and associational activities. The coalition demanded that DHS address alarming reports of surveillance activity by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that jeopardizes First Amendment rights and access to legal counsel, and may violate the Privacy Act of 1974.

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New Documents Reveal DHS Asserting Broad, Unconstitutional Authority to Search Travelers’ Phones and Laptops
Source: Electronic Frontier Foundation
May 1, 2019
The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) and the ACLU asked a federal court to rule without trial that the Department of Homeland Security violates the First and Fourth Amendments by searching travelers’ smartphones and laptops at airports and other U.S. ports of entry without a warrant.

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When License-Plate Surveillance Goes Horribly Wrong
Source: The New York Times
April 24, 2019
The pitfalls of automated policing, where one piece of bad information can lead to a guns-drawn confrontation.

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Children and Minors

Today's News about Children and Minors





Congressman Cárdenas Introduces the End Debtor’s Prison for Kids Act
Source: Troy Cardenas (D-CA, 29th)
April 24, 2019
Right now, across this country, young people are being held in detention centers not for crimes they committed at home or in school, but because they can’t afford the legal fees of our justice system.

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Prescription Medication

Today's News about Prescription Drugs




Spanberger Announces Support for Bipartisan Bill to Increase Competition in the Pharmaceutical Marketplace, Lower Prescription Drug Costs
Source: Abigail Spanberger (D-VA, 7th)
April 24, 2019
Spanberger is now a cosponsor of the Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act of 2019, which would prohibit pharmaceutical companies from participating in certain anti-competitive practices that block cheaper generic drugs from entering that market. The bipartisan bill would increase competitive options for prescription drugs by cracking down on pharmaceutical companies’ ability to delay access to generic versions of expensive brand-name drugs.

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Drug Take-back Day
Source: Trey Hollingsworth (R-IN, 9th)
April 24, 2019
The Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is this Saturday, April 27. From 10AM - 2PM, you can properly dispose of expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs to support ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic that is facing our communities.

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Cummings Releases Report on the Soaring Prices of Diabetes Drugs in his District
Source: Elijah Cummings (D-MD, 7th)
April 24, 2019
Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD), Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, released a Committee Staff Report on the prices of diabetes drugs for seniors and the uninsured in Maryland’s 7th Congressional District. More than 30 million people in the United States, including more than one in four seniors, have diabetes. Patients with diabetes rely on prescription drugs, including insulin, to help manage their conditions.

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Following Prescription Drug Roundtable, Rep. Davids Supports Bills to Lower Prescription Drug Costs
Source: Sharice Davids (D-KS, 3rd)
April 24, 2019
“During our roundtable discussion, I heard from so many families in the Third District who are struggling to pay for the prescription drugs that they or their loved ones depend on to survive. These bills would help drive down prescription drugs prices and increase transparency and oversight, giving our families some much-needed relief,” said Davids.

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Cummings Releases Report on the Soaring Prices of Diabetes Drugs in his District
Source: Elijah Cummings (D-MD, 7th)
April 24, 2019
Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD), Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, released a Committee Staff Report on the prices of diabetes drugs for seniors and the uninsured in Maryland’s 7th Congressional District. More than 30 million people in the United States, including more than one in four seniors, have diabetes. Patients with diabetes rely on prescription drugs, including insulin, to help manage their conditions.

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Space

Today's News about Space





Rep. Jason Crow Leads Letter Calling on U.S. Space Command to be Based at Buckley Air Force Base
Source: Jason Crow (D-CO, 6th)
April 24, 2019
“Colorado has a proud aerospace tradition and Buckley Air Force Base is a powerful testament to that. As a former Army Ranger and member of the Armed Services Committee, I know the threats facing our country in the 21st century and the role that space will play in our national security. Buckley - and Aurora - is the right place for U.S. Space Command. We have the right infrastructure, a talented aerospace workforce, and the community support to ensure the success of U.S. Space Command,” said Rep. Jason Crow. “Placing Space Command at Buckley Air Force Base would be an incredible gain for Aurora and the Denver metro area and a boon for our economy. Space Command would fuel job growth for decades to come and solidify Colorado’s role as the global aerospace leader.”

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Natural Disasters

Today's News about Natural Disasters



books


Missouri Delegation Urges President Trump to Support Disaster Declaration for Areas Impacted by Severe Flooding
Source: Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO, 5th)
April 24, 2019
“The severity and magnitude of the flooding has caused several communities to be evacuated and has resulted in the destruction of homes, farms, and businesses,” the delegation wrote. “We respectfully request your prompt action to ensure that these communities receive the immediate support needed to respond to the disaster. Along with our fellow Missourians, we appreciate your attention to this request and stand ready to assist in any way possible.”

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Worker's Rights

Today's News about Worker's Rights


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Following Supreme Court Ruling, Cicilline Plans Hearing on Workers’ Rights
Source: David Cicilline (D-RI, 1st)
April 24, 2019
“It is disappointing that the Supreme Court is taking the side of big corporations once again. This ruling undermines the rights of working people to band together and hold corporations accountable. It’s just wrong.”

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Health Insurance

Today's News about Health Insurance




Statement from Chairman Yarmuth on CBO Report on Single-Payer Policy Considerations
Source: House Committee on the Budget
May 1, 2019
“Last summer, I promised that if I became Chairman of the House Budget Committee I would hold hearings on single-payer health care. To jump start that process, I immediately requested this report from the CBO to help us examine the important policy considerations associated with single-payer health systems and their potential impact on the federal budget, national health care spending, and access to care.

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FAH Leader Reacts to CBO Report on Single-Payer
Source: Federation of American Hospitals
May 1, 2019
Today's CBO report on single-payer health care raises sobering questions. But what needs to be asked, is it worth the risk of upending health care for every American when the law on the books already contains a roadmap to universal coverage? Instead of such a high stakes gamble, lawmakers should build upon the current foundation so we can continue to improve quality and affordability for families across the country.

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CBO report looks at policy considerations for single-payer health system
Source: American Hospital Association
May 1, 2019
Establishing a single-payer system would be a major undertaking that would involve substantial changes in the sources and extent of coverage, provider payment rates, and financing methods of health care in the United States, according to a report released today by the Congressional Budget Office. The report focuses on key design components and considerations for policymakers interested in establishing a single-payer system, but “does not address all of the issues that the complex task of designing, implementing and transitioning to a single-payer system would entail, nor does it analyze the budgetary effects of any specific bill or proposal,” CBO notes. Among other topics, the report includes high-level discussions about hospital ownership, provider employment and payment rates, but does not make any recommendations.

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AMA on ruling blocking administration’s Title X restrictions
Source: American Medical Association
May 1, 2019
“Judge McShane’s ruling is a victory for patients, physicians and the open conversations that are essential to improving health outcomes. In siding with patients and doctors in this case, the judge decisively said the free exchange of medical information is an essential patient right. The AMA will not stand by when the government interferes with the patient-doctor relationship by foisting a gag rule on physicians. Patients trusting their doctors is the foundation of good health, and there must be open communication about health care options.”

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Scalise Statement on Louisiana Efforts to Protect Patients with Pre-Existing Conditions
Source: Steve Scalise (R-LA, 1st)
May 1, 2019
"As we have been working to fix serious problems with our healthcare system in Washington, I have also been following the healthcare debate in the Louisiana Legislature. We should all want a quality healthcare system that lowers costs, gives patients more choices, and protects people with pre-existing conditions from higher costs, while also improving the quality of care for everyone.

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Burgess Acts to Protect North Texans’ Health Care
Source: Michael Burgess (R-TX, 26th)
April 24, 2019
“Association health plans expand opportunities for Americans to choose insurance that meets their needs, and for employers to provide quality insurance to their employees. As a physician who once owned my own practice, I am encouraged that these plans allow employers, by partnering together, to offer quality coverage that can be more affordable,” said Dr. Burgess. “This strategy is working – in North Texas, several chambers of commerce already have begun offering health plans to their members through the North Texas Employer Health Plan Cooperative. Although federal courts have jeopardized the individuals in North Texas and around the country who are covered by existing association health plans, I have introduced this legislation to protect Americans’ access to quality care.”

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First Responders

Today's News about First Responders



Goji berries



Carbajal to Announce Bill Expanding Disability Benefits for Federal Firefighters

Source: Salud Carbajal (D-CA, 24th)
April 24, 2019
“When a fire breaks out it means all hands on deck to protect our communities, regardless of whether you are a federal, state or municipal firefighter,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The threshold for federal firefighters to prove work-related illness is much higher than their civilian counterparts here in California and around the nation. This legislation gives our brave federal firefighters the healthcare benefits that they deserve for putting themselves in harm’s way to protect us all.”

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Environment and Climate

Today's News about Environment and Climate Issues




Senior US military officials tour the Arctic as the region copes with changing climate and shifting security demands
Source: US Air Force
May 1, 2019
A contingent of senior Air Force leaders and other high-ranking officials are visiting multiple locations across the Arctic April 27-May 3 in an attempt to better understand operational challenges and refine approaches for meeting the changing security dynamics in the region

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Free Market Groups Oppose House Attempt to Reinstate Harmful Paris Treaty
Source: Competitive Enterprise Institute
May 1, 2019
The Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI), joined by 16 organizations – including Heritage Action, FreedomWorks, and Americans for Limited Government – sent a letter today to the House of Representatives opposing H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act. The legislation, if enacted, would reverse the decision made by President Trump to withdraw the United States from the damaging Paris climate treaty.

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Phillips Co-Sponsors Bipartisan Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act
Source: Dean Phillips (D-MN, 3rd)
May 1, 2019
“We didn’t leave the Stone Age because we ran out of rocks. We found a better way of doing things,” said Phillips. “Climate change is an urgent problem and we need to reach a solution as quickly as possible. The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act empowers a new generation of innovators to do just that. Everyone has a stake in preserving our planet and finding ways to make a green economy possible.”

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Mucarsel-Powell Urges Prioritization of Climate Change Research in FY2020 Appropriations
Source: Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-FL, 26th)
May 1, 2019
“Not only is President Trump denying the threat to South Florida posed by climate change is real, but he is impeding our country’s ability to fight it by not prioritizing scientific research,” said Mucarsel-Powell. “The effects of climate change are getting worse by the day: our coastlines are crumbling faster, our drinking water is becoming dirtier, and extreme weather patterns are becoming more common. We must spur innovation to address climate change now. Trump’s attempts to eliminate climate change research from the budget are reckless and put South Florida in danger. Congress should do right by South Florida and fully fund climate research today.”

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AMS celebrates two years of building the case for conservative, pro-growth solutions to climate change
Source: Alliance for Market Solutions
May 1, 2019
AMS supports a pro-growth policy that would eliminate harmful regulations and replace them with a revenue-neutral carbon tax that enables markets, instead of government, to allocate resources, stimulate innovation and capital investment, support clean energy, and effectively reduce carbon pollution.

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Congressman Francis Rooney Urges Congress to Consider the Effects of Damaging Chemicals on our Coral Reefs
Source: Francis Rooney (R-FL, 19th)
April 29, 2019
Congressman Rooney sent a letter to Chairman Grijalva and Ranking Member Bishop of the House Natural Resources Committee requesting a hearing on the Defending Our National Marine Sanctuaries from Harmful Chemicals Act (H.R. 1834).

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Pallone and Piscataway Officials Stress Need for Federal Energy Efficiency Program to Combat Climate Change in New Jersey
Source: Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ, 6th)
April 29, 2019
Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), State Senator Bob Smith, and Mayor Brian Wahler touted the need to pass legislation to authorize funding for state and local energy efficiency and conservation programs to help reduce the effects of climate change in New Jersey.

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Congressman Pappas reacts to EPA's PFAS standards and reports of DoD pressure to weaken them
Source: Chris Pappas (D-NH, 1st)
April 26, 2019
On Thursday the EPA announced new standards on the issue of PFAS that are at odds with recent health studies. A recent report by the New York Times reveals that the Department of Defense played a part in pressuring the EPA to weaken the newly released standards. New Hampshire's First Congressional District has been significantly impacted by the presence of PFAS contaminants, including communities across the Seacoast near Pease Air National Guard Base and communities around the St. Gobain factory in Merrimack.

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Kaptur Introduces Legislation to Reestablish Civilian Conservation Corps
Source: Marcy Kaptur (D-OH, 9th)
April 24, 2019
“The magnitude of the Civilian Conservation Corps and the incredible work it accomplished is hard to overstate,” said Rep. Kaptur. “At the height of the Great Depression, the CCC successfully lifted millions of Americans out of poverty while constructing hundreds of national, state, and local parks – parks that countless Americans enjoy to this day. The 21st Century CCC will emulate the success of the original program, while taking steps to address the unique and important issues we face today, including the effects of climate change.”

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REPRESENTATIVE ADRIANO ESPAILLAT ADDRESSES IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE
Source: Adrianno Espaillat (D-NY, 13th)
April 24, 2019
During remarks before the Full House Foreign Affairs Committee Markup to address various issues, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) spoke on the urgency to put forth policies that will address the existential threat of climate change and the impact to communities around the nation.

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CASTEN, NEGUSE, AND LEVIN LEAD FRESHMAN LETTER URGING PRIORITIZATION OF CLIMATE ISSUES IN FY2020 APPROPRIATIONS
Source: Sean Casten (D-IL, 6th)
April 24, 2019
“As you consider the Fiscal Year 2020 (FY 2020) Appropriations bills, we urge you to provide robust funding for our nation’s climate change research programs,” reads the opening of the letter from Neguse, Levin and Casten. “We have an opportunity and a moral obligation to act on climate, and this responsibility must be built on the foundation of robust and sustained climate research funding. As the freshman class of the 116th congress, we urge appropriators to recognize the timely nature of this crisis by robustly funding climate science in FY 2020 and beyond,” the letter goes on to say.

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Wednesday, April 24, 2019

Donald Trump (did/said) WHAT?


News about Donald Trump's Latest Antics



President Trump SUES House Democrats To Halt Demands For His Financial Records
Source: The Daily Wire
April 22, 2019
President Donald Trump and the Trump Corporation filed suit Monday against House Democrats, led by House Oversight Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings (D-MD), to prevent the committee from issuing subpoenas seeking the president's financial records, both from his companies and from an accounting firm hired to handle Trump finances.

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Veterans

Today's News about Veteran's Issues




Congressmen Tim Ryan and Conor Lamb Introduce The Whole Veteran Act to Promote Overall Mental Health and Wellness
Source: Tim Ryan (D-OH, 13th)
April 29, 2019
“Twenty veterans die by suicide every day in the United States. That’s unacceptable. Some of the wounds our veterans face aren’t always visible, so we need to do a better job of providing them with the mental health resources and tools needed to get on the path to recovery,” said Congressman Ryan. “The Whole Veteran Act will advance our efforts to ensure critical Whole Health programs—including chiropractic services, whole health group services, meditation, and yoga—are available and accessible at every VA facility. Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country. We owe it to them to provide the care they need when they return home.”

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Rep. Cuellar Announces Over $2 Million for Webb County’s Veterans Court Program
Source: Henry Cuellar (D-TX, 28th)
April 24, 2019
Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $2,000,000 over the next 5 years in federal funding for Webb County’s Veterans Court Program awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The funds will go to support the continuation of Webb County’s Veteran Court Program which will be able to provide 200 veterans in areas of Webb County, Zapata, Jim Hogg, Starr, Duvall and Jim Wells County with individualized treatment for co-occurring psychiatric and substance use disorders

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Trump Admin Responds to Buchanan Over Vets Suicides
Source: Vern Buchanan (R-FL, 16th)
April 24, 2019
The Trump administration has assured Congressman Vern Buchanan that it is taking aggressive steps to curb the growing number of suicides among veterans and members of the armed forces.

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Medical Research

Today's News about Medical Research





Davis Announces the Jonny Wade Pediatric Cancer Research Act with the Wade Family and HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital Doctors
Source: Rodney Davis (R-IL, 13th)
April 24, 2019
U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) yesterday announced the introduction of the Jonny Wade Pediatric Cancer Research Act (H.R. 2234) at HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital and toured the pediatric oncology floor. Davis was joined by the Wade family from Jerseyville who lost their 8-year-old son, Jonny Wade, to brain cancer Christmas Eve 2015 and doctors from HSHS St. John’s Hospital and SIU Medicine.

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CONGRESSMAN BOYLE LEADS CONGRESSIONAL EFFORT TO INCREASE FUNDING FOR LUNG CANCER RESEARCH
Source: Brendan Boyle (D-PA, 2nd)
April 24, 2019
Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) led a bipartisan letter urging the Appropriations Committee to increase funding for lung cancer research, especially with regard to the disease’s disproportionate impact on young women who have never smoked. Boyle released the following statement upon the submission of his letter.

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Criminal Records and Rehabilitation

Today's News about Criminal Records and Convict Rehabilitation Issues





Norton Introduces Bills to Remove Halfway House Subsistence Fees and Co-pays for Federal Inmates During Second Chance Month
Source: Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.)
April 29, 2019
In recognition of Second Chance Month, which is in April, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) has announced she has introduced two bills regarding Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) inmates and returning citizens. First, she introduced the Fairness in Federal Bureau of Prisons Medical Care Act of 2019, which would remove the copay BOP inmates are required to pay to visit a BOP-provided doctor. Currently, BOP inmates are required to “pay a fee for health services of $2.00 per healthcare visit.” While $2.00 may seem insignificant, when inmates earn only twelve to forty cents per hour on their work assignments, $2.00 is substantial.

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Blunt Rochester, Reschenthaler Introduce Bipartisan Federal Second Chance Legislation
Source: Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Delaware at Large)
April 24, 2019
Representatives Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE-AL) and Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA-14) introduced H.R. 2348, the Clean Slate Act. The bipartisan bill would automatically seal an individual’s federal criminal record if they have been convicted of simple possession or any federal nonviolent offense involving marijuana, and it would create a groundbreaking new procedure that allows individuals to petition the United States Courts to seal records for nonviolent offenses that are not automatically sealed.

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Broadband Infrastructure

Today's News about the Broadband Infrastructure





USDA Opens Application Portal for New ReConnect Rural Broadband Infrastructure Program
Source: Jack Bergman (R-MI, 1st)
April 23, 2019
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting online applications for funding through the new ReConnect Rural Broadband Pilot Program. These funds will enable the federal government to partner with the private sector and rural communities to build modern broadband infrastructure in areas with insufficient internet service. Insufficient service is defined as connection speeds of less than 10 megabits per second download and 1 megabit per second upload.

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Housing

Today's News about Housing Issues





Congresswoman Beatty Celebrates Fair Housing Month
Source: The Stuff Gazette
April 24, 2019
“Thanks to the Fair Housing Act, Americans have the right to live where they choose, regardless of race, gender, religion, disability, and family status. But the dream of equal housing opportunity is far from fulfilled; still today, it is legal to refuse housing based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and institutional racism continues to make it very difficult for people of color to access affordable, quality housing. I will not rest until every hardworking family in Central Ohio and beyond can access housing that best meets their needs.”

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Israel

Today's News about Issues Relating to Israel



Reps. Allen and Lieu Introduce Bipartisan Resolution in Support of U.S.-Israel Economic Relationship
Source: Rick Allen (R-GA, 12th)
April 22, 2019
“I am proud to join Congressman Lieu today as we work in a bipartisan manner to introduce H. Res 324, which recognizes the significance of our nation’s strong and meaningful economic relationship with the state of Israel. Israel has been one of our most beloved allies and we must continue to stand in solidarity with this beacon of democracy. I look forward to advancing our mutually beneficial friendship and partnership with Israel for years to come.”

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Forest Management

Today's News from the Lawmakers




O'HALLERAN JOINS DELEGATION TO URGE U.S. FOREST SERVICE TO ADDRESS ARIZONA FOREST HEALTH
Source: Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ, 1st)
April 26, 2019
“In recent years, fires have ravaged Arizona communities and destroyed our precious natural resources, which is why I have worked tirelessly to expedite the Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI) through the Farm Bill, the appropriations process, and in conversations with the United States Department of Agriculture,” Congressman Tom O’Halleran said. “4FRI is important for the responsible management of our forests and the protection of our state from the effects of fires. I am glad to see members of the delegation joining together to support my efforts to protect Arizona’s forests and water.”

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Wyden, Merkley Press USDA to Ensure Timely Implementation of Conservation and Forest Management Programs
Source: Senator Ron Wyden- (D - OR)
April 24, 2019
“While the desire to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely is commendable, we worry that this additional and extraordinary review of routine agreements will have serious effects on field operations,” the senators wrote. “With busy and potentially dangerous summer months quickly approaching, it is imperative the USDA and their partners begin seasonal programming, including necessary wildfire prevention efforts.”

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Jobs and Employment

Today's News about Jobs and Employment Issues



336x280 CISSP - Get 5 Exams


VAN HOLLEN, LEE CALL ON OPM TO RESCIND POTENTIAL NEW HIRING RULES
Source: Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD)
April 24, 2019
U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) have written to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Acting Director Margaret Weichert urging her to revoke the current Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 84 FR 5733, which would expand the seven-year criminal background check lookback to include participation in any pretrial diversion or intervention programs.

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Small Business

Today's News about Small Business





Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Small Businesses Restructure Debt
Source: Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC)
April 22, 2019
“The current one-size-fits-all method that dictates the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process unfairly disadvantages small businesses. This bipartisan legislation is a common sense approach to streamlining existing bankruptcy procedures while also providing new tools for small businesses looking for a successful path through restructuring,” said Senator Tillis.

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Medicare

Today's News about Medicare






Shelby Praises CMS Proposal to Adjust Medicare Wage Index
Source: Senator, Richard C.Shelby (R-AL)
April 24, 2019
U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today praised the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announcement regarding the Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) proposed rule that provides relief from the increasing disproportion of reimbursement to hospitals created by the Medicare wage index. While CMS uses wage index data based on regional labor costs to determine Medicare reimbursement levels for hospitals in a particular area, many hospitals – particularly in Alabama – have been negatively affected as a result of flawed data.

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Abortion

Today's News about Abortion






REP. MARSHALL RESPONDS TO KANSAS ANTI-LIFE SUPREME COURT RULING
Source: Roger Marshall (R-KS, 1st)
April 26, 2019
Congressman Marshall released the following statement on the Kansas Supreme Court 6-1 decision that ruled the state constitution guarantees the right to an abortion.

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Congressman Lamborn's Statement on Title X
Source: Doug Lamborn (R-CO, 5th)
April 25, 2019
On March 4th 2019, the Department of Health and Human Services revised its regulations of the Title X program requiring a clear physical and financial separation between Title X recipients and programs in which abortion counseling occours. Recently, Congressman Lamborn joined 152 of his colleagues standing with HHS and upholding America's longstanding tradition of not using taxpayer money to fund or otherwise subsidize abortion.

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Shaheen Statement on Federal Court Ruling to Block Trump’s Domestic Gag Rule
Source: Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)
April 24, 2019
“This is welcome news and I’m relieved for the thousands of Granite Staters who rely on Planned Parenthood and other family planning clinics for their health care,” said Shaheen. “The court’s action was urgently needed as the domestic gag rule is rooted in a dangerous partisan effort to interfere in women’s access to reproductive health care services. This is another assault by the Trump administration on women’s Constitutional rights. While I’m encouraged by this temporary injunction, we’re not out of the woods yet. I’ll continue to stand up to the President’s incessant attacks on women’s health and I urge Republicans to join Democrats in this effort to protect health care access for Granite Staters and Americans across the country.”

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Yemen

Today's News about Yemen



Sanders Calls for Veto Override Vote on Yemen Resolution
Source: Senator Bernard Sanders (I-VT)
April 22, 2019
U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders called on his colleagues Monday to support a vote overriding President Donald Trump's veto of a resolution directing the removal of United States armed forces from the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen.

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Gender Equality

Today's News about Gender Equality



Target pushes for U.S. government to punish churches and Christian business owners
Source: The American Family Association
May 1, 2019
The so-called "Equality Act" is nothing more than a repackaged version of the Employment Non Discrimination Act (ENDA). This legislation has been driven for years by rabid homosexual activist groups like Human Rights Campaign and is specifically designed to place sexual liberty above religious liberty and the First Amendment.

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Key Committee Approves Equality Act, House Must Follow Suit
Source: The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
May 1, 2019
“Discrimination is wrong and runs counter to the fundamental American values of freedom and equality. Today’s committee vote takes us one step closer to ensuring equal opportunity and dignity for all LGBTQ individuals in America. We applaud Chairman Nadler and Congressman Cicilline for their leadership, and committee members for rejecting amendments that would dilute the legislation’s protections. The Equality Act is long overdue, and the House of Representatives must pass the bill.”

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LEADING RETAILERS URGE PASSAGE OF EQUALITY ACT
Source: Retail Industry Leaders Association
May 1, 2019
"RILA appreciates the opportunity to work with members of the Judiciary committee and stakeholders to advance this important legislation that promotes opportunity and inclusion in America’s workforce. Retail is the first job, second chance, or third act for millions of American workers. RILA and our members are committed to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all people, whether they are employees, customers, or business partners. We urge the House to pass this important legislation that will help retailers continue to shape an inclusive workforce that is diverse, skilled, and innovative.”

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WHY IS THE EQUALITY ACT IMPORTANT TO THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY?
Source: National LGBTQ Taskforce
May 1, 2019
Currently, there are no explicit federal protections from discrimination protecting the LGBTQ community. This means that in 30 states, LGBTQ people can be denied housing, jobs, service in public spaces and more, solely because of who they are. This is an issue of national urgency.

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Historic Committee Vote Advances the Equality Act Toward House Floor
Source: Transequality.org
May 1, 2019
The Equality Act—a landmark civil rights bill that would clarify and strengthen basic protections to LGBTQ people nationwide—was successfully voted out of the House Judiciary Committee today.

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Our time is NOW We Will Ratify the Equal Rights Amendment
Source: National Organization for Women
May 1, 2019
The ERA, which was first introduced nearly 100 years ago, would be a strong prohibition against any government action that would discriminate on the basis of sex. Furthermore, it would encourage the adoption of other laws and policies that aim to end sex-based discrimination. There is abundant evidence that those in power often seek to pass laws or promote policies that disadvantage women. The ERA would be a powerful antidote to those abuses, particularly those aimed at immigrant women, women working in low-wage jobs, women of color, women with disabilities and the LGBTQIA community.

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Tell The Truth About ERA
Source: Eagle Forum
May 1, 2019
Democrats led a sham hearing on the Equal Rights Amendment. The House Judiciary Subcommittee on Constitution, Civil Rights and Civil Liberties chose six panelists to argue the points in favor of the ERA. The panel was stacked in Democrats’ favor. The panelists included two Democrat Congresswomen, one ERA activist, one liberal celebrity, and one professor of law. While the professor, Elizabeth Foley, argued that the ERA would not hold up in court due to the seven-year deadline that passed in 1979, she expressed her support for the substance of the amendment. ERA opponents were shut out and not allowed to give testimony.

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Patricia Arquette, Alyssa Milano Join Members and Advocates in Call for ERA
Source: Jackie Speier (D-CA, 14th)
May 1, 2019
Congresswoman Speier is the House sponsor of H.J. Res. 38, the ERA joint resolution to remove the arbitrary deadline to ratify that was included in the preamble of the original constitutional amendment in 1972. The United States is just one state shy of meeting the three-fourths threshold set by Congress for ratification of the ERA

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Rosen Holds Equality Act Press Conference with LGBTQ Nevadans, Calls on Congress to Pass the Equality Act
Source: Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
April 23, 2019
“It is shameful that in this day and age members of the LGBTQ community still face discrimination. I am a proud cosponsor of the Equality Act, which explicitly prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in education, employment, housing, credit, jury service, public accommodations, and the use of federal funds.” said Senator Rosen. “This Administrations recent ban of transgender individuals from military service is the latest in a long line of assaults on the rights and liberties of LGBTQ people. I will continue to support legislation that promotes respect and tolerance for all of our fellow Americans."

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Iranian Oil

Today's News about Iranian Oil





Rep. Tulsi Gabbard: Trump’s Iran Sanctions Increase Tensions, Escalating His March to War Against Iran
Source: Liz Cheney (R-Wyoming at large)
April 23, 2019
“President Trump seems determined to go to war with Iran, even after he campaigned on the platform of ending regime change wars. Trump’s move yesterday to deny sanctions waivers to countries purchasing Iranian oil drives us closer to war with Iran, increasing tensions in the region, and putting the U.S. at odds with many of our allies. His actions make our country less safe, damaging our non-proliferation efforts and negotiations to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula,” said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. “The Trump Administration continues to do the bidding of Saudi Arabia without regard for our own national security and economic interests. It is in our national security interest to rejoin the Iran nuclear agreement, and in that regard, lift the sanctions that are hurting the Iranian people. Whatever concerns we may have apart from Iran’s nuclear program can be dealt with in separate agreements.”

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Cheney Applauds President Trump’s Decision to Zero Out Iranian Oil Exports
Source: Liz Cheney (R-Wyoming at large)
April 22, 2019
“The Trump Administration today took an essential step in its maximum pressure campaign against the hostile regime in Tehran. Oil is a significant source of revenue for Iran. By not granting these exceptions for the import of Iranian oil, the President is underscoring a clear message: when it comes to depriving Tehran of funding for its terror network, nothing is off the table. With this move, the Trump Administration is rightfully putting those who continue to import Iranian oil on notice.”

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Senator Markey Opposes Trump Administration’s Decision to End Sanctions Waivers for Countries Importing Iranian Oil
Source: Senator Edward J.Markey (D-MA)
April 22, 2019
“Today’s announcement is bad for U.S. foreign policy and bad for American consumers,” said Senator Markey. “We should have stayed in the Iran deal, which was working. This administration’s tunnel vision on Iran has already cost us in terms of credibility by going back on our word. Having already harmed our relationship with Europe, the Trump administration is now choosing to punish our allies South Korea and Japan as we try to face the threat posed by North Korea.

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