Friday - March 29, 2024
U.S. Congressional Tipoffs Involving Texas Newsletter for Sunday November 24, 2019 ( 86 items )  

Castro Questions Lt. Col Vindman, Williams During Third Impeachment Hearing of President Trump
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Vice Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and a member of the House Intelligence and Education and Labor Committees, today had the following exchange with Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman and Jennifer Williams, during the highly anticipated third open impeachment hearing, where the American people continued to hear the e  more

Castro Questions Volker, Morrison During Fourth Impeachment Hearing of President Trump
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Vice Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and a member of the House Intelligence and Education and Labor Committees, today had the following exchange with Kurt Volker and Tim Morrison, during the highly anticipated fourth open impeachment hearing, where the American people continued to hear the evidence for themsel  more

Chairman Bernice Johnson Issues Statement at Hearing on Structuring Moon-Mars Program for Success
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The House Science, Space and Technology subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics issued the following statement by Chairman Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, at a hearing entitled "Keeping Our Sights on Mars Part 2: Structuring a Moon-Mars Program for Success": "I want to welcome both of our distinguished witnesses to today's hearing. Neither of you is a stranger to this Committee. We have benefited from your thoughtful perspectives and advice on multiple occasions, and I have  more

Chairwoman Bernice Johnson Issues Statement at Hearing on Strengthening Transparency in EPA Rulemaking
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The House Science, Space and Technology Committee issued the following statement by Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, at a hearing entitled "Strengthening Transparency or Silencing Science? The Future of Science in EPA Rulemaking": "I would like to welcome our witnesses to today's hearing -- "Strengthening Transparency or Silencing Science? The Future of Science in EPA Rulemaking." "We are here today to discuss a proposed rule that EPA released last year, entitl  more

Chairwoman Bernice Johnson Issues Statement at Hearing on Vaccine Science, Innovation
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- The House Science, Space and Technology Committee issued the following statement by Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, at a hearing entitled "Fighting Flu, Saving Lives: Vaccine Science and Innovation": "Good morning and welcome to today's hearing on vaccine science and innovation. "Smallpox once plagued the world's population, killing approximately 300 million people in the 20th century alone. Smallpox is the only human disease to be eradicated, thanks to the de  more

Chairwoman Bernice Johnson Issues Statement at Hearing on Water, Geothermal Power
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The House Science, Space and Technology subcommittee on Energy issued the following statement by Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, at a hearing entitled "Water and Geothermal Power: Unearthing the Next Wave of Energy Innovation": "Good afternoon and thank you, Chairman Lamb, for holding this timely hearing on two very important renewable energy resources, water and geothermal power. "Water and geothermal power are some of this country's and the world's oldest fo  more

Chairwoman Johnson Responds to Science Committee Minority Members' Letter of Concern
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, issued the following news release: Today, Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) replied to a letter she received yesterday from the Republican Members of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. The Chairwoman's letter reaffirms that the Science Committee's agenda under her leadership has and will continue to be constructive, bipartisan, and address strategies   more

CHARGE Forward for Green Energy: Doggett Bill Drives Investment in Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Today, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), a senior Member of the Ways and Means Committee and a longtime member of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) and the Safe Climate Caucus, introduced the Electric Vehicle Charging Helps Access to Renewable Green Energy (CHARGE) Act of 2019, which would provide enhanced incentives for publicly accessible electric vehicle charging infrast  more

Cornyn Pushes to Strengthen NADBank in New Trade Agreement
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) emphasized the importance of ratifying the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which would include provisions to bolster the North American Development Bank (NADB), improving cross-border trade between the U.S. and Mexico. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn's floor remarks are below, and video can be found here (https://youtu.be/Xje3H0tPXEE). "I'm also hoping that t  more

Cornyn, Cuellar Announce $183,000 Grant for Victims of Sutherland Springs Shooting
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: The Department of Justice will award a $183,717 Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program (AEAP) grant to assist victims of the November 5, 2017 shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced. The grant will be awarded to the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division to provide  more

Cruz Urges U.S. to Take Swift Action Russia's Nord Stream 2
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Today, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released a new video about the dangers of Russian President Vladimir Putin's natural gas pipeline, Nord Stream 2, which is expected to be completed by January 2020. In the video, he warned: "Nord Stream 2, if completed, would help Russia. It would strengthen Putin. It would generate billions of dollars that could be used to fu  more

House Homeland Security Subcommittee Sets Hearing Examining Human Rights, Legal Implications of DHS, Mexico Policy
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- The House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Border Security, Facilitation and Operations issued the following hearing information: Examining the Human Rights and Legal Implications of DHS' 'Remain in Mexico' Policy at 310 Cannon House Office Building at 10 a.m. on Nov. 19: Witnesses: * Laura Pena, Pro Bono Counsel, American Bar Association Commission on Immigration * Erin Thorn Vela, Staff Attorney, Racial and Economic Justice Program, Texas Civil Rights Project * To  more

House Science, Space & Technology Committee Sets Hearing on Future of Advanced Carbon Capture Research, Development
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- The House Science, Space and Technology Committee issued the following hearing information: Field Hearing: The Future of Advanced Carbon Capture Research and Development at Hilton University of Houston Waldorf Astoria Ballroom, Houston, Texas, at 10:15 a.m. on Nov. 22: Witnesses: * Ramanan Krishnamoorti, Chief Energy Officer, Professor of Chemical Engineering, University of Houston * Jeffrey Long, Faculty Senior Scientist, Materials Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley   more

House Science, Space & Technology Committee Sets Hearing on Future of Advanced Carbon Capture Research, Development
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- The House Science, Space and Technology Committee issued the following hearing information: Field Hearing: The Future of Advanced Carbon Capture Research and Development at Hilton University of Houston Waldorf Astoria Ballroom, Houston, Texas at 10:15 a.m. on Nov. 22: Witnesses: * Ramanan Krishnamoorti, Chief Energy Officer, Professor of Chemical Engineering, University of Houston * Jeffrey Long, Faculty Senior Scientist, Materials Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley N  more

House Small Business Committee Issues Testimony From American Association of Colleges of Nursing
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- The House Small Business Committee issued the following testimony on Nov. 14 by Nancy Fahrenwald, dean and professor at the Texas A&M University, testified on behalf of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, at a hearing entitled "Upskilling the Medical Workforce: Opportunities in Health Innovation": "I am Nancy Fahrenwald, Dean and Professor at Texas A&M University College of Nursing, which educates over 400 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate nursi  more

House Ways & Means Committee Sets Hearing on U.S.-Japan Trade Agreements
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- The House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade issued the following hearing information: U.S.-Japan Trade Agreements at 2020 Rayburn House Office Building at 10 a.m. on Nov. 20: Witnesses: * Darci Vetter, Global Lead, Public Affairs; Vice Chair, Agriculture & Food, Edelman U.S. Public Affairs * Matthew Goodman, Senior Vice President; Simon Chair in Political Economy; Senior Adviser for Asian Economics, Center for Strategic & International Studies * Josh Nassar, Legisl  more

National Parks Caucus Co-Chairs Urge for Floor Vote on Bipartisan Park Maintenance Bill
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Will Hurd, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Yesterday, National Parks Caucus co-chairs U.S. Reps. Will Hurd (TX-23) and Ron Kind (WI-03) led a bipartisan letter from the Caucus yesterday urging House Leadership to bring the Restore Our Parks and Public Lands Act to the House floor for a vote. This bipartisan bill works to reduce the nearly $12 billion backlog the National Park Service (NPS) faces to repair critical park infrastructure and passed out of th  more

Rep. Allred Bill That Prevents $960 Million in Cuts to Texas Federal Transportation Funds Included in CR, Passes House
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Colin Allred, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32), a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, today announced that his bipartisan transportation bill, H.R. 3612, was included as language in the must-pass Continuing Resolution. The Continuing Resolution passed with bipartisan support today. The bill will repeal a provision that prevents Texas from receiving about $960 million in federal transportation   more

Rep. Allred Introduces Bill to Bolster Outreach on Child Care and Leave at Higher Ed Institutions
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Colin Allred, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32) today introduced the Helping Student Parents Succeed Act. The bill requires higher learning institutions to post on their website their policies regarding leaves of absence related to pregnancy or adoption of a child, as well as any policies related to making up missed work, lactation accommodations, the availability of child care, and housing for students with dependents. "St  more

Rep. Allred Supports Bill on Pipeline Safety in Transportation Committee
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Colin Allred, D-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * - Since 2006, Nine People Died and 22 Injured in Gas Explosions in North and Central Texas * * * Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32), a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, voted to pass the SAFER Pipelines Act out of committee today. The bill reauthorizes pipeline safety programs overseen by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). This bill, in pa  more

Rep. Babin Issues Statement Recognizing Port of Beaumont for Receiving BUILD Grant
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Rep. Brian Babin, R-Texas, issued the following statement recognizing the Port of Beaumont for being awarded a BUILD grant: "I am pleased that U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Elaine Chao awarded a BUILD Grant to the Port of Beaumont for $18 million. "It was a pleasure to work with both Port and DOT officials to secure this extremely competitive and highly sought-after grant. These funds will be instrumental in helping the Port strategically enhance our   more

Rep. Brady Announces Senior Staff Change for Ways and Means Republicans
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following news release: Today, the top Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee Kevin Brady (R-TX) announced changes to his senior staff team for the Committee, including naming J.P. Freire as the new Director of Communications: "We are excited to welcome J.P. as the new head of our communications team. Throughout his years in both journalism and communications,  more

Rep. Buchanan Issues Statement at Hearing on U.S.-Japan Trade Agreements
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following opening statement at a hearing on U.S.-Japan trade agreements: Before the start of today's hearing, Rep. Buchanan and Rep. Kevin Brady (R-TX), the top Republican on the Committee, sent a letter (https://republicans-waysandmeansforms.house.gov/uploadedfiles/brady-buchanan_letter_to_blumenauer_on_japan_hearing.pdf) to Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E.   more

Rep. Carter Introduces Survivors Victory Day Resolution
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. John Carter, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Representative John Carter (TX-31) reintroduced today a resolution recognizing November 19th as Survivors Victory Day in honor of constituent, Jessica Huber, from Leander, Texas. At just 19 months old, Jessica Huber was nearly killed after her mother ran a red light near Manor and wrecked into a truck going 70 miles per hour. Jessica's mother was under the influence of narcotics and alcohol at the time, and Je  more

Rep. Carter Issues Statement After Voting Against Continuing Resolution Appropriations Bill
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. John Carter, R-Texas, issued the following statement after voting against the continuing resolution appropriations bill: "A couple of months ago, Congress passed a short-term CR that I was hopeful would give appropriators time to get their work done, but the work is still far from complete. "I never want to see a government shutdown but governing under the threat of a shutdown is no way to responsibly govern, and funding through short-term continuing resolutions is   more

Rep. Castro Questions Hill, Holmes During Seventh Impeachment Hearing of President Trump
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Vice Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and a member of the House Intelligence and Education and Labor Committees, today had the following exchange with Fiona Hill and David Holmes, during the highly anticipated seventh open impeachment hearing, where the American people continued to hear the evidence for themsel  more

Rep. Castro Questions Sondland During Fifth Impeachment Hearing of President Trump
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Vice Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and a member of the House Intelligence and Education and Labor Committees, today had the following exchange with Ambassador Gordon Sondland, during the highly anticipated fifth open impeachment hearing, where the American people continued to hear the evidence for themselves  more

Rep. Cheney, Sens. Cruz, Graham Issues Joint Statement on Announcement to End Fordow Civil Nuclear Waiver for Iran
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyoming, Republican chair and member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following joint statement with Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina, members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, applauding the Trump administration for announcing the end of the Fordow civil nuclear waiver for Iran: "We applaud President Trump and Secretary of State Pompeo for today's news that the Trump administration will finally end  more

Rep. Conaway Bill Renaming Odessa VA Clinic Passes Congress
WASHINGTON, Nov. 23 -- Rep. K. Michael Conaway, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Thursday, the Senate passed H.R. 2334 to rename the Odessa VA Clinic to the "Wilson and Young Medal of Honor VA Clinic." The bill will now head to the President's desk for his signature. This bill, authored by Congressman Mike Conaway (TX-11), honors two heroes from Odessa, Texas, United States Marine Corps Private First Class Alfred "Mac" Wilson and United States Army Staff Sergeant Marvin Rex Young, w  more

Rep. Conaway Issues Statement After USDA, Trade Representative Announced Deal With South Korea
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. K. Michael Conaway, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Agriculture Committee, issued the following statement after the Agriculture Department and U.S. Trade Representative announced a deal for guaranteed market access for U.S. rice in South Korea: "I am pleased that President Trump has inked yet another win for American agriculture, securing guaranteed access for U.S. rice to the South Korean market. "This follows recent announcements including China l  more

Rep. Conaway Issues Statement on Release of 2nd Annual Audit Within DoD
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Rep. K. Michael Conaway, R-Texas, issued the following statement regarding the release of the second annual audit within the Department of Defense: "I am pleased to see the completion of the second annual audit of the Department of Defense. This audit is the continuation of years of hard work and determination across multiple administrations and leadership changes within the department. "Performing an audit for one of the largest and most complex organizations in the wor  more

Rep. Crenshaw Joins Ranking Member Walden in Debunking Pelosi Drug Pricing Plan
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * - Video Series Explains Bad Policy, Partisan Politics of Speaker's Drug Pricing Scheme * * * Representative Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) joined Energy and Commerce Republican Leader Greg Walden (R-OR) in a video series aimed at providing the facts on Speaker Pelosi's partisan plan for fewer cures. "Speaker Pelosi's partisan bill is packed with bad policy that will drive out innovation and result in fewer cure  more

Rep. Cuellar Announces $2.33 Millin for TAMIU's Online Family Nurse Practitioner Program
LAREDO, Texas, Nov. 22 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * - Funding will work to fix nursing shortages in Texas by increasing opportunities to practice medicine * * * Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $2,330,291 for Texas A&M International University (TAMIU)'s Online Family Nurse Practitioner Program (TOFP). This online program will ensure more Hispanic students have the opportunity to practice medicine and help address the nursing shortage in   more

Rep. Cuellar Meets With Laredo Constituents to Discuss Wall Construction
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) the Vice Chair of the U.S. House of Representatives Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, met with Melissa Cigarroa, Board President of The Rio Grande International Study Center, as well as Laredo constituents to discuss Trump Administration's efforts to seize private Texas lands, including Eli Jackson Cemetery, for the construction of the border wall. "The Trump A  more

Rep. Cuellar Votes to Keep Government Open, Fund Critical Programs in South Texas
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * - Continuing Resolution Contains No Money for Border Wall * * * Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) voted for a Continuing Resolution (CR) that will extend federal government funding through December 20th, allowing additional time for lawmakers to complete the formal appropriations process. This resolution will also fund critical programs for the people of the 28th District of Texas, including Medicare  more

Rep. Cuellar, Sen. Cornyn Announce $183,717 for Victims of Shooting at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) and U.S. Senator John Cornyn announced $183,717 in federal funds for victims of the shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs. These funds, from Department of Justice's Office for Victims of Crime, will be used to provide crisis response and consequence management support services to help victims continue to heal and cope with the effects of this day. "Our S  more

Rep. Escobar Issues Statement on Latina Equal Pay Day
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, issued the following statement in recognition of the Latina Equal Pay Day: "While today is an important reminder of the egregious Latina wage gap that exists, we know that gender-based pay discrimination is an issue that affects Latinas every day of the year, putting a strain on hard-working women and undermining the economic stability of our families. "Despite the progress made in recent years to close the gender wage gap, today, Latinas   more

Rep. Escobar Issues Statement on Trump Administration's Plan to Build Migrant Detention Facility in El Paso
EL PASO, Texas, Nov. 22 -- Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, issued the following statement after the Earthjustice released documents detailing the Trump administration's plan to build a migrant detention facility at the Fort Bliss Army Installation: "The information exposed by environmental groups is beyond disturbing and confirms the Trump administration's lack of true leadership as well as its complete disregard for the safety and dignity of the human beings in their custody. "We know that a   more

Rep. Fletcher Issues Statement at Hearing on Future of Earth Prediction Innovation Center
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following opening statement at a hearing on the future of the Earth Prediction Innovation Center: "Welcome to the Subcommittee on Environment's hearing entitled "A Task of EPIC Proportions: Reclaiming U.S. Leadership in Weather Modeling and Prediction." I would like to thank all of our witnesses for being here today to discuss the current state and future of the Earth Prediction Innovation Center, or EPIC, and its role in improvin  more

Rep. Fletcher Issues Statement Voting Against SAFER Pipelines Act
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following statement after voting against the Safe, Accountable, Fair and Environmentally Responsible Act Pipelines Act (H.R. 5120), otherwise known as SAFER Pipelines Act, at the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee: "Ensuring that our nation's pipeline network operates in a safe manner should be a priority for every member of Congress. In past years, when Congress has voted to reauthorize the Pipeline and Hazardous M  more

Rep. Flores Issues Statement on Washington
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Rep. Bill Flores, R-Texas, issued the following statement regarding the latest from Washington: "This week, Nancy Pelosi and Adam Schiff continued their unfair impeachment sham. This unfortunate activity is crippling the House's ability to address the critical issues that hardworking Texas families care about most. Rather than working on a bipartisan full-year funding bill, House Democrats produced a last-minute, short-term continuing resolution just hours before having a  more

Rep. Garcia Issues Remarks on Export-Import Bank Reauthorization Bill
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, issued the following remarks: Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4863, the United States Export Finance Agency Act of 2019, which would reauthorize the Export-Import (EX-IM) Bank for ten years and increase its lending authority to $175 billion dollars. The EX-IM Bank is the official credit agency of the United States that support U.S. companies with remaining competitive with foreign exporters. The bill also includes new provision  more

Rep. Gonzalez Announces $1,243,658 for University of Texas Rio Grande Valley for Special Education Training Program
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced $1,243,658 in funding from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs for a five-year program called Project PLEASE (Program for Leaders to Educate and Advocate for Special Education) at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). Project PLEASE will train 14 district educators from the Rio Grande Valley to administer  more

Rep. Gonzalez Announces USDA Disaster Designation for Karnes, Duval, Wilson, Live Oak Counties
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue approved a Secretarial disaster area designation on November 6, 2019 for the following counties in the 15th District of Texas: Karnes, primary; and contiguous, Live Oak, Wilson, Duval. With this designation, those affected by recent drought are qualified to be considered for Farm Service Agency (FSA  more

Rep. Gonzalez Issues Statement on U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to Include Security as Part of Trade Deal
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following statement on Twitter urging Mexico and U.S. to include security in discussions for the passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement: Security for cross-border commerce and tourism remains a major concern for Congressman Gonzalez as Mexican highways are vulnerable to crime. "The single greatest threat to trade and prosperity with Mexico is not environment, labor, agriculture, or prescription drug pricing. It's insecurity  more

Rep. Green Issues Statement on Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care Bill
HOUSTON, Texas, Nov. 22 -- Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, issued the following statement regarding the passage of his amendment to the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act (H.R. 1309): "The Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act - H.R. 1309 - addresses the alarming rates of violence against professionals working in the health care and social service industries. These workers face rates of violence up to 12 times higher than   more

Rep. Lee, Eight Colleagues Issue Statement on Secretary Pompeo, Trump Administration Announcement for Israeli Settlements
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Rep. Barbara Lee, D-California, issued the following statement with eight congressmen - Reps. David Price, D-North Carolina, Jan Schakowsky, D-Illinois, John Yarmuth, D-Kentucky, Gerry Connolly, D-Virginia, Peter Welch, D-Vermont, Alan Lowenthal, D-California, Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, and Earl Blumenauer, D-Oregon - issued the following joint statement on Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's announcement that the Trump administration would no longer consider Israeli settlements  more

Rep. Lizzie Fletcher Fights Against Workplace Violence
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) voted in favor of H.R. 1309, the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act, a bill she co-sponsored, that requires the Department of Labor to address workplace violence in health care and social services. The bill passed the House with bipartisan support, 251 to 158. Health care and social service workers are four times as like  more

Rep. Lizzie Fletcher's Legislation to Protect Health of First Responders Passes Committee
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher's (TX-07) legislation to direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue guidance to protect the health of first responders when using foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to fight fires passed the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. PFAS are a group of chemicals used in a variety of industries, including in the foam used to put out chemical  more

Rep. Michael McCaul and Ivanka Trump Meet With Human Trafficking Survivor
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Michael T. McCaul, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Courtney Litvak, a Katy, TX resident, joined Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10) and Ivanka Trump, Advisor to the President, to discuss the prevalence of human trafficking in our communities and how to improve the way our country combats this heinous crime and takes care of survivors. At 17-years-old, Courtney Litvak was swept into a human trafficking ring after being coerced into the wrong crowd. From th  more

Rep. Olson Issues Statement on Democrat Spending Bill
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Pete Olson, R-Texas, issued the following statement after voting against (H.R. 3055), the Democrats' Continuing Resolution for government spending: "This 'new normal' of passing partisan spending bills and refusing to work with House Republicans or the Senate, which results in stop-gap spending measures, must end. "Congress has a critical role to keep our government properly funded and operational. "It was wrong when it happened under GOP control and it's wrong n  more

Rep. Olson Issues Statement on Disaster Relief Bill
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Pete Olson, R-Texas, issued the following statement after voting against (H.R. 3702), a disaster recovery bill: "The intent of this bill is laudable, and I respect my colleague Rep. Al Green for working to address current flaws in disaster recovery efforts. "However, in its current form, this bill does not address key flaws in the current CDBG-DR program and would result in disparity in federal housing elevation standards, blocks the use of FEMA funds for Army Corp  more

Rep. Peterson Announces Addition of Theriot, Elevation of Daniels on House Ag Staff
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Rep. Collin C. Peterson, D-Minnesota, chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, issued the following news release: House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson of Minnesota announced two additions to Committee staff on Friday. Luke Theriot will serve as Professional Staff. Theriot has worked for several former Members of Congress and comes to the Committee from the office of Rep. Filemon Vela of Texas, where he served as Senior Policy Advisor. He has worked in  more

Rep. Roy Issues Statement on House Passage of Continuing Resolution
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, issued the following statement after the House passed a continuing resolution: "Today I went down to the House floor and objected to a House Rule being adopted by unanimous consent. This Rule would have set up consideration of the continuing resolution (CR) from Friday, Nov. 22 through December 20. Why did I object? I'm tired of the people of this body carrying out these 'swamp tactics.' "What do I mean swamp tactics? The House was going to put fo  more

Rep. Schakowsky, Eight Colleagues Issue Statement on Secretary Pompeo, Trump Administration Announcement for Israeli Settlements
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Illinois, issued the following statement with eight congressmen - Reps. David Price, D-North Carolina, Barbara Lee, D-California, John Yarmuth, D-Kentucky, Gerry Connolly, D-Virginia, Peter Welch, D-Vermont, Alan Lowenthal, D-California, Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, and Earl Blumenauer, D-Oregon - issued the following joint statement on Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's announcement that the Trump administration would no longer consider Israeli settlements  more

Rep. Taylor, Bipartisan Group of Veterans Take on Korean War Veterans Memorial Project
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Van Taylor, R-Texas, issued the following news release: This morning, Congressman Van Taylor (TX-03) joined a bipartisan group of U.S. Representatives and veterans to landscape and preserve the Korean War Veterans Memorial as a show of respect and gratitude for fallen Korean War soldiers and American veterans. The gathering was a symbol of gratitude as well as a unifying experience on the last day of session before the November district work period, which begins Fri  more

Rep. Taylor, GWOT Veterans Take Bipartisan Run on National Mall
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Van Taylor, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Before sunrise on Tuesday, Congressman Van Taylor and a bipartisan group of lawmakers who served in the War on Terror took a sunrise run on the National Mall to raise awareness for the Global War on Terrorism Memorial. The run follows the introduction of legislation, H.R. 5046, the GWOT Memorial Location Act, last week. The bill, which has bipartisan support from thirty-three Members of Congress, would authoriz  more

Rep. Thornberry Issues Statement on Vote Against Continuing Resolution
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, issued the following statement regarding the vote against another continuing resolution: "Once again, our servicemembers are being held hostage by political games. Every CR is wasteful and damages the ability of our military to carry out their vital missions. "The compromise signed into law in July determined how much would be spent on defense this year, yet four months later nothing has happened. Congress needs to put aside other considerat  more

Rep. Thornberry: Damaging Defense - How A Continuing Resolution Will Cut Defense
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following news release: This week Congress will kick the can down the road once again and enact another wasteful Continuing Resolution. As Secretary of Defense Esper said last week, "CRs disrupt training, impede readiness, delay maintenance, impose uncertainty on the workforce, & induce inefficient & constrained contracting practices." These stop-gap measures do more  more

Rep. Williams Issues Statement on Continuing Resolution
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, issued the following statement after voting against the continuing resolution, or short-term spending bill, to fund the federal government: "Rather than fulfilling our constitutional duty to fund the government by passing responsible legislation, we are once again continuing the cycle of wasteful spending in Washington at the expense of our national security. "If we are going to tackle the national deficit, the government must operate withi  more

Rep. Young: Alaska Congressional Delegation Tours F-35 Plant in Texas
FORT WORTH, Texas, Nov. 18 -- Rep. Don Young, R-Alaska, issued the following news release: * * * - Views Aircraft Destined for Alaska * * * Today, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski, Dan Sullivan, and Congressman Don Young, all R-Alaska, alongside military and community leaders from Interior Alaska, toured Lockheed Martin's F-35 assembly plant and were shown the first F-35As that will eventually be stationed at Eielson Air Force Base beginning in the spring of 2020. During the visit, the delegatio  more

Reps. Conaway, Johnson Issue Remarks on Review of USDA Civil Rights Office
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Reps. K. Michael Conaway, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Agriculture Committee, and Dusty Johnson, R-South Dakota, ranking Republican member of the Subcommittee on Nutrition, Oversight and Department Operations, issued the following remarks at a hearing to review the Agriculture Department's Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights: "Ms. Earp's testimony highlighted her lifelong commitment to civil rights and her continued fight for those who fa  more

Reps. Conaway, Scott Issue Remarks at Hearing on Credit Conditions From Farm Credit Administration
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Reps. K. Michael Conaway, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Agriculture Committee, and Austin Scott, R-Georgia, ranking Republican member of the Subcommittee on Commodity Exchanges, Energy and Credit, issued the following remarks at a hearing to receive an update on credit conditions from the Farm Credit Administration: "With net farm income struggling, it's now more important than ever to examine the soundness of the Farm Credit System to make certain that   more

Reps. Garcia, Gooden Introduce Managed Stablecoins Are Securities Act of 2019
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (D-TX) and her colleague Congressman Lance Gooden (R-TX) introduced the Managed Stablecoins are Securities Act of 2019. This piece of legislation would protect consumers against certain cryptocurrencies, such as Facebook Libra Project. The bill would clarify that "managed stablecoins" are securities under the Security Exchange Act of 1934 and thus regulated by the Security and Exch  more

Reps. Green, Wagner Issue Statements on Reforming Disaster Recovery Act
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Reps. Al Green, D-Texas, and Ann Wagner, R-Missouri, issued the following statements after the House passed the Reforming Disaster Recovery Act (H.R. 3702): Green said: "For 26 years, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has administered the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery Program (CDBG-DR), to deliver crucial funding for those impacted by natural disasters and other catastrophic events. Since then, billions of dollars have been   more

Reps. Veasey, Wright Introduce the National Medal of Honor Monument Act
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * - Legislation Will Recognize Arlington, Texas As Home Of Upcoming National Medal of Honor Museum * * * Today, North Texas Congressmen Marc Veasey (TX-33) and Ron Wright (TX-06) introduced the bipartisan National Medal of Honor Monument Act. The legislation will recognize the city of Arlington, Texas as the new home of the National Medal of Honor Museum and also create a monument in Washington, D.C. to   more

Reps. Walden, Burgess Issue Statement on Full Committee Passage of Bipartisan Maternal Health Bills
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Rep. Greg Walden, R-Oregon, ranking Republican member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following joint statement with Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the Subcommittee on Health, on bipartisan bills to improve maternal health that advanced at the full committee markup: "These bipartisan bills further this Committee's mission to address maternal mortality and improve the health outcomes in expectant or new mothers. "Last Co  more

Schumer's Graveyard: Drug Pricing, Funding for Schools, Troop Pay Raises
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) highlighted bipartisan bills that have been denied a vote by U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY), including his bipartisan bill to lower drug prices. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn's floor remarks are below, and video can be found here (https://youtu.be/WQAwkQDjWZI). Click here to watch the video (https://youtu.be/WQAwkQDjWZI). "He said, 'Democrats a  more

Sen. Cornyn Issues Statement on Bill to Enhance Cybersecurity Programs at University of Texas at San Antonio, Texas A&M
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following statement: * * * - Bill Would Allow DHS to Work with Consortium to Train States, Local Governments on Cybersecurity * * * U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act, legislation that would authorize the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to work with the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC) to help prepare for and respond  more

Sen. Cornyn: Houston's Dr. Hahn is Right Man to Lead FDA
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Today U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced Houstonian Dr. Stephen Hahn, the nominee to lead the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn's floor remarks are below, and video can be found here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2EYtvLyDB0&feature=youtu.be). "For the past five years, Dr. Hahn has helped lead the Universi  more

Sen. Cruz Applauds FAA for Implementing Critical Safety Measures for Commercial Balloon Pilots
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * - FAA announces inclusion of Cruz's Commercial Balloon Pilot Safety Act in Fall 2019 Unified Agenda * * * The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) this week announced that they are implementing safety measures for commercial balloon operations as required by U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz's (R-Texas) bill, the Commercial Balloon Pilot Safety Act of 2017. Sen. Cruz, chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation and Space,  more

Sen. Cruz Renews Calls for Senate to Pass Bipartisan Bill to Stop Nord Stream 2 Pipeline
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * - Sen. Cruz: If U.S. Fails to Halt Russia's Nord Stream 2 Pipeline, We Will Have Vastly Strengthened Putin's Hands at the Expense of the Rest of the Free World * * * U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today raised his concerns with President Trump's nominee to be Deputy Secretary of State, Stephen Biegun, about the dangers of Russia's Nord Stream 2, a natural   more

Sen. Cruz: 'What's Happening in the House Has Become an Absolute Circus' Discusses Impeachment, Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, and the Democratic Debate on the Ben Shapiro Show
HOUSTON, Texas, Nov. 22 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) on Thursday appeared on the Ben Shapiro Show where he discussed the House Democrat's impeachment inquiry, which he described as a 'circus,' as well as the Senate's unanimous passage of the bipartisan Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act and the Democratic presidential debate. Listen to the full interview here (https://youtu.be/TVt1UVGqYvY). On impeachment, Sen. Cruz said: "Wh  more

Sen. Cruz: Right Now in Hong Kong, Cause for Freedom Has Never Been Greater
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: The six-month clash between protestors and Hong Kong police has escalated to new extremes as the Hong Kong police began last week to target Hong Kong universities and campuses in violent, fire-fueled attacks against students. As tensions continue to intensify in Hong Kong, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released a video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8EKmx_Fw80&f  more

Sen. Cruz: The People of America Stand With Hong Kong
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today delivered remarks on the Senate floor urging his colleagues to pass the bipartisan Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, legislation he co-sponsored that supports pro-democracy dissidents in Hong Kong. The bill, which passed the Senate unanimously, includes a provision of a bipartisan bill Sen. Cruz introduced to amend the Un  more

Sen. Cruz: Why the U.S. Must Stop Issuing Civil-Nuclear Waivers
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * - Sen. Cruz leads bicameral legislation to revoke civil-nuclear waivers established by the catastrophic Obama-Iran nuclear deal and issued by the Trump administration * * * U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, along with Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), introduced a bill last week that would require the administration to revoke civil nuc  more

Sen. Sullivan, Alaska Congressional Delegation Tours F-35 Plant in Texas
FORT WORTH, Texas, Nov. 18 -- Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, issued the following news release: * * * - Views Aircraft Destined for Alaska * * * Today, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski, Dan Sullivan, and Congressman Don Young, all R-Alaska, alongside military and community leaders from Interior Alaska, toured Lockheed Martin's F-35 assembly plant and were shown the first F-35As that will eventually be stationed at Eielson Air Force Base beginning in the spring of 2020. During the visit, the delega  more

Senate Health Committee Sets Hearing on Nomination of Hahn as Commissioner of Food and Drugs
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 -- The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee issued the following hearing information: Nomination of Stephen M. Hahn to serve as Commissioner of Food and Drugs at 430 Dirksen Senate Office Building at 10 a.m. on Nov. 20: Witnesses * Stephen M. Hahn, Houston, Texas To watch the video of the committee hearing, click here: https://www.help.senate.gov/hearings/watch?hearingid=C0ECF316-5056-A066-60B5-AE3084EADB8B  more

Senate Passes Leahy Bill to Formalize National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Sen. Patrick J. Leahy, D-Vermont, issued the following news release: The U.S. Senate Thursday night passed legislation written and introduced by Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) to formally charter a National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC), which includes Norwich University. Norwich University is a key player in NCPC, a cooperative effort of universities with expertise in cybersecurity that work with the Department of Homeland  more

Sens. Cornyn, Cruz Issue Statements on Confirmation of U.S. Marshal for South Texas
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following statements after the Senate confirmed T. Michael O'Connor as U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Texas: "Sheriff O'Connor is well-prepared for this leadership role after serving the residents of Victoria County for years in law enforcement," said Sen. Cornyn. "I thank my colleagues in the Senate for supporting his confirmation, and I applaud Sheriff O'Connor for his continued willingness to serv  more

Sens. Cornyn, Whitehouse Introduce Bill to Recognize Former Inmates Who Are Successfully Rehabilitated
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) today introduced the Recognizing Education, Employment, New Skills, and Treatment to Enable Reintegration (RE-ENTER) Act, which would allow federal judges to issue a Certificate of Rehabilitation to acknowledge an eligible offender who has successfully reintegrated into society. These certificates can help formerly incarcerated individuals find jobs  more

Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Introduce Bill to Protect Water Supply Future of Texas
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) on Thursday introduced the Public Water Supply Invasive Species Compliance Act. The bill would provide certainty to water agencies who supply water to Americans in Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana, by ensuring that interstate water transfers between the three states are not shutdown as a result of the Lacey Act, which affects trade in wildlife, fish, or plants a  more

Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Issue Statements on Confirmation of U.S. Marshal for South Texas
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following statements after the Senate confirmed T. Michael O'Connor as U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Texas: "I am grateful for Sheriff Michael O'Connor's commitment to law enforcement and willingness to serve our nation and Texans in the Southern District as US Marshal," Sen. Cruz said. "Sheriff O'Connor is well-prepared for this leadership role after serving the residents of Victoria County for ye  more

Sens. Cruz, Cornyn, Rep. Conaway Issue Statements on Bill Renaming Odessa VA Clinic Passing Congress
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following statements with Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Rep. Mike Conaway, R-Texas, on Senate passage of a bill (H.R. 2334) to rename the Odessa Veterans Affairs Clinic to the Wilson and Young Medal of Honor VA Clinic: The bill will now head to the president's desk for signature. "Alfred Wilson and Marvin Young have served our country with dignity and honor," Sen. Cruz said. "Their contributions to the Lone Star State and our nation ar  more

Sens. Cruz, Graham, Rep. Cheney Issue Statement on Trump Administration Decision to End Civil Nuclear Waiver for Iran
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following joint statement with Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina, member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyoming, member of the House Armed Services Committee, applauding the Trump administration for announcing the end of the Fordow civil nuclear waiver for Iran: "We applaud President Trump and Secretary of State Pompeo for today's news that the Trump administration will finally end the waiver for ci  more

Udall Joins Representative Escobar, Border State Residents in Calling on the Senate to Pass the Homeland Security Improvement Act
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 -- Sen. Tom Udall, D-New Mexico, issued the following news release: * * * - Delegation of border community residents, including advocates from New Mexico, traveled to Washington, D.C. to call for Senate action on Udall-sponsored bill * * * Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (D-Texas) and border state residents for a press event to call on the Senate to pass Udall's Homeland Security Improvement Act. The corresponding House b  more