Thursday - March 28, 2024
U.S. Congressional Tipoffs Involving Texas Newsletter for Sunday March 22, 2020 ( 83 items )  

8 Trump Nominees, Including Amtrak Board Director, Received by Senate
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- The U.S. Senate received the nominations of eight individuals for positions in the federal government on March 18: Rick A. Dearborn, of Oklahoma, to be a Director of the Amtrak Board of Directors for a term of five years. Michael P. O'Rielly, of New York, to be a Member of the Federal Communications Commission for a term of five years from July 1, 2019. Carlos Trujillo, of Florida, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for a term exp  more

Chairwoman Johnson Requests Extension of Public Comment Opportunities for Proposed 'Strengthening Transparency' Rule
DALLAS, Texas, March 21 -- Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, issued the following news release: Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler requesting he extend the public comment period, hold public hearings when it is safe to do so, and brief staff on the most recent version of the proposed Strengthening Transparency in Regulatory Science rule. Ch  more

Courageous, Painful Step to Protect Us: Rep. Doggett Statement on Austin COVID-19 Preventative Measures
WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, issued the following statement on March 13 regarding Austin Mayor Steve Adler announced the closing of Austin bars, restaurants, and limiting gatherings to 10 people as protective measures against the coronavirus: "Like the courageous decision to shutter SXSW, Mayor Adler is taking the necessary step to limit suffering and deaths. Communities across Texas, especially in our neighboring counties, should do the same. "With little national lead  more

GAO Issues Report on Sexual Harassment in STEM Research
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- The Government Accountability Office has issued a report on sexual harassment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics research. The report (GAO-20-187) is entitled "Sexual Harassment in STEM Research: Agencies Have Taken Actions, but Need Complaint Procedures, Overall Plans, and Better Collaboration". The report was sent to Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, chairwoman, and Rep. Frank Lucas, R-Oklahoma, ranking member of the House Science, Space and Technol  more

In Wake of Coronavirus, Sens. Rosen, Cortez Masto, Colleagues Urge Trump Administration to Reverse Lawsuit Against the ACA
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nevada, issued the following news release: U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) joined Senate colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump urging him to reverse his policy of refusing to defend the constitutionality of the ACA in the Texas vs. United States lawsuit, and cease all other attempts to undermine our nation's health care law. "As the COVID-19 pandemic grows more catastrophic by the day, we write to reques  more

McCaul to Chinese Ambassador: Expelling US Journalists Shows Regime's Insecurity
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following news release: Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX), Lead Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, sent a letter to the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China, Cui Tiankai, denouncing China's plans to expel American journalists from the country. In the letter, he wrote: "Your ill-advised and dangerous actions demonstrate a significant lack of  more

Rep. Allred Votes for Bipartisan Bill to Bring Relief to Workers and Communities in Response to Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Colin Allred, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32) voted for the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, a bipartisan relief package for workers and communities. "Our country is at its best when we work together through times of crisis, and today, Congress acted in a bipartisan way to combat the spread of coronavirus and bring real relief to our workers and communities," said Allred. "This bill secures free access to testing  more

Rep. Arrington Statement on Latest Coronavirus Guideline Updates
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Texas, issued the following statement in response to the updated coronavirus taskforce guidelines for stopping the spread of coronavirus: "First and foremost - I urge all Americans to heed the advice of the Administration and health officials at every level of government. To most effectively battle this virus, citizens in every age group must remain vigilant and practice the key prevention measures of social distancing and exceptional hygiene, esp  more

Rep. Brady Floor Remarks in Support of Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following floor remarks in support for the Families First Coronavirus Response Act: "President Trump's declaration of a national emergency is a call to action to protect Americans' health and well being and protect the economy. "This bill, thanks to the leadership of Secretary Mnuchin and Leader McCarthy, meets many of those goals. "The President had succeeded in work  more

Rep. Brady Supports President's Decision to Give Taxpayers the Option to Extend Tax Filings to July 15
WOODLANDS, Texas, March 21 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin announced President Trump's decision to move the deadline for tax filing to July 15: "I applaud the President and Secretary Mnuchin for extending further relief to families and businesses. This is smart and measured leadership in the face of the novel coronavirus. "While I still encourage taxpayers who e  more

Rep. Brady Urges FRA to Extend Public Comment Period on High Speed Rail
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Kevin P. Brady, R-Texas, issued the following statement after sending a letter to the Federal Railroad Administration in response to their decision to cancel a public hearing in Navasota, Texas due to coronavirus: "I appreciate the FRA's commitment to abiding by CDC guidelines, and our first priority should always be the health and safety of the public. However, replacing in-person public hearings with virtual meetings while our communities continue to respond to   more

Rep. Brady, House Republicans Praise Bicameral Partnership in Making Third COVID-19 Aid Package
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following joint statement with House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-California, and six House Committees Republican leaders - -- Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-North Carolina, ranking Republican member of the House Education and Labor Committee, Rep. Greg Walden, R-Oregon, ranking Republican member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, rankin  more

Rep. Brady: Calling All Texas Manufacturers
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, issued the following news release: In a time of public crisis, it falls on all of us to do our part to support the nation. Right now, President Trump is calling on all manufacturers across the nation to help produce critical equipment to combat the Coronavirus. Yesterday, the President invoked the Defense Production Act of 1950, which gives him the authority to incentivize companies to make products deemed necessary to combat nationwide threa  more

Rep. Brady: CDC Grants $35.2 Million Towards Texas Coronavirus Response
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Kevin P. Brady, R-Texas, issued the following statement after the Center for Disease Control awarded $35.2 million to Texas to support the coronavirus response: "This new grant from the CDC will help Texas state and local health entities contain and mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus. Only by working together can we flatten the curve and stop the spread of this virus, and I thank President Trump and the Administration for their commitment to helping our state p  more

Rep. Brady: New Community-Based Testing Site to Open in Houston
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Kevin P. Brady, R-Texas, issued the following statement after the Health and Human Services Department announced that a community-based testing site will open in Houston: "This new community-based testing site in Houston will drastically increase the number of Texans who can get tested. The best part is, this facility will be run by our local Texas authorities and health officials who know what's best for our community needs. "Thanks to rapid response from Presiden  more

Rep. Brady: Phase II Coronavirus Package on Way to President's Desk
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement after the Senate passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act: "I am pleased the Senate approved the Families First Coronavirus Response Act with no additions. "This recognizes that changes made in the House bill by GOP members on behalf of America's small businesses allows the Treasury and Labor secretaries to successfully address the valid   more

Rep. Brady: Phase III - Strong Economic Action to Stave COVID-19
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, issued the following news release: The federal government has acted swiftly to help Americans impacted by the coronavirus. The first package, which has been signed into law, contained $8.3 billion to increase the availability of tests, support public and private efforts toward developing a vaccine, and assistance for small businesses. The second package, passed in the House and now being considered in the Senate, ensured free testing, emergency  more

Rep. Burgess on Your World With Neil Cavuto: Congress Needs to Send the Right Message to the Country
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health appeared on Fox News to assert that members of Congress, if healthy, should be ready to take action on combating this Coronavirus next week in Washington. Even though Congress is not exempt from the risk of this international pandemic, House leadersh  more

Rep. Burgess Urges Public to Help Out by Donating Blood
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health led by example by donating blood yesterday evening at Carter Blood Care. "Our nation is facing a blood supply shortage," Burgess said. "It is important that we step up and donate because there are many individuals in our communities who rely on lifesaving blood donations." "The U.S. Surg  more

Rep. Burgess: America Saw a Healing Voice of Reason From Our President
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health released the following statement after President Trump declared a National Emergency and the House passed H.R. 6201: The Families First Coronavirus Response Act. "In front of the nation in the White House Rose Garden, the President took action by de  more

Rep. Carter Supports Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. John Carter, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Representative John Carter (TX-31) voted in favor of the amended Families First Coronavirus Response Act, bipartisan legislation to help Americans navigate the impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic. This legislation is a culmination of bipartisan negotiations to ensure that the federal government continues to respond responsibly to COVID-19 and prioritizes funding for the most vulnerable populations. "My only p  more

Rep. Crenshaw, Bipartisan Lawmakers Call on DOI to Cut Gulf Oil and Gas Royalties
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), joined by a bipartisan group of 13 lawmakers, called on the Department of the Interior (DOI) to cut royalties on offshore oil and gas. In a letter to Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, the lawmakers pressed DOI to temporarily reduce or eliminate royalties for leases in the Gulf of Mexico. "We do not believe the American energy sector needs a bailout from Congress. However,   more

Rep. Crenshaw: Members of Houston's Congressional Delegation Issue Bipartisan Joint Statement on Coronavirus
HOUSTON, Texas, March 20 -- Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, issued the following statement: Bipartisan members of the Houston Congressional delegation released the following statement on COVID-19. Joining the statement were Representatives Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Pete Olson (TX-22), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Al Green (TX-09), Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18). "The spread of COVID-19 represents a serious and unprecedented threat to the health and safety of  more

Rep. Cuellar on House Passage of GI Bill Flexibility for Student Veterans
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following statement: Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) issues the following statement on the passage of the GI Bill Flexibility for Student Veterans, S. 3503. Due to schools temporarily closing or transitioning to online classes, this legislation helps student veterans by giving the VA authority to continue paying GI Bill payments and monthly housing allowances at existing rates. "Today, partisanship was put aside, and the House c  more

Rep. Cuellar Works to Help Constituents Stranded Overseas
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Henry Cuellar is working to help constituents stranded overseas travel back to the United States. Many countries have closed their borders to slow the Coronavirus, leaving many American tourists stuck abroad. "I am actively working on solutions for my constituents stranded in different countries around the world," said Congressman Cuellar. "The Coronavirus pandemic brings a number of challenges   more

Rep. Doggett: Testing for All Texans to Protect Texas--Members Urge Abbott to Implement Free Testing and Enable More Texans to Get Insured
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, issued the following news release: As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across Texas, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, led a group of Texas Democrats in urging Governor Abbott to tap into the federal funds that were made available for Texas in the Families First Coronavirus Response legislation and enable implementation of COVID-19 testing for all Texans, regardless of their insurance status. With ap  more

Rep. Escobar Announces Office Changes to Mitigate COVID-19 Spread
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) announced changes to operations in her Washington, D.C. and El Paso offices that reflect the current public health recommendations. "As a member of Congress, the health and safety of Americans is my top priority. In that spirit, my office will implement new measures to assist in preventing the spread of coronavirus," said Congresswoman Escobar. "An ounce of preventi  more

Rep. Escobar Votes for the Bipartisan Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) voted for H.R. 6201, the bipartisan Families First Coronavirus Response Act, a critical legislation to support El Paso families facing the COVID-19 public health threat. "As El Pasoans learn about the first presumptive positive case of coronavirus, I'm putting families first by supporting critical legislation that appropriates funds to ensure free coronavirus testin  more

Rep. Fletcher Statement on Emergency Designation for Small Business Disaster Loans From U.S. Small Business Administration
HOUSTON, Texas, March 21 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following statement: Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) issued the following statement after the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) included the state of Texas in its Economic Injury Disaster Declaration, which grants access to its Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program that provides long-term, low-interest loans to small businesses: "Small businesses are vital drivers of our economy. "That is why, earlier th  more

Rep. Fletcher: Members of Houston's Congressional Delegation Issue Bipartisan Joint Statement on COVID-19
HOUSTON, Texas, March 20 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following statement: Bipartisan members of the Houston Congressional delegation released the following statement on COVID-19. Joining the statement were Representatives Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Pete Olson (TX-22), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Al Green (TX-09), Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18). "The spread of COVID-19 represents a serious and unprecedented threat to the health and safety   more

Rep. Foxx, House Republicans Statement on Senate Coronavirus Response Package
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-North Carolina, ranking Republican member of the House Education and Labor Committee, issued the following joint statement with House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-California, and six House Committees Republican leaders - Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Greg Walden, R-Oregon, ranking Republican member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, ranking member of th  more

Rep. Gohmert on Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Louie Gohmert, R-Texas, issued the following statement on his vote against the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201): "In the wee hours of Saturday morning the U.S. House of Representatives voted on a bill to address economic issues that the Coronavirus may cause. There is so much we do not know about what this pandemic will do, but I am extremely grateful to our President for his unwavering, steadfast efforts to tackle this pandemic head on. There was  more

Rep. Gohmert on Request to Read Revisions in Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Louie Gohmert, R-Texas, issued the following statement regarding his request to read the revisions in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act: "Last night some of the elected members of Congress heard that substantial changes were being made to H.R. 6201, the "Families First Coronavirus Response Act" that the House passed in the wee hours Saturday morning without being afforded the luxury of time to read the final bill before we voted. I read the 9pm version but  more

Rep. Gonzalez Calls on Secretary of Education to Protect Students From Financial Impact of Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) along with 71 other House Members sent a bipartisan letter to Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos requesting the cost of protective measures for COVID-19 do not fall on students. Many students have taken out student loans and incurred debt to pay for their educational expenses. The Members asked for the U.S. Department of Education to work with higher education instit  more

Rep. Gonzalez Presses Speaker Pelosi to Create Remote Voting System
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 19: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) wrote to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi asking her to establish a remote voting system in the U.S. House of Representatives. Several Members of Congress have tested positive for COVID-19 and others have chosen to self-quarantine out of an abundance of caution including Congressman Gonzalez. "Our ability to debate and pass critical legislation in a time of cris  more

Rep. Gonzalez Statement on Closing the Southern Border to Non-Essential Travel
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following statement regarding the Trump administration's decision to close the U.S.-Mexico border to non-essential travel: "The U.S. and Mexican governments have deemed non-essential travel to and from Mexico necessary to protect the health and safety of the American and Mexican people. Commerce and essential travel will be allowed. "Mexico is an invaluable trade partner and friend, and I look forward to the day we can lift the  more

Rep. Gonzalez Statement on Passage of Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following statement on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201): "This legislation bolsters the government's response to the coronavirus outbreak and addresses the severe impacts of the coronavirus on Americans' personal safety and financial security. "Emergency paid family leave, free testing and treatment, and strong unemployment benefits should be a standard not an exception in times of crisis." "We cannot aff  more

Rep. Gonzalez to Voluntarily Self-Quarantine
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following statement that he will self-quarantine following close contact with a House colleague who announced Wednesday they tested positive for coronavirus: "Last week, I was in close contact with a colleague who on Wednesday evening tested positive for COVID-19. I have decided to voluntarily self-quarantine until Wednesday, March 25, 2020. I remain asymptomatic and in good health. I have alerted House leadership and am awaiti  more

Rep. Gonzalez Urges President Trump and House and Senate Leadership to Take Immediate Action in Coronavirus Pandemic
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) wrote to President Donald J. Trump, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to implore them to take all necessary and appropriate actions to support students, small businesses, seniors, state and local governments, the uninsured, and ensure an accurate decennial Censu  more

Rep. Gonzalez: South Texas Congressmen Urge Texas Gov. Abbott to Make More Test Kits and Drive-Thru Testing Available in South Texas
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), Filemon Vela (TX-34), Henry Cuellar (TX-28) and Michael Cloud (TX-27) sent a bipartisan letter urging Texas Governor Greg Abbott to make more COVID-19 diagnostic testing available in South Texas hospitals and medical centers, and erect drive-thru testing sites for South Texas communities. "What we are asking is simple," said Congressman Vicente Gonzalez. "Make test   more

Rep. Granger on Coronavirus Relief Package
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, issued the following statement on the House passing of the second coronavirus relief bill (H.R. 6201): Top Appropriations Committee Republican Kay Granger (R-TX) released the following statement following the House of Representatives passing H.R. 6201, the second coronavirus relief bill. "The American people expect and deserve a comprehensive, coordinated response to the coronavirus. Following President Trump's decisive actions today to declar  more

Rep. Granger: An Update on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, issued the following e-newsletter: The spread of the coronavirus is an extremely serious situation. I want to update you on what is being done to protect Americans from this virus. I have had numerous briefings and talked with many experts and want you to know the Trump Administration is taking the right steps to protect you and your family's health and to stabilize the economy during this extraordinary crisis. President Trump is taking unprec  more

Rep. Granger: Ending Poverty is Possible in Texas 12
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, issued the following e-newsletter: This Wednesday, March 17, marked 110 years of Catholic Charities Fort Worth's service to our community. As an over-100 year old organization, Catholic Charities Fort Worth has helped North Texans in times of natural disasters, economic hardship, and now disease. In Fort Worth, 18% of people live in poverty and one in four children lack consistent access to good, healthy food. Catholic Charities Fort Worth is   more

Rep. Green Applauds Senate Passage of Coronavirus Relief Measure
HOUSTON, Texas, March 19 -- Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Al Green released the following statement regarding the Senate's passage of the second coronavirus relief package: After a 90-8 Senate vote, Congressman Al Green announced, "I am pleased to learn of the Senate's vote to provide relief funding for the American public in the wake of the coronavirus crisis. Originally drafted and passed in the House of Representatives, the Families First Coronavirus  more

Rep. Green Teamed Up With Mayor Turner at Press Conference Regarding Opening of First City-County Drive Thru COVID-19 Testing Site
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, issued the following news release: On Friday, March 20, 2020, Congressman Al Green released the following statement regarding the opening of the testing site at Butler Stadium: "I thank Mayor Turner for having me team up with him and for opening this facility at Butler Stadium, in the Ninth Congressional District. This testing facility will increase our ability to identify COVID-19 cases in the Greater Houston area and protect our first responder  more

Rep. Green's Congressional Staff Teleworking Until Further Notice to Implement Social Distancing
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, issued the following statement on update regarding coronavirus: "Effective immediately, our congressional offices located in Houston and Missouri City, Texas, as well as Washington, D.C., will practice social distancing by teleworking as a result of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). As we continue to spread facts NOT fear, we must work to ensure the health and safety of both our constituents and our staff during this tumultuous time. We urg  more

Rep. Johnson Announces Small Business Disaster Loan Program for Texas
DALLAS, Texas, March 21 -- Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Johnson announced that the Small Business Administration (SBA) has included Texas in its Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL), which will provide long-term, low-interest loans to qualifying businesses across the state. "Immediate financial support to small businesses who employ people in our community is critical to the financial health and recovery of our city, state and na  more

Rep. Johnson's Statement on 2020 Tax Filing Season Update
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, issued the following statement: Congresswoman Johnson released the following statement after the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service announced that Americans owing up to $1 million in federal income tax and businesses owing up to $10 million in federal income tax would have an additional 90 days (until July 15, 2020) to make their tax payments without penalty or interest: "As Americans face uncertainty a  more

Rep. McCaul Statement on Latest Attack on American Press in China
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement after China announced plans to kick U.S. journalists out of the country: "As the Chinese Communist Party continues to deflect its culpability for the spread of coronavirus, this action is the most serious blow yet to press freedom in China. "It's clear the CCP's biggest fear is accountability and this will only embolden our journalists to conti  more

Rep. McCaul Votes to Support American Families and Workers Impacted by Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Michael T. McCaul, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), voted in favor of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to provide immediate assistance in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including free testing for all Americans. "Members in our community have felt ripple effects as the coronavirus continues to spread throughout the U.S. and across the state of Texas. "Thousands of Texans are feeling the financial burden   more

Rep. Olson Joins Houston Colleagues to Issue Bipartisan Joint Statement on Coronavirus
HOUSTON, Texas, March 20 -- Rep. Pete Olson, R-Texas, issued the following statement: Congressman Pete Olson (TX-22) joined a bipartisan group of members of the Houston Congressional Delegation led by Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) to release the following statement on COVID-19: "The spread of COVID-19 represents a serious and unprecedented threat to the health and safety of our communities. As members of the Houston Congressional Delegation, we are committed to working together for our region an  more

Rep. Roy on Coronavirus Bill
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, issued the following news release: I voted against Nancy Pelosi's Coronavirus bill. I could not support the bill for several reasons. First, the legislative process is corrupted. As of 9:51 pm, I was communicating with a group of U.S. Congressmen -- none of whom knew which version of the legislation to review -- while the Chamber of Commerce issued statements of support. As often happens, K Street had the draft before most members of Congress.   more

Rep. Taylor Requests Standardized Testing Waiver From Department of Education
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Van Taylor, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Van Taylor (TX-03) sent a letter to the United States Department of Education regarding standardized testing amidst uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Addressed to United States Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, the letter urges the Department of Education to grant a waiver to the State of Texas on certain federal requirements for states, including the requirement to administer stand  more

Rep. Taylor Supports Second Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Van Taylor, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Early this morning, United States Congressman Van Taylor (TX-03) voted in favor of legislation to provide additional emergency funding to combat coronavirus. After President Donal Trump declared a National Emergency yesterday, lawmakers brought H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, to the House Floor for consideration. H.R. 6201 provides additional authorities and resources for the U.S. respo  more

Rep. Thornberry's Statement on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, issued the following statement on guidance regarding the coronavirus outbreak: It is fair to say the United States, like much of the world, is playing catch-up on the new coronavirus, COVID-19. Several important steps, however, have now been taken: * Last week, Congress and the President approved $7.8 billion to speed up delivery of testing kits and increase telemedicine opportunities for Americans affected by this virus. * Earlier today,   more

Rep. Thornberry's Statement on the Second Coronavirus Relief Package
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, issued the following statement after President Trump signed into law the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201): "I appreciate the President acting quickly to sign this bill into law.It will help workers and businesses, as well as remove financial obstacles to testing.It is also important to see that children and other vulnerable populations are able to get meals." This legislation: * Includes requirements and resources to sma  more

Rep. Vela Demands End to Remain in Mexico Policy During COVID-19 Global Pandemic
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Trump is discriminating against migrants and asylum seekers at our border at the worst time- during a global pandemic. Trump has forced 3,000 vulnerable women, children and families into horrible, unsanitary conditions, which only heighten the risk of the spread of COVID-19. Now is the time to eliminate MPP. An orderly process that protects the constitutional rights of migrants and asylum seekers and prote  more

Rep. Vela Urges Governor Abbott to Permanently Expand Medicaid
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Filemon Vela (D-TX) called on Governor Greg Abbott to expand Medicaid eligibility to all uninsured individuals in Texas. By expanding access to Medicaid and providing billions in federally-available funds to Texas hospitals, millions of uninsured Texans would be able to access vital health care services, which would help protect against the further spread ofCOVID-19. "Governor Abbott must adopt   more

Rep. Walden, House Republicans Praise Bicameral Partnership in Making Third COVID-19 Aid Package
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Greg Walden, R-Oregon, ranking Republican member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following joint statement with House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-California, and six House Committees Republican leaders - Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-North Carolina, ranking member of the House Education and Labor Committee, Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, ranking member of the House App  more

Rep. Weber Issues Statement on Galveston County Coronavirus Case
WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Randy Weber, R-Texas, issued the following statement: Like most Americans, my family and I have been closely monitoring the news and developments pertaining to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. And, just like you, we are interested in knowing how best to deal with this unfamiliar situation while keeping our friends, family and neighbors safe. Yesterday, it hit closer to home. Galveston County officials reported the first confirmed case of COVID-19 involving a 1  more

Rep. Wright Votes Yes on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Ron Wright, R-Texas, issued the following statement: Last week, Congressman Ron Wright (TX-06) voted YES on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201). "Last week I voted YES on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201). As COVID-19, commonly known as coronavirus, continues to sweep through our nation, my main priority is to ensure that the people of the 6th District have the resources they need to keep their families safe. Although this  more

Reps. DeFazio, Doggett to Corporations: Put Workers First in Economic Recovery
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, issued the following news release: As the COVID-19 pandemic has led to massive layoffs and economic hardship across the United States, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, and U.S. Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, led 100 of their colleagues in urging that any economic relief package for industries affected by the pandemic put  more

Reps. Veasey, Perlmutter Call on FDA to Repurpose Existing Drugs to Help Combat Coronavirus Pandemic
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, issued the following news release: In the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic, Congressmen Marc Veasey (TX-33) and Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) wrote a letter urging the Food and Drug Administration to ensure availability of existing drugs that have shown promise to combat the spread of the Coronavirus. Specifically, the letter requests information regarding the obstacles to procurement for chloroquine phosphate and hydroxychloroquine--compounds that are  more

Sen. Bennet, Senate Democrats Condemn Trump Administration on Approval of Texas Medicaid Waiver
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Sen. Michael F. Bennet, D-Colorado, issued the following news release: Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined 31 of his Senate colleagues in condemning the Trump Administration's decision to approve a Medicaid waiver request submitted by Texas that allows the state to receive federal funding while excluding providers like Planned Parenthood from their family planning program. In a letter addressed to Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema  more

Sen. Cornyn Moves to Protect Vets' GI Bill Benefits Despite Coronavirus School Closures
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after co-sponsoring the Emergency GI Fix for Coronavirus School Closures Act, a bill to allow veterans to continue utilizing GI benefits despite many courses moving online to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Under current law, qualifying veterans receive GI Bill benefits to cover housing and/or living expenses when they attend a physical un  more

Sen. Cornyn: What the Families First Coronavirus Response Act Means for Texas
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: The Senate will soon vote on the Families Fist Coronavirus Response Act to help Americans deal with the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak. Sen. Cornyn spoke about his support for the bill on the Senate floor earlier today, and below is a summary of its positive impact on Texas. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act: * Ensures no Texan will have to pay for COVID-19 testing by providing $1 billion to pay   more

Sen. Cruz Applauds Release of Amer Fakhoury
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement after the release of Amer Fakhoury, a U.S. citizen held hostage in Lebanon. This comes after Sens. Cruz and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) introduced legislation in February that would impose sanctions against Lebanese officials who are involved in the unlawful detainment, arrest or abuse of any American in Leb  more

Sen. Cruz Introduces Legislation to Increase Healthcare Capacity & Access, Speed Up FDA Approval for Certain Vaccines & Cures
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: As the spread of coronavirus continues to affect more communities across the country, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced legislation focused on increasing access to healthcare and expediting the approval for vaccines and treatments already approved in other countries. To increase healthcare capacity and access, Sen. Cruz introduced the Creating Capacity for Communities in Need Act with Sens. John Cornyn (R-  more

Sen. Cruz on COVID-19: 'As A Country, We've Endured Enormous Challenges, We Will Overcome This One As Well'
HOUSTON, Texas, March 16 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: After calling on federal officials to take four immediate steps to detect, treat, and prevent the spread of COVID-19 on Friday, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), who is in self-quarantine out of an abundance of caution, called into ABC News Live with Diane Macedo. On Saturday, Sen. Cruz spoke with WFAA Dallas' Jason Whitely, KXAS Dallas' Katy Blakey, and KTRK Houston's Tom Abrahams. When asked about his health a  more

Sen. Cruz Submits Op-Ed on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following op-ed on coronavirus, which was provided to the Houston Chronicle: In his new op-ed in the Houston Chronicle, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) offers an inside-look into his 10-day self-quarantine, the steps he took out of an abundance of caution to protect the health and welfare of his family, constituents, staff, and colleagues in Congress, and his efforts to coordinate a national response to COVID-19 from home. In the op-ed, h  more

Sen. Cruz to HHS: 'Time Is of the Essence' to Ensure Hospitals, Health Care Facilities Have Ventilators Critical to Treating COVID-19
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) sent a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar urging him to immediately use the powers delegated to him by President Trump to order the production and distribution of ventilators, which are critical to treating individuals infected by COVID-19. As Sen. Cruz wrote: "On Wednesday, March 18, 2020, President Trump signed an executive order invoking the Defense Pro  more

Sen. Cruz Votes in Favor of Second Coronavirus Relief Package
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following statement after voting in favor of the second coronavirus relief proposal: "There is a vital role for the federal government to act in times of emergency and crisis. This is one of those times. While this bill is not perfect, it will provide much-needed relief for the men and women in Texas who right now are hurting as a result of this outbreak, including waivers to allow schools to continue serving meals during temporary clos  more

Sen. Cruz: #TexansHelpingTexans: Texas Communities Working Together to Combat Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: As coronavirus continues to spread across the United States and throughout Texas, Texans from all walks of life are working together to meet the needs of their neighbors, friends, and communities. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) highlighted Texas' communities and businesses working together in response to the coronavirus pandemic. "As our state and our nation face unprecedented challenges with many unknowns, I'm gr  more

Sen. Cruz: Coronavirus - Resources & Updates
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: COVID-19 is a new disease that causes respiratory illness in people and can spread from person to person. This virus was first identified in Wuhan, China. COVID-19 RESOURCES The threat of the COVID-19 is real and immediate. For the most up to date information and resources on the coronavirus, visit the following: * Center for Disease Control and Prevention * Texas Department of State Health Services * Texas  more

Sen. Cruz: Without Panic, Hysteria, or Partisan Games, We Can Curb This Outbreak and Stop It in Its Tracks
HOUSTON, Texas, March 18 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following statement on the completion of his voluntary self-quarantine: "Today marks 14 days since my interaction with a second individual who subsequently tested positive for COVID-19, and the end of my extended self-quarantine. I still have no symptoms and feel healthy. From the time the COVID-19 outbreak was first reported, and during my self-quarantine, I've been actively working with the administration, my colleagues, state and  more

Sen. Feinstein: GAO Report Finds Rise in FOIA Backlog, Continued Delays in Compliance
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-California, issued the following news release on March 16: Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) joined Representative Carolyn B. Maloney (D-N.Y.) and Senators Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Chuck E. Grassley (R-Iowa) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) to release the findings of a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report entitled "Freedom of Information Act: Federal Agencies' Recent Implementation Efforts." The lawmakers requested that GAO conduct a comprehen  more

Sen. Grassley: Bipartisan, Bicameral Group Releases GAO Report Finding Increases in FOIA Backlogs, Continued Delays in Agency Compliance
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, issued the following news release: Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), House Oversight and Reform Committee Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-N.Y.), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), and Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas), released the findings of a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report titled "Freedom of Inf  more

Sen. Harris, Senate Democrats Condemn Trump Administration on Approval of Texas Medicaid Waiver
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Sen. Kamala D. Harris, D-California, issued the following news release on March 19: U.S. Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-CA) on Wednesday joined Senators Ron Wyden, (D-OR) and Patty Murray, (D-WA), and 30 of their Senate colleagues in condemning the Trump administration's decision to approve a Medicaid waiver request submitted by Texas that allows the state to receive federal funding while excluding providers like Planned Parenthood from their family planning program. In a  more

Senate Democrats Condemn Trump Administration on Approval of Texas Medicaid Waiver That Limits Women's Choice of Health Care Provider
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Oregon, ranking Democratic member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following news: Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee Ranking Member Patty Murray, D-Wash., led 30 of their Senate colleagues in condemning the Trump administration's decision to approve a Medicaid waiver request submitted by Texas that allows the state to receive federal funding while excl  more

Sens. Cortez Masto, Rosen Call on Administration to Reverse Limits on Choice of Doctor for Medicaid Beneficiaries
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nevada, issued the following news release: U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) joined 30 of their Senate colleagues, led by Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.), in condemning the Trump administration's decision to approve a Medicaid waiver request submitted by Texas that allows the state to receive federal funding while excluding providers like Planned Parenthood from their family planni  more

To Combat Coronavirus, Cornyn, Cruz Urge FEMA, SBA to Coordinate With State, Local Officials
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Following President Trump's national emergency declaration, U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) sent him a letter urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to work closely with State of Texas emergency management officials and the Small Business Administration (SBA) to increase awareness of the many financial tools available to assist Texans experiencing the economic impact of the   more

To Combat Coronavirus, Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Urge FEMA, SBA to Coordinate With State, Local Officials
WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Following President Trump's national emergency declaration, U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) sent him a letter urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to work closely with State of Texas emergency management officials and the Small Business Administration (SBA) to increase awareness of the many financial tools available to assist Texans experiencing the economic impact of the   more

Ways and Means Leaders Urge Social Security Administration to Safeguard Health and Minimize Disruptions Amid Coronavirus Crisis
WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following news release: * * * - Social Security has never missed a payment. We want to ensure Americans can continue to count on timely benefits. * * * House Ways and Means Committee Republican Leader Kevin Brady (R-TX) and Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA), along with Social Security Subcommittee Republican Leader Tom Reed (R-NY) and Chairman John B. Larson (D-CT),  more