Press release issued 5/ 22/ 18
WASHINGTON, DC.— Late last night, Rep. Derek Kilmer’s bill, the Major General Tim Lowenberg Cyber Defenders Act was introduced in the Senate by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Joe Manchin (D-WV). The bill’s introduction adds another pathway for success in Kilmer’s yearlong push to protect the nation’s critical state and local infrastructure like voting machines and public utilities from cyberattacks.
“From voting machines to our power grids, states control some of the nation’s most critical infrastructure. That’s why the National Guard is uniquely ready to protect our elections and critical infrastructure from cyberattacks,” Kilmer said. “I am glad to see the bill’s introduction in the Senate. November is coming fast, and it is past time to give other states the ability to follow Washington’s lead so voters can be confident in our election systems.”
The bill’s introduction comes as members of Congress received a classified briefing on election security, and just one week after Kilmer joined lawmakers in challenging the White House’s push to eliminate the position of special assistant to the president and cyber security coordinator. The letter is available for download here.
Yesterday, The Washington Post published a survey in which 95 out of 100 of the nation’s leading cyber security experts believed states are not sufficiently protected against cyberthreats ahead of the midterms.
In that article, Matt Blaze, a cryptographer and computer science professor from the University of Pennsylvania said, “Few if any state and local IT departments are equipped to protect this infrastructure against the full force of a hostile intelligence service, and these systems are very attractive targets for disruption.”
Kilmer believes the National Guard is best equipped to fill the gap.
“States across the nation can benefit from the private sector expertise that weekend warriors bring to the table as members of the National Guard.” Kilmer said. “In Washington, we benefit from the investments companies like Amazon and Microsoft make in their employees when those folks put on a National Guard uniform. These units have the relationships already and can hit the ground running. There’s no time to waste.”
The bill’s introduction in the Senate comes as Congress considers the National Defense Authorization Act.
Related press release from Sen. Cantwell: Cantwell, Manchin Introduce Legislation to Bolster National Guard Cyber Defender Units to Protect Critical Infrastructure from Cyber-Attack
Press released on 5/ 21/ 18
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As cyber-attacks across the United States continue to grow, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) today introduced legislation to bolster National Guard cybersecurity capabilities nationwide to better protect public and privately-operated infrastructure, including election systems, dams, and electric grid.
The legislation, the Major General Tim Lowenberg National Guard Cyber Defenders Act (Lowenberg Cyber Act), approves additional resources to improve our nation’s cybersecurity posture by establishing National Guard Cyber Civil Support Teams in every state and territory to bridge the gap between federal and non-federal cybersecurity efforts. Because critical infrastructure is primarily non-federal, states, tribes, and local governments are left to secure these assets themselves. Cyber Civil Support Teams would work to prevent and respond to cyber incidents under the direction of governors and the state adjutant general, building a trusted link between states, critical infrastructure providers, and the federal government. They would also provide ongoing defensive cyber training to owners and operators of critical infrastructure.
“With cyber-attacks on the rise, we need to strengthen our defenses and protect critical infrastructure,” said Senator Cantwell. “Establishing National Guard cyber teams in each state will make sure the resources and expertise are in place to respond to the growing threats. Washington state’s National Guard Cyber team is a proven model and is leading the way in supporting local responses to cyber incidents.”
"As cyber-attacks on the United States increase, we must be able to protect our critical infrastructure, which most of the time is protected by local governments that are underfunded and ill-equipped to defend against sophisticated foreign adversaries. These National Guard cyber civil support teams will help local governments prevent and defend against cyber-attacks, terrorist events and emergencies that threaten critical national assets like our election systems, dams, electric grid, and schools. This is common sense legislation that should be passed immediately,” Senator Manchin said.
“Some of the nation’s most critical infrastructure from voting machines to power grids are controlled at the state and local level. The National Guard is uniquely ready to protect our elections and critical infrastructure from cyberattacks,” said Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA), the sponsor of companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “I’ve pushed hard on this in the House for the last year because Washington’s national guard is leading the way, and it’s time to give other states the ability to follow our lead so we can be confident in our election systems.”
The Lowenberg Cyber Act builds on the work of the Washington state National Guard’s 252nd Cyberspace Operations Group, which is one of the first-in-the-nation teams of cyber defenders dedicated to combating cyber criminals, strengthening critical infrastructure, and responding when hackers strike.
Specifically, the bill authorizes $50 million in funding for National Guard Cyber Teams. This funding would be used to establish these teams in every state and territory, as well as to provide training, upgrade hardware and software, and bolster network capabilities.
Specifically, the new National Guard Cyber Teams would:
Work with critical infrastructure operators and the private sector to establish and exchange best practices, develop integrated response plans, and conduct exercises
Help U.S. Cyber Command communicate classified threat information to states and the private sector
Help coordinate federal, state, and local resources during cyber-attacks
Respond, with the concurrence of governors and federal authorities, to cyber-attacks and help the private sector with response and recovery
The legislation has drawn strong support from the Washington state National Guard and the National Guard Association of the United States.
"National Guard Cyber Civil Support Teams will work with our public and private partners to prevent, assess and respond to full-spectrum cyber events, including emergencies, terrorist incidents and cyber-attacks. I thank Senator Cantwell for recognizing the urgency of cyber preparedness, especially within the space of critical infrastructure," said Major General Bret Daugherty, the Adjutant General and Commander of the Washington National Guard.
“The convergence of digital cyber-attacks causing very real physical consequences is not a matter of science fiction anymore. It’s a real threat that every American faces right now. The National Guard exists in every state and territory, and these Cyber Civil Support Teams are in a unique position to be that linkage between the Federal government and the states in cyber protection and response, just as they have always been for other emergencies like hurricanes, fires, and other disasters,” said Colonel Gent Welsh, Commander of the 194th Wing of the Washington Air National Guard. “I applaud Sen Cantwell’s leadership in boosting our cyber deterrence capabilities. Our adversaries need to know we have a team on defense because our adversary’s offense has been running the field for the past decade with relative impunity.”
“Our National Guard members are community based skilled professionals who can and want to protect our states from cyber threats,” said Colonel Scott Humphrey, Vice President of the National Guard Association of Washington. “Located throughout each state and territory, we are the right choice to assist our local communities, states and territories in preventing, assessing and responding to cyber emergencies. We thank Senator Cantwell for her leadership in protecting our vital critical infrastructure.”
The introduction of the bill comes as Senator Cantwell continues her advocacy for increased cybersecurity resources to defend many different aspects of critical infrastructure in the United States. In March of 2017, she called on President Trump to take urgent action to defend the American energy infrastructure from cyber-attacks. Earlier this year, she followed up by requesting the U.S. Department of Energy conduct a cyber threat assessment on the grid. Senator Cantwell has also called on the Trump Administration to invest in cybersecurity and facilitate increased collaboration between the government, private sector, utilities, military, and academia to protect critical infrastructure. And in March of 2018, Senator Cantwell helped to secure $380 million in funding for grants to help states protect their election systems from cyber-attacks.
The legislation is named after Major General Tim Lowenberg, who served as the Washington state Adjutant General from 1999 to 2012. In that position, he commanded all of the Washington Army and Air National Guard forces and served as the Homeland Security Advisor to the governor of Washington state. Maj. Gen. Lowenberg passed away in August of 2017. The bill is named in his honor to recognize his commitment to issues of cybersecurity as the head of the Washington National Guard.
A companion to this legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA), with a bipartisan group of 37 House members.
Kilmer Encourages Local Students to Apply for Military Service Academy Nominations, Hosting Academy Nights May 24th and 31st
Press release issued 5/ 22/ 18TACOMA, Wash.—Today, Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06) encouraged local students to apply for nomination to the nation’s military service academies and announced informational sessions across Washington’s 6th Congressional District.
“It’s an honor to consider students for service academy nominations,” Kilmer said. “Every year there are a lot of great applications. Reading through them makes pretty clear to me that our region’s future is in good hands.”
As a member of Congress, Kilmer can nominate students to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, NY; the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy at New London, CT does not require a nomination.
Kilmer and his team will host Service Academy Information Nights for interested students.
Locations are as follows:
Bremerton – May 24th
5:30 pm
City Council Chambers
Norm Dicks Government Center
345 6th St, Bremerton, WA 98337
Tacoma – May 31st
5:30 pm
AmVets Post 1
5717 S Tyler St, Tacoma, WA 98409
Kilmer posted a packet of materials for students interested in applying on his website. Visitors can click “Helping You” then “Service Academy Nomination” for information about the application process.
Most students applying to a service academy seek nomination from their Senators or Representatives. However, there are other ways to earn a nomination. For example, active duty personnel; ROTC cadets; the children of servicemembers who have received the Medal of Honor or are disabled, deceased or missing in action; and students nominated by the President and Vice President of the United States can also earn a spot at the service academies. Constituents who think they might be eligible to pursue a nomination under these categories can contact Kilmer’s office for more information.
TRUMP SENDS LETTER TO JOUNG UN...NO SUMMIT MEETING.
The following letter was posted on the White House webpage:https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/letter-chairman-kim-jong-un/
Editorial note: In essence the letter states because of Joung Un's angry statements, and hostility directed toward the States the Summit in all intensive purposes are called off. Kim Joung UN did this to himself, he had no intentions of giving up his nukes, he would never give up his tool to blackmail the west. Anyone who ever thought this mad man was about to give up his big firecrackers were fooling themselves. Joung UN is nothing more than a thug, and bully.
Of course Joung UN will use for propagana purpouse, with help from the liberal media of the west twisting what Joung UN did, in order to blame Trump in some way. As long as he has his "big brother" (China) looking out for him, you won't see any progress in disarming North Korea.
Related press release from the UN: UN chief ‘deeply concerned’ over cancellation of US-North Korea summit
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said on Thursday that he was “deeply concerned” by the cancellation of the planned meeting between the leaders of the United States and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), commonly-known as North Korea.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/05/1010581
UN chief launches new disarmament agenda ‘to secure our world and our future’
The United Nations chief announced a bold new vision for global disarmament on Thursday, to help eliminate nuclear arsenals and other deadly weapons from a world that is just “one mechanical, electronic and human error away” from destruction.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/05/1010551
WORLD HEADLINE NEWS FROM THE UN NEWS CENTER & OTHER SOURCES...
UN PRESS RELEASE: Adopting Resolution 2417 (2018), Security Council Strongly Condemns Starving of Civilians, Unlawfully Denying Humanitarian Access as Warfare Tactics
The Security Council today adopted a resolution condemning the starving of civilians as a method of warfare — as well as the unlawful denial of humanitarian access to civilian populations — with members welcoming it as a landmark expression of unity on those critical issues.---press released on 5/ 24/ 18
https://www.un.org/press/en/2018/sc13354.doc.htm
UN PRESS RELEASE: Continuing Session, Non-Governmental Organizations Committee Approves 42 Entities for Status with Economic and Social Council, Defers Action on 40 Others
The Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations, on day three of its resumed session, today recommended 42 entities for special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council, while deferring action on the status of 40 others.
https://www.un.org/press/en/2018/ecosoc6918.doc.htm
HIV/AIDS still impacting work and costing billions in lost earnings – new UN agency report
Outlining the economic and social toll HIV and AIDS continues to take on workers around the world, the International Labour Organization (ILO) called on Thursday for an “urgent effort” to improve treatment, step up testing and ensure healthier and more productive workplaces.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/05/1010561
Tackling corruption ‘from the top down’ essential, declares UN chief, marking key global treaty
Corruption and complicity know no geographical boundaries, and it is society’s most vulnerable who get hurt the most, senior United Nations officials said on Wednesday, calling on Government leaders to fight the scourge, “from the top down”.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2018/05/1010472
( More world news headlines on page 2)
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VA Caregiver Support Program provides resources and support to those who put their own lives on hold to care for a veteran with service-connected injuries
From a Sen. Murray press release dated 5/ 23/ 18https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=E4945C1D-D7A5-498C-900B-314DE6EEA16C
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the daughter of a World War II veteran, cheered the passage of the VA MISSION Act, which, among other things, includes a provision she wrote that will finally make veterans of all eras eligible for the Department of Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support Program. For years, the program has made resources such as a stipend, counseling, and training available to loved ones who have taken on a caregiver role for a veteran with service-connected injuries or illness, but up to this point, only post-9/11 veterans have been eligible for the popular program. Based on legislation championed by Senator Murray, the Caregiver provision included in the VA MISSION Act not only expands the program to include more veterans and their caregivers, it also strengthens it by adding available financial and legal resources. After passing in the Senate 92 to 5, the bill now goes to the president’s desk.
“When a servicemember suffers illness or injury while defending our freedoms, we have a responsibility to be there for them and their families, no matter what. Making sure resources, training, and a support system is available to them is a great way to start,” said Senator Murray. “The more veterans and their caregivers who are eligible for support, the closer we are to fulfilling our promise to care for those who’ve sacrificed so much on our behalf. I look forward to working to ensure this expansion is implemented just as Congress intended—by putting the needs and well-being of veterans first.”
“We celebrate today’s passage of the VA MISSION Act in the Senate as the culmination of a years-long effort to ensure that veteran caregivers have access to the support they need and deserve, regardless of the era in which their veteran served,” said Senator Elizabeth Dole, Founder and CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. “Today’s victory would not have been possible without the stalwart leadership of Senators Murray and Collins, and Representative Langevin, and I thank them for their constant and passionate support of our nation’s hidden heroes.”
A longtime champion for strengthening federal investments in caring for veterans, during her time as Chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Senator Murray oversaw the initial implementation of the Caregiver Support Program in 2011, and during the rule-making process, fought back against efforts to curtail eligibility. Given the popularity and success of the program, Senator Murray first introduced legislation in 2014 to expand the program to veterans of all eras, reintroducing the legislation in 2015 and 2017. Senator Murray has also consistently worked to hold senior VA officials accountable for implementing the program in a way that works best for veterans and their caregivers, not the least of which is creating clear, standardized eligibility requirements.
“Today’s Senate approval of the VA MISSION Act includes a critically important extension of VA’s comprehensive caregiver benefits to veterans seriously injured prior to 9/11, providing greater fairness for veterans of all eras,” said DAV National Commander, Army veteran and former caregiver Delphine Metcalf-Foster. “For thousands of World War II, Korean, Vietnam and Gulf War veterans and their family caregivers, enactment of this legislation will finally provide them the recognition and support they have earned and deserve. This historic caregiver expansion would not have come to fruition without the inspired and tireless leadership of Senators Patty Murray and Susan Collins, as well as Congressman Jim Langevin.”
"PVA applauds the passage of the VA MISSION Act, and salutes the tireless work of Senator Murray,” said David Zurfluh, President, Paralyzed Veterans of America. “For eight years, Sen. Murray and her staff have steadily advocated for equal treatment of veterans' caregivers. Today’s achievement is a testament to her persistence. The lives of thousands of paralyzed veterans will be improved because of her good work.”
Senator Murray Applauds Announcement of the Start to Formal Columbia River Treaty Negotiations
Press release issued 5/ 22/ 18(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement on the U.S. Department of State announcement that the United States and Canada will begin formal negotiations next week to modernize the Columbia River Treaty, or CRT.
“The Columbia River Treaty is integral to so much of the Pacific Northwest way of life—from our economy, to our environment, to our culture and heritage—so it’s hard to overstate the importance of updating this Treaty to meet modern-day issues and getting this right. I applaud the U.S. Department of State for the extensive preparation and time already invested in the upcoming negotiations, and I look forward to productive conversation and action that benefits every party involved in this critically important pact.” To read more about the Columbia River Treaty, please click here.
Senator Cantwell Statement on Modernization of Columbia River Treaty
Press released on 5/ 22/ 18
https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cantwell-statement-on-modernization-of-columbia-river-treaty
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement after the U.S. State Department announced that formal negotiations for modernization of the Columbia River Treaty will begin on May 29 and 30 in Washington, D.C.:
“This is a very positive step. The State Department and Canada must now work to include input from all parties.”
Cantwell has been on the forefront of the charge to modernize the treaty. In March of 2016, Cantwell secured a commitment from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to move forward with negotiations, and later that year, she met with Canadian Ambassador David MacNaughton to discuss progress on the Canadian side. In August 2016, Cantwell led the Pacific Northwest congressional delegation in pushing the U.S. Department of State to make progress on modernizing the treaty.
🌍MORE WORLD NEWS HEADLINES...
UN PRESS RELEASE: In Message for Intergovernmental Consultations on Migration, Asylum, Refugees, Secretary-General Says Global Compacts Can Better Lives of Millions
Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the consultative meeting of the Intergovernmental Consultations on Migration, Asylum and Refugees, in Paris today:
https://www.un.org/press/en/2018/sgsm19050.doc.htm
US MISSION TO THE UN: Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Situation in Burundi
Deputy Political Coordinator, U.S. Mission to the United Nations
" The referendum has taken place against a backdrop of stalled progress in the East African Community-led dialogue, continuing repression, and an unstable political situation. The referendum further aggravates ongoing, acute political tensions, which have destabilizing effects for Burundi and the broader region.
While the government did allow vigorous campaigning by the opposition during the designated two-week campaign period, numerous cases of harassment and repression against referendum opponents in the months preceding the vote contributed to a climate of fear and intimidation, resulting in a climate that did not allow for a credible referendum. The absence of independent observers also undermines confidence in the reported result. We also condemn reports of armed groups killing 26 innocent civilians in the days leading up to the referendum. This climate of violence, fear, and repression underscores the need for serious dialogue to advance peace."
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8446
Remarks at a UN Security Council Open Debate on the Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict
"The state of affairs for the protection of civilians is desolate. Millions of people are bearing the consequences. Tens of thousands innocently dying from unlawful attacks involving explosive weapons and chemical weapons, deliberate attacks on schools and medical facilities, extra judicial killings, starvation, sexual violence, and blatant disregard for international humanitarian law. Many more civilians are either missing or have been forced from their homes; and medical and humanitarian personnel are being targeted at an alarming number. Sexual violence increasingly is being used as a tactic of war, and victims continue to be targeted based on their ethnic and religious backgrounds. Member States seemingly feel no qualms about routinely denying humanitarian access to civilians in dire need, from Burma to Yemen." ---Ambassador Kelley Currie, U.S. Representative for Economic and Social Affairs
https://usun.state.gov/remarks/8442
US STATE DEPT: Full Committee Hearing Review of the FY 2019 State Department Budget Request
SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Senator Menendez, as well. You were gracious enough to allow me to read that statement. I will – I have prepared remarks. They have been submitted for the record. I will save a couple minutes here this morning. A couple of other items that I want to mention off the top, things that have happened recently that I think are important to our diplomatic efforts around the world that I want to share with you and explain to you. And then I want to spend a couple minutes – you asked, Senator Corker, about what I’ve tried to do in my first, now, three weeks or three and a half weeks, to get the team back on the field. And I’m happy to share both what we’ve done and what I have in the queue, and how I’m thinking about that problem set now that I’ve had a chance to get on board and see a little bit more of the challenge that’s in front of me.
https://www.state.gov/secretary/remarks/2018/05/282486.htm
Unjustified Diplomatic Actions in Venezuela
Spokesperson Nauert (May 23): "The accusations behind the Maduro regime’s decision are unjustified; our Embassy officers have carried out their official duties responsibly and consistent with diplomatic practice and applicable provisions of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. We reject any suggestion to the contrary.
Today, the Department of State, in accordance with Article 9 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and Article 23 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, declared the Chargé d’Affaires of the Venezuelan embassy and the Deputy Consul General of the Venezuelan consulate in Houston personae non grata. They have been directed to leave the United States within 48 hours.
https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2018/05/282472.htm
U.S.-Brazil Bilateral Cooperation
On May 22, the U.S.-Brazil Permanent Forum on Security was launched. This initiative is a result of consistent cooperation between the United States and Brazil on fighting transnational crime, and based upon the strengthening of collaboration of law enforcement and security agencies in both countries
https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2018/05/282382.htm
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Cantwell Calls on Trump to Take Action to Lower Gas Prices
Press release issued 5/ 23/ 18Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, joined Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) to demand President Trump take action on rising gas prices in advance of the summer driving season.
“This weekend is the start of the driving season, and the average American household will pay $167 more in fuel costs this summer,” said Senator Cantwell during the event. “That is sticker shock to the American family – what they are seeing could get worse, and that is why we are calling on President Trump to act.”
During the event, Senator Cantwell announced a new letter to Trump urging him to “use all of your authority to take timely action to pressure the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and cooperating countries to increase world oil supplies in order to lower prices at the pump during the upcoming summer driving season.” The letter, which was also signed by Senators Schumer, Menendez, and Markey, outlines seven specific actions the president could take today to “make sure OPEC does not continue to suppress world crude oil supplies” and to “protect domestic policies that help consumers.”
“The American people want to know what the president plans to do about this,” said Cantwell during the announcement of the letter.
According to AAA, average gasoline prices in Washington state are currently the third-highest in the country, at $3.40 per gallon. In some parts of the state, gas prices are close to $4 per gallon. Nationwide, the average price of gas is up more than 50 cents per gallon from Memorial Day last year and has jumped 12 cents per gallon in the past 14 days, hitting a four-year high.
“The impact of rising fuel prices on our economy and on family budgets is significant and widespread,” write the senators in the letter. “According to a recent analysis by Goldman Sachs, the run up in oil prices will roughly cancel out positive effects from tax cuts this year, with the greatest impact on households that can least afford it.”
Cantwell Opioid Bill Gets Bipartisan Support from 39 Attorneys General
Press release issued 5/ 21/ 18Washington, D.C. – As the United States continues to grapple with the opioid and heroin epidemic, a bill introduced by U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to hold drug manufacturers accountable for misleading advertising and negligent distribution practices today received the support of a bipartisan group of Attorneys General from 39 U.S. states and territories.
In a letter addressed to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee and the Senate Judiciary Committee, the AGs highlighted the importance of holding drug manufacturers accountable and urged support for Senator Cantwell’s Comprehensive Addiction Reform, Education, and Safety (CARES) Act, provisions of which are also included in CARA 2.0, a comprehensive opioid education, treatment, and recovery bill co-sponsored by Senator Cantwell.
“CARES increases penalties on drug manufacturers that fail to report suspicious transactions and maintain effective controls against diversion,” the AGs wrote. “Diversion of prescription opioids has devastated communities in our states. The consequences for turning a blind eye to suspicious opioid orders cannot merely be a cost of doing business. We urge you to support CARA 2.0 and the CARES Act to ensure that penalties effectively hold manufacturers accountable and help stem diversion.”
The CARES Act strengthens federal penalties on drug companies that fail to monitor and report suspicious opioid distribution, while also increasing transparency into existing federal oversight of opioid manufacturing, advertising, and distribution. It increases the federal civil and criminal penalties on companies that fail to prevent their drugs from entering illicit markets, provides transparency about opioid manufacturers that break the law, provides resources to investigate bad actors, and authorizes additional funding to target and dismantle illicit heroin trafficking organizations. The bill is cosponsored by California Senator Kamala Harris.
The letter was signed by the Attorneys General of Ohio, Washington, Alaska, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Virginia.
The full text of the letter is available HERE and below.
Dear Chairs Alexander and Grassley and Ranking Members Murray and Feinstein:
State attorneys general have been fighting the opioid crisis on numerous fronts, including protecting consumers from deceptive marketing of prescription opioids, disrupting illicit trafficking networks and closing pill mills. Recognizing the scope of this crisis, we thank you for funding provisions of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) 2.0. By providing expanded treatment, increased naloxone access for first responders, and support for veterans treatment courts, these funds will assist states like ours that are suffering greatly from the opioid epidemic. Following up on this critical issue, we respectfully request that you now help expedite passage of the CARA 2.0 Act of 2018 (S. 2456), sponsored by Senator Portman and a bipartisan group of colleagues, to further address the devastation this epidemic has caused in our communities and to help hold opioid manufacturers appropriately accountable. In particular, we write to highlight the need for Section 14 of CARA 2.0, which is also contained in a separate bill, the Comprehensive Addiction Reform, Education, and Safety (CARES) Act of 2018 (S. 2440), introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell and Kamala Harris.
CARA 2.0 and CARES increase penalties on drug manufacturers that fail to report suspicious transactions and maintain effective controls against diversion of their drugs to the illicit market. Specifically, the bills increase civil penalties from $10,000 to $100,000 per violation for negligence in reporting suspicious transaction activity. The bills also double the maximum criminal penalty from $250,000 to $500,000 for companies that willfully disregard or knowingly fail to keep proper reporting systems or fail to report suspicious activity.
Opioid manufacturers have a duty to ensure that they take steps quickly to prevent their drugs from entering the illicit market. Moreover, these companies, which know their market better than anyone, are well-positioned to identify suspicious activity. Opioid manufacturers can detect certain doctors who consistently prescribe many more opioids than their peers and facilities with sudden, significant increases in opioid orders. Company sales representatives directly observe warning signs, such as large numbers of patients paying in cash or prescriptions being given or sold to non-patients.
We have seen opioid manufacturers ignore their responsibilities. For example, in response to a 2007 multi-state settlement, Purdue Pharma promised to create an abuse and diversion detection program to detect and report atypical prescribing patterns. Despite the court order, Purdue has remained silent about suspicious prescribing activity it should have reported, including ignoring the warnings of their own sales representatives about particular physicians. In Washington, for instance, Purdue waited nearly three years after a sales representative raised concerns to report a physician to the DEA. The sales representative noticed that the physician operated a largely cash-based business. Purdue analyzed his prescribing patters and found that in the six months prior to the representative’s report, he wrote more than 1,000 OxyContin prescriptions worth nearly half a million dollars, far exceeding his peers. Rather than fulfilling their responsibility to report this activity promptly, the company continued to supply opioids for nearly three years.
Diversion of prescription opioids has devastated communities in our states. The consequences for turning a blind eye to suspicious opioid orders cannot merely be a cost of doing business. We urge you to support CARA 2.0 and the CARES Act to ensure that penalties effectively hold manufacturers accountable and help stem diversion.
NATIONAL HEADLINES...
White House fact sheet: President Donald J. Trump Supports Regulatory Reforms For Community Banks, Credit Unions, and Consumers
REDUCING UNNECESSARY REGULATORY BURDENS: President Donald J. Trump supports legislation to streamline and appropriately tailor our Nation’s financial regulations.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trump-supports-regulatory-reforms-community-banks-credit-unions-consumers/
White House fact sheet: President Donald J. Trump is Reforming and Modernizing American Commercial Space Policy
REFORMING SPACE POLICY: President Trump’s Space Policy Directive – 2 reforms America’s commercial space regulatory framework, ensuring our place as a leader in space commerce.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trump-reforming-modernizing-american-commercial-space-policy/
DOD: Mattis Welcomes 983 New Lieutenants Into Air Force
WASHINGTON --
Defense Secretary James N. Mattis told the 983 graduating cadets from the U.S. Air Force Academy that now their missions commence and he expects them to follow in the footsteps of giants.
https://www.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1530474/mattis-welcomes-983-new-lieutenants-into-air-force/
DOJ: District Court Permanently Enjoins Two Individuals and One Company Responsible for a Florida-Based Mail Fraud Scheme
A federal court in Florida entered a consent decree of permanent injunction against two individuals and one corporation preventing them from operating an alleged mail-fraud scheme, the Department of Justice announced today.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/district-court-permanently-enjoins-two-individuals-and-one-company-responsible-florida-based
Acting Associate Attorney General Jesse Panuccio Delivers Remarks at the 35th National Missing Children’s Day Ceremony
Quote: " Through our Internet Crimes Against Children task force program, we are supporting more than 4,500 federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies nationwide as they combat computer-facilitated child exploitation. ICAC task force investigations have led to the arrests of more than 83,000 individuals suspected of sexually exploiting children – more than 10,300 in the last year alone. In 2017, the ICAC task forces conducted more than 66,000 investigations of technology-facilitated crimes against children and supported almost 2,000 regional law enforcement trainings. Task force personnel have also given more than 12,800 presentations on Internet safety over the last year"
https://www.justice.gov/opa/speech/acting-associate-attorney-general-jesse-panuccio-delivers-remarks-35th-national-missing
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The Path Forward for U.S.-China Trade
US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BLOG ARTICLE BY, THOMAS J. DONOHUE
President and CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
https://www.uschamber.com/series/above-the-fold/the-path-forward-us-china-trade
The trade relationship between the U.S. and China has been in the spotlight in recent weeks. The two countries have an enormous impact on each other’s economies, trading more than $700 billion worth of goods and services every year. Much of that trade benefits small and midsize businesses throughout the U.S.
Amid all the business our nations conduct, there are bound to be issues of contention and disagreement. This is especially true given the gap between America’s model of free enterprise and China’s model of state capitalism. Nonetheless, it’s important that we agree on a common set of rules for the global economy and international trade—and then live by them. These rules must ensure that both of our economies can compete on a level playing field.
Significant progress must come soon, and it must be visible. China needs to make faster and more serious progress on market reforms and in establishing a transparent, level playing field based on the rule of law. The U.S. has serious concerns regarding a range of Chinese government policies and practices, including restricting access to its market, conditional participation in the market on technology transfer, and other regulatory measures that seek to undermine the value of U.S.-held intellectual property.
By the same token, our government must recognize what the business community knows full well: that an escalating series of unilateral tariffs is counterproductive. We don’t think it makes sense to penalize our own workers, consumers, and companies in the name of saving them from unfair competition. The focus must be on opening markets, eliminating subsidies, and ending regulations that are increasingly designed to frustrate competition.
Mutually beneficial commercial deals can and must continue to be successfully negotiated, even as we confront challenges. Further, American leadership in international economic and security affairs requires us to address these issues with China, and China’s leaders will not shy away from offering their perspectives in return. As the two most powerful nations on earth, we have shared responsibilities to foster global peace, prosperity, and stability.
The commercial issues before us today are important, and we should take them seriously. But we can work through them—not all of them overnight, but certainly over time. Our goal must be to secure near-term progress on as many of the systemic issues as possible so that we can regain the positive momentum in U.S.-China economic relations. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is ready to help preserve and expand our fruitful commercial links in a system that is open, level, and fair.
FTC Action Halts Deceptive Robocalls Aimed at Small Business Owners
Press release issued 5/ 23/ 18https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2018/05/ftc-action-halts-deceptive-robocalls-aimed-small-business-owners
The Federal Trade Commission has charged a Florida-based scheme with deceiving small business owners by falsely claiming to represent Google, falsely threatening businesses with removal from Google search results, and falsely promising first-place or first-page placement in Google search results.
According to the FTC, the Point Break defendants have no relationship with Google, and yet they barrage consumers with robocalls threatening that Google will label their business “permanently closed” unless they “press one” to speak with a “Google specialist.” Telemarketers tell those who respond that, for a purported one-time fee ranging from $300 to $700, they can “claim and verify” their Google listing and have unique “keywords” so their business will appear prominently when people search for their products or services.
Consumers who pay receive a follow-up call from the defendants’ telemarketers, pitching a second program that the defendants falsely claim can guarantee top search result placements for a one-time payment of $949.99 and recurring monthly payments of $169.99 or $99.99.
According to the FTC’s complaint, in October 2017, the defendants temporarily lost the ability to accept payments by credit card due to high chargeback rates (when consumers dispute credit card transactions). As a result, they took money, usually $100, from at least 250 of their customers’ checking accounts without the customers’ advance knowledge, consent, or authorization, and with no apparent reason or justification.
The defendants, who are charged with violating the FTC Act, are Pointbreak Media, LLC, also d/b/a Point Break Media, Point Break Solutions and Kivanni Marketing; DCP Marketing, LLC, also d/b/a Point Break; Modern Spotlight LLC; Modern Spotlight Group LLC, also d/b/a Modern Spotlight; Modern Internet Marketing LLC; Modern Source Media, LLC, also d/b/a Modern Source; Perfect Image Online LLC; Dustin Pillonato; Justin Ramsey; Aaron Michael Jones, also known as Michael Aaron Jones and Mike Jones; Ricardo Diaz; Michael Pocker; and Steffan Molina.
The court has appointed a temporary receiver over the operation and has frozen the defendants’ assets during litigation. The FTC seeks to end the alleged illegal practices and obtain money for return to consumers.
The Commission vote approving the complaint was 2-0. The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida entered a temporary restraining order against the defendants on May 8, 2018.
The FTC acknowledges the assistance of Google during the investigation of this case.
NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the law has been or is being violated and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The case will be decided by the court.
In other business & finance related news....
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF $20 MILLION IN GRANTS TO HELP INJURED OR ILL AMERICANS REMAIN IN LABOR FORCE
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the availability of $20 million in grants to help Americans who are injured or ill remain in or return to the workforce. The grants are intended to identify new, replicable strategies to help individuals with a work-related disability stay on the job.
“America’s workforce is strengthened by the participation of all Americans. After an injury or illness, it is critical for workers to have the ability to return to the labor force as quickly as possible,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta. “These grants will help develop innovative strategies that enable injured or ill Americans to return to work so they can support themselves and provide for their families.”
https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/odep/odep20180524
IRS warns tax pros of new scam posing as professional associations
WASHINGTON — The IRS and its state and industry Security Summit partners today warned tax practitioners to beware of phishing emails posing as state accounting and professional associations.
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-warns-tax-pros-of-new-scam-posing-as-professional-associations
Two-income families, taxpayers working multiple jobs should check withholding amount
WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service urges two-income families and those who work multiple jobs to complete a “paycheck checkup” to verify they are having the right amount of tax withheld from their paychecks.
The IRS Withholding Calculator can help them navigate the complexities of multiple employer tax situations and determine the correct amount of tax for each of their employers to withhold.
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/two-income-families-taxpayers-working-multiple-jobs-should-check-withholding-amount
Federal Reserve Board issues Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households
The Federal Reserve Board's latest Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households finds that economic well-being has generally improved over the past five years. The report notes that 74 percent of adults reported they were doing at least OK financially in 2017‑‑up 10 percentage points from the first survey in 2013. Even so, notable differences remain across race, ethnicity, education groups, and locations and many individuals still struggle to repay college loans, handle small emergency expenses, and manage retirement savings.---press release dated 5/ 22/ 18
https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/other20180522a.htm
USDA BLOG: AMS Sets the Gold Standard for Cotton
Despite its relatively small size and location in Memphis, Tennessee, the Agricultural Marketing Service, Standardization & Engineering Division (S&E) within the USDA Cotton & Tobacco Program (C&T) plays a giant role in both the U.S. and international cotton marketing systems. S&E produces and distributes physical cotton classification standards for all ten of the department’s cotton classification (grading) labs.
https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2018/05/24/ams-sets-gold-standard-cotton
Treasury, IRS To Issue Proposed Rule on State and Local Tax Deductions
Washington – The U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will issue proposed regulations in the near future addressing legislation adopted or being considered by state legislatures that allow taxpayers to receive a credit against their state and local taxes for contributions to certain organizations or funds designated by the state. In addition to cutting income tax rates, expanding the child tax credit, and nearly doubling the standard deduction, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act limited the amount of state and local taxes an individual can deduct in a calendar year to $10,000.
https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm0396
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Washington’s Helen Sommers Building certified LEED platinum
Newest addition to Capitol Campus conserves electricity and water, reduces carbon emissions---from Governor's Inslee's medium page dated 5/ 21/ 18https://medium.com/wagovernor/washingtons-helen-sommers-building-certified-leed-platinum-8b9075ec2b8e
The Capitol Campus has gone double platinum.
The new Helen Sommers Building on the state Capitol Campus has gained LEED Platinum certification — the highest ranking possible — from the U.S. Green Building Council. It is the first state-owned building on the campus to gain LEED certification and the campus’ second building overall to achieve the platinum designation.
Buildings with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification are healthier, more productive places that reduce stress on the environment because they are energy and resource-efficient. Platinum is the highest of four levels of certification, and LEED certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement.
The Helen Sommers Building embodies the vision for sustainability on the campus. It was designed to be within the top 1 percent of office buildings nationwide in energy efficiency.
“This building exemplifies the types of innovation we want in Washington state — those that lead to more green jobs and less carbon pollution,” Gov. Jay Inslee said. “It is in the best interest of our state to take sustainability seriously, and at the state’s capitol, we have a special responsibility to lead by example.”
Clean energy focus
The Helen Sommers Building is constructed with solar panels, geothermal wells that draw heat from the earth, sustainable landscaping and smart systems that conserve water and energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Smart features in building systems provide the ability to reduce wasted energy through real-time data analysis, and to monitor building performance. To date, building systems are meeting performance objectives.
The building emits 71.4 percent less carbon dioxide than the average office building — equivalent to taking 291 cars off the road for a year or eliminating electricity use from 204 homes for a year.
More than 10 percent of the building’s energy is from renewable solar power. That equals reducing emissions from more than 5,000 home-barbecue propane tanks or enough energy to power over 13 average American homes for a year.
Highly efficient LED lighting systems eliminate carbon dioxide emissions equal to burning 141,988 pounds of coal annually — enough to power over 19 average American homes for a year.
Water systems will save 828,310 gallons a year — enough water to provide for a four-person household for more than six years
Green economy, accountable government
From the building’s solar panels to its brick and steel, it is clear that “made in Washington” was a project priority for the design-build team of Sellen Construction and ZGF Architects; 88 cents of every dollar was invested in Washington labor and materials. That’s $68 million supporting the Washington economy.
The project also provided opportunities for many Washington businesses to advance sustainable products, from lower-carbon concrete mixes to skylights that reduce the need for interior lighting — an example of Washingtonians using innovation, creativity and technological to support a clean energy economy.
“As a state office building, we wanted the new facility to be a reflection of Washington materials, businesses, workers and technology,” said Victoria Buker, senior project manager for Sellen Construction. “Our team’s ‘Made in Washington’ mindset was not only about advancing our clean energy economy but also about investing in the people and industries of our state.”
The Helen Sommers Building is expected to save the state more than $100 million over its lifetime, according to a 2015 life-cycle cost estimate by the Office of Financial Management. A building’s typical life span is 50 years, though many stay in use longer than that.
The new building even comes with a guarantee in the form of a performance agreement with the design-builder.
LEED certification provides independent verification of a building’s green features from the Green Building Council. The council examines a building’s design, construction, operations and maintenance to verify that buildings are resource-efficient, high performing, healthy and cost-effective.
In 2014, the 1500 Jefferson Building on the state’s East Campus, occupied under a lease-purchase agreement, also gained LEED Platinum certification. That building was constructed in 2011.
Inslee has made clean energy, environmental stewardship and sustainability a top priority during his time as governor, taking strong action toward reducing carbon pollution and growing the economy. Under his leadership, Washington has joined a multi-state alliance committed to the Paris climate agreement, made an aggressive effort to promote electric vehicles, invested in clean energy technology through the Clean Energy Fund and joined with the Pacific Coast Collaborative to grow the West Coast’s clean energy economy.
Rep. Helen Sommers served in the state Legislature for 36 years. She died in 2017.
AG FERGUSON TO CONGRESS: TIME TO HOLD OPIOID COMPANIES ACCOUNTABLE
Press release issued 5/ 21/ 18http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-congress-time-hold-opioid-companies-accountable
Washington, Ohio leading bipartisan coalition of 39 states urging Congress to pass opioid legislation
OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson and a bipartisan group of 38 other attorneys general today called on Congress to pass two bills to help reduce the flow of opioids into the black market. The bills, sponsored by Washington Sen. Maria Cantwell, increase penalties on opioid manufacturers and distributors.
“Opioid companies have a duty to ensure they take every step and act quickly to prevent their drugs from getting into the wrong hands,” Ferguson said. “Drug companies know what suspicious activity looks like, but I’ve seen them ignore their responsibility to report it. Sen. Cantwell’s bill holds them accountable, and I thank her for her leadership.”
The bipartisan coalition, led by Ferguson and Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine, sent a letter to the chairs and ranking members of the Senate Judiciary Committee and the Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee.
The letter urges the senators to pass S.2456, the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) 2.0 and S.2440, the Comprehensive Addiction Reform, Education, and Safety (CARES) Act.
The two bills increase penalties on drug companies that fail to report suspicious transactions and maintain effective controls against diversion of their drugs to the illicit market. The bills would increase the civil penalty from $10,000 to $100,000 per violation for negligence in reporting suspicious activity and double the criminal penalty to $500,000 for companies that do not keep proper reporting systems or fail to report suspicious activity.
“Diversion of prescription opioids has devastated communities in our states,” Ferguson’s letter reads. “The consequences of turning a blind eye to suspicious opioid orders cannot merely be a cost of doing business.”
Ferguson’s work on the opioid epidemic
In September 2017, Ferguson filed a lawsuit against Purdue Pharma, one of the nation’s largest opioid manufacturers. The lawsuit accuses Purdue of fueling the opioid epidemic in Washington state, embarking on a massive deceptive marketing campaign and convincing doctors and the public that their drugs are effective for treating chronic pain and have a low risk of addiction, contrary to overwhelming evidence.
In June 2017, at Governor Inslee’s request, the Attorney General’s Office hosted a summit on Washington’s opioid epidemic in partnership with the Washington State Patrol and the Washington Association of Prosecuting Attorneys.
A report developed by the organizations after the summit included a range of recommendations, three of which became the subject of Attorney General Request legislation in the recent 2018 legislative session. Proposals to limit first-time prescriptions of opioids, and to require that doctors check the state’s Prescription Monitoring Program database for evidence of misuse or dangerous prescribing patterns before prescribing opioids failed to pass the Legislature.
A successful third bill gives the Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit authority to issue search warrants and make arrests in Medicaid fraud cases, including those involving opioid misuse.
STATE NEWS RELATED HEADLINES...
Workshops announced for new rural broadband loan program
Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) offers workshops for local governments, tribes on funding for broadband projects in underserved communities
OLYMPIA, Wash. – The Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) announced five workshop dates in June for rural communities interested in funding for infrastructure to bring broadband services to underserved areas around the state. The board approved policies to implement the new Rural Broadband Program at their May 17 meeting.
http://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/community-grants/workshops-announced-for-new-rural-broadband-loan-program/
2018 Governor’s Smart Communities Award Winners Announced
OLYMPIA – Governor Jay Inslee today announced winners of the 2018 Smart Communities Awards. Now in its 13th year, the program recognizes achievements by local leaders who promote smart growth planning and projects that contribute to thriving communities, a prosperous economy, and sustainable infrastructure in Washington State. This year’s honorees include the first tribal project nominated for an award.--press release issued 5/ 25/ 18
http://www.commerce.wa.gov/news-releases/community-programs-facilities/2018-governors-smart-communities-award-winners-announced/
Ecology secures $5 million in federal grants to help partners conserve five coastal wetlands
press released on 5/ 22/ 18
https://ecologywa.blogspot.com/2018/05/ecology-secures-5-million-in-federal.html
May is American Wetlands Month. To highlight the vital ecological, economic, and social health benefits wetlands provide Washington state, we are pleased to announce Ecology has been awarded $5 million in federal National Coastal Wetlands Conservation grants to help protect, restore and preserve five crucial coastal wetlands in Clallam, Island, Kitsap, and Skagit counties.
St. Joseph’s hospital settles penalty for hazardous waste violations
BELLINGHAM – PeaceHealth St. Joseph’s Medical Center has agreed to pay $16,000 to settle several violations of Washington’s dangerous waste laws. The violations result from inspections conducted in 2017.
https://ecology.wa.gov/About-us/Get-to-know-us/News/2018/May-22-St-Joseph%E2%80%99s-hospital-settles-penalty-for-ha
WDFW: Spring chinook fishery will reopen above and below Bonneville Dam
OLYMPIA – Starting Friday (May 25), the popular sport fishery for adult spring chinook salmon will reopen on the Columbia River from the Rocky Point/Tongue Point line upriver to the Washington/Oregon border near Umatilla.--press release issued 5/ 23/ 18
https://wdfw.wa.gov/news/may2318a/
Washington Supreme Court sides with state’s Department of Natural Resources
Press release issued 5/ 24/ 18
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/washington-supreme-court-sides-state%E2%80%99s-department-natural-resources
oday, in its Pope Resources decision, the Washington State Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and held that the polluting company alone, not the state, is liable for millions of dollars of environmental cleanup costs under the state’s Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA).
Businesses beware: misleading letter calls for annual registration renewals
May 24, 2018 · News Release
OLYMPIA — Secretary of State Kim Wyman is cautioning Washington business owners to be aware of a misleading and potentially fraudulent mailing that purports to be an official bill related to business registration requirements.
https://www.sos.wa.gov/office/news-releases.aspx#/news/1289
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House Passes Defense Authorization with Kilmer-backed Policies
From a press release from Congressman Kilmer's webpage, dated 5/ 24/ 18http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-passes-defense-authorization-with-kilmer-backed-policies
Bill raises troop pay, overturns DOD’s unfair per diem policy, extends authorization of overtime for shipyard workers in Japan, focuses on the importance of our nation’s shipyards, and takes the first step for cyber national guard
WASHINGTON, DC-- Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (NDAA). The legislation includes measures Kilmer championed that extend the authorization for overtime payments to shipyard workers in Japan through 2019 and eliminate a policy enacted by the Department of Defense (DOD) that passed the burden of covering travel costs while on assignment to individual employees rather than the department or service.
“If you serve the country, Congress should invest in you and have your back. In an unpredictable world, a strong, well-maintained Navy, and a well-trained, well-equipped, and fairly-paid fighting force helps keep the peace,” Kilmer said. “This bill makes progress in that regard. Over the long haul, though, Congress needs to fix the budget process to provide more stability and predictability.”
The NDAA sets funding levels, expenditures, and other authorizations for the DOD. The final bill that passed the House raises troop pay by 2.6% — the largest increase in nine years. The bill also includes almost $90 million in funding for the construction of the Pier and Maintenance Facility at Naval Base Kitsap. This investment will help the Navy most effectively continue its national security mission, and ensure this important military construction project meets environmental and safety standards.
Shipyard Worker Overtime
Kilmer has led the push for the authorization of overtime payments for shipyard workers who conduct maintenance on the U.S. aircraft carrier stationed in Japan. The bill includes a measure to extend overtime payments to civilian shipyard workers through September 30, 2021.
This is the latest in a series of Kilmer-led efforts to secure overtime since a long-term provision guaranteeing it expired in September 2014.
“The shipyard workers we send overseas work long hours away from their families to make sure the Navy completes its vital mission in the Pacific. They’re not on vacation, and they ought to be paid for their overtime.” Kilmer said.
Per Diem Fix
In 2014, the DOD cut per diem rates for federal employees and members of the military who travel longer than 30 days for work. The cuts meant workers on extended travel would be paid between 25 percent and 45 percent less than under the old policy, depending on how long they’re working away from home.
Kilmer introduced a bipartisan bill in March 2015 to reverse those cuts. Since that time, he’s successfully worked with a bipartisan group of lawmakers to make sure this provision has been included in the House NDAA for each Fiscal Year, including 2019. He is continuing to fight for a permanent restoration of the DOD’s long-term per diem rates.
“Congress needs to get spending under control. But nickel-and-diming federal workers and asking them to foot the bill when they’re on work travel isn’t how to do it,” Kilmer said.
Cyber Report
The NDAA includes a study on the viability of establishing Cyber Civil Support Teams within the National Guard to help every state protect our nation’s voting machines and other critical state- and locally-controlled infrastructure like the power grid.
The study text comes from Kilmer’s Major General Tim Lowenberg National Guard Cyber Defenders Act.
“Congress’ inclusion of this study shows leaders in Washington, DC know our nation’s voting machines and other critical infrastructure are vulnerable to cyberattack,” Kilmer said. “But, states need help now. We need more than just a study. We need to move forward. I urge the Senate to pass the full bill so states can start standing up cyber guard teams.”
HANFORD: Rejecting Short-sighted White House Proposal to Cut Back on Cleanup, Senator Murray Successfully Secures $315 Million Increase for Nuclear Waste Cleanup in Newly-released Senate Bill
Press release from Sen. Murray, dated 5/ 24/ 18https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=026C6356-A1EE-447C-919F-F53012413207
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, announced the Senate not only rejected a short-sighted budget proposal from the White House but in fact added $315 million in federal funding critical to nuclear waste cleanup at Hanford. The Fiscal Year 2019 Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill, which cleared a Senate committee today, includes $838 million for Richland Operations, which has more work to do on several high-risk cleanup projects along the Columbia River and on the Central Plateau of Hanford, and $1.57 billion for the Office of River Protection, which has a clear and demonstrated need for additional investments to support removing and treating tank waste. After passing the Senate Committee on Appropriations today, the legislation now moves to the full Senate.
“I’m so glad that once again, the Senate has rejected the White House’s attempt to shirk its responsibility to the Tri-Cities community,” Senator Murray said. “Cleaning up Hanford is a complex, long-term project that requires significant resources, and I will never stop fighting to make sure the federal government remembers just how much this community sacrificed in order to help our country win World War II and the Cold War.”
In addition to Hanford funding, Senator Murray also fought to ensure the bill included a number of things important to Washington state:
Increased investments in scientific and energy research and development programs important to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), significantly restoring Trump Administration funding cuts which could negatively affect science and engineering jobs at PNNL;
Prevented the President’s proposal to privatize portions of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA);
Urged the Department of Energy not to change the long-standing practice of having BPA report to the Deputy Secretary; and
Increased investments for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to support our ports and waterways, which are essential to the economic security and health of communities across Washington state.
Highlights of the FY 2019 Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill:
$2.411 billion for nuclear waste cleanup at Hanford
$838.171 million for Richland Operations, $180 million more than the President’s budget proposal
$1.573 billion for Office of River Protection, $135 million more than President’s budget proposal
$20 million for the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, supports operation, maintenance, and cleanup activities at the Hanford and Los Alamos, New Mexico sites
$6.65 billion for Department of Energy’s Office of Science, supports 10 national laboratories, including PNNL ($1.259 billion more than the President’s budget proposal)
$715 million for Biological and Environmental Research, supports the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory and Atmospheric Radiation Measurement User Facility at PNNL. These scientific user facilities provide access to unique, state of the art equipment for more than 1,800 users annually.
$35 million for the Energy Sciences Capability, supports a construction project at PNNL to provide modern lab space and equipment
$260 million for Department of Energy’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response, supports research and development at PNNL, Washington State University (WSU), utilities, and industry in the Northwest
$2.322 billion for Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, ($1.626 billion more than the President’s budget proposal); supports research and development efforts at PNNL, WSU, University of Washington, and more
$6.927 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ($2.142 billion more than the President’s budget proposal)
$50 million to support small ports, including the Ports of Bellingham, Ilwaco, Chinook, Ridgefield, Skagit, Willapa Harbor, and more
$50 million to support donor and energy transfer ports, including the Northwest Seaport Alliance
$6 million to help combat invasive species in the Columbia River Basin through watercraft inspection stations, rapid response, and monitoring
LOCAL & REGIONAL MEETING AGENDAS AND HIGHLIGHTS:
Clallam County meetings
Clallam Commission work session for 5/ 29/ 18
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1108
Agenda highlight: Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office landowner acknowledgement forms for Kugel Creek and Hoko Ozette culvert replacement projects
County Commission meeting regular session for 5/ 29/ 18, following the work session:
http://clallam.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=377
Agenda highlights:
1) Consideration of resolution adopting the following Debatable Emergencies:
Assessor - Request for full time equivalent Customer Service I or II depending on experience, approved by BOCC on April 23, 2018/$41,200
Human Resources - Unemployment Compensation - Required unemployment compensation payouts through personnel actions have exceeded budgeted limits for current fiscal year/$60,000
Human Resources - Required per provisions of RCW 41.26, the Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters Retirement System Act LEOFF I Disability Payments have exceeded budgeted limits for the current fiscal year/$250,000
NonDepartmental - Opportunity Fund
* William Shore Memorial Pool District funding for their facility expansion project/$50,000
* The final invoice from the EDC for their 2017 contract in the amount of $25,000 was not received until January, 2018/$25,000
Sheriff - Jail Medical - As per contract #816-14-01 with Correctional Healthcare Companies for inmate medical services, the annual increase in the base contract amount is adjusted by a 1.7% increase for renewal year 2018. This budget action provides the appropriate amount of funding to pay the contracted costs from the Sheriff’s Jail Medical budget/$4,894
Public Works - Clallam Bay/Sekiu Sewer Capital - (1 of 2) In order to reduce overtime and complete necessary summer maintenance tasks, as well as allow for vacation and sick leave, the operators require maintenance assistance at the Wastewater Treatment Plants. This transfer will allow Public works to hire temporary summer help to fill this need/$20,000
Public Works - Clallam Bay/Sekiu Sewer - (2 of 2) In order to reduce overtime and complete necessary summer maintenance tasks, as well as allow for vacation and sick leave, the operators require maintenance assistance at the Wastewater Treatment Plants. This transfer will allow Public works to hire temporary summer help to fill this need/$20,000
http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=377&meta_id=23892
2) Resolution adopting the following Supplemental Appropriations:
Health and Human Services – Operations
* Carrying unspent Washington State Safety Commission Car Seat Inspection Grant funds from the 2017 budget to the 2018 budget/$10,472
* Carrying unspent tobacco prevention contract funds from the 2017 budget to the 2018 budget/$7,200
* Carrying unspent marijuana prevention contract funds from the 2017 budget to the 2018 budget/$9,600
Health and Human Services – Environmental Health – Consolidated Contract Amendment #1 with the Washington State Department of Health adds revenue for swimming beach bacteria level monitoring and for capacity building for lead poisoning prevention in children/$6,200
Sheriff – Operation Stonegarden Grant – Receipt of funding from FY2017 Operation Stonegarden Program Grant award #E18-175 to allow for spending in FY2018/$300,000
Sheriff – OPNET Drug Fund – Receipt of funding from Multi-Jurisdictional Drug-Gang Task Forces contract #F16-31440-031 to allow for spending in FY2018/$51,452
http://clallam.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=377&meta_id=23890
3) Grant Agreement with Washington State Department of Ecology for their Local Solid Waste Financial Assistance program to support both a residential and business recycling/waste prevention program
4) Contract with Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe for the Department of Ecology grant for a quality assurance project plan and the Olympia oyster restoration efforts
CITY OF SEQUIM COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA for 5/ 29/ 18
http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1885
Agenda highlight: Appoint Mary Bell and Laura Dubois to the Committee to Create a “For” Statement for the Transportation Benefit District Tax Renewal Ballot Proposition.
CITY OF FORKS COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT
For 5/ 29/ 18
http://forkswashington.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/CCAgenda_5-29-2018.pdf
Sidewalk and road improvement bid results
JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT FOR 5/ 29/ 18
https://media.avcaptureall.com/session.html?sessionid=4b500b1b-214a-4f7a-bec7-3069890f8846&prefilter=845,5958
AGREEMENT: Environmental Documentation and Permitting for the Upper Hoh Road,M.P.8.0Emergency Repair; In the Amount of $29,848; Jefferson County Public Works; Widener & Associates
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🕂He's in your corner
WEEKLY BIBLE VERSE:
For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.---John 3:17 NKJV
Weekly Bible Study
The Foundation of the Church: What Name Should Jesus' Church Wear?
Does it matter what name the church wears? Some people seek to justify all the different denominational names by saying, "There is nothing in a name. A rose by any other name would smell as sweet!"
Some names may not matter much, but is this always true? Suppose Mrs. John Doe began telling everyone she was Mrs. Tom Smith. What do you suppose Mr. Doe and Mr. Smith would think about that?---Gospel Way
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👲Riddle Genie
Question: A boat has a ladder that has 6 rungs that are 12 inches apart. The tide moves up 12 inches every 15 minutes, it is now one hour until high tide. The very edge of the ladder is in the water. How many rungs will be under water all the way at the highest point of high tide?
Answer: The boat moves and up and down with the tide.
New question: Scientists have proven that one side of a cat has more hair. Which side is it?
Answer next week!
