Thursday - March 28, 2024
U.S. Congressional Tipoffs Involving Texas Newsletter for Sunday March 29, 2020 ( 86 items )  

* FROM THE CAPITOL HILL - House Science Chairwoman Johnson Issues Statement on Unproven Claims of Chemicals That Prevent, Treat COVID-19
DALLAS, Texas, March 26 -- Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, issued the following statement: Earlier this week, inaccurate rumors began to spread about chloroquine and other chemicals' supposed ability to protect against and treat COVID-19. Following the spread of those claims, reports emerged of individuals in multiple countries ingesting chemicals to prevent contracting the virus. On Monday, one American was reported dead and h  more

5 Trump Nominees, Including Army Under Secretary, Confirmed by Senate
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- The U.S. Senate confirmed the nominations of four individuals for positions in the federal government on March 23: James E. McPherson, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary of the Army. Mindy Brashears, of Texas, to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Food Safety. Katherine Andrea Lemos, of California, to be a Member of the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board for a term of five years. Katherine Andrea Lemos, of California, to be Chairperson of the Chemical S  more

Chairwoman Johnson, Ranking Member Lucas Request GAO Evaluation of DOE's Management Waste Cleanup Technology Development
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- 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) and Ranking Member Frank Lucas (R-OK) sent a letter to Government Accountability Office (GAO) Comptroller Gene Dodaro requesting an evaluation of the Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Environmental Management (EM) science and technology (S&T) development priorities that would aid in efficiently  more

Conaway Salutes Farmers, Ranchers, Rural America on National Agriculture Day
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. K. Michael Conaway, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Agriculture Committee, issued the following statement in commemoration of National Agriculture Day: "Our country is blessed with the safest, most abundant, and most affordable food and fiber supply in the world. "The COVID-19 pandemic has made us question what life would be like if we could not buy what we need to feed and care for our families. The good news is that our nation's farmers and ranche  more

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Statement on Third Coronavirus Response Bill and Its Impact on Latino and Immigrant Communities
WASHINGTON, March 27 -- Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chairman Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, issued the following statement on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act also known as the CARES Act, which marks the third coronavirus response bill passed by the Senate: "Several days ago, Senate Republicans tried to force through a bill that prioritized corporations over America's workers. Thanks to the efforts of our Democratic leadership, the bill passed by the Senate last night includes   more

Congressman Taylor Introduces Resolution Calling for Use of Defense Production Act for COVID-19 Response
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Van Taylor, R-Texas, issued the following news release: United States Congressman Van Taylor (R-TX-03) joined Congressman Andy Levin (D-MI-09) to introduce a bipartisan resolution urging the President to utilize the Defense Production Act to respond to COVID-19 and meet the critical supply needs of our nation's healthcare system. Congressman Taylor said, "This is an unprecedented moment for our nation - a threat unlike any we have experienced in our lifetimes. In o  more

GAO Issues Report on Defense Nuclear Enterprise
WASHINGTON, March 27 -- The Government Accountability Office has issued a report on the defense nuclear enterprise. The report (GAO-20-296) is entitled "Systems Face Sustainment Challenges, and Actions Are Needed to Effectively Monitor Efforts to Improve the Enterprise". The report was sent to Sen. James M. Inhofe, R-Oklahoma, chairman, Sen. Jack Reed, D-Rhode Island, ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Sen. Richard C. Shelby, R-Alabama, chairman, Sen. Richard J. Durbin, D-Il  more

GAO Issues Report on Freedom of Information Act
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- The Government Accountability Office has issued a report on the Freedom of Information Act. The report (GAO-20-406R) is entitled "Federal Agencies' Recent Implementation Efforts". The report was sent to Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-California, ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, Sen. Patrick J. Leahy, D-Vermont, Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman, and Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, ranking member of   more

McCaul Calls for Continued Diplomatic Engagement Amid Oil Price War
WASHINGTON, March 27 -- 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 of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, sent a letter to Keith Krach, the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment urging the State Department to continue diplomatic engagement to help stem the economic impacts of the oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Rus  more

On 10th Anniversary of ACA, Rep. Mucarsel-Powell Calls on Trump to Drop Lawsuit to Repeal Health Care Legislation
MIAMI, Florida, March 24 -- Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, D-Florida, issued the following news release: On the 10th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (FL-26) and other members of Congress sent a letter to President Donald Trump asking him to drop the Texas v. US health care lawsuit in light of the COVID-19 crisis. "At a time when healthcare coverage is more important than ever, the Trump administration continues to recklessly support the dismantling  more

Rep. Allred Releases Small Business Resource Guide for North Texas Businesses Impacted by COVID-19
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Colin Allred, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32) released a small business resource guide to help small businesses throughout the 32nd District as the North Texas region fights the spread of COVID-19. "Small businesses and their workers help power our economy and connect our communities -- and now they need our help," said Allred. "The necessary Stay Home, Stay Safe measures are taking its toll on our small businesses and m  more

Rep. Allred Urges Swift Action From FEMA on Personal Protection Equipment and Testing
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Colin Allred, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32) led a bipartisan effort with 19 of his House colleagues to urge the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide assistance and expertise to address challenges on the frontlines of the outbreak. "We must marshal all the federal resources we can to combat and contain the spread of this virus," said Allred. "FEMA has the expertise and resources that can help our local  more

Rep. Arrington Seeks Constituent Feedback on COVID-19 Relief
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Texas, issued the following news release: What: Rep. Arrington is seeking solutions and suggestions that West Texans think would provide relief for their family, business, or community by clicking here (https://bit.ly/3biEAXZ). Rep. Arrington is also encouraging constituents to submit any issues they are having with government agencies as a result of the Coronavirus so that my office may work to resolve it. Why: In our response to this novel viru  more

Rep. Babin Responds to Senate Democrat Obstruction
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Brian Babin, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) issued the following statement as Senate Democrats continue to obstruct the passing of the Phase III Coronavirus (COVID-19) relief package currently in the U.S. Senate. "We are living in an unprecedented time as COVID-19 continues to cripple our nation," said Babin. "Americans are suffering and need Congress to do its job and pass the relief package currently in the Senate  more

Rep. Blunt Rochester Marks 10th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, Calls on Trump Administration to End ACA Lawsuit
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Delaware, issued the following news release: On the 10th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) called on the Trump Administration to end its Texas v. U.S. lawsuit, which would strike down the entirety of the ACA as well as pre-existing condition protections for 130 million Americans, including 160,000 Delawareans, amid the coronavirus pandemic. "Protecting and building upon the legacy of the Affo  more

Rep. Brady Calls for Fast House Action on Phase III Package
WOODLANDS, Texas, March 27 -- Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement after the Senate passed the phase three coronavirus relief package: "Now that Senate has passed the CARES Act, the House must follow suit to take decisive action to protect our workers, families, and small businesses who will suffer the worst from inaction. "This bill helps workers keep their jobs, helps local businesses ride out this storm,   more

Rep. Chu Urges Trump to Drop Lawsuit on 10th Anniversary of ACA
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Judy Chu, D-California, issued the following statement: On this day in 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law by President Barack Obama. Since going into effect, the ACA has saved 20 million Americans from having to go without health insurance. In California, 3,999,239 Californians gained insurance thanks to the ACA, a reduction of 61% of the uninsured population. But all of this success is threatened by the lawsuit Texas v. U.S., which is backed by  more

Rep. Cox on the 10th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, Calls on Trump Administration to End ACA Lawsuit
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. TJ Cox, D-California, issued the following news release on March 23: On the 10th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Rep. Cox called on the Trump Administration to end its Texas v. U.S. lawsuit, which would strike down the entirety of the ACA as well as pre-existing condition protections for 130 million Americans, including 6,093,000 Californians, amid the coronavirus pandemic. "As our nation faces this unprecedented pandemic, the effort to eliminate the   more

Rep. Cuellar Announces $406,775 for the City of Laredo Health Department
LAREDO, Texas, March 27 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $406,775 in federal funding to the City of Laredo Health Department, in efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 throughout the City of Laredo and Webb County. This funding, awarded from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and allocated through the Texas Department of State Health Services, will be used to conduct surveillance of health service  more

Rep. Cuellar Announces $72,034 for Atascosa Health Center's Efforts to Combat Coronavirus Pandemic
PLEASANTON, Texas, March 26 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $72,034 in federal funding for the Atascosa Health Center's efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic. This funding, awarded through the Department of Health and Human Services, will be used to meet evolving needs for Atascosa Health Center during the COVID-19 pandemic, including expanding testing, purchasing supplies and providing safety education. "Local  more

Rep. Cuellar Announces $92,827 for Gateway Community Health Center's Efforts to Combat Coronavirus Pandemic
LAREDO, Texas, March 25 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $92,827 in federal funding for the Gateway Community Health Center's efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic. This funding, awarded through the Department of Health and Human Services, will be used to meet evolving needs for Gateway Community Health Center during the COVID-19 pandemic, including expanding testing, purchasing supplies and providing safety educ  more

Rep. Cuellar Marks 10th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, Calls on Trump Administration to End Lawsuit
LAREDO, Texas, March 25 -- Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 23: On the 10th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Congressman Henry Cuellar called on the Trump Administration to end its Texas v. U.S. lawsuit, which would strike down the entirety of the ACA as well as pre-existing condition protections for 130 million Americans, including 4,794,000 Texans, amid the coronavirus pandemic. "For a decade, I have stood strong for the health and financia  more

Rep. Davids: On 10 Year Anniversary of Affordable Care Act, Davids Calls on Trump Administration to End ACA Lawsuit
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kansas, issued the following news release: * * * - Announces Support for Bill to Strengthen ACA Amid Coronavirus * * * On the 10th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Representative Sharice Davids called on the Trump Administration to end its Texas v. U.S. lawsuit, which would strike down the entirety of the ACA, as well as the protections for 1.2 million Kansans with pre-existing conditions, amid the coronavirus pandemic. "To effecti  more

Rep. Escobar: El Paso Leaders Joint Statement Urging Cooperation, Encouraging El Paso-Juarez Region to Prepare to Minimize Impact of Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, issued the following statement: Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Congressman Will Hurd (TX-23), Mayor Dee Margo, County Judge Ricardo A. Samaniego, and Borderplex Chief Executive Officer Jon Barela, released the following joint statement urging U.S. and Mexican authorities to cooperate to contain spread of coronavirus, and El Paso-Juarez region to make contingency plans to minimize impact: "Following the temporary restriction of no  more

Rep. Fletcher Fights for Constituents Stuck in Peru During COVID-19 Pandemic
WASHINGTON, March 27 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 26: Last night, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) wrote to Peruvian Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Hugo de Zela, on behalf of Houstonians who have been stuck abroad amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the spread of COVID-19, the country of Peru has closed its borders - leaving many United States citizens, including several of Congresswoman Fletcher's constituents, stuck in  more

Rep. Fletcher Leads Bipartisan Call for Congressional Leadership to Address Needs of People in Energy in Relief Legislation
HOUSTON, Texas, March 25 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) announced her bipartisan call to Congressional leadership to ensure additional relief legislation addresses the unique challenges facing the people who work in the energy industry. In a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, the members highlight the ch  more

Rep. Fletcher Leads Effort to Secure PPE for Houston-area Health Care Workers and First Responders
HOUSTON, Texas, March 25 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) led a bipartisan effort to ensure health care workers and first responders on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic can obtain the personal protective equipment (PPE) they need. Congresswoman Fletcher was joined by Representatives Pete Olson (TX-22), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), and Al Green (TX-09). In a letter to Congressional leadership, the members called for the   more

Rep. Fletcher Self-Quarantining
HOUSTON, Texas, March 27 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 26: Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) will self-quarantine until she receives COVID-19 test results. After experiencing flu-like symptoms, including a temperature above 101 degrees, Congresswoman Fletcher sought professional medical treatment out of an abundance of caution. At the determination of her physician, she was tested for COVID-19 today. She will continue to work from home until s  more

Rep. Fletcher Statement in Support of Harris County and City of Houston's 'Stay Home, Work Safe' Order
HOUSTON, Texas, March 25 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following statement: Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) issued the following statement after Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner issued a new order, "Stay Home, Work Safe," for residents to stay at home to fight the spread of COVID-19: "Public safety is the first responsibility of government. I support efforts to keep our residents safe through the "Stay Home, Work Safe" order announced thi  more

Rep. Garcia Issues Statement in Support of Harris County Stay at Home Order
HOUSTON, Texas, March 25 -- Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, issued the following statement in response to the Stay at Home Order issued by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner: "Thank you Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Mayor Sylvester Turner for taking bold action that will save lives. It will take a regional response with Galveston and Fort Bend counties to stop the further spread of this virus and support all of the workers on the front lines. I will continu  more

Rep. Garcia Leads Effort to Ensure Texas Workforce Commission Has Necessary Resources to Process Increased Number of Unemployment Insurance Applications
HOUSTON, Texas, March 27 -- Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), alongside Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) and Congressman Al Green (TX-09), led an effort calling on Governor Greg Abbott to ensure that the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is well equipped to quickly process and distribute unemployment insurance benefits to Texans that have been affected by this crisis and are in need of such financial assistance. "We all kno  more

Rep. Garcia Marks 10th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, Demands Trump Administration to End ACA Lawsuit
HOUSTON, Texas, March 24 -- Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 23: On the 10th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) joined Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and 125 of her House Democratic colleagues in a letter demanding for the Trump Administration to end its Texas v. U.S. lawsuit, which would strike down the entirety of the ACA as well as pre-existing condition protections for 130 million Americans, includin  more

Rep. Garcia Responds to Senate Leadership and the White House Reaching a Deal on the Senate Stimulus Package
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, issued the following statement in response to Senate leaders and the White House reaching a deal on the nearly $2 trillion Senate stimulus package: "The coronavirus pandemic is an unprecedented public health crisis that is affecting everyone around the world. Here at home, in Houston, and all across the country, hardworking families are losing their jobs or on the brink of doing so, small businesses are being forced to close, and major indust  more

Rep. Garcia's Provision to Help Minority-Owned Businesses Included in House Democrats' Coronavirus Stimulus Package
HOUSTON, Texas, March 24 -- Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) filed legislation that would provide minority-owned businesses $3 billion in grants through the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA). It was included as a provision in The Take Responsibility for Workers and Families Act, H.R. 6379, the coronavirus economic stimulus package unveilved earlier by Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. This provision would support the   more

Rep. Gonzalez and 14 Members Request House and Senate Leadership to Include Inclusive Language for COVID-19 Media Broadcasting
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and 14 House Members sent a letter to House and Senate leadership requesting the next COVID-19 response package include language to enable a strong educational and informational effort using broadcast media, including public radio and TV, to advise and inform the public on how to deal with the pandemic. The lawmakers requested all radio and television media, including  more

Rep. Gonzalez Announces $229,314 for Nuestra Clinica Del Valle for Coronavirus Response and Treatment
MCALLEN, Texas, March 27 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced $229,314 in Coronavirus (COVID-19) supplemental funding for Nuestra Clinica Del Valle. These funds are part of the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, which was Congress' first response to COVID-19, enacted on March 6, 2020. "I hope these federal funds will continue to be disseminated quickly," said Congressman Gonzalez  more

Rep. Gonzalez Announces Hidalgo and Brooks Counties Named Primary Disaster Counties
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced that Hidalgo and Brooks Counties were designated as primary disaster counties and Duval, Jim Hogg, Live Oak were designated as contiguous disaster counties by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue qualifying them for federal assistance. "Due to ongoing drought conditions in South Texas, USDA Secretary Purdue has designated several coun  more

Rep. Gonzalez Calls for Support for Workers in Energy
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced his support, along with a group of bipartisan Congressional Members, to ensure that any stimulus or relief legislation addresses the unique needs of those who work in the energy industry. In a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, the members hi  more

Rep. Gonzalez Calls on Texas Governor Abbott to Issue a Statewide Shelter-In-Place Order
WASHINGTON, March 23 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 22: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) called on Texas Governor Greg Abbott to issue a statewide shelter-in-place order to curb the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and flatten the curve: "Today I am calling on Governor Abbott to immediately implement a statewide order for Texans to shelter-in-place to stop the proliferation of COVID-19. As a state, Texas has the highest level of uninsured peo  more

Rep. Gonzalez Encourages Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19 to Apply for SBA Disaster Assistance
MCALLEN, Texas, March 25 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) is encouraging small businesses in the 15th District of Texas impacted by COVID-19 to apply for U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loans. These low-interest federal disaster loans provide for Texas small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the COVID-19. The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance availab  more

Rep. Gonzalez Leads Push for Financial Literacy Education Commission Emergency Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) introduced a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives to direct the Financial Literacy and Education Commission, under the U.S. Department of the Treasury, to collect a list of financial tools to help consumers recover from financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Congressman Gonzalez introduced this bill for the ease of consumers and to provide Ameri  more

Rep. Gonzalez Tests Negative for COVID-19
MCALLEN, Texas, March 26 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following statement regarding a negative test for coronavirus: "After coming in close contact with a House colleague two weeks ago, who I later learned contracted COVID-19, I opted to enter self-quarantine. "I am thankful to report that I have taken the COVID-19 test and the results were negative. "While I have tested negative, I will continue to follow the advice of medical experts and maintain social distancing practices  more

Rep. Gonzalez: South Texas Congressmen Urge FEMA Administrator Gaynor, CDC Director Redfield and HHS Secretary Azar to Equip Texas Hospitals With Lifesaving Medical Supplies
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 23: On Sunday, Congressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), Filemon Vela (TX-34), and Henry Cuellar (TX-28) sent a letter urging Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Peter Gaynor, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr. Robert Redfield, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar, and Assistant Secretary Robert Kadlec requesting adequate medical supplies   more

Rep. Hurd Announces Over a Half-Million Dollars in Aid to Local Health Care Facilities
SAN ANTONIO, Texas, March 26 -- Rep. Will Hurd, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Representative Will Hurd (TX-23) announced that the Department of Health and Human Services awarded seven grants to health centers in the 23rd congressional district to continue combating the current pandemic. The funds awarded to the community health facilities totaled $502,036. "Our medical professionals are on the frontlines of the COVID-19 battle, so it is essential we provide our health care c  more

Rep. Johnson Announces $1.6 Million in Federal Funding for ChildCareGroup
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson announced that ChildCareGroup has been awarded $1,668,020 from the U.S. Department of Health And Human Services for Head Start Projects. "It is vital that we support our childcare professionals who develop and implement programs dedicated to helping families across North Texas," said Congresswoman Johnson. "I am thrilled to announce that $1,668,020 in new grant f  more

Rep. Johnson Announces $2.8 Million in Federal Funding for Children's Medical Center Dallas
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson announced that the Children's Medical Center Dallas has been awarded $2,880,612 from the U.S. Department of Health And Human Services for the Childrens Graduate Medical Education Program. "In our current times, it is more critical now than ever that we support and expand our medical workforce to meet the needs of our public health emergencies. I am proud to announ  more

Rep. Johnson Marks 10th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, Calls on Trump Administration to End ACA Lawsuit
DECATUR, Georgia, March 24 -- Rep. Henry C. 'Hank' Johnson Jr., D-Georgia, issued the following news release on March 23: On the 10th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act [ACA], Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) called on the Trump Administration to end its Texas v. U.S. lawsuit, which would strike down the entirety of the ACA including pre-existing condition protections for 130 million Americans and at least 1.8 million Georgians, amid the coronavirus pandemic. "For a decade, Democrats have stood s  more

Rep. Lee Marks 10th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, Calls on Trump Administration to End ACA Lawsuit
OAKLAND, California, March 24 -- Rep. Barbara Lee, D-California, issued the following news release on March 23: On the 10th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Congresswoman Lee called on the Trump Administration to end its Texas v. U.S. lawsuit, which would strike down the entirety of the ACA, as well as pre-existing condition protections for 130 million Americans, including more than 6 million Californians, amid the coronavirus pandemic. "For a decade, Democrats have stood strong a  more

Rep. McCaul Applauds Indictment of Maduro & Regime Officials
WASHINGTON, March 27 -- Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement applauding the Justice Department's indictment of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro and regime officials. "Nicolas Maduro is a criminal and indicted drug trafficker, as are the officials of his illegitimate regime who engage with FARC terrorists in Colombia for personal gain at the expense of the Venezuelan people. "I strongly commend the Tru  more

Rep. McCaul Calls on Major Tech Companies to Deplatform CCP
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following news release on March 24: Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX), Lead Republican of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today sent a letter to the CEO's of Amazon, Facebook, Google, and Twitter, calling on them to ban all Chinese Communist Party (CCP) media outlets and their officials who are disseminating disinformation about COVID-19 on their respective pla  more

Rep. McCaul Calls on WHO to State Health Risks of Wildlife Markets
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- 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 of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, sent a letter to the Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO), calling on the organization to state the clear public health risks of wildlife markets, also referred to as wet markets, one of which is the suspected birthplace of the COVID-  more

Rep. McCaul Statement on Death of Bob Levinson in Iranian Custody
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on the death of ex-FBI agent Bob Levinson in Iranian custody: "Bob Levinson's death in Iranian custody is a tragedy. He dedicated himself to our country as a federal law enforcement agent and was loved by his family, who fought every day to bring him home. "I have long worked to hold Iran accountable for unjustly detaining American citizens.   more

Rep. McCaul: CCP is Exacerbating a Health Crisis by Selling Faulty Equipment
WASHINGTON, March 27 -- Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on multiple reports that the Chinese Communist Party was selling faulty medical equipment to the countries hardest hit by coronavirus: "While the Chinese Communist Party is desperately attempting to shift the blame by casting itself as a protector of global health, the truth is now emerging behind the propaganda they push. "Most of these so-cal  more

Rep. McCaul: Top House Members Call on EU to Increase Pressure on Putin Associate Yevgeniy Prigozhin
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, ranking Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following news release: The top four Members of the US House of Representatives on European Affairs sent a bipartisan letter urging Ambassador Stavros Lambrinidis, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to the United States, to work with the US on sanctioning Putin's close associate Yevgeniy Prigozhin. The letter calls on the European Union to harmonize their   more

Rep. Olson Joins Houston Colleagues in Effort to Secure PPE for Health Care Workers & First Responders
HOUSTON, March 25 -- Rep. Pete Olson, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Pete Olson (TX-22) joined a bipartisan group of members of the Houston Congressional Delegation led by Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) to ensure health care workers and first responders on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic can obtain the personal protective equipment (PPE) they need. In a letter to Congressional leadership, the members called for the next coronavirus legislation to include any mecha  more

Rep. Roy: Important News for Small Business Owners as We Combat Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, issued the following news release: SBA has included the entire state of Texas in its Economic Injury Disaster Declaration and granted access to its Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, which will provide long-term, low-interest loans to qualifying businesses across the state! This is exactly what I have been calling for to help our local small businesses in Central Texas bridge the gap. Fantastic news! Texas small businesses who believe  more

Rep. Taylor to Host Coronavirus Telephone Town Hall
PLANO, Texas, March 24 -- Rep. Van Taylor, R-Texas, issued the following news release: To provide information to his constituents and answer their questions, United States Congressman Van Taylor will host a free, telephone town hall event tomorrow, March 24, 2020 at 3:45 PM CT. Open to residents of Texas' Third Congressional District, Congressman Taylor will be joined by Collin County Judge Chris Hill, State Representatives Jeff Leach and Matt Shaheen, and officials from the Collin County Depa  more

Rep. Thornberry's Statement on Delayed Coronavirus Relief
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, issued the following statement on the status of negotiations for the 3rd coronavirus economic relief package: "It is unbelievable what Speaker Pelosi is demanding be included in the economic recovery bill now being negotiated -- parts of the "Green New Deal," more OSHA regulations, minimum wage hike, federalize voting -- and Democratic Senators are following along. It is terribly wrong to urge this crisis to force through a blatantly partisa  more

Rep. Veasey Calls for Congressional Leadership to Address Needs of People in Energy in Relief Legislation
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) joins a bipartisan call for Congressional leadership to ensure additional relief legislation addresses the unique challenges facing the people who work in the energy industry. In a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, the members highlight the challenges facing th  more

Rep. Veasey Leads Legislation to Offer Small Business Contractors Relief During Coronavirus Pandemic
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 23: In the face of the Coronavirus pandemic, small businesses are facing an unprecedented threat to their livelihood. Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) of the Small Business Committee introduced legislation that would provide relief to small businesses across the country by granting flexibility to small business federal contractors and expediting the contract award process so that affected contractors ca  more

Rep. Veasey Leads Letter Asking for Relief for Service Industry Small Businesses
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) sent a letter to President Trump and the Small Business Administration asking for help to inject liquidity that provides much-needed relief into small businesses in the service industries that rely on travel and tourism. A key reason for the disproportionate impact upon these small businesses relates to a business model that is aided by advanced payments by customers for a servi  more

Rep. Veasey Releases Resource Guide for North Texas Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) released a small business resource guide to help small businesses throughout the 33rd District as the North Texas region fights the spread of the Coronavirus Pandemic. "Small businesses play a crucial part in our economy and we must ensure they have the resources to get through this pandemic," said Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33). "I want the small business community to know th  more

Rep. Vela Announces $400K Grant Award to TAMUK
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Congressman Filemon Vela (D-TX) announced that the US. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded a $413,738 grant to the National Natural Toxins Research Center at Texas A&M Kingsville (TAMUK). The grant will allow for research on toxins found in snake venom their effect on people who have suffered from a snake bite. "Texas A&M Kingsville continues to make great strides in advancing academic  more

Rep. Vela: South Texas Congressmen Urge FEMA Administrator Gaynor, CDC Director Redfield, HHS Secretary Azar to Equip Texas Hospitals With Lifesaving Medical Supplies
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 23: On Sunday, Congressmen Filemon Vela (TX-34), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and Henry Cuellar (TX-28) sent a letter urging Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Peter Gaynor, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr. Robert Redfield, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar, and Assistant Secretary Robert Kadlec requesting adequate medical supplies for s  more

Reps. Doggett, Sen. Casey Author Bicameral Legislation to Ensure Special Enrollment Session for Marketplace Coverage During Public Health Emergencies Like COVID-19
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, issued the following news release: On the tenth anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and as the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across the United States, Rep. Doggett (D-TX), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, and Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced legislation to require a special enrollment period any time there is a public health emergency declaration, such as COVID-19, and to require insurance plans to cover any   more

Reps. Johnson, Hastings Call for Emergency Aid for Homeless and Housing Insecure Americans in Coronavirus Relief Package
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, issued the following news release: The Co-Chairs of the Congressional Homelessness Caucus, Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) and Representatives Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) sent the following letter to House leadership requesting the inclusion of $200 million in emergency response funding for FEMA's Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) in the 3rd COVID-19 relief package. In light of the unprecedented economic and health to  more

Reps. Johnson, Veasey, Allred Release Statement in Support of Dallas County 'Stay Home Stay Safe' Measures
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Colin Allred, D-Texas, issued the following joint statement with Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, and Marc Veasey, D-Texas, in support of Dallas County's Stay Home Stay Safe measures: "The health and safety of our North Texas community is always our top priority. The spread of this virus is unprecedented and it is going to take a once in a generation response to combat and contain COVID-19. "Though we know many North Texans are already making huge sacrifices t  more

Reps. Johnson, Veasey, Allred Release Statement in Support of Dallas County 'Stay Home Stay Safe' Measures
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, issued the following joint statement with Reps. Marc Veasey D-Texas, and Colin Allred, D-Texas, in support of Dallas County's Stay Home Stay Safe measures: "The health and safety of our North Texas community is always our top priority. The spread of this virus is unprecedented and it is going to take a once in a generation response to combat and contain COVID-19. "Though we know many North Texans are already making huge sacrifices t  more

Reps. Roe, Schrier Lead Introduction of Bipartisan Immediate Relief for Rural Facilities and Providers Act of 2020
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Rep. Phil Roe, R-Tennessee, issued the following news release: Reps. Phil Roe, M.D. (R-Tenn.) and Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-Wash.) released the following statement after introducing H.R.6365, the Immediate Relief for Rural Facilities and Providers Act of 2020 with Reps. Larry Bucshon, M.D. (R-Ind.); Rep. Ami Bera, M.D. (D-Calif.); Buddy Carter (R-Ga.); Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-Calif.); Brian Babin, D.D.S. (R-Texas); Terri Sewell (D-Ala.); Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Texas); Mark G  more

Reps. Veasey, Johnson, Allred Release Statement in Support of Dallas County 'Stay Home Stay Safe' Measures
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, issued the following joint statement with Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas; and Colin Allred, D-Texas, in support of Dallas County's Stay Home Stay Safe measures: "The health and safety of our North Texas community is always our top priority. The spread of this virus is unprecedented and it is going to take a once in a generation response to combat and contain COVID-19. "Though we know many North Texans are already making huge sacrifices t  more

Sen. Cornyn on Fox: Climate Change Studies, Solar Tax Credits Holding Up Coronavirus Aid
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the delay of the CARES Act, critical legislation to get relief to Texans dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, by Senate Democrats on Fox News' Bill Hemmer Reports. The Washington Times reported that Senate Democrats are demanding unrelated policy reforms, like solar and wind tax credits and new fuel emission standards, be included in the bill. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn's   more

Sen. Cornyn Votes for Bipartisan Coronavirus Relief Bill
WASHINGTON, March 23 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following statement after he voted to advance the bipartisan Coronavirus relief bill, the CARES Act: "This legislation, negotiated with Democrats, would provide immediate relief to folks who've lost their paychecks, small businesses running low on cash, and healthcare providers putting their lives at risk to treat this virus. "It's incomprehensible that in the midst of a national crisis Democrats have chosen to block this bipartisan  more

Sen. Cornyn: Democrats Acting 'Reckless and Irresponsible'
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the delay of the CARES Act, critical legislation to get relief to Texans dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, by Senate Democrats on Fox News' Fox and Friends. The Washington Times reported that Senate Democrats are demanding unrelated policy reforms, like solar and wind tax credits and new fuel emission standards, be included in the bill. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn's inte  more

Sen. Cornyn: Democrats Delaying Coronavirus Relief for Liberal Wish List
WASHINGTON, March 24 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the delay of the CARES Act, critical legislation to get relief to Texans dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, by Senate Democrats on KFYO's 'The Chad Hasty Show.' The Washington Times reported that Senate Democrats are demanding unrelated policy reforms, like solar and wind tax credits and new fuel emission standards, be included in the bill. "I'm...pretty frustrated   more

Sen. Cruz Votes in Favor of Third Coronavirus Relief Package
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following statement after voting in favor of the 3rd coronavirus relief package, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act: "Our country is in a crisis. When millions of lives are on the line, we have a responsibility to act and to act decisively. Members of our communities are dying, our hospitals and medical facilities face being overwhelmed with new patients, small businesses are closing their doors, millions of workers   more

Sen. Cruz: Coronavirus Updates
WASHINGTON, March 23 -- 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: Coronavirus Updates
WASHINGTON, March 25 -- 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 (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html  more

Sen. Cruz: Together, We Will #CombatCOVID19 and Ultimately Defeat It
HOUSTON, Texas, March 27 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: After the Senate unanimously passed the third coronavirus relief package, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, late Wednesday night, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released a new video, 'Together, We Will #CombatCOVID19,' highlighting Texans' acts of heroism and kindness in the face of this crisis. WATCH: Together, We Will #CombatCOVID19 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBZAgoLPjXw&f  more

Sen. Warren, Congressman Doggett, & Congressional Progressive Caucus Leaders Pocan & Jayapal, Continue Call for Conditions on Corporate Bailouts in Next Stimulus Bill
WASHINGTON, March 23 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release: United States Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chairs Congressman Mark Pocan (D-Wisc.) and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), and Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), called for strict guardrails to be included in any stimulus package that uses taxpayer dollars to bail out large corporations, in order to ensure the stimulus reaches workers and their   more

Sen. Warren, Reps. Doggett, Pocan, Jayapal, Continue Call for Conditions on Corporate Bailouts in Next Stimulus Bill
WASHINGTON, March 23 -- Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, issued the following news release on March 22: United States Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chairs Congressman Mark Pocan (D-Wisc.) and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), and Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), called for strict guardrails to be included in any stimulus package that uses taxpayer dollars to bail out large corporations, in order to ensure the stimulus reaches workers and their  more

Sens. Cornyn, Cotton, McSally Back Hawley Resolution to Investigate the Chinese Communist Party's Coronavirus Cover-Up
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, issued the following news release: Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), and Martha McSally (R-Arz.) announced they have cosponsored Senator Josh Hawley's (R-Mo.) resolution calling for an international investigation into the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) cover-up of the early spread of COVID-19. The resolution calls on China to pay damages for its criminal conduct to the United States and other nations impacted by the pan  more

Sens. Cornyn, Cruz Urge POTUS to Support Gov. Abbott's Disaster Declaration Request
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news release on March 25: U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) urged President Trump to support Governor Abbott's request for a major disaster declaration for COVID-19. If granted, the declaration would allow FEMA to provide personal protective equipment (PPE), medical and testing supplies, medical response personnel, and hospital beds for Texans. Today's letter follows their letter to President Trump on Mar  more

Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Urge the President to Support Gov. Abbott's Disaster Declaration Request
WASHINGTON, March 26 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following news release: U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas), on Tuesday urged President Trump to support Governor Abbott's request for a major disaster declaration for COVID-19. If granted, the declaration would allow FEMA to provide personal protective equipment (PPE), medical and testing supplies, medical response personnel, and hospital beds for Texans. The letter follows their letter to President Trump on March 1  more

Sens. Menendez, Booker, Rep. Pascrell Urge Trump to Quit ACA Attacks in Light of COVID-19 Crisis
WASHINGTON, March 23 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee that sets national health policy, Senator Cory Booker and Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (N.J.-09) called on President Trump to reconsider his actions to undermine the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, which has resulted in nearly 2,000 positive cases and 20 deaths in New Jersey. "We write to urge yo  more

Spectrum News: Congressman Doggett - Let People Buy ACA Insurance During Pandemic
AUSTIN, Texas, March 25 -- Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, is calling on his colleagues in Congress to provide affordable health care coverage to people who may be at risk of developing COVID-19. He introduced legislation Monday that would require a special enrollment period any time there is a public health emergency declaration such as COVID-19. "If there was ever a time that people would need it, affordable access to a family phy  more

Trump Nominee for USAID Assistant Administrator Confirmed by Senate
WASHINGTON, March 23 -- The U.S. Senate confirmed the nomination of an individual for a position in the federal government on March 20: Alma L. Golden, of Texas, to be an Assistant Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development.  more